Issue date
A brand new fishing tournament is being launched at Westhaven Marina in Auckland next month with the aim of encouraging more newcomers and kids into the sport.
Fishing is New Zealand’s most popular participation sport - over a million people take part every year, many of those pass through the Westhaven Marina boat ramp or head out on boats from the Z Pier charterbase, but many people don’t take part, either because they don’t know how to, or because they don’t realise how easy it is to get access to Auckland’s fishing grounds.
In a quest to open up the sport to more newcomers and children, Council organisation Waterfront Auckland, is launching the Z Pier Auckland Fishing Classic.
Taking place on Sunday 11th May the competition allows for a full mix of participants with fishing options from land, kayak, private boat, and Z-Pier charter vessels.
There are over $30,000 worth of prizes, the sustainable fishing organisation Legasea will be there on the day to fillet your catch after weigh-in, and Billfish Cafe at Z-Pier will cook it up for you and serve it with a side of chips.
New Zealand Blue Light is also teaming up with Sealink, to run a special on-water event for youth.
Waterfront Auckland Marinas Manager, Tom Warren says the competition is the first of its kind in Auckland and is perfect for anyone who’s thought about entering a fishing event but thought it would be too hard to get involved.
“The beauty of the Z Pier Auckland Fishing classic is that it will be open to all ages and stages regardless whether you have a boat or not.”
“The Hauraki Gulf is such a fantastic asset for the city and all Aucklanders should have the chance to catch a fish from the local waters. This is our chance to encourage that and in the process promote sustainable fishing and the importance of nurturing our depleted fish stocks.”
To encourage responsible and sustainable fishing, all snapper entered in the competition must be longer than 35cm and shorter than 60cm in order to protect younger and older fish. There will also be prizes for different species including Kingfish, Kahawai, John Dory and Gurnard.
Fishing veteran and co-organiser for the competition, Joe Dennehy says he’s excited by the potential the event has.
“This is our chance to create a new Auckland tradition and a family friendly sporting event for all to share in. After all, every child who has ever caught a fish loves it, and it helps them to become responsible, thoughtful citizens.”
The Z Pier Auckland Fishing Classic gets underway on the morning of Sunday 11 May with prize giving set for late afternoon. The event will help to support the sustainable fishing organisation, Legasea.
Entry is $60 for adults and $10 for kids. Sponsors are Ocean Kayak, Berkley, Bradley Smokers, Catch, Top Catch and Furuno. For full details and entry information go to www.aucklandfishingclassic.co.nz
