Southland

Minister Shane Jones announced new catch limits for several species across New Zealand, beginning October 1, as part of a Fisheries New Zealand biannual sustainability review.

An environmental group concerned about wetland loss in Southland says the regional council should have done more to prevent damage.

The new chair of a troubled Southland board made statements about council finances, Māori land policy and “premature climate change modelling” prior to her appointment.

Six new marine reserves, from Oamaru to The Catlains increase mainland reserves by 67 per cent and provide protection to some of the most endangered native species.