Salmonid Angling in Hawke’s Bay: application of the river values assessment system (RiVAS)

Abstract

This report is endorsed by the Expert Panel of anglers (below) as a first step in identifying the value of Hawke’s Bay Rivers for salmonid angling. However, the Panel acknowledges that data is absent for some rivers and severely outdated for others. Additional work is needed to be confident that the assessment reflects the current values of the wider angling community. The assessment is a best estimate only, given the limitations of existing data. The Panel also states that this exercise is about the assessment of recreational angling value only and not the value of the fishery itself i.e. it doesn’t take into account the importance of a stream for spawning or summer refuge, just angling value. The assessment is primarily intended as an engagement tool to assist the Hawke’s Bay Fish and Game Council in planning for more sustainable management of the region’s rivers. The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) makes it clear that its purpose includes enabling people and communities to provide for their social wellbeing, of which salmonid angling is a part (RMA Part 2, section 5). The assessment is not intended to be used definitively in the RMA resource consenting process. For more information on the appropriate application of this assessment please contact the Hawke’s Bay Fish and Game office.