Two men have had their nets, waders and other equipment seized after being caught illegally whitebaiting at the Waiau Mouth last night (4 Nov) - four days after the season closed.

Operation Īnaka, run jointly by Police and the Department of Conservation, is focusing on whitebaiters illegally fishing in Western Southland.

Last night was the third time Western Southland Police have run a nighttime operation.

Western Southland Area Response Manager, Senior Sergeant Pete Graham said the whitebaiting season had ended on 31 October so it was disappointing to find two men illegally fishing.

“We have seized their whitebaiting fishing equipment and will be referring the incident to the Department of Conservation to consider prosecution action."

“I encourage all whitebaiters to familiarise themselves with the rules and regulations around fishing activity, in order to avoid any confusion,” Graham said.

Police urge the community to report any illegal or suspicious activity by calling 111 if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.

You can also make a report anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.

CLICK HERE for information on whitebaiting.