For many of us in Mahurangi East, one of the best parts of our life here is the simple pleasure of fishing off the rocks at Mullet Point and Martin's Bay. My own family cherishes this tradition, spending weekends fishing, and lovingly preparing the catch for our meals. Unfortunately, these cherished, simple pleasures are now in peril.

Persistent discussions regarding restrictions on our rights to fish from these locations have troubled our community. Fishing isn't just a hobby for us – it is a vital component of our lifestyle, a way to provide fresh food for our families, and a tradition passed down through generations.

According to the Fisheries Department, recreational fishing contributes significantly to the local economy (Fisheries Department, 2022), and in an area like Mahurangi East, this impact can be seen and felt directly. Moreover, the local inhabitants have always been conscious of sustainable fishing methods, doing our bit to ensure our practices don't deplete the marine ecosystem.

Our plea is simple: Preserve our rights to fish off the rocks at Mullet Point and Martin's Bay. We appeal to the authorities to acknowledge the importance of this activity to our community, both from an economic and a social point of view. Please, stand with us and support our fight to keep our traditions alive. Sign this petition today.