Reports of seabirds captured in fishing nets and drowned from a boat near Slipper Island in the Coromandel has “dismayed” the Department of Conservation.

DoC is seeking information from the public after a member of the public reported the incident, which allegedly happened about 12 noon on Friday, January 3.

DoC Hauraki operations manager Avi Holzapfel was dismayed by the report of harm to wildlife, saying, “it’s extremely frustrating and distressing to hear about this kind of wilful mistreatment of wildlife.”

“We’re very grateful to the person who reported this to us for their continued assistance.

“So far, we have images of the vessel alleged to be involved and have made inquiries with local marinas and databases to identify its owner.”

Holzapfel said the department was keen to speak with people on board two vessels seen in the area at the time, and any other members of the public who may have witnessed the incident.

“If anyone has more information they can provide about this incident, please contact the DoC hotline on 0800 362 468 or [email protected], quoting CLE Incident CLE-8275.

“Many seabirds are classified as absolutely protected under the Wildlife Act 1953; hunting or killing absolutely protected wildlife can result in penalties of up to two years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $100,000, or both.”

- Waikato Herald