Queenstown Hotel Fined $22,000 for Illegal Heli-Crayfish Tours

A luxury hotel in Queenstown has faced significant penalties after offering illegal “heli-crayfish experiences.” Rees Management Limited, which operates as The Rees Hotel, was fined $22,000 in July 2023 for selling crayfish caught in violation of fisheries regulations and for not maintaining required records.

Fisheries officers initiated an investigation into the hotel’s offerings after receiving complaints about the tours. Guests were charged between $4,650 and $7,750 for the experience, which included helicopter flights to remote locations in Fiordland or the West Coast. During these excursions, a diver was contracted to catch up to six crayfish, the maximum allowed under recreational fishing rules. The diver received $800 in cash for his services.

False Claims and Legal Consequences

Documents from the investigation reveal that Mark Rose, the chief executive of Rees Management Limited, made a series of false claims regarding the legality of the crayfish caught during these tours. Although Rose was fined, he was discharged without conviction.

The penalties imposed on The Rees Hotel highlight the importance of compliance with local fisheries laws, which are designed to protect marine life and ensure sustainable fishing practices. The fisheries officers emphasized their commitment to enforcing these regulations and taking action against businesses that disregard them.

The luxury accommodation has since stated that it will review its operations to ensure adherence to all relevant laws. As the tourism industry continues to grow in New Zealand, maintaining ethical standards and legal compliance is crucial for both businesses and the environment.

The incident serves as a reminder for operators in the hospitality and tourism sectors to prioritize sustainable practices and respect legal frameworks regarding natural resources.