Venue: Mt. Maunganui Cosmopolitan Club, Mt Maunganui

Date: Sunday 28 th September 2003

Chair: Allan Robinson

Duration: 1.5 hours

Attendance: 24 people

Following the club's AGM option4 representative, Trish Rea was given the opportunity to speak to the club. The majority of those present had heard of option4 and what we represented.

Overview

A brief history of option4 and how the working group is currently operating was explained to club members. The importance of those online being connected and receiving the option4 updates was emphasised in order to keep up to date with developments regarding our rights.

There was a lot of interest in what the Soundings document represented and what proportional share meant to fishers. There was keen interest in the option4 Principle # 3, the Planning Right. As a fishing club they are very conscious of the size and numbers of fish they release or take home to feed their families.

Principle # 2 – Area Right, has a lot of significance for those in this area. Many of those present were aware of the prolonged effort to have commercial drag netting banned from Tauranga Harbour .

The concept of the CPUE project was discussed with the club and how they could contribute to its success. There was enthusiasm from club members to participate in this scheme as they could see the value in having a time series of information for future catch records.

Summary

It was a positive meeting with the offer for option4 to attend their information evenings to spread the message and advise of progress in the rights debate. The club donated $150 to the option4 Fighting Fund.