A Coastal Ward Community Board member is urging Christchurch City Council to enforce no fishing rules on New Brighton Pier, citing ongoing mess and rule violations.
Jo Zervos told chrislynchmedia.com some fishermen have been ignoring the designated No Fishing Zone and leaving the area in poor condition.
“In May last year, there was a meeting with representatives from the Pier Promotion Trust, Pier & Foreshore, the Mayor, local elected members, and staff regarding some of these issues, along with the state of the pier,” Zervos said.
Photo: Jo Zervos
“We discussed broken infrastructure, name plaques, and the mess left, as well as options and technicalities regarding fishing. From this meeting, small improvements have been made, and hopefully, we will see a tidy-up of the paintwork soon,” she said.
Zervos highlighted efforts to improve the pier’s condition, including the installation of new signage at the end of the pier to keep the No Fishing Zone clear and welcoming for tourists, visitors, and families.
“New signage has been installed at the end of the pier for a while now in an attempt to keep the No Fishing Zone clean and free of fishing lines so that tourists, visitors, and families can enjoy a trip to the end of the pier and take a few photos.
However, there is still a problem with some ignoring the signs,” she said.
Photo: Jo Zervos
“It is really disappointing to see the area continuing to be left in a disgusting mess. If we want New Brighton to flourish and improve, it helps if we can leave a good impression on all.”
Zervos also pointed out the availability of gutting stations along the pier and signs encouraging cleanliness, which some individuals continue to disregard.
“There are gutting stations along the pier that people should be using, and signs asking for cleanliness when using them. If these continue to be ignored, we may have to look into further deterrents,” Zervos said.
She has submitted a request to the council to consider additional signage to deter fishermen from gutting and cutting bait in the No Fishing Zone.
Jo Zervos Community Board member for the Coastal Ward
“I have also asked for further information about the bylaws relating to fishing off the pier; maybe these could be changed,” Zervos said.
Zervos highlighted the need for better enforcement and changes to ensure the pier remains clean and welcoming for visitors.
