Fisheries New Zealand is stepping in with new bylaws to protect nine West Coast areas, exclusive to local Maori

The bylaws at the marine reserves reduce daily catch limits, and cap spiny rock lobster tail widths at 70 millimetres.

The new rules also prohibit taking seaweed and some shellfish, and introduce vessel limits.

Inshore Fisheries South Manager Allen Frazer says the regulations will support the fisheries for future generations.

The restricted areas stretch from Okarito Lagoon on the coast near Waiho, to Barn Bay south of Haast.