Funky Fish Rules 2026

• This is primarily a length-based competition, with both weigh-in and Catch & Release categories
• Catch & Release is encouraged and unlimited
• Most entries are measured by length, not weight
• Weigh-in limits apply – only Snapper 30 – 55cm may be presented (larger Snapper must be Catch & Release)
• A competition code is required for all Catch & Release entries
• Late fish will not be accepted

HOW THE COMPETITION WORKS

The Funky Fishing & Diving Competition is a family friendly fundraising event with a strong focus on sustainability.

The competition is primarily length based, with most entries measured by length rather than weight. Catch & Release entries are encouraged, with no limit on the number of entries per ticket holder.

Only specific dive categories (Kina and Packhorse crayfish) are weighed.

FISHING/DIVING AREA

Fishing is permitted within Whangārei Harbour and coastal waters between Kauri Mountain, the Hen & Chickens, and Bream Tail.

FISHING/DIVING PERIOD

Starts: Saturday 21 March 2026, 2:00pm

Ends: Sunday 22 March 2026 at close of weigh-in (2:30pm)

WEIGH-IN DETAILS

Location: Taurikura Beach

Time: Sunday 22 March, 11:00am – 2:30pm

• You must be in the queue before 2:30 pm
• Late fish will not be accepted
• Fish are measured by length unless stated otherwise
• Only Kina and Packhorse crayfish are weighed

CATCH & RELEASE – HOW TO ENTER

Catch & Release entries must be submitted by 2:30 pm

• Unlimited Catch & Release entries per ticket holder
• Entries without the competition code will not be accepted
• The Weighmaster has final discretion on all entries

To submit a Catch & Release entry:

1. Photograph the fish against a legal measuring device
2. Include your competition ticket showing: angler name, age, ticket number, valid competition code
3. Safely release the fish
4. Send measurement AND release photos via our online entry form (to be linked here, on our Facebook page, and our homepage closer to the event date).

COMPETITION CODE (REQUIRED)

2026 Competition Code: TBC

The code will be published at 1:00pm Saturday 21 March via:

• Funky Fishing website
• Funky Fishing Facebook Page
• Funky Fishing Facebook Event Page

GENERAL RULES

• All participants must hold a valid competition ticket
• All fish and crayfish must meet legal size and catch limits
• Snapper presented for measurement at weigh-in must be 30 – 55cm
• Snapper over 55cm must be entered as Catch & Release
• A maximum of one Kahawai per person may be presented (fish must be bled prior to presentation)
• A maximum of three fish per species (Snapper, Kingfish, Trevally, John Dory) may be presented, except Kahawai
• There is no limit to Catch & Release entries
• Except for dive categories, fish must be caught using rod and reel only:
• Max two hooks per line
• No longlines, kites, kontikis, spearguns, or nets
• Fish must be kept chilled and in fresh condition
• The Weighmaster may inspect fish and has final discretion
• Fish should be gutted prior to presentation where practical
• Weigh-in entries must be presented in person with a valid ticket
• Each fish may only be entered into one category
• Only one prize per fish and one spot prize per ticket
• In the event of a tie, the first valid entry received wins
• Winners must be present at prize giving to claim prizes
• Fish presented at weigh-in become the property of the Funky Fishing Competition

FISHING CATEGORIES

Important: Limits apply to the number of fish that may be presented at weigh-in. These limits do not apply to Catch & Release entries.

DIVING CATEGORIES

FUNKIEST FISH 

Funkiest Fish is a fun, creative category only and does not affect fishing or diving results.

Catch & Release – Funkiest Fish

• Take a photo of the most interesting or unusual catch of the day and submit via our Funky Fishing online entry form.
• Must be safely returned to the sea

Kids Creative – Funkiest Fish

• Create your own “funky fish” (not a live animal)
• Can use beach items, art materials, or recycled items – imagination is encouraged!
• No animals may be harmed

How to enter:

1. Photograph your entry with your named competition ticket
2. Submit via Funky Fishing Facebook Messenger.
3. Deadline: 2:00 pm Saturday 21 March 2026

Winners announced at prize giving.

CANCELLATION

• The committee may cancel the competition if conditions are unsafe
• No refunds will be given
• Any relocation will be advised via signage at Taurikura Bay and Facebook

LIABILITY

No liability is accepted by the Funky Fishing Committee or Whangarei Heads School for damage or injury to any person or property.