Fisheries Infosite

Blue Moki South East (Coast) (MOK3)
Maori name
Moki
Scientific name
Latridopsis ciliaris

Physical characteristics

Blue Moki are blue-grey on top with light and dark vertical banding and a silvery underside. They can grow to a length of 90 cm.

Life cycle

Blue Moki have a maximum age of 33 years. Sexual maturity is reached at 40 cm in length, or 5-6 years old. Growth slows markedly after maturity. Spawning occurs in August-September.

Habitat

Blue Moki are found in southern areas of Kaikoura and East Cape. They migrate north to Mihia Peninsula for spawning in August and September. Adults are found offshore over soft bottoms associated with reefs. They feed on crustaceans, shellfish and worms.

 
Key statistics
Recreational significance Medium
Customary significance Medium
Reported commercial catch1 (tonnes)
Quota value estimate2 (NZ$m)
Exports estimate2 (NZ$m)
1 Reported commercial catch is calculated for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025
2 Quota value and exports are calculated pro-rata to reported commercial catch for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025