Prior to European arrival in New Zealand, fishing was a significant component of Maori subsistence. The abundant fish stocks provided a rich and readily available resource, with methods of procuring fish based on careful observations of generations of fishers. Supplemented by shellfish and birds, the fish stocks were sufficient to provide adequate food supplies, except when seasonal periods of adverse weather prevented harvesting.

Maori fished efficiently and sustainably utilizing nets (some over a mile long), traps, pots, spears, and lures, as well as hooks made of wood, bone,...