From the 2025/26 season, both adults on a Fish & Game family licence will have equal rights — a change that directly benefits women, who are most often the second adult on the licence.
That means each adult now has their own licence, can fish independently, and can vote or stand in Fish & Game elections. From 2026/27, both will also receive Fish & Game communications.
The push for change
Since 2022, Women on the Fly has raised the family licence issue repeatedly with Fish & Game.
The University of Otago’s Women Anglers in Aotearoa survey in 2022–23 also highlighted the problem. Women said they wanted the same rights as the “primary” holder on a family licence.
It was a simple request, and one that made sense.
What’s changed
Fish & Game has now listened and acted. Both adults are recognised equally. The key changes are:
- Two licences issued – both adults receive their own named licence under a family licence purchase.
- Fishing independently – either adult can fish on their own, without the other present.
- Governance rights – both adults can vote in Fish & Game elections and stand for council.
- Communications – from 2026/27, both licence holders will receive Fish & Game newsletters and updates.
- Children remain central – a family licence must still include at least one child or grandchild.
Looking ahead
While 13% of individual licence holders are women, this rises to around 30% when considering women listed as the secondary adult on a family licence. If women angled at the same rate as men, we could see up to 60,000 more enjoying our rivers and lakes.
This change is positive for women, whānau, and the future of angling in Aotearoa. Both adults now have the independence to fish on their own, equal rights in Fish & Game governance, and the flexibility to enjoy time on the water however it suits their family.
It’s a small adjustment that will make a big difference – helping more women feel welcome, valued, and involved in freshwater fishing. It also means Fish & Game councils will hear from a wider range of anglers, ensuring decisions better reflect the whole community of licence holders.
Family Licence Upgrade Welcomed
From Radio NZ – Fish and Game family fishing licences to undergo changes to remove ‘historic anomaly
From TVNZ News Family fishing licences are set for an overhaul to fix outdated rules that have seen many women unable to fish alone.
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