Blue Moki (Latridopsis ciliaris)

Best Spots to Target Them

Blue moki are commonly found around New Zealand's coastal waters, particularly in areas with rocky reefs and kelp beds. They inhabit waters from the rocky shore to depths of about 100 meters.

• Rocky Reefs and Kelp Beds: These areas provide the ideal habitat for blue moki.
• Sheltered Bays and Coastal Reefs: Known for their abundance of blue moki.
• Areas with Plenty of Crustaceans and Shellfish: Blue moki often reside in these areas, making them prime spots for spearfishing.

When to Look for Them

Blue moki can be found year-round, but they are more active and easier to spot during the cooler months, from April to September. During these times, they often come closer to shore, making them more accessible to spearfishers.

Finding Them in the Current 

Blue moki are often found near the seabed, hiding among rocks and kelp. When diving, swim close to the bottom and look for them around rocky outcrops and weedy areas.

Size and Legal Limits

Blue moki are solid, slow-moving reef fish, reaching maturity around 30–40 cm, with larger ones growing over 60 cm. Their deep blue-grey colour and high-backed profile make them easy to spot along the coast.

They stick close to the bottom around rocky reefs, kelp beds, and weedy drop-offs—usually in waters up to 100 metres deep. Often found in small groups, they feed on crustaceans and shellfish, so staying low and using cover is key for lining up the shot.

They fall under the combined daily bag limit for finfish—usually 20 per person in most regions—and there’s no specific size limit for this species.

Rules can vary by area, so always check the latest MPI regulations before heading out. Keeping to the limits helps protect local stocks for future dives.

For more detailed regulations, visit the  Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) website .

• Stay Low in the Water: Avoid startling them by staying close to the seabed and moving slowly.
• Approach from the Side: Blue moki are less likely to be spooked if you approach from the side rather than directly above.
• Use the Environment: Utilize rocks and kelp to conceal your approach.

A shorter speargun, like a 75cm or 90cm model, is ideal for hunting blue moki. These guns provide excellent maneuverability for the close-range shots you'll need near rocky areas and reefs.

Scientific Name: Latridopsis ciliaris

Average Length: Up to 60cm, but can grow larger

Habitat: Rocky reefs, kelp beds, and coastal reefs

Diet: Crustaceans, shellfish, and small invertebrates

Fun Fact: Blue moki are known for their unique feeding behavior. They use their small, comb-like teeth to scrape algae and small invertebrates off rocks and kelp, making them efficient grazers in their underwater habitats.

**Be sure to check out the MPI site to see the legal take size for your area.

Blue moki is prized for its firm, white flesh. Here's a delicious curry recipe to try:

Blue Moki Curry Ingredients:

• Fresh blue moki fillets, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, finely grated
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
• 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup fish stock or water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Cooked rice, to serve

Method:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and golden brown.
2. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the curry powder, turmeric, cumin, and coriander, and cook for another minute to release the flavors.
4. Add the coconut milk, diced tomatoes, and fish stock or water. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes.
5. Add the blue moki pieces to the pot and simmer gently for 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the curry over cooked rice and garnish with fresh cilantro.

Hunting blue moki is a rewarding experience. Remember to respect the ocean and your prey, and always dive within your limits. Check the latest rules and catch limits for blue moki in your area on the MPI website: MPI Fishing Rules.