Sandager's Wrasse (Coris sandeyeri)

Best Spots to Target Them

Blue cod are commonly found around the southern coasts of New Zealand, particularly in areas with rocky reefs and weedy bottoms. They inhabit waters from the rocky shore to depths of up to 100 meters.

• Rocky Reefs and Weedy Areas: These provide the ideal habitat for Sandager's wrasse.
• Sheltered Bays and Coastal Reefs: Known for their abundance of wrasse.
• Areas with Plenty of Seaweed: Sandager's wrasse often reside in these areas, making them prime spots for spearfishing.

When to Look for Them

Sandager's wrasse can be found year-round, but they are more active and easier to spot during the warmer months, from October to April. During these times, they are often found in shallower waters.

Finding Them in the Current 

Sandager's wrasse are often found near the seabed, hiding among rocks and seaweed. When diving, swim close to the bottom and look for them around rocky outcrops and weedy areas.

Size and Legal Limits

Sandager’s wrasse are slow growers, reaching maturity at around 3–4 years old and typically measuring 25–30cm. Big ones can grow up to 40cm, with males usually larger and more colourful than females—especially during breeding season.

You’ll find them weaving through rocky reef and kelp-covered ground, often darting in and out of crevices. Their bold colours and streamlined shape make them easy to spot once you know what to look for.

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: Sandager's wrasse are less likely to be spooked if you approach from the side rather than directly above.
• Use the Environment: Utilize rocks and seaweed to conceal your approach.

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

Scientific Name: Coris sandeyeri

Average Length: Up to 25cm, but can grow larger

Habitat: Rocky reefs, weedy areas, and coastal reefs

Diet: Small invertebrates and fish eggs

Fun Fact: Sandager's wrasse exhibit strong sexual dimorphism, with males displaying vibrant purple and yellow colors, while females are more subdued in color. They also have the ability to change sex from female to male as they grow larger .

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

Sandager's wrasse is prized for its delicate, white flesh. Here's a delicious recipe to try:

Sandager's Wrasse with Lemon Butter Sauce Ingredients:

• Fresh Sandager's wrasse fillets
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Method:

1. Pat the Sandager's wrasse fillets dry with a paper towel and season both sides with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the fillets to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the fish is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the fillets from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the butter and garlic. Cook for about 1 minute, or until the garlic is fragrant.
5. Add the lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.

Pour the lemon butter sauce over the cooked fillets and garnish with fresh parsley.

Hunting Sandager's wrasse 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 Sandager's wrasse in your area on the MPI website: MPI Fishing Rules.