Occurs around the South Island, most common near Banks Peninsula, in 20-200 m (Ref. 9258). From Eastern Bay of Plenty to Snares shelf, possibly to Kaipara Harbour (Ref. 89422). Fished commercially during the spring-summer inshore migration (Ref. 26346). Annual catch sometimes approaches 1,000 tons with substantial quantity exported to Australia (Ref. 9072). The fishery is predominantly an incidental by-catch of other target fisheries (Ref. 9072). May be sold as fish and chips (Ref. 26346). Voucher specimen(s) held at the NMNZ (Ref. 5755). Also Ref. 6871, 27363, 58461, 75154.