Average weight 4.7kg, ranging from 0.5 to 17kgSpecies restricted to New Zealand only but is very similar to the species, o.vulgaris, found around Japan and the Mediterranean. Colour variable depending on surroundings.
Widespread around New Zealand from shoreline to at least 200m. Relatively short-lived and fast-growing. Caught mainly as by-catch of the rock lobster fishery and, as would be expected, landings have some correlation with the rock lobster seasons. Caught all year round. Resource size untested but probably small.
