Blue moki (Latridopsis ciliaris) is a species of marine ray finned fish belonging to the family Latridae, the trumpeters. It is native to the southwestern Pacific Ocean around New Zealand and occasionally off southeastern Australia at depths of 10 metres (33 ft) and greater.

Blue moki are predominately found in the southern areas of NZ, but will sometimes be found lurking in northern waters. While they have been speared from the Three Kings to the southern edge of the Snares Shelf and the Chatham Islands, they do prefer the cooler water temperatures and rocky areas.

Blue Moki is a type of Trumpeter found throughout mainland waters of New Zealand. Most commonly caught by trawl or set nets off the east coast from the Bay of Plenty to Kaikoura. Blue Moki belong to the Latrididae family (moki and trumpeter).

Mar 24, 2025 · Blue Moki is a reef species generally associated with broken ground and kelp. They are often caught over adjacent sandy or muddy areas where they suck up food with their extendable mouthparts.

Blue moki (Latridopsis ciliaris) is a species of marine ray finned fish belonging to the family Latridae, the trumpeters. It is native to the southwestern Pacific Ocean around New Zealand and occasionally off southeastern Australia at depths of 10 metres (33 ft) and greater.

Blue moki are predominately found in the southern NZ climes but can be found lurking right around the country’s east coast. They are a species of the trumpeter family, featuring the same distinctive fleshy lips on their downward-facing mouths that their tarakihi and porae relatives have.

Blue moki love shellfish and crustacean baits. Some baits can be easily caught or gathered fresh, such as crabs, mussels and tuatuas. Some can also be bought from the local supermarket.

The Blue Moki (Latridopsis ciliaris) is a fascinating fish that epitomizes the beauty and diversity of marine life. Known for its vibrant colors and unique features, this species captures the attention of both researchers and marine enthusiasts alike.

Blue moki are caught year-round off the east coast, from Bay of Plenty to Kaikoura, by trawl or set nets. Blue moki has firm flesh which holds its shape well when cooked. Blue moki feed on a variety of crabs, shellfish and worms, which they suck from the sandy or muddy seafloor. Seafood is a highly nutritious food and is a great source of protein.

Temperate; 29°S - 45°S, 144°E - 175°W. Southwest Pacific: New Zealand and southern Australia. Most adults form school offshore over mainly open bottom. Some adults do not school but remain around reefs. Juveniles occur inshore, usually around rocky reefs. Paulin, C., A. Stewart, C. Roberts and P. McMillan, 1989. New Zealand fish: a complete guide.