Longline fishing for tuna and swordfish has been banned during daylight hours after 51 albatross were killed by just one boat using the method late last year. The endangered species dives for fish only during the day.
As a result of the incident, other measures are also being introduced, including a requirement that boats inform authorities five days before they set out, so that an inspector can accompany them.
Fisheries Minister Jim Anderton says he appreciates the impact this will have on the multi-million-dollar industry, but it is clear that self-regulation is not working.
He says the government was compelled to take action because of the high number of albatross deaths caused by the fishing method.
Permanent regulations are to be introduced following further consultation with the industry.
Spokesman Kevin Hackwell says the government now needs to start looking at long-term solutions to protect the albatross species from long line fishers.
The fishing industry is asking for an easing of the restrictions imposed.
The chief executive of the Seafood Industry Council, Owen Symmans, says fishing companies are willing to comply, but will find it hard to give notice five days before they set out. He says fishing trips depend on the weather, and it is not always possible to keep to a schedule.