Stewart Islanders fed up with shark dive operators are calling for them to be barred from continuing the practice.

Locals say Great White Sharks are being injured by rubbing against the metal cages, and are also being taught through exposure, that humans taste like the tuna they use to lure them to the area.

Charlotte Bates, a concerned resident of the island, says they shouldn't be allowed in the area.

"The operators are clearly disobeying the rules. We've had a few residents already say that they've witnessed some baiting of Great Whites as per usual as they have done for the past seven years."