Fisheries New Zealand is beginning a consultation on proposed changes to catch limits for a range of fisheries for the new fishing year beginning in October.
The consultation is part of a regular cycle of catch limit reviews that take place twice a year across New Zealand’s fisheries. This time the focus is on 16 fishery groupings ranging in area from Southland to Auckland.
“Each of the proposed changes carefully considers the health of the stocks under review, based on the best available information,” said Fisheries New Zealand’s director of fisheries management, Emma Taylor. “This consultation will allow us to consider feedback from everyone who uses these fisheries so the final changes reflect the needs of the fishery and the community.”
Currently, the available information suggests that catch limits can be increased for most of the stocks under review. Two such examples are the snapper fishery in the Nelson/Tasman area and four kingfish stocks which have seen abundant growth. Not all stocks are showing such robust levels, however, and it is proposed that catches at Southland’s blue cod fishery are reduced.
“By reviewing catch limits and other management measures, we help ensure the long-term sustainability of New Zealand fisheries,” said Emma Taylor.
The consultation closes on 1 July 2020 and recommendations will be made to the Minister of Fisheries, Stuart Nash.
