New Zealand’s popular white fish, Hoki, has been awarded Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for a sustainable fishery for a third time.
MSC manager of Australia and New Zealand, Patrick Caleo, said the Hoki fishery’s long-term commitment to sustainability has led to many improvements in management which have contributed to reducing the environmental impact of the fishery.
“The Deepwater Group, which represents the Hoki quota owners and the New Zealand Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) have worked together to actively develop and apply new methods and strategies to reduce interactions with seabirds and fur seals,” he said.
“Seeking and achieving MSC certification for a third time shows the MSC is delivering solid benefits to the fishery. Thanks to the effective management of the fishery by the MPI and fishing industry itself, this fishery has clearly demonstrated significant levels of stock recovery,” said Mr Caleo.
Hoki is New Zealand’s third highest earning fish species, earning more than $NZ180million last calendar year, making it a vital part of the country’s economy.
