Southland has a long history within the fishing industry. It is world renowned for the quality and delicacy of the Bluff Oyster, and has many other fresh products to offer. The New Zealand Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is the fourth largest in the world and covers a vast 4.4 million km^2, this is 15 times New Zealand’s land mass. Deep, cool waters mean there is a wide variety of species available, and laws in New Zealand ensure that fishing and aquaculture activities are conducted sustainably, for economic and environmental benefit. There are approximately 8,000 diverse species of aquatic life in New Zealand waters, but currently only about 130 are commercially significant. New Zealand vessels also fish in the high seas that are not covered by any country’s Exclusive Economic Zone.

 

New Zealand’s fisheries are subsidy-free and consequently well managed and profitable. Seafood exports account for 90% of New Zealand seafood industry revenue and usually ranks as fourth or fifth largest export earner. Blue Cod and Crayfish are Southland’s most common commercial fishing species. Main fishing methods are: Crayfish and Cod potting, dredging, trawling and handlines. More than 90% of all New Zealand fish landed, is exported.

The Southland fishing industry’s strength lies partly in the fact that it offers a diverse range of products. Southland produces rock lobsters, deep sea and inshore fish species, and a range of shellfish including the internationally recognised brand of Bluff Oysters. Blue Cod grows larger in Southland than anywhere else in New Zealand and it is one of the main commercial catches. Southland also has the benefit of established markets both nationally and internationally, and demand currently outstrips supply, creating a positive pricing situation. The cool, clean and unpolluted waters around the lower South Island suit fish harvesting and aquaculture. There are several recreational fishing charter boat operators running out of Bluff and Stewart Island that take clients out to fish for Blue Cod and other species. Charter businesses may have to register with the Ministry of Fisheries, and report on activity and passengers catch to help ensure the sustainability of the industry.

 

One of the largest contributing factors to improved returns for the seafood industry was the improvement of market access, and the ability to deliver fresh and live seafood to overseas markets. Particularly stringent food safety requirements ensure that Southland’s seafood industry maintains or surpasses the international recognition for quality it currently enjoys.

 

For more information please see www.fish.govt.nz.