Source: NZ Ministry for Primary Industries
Fisheries New Zealand is seeking public input into proposed changes to catch limits and management measures for the Chatham Rise orange roughy fishery, says Fisheries New Zealand director fisheries management, Emma Taylor.
The consultation, which began today, is part of the regular fisheries sustainability review, which began with consultation on changes for other fish stocks last week.
“The Chatham Rise orange roughy fishery (ORH 3B) is New Zealand’s largest orange roughy fishery, by area and catch, and is of value to commercial fishers,” says Emma Taylor.
“Catch limits for ORH 3B were reduced by 40 percent in 2023 due to sustainability concerns. Recent stock assessments indicate that further changes are needed to put the fishery back on track to meet sustainability targets, so we are seeking feedback on a variety of different options to reduce catch limits in the fishery.”
Also included in the consultation beginning today are proposals for catch limit changes for blue mackerel on the east coast of Northland and the Bay of Plenty (EMA 1).
“The latest information indicates the EMA 1 stock is at or around the target level and we are seeking views on whether there is an opportunity to make some slight increases to catch limits. We want to hear peoples’ views about the risks and benefits of the options we have proposed,” says Emma Taylor.
“Following this consultation, we will prepare advice for Fisheries Minister Shane Jones to make decisions on any changes, which would come into effect for the fishing year starting 1 October 2025.”
The consultation for changes on these two stocks is open now and will run until 28 July 2025.
The full proposals, as well as more information about the consultation and how to make a submission can be found on Fisheries New Zealand’s website:
For further information and general enquiries, call MPI on 0800 00 83 33 or email info@mpi.govt.nz
For media enquiries, contact the media team on 029 894 0328.
