New Zealand Fisheries Face Reform as Minister Prioritizes Growth and Efficiency

New Zealand’s fishing system is at a crossroads. While the seafood industry contributes approximately $2 billion in export earnings and employs over 16,500 people , concerns are mounting over the long-term health of its oceans. Now, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones is pushing for law changes to “boost productivity,” a move that has sparked controversy and drawn criticism from environmental groups.

Upcoming Legislation and Public Input

An amendment bill is expected to be introduced to Parliament before the end of March, initiating a select committee process that will allow New Zealanders to provide feedback on the management of the country’s oceans. Public submissions will be open this year, offering a crucial opportunity for citizens to voice their opinions on the future of New Zealand’s fisheries .

Minister Jones’ Vision for Fisheries

Shane Jones, who also serves as Deputy Leader of New Zealand First , has openly stated his priorities. He describes himself as a “pro growth, pro development, pro jobs, nationalist politician” and believes there is “considerable scope for making the system more efficient, boosting productivity.” He has called the proposed reforms a “once in a lifetime shot” .

Concerns Over Sustainability

Critics question whether economic growth and ocean health can coexist under the proposed reforms. Former commercial fisher Matt Watson argues, “The fact of the matter is it’s not being looked after. When you’re destroying the very food of the ocean it’s a cock up.” He emphasizes the need to protect the marine environment for future generations .

Current Stock Status

Data from the Ministry of Primary Industries indicates that approximately 75% of fish stocks meet biomass targets, defined as 40% of their original biomass level. However, a quarter of stocks require rebuilding, and 13% are considered at risk of depletion, leading to the closure of some fisheries . Critics argue that a 40% biomass target is too low, particularly for long-living species.

International Comparisons and Depleted Stocks

The debate draws parallels to Western Australia, which recently imposed permanent bans on several prized species after stocks were depleted by as much as 85 percent . In New Zealand, a recent High Court challenge led to a total ban on harvesting crayfish along the East Coast of Northland, effective April 1, 2024, due to declining populations .

Proposed Reforms and Legal Challenges

Shane Jones aims to limit legal challenges to fisheries management decisions, arguing that “vexatious, protracted litigation” hinders the system. He proposes strict time limits on challenges and narrowing the grounds for contesting decisions, focusing on impacts to specific species rather than broader ecosystem concerns. He stated he wants to ensure an ecosystem-based approach doesn’t become “an ideological weapon to wipe out commerce” .

Changes to Camera Rules and Discard Practices

The proposed reforms also include changes to onboard camera rules, potentially restricting public access to footage from commercial fishing boats. The Minister seeks to provide commercial fishing companies with greater flexibility regarding discarding fish at sea. Critics express concern that easing discard rules could lead to unsustainable practices, as such practices are illegal in the EU and Norway .

Industry and Māori Perspectives

Curly Brown, an inshore trawler with RMD Marine, supports the reforms, expressing hope for the future of the industry. However, Nicola MacDonald, chief executive of the Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust, worries about the potential impact on accountability for companies .

Looking Ahead

With the upcoming bill and select committee process, the Government states it is open to feedback. The future of New Zealand’s fisheries will be shaped through public submissions and at the ballot box in November. Matt Watson believes the necessary direction is clear: “We need a healthy, productive commercial fishery… but we need one that lasts, that lasts for everyone” .