Have your say on new catch limits

Catch limits and other management changes for nearly 30 fisheries across the country are included in proposals for the next regular fisheries sustainability review, with consultation opening today.

Fisheries New Zealand director of fisheries management, Emma Taylor said the public consultation includes proposed changes for three blue cod stocks, snapper on the west coast of the South Island, and blue mackerel on the west coast of the North Island.

“The blue cod fish stocks being reviewed are all highly-prized shared fisheries, important to recreational, customary, and commercial fishers alike,” said Ms Taylor. 

“Proposed cuts to commercial catch for 2 blue cod stocks are in response to latest abundance estimates, while the third had a commercial catch limit cut last year. Recreational daily catch limits are proposed to be reduced for all 3 fisheries, in line with the settings in place under the National Blue Cod Strategy.”

Ms Taylor said the latest assessment of blue mackerel on the west coast of the North and South Islands showed the fish stock is above the target level, so proposals include an increased catch for the fishery.

“These are just a small portion of the fish stocks included in the proposed changes. I encourage anyone with an interest in our fisheries to read the consultation material and provide feedback,” she said.

“The fisheries included in this review represent stocks that are of importance to New Zealand economically, socially, and culturally.

“We need to ensure that catch limits and other settings for our fisheries strike the right balance between getting value for all New Zealanders while ensuring they remain sustainable for future generations.”

Following consultation, the Government will prepare advice for Fisheries Minister, Shanes Jones, to make decisions on any changes, which would come into effect for the fishing year starting 1 October.

Also included in the proposed changes are deemed value rate changes for six fish stocks. The consultation is open now and will run until 23 July.

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.

Proposals for changes to catch limits for orange roughy on the Chatham Rise are also being developed and will be available for consultation in the coming weeks.

View Review of sustainability measures for fisheries – October 2025 round.