Aquaculture strategy

In 2012 the Government adopted the Aquaculture Strategy and Five-year Action Plan. The strategy and action plan establishes a whole-of-government pathway to enable the aquaculture sector to grow.

This strategy and action plan aligns with both the aquaculture industry’s strategy and the Ministry for Primary Industries’ 2030 Strategy, setting out how the government can support the growth ambitions established by the sector. It also complements existing government environmental and economic initiatives and upholds the Crown’s obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi.

Through the strategy and action plan the government will support industry in achieving its goals while acting in the public interest to ensure an appropriate balance of economic, social, cultural and ecological values.

Through the strategy and action plan the government will:

• implement the new aquaculture law and work with councils and the public to plan for sensible and sustainable future aquaculture growth in accordance with New Zealand’s laws and regulations;
• ensure the laws and frameworks governing the establishment and operation of marine and land-based aquaculture are effective and responsive, and enable industry investment;
• deliver on the Crown’s aquaculture settlement obligations to Māori and identify opportunities for improving Māori wellbeing though aquaculture development;
• build our knowledge of environmental effects and ensure a healthy aquatic environment;
• maintain and build our world-leading animal health and welfare, food safety, and biosecurity standards;
• encourage investment and adoption of innovation; and
• facilitate continued discussion between industry, government, Māori and the public as to how aquaculture should grow and be managed in New Zealand.

 View the Aquaculture Strategy and Five-year Action Plan. (PDF 295KB)