Tuna fishing fleet observed: new zealand defence force and ministry of fisheries work together

Joint Media Statement

Ministry of Fisheries
Headquarters Joint Forces New Zealand

Tuna Fishing Fleet Observed: New Zealand Defence Force And Ministry Of Fisheries Work Together

7 August 2001

Personnel from the New Zealand Defence Force and Ministry of Fisheries have 'joined forces' today to carry out inspections of the tuna fishing fleet operating north of Great Barrier Island.

An Air Force Orion with a Fishery Officer aboard overflew the area yesterday to locate the tuna fleet. This information was then relayed to other Fishery Officers onboard the Navy vessel HMNZS Manawanui which arrived in the area this morning to begin the inspection.

Commodore David Ledson, the Maritime Component Commander at Headquarters Joint Forces New Zealand (HQ JFNZ) said, "This is the first joint operation of this nature for the recently established HQ JFNZ. It is an important task for the NZDF, particularly the Navy and Air Force and reflects our commitment to assisting civil agencies meet their responsibilities in New Zealand's maritime area of interest."

Greg Reid, District Compliance Manager for the Ministry of Fisheries in Whangarei, said "The tuna fishery is very valuable resource to New Zealand, and the New Zealand Defence Force are assisting Ministry of Fisheries with compliance inspections and observation of the operations of the long line tuna fleet".

Ends