NZ TO HOST GLOBAL FIRST FOR FISHERIES INDUSTRY

Up to 500 scientists, fisheries managers, policy makers and environmentalists from as far afield as, Canada, the UK, Namibia and Chile are expected to converge on New Zealand next year for the world's first conference on deep sea fisheries, event organisers announced today.

Deep Sea 2003, a four day conference covering everything from resource management and harvesting issues to population biology and technology, is scheduled to take place in Queenstown from 1-4 December next year.

Organised by an international steering group and initiated by New Zealand's Ministry of Fisheries, Australia's Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (AFFA) and the Food And Agriculture Organisation (FAO) the conference will be the first of its kind to cover the entire spectrum of deep sea fisheries.

Ministry of Fisheries Chief Scientist John Annala says the conference is a major step forward for the global fishing industry.

"Much of the information required to manage global fisheries resources sensibly is yet to be obtained and we see this conference as a major step forward in working together to encourage and develop sustainable global fisheries practices."

Dr Annala says it is hoped the conferencewill become a regular event, with another nation picking up the concept in the future.

"We've received a very positive response to the Deep Sea 2003 conference concept from all over the globe and we're looking forward to delivering a great event - while showcasing the many attractions that Queenstown and New Zealand have to offer."

A programme for the conference, including keynote speakers from around the world, is due to be announced early next year when registrations open.

ENDS

For further information please contact:

Joanna Clarke
Phone 09 913 2840
Mobile 021 637 695
Email jclarke@nbpr.co.nz