Ministry consulting on future management of New Zealand’s fisheries

10 December 2004

The Ministry of Fisheries today released two major consultation documents, its draft Statement of Intent 2005-08 and a discussion document on Stock Strategies, which signal how the Ministry proposes to sustainably manage New Zealand Fisheries in the future.

The draft Statement of Intent describes the strategic direction being taken by the Ministry in the management of New Zealand's fisheries resources. It clearly defines the respective roles and responsibilities of the government, iwi and other stakeholders in contributing to managing fisheries. It also describes the Ministry's proposed services, and their estimated costs for 2005/06.

Stock strategies are the way the Ministry proposes to implement the Statement of Intent for specific fisheries.

Acting Chief Executive, Stan Crothers, said the Ministry wants to move forward with a plan that ensure fisheries resources are sustainable. He also said it was important to consider all risks and have clear transparent objectives.

"Stock Strategies represent the next step in the evolution of fisheries management in New Zealand. By developing stock strategies we will improve the effectiveness of decisions making, by using the best available information."

The Ministry proposes to develop stock strategies across all fisheries over the next five years, with the first five being developed by August 2005.

The Ministry of Fisheries is looking for comment on the overall approach being taken to stock strategies and welcomes submissions. The Ministry's Stock Strategies Consultation Document, and draft Statement of Intent 2005/08 are available on request from the Ministry and on its website www.fish.govt.nz).

Submissions on both documents are required by February 21, 2005.

Ends

For further information please contact:

(Draft Statement of Intent) Peter Murray tel. 021 462 270

(Stock Strategies Consultation) Stefan Leslie 04 470 2618