A shared vision

Sustainability

Fisheries are one of this country's most important natural resources and the work of the Ministry of Fisheries reflects our varied interests at a local, regional, national and global level. From scientific research, to policy development; from Fishery Officers helping fishers to comply with local regulations, to mitigating accidental bycatch of seabirds or marine mammals.

We aim to protect and maintain stock levels so that people can continue to fish. Fundamental to this is working together to ensure our actions and the effect they have on the species we harvest, and the environment on which they depend, are sustainable - a mission that is best expressed in our Māori name - Te Tautiaki i nga tini a Tangaroa. In translation it reads Guardians of the Multitudes of Tangaroa. The role of a guardian is to watch over and safeguard the interests of another.

Our fisheries resources and the aquatic environment on which they depend are an intrinsic part of the cultural heritage of all New Zealanders. Most New Zealanders live a short distance from the coast. Tens of thousands of New Zealanders earn their living from the fishing industry, which brings in more than $1 billion in foreign exchange each year. There are an estimated one million recreational or non-commercial fishing trips made each year. Fishing and gathering feeds many families and the sea provides important kaimoana for cultural events such as hui and tangi.

It is important that we work together towards a future where all fishing activities are sustainable and everyone in New Zealand is able to get the best value from this wonderful resource.