3. Strategic direction

3.1 Contribution to government priorities

The government's priorities are economic transformation, families - young and old, and national identity. As a natural resource department, the Ministry has a role to play in the economic transformation and national identity priorities.

3.1.1 Economic Transformation

The Ministry contributes to two economic transformation sub-themes:

• improving the sustainable use and management of natural resources
• increasing the international connection of firms.

In the area of economic transformation, we will:

• Manage New Zealand fisheries to support a globally-competitive, sustainable fishing industry.
• Seek improved international market access for New Zealand seafood through reduction of trade barriers and encouraging certification of product from sustainable fisheries and aquaculture.
• Promote and support the development of sustainable aquaculture.
• Establish, and give effect to, environmental performance standards for fishing.

3.1.2 National Identity

The Ministry contributes to five national identity sub-themes:

• recreation, conservation and the environment
• reconciliation
• promoting effective international rules
• rules-based systems that support security and prosperity and promote New Zealand values
• eliminating poverty through development partnerships.

In the area of national identity, we will:

• Provide for amateur fishing values.
• Work with the Department of Conservation and communities to implement the Marine Protected Areas Policy.
• Work with iwi to deliver on our Treaty and settlement obligations in relation to fisheries and aquaculture.
• Support settlement negotiations.
• Promote responsible fishing in the Pacific and high seas.
• Build capacity in fisheries management in Pacific Island nations.
• Deliver services to promote compliance with fishing rules in the commercial, amateur and customary sectors, and to deter poaching and black market operations.