Species in the news: Hoki

Hoki

Hoki is one of New Zealand's biggest fish exports, and forms an important part of the catch for offshore trawlers in New Zealand waters.

Although hoki grow reasonably quickly, they do not mature and join the adult spawning population until they are four to five years old. There was a phase during the mid-late 1990s when fewer young hoki were produced. This meant a lot fewer adult fish were available over the last few years, so catch levels had to be reduced quite severely. 
 
Species Overview - Hoki

 2009 Hoki Stock Assessment Results (PDF 55KB)

Results of the Ministry of Fisheries’ scientific research programme show things are looking good for the hoki fishery. The western hoki stock (which includes the important fishery off the South Island’s west coast) is recovering well after several years where low numbers of young fish entered the fishery. The western stock is now within sustainable target levels.

The eastern hoki stock remains very strong, and the latest stock assessment shows that it has never been below the target range.

Press Releases

Hoki Fishery Recovering Well - 08/06/2009

NZ Fisheries Get Green Light - 31/07/2009

Seafood consumers can have confidence that New Zealand fisheries are well managed and sustainable - 07/08/2009