Fisheries Management in New Zealand

Introduction

Fisheries management in New Zealand is complex. The Quota Management System (QMS) is used to manage the commercial use of fish stocks, while non-commercial fishing interests, both Māori customary and recreational fishing interests, sit outside of the QMS.

The Minister for Oceans and Fisheries has a statutory obligation to provide for non-commercial fishing interests before he allocates any fish for commercial use. Non-commercial interests include the environmental, social and cultural wellbeing of all New Zealanders.

The New Zealand Sport Fishing Council (NZSFC) recognises the complexity of the management structure and devotes much resources to participating in and understanding the various processes undertaken by the Minister and his Ministry, Fisheries New Zealand.

Below are links to processes that the Council has been involved with, contributed to or monitored on behalf of our affiliated clubs, their members and the wider public’s interests in the marine environment.

Process and reference documents

NZSFC Fisheries management annual reports

Species

Māori customary interests

Fisheries policy and reform processes

Fisheries plans

Legislation and reviews

Regulatory reviews