Symposium FAQs 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

New Zealand Fisheries Symposium 2016

Q: What is the New Zealand Fisheries Symposium?

A: The New Zealand Fisheries Symposium is a private gathering of scientists, researchers, iwi, recreational interests and other fishing industry stakeholders. It takes place on April 8th to 10th 2016 in Snells Beach, Mahurangi, an hour north of Auckland. Attendees arrive in the morning of April 8, and will leave on April 10th.

Q: Who is organising the New Zealand Fisheries Symposium?

A: The New Zealand Fisheries Symposium is hosted by LegaSea, a non-profit devoted to restoring abundance to New Zealand’s fisheries.

Q: Why should I attend the New Zealand Fisheries Symposium?

A: Two words. Networking and influence. The invitees to the Symposium are experts in various aspects of fisheries management, and their own areas of the fishing sector. There has never been a gathering like this before, where you can dine with the leading fisheries economist and ask questions of an international co-management advocate. By attending, you get to join these fine minds and help create New Zealand’s 21st century fisheries policy.

Q: Who will be at the New Zealand Fisheries Symposium?

A: Confirmed attendees include Daniel Pauly of the University of British Columbia, an expert on shifting baselines, abundance and marine ecosystems. Evelyn Pinkerton of Simon Fraser University on co-management and First Nations policy. John Holdsworth of BlueWater Marine Research, on recreational catch recording and reporting. And more to be confirmed.

Q: What will it cost to attend the New Zealand Fisheries Symposium?

A: Attendance is free to invited guests.

Q: What’s included?

A: All food and beverages for the weekend are provided. Attendees may choose to stay onsite in shared dormitory accommodation, or camp onsite for free. Attendees who prefer more comfortable or private accommodation are welcome to explore the many accommodation options on offer in the Snells Beach, wider Mahurangi area.

Q: What should I bring?

A: Your expertise, ideas and questions. Dress code is casual and comfortable. Weather in April can be changeable, have clothing to suit warm and cold weather.

Q: What will happen during the Symposium?

A: There will be scheduled talks during the day, with some open sessions for discussion and planning groups suggested by attendees. Invitees are selected based on their expertise and work in the area of fisheries management.

Q: Can I come for only one day?

A: The Symposium has phases that dig into the research, identify possible directions and formulate policy. To get the most from the event, plan to stay the whole time. Dropping in and out is strongly discouraged.

Q: Do I have to stay in Snells Beach or can I commute?

A: You will get the most from the event by discussing the day’s ideas and activities in the evenings, something you cannot do if you are commuting to Auckland. Staying locally will give you the time to connect with everyone at the Symposium.