New Zealand Seafood Industry Welcomes Government Proposal to Clarify Fisheries Management Roles

Seafood New Zealand is encouraged by the government's decision to clarify the respective roles of central and local government in fisheries and fisheries resource management.

Chief executive Lisa Futschek said the announcement made by Minister Shane Jones that day provided a welcome direction, but the industry still wants to see the specific details of the proposed changes.

"We support a clear, consistent national fisheries management framework under the Fisheries Act, and hope these changes will restore a 'clear line' between fisheries management and the responsibilities local councils hold under planning rules," Futschek said.

"New Zealand's fisheries operate across regional boundaries, so a single national system would provide greater certainty for commercial, recreational and customary fishers and other marine users," she said.

She added that this should also reduce unnecessary regulatory burden on local councils and lessen the likelihood of duplicated rules, conflicting rules and lengthy planning processes.

Futschek said Seafood New Zealand looks forward to examining the details as the legislation progresses through Parliament.

"The Fisheries Act already provides the framework for the sustainable management of New Zealand's fisheries. More clearly defining which part of government is responsible for what is a positive step for everyone who uses and values our marine environment," she said.