Download Commercial harvest of Undaria discussion

Undaria pinnatifida (undaria), an Asian seaweed, was accidentally introduced to New Zealand in the mid 1980s. It is now found in most ports and harbours along the east coast of New Zealand as well as Taranaki, the top of the South Island, Stewart Island and Snares Islands/Tini Heke.
Some stakeholders have indicated an interest in widening the type and scope of undaria commercial activities allowed. Currently only limited commercial harvest is allowed. Potential commercial market opportunities for undaria include: human consumption (in the form of Wakame); health food; pharmaceuticals; fertiliser and fish food (e.g. paua food).