List of scientific names of fish
The requirements for fish names, and the common, Maori, and Scientific names of fish for both domestic and export markets can be found in schedule 5 of the Animal Product Notice: Production, Supply and Processing [PDF, 1.9 MB]
Fish names – labelling requirements for the New Zealand market
You must show the fish's scientific name on the outer (transportation) packaging of fish and fish products for human consumption.
Your retail packaging label does not need the scientific name. However, it must follow the Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) code.
Fish names – labelling requirements for export markets
This document has a list of approved names of fish for export:
Approved fish names [PDF, 521 KB]
Find out more about exporting seafood
Changing or adding a name to the list of approved fish names
We work with the New Zealand Seafood Standards Council to approve fish names. Apply to the Ministry for Primary Industries if you want to change or add:
- a New Zealand common fish name
- an approved foreign fish name.
The procedure for selecting and approving fish names is in the Guidance document: Procedures for selecting NZ common fish names and approved foreign fish names [PDF, 265 KB]
Other labelling requirements
Fish product labels must also comply with:
- general labelling rules
- the Australia New Zealand Food Standards Code.
Labelling and composition of food and drinks
Who to contact
If you have questions about fish labelling requirements, email info@mpi.govt.nz
