Fisheries New Zealand

Fisheries New Zealand works to ensure that fisheries resources are managed to provide the greatest overall benefit to New Zealanders. Our focus is the sustainability of New Zealand’s wild fish stocks, aquaculture, and the wider aquatic environment, now and for future generations.

Rough water in the Drake Passage
Sustainable fishing

Find out how we manage fishing activity and catches – commercial, recreational, and customary.

fishing - recreational at the beach

Recreational fishing rules

Find out how many fish you can catch and how big they must be. 

 fishing boat birds 200 140

Commercial fisheries

Key information and guidance for commercial fishers, including electronic catch and position reporting.

 Customary fish hook200x14

Customary fisheries

Fishing rights for tangata whenua are guaranteed in the law. Learn more about customary fishing management.

 shark swimming in light ocean beneath a school of fish

Sustainable fisheries

Read about how we're ensuring there are enough fish in New Zealand’s fisheries – now and for future generations.

 aquaculture

Aquaculture

How to set up an aquaculture farm. The government's strategy for sustainable aquaculture.

 An MPI compliance officer climbs aboard to check the catch records of a commercial cray-fishing vessel while divers in the dinghy prepare to inspect the hull for marine pests.

Quota Management System (QMS)

Find out what the Quota Management System (QMS) is and how it works. 

 fishing boat

Fisheries media releases

Find the latest Fisheries New Zealand media releases.

 speedboat passing cargo ship

Fisheries consultations

Have your say. We regularly consult on changes we make to ensure our fisheries remain sustainable.