This document describes the rapid update framework and applies the rapid updates for five rock lobster QMAs: CRA 1, CRA 2, CRA 3, CRA 4, and CRA 5. The rapid updates used an additional year of catch, length frequencies, sex ratios, and tag-recapture data to update the base model from the most recent full assessment or last year’s rapid update. The results provide inference about stock status in the interim years between full assessments.

This study applied a Bayesian length-based stock assessment model to pāua (Haliotis iris) in quota management area PAU 2. The model used only model-derived inputs, with almost identical conclusions between a single and multi-area assessments. The base case suggested stock levels near 50% of unfished biomass, with slow declines over recent decades. Projections for both models suggested little change from current stock status over the next three years and into the future at current catch levels.

Standardised catch per unit effort (CPUE) indices for blue mackerel in EMA 7 were updated. The results suggested that blue mackerel abundance decreased from 1996–97 to 2004–05 and then stabilised until 2017–18, at 20–30% of the level seen at the start (1996–97 to 1999–2000). A stock assessment based on these CPUE indices was attempted, but none of the models were accepted as valid representations of the dynamics of this stock. The assessment was rejected for use in providing management advice.

This report provides a survey on the afforestation intentions for exotic and indigenous forest, and deforestation intentions for planted forest up until 2030.