MEDIA RELEASE
 
 
Vision for world class aquaculture region set to launch

For immediate release: 26 November 2009

The vision for the Bay of Plenty to be a world class aquaculture region moves a step closer on Monday with the official launch of a regional aquaculture strategy, which forms part of the wider Bay of Connections economic strategy for the region.

The aquaculture strategy’s launch coincides with celebrations for the consent approval for the Eastern Sea Farms’ offshore marine farm and for the Ōpōtiki Harbour development.

The mussel farm, which will be the largest in New Zealand, would bring significant income and jobs into the Bay of Plenty. The 3800-hectare farm located about 8.5km off the Ōpōtiki coast will be built in stages.

“Aquaculture is the fastest growing seafood sector and we have a unique and exciting opportunity to become a world class aquaculture region,” Regional Governance Group Chair John Cronin said.

“Our goal is to have export sales of $250 million by 2025. With the current achievements and progress underway, the Bay of Plenty is now well on its way to building the foundations for that goal,” he said.

Chairman Cronin said the Government is committed to developing the aquaculture sector and can see the huge economic potential of this relatively new sector.

The Bay of Plenty Polytechnic is currently building a research area to help with the development of aquaculture in the region, and is offering courses in aquaculture.

Chairman Cronin said market development, Māori development, research, development and training, building strong relationships at regional and national level, and establishing a regional aquaculture organisation are fundamental to the strategy’s success.

For more information about the Regional Governance Group and the aquaculture strategy go to www.bayofconnections.com

ENDS.

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