New Zealand helps Tongan deep water fisheries development

New Zealand helps Tongan deep water fisheries development

Fisheries scientists from NIWA are in Tonga this week to launch a programme to help the Pacific island nation maximise the economic benefits of commercial fishing.

As part of a $2.7 million New Zealand Government-funded project launched last year, NIWA will work with the Secretariat for the Pacific Community, Tonga’s government and the local fishing industry to develop a sustainable line fishery for deep water fish in Tonga's Exclusive Economic Zone.

Project leader and NIWA fisheries scientist Dr Stuart Hanchet said the project will also explore ways to maximise economic returns and develop new market opportunities.

"Biological sustainability and improved management are key objectives,” Dr Hanchet said.

As part of the initial roll-out of the programme, Dr Hanchet will be running an introductory course in the analysis of fisheries data for Tongan fisheries staff. This will complement guidance on research into the biology and abundance of deep water snapper and the management and operation of the fishery.

“We will also review the terms of reference for the economic and market analysis of the fishery and seek feedback on the project from the deep water snapper stakeholders group,” said Dr Hanchet.

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