Good news for hoki fishery as research shows

Good news for hoki fishery as research shows stock at sustainable levels

“This is good news for New Zealand’s hoki fishery,” says Owen Symmans, chief executive of the New Zealand Seafood Industry Council.

Industry-funded Ministry of Fisheries research has shown that both New Zealand’s eastern and western hoki stocks are within target levels. The research found that the eastern hoki stock remains very strong and that it has never been below the target range. Research also found that the western hoki stock is recovering well after several years where low numbers of young fish entered the fishery.

Since 2001, industry and government have worked together to rebuild the western fishery which included industry reducing its catch quota.

“Research funded by industry is a component of good fisheries management. We’re very pleased to hear the West Coast hoki stock is now back within sustainable levels and that our investment in the research and collaboration with the Ministry works well,” said Mr Symmans.

New Zealand’s hoki fishery is Marine Stewardship Council certified as sustainable, and has been since 2001.

ENDS

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