The government has opened consultation on a set of proposed reforms to the Fisheries Act, which Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones describes as the most significant changes to the sector in decades.

“The Coalition Government is committed to the success of the fishing industry, which generates around $1.6 billion in exports each year and employs 9,000 people directly,” Mr Jones said.

“The proposed changes, which I flagged in September last year, will remove unnecessary regulations that impede productivity and the potential of the sector. It is through changes in industries like this that New Zealand is going to fight its way back to economic prosperity.”

The consultation document released today outlines options to enhance sustainability, streamline regulatory processes, and refine tools used to set catch limits.

Additionally, the proposals aim to improve privacy protections for fishers on vessels equipped with onboard cameras and to make fish discard rules under the Quota Management System more practical.

The reforms have been developed following discussions with a seafood industry forum established last year.

While economic efficiency is a key focus, Mr Jones emphasised that sustainability remains a priority.

“Sustainability will always be the bottom line for fisheries management, and there’s an opportunity to lift export revenue by improving productivity and efficiency, rather than catch volume,” he said.

He noted that advancements in data collection, including the rollout of onboard cameras, have provided more accurate insights into fisheries.

However, adjustments to monitoring rules are needed to balance data transparency with privacy protections.

“This includes enhancing protections for onboard camera footage, amending the scope of where monitoring is not practical or necessary, and clarifying when cameras must be used,” Mr Jones said.

The consultation also seeks input on refining discard regulations to make them more workable for fishers under monitored conditions.

“I encourage anyone with an interest to read through the proposals and provide feedback,” Mr Jones added.

The consultation document, along with submission details, is available on the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) website.

Submissions will be accepted until 5 pm on 28 March 2025.

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