Southland allocates 9000 hectares for offshore aquaculture development

NEW ZEALAND – The government has allocated nearly 9,000 hectares of Southland’s offshore waters for assessment as potential sites for aquaculture development to advance New Zealand’s aquaculture sector. 

This initiative, announced by Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones in Invercargill, seeks to explore mussel, salmon, and seaweed farming opportunities in collaboration with Ngāi Tahu, the local iwi.  

The designated areas include Port Pegasus, Rarotoka South and North, Port Adventure in the Foveaux Strait, and Ruapuke near Rakiura/Stewart Island. 

These zones will undergo detailed surveys to determine their suitability for aquaculture, a key industry the government aims to grow into a $3 (Approximately US$1.76) billion sector by 2035.  

Ngāi Tahu’s involvement stems from the Māori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Act 2004, which ensures iwi access to 20% of all consented aquaculture space.

This partnership underlines the Crown’s commitment to shared prosperity and sustainability in the region.  

Minister Jones emphasised the broader vision driving this initiative, stating, “Making space for this kind of exploration with Ngāi Tahu today will bring the certainty needed for jobs, opportunities, and export dollars tomorrow.” 

He reassured stakeholders that current fishing activities within the proposed zones would remain unaffected during the assessment phase, and any aquaculture development would still require standard resource consent.  

Justin Tipa, kaiwhakahaere (executive officer) of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu, highlighted the iwi’s forward-looking approach to these opportunities. 

“Oceans are warming, and the world population is growing. Aquaculture is becoming essential to providing people with healthy protein while reducing pressure on wild fish,” he remarked.  

With a focus on sustainable practices, Tipa noted that aquaculture could offer food security while preserving marine ecosystems. 

“When we approach these opportunities, we are thinking of the generations to come after us. The technology now allows farms to thrive in the open ocean, ensuring a balance between economic growth and environmental care.”  

The initiative builds on similar projects in Otago, where six Aquaculture Settlement Areas, including three offshore and three onshore sites, were declared earlier this year. 

By leveraging advanced technology and strategic partnerships, Southland’s proposed sites aim to position New Zealand as a global leader in aquaculture innovation.  

The next steps involve comprehensive surveys of the designated areas, paving the way for Ngāi Tahu and other stakeholders to transform these waters into hubs of sustainable aquaculture. 

If successful, this project promises not only a boost to the local economy but also a crucial contribution to global food security and environmental stewardship.

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