Aquaculture industry 'on the cusp'

A meeting was being held in Havelock today to discuss the aquaculture industry's response to a recent report aimed at kick-starting marine farming in New Zealand.

Earlier this month Fisheries Minister Phil Heatley released the report, which was prepared by a technical advisory group put together by the Government with the aim of providing guidance on how to encourage and develop the industry.

Aquaculture New Zealand chairman Peter Vitasovich said the report had prompted much discussion within the industry about the economic returns that could be delivered.

Aquaculture New Zealand has been holding meetings around the country with its membership to help formulate its response to the report, which signalled some significant changes to the current processes required to establish marine farming operations.

Key issues included barriers to investment in marine farming, the onerous planning process, environmental standards and shared use of the coast, he said.

"The aquaculture sector is on the cusp of real and positive change. However, key to that change is the understanding of communities and other coastal users of what, and how, the change will occur."

Mr Vitasovich said the meetings would help bring together a coherent view to present to the minister.

"It is hoped this response will inform the impending legislation to provide the sector with the opportunity to fulfil its potential as an environmentally responsible economic contributor."

Submissions on the report are due in mid-December.

- © Fairfax NZ News

Newest First

Oldest First