9. COLIN KING (National—Kaikōura) Link to this
to the Minister of Fisheries
What reports has he received regarding New Zealand’s hoki fishery?
Hon PHIL HEATLEY (Minister of Fisheries) Link to this
The Ministry of Fisheries’ latest science shows that things are looking good for New Zealand’s hoki fishery. The western hoki stock is recovering well after several years of very slow growth. My understanding is that the stock is now within sustainable target levels. The eastern hoki stock continues to show good results.
What work has been undertaken by the Ministry of Fisheries and the industry to make these results happen?
The industry and the Ministry of Fisheries have been working together on a rebuilding strategy to help the western stock’s recovery, and catch limits have been progressively reduced. A successful rebuilding strategy in the hoki fishery was actually part of a requirement for Marine Stewardship Council recertification. These results show the good faith of all parties, and the robustness of the Marine Stewardship Council certification. We are keen to see other fisheries certified by the Marine Stewardship Council, so having success in hoki is very, very important.