Open ocean opportunities for iwi aquaculture

The Government has set aside two Aquaculture Settlement Areas (ASAs) in Marlborough to ensure space remains available for iwi aquaculture projects during ongoing negotiations under the Māori Commercial Aquaculture Claims Settlement Act. The ASAs total 5,926 hectares, including 4,056 hectares east of D’Urville Island and 1,870 hectares in Cloudy Bay, though only a portion may eventually be used for marine farms. Current fishing activities within these areas, including recreational, commercial, and customary, will remain unaffected. Any future aquaculture development will still require standard regulatory approval and consent processes.

Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones highlighted the potential economic benefits of open ocean aquaculture for Marlborough, stating that the ASAs represent a significant step in negotiations with iwi. He noted that such projects could generate export income, create stable jobs, and enhance economic resilience in the region. The Minister also emphasized the growing global demand for sustainable seafood, positioning open ocean salmon farming as a key driver to meet this need.

The announcement follows the launch of New Zealand’s first open ocean salmon farm outside the Marlborough Sounds earlier this year, signaling the region’s emerging role in the sector’s expansion. The Government’s Aquaculture Development Plan outlines a broader strategy to achieve $3 billion in annual aquaculture revenue by 2035, with open ocean farming identified as a critical component of this growth.

The ASAs are designed to provide iwi with opportunities to participate in the aquaculture boom while ensuring existing marine activities are protected. The Crown and Te Tau Ihu iwi will continue negotiations to determine the final use of these areas, with decisions subject to regulatory and environmental assessments.