MPI reduces catch limits for blue cod in Southland

Friday, 11 September 2020

Limits for blue cod catches will be reduced off Southland.

Catch limits for Blue Cod off Southland have been reduced in a bid to rebuild population numbers.

Fisheries Minister Stuart Nash announced a series of changes to catch limits on Friday, after public consultation in June.

“Public consultation showed ongoing concerns from many people about the current state of the Southland blue cod fishery. The science also shows a decline,” Nash said.

The popularity of Blue Cod meals had led to concerns of possible overfishing and the total catch limit would be reduced by 527 tonnes from October 1, he said.

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“… where a stock is below expected levels then I will act to protect it, and that is the case with blue cod in the deep south.

“Public consultation showed ongoing concerns from many people about the current state of the Southland blue cod fishery. The science also shows a decline. The total allowable catch will be reduced by 527 tonnes.

“Blue cod is a very popular fish but this popularity has led to concerns of overfishing. Some steps have already been taken to address concerns through the National Blue Cod Strategy. These catch reductions will further support the rebuild of this iconic species.

“In addition to these catch limit changes, I am making some adjustments to deemed value rates. These rates help incentivise commercial fishers to ensure their catch remains within the limits we set each year.”

Reduced catch limits have also been placed on Frostfish off the Chatham Rise and South East Coast; and a separate Frostfish stock off the West Coast.

Nash increased catch limits for 26 fish stocks, including Snapper in the Nelson/Tasman fishery, populations of Kingfish, Orange roughy on the Chatham Rise, and Stargazer (monkfish) off the South Island West Coast.

These decisions were based on the best available science and information, he said, and MPI would continue to monitor fisheries.

The most recent data showed New Zealand fisheries were in good shape, but there was always room for improvement, Nash said.

“It’s about making sure there are enough fish in the water for current and future generations to enjoy.”