New Zealand's seascape is particularly rich and complex due to its extension over 30° of latitude (from sub-tropical to sub-antarctic), its position on an active plate boundary, and its position in relation to major water masses and current systems. These factors provide New Zealand with a rich diversity of marine habitats, which provide homes to over 15,000 known species. Scientists estimate that there may be as many as 65,000 marine species in New Zealand waters. Our isolation means that many of these species are not found anywhere else in the world.

Scientists estimate that as much as 80% of New Zealand’s indigenous biodiversity may be found in the sea. Yet less than 1% of our marine environment has ever been surveyed. On average, seven new marine species are identified every fortnight.

NZ Marine Fisheries Waters (EEZ and Territorial Sea) 4.4 million km²
NZ Coastline 15,000 km
Marine species described 15,000
Species commercially fished 130
Climate Sub-tropical to sub-Antarctic

Commercial Fisheries and Aquaculture
Total export value 2006 (FOB) $1.35 billion
Capture fisheries $1.1 billion
Aquaculture[4] $242 million
Total quota value[5] $3.8 billion
Persons with quota holding 1,678
Commercial fishing vessels 1,372
Processors and Licensed Fish Receivers 229
Direct employment (full time equivalents)[6] 7,155
Annual take (in NZ EEZ) 517,000 tonnes
Allowable take (TACC)[7] 589,000 tonnes

Customary Fisheries
Tangata Tiaki appointed (South Island) 134
Tangata Kaitiaki appointed (North Island) 176
Temporary closures 5
Taiapure-local fisheries 8
Mätaitai reserves 6
Customary take provided for within the TAC 4,688 tonnes

Recreational Fisheries
Estimated participation (as a % of the total NZ population) 20%
Estimated annual take 25,000 tonnes

For up-to-date infromation on the state of our fisheries, click here!

For NZ's Department of Conservation Marine and Coastal information, click here!

To see a list of NZ freshwater and marine species, click here!