Cabinet has cleared the way for a landmark overhaul of New Zealand’s fishing laws. The Fisheries Act 1996 will undergo major amendments under reforms announced by Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones.
The proposals follow an extensive consultation process earlier this year, when nearly 27,000 people and organisations lodged submissions. Officials say the package represents the most far-reaching changes to fisheries management in decades.
Reforms to Support Sustainable Growth in Fisheries
“These changes are the most significant reforms to the Fisheries Act for decades and they reflect my commitment to the success of our fishing industry, which generates around AUD 1.5 billion in exports each year,” Jones said.
“The law change will remove obstacles for the fishing industry to achieve its enormous potential for sustainable growth.”
Automatic Catch Limit Reviews for Greater Flexibility
The reforms introduce automatic rules to set catch limits, moving away from the current case-by-case approach. Limits will now adjust to stock abundance for up to five years.
“These rules will be subject to the usual scientific evaluation and consultation processes but will allow for greater catch when there are more fish in the water and more responsive intervention when fisheries need to recover,” Jones explained.
“This replaces the much slower process currently in place where each change must be assessed and be considered separately.” The government says the approach combines faster decision-making with sustainability safeguards.
Stronger Privacy Protections for Onboard Camera Footage
The reforms also change how onboard camera recordings are treated under the law. Footage will no longer be available through Official Information Act requests.
“We are making changes to the onboard camera programme to protect the privacy and confidentiality of regular New Zealanders going about their legal business,” Jones said. “Fishers won’t need to worry about private or commercially sensitive footage being publicly released and either deliberately or unintentionally misconstrued.”
Officials confirmed the footage will remain a tool for compliance but will not be publicly released.
Greater Discretion for Fishers on Landing Catch
Amendments to the Act give fishers more say over whether to land or return catch at sea. The rules apply to vessels with observers or cameras, where accountability is assured.
“As long as the catch is monitored and accounted for under the Fisheries Act, fishers will be able to decide whether to land or discard relevant catch,” Jones said. The government maintains the change will simplify the system while ensuring compliance.
Reform Bill to Enter Parliament
The government has cast the reforms as part of its centre-right agenda to cut red tape and support industry growth while safeguarding privacy.
“I want a thriving and sustainable fishing industry that continues to contribute to New Zealand’s export-led recovery,” Jones said. The amendment bill is due to be introduced later this year, with further scrutiny at the select committee stage.