April 18, 2008

New Zealand gains 803-hectares of aquaculture space
 

About 803-hectares of space in the Golden Bay, Tasman Bay and the Kaipara Harbour have been approved for aquaculture development.

The aquaculture development approvals would create jobs and boost the regions' economy, according to Fisheries Minister Jim Anderton.

Aquaculture in New Zealand has great potential and the target is to create an industry worth NZD 3 million (US$2.3 million) a day within twenty years, said Anderton.

He added that New Zealand aquaculture could benefit from a fast growing global demand for seafood products.

An extensive assessment of the effect of new aquaculture areas to the environment, fish stocks, commercial, customary and recreational fishing was conducted by the Ministry of Fisheries before the approvals were given.