September 11, 2008

Wakatu Incorporation has announced plans for the 78-hectares Horoirangi Centre of Seafood and Aquaculture, a move that industry players said could benefit New Zealand's seafood sector.

The NZ$10 million seafood and aquaculture centre based at the Glen is expected to complete over the next 5-10 years.

Talley's Fisheries managing director Peter Talley said the centre could significantly contribute to the regional economy and also has the potential to contribute to the national seafood industry, which generated NZ$1.2 billion of exports last year.

This is the kind of investment needed to boost New Zealand's seafood facilities and resources, Talley said.

The centre is projected to initially focus on commercial aquaculture farming, with hatcheries and research laboratories, before moving on to include a marine education centre, hospitality and tourism facilities.

Talley said the development would complement the aims of increasing seafood value through training, education and research. Talley also expressed his interest in working with Wakatu.

Ken Grange, regional manager for the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), said NIWA had agreed to join Wakatu in the feasibility study stage and the preparation of a business case.

Wataku wants the land to be rezoned for aquaculture, which could bring in potential investors for the company.

The Nelson region is expected to gain considerable economic benefit but Glen secretary Ketana Saxon said residents were concerned of developments that could affect them and the Boulder Bank, even though the site was some distance away from the Glen settlement.