A major new investment to restore a key area of the southern scallop fishery will help rebuild a valuable regional industry, restore marine habitat and create a pathway to a self-sustaining fishery.
The Government will co-invest NZD 1.97 million through the Primary Sector Growth Fund (PSGF) in the seven-year Challenger scallop fishery restoration programme, alongside significant industry investment led by the Challenger Scallop Enhancement Company (CSEC).
Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones said the southern scallop fishery in Tasman and Golden Bays was once New Zealand's largest commercial scallop fishery. This investment aims to create the conditions for its recovery so future generations can benefit from a healthy and productive fishery.
“The project brings together science, innovation and industry expertise to rebuild the fishery.”
The fishery has remained closed following years of habitat degradation, sedimentation, and poor juvenile scallop survival. A feasibility study completed earlier this year confirmed traditional enhancement methods alone would not be enough to restore stocks.
A key component of the project will be restoring about 39ha of seabed, including placing thousands of cubic metres of mussel shell to improve habitat conditions for scallops and other marine species.
“This investment is about far more than scallops. It is about restoring marine habitat for scallops, improving biodiversity, and rebuilding the foundations of a fishery that supports economic, cultural, and community wellbeing,” said Jones.
The project has strong backing from industry and iwi. CSEC's shareholders include the eight Top of the South iwi and more than 20 commercial fishing and processing businesses.
The total project value is NZD 5.02 million, with industry contributing more than 60 percent of overall funding through cash and in-kind support.
Modelling has indicated that the restored fishery could generate around NZD 21m in new revenue over 20 years, delivering significant long-term benefits for the regional economy and the seafood sector.
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