National Blue Cod Strategy consultation results announced

The first phase of the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) National Blue Cod Strategy has been successfully completed.

A total of 335 people participated in the South Island information sessions, and MPI received over 1,100 responses to the first online survey, launched September 2017.

MPI inshore fisheries manager Steve Halley says the feedback indicates that blue cod fisheries in most areas are in good shape, several are suffering from localised overfishing, mortality of returned fish and illegal take.

MPI has started developing options to address the areas that are under pressure, and to protect the areas that are doing well. MPI will start the second phase of public engagement early next year, seeking feedback on these proposed options and on additional or alternative measures.

For more information, visit: https://www.mpi.govt.nz/protection-and-response/sustainable-fisheries/national-blue-cod-strategy/