Fisheries Infosite

Anchovy Challenger (ANC7)
Maori name
Scientific name
Engraulis australis

Physical characteristics

Anchovy have pale silver-green bodies with a silver underside, and grow to a maximum length of 15 cm.

Life cycle

The maximum age of Anchovy in New Zealand has not been established. Australian research has shown maturity to be reached at an age of 1 year. Spawning appears to take place during spring-summer.

Habitat

Anchovy are found all around New Zealand, and are most common in central and northern regions. They live inshore in gulfs, bays, harbours, and some large estuaries. They are planktivorous feeders.

 
Key statistics
Recreational significance Low
Customary significance Low
Reported commercial catch1 (tonnes)
Quota value estimate2 (NZ$m)
Exports estimate2 (NZ$m)
1 Reported commercial catch is calculated for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025
2 Quota value and exports are calculated pro-rata to reported commercial catch for the 12 month period to 30/09/2025