Fisheries Infosite

Pipi Southland and Sub-Antarctic (Combined) (PPI5)
Maori name
Scientific name
Paphies australis

Physical characteristics

Pipi can grow to a maximum length of 60 mm, reaching up to 30 mm in their first year.

Life cycle

Pipi reach maturity at approximately 40 mm in length. Growth is seasonal and occurs mainly during spring and summer. Pipi are broadcast spawners and spawning takes place from late winter - late summer.

Habitat

Pipi are found all around New Zealand's coastline including the Chatham and Auckland Islands. They inhabit protected beaches, bays and estuaries. Pipis are found intertidally and to depths of 7 m.

 
Key statistics
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