The North West region stretches from north Taranaki to North Cape. The region is characterised by stretches of exposed, sandy coast, interspersed with rocky shores and significant harbours.

On the coast, fishing is influenced by the dominant weather conditions. Because of these conditions, the time that non-commercial fishers are able to fish can be limited by rough conditions, and nearly all the fresh commercial catch from the area is landed into Auckland through the Manukau Harbour. The exposed character of the coast also influences the nature of shellfish that can be found here. 

The region’s harbours are very important for tangata whenua and non-commercial and commercial fishing. They also provide nursery habitats of importance to fisheries management for the west coast of the North Island.

To find out about the region’s aquaculture, visit www.aquaculture.govt.nz