Fisheries Infosite

Fishery - Freshwater (general)


Key statistics
Recreational significance High
Customary significance High
Environmental importance High
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
Related links

The 'Freshwater General' fisheries plan will focus on key freshwater species found throughout the country that are currently managed under the Fisheries Act 1996.

Eel species are not included in this plan as they are considered under their own plans.  Similarly, Chatham Islands freshwater issues are likely to be encompassed within the Chatham Islands fisheries plan.
Karapiro Dam, Waikato
The freshwater general fisheries plan does not include the direct management of species classed as 'sportsfish' (eg salmon or trout) or unwanted organisms, as their management is presently administered under other legislation.