Fisheries Infosite

Fishery - Chatham Islands (FMA 4)


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
Blue codThe Chatham Islands form a unique and geographically isolated area. There is a high level of endemism amongst the species found there and the absence of some species that are found around mainland New Zealand. The uniqueness of the Chatham Islands is recognised in fisheries legislation. The Chatham Islands Inshore Fisheries (CIF) Plan area encompasses the inshore and inland waters of Fisheries Management Area 4 around the Chatham Islands. It includes reef fish, finfish, shellfish (including crustaceans), eels, and seaweeds. Fisheries are a valuable part of the Chatham Islands economy, and a significant contributor to overall fishery exports from New Zealand. Important species include rock lobster, paua, and blue cod.