Fisheries Infosite

Paua Fiordland (PAU5A)
Maori name
Scientific name
Haliotis iris, H. australis

 

Physical characteristics

Paua have a multi-coloured interior shell. They vary regionally in size.

Life cycle

Paua are broadcast spawners that reach maturity at a length of 93-133 mm.

Habitat

Paua inhabit reefs in shallow subtidal coastal water around New Zealand.

 
Key statistics
Recreational significance High
Customary significance High
Reported commercial catch1 (tonnes) 18.5
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