Fisheries Infosite

Scallop Chatham Islands scallop fishery (SCA4)
Maori name
Scientific name
Pecten novaezelandiae

Physical characteristics

Scallops grow to a width of 157mm with a circular shell of two equal sizes.  The upper shell is flat and the lower shell convexed.  The shells are "scalloped" with radiating ridges.  Colour; pink, white, mauve and brown.

Life cycle

Scallops live for around 5 years and reproduce at 3 years old.

Habitat

Scallops are found throughout New Zealand in sand and mud from low tide to 50m depth. Often in sheltered waters of harbours. 
 
Key statistics
Recreational significance High
Customary significance 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