Fisheries Infosite

White Warehou Challenger (WWA7)
Scientific name
Seriolella caerulea

Physical characteristics

White Warehou have entirely white-grey bodies, and are distinguishable by their large eyes and small scales. They can grow to a maximum length of 70 cm, but most adults are 40-60 cm.

Life cycle

The maximum age of White Warehou is uncertain, but estimates range from 12 to 23 years. Sexual maturity is reached at 3-4 years of age, and a length of 38-47 cm.

Habitat

White Warehou are most common around central and southern New Zealand. They live from 200-700 m depth and predominantly feed on salps.

 
Key statistics
Recreational significance Low
Customary significance Low
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