Public consultation is now open on proposed changes to catch limits for Chatham Rise orange roughy (ORH 3B) and blue mackerel (EMA 1), as part of the Government’s latest fisheries sustainability review.
The ORH 3B fishery—New Zealand’s largest orange roughy fishery by both area and volume—has been under scrutiny since a 40% reduction to catch limits was introduced in 2023. According to Fisheries New Zealand, new stock assessments indicate that further reductions may be necessary to meet long-term sustainability goals.
“Recent stock assessments indicate that further changes are needed to put the fishery back on track to meet sustainability targets,”
— Emma Taylor, Fisheries New Zealand director of fisheries management.
The new consultation invites public feedback on a range of options to reduce allowable harvest levels in ORH 3B. The review is a continuation of New Zealand’s science-led approach to managing deepwater fisheries and maintaining healthy fish stocks across generations.
Possible increase for Northern Blue Mackerel
Alongside the orange roughy proposals, Fisheries New Zealand is also consulting on potential changes to blue mackerel catch limits in the EMA 1 area, covering the east coast of Northland and the Bay of Plenty.
Unlike the Chatham Rise fishery, the blue mackerel stock is currently considered to be at or near its target biomass, prompting officials to seek public views on a modest catch limit increase.
“We want to hear people’s views about the risks and benefits of the options we have proposed,”
— Emma Taylor, Fisheries New Zealand.
Consultation details and next steps
Both sets of proposals are part of the October 2025 sustainability round. Public consultation is open now and will run through to 28 July 2025. After submissions close, advice will be prepared for Fisheries Minister Shane Jones, who will make the final decisions on any adjustments for the new fishing year starting 1 October 2025.
Fisheries New Zealand encourages commercial operators, iwi, environmental groups, recreational fishers and the general public to engage in the process.
The consultation documents and submission details can be accessed at:
👉 Fisheries NZ – October 2025 Sustainability Round
