Aquaculture New Zealand

19/06/2026

Did you know... The Better Beaches Project spends 2,000 hours a year cleaning beaches they didn't dirty.

But they want more. Their goal is 3,000 hours annually - that's enough to fill every day from New Year's to April.

Why? Because a healthy ocean is everyone's business.

We're proud to be a sponsor. Find out how you can support too. 🔗 Link in comments

Marine Farming Association

18/06/2026

We're delighted to welcome Sarah Bynevelt to the AQNZ and New Zealand Mussel Industry Council boards.

Sarah is a senior leader at Sanford Limited with deep experience across salmon processing, operations, and organisational change. She's known for bringing people together to drive real outcomes, and for her genuine commitment to a sustainable aquaculture future.

Previously recognised with the Future Leader Award at the NZ Seafood Sustainability Awards and the Individual Environmental Leadership Award at the Environment Southland Community Awards - we're certainly proud to have her expertise and perspective at the table!

16/06/2026

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Gilbert James, a true pioneer of aquaculture in New Zealand and a driving force behind the growth of our industry.

Gilbert’s legacy is woven through decades of dedication, leadership, and unwavering commitment to marine farming. From helping to establish the Coromandel Marine Farmers Association in 1981 to guiding it for more than 40 years, Gilbert played a foundational role in shaping the aquaculture sector we know today. His contribution to both industry and community is immense and enduring.

As Stephen Hand, Chair of the Coromandel Marine Farming Association, reflected, “Gilbert was a lifelong champion of aquaculture in this region and beyond and made a contribution that few could match.”

This captures the respect and admiration held for him across the sector.

Those who had the privilege of working alongside Gilbert will remember not only his vision and leadership, but also his steadfast commitment to the people and communities that underpin aquaculture in New Zealand.

A service to celebrate Gilbert’s life will be held at The Grahamstown Chapel, 102 Kirkwood Street, Thames, on Thursday 18 June at 11am.

Our thoughts are with Gilbert’s family, friends, and all who were touched by his life and work during this difficult time.

15/06/2026

Last week, our CE Tee Hale Pennington sat down with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and Stuart Smith MP, along with other aquaculture leaders in Blenheim to talk about the future of New Zealand aquaculture.

The conversation covered what the sector needs to grow - clearer regulations, faster approvals, and stronger investment in research and innovation. And the good news? Aquaculture is being recognised at the highest levels as critical to New Zealand's future.

This is the kind of advocacy work we do every day, making sure the people who shape policy understand the opportunity our sector represents. World-class seafood, low-carbon production, and a story New Zealand should be proud of.

We're just getting started!

14/06/2026

What does aquaculture have to do with Fieldays? More than most people realise.

Our CEO Tee attended for the first time this year - here's what she saw, and why it matters for the future of food in New Zealand 👇

https://loom.ly/JOp5bKQ

They say the mood of the country can be seen and felt at Fieldays and as a first-time visitor, it was impossible not to be struck by the energy. A glorious Waikato day. A sea of red bands. A steady stream of people investing in brands like Stoney Creek and Swandri, and in farm equipment of every sh

09/06/2026

Did you know the Government wants our aquaculture industry to be worth $3 billion by 2035?

This bold target means investment in innovation, infrastructure, people, and sustainable growth.

Follow along to watch our industry as it grows.

06/06/2026

Aquaculture in action...

Lines of Greenshell™ mussels growing in the Marlborough Sounds - seen from beneath the surface.

Not a bad day in the office.

05/06/2026

No matter where she was living, Kelly Dockery always knew she’d end up back at the family business, Aotea Marine Farms – a mussel spat catching farm in Kāwhia.

“Coming from a small town, I went to boarding school in Hamilton, then studied in Auckland and worked overseas, but I always came home during the holidays to help out.”

Now back full-time, working as a Sustainability Officer (and sometimes deckhand) Kelly is carving out her own path in aquaculture, working alongside her family and applying what she’s learned both at home and further afield.

For Kelly, it’s the variety that makes the industry worth it.

“No matter what your interest is… there are so many options.”

29/05/2026

Fresh New Zealand farmed mussels meet bold Thai flavours.

Want to impress your dinner guests this weekend? Try our Greenshell mussels in Thai green curry sauce - it won't disappoint.