Aggregation limits application 2024

DECISION: PENDING

Introduction

In October 2024 Fisheries New Zealand advised that Pelco NZ Ltd had submitted another application to exceed the statutory quota aggregation limits for blue mackerel (EMA) and kahawai (KAH). Submissions were due by 29 November 2024.

This application is similar to the 2020 application by Pelco NZ. In 2020 Pelco NZ applied for a similar exemption with an additional 5% as a buffer. That application was declined by the Minister in 2022.

During November 2024 the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council worked with a range of organisations and individuals to understand the application and the reasons why the Minister declined Pelco’s previous application in 2022.

Proposal

Pelco NZ has applied for an exemption from quota aggregation limits for blue mackerel and kahawai. The application is made under section 60 of the Fisheries Act 1996.

For kahawai, the existing aggregation limit is 35% and for blue mackerel it is 45% of the combined total allowable commercial catches (TACCs) for each species.

Pelco NZ has applied to hold 45.993% of all kahawai quota, and 55.304% of all blue mackerel quota.

Submission

On 29 November 2024 the NZSFC submitted against the application by Pelco NZ on the basis that aggregation limits exist to constrain the potential for monopolies to become established within the Quota Management System (QMS).

Aggregation limits are statutory limits under s60 of the Fisheries Act. Despite being a statutory tool, the effectiveness of the limits have been eroded over time. Initially, both kahawai and blue mackerel were limited to an aggregation limit of 20% per stock ie. per management area. Now, aggregation limits apply across the whole species within the QMS.

Relevant information

2024

Submission

Application