Aquaculture sector reflects on progress and looks ahead with confidence
A year of transformation, strong advocacy, and a renewed focus to secure the long-term success of New Zealand aquaculture was the defining message from shareholders at Aquaculture New Zealand’s (AQNZ) Annual General Meeting in Nelson last week (Thursday 13 August).
AQNZ Chair Stewart Hawthorn said the organisation's focus remained where it has always been — on addressing the needs of levy payers and advocating for responsible sector growth that supports New Zealand’s regional economy and export earnings.
"This year we've reinforced that with new leadership at Board and executive level and stronger governance, we're well placed to keep delivering on it," said Hawthorn.
Throughout 2025/26, AQNZ maintained a strong advocacy focus, engaging extensively on key reforms that will shape the future regulatory environment for aquaculture, including the Planning Bill and Natural Environment Bill.
AQNZ continued its work with Ministers, officials and industry stakeholders to support practical pathways for industry growth while maintaining New Zealand's environmental standards.
The organisation also stood alongside farmers facing significant challenges, including the ongoing impacts of wastewater discharges affecting oyster growers in Mahurangi Harbour and local government wastewater decisions impacting farmers in Akaroa Harbour and Pegasus Bay.
"AQNZ's role is to be a strong and credible voice for our farmers, our communities and our sector. Whether advocating for better regulation, championing science investment and environmental responsibilities, or supporting businesses facing operational challenges, our focus remains on creating the conditions for aquaculture to thrive," Hawthorn said.
Looking ahead he said AQNZ would continue to focus on advocacy, stakeholder engagement, public science investment in farmer priorities, and building stronger connections across the sector.
"New Zealand aquaculture has an exciting future. Our products are world-class, our environmental story is strong, and our industry has significant growth potential. AQNZ is committed to ensuring the sector has the voice, leadership and support it needs to realise that opportunity."
The organisation has continued to push for policies that enable investment, provide regulatory certainty, consistency and unlock growth opportunities for the sector.
With aquaculture increasingly recognised by Government as an important contributor to regional development, food production and export earnings, AQNZ says now is the time to build momentum.
"We have a positive environmental story and growth ambition that can make a positive impact on New Zealand's economy and local communities,” says Hawthorn. “What we need is consistent political support and ongoing science investment to provide long-term certainty and consistency."
Looking ahead, AQNZ is encouraging farmers, industry partners, researchers, iwi, government representatives, students and suppliers to attend the 2026 AQNZ Conference in Nelson on 14-15 October.
Held under the theme Lead Boldly, the conference will bring together leaders and innovators from across the sector to discuss opportunities, challenges and the future of aquaculture in New Zealand.
"AQNZ continues to be a strong voice for the sector, and I look forward with confidence to what we can achieve together," Hawthorn says.
The AQNZ Annual Report and the New Zealand Mussel Industry Council (NZMIC) Annual Report were presented at the Annual General Meetings on Thursday 13 August.
Stewart Hawthorn - AQNZ Chair
“The organisation’s focus remained where it has always been — on addressing the needs of levy payers and advocating for responsible sector growth that supports New Zealand’s regional economy and export earnings”