We are not far from the next general election – with just over eight months to go.
It is increasingly clear that seafood, commercial fishing and marine sustainability is becoming an election issue. A recent article (paywalled) highlighted fisheries as an unexpected election battleground, reflecting the growing attention on food production and social license.
While it might seem worrying, for our industry, we should see this as an opportunity.
Seafood is a cornerstone of many regional economies. It supports thousands of jobs, contributes billions in export earnings and is a taste of home for many Kiwis. But like many primary sectors, it also operates in a complex policy environment shaped by regulation, public perception and science. That means political engagement is not optional – it is essential.
Over the coming months, Seafood New Zealand will continue to engage actively and constructively with political parties across the spectrum. Our goal is not partisan alignment. It is informed decision-making.
Last week, we were pleased to meet with members of the National Party Agricultural Caucus to discuss the realities facing our sector – from regulatory pressures and sustainability performance through to regional economic contribution and future opportunities. These conversations are valuable because they allow politicians to hear directly from industry and to understand the practical implications of policy choices.
Importantly, our engagement does not stop with one party. We have and will continue meeting with representatives from across Parliament in the lead-up to the election, and afterwards, regardless of the outcome. Our role is to advocate for the seafood sector with whoever is in government.
We want policymakers to understand the realities of modern seafood production: the investments in innovation and monitoring, the progress made in sustainability, the pressures facing businesses, and the opportunities ahead for growth and value creation. We also want policy conversations grounded in evidence, science and practical outcomes for communities.
Constructive engagement matters now more than ever. Internationally, New Zealand is seen as a world leader in high-quality, responsibly harvested seafood, but maintaining this requires stable, predictable policy settings and collaboration between industry and government.
As we approach the election period, we will be encouraging all political parties to engage with the seafood sector, visit coastal communities and speak directly with the people whose livelihoods depend on the ocean. We also encourage the industry to take part in these conversations and to share their stories, challenges and aspirations.
Regardless of the election result, Seafood New Zealand’s commitment remains constant: advocating for a thriving, sustainable seafood sector that delivers value for the economy, the environment and our communities.
Because ultimately, strong fisheries and oceans policy is not about politics. It is about New Zealand’s future.
