They are found around New Zealand, usually in water no more than 200 metres deep. In spring and summer, they congregate in large numbers in broad shallow bays. In autumn, they migrate to the outer shelf. Most Rig make extensive coastal migrations. The females appear to travel the greatest distance-often up to 200 kilometres.

Rig are caught in coastal waters throughout New Zealand after their spring migration, usually in long set nets in shallow water (less than 50 metres deep).

Rig is often sold as lemonfish, especially battered and fried in fish and chip shops - the origin of the phrase 'shark 'n taties'.

Rig is a good source of Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Magnesium, Manganese, Selenium; and a source of Niacin (Vitamin B3), Iodine, Phosphorus, Potassium

Seafood is a highly nutritious food and is a great source of protein. Many species are low in saturated fat and a number of them are a good source of Omega 3.