Annual Operational Plan - For Highly Migratory Species and Pacific Fisheries 2022/23
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Annual Operational Plan For Highly Migratory Species and Pacific Fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New Zealand Technical Paper No: 2022/04 Prepared by Fisheries New Zealand ISBN No: 978-1-99-103984-2 (online) ISSN No: 2624-053X (online) July 2022
Disclaimer While every effort has been made to ensure the information in this publication is accurate, Fisheries New Zealand does not accept any responsibility or liability for error of fact, omission, interpretation or opinion that may be present, nor for the consequences of any decisions based on this information. This publication is available on the Ministry for Primary Industries website at http://www.mpi.govt.nz/news-and-resources/publications © Crown Copyright – Fisheries New Zealand
Contents Page
Overview of the Annual Operational Plan for Highly Migratory Species Fisheries 2022/23 2
Purpose 2
Scope 2
Key Focus Areas (KFAs) 3
Manage interactions of HMS fisheries with seabirds 3
Contribute to international processes through regional fisheries management organisations 5
Manage interactions of HMS fisheries with sharks and sea turtles 8
Business as Usual (BAU) tasks 10
Engage with tangata whenua and fisheries stakeholders 10
Māori rights and interests in HMS fisheries 12
Strengthen management of recreational HMS fisheries 14
Contribute to the MPI Pacific fisheries capacity development programme, Te Pātuitanga Ahumoana a
Kiwa 15
Develop and implement the HMS research plan 17
Work plan for the HMS team for 2022/23 18
Appendix 23
Planned observer days for HMS fisheries for 2022/23 23
HMS compliance priorities for 2022/23 24
HMS research projects for 2022/23 25
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 1Overview of the Annual Operational Plan for Highly Migratory
Species Fisheries 2022/23
PURPOSE
The Annual Operational Plan for Highly Migratory Species Fisheries 2022/23 (the Annual Operational
Plan) establishes Key Focus Areas (KFA) and Business As Usual (BAU) tasks for the management of
New Zealand’s Highly Migratory Species (HMS) fisheries. This Annual Operational Plan commences
on 1 July 2022, and will expire on 30 June 2023.
SCOPE
The Annual Operational Plan management initiatives are aimed at achieving desired outcomes outlined
in the national fisheries plan for New Zealand’s HMS fisheries
Highly migratory species of fish travel large distances and are found in both New Zealand’s exclusive
economic zone, other states’ exclusive economic zones, and on the high seas.
New Zealand's commercial HMS fisheries target:
• Large pelagic species, such as bigeye tuna, yellowfin tuna, southern bluefin tuna, Pacific
bluefin tuna and swordfish, targeted by surface longline operations. Important non-target
species include albacore tuna, pelagic sharks, Ray's bream, and moonfish.
• Skipjack tuna: targeted by New Zealand purse seine operations in both New Zealand’s
exclusive economic zone and on the high seas.
• Albacore tuna: mostly targeted by trolling operations on the east and west coasts of the North
Island and west coast of the South Island.
New Zealand’s HMS fisheries mainly operate within New Zealand’s fisheries waters but are subject to
both domestic and regional management requirements. Therefore, the Annual Operational Plan must
also account for New Zealand’s international obligations to regional fisheries management
organisations.
This Annual Operational Plan has been prepared in consultation with tangata whenua representatives,
industry, the recreational sector, and environmental organisations.
2 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandKey Focus Areas (KFAs)
The Key Focus Areas (KFAs) for the management of HMS fisheries during 2022/23 are outlined below.
KFA 1 MANAGE INTERACTIONS OF HMS FISHERIES WITH SEABIRDS
Overview
Interactions between the surface longline fishery and high risk seabird species continue. The
initiatives and the implementation plan for the National Plan of Action to reduce the incidental catch
of seabirds in New Zealand fisheries 2020 (the National Plan of Action for Seabirds) drive the
management initiatives for this Key Focus Area.
The HMS team will also continue to monitor the following seabird proxy measures 1:
• Observed compliance with mitigation measures;
• The observed capture rate of seabirds compared with the non-observed capture rate; and
• Vessel adherence to protected species risk management plans.
HMS Management Initiatives
Implement the National Plan of Action for Seabirds initiatives for HMS.
Participate in the biannual Seabird Advisory Group Meetings and contribute to the
initiatives of this group.
Contribute to the development of a mitigation standard review process to determine whether
current seabird mitigation standards are effective and their potential wider environmental
impacts.
Contribute to the National Plan of Action for Seabirds Annual Report.
Monitor seabird captures and seabird proxy measures using observer data and fisher
reporting.
Monitor use of regulated and voluntary seabird mitigation.
Prioritise monitoring of seabird mitigation during Operation Nasse (regional monitoring,
control and surveillance operation on the high seas).
Liaise with the Department of Conservation’s Protected Species Liaison Officer
Programme.
Provide information on seabird related issues at stakeholder meetings.
Support industry initiatives.
Raise awareness on seabird issues with tangata whenua and stakeholders through the
Longline Workshop and Fish Plan Advisory Group.
Support research to determine options to improve seabird mitigation practices.
Continue to seek improvements to data acquisition and data sharing on bycatch species
across regional fisheries management organisations (RFMOs).
Use the existing Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
and Trade and Ministry for Primary Industries to help Small Island Developing States
manage seabird interactions.
1
Seabird proxy measures are used in lieu of seabird capture rates since the observer coverage achieved does not allow
sufficiently robust capture rates to be determined.
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 3Associated services from other MPI teams and stakeholders
Science: lead research projects and provide advice as required.
Compliance: monitor and enforce compliance with seabird mitigation requirements.
Observer Services: deliver planned observer coverage and collect information on bycatch
and mitigation use.
Data Management: manage data submission processes for regional fisheries management
organisations, and provide data for seabird proxy targets
International Fisheries Management: Raise awareness of seabird bycatch issues as part of
bilateral discussions with relevant states and RFMO processes.
Stakeholders: support Protected Species Liaison Programme; contribute to the Seabird
Advisory Group; contribute to working groups; support efforts to improve representativeness
of observer coverage; influence positive outcomes through outreach beyond government;
and provide feedback during consultations.
4 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandKFA 2
CONTRIBUTE TO INTERNATIONAL PROCESSES THROUGH
REGIONAL FISHERIES MANAGEMENT ORGANISATIONS
Overview
Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna (CCSBT)
This year at the CCBST, the global total allowable catch for the next quota block (2024-2026) will be
agreed and could lead to changes in New Zealand’s national allocation. In 2023 there will be a new
stock assessment.
At the 2021 Commission meeting, there was little progress on resolving the potential underreporting
in the Australian southern bluefin tuna farming operations. Australia again committed to trial stereo
video, which it will endeavour to start in late 2022. New Zealand has previously stated that continued
uncertainty in the Japanese market and Australian farming operations would constrain its ability to
support further increases to the global catch limit.
In March 2022, there was an intersessional meeting of the Ecologically Related Species Working
Group. At this meeting, participating members agreed on a Multi-year Seabird Strategy. A key
component of the strategy is a commitment amongst Members to work collaboratively on initiatives
to reduce seabird bycatch, most notably in terms of data sharing to inform an update to the New
Zealand led seabird risk assessment. Japan in particular has expressed a strong desire to collaborate
with New Zealand in this area and will be the focus of direct outreach this year.
At the 2021 Compliance Committee meeting, New Zealand committed to conducting intersessional
work to determine the future of the Quality Assurance Review process for CCSBT. The HMS team
will lead this work in conjunction with MPI International Fisheries Compliance. New Zealand also
committed to intersessional work to update the CCSBT Scientific Observer Program Standard to
encompass electronic monitoring. This work will also be led by the HMS Team.
The HMS team will also continue to: take part in trialling the electronic Catch Documentation Scheme
which is in its final stages of development; provide input to develop compliance assessment tools and
processes; and work with Birdlife International on the project for enhancing education on, and
implementation of, Ecologically Related Species seabird measures within CCSBT fisheries.
The HMS team will continue to engage with tangata whenua and stakeholders when developing
positions related to the CCSBT.
CCSBT business as usual tasks for the year ahead include administering the Catch Documentation
Scheme, administering the authorised vessel list, preparing and submitting fisheries data, and
preparing for annual and subsidiary meetings (which will be virtual):
• 27th Meeting of the Extended Scientific Committee (29 August to 06 September 2022);
• 17th Meeting of the Compliance Committee (4 to 7 October 2022); and
• 29th Annual Meeting of the CCSBT (10 to 14 October 2022).
Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC)
In 2021, WCPFC agreed on a renewed tropical tuna measure which will remain in place until February
2024. There is, however, outstanding work to develop high seas effort or catch limits and allocations,
including for small island developing States (SIDS) which are exempt from any limits at present.
Currently, high seas purse seine fishing is managed through effort limits for flag States, with
New Zealand allocated 160 days. New Zealand’s aim is to maintain an appropriate allocation of either
high seas purse seine catch or effort.
There are currently Convention Area (covering both high seas and EEZs) bigeye limits for flag States.
FFA members support a move to zone-based management, with separate limits for high seas bigeye
catch. The work to determine high seas purse seine limits and allocations and bigeye limits and
allocations is due to take place over 2022-2023.
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 5Given concerns about the status of south Pacific albacore and compliance with the existing measure,
it is expected that the work of the WCPFC group on south Pacific albacore (chaired by Fiji) will be
prioritised in 2022. This may include consideration of a recalibrated Target Reference Point and
discussion of an overall total allowable catch for south Pacific albacore. New Zealand’s aim is to
secure an appropriate allocation for south Pacific albacore fishing within our exclusive economic
zone.
Work is ongoing within the WCPFC to develop harvest strategies for the four main tuna species
(albacore, bigeye, yellowfin and skipjack tuna), with management procedures for skipjack and south
Pacific albacore due to be considered in 2022. In 2022, the Scientific Committee will consider stock
assessments for skipjack, Pacific bluefin, north Pacific swordfish, north Pacific blue shark, and south
west Pacific mako.
The inaugural Science Management Dialogue, an initiative to bring together fisheries scientists and
managers, will meet following the Scientific Committee and should assist decision-making on harvest
strategies.
Work to improve the Compliance Monitoring Scheme will be a WCPFC priority in 2022. New Zealand
is leading work to develop a risk-based assessment framework to help prioritise the obligations to be
assessed annually. New Zealand and Indonesia are also co-leading work to develop a measure on
the safety of crew on fishing vessels.
WCPFC business as usual tasks include inputting New Zealand vessels onto the WCPFC’s record of
fishing vessels as required; issuing and updating high seas permits as required to ensure
New Zealand vessels fishing within the WCPFC area comply with all relevant measures; preparing
and submitting fisheries data; and preparing for annual and subsidiary meetings, including:
• 18th Regular Session of the Scientific Committee (10-18 August 2022);
• WCPFC Science-Management Dialogue (19 and 22 August 2022);
• 18th Regular Session of the Technical and Compliance Committee (21-27 September 2022);
and
• 19th Regular Session of the Commission (TBC December 2022).
The HMS and International Fisheries Management teams will engage with tangata whenua and
stakeholders when developing positions for the WCPFC, particularly in cases where these relate to
issues that directly impact the New Zealand fleet either now or in the future.
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a significant impact on the ability of the WCPFC to
operate in 2022, with virtual meetings and reduced agendas.
In June 2022, the WCPFC reviewed the temporary decisions made in response to COVID-19 in
relation to purse seine observer requirements and transhipment observer requirements. It was
agreed that purse seine observer coverage should resume from 1 January 2023. It was also agreed
that transhipment observer coverage should resume from 15 June 2022. Between 15 June and 31
December is considered a transitional period, in which “best efforts” must be made to place observers
on transhipment carrier vessels. The WCPFC has provided guidelines for the safe placement of
observers on vessels in the COVID-19 context 2.
HMS Management Initiatives
Lead intersessional work on determining the future of a Quality Assurance Review process
for CCSBT.
Work collaboratively with Japan on initiatives to reduce seabird bycatch, most notably in
areas of data sharing to inform an update to the New Zealand led seabird risk assessment
2
The details of the WCPFC decision to resume observer coverage can be found at the following link: Outcomes from SS4 -
COVID-19 Intersessional Decisions | WCPFC
6 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New Zealandfor the southern hemisphere, as well as specifically for antipodean albatross.
Work with Birdlife International on the project for enhancing education on and implementation
of Ecologically Related Species seabird measures within CCSBT fisheries.
Take part in trialling an electronic CCSBT Catch Documentation Scheme and ensure
alignment with domestic systems.
Work to maintain an appropriate New Zealand allocation for high seas purse seine catch or
effort.
Engage with FFA members and WCPFC members to improve management of South
Pacific albacore across the Convention Area, including to secure an appropriate allocation
for South Pacific albacore fishing within New Zealand’s EEZ.
Advocate for the development of WCPFC harvest strategies for the four main tuna species,
including improved understanding of stock distribution.
Associated services from other teams and stakeholders
International Fisheries Management: lead input into WCPFC and the Pacific Islands Forum
Fisheries Agency (FFA); provide advice as required for CCSBT; and liaise with stakeholders
to keep them informed about international management decisions.
Science: lead input into scientific processes, provide additional scientific advice as required,
and attend relevant meetings, such as the CCSBT Extended Scientific Committee meeting
and the WCPFC Scientific Committee meeting.
Compliance: provide compliance advice as required; and attend relevant meetings.
Monitoring of international obligations and compliance on the high seas.
Data Management: ensure timely submissions of New Zealand’s fisheries data as required
under WCPFC and CCSBT deadlines.
Stakeholders: provide input into New Zealand’s negotiating positions, through stakeholder
consultation meetings and communications; participate in international meetings as part of
the New Zealand delegation (following an approval process) or as observers at meetings.
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 7KFA 3
MANAGE INTERACTIONS OF HMS FISHERIES WITH SHARKS AND
SEA TURTLES
Overview
Sharks
New Zealand’s National Plan of Action for the conservation and management of sharks 2013 (NPOA
sharks) sets out goals and objectives for the conservation and management of sharks. The long-term
objective of the plan is:
To maintain the biodiversity and the long-term viability of all New Zealand shark populations by
recognising their role in marine ecosystems, ensuring that any utilisation of sharks is sustainable, and
that New Zealand receives positive recognition internationally for its efforts in shark conservation and
management.
A review of the NPOA Sharks (2013) is currently underway by Fisheries New Zealand with the support
of the Shark Advisory Group. Seeking Ministerial approval to consult on the new NPOA Sharks 2022
is currently underway.
In 2015, New Zealand became a signatory to the Memorandum of Understanding on the Conservation
of Migratory Sharks (the MOU Sharks). The MOU is a non-legally binding instrument concluded under
Article IV of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). The
MOU Sharks operates through a triennial Meeting of the Signatories (MOS).
New Zealand will participate in the fourth meeting of signatories to the MOU Sharks in 2023. Fisheries
New Zealand will engage with tangata whenua and stakeholders when developing positions for the
fourth MOS to the CMS Sharks MOU.
Spine-tailed devil rays are protected under the Wildlife Act 1953. Fisheries New Zealand will continue
to support research to understand the changes that are being seen in New Zealand’s waters in terms
of these interactions and options for mitigation and/or safe release. Additionally, the HMS team will
continue to contribute to a research project in affiliation with the University of California, Santa Cruz
which is examining potential mobulid bycatch mitigation strategies.
Turtles
Under the Wildlife Act 1953, sea turtles are a protected species in New Zealand’s waters. The HMS
team is contributing to a research project in affiliation with the University of Florida in the United States
to better understand the changes that are being seen in New Zealand’s waters in terms of sea turtle
interactions in the surface longline fishery and determine mitigation and avoidance options.
HMS Management Initiatives
Sharks
Contribute to the development of a new NPOA Sharks 2022.
Ensure fishers are aware of regulatory requirements regarding sharks, with a focus on
reporting obligations.
Monitor shark catches using observer data, catch effort reporting, and direct feedback from
stakeholders.
Advocate for and input into Pacific-wide stock assessment for key HMS sharks.
Investigate potential developments in mitigation and avoidance.
8 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New Zealand Continue to support research around sharks and rays, including research projects regarding
protected shark interactions (including spine-tailed devil rays).
Participate in the fourth meeting of signatories to the Memorandum of Understanding on the
Conservation of Migratory Sharks 2023.
Turtles
Support research around turtle interactions and consider appropriate mitigation and
avoidance options.
Set up notifications for fishers ahead of the summer season around sea turtles and work on
fact sheets with DOC for fishers.
Amend regulations to prohibit the use of J hooks.
FNZ and DOC will ensure vessels have equipment to safely handle and unhook turtles on
board.
Associated services from other MPI teams and government agencies
International Fisheries Management: Lead WCPFC processes in relation to the conservation
and management of sharks and turtles.
Science: manage research process and provide advice on shark and turtle management
proposals.
Compliance: provide advice on any shark or turtle management proposals.
Legal: provide advice on any shark or turtle management proposals.
Stakeholders: provide input into public consultation on shark or turtle management proposals.
DOC: work on developing safe handling practices for turtles.
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 9Business as Usual (BAU) tasks
Management of HMS fisheries also includes a range of Business as Usual (BAU) tasks, as outlined
below.
BAU 1 ENGAGE WITH TANGATA WHENUA AND FISHERIES STAKEHOLDERS
Overview
Sufficient and appropriate engagement with tangata whenua and stakeholders is an essential part of
fisheries management. This objective ensures tangata whenua and stakeholders have access to
information that will allow them to assess and provide input into how HMS fisheries are managed.
The HMS team engages with tangata whenua and stakeholders through several means throughout
the year, via annual and ad hoc meetings.
The HMS team will continue to strengthen engagement with tangata whenua and ensure the
opportunity for tangata whenua to provide input and participate in the management of HMS species,
through iwi fisheries forums and engagement with Te Ohu Kaimoana. This engagement will be done
in a way that honours the principles and spirit of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
Engagement on issues related to the development of New Zealand positions at regional forums has
been highlighted as an area of particular interest by stakeholders. The HMS and the international
fisheries management teams will continue to make this engagement a particular focus.
HMS Management Initiatives
Attend relevant Iwi Fisheries Forum meetings, provide early opportunities for input and
participation of tangata whenua.
Host tangata whenua and stakeholder meetings prior to and following regional fisheries
management organisation meetings.
Engage with the Fish Plan Advisory Group through two Fish Plan Advisory Group hui.
Engage with longline vessel operators through two Longline Workshops.
Notify tangata whenua and stakeholders of public consultations related to HMS.
Continue to liaise with the Protected Species Liaison Programme.
Facilitate purse seine sector and New Zealand Sport Fishing Council meetings.
Attend annual meeting of the Tuna Management Association.
Continue to engage the recreational sector on the southern bluefin tuna fishery.
Engage with tangata whenua and stakeholders on impacts of regional management on New
Zealand fisheries.
Associated services from other MPI teams
Science: participate in meetings and workshops as required, for example, Fish Plan Advisory
Group meetings and Longline Workshops.
Observer Services: participate in meetings and workshops as required, for example, Fish
Plan Advisory Group meetings and Longline Workshops.
Compliance: participate in meetings and workshops as required, for example, Fish Plan
Advisory Group meetings and Longline Workshops.
International Fisheries Management: participate in meetings and workshops as required, for
example, Fish Plan Advisory Group meetings and Longline Workshops.
10 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandBAU 2
MONITOR COMMERCIAL FISHERIES AND ENSURE COMPLIANCE
WITH MANAGEMENT MEASURES
Overview
Monitoring and ensuring compliance of commercial HMS fisheries regulations presents many
challenges, most notably issues relating to monitoring small vessels far from land, with limited
compliance resources. Monitoring activities for commercial HMS fisheries include deploying
observers on vessels, and conducting at-sea patrols and inspections, aerial patrols, and in-port
inspections. Digital monitoring activities for the commercial HMS fleet include electronic reporting
(ER) of catch, effort, protected species captures, landing information, and electronic position reporting
(GPR).
The HMS team works with Observer Services, DOC and MPI Compliance to plan and prioritise
monitoring activities and assess information collected. Key compliance priorities for 2022/23 are
outlined in the appendix section.
For resourcing purposes, priority for observer coverage is given to new vessels entering the fishery;
vessels that were not observed the previous year; high risk areas and times for seabird interactions;
and the vessels with the highest catch quantities. This year, no observer coverage has been planned
for the albacore tuna troll fishery.
HMS Management Initiatives
With Observer Services, plan observer coverage to provide representative coverage of the
fisheries and achieve targets set by CCSBT (10% of catch and effort) and WCPFC (5% of
longline effort on the high seas) (see the Appendix for the planned coverage).
Inform Observer Services and industry of priority vessels and areas for observer coverage.
Attend observer debriefs.
Monitor compliance with management measures in commercial HMS fisheries.
Monitor catch and reporting of non-fish protected species bycatch.
Liaise with Compliance on monitoring activities and current issues.
Raise awareness on issues with tangata whenua and stakeholders.
Administer and monitor the Catch Documentation Scheme for southern bluefin tuna.
Provide education on the Catch Documentation Scheme for southern bluefin tuna to
Licenced Fish Receivers, fishers and Fisheries Trade Validators.
Report compliance outcomes in the HMS Annual Review Report.
Ensure High Seas Permits are in line with the requirements of the relevant regional
fisheries management organisations.
Associated services from other MPI teams
Observer Services: liaise with fishers to deliver planned observer coverage; liaise with
Fisheries Management, Science, and Compliance to provide feedback on observer coverage.
Science: lead improvements on observer data capture.
Compliance: monitor commercial and non-commercial HMS fisheries; and follow up on items
of interest identified through observer coverage.
International Compliance: monitor foreign flagged HMS vessels on the high seas.
International fisheries management: Coordinate with International Compliance on the
improvement of compliance monitoring processes within WCPFC and ensure High Seas
Permits are consistent with WCPFC requirements.
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 11BAU 3 MĀORI RIGHTS AND INTERESTS IN HMS FISHERIES
Overview
Customary fishing (commercial and non-commercial)
Customary fishing rights (commercial and non-commercial) are guaranteed to tangata whenua under
Article 2 of Te Tiriti o Waitangi – the Treaty of Waitangi. These rights were then confirmed through
the 1992 Fisheries Deed of Settlement, Treaty of Waitangi (Fisheries Claims) Settlement Act 1992
and the Fisheries Act 1996. The Deed of Settlement 1992 separated customary fishing rights into
commercial and non-commercial.
The HMS team will, to the best of their ability, provide the opportunity for tangata whenua to input into
and participate in the management of HMS species.
Given the highly migratory nature of these species, HMS species within the QMS are managed both
domestically and regionally. Settlement Quota for HMS has been allocated to Mandated Iwi
Organisations in accordance with the percentages specified in column 3 of Schedule 3 of the Māori
Fisheries Act 2004.
Customary reporting of certain HMS species can be achieved through the use of customary permits
as set out under the Fisheries (Kaimoana Customary Fishing) Regulations 1999, the South Island
Customary Fishing Regulations 1999 and other specific regulations that relate to Deeds of Settlement
for particular iwi.
To date, records provided by voluntary returns indicate a customary permit was last used for HMS
species in 2001. It is thought that this largely reflects the fact that customary needs are able to be
met using recreational fishing provisions. This may change with recent changes to the southern
bluefin tuna recreational rules.
HMS Management Initiatives
Take into account and recognise tangata whenua interests when making fisheries
management decisions.
Provide for input and participation of tangata whenua in the management of HMS species.
Improve input and participation of tangata whenua in HMS fisheries through attendance at
relevant iwi forum meetings.
Continue to engage with Te Ohu Kaimoana representatives on customary (commercial and
non-commercial) interests.
Support Māori interests and aspirations, both commercial and non-commercial, in HMS
fisheries.
Understand and identify which iwi groups own commercial settlement quota for HMS species,
ensure these groups are provided the opportunity for input and participation in HMS fisheries
management decisions.
Recognise Māori interests in recreational HMS fisheries.
Work with the Customary Fisheries team to see how to support kaitiaki to do their own
research projects on customary (commercial and non-commercial) fisheries management on
HMS species, where relevant.
12 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandAssociated services from other MPI teams
Customary team: support HMS team with engagement with iwi as required.
Treaty Analysis and Capacity team: support HMS team with engagement with iwi as required
Science: lead on HMS-related science for customary effort.
Legal: provide advice on any HMS-relevant management proposals.
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 13BAU 4 STRENGTHEN MANAGEMENT OF RECREATIONAL HMS FISHERIES
Overview
Recreational fishing
The HMS team is responsible for monitoring and managing recreational tuna and billfish game
fisheries, as well as consulting and engaging with recreational fishers.
Recreational fisheries are monitored in a variety of ways. Amateur Charter Vessels are subject to
compulsory registration, activity reporting, and catch reporting for specified stocks, including southern
and Pacific bluefin tunas. Monitoring also occurs through voluntary reporting, including through the
gamefish tagging programme, landed catch records from New Zealand Sport Fishing Council clubs,
and targeted logbook schemes.
Southern bluefin tuna
The recreational allowance for southern bluefin tuna was increased in 1 October 2021 from twenty
tonnes to 34 tonnes, and a bag limit has been introduced of one fish per person per day. Prior to
2017, recreational catches of southern bluefin tuna are likely to have been rare because of the
locations and time of year during which southern bluefin tuna were found in New Zealand waters
(generally winter months and areas with little recreational fishing).
In 2017, recreational catch was estimated at much higher levels than those previously seen in this
fishery, particularly around the East Cape. Recreational fishing effort targeting southern bluefin tuna
increased which was likely due, in part, to favourable weather conditions, good catch rates, social
media posts and the proximity of fish to the shore that year. The recreational interest in this fishery
has continued to grow and the increase in catch in recent years can largely be attributed to an
increased number of fishers and increased availability.
Fisheries New Zealand will continue to engage with stakeholders on ways to improve information and
management of the recreational southern bluefin tuna fishery.
HMS Management Initiatives
Have regard to recreational interests when making fisheries management decisions and
identify the economic and inherent value of game fisheries to New Zealand.
Monitor trends using landed catch from New Zealand Sports Fishing Council records, tag and
release data from the gamefish tagging database, information from charter vessel reporting,
and catch per unit effort from logbook schemes.
Participate in the Marine Amateur Fishing Working Group.
Improve information on southern bluefin tuna catch through research projects and
engagement with the recreational sector.
Facilitate discussion between commercial and non-commercial fishery stakeholders.
Associated services from other MPI teams
Compliance: monitor compliance with the daily bag limit requirement for the southern bluefin
tuna and amateur charter vessel reporting obligations.
Science: lead on HMS-related science for recreational fishing.
Data Management: collect and analyse recreational and Amateur Charter Vessel data as
needed.
Legal: provide advice on any HMS-relevant management proposals.
14 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandBAU 5
CONTRIBUTE TO THE MPI PACIFIC FISHERIES CAPACITY
DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME, TE PĀTUITANGA AHUMOANA A KIWA
Overview
MPI’s Pacific fisheries capacity development programme, Te Pātuitanga Ahu Moana a Kiwa (Te
Pātui), develops and delivers assistance and fisheries advice to Pacific fisheries administrations.
The programme was established by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MPI and the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT) in 2011. The MoU was renewed in 2014 and 2019. The
current programme runs from 2019 to 2024.
The HMS team is responsible for delivering fisheries management assistance and programming
under Te Pātui, delivering programme objectives including:
• Improved fisheries management, legal and policy frameworks in Pacific fisheries
administrations;
• Pacific fisheries administrations are staffed by personnel with the requisite knowledge and
skills to carry out their roles; and
Strengthened relationships and cooperation between New Zealand and Pacific Island countries’
fisheries agencies that complement existing fisheries support in the region. The HMS team delivers
these objectives by drawing on a wide range of MPI and Fisheries New Zealand fisheries expertise,
and by maintaining strategic relationships with, for example, the Pacific Community (SPC) and Pacific
Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). These regional relationships are intended to ensure a
coordinated and targeted approach to the provision of capacity building resources across Pacific
Island countries.
The impact of COVID-19 on the economies of Pacific Island Countries and territories (PICTs)
continues to be significant. There has been an increase in pressure on fisheries, since tourism, as
the main contributor to countries’ GDP’s, has yet to be reinstated across the region.
While international travel restrictions due to COVID-19 still impact the team’s delivery modes, in-
person engagement will cautiously resume where possible. The Te Pātui Programme priority areas
will focus on:
• Continued suspension of in-person training until international borders re-open;
• Ongoing use of electronic platforms for engagement and delivery; and
• Monitoring new modes of delivery and realigning if current priority areas require.
• Promoting training, advice and mentoring of Pacific Fisheries staff to use science and data
for decision making, with particular emphasis on coastal fisheries management.
• Assessing fisheries management options, and improving management of impacts to the
environment e.g. supporting development of NPOAs.
HMS Management Initiatives
Work with New Zealand agencies to align Pacific projects focussed on training, knowledge
exchange, and building capability.
Engage with SPC and FFA to enable coordinated delivery of programming.
Implement and maintain e-learning tools (programming and materials) focussed initially on
fisheries management fundamentals. Deliver a scale of training to include all levels and roles
in the fisheries administration.
Scope and deliver remote fisheries management support to Pacific Island countries including
Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
Provide advice and support to Pacific Island countries relating to offshore and coastal
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 15fisheries management planning, policy, cost recovery, and governance systems.
Associated services from other MPI teams and government agencies
Learning and Development: provide direction and support for implementing fisheries
management e-learning tools.
Science: provide science advice on Pacific fisheries.
Compliance: deliver fisheries monitoring, control, and surveillance capacity development
support to Pacific Island countries.
International Fisheries Management: coordinate implementation of Te Pātui.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade: monitor and engage on Te Pātui implementation.
16 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandBAU 6 DEVELOP AND IMPLEMENT THE HMS RESEARCH PLAN
Overview
Research for HMS species is largely undertaken regionally, with domestic projects often supporting
outcomes for regional research and management. Research projects planned to begin or continue in
2022/23 are outlined in detail in the appendix at the end of this document.
There are also other research projects planned and already underway that are relevant to the HMS
team. However, these are administered under different works streams or different departments, for
example under the Department of Conservation’s Conservation Services Program.
HMS Management Initiatives
Identify research needs for HMS fisheries.
Input into regional research priority setting.
Review proposed HMS research projects.
Participate in the research planning process.
Finalise and agree to the HMS Research Plan, including any proposals for industry-led
research.
Monitor 2022/23 research projects to ensure delivery remains on track to provide results
that will support fisheries management.
Associated services from other teams and stakeholders
Science: lead the research and assessment processes, including working group meetings.
Contracts Management: manage HMS research contracts.
Stakeholders: participate in HMS working group meetings to review progress and results of
HMS research projects.
Fisheries New Zealand Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 17Work plan for the HMS team for 2022/23
KFA 1 Manage interactions of HMS fisheries with seabirds
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Prioritising monitoring of seabird • Provide information on seabird related issues to • Contribute to the NPOA-Seabirds Annual • Provide information on seabird related issues to
mitigation during Operation Nasse tangata whenua and stakeholders through the Review Report. tangata whenua and stakeholders through the
(regional monitoring control and Longline Workshop and Fish Plan Advisory Longline Workshop and Fish Plan Advisory
surveillance operation on high seas). Group. Group.
• Raise awareness of seabird issues with • Raise awareness on seabird issues with
tangata whenua, fisheries stakeholders and tangata whenua, fisheries stakeholders and
international of stakeholders. international of stakeholders.
• Monitor seabird captures and seabird proxy • Monitor seabird captures and seabird proxy
measures using observer data and fisher measures using observer data and fisher
reporting. reporting.
• Continue to seek improvements to data
acquisition and data sharing on bycatch
species across regional fisheries management
organisations.
ALL QUARTERS
• Implement the National Plan of Action for Seabirds initiatives for HMS.
• Monitor compliance with seabird mitigation measures and the use of voluntary mitigation practices.
• Liaise with the Protected Species Liaison Programme.
• Support industry initiatives.
• Contribute to the development of a mitigation standard review process to determine whether current seabird mitigation standards are effective and their potential wider environmental impacts.
• Support research to determine options to improve seabird mitigation practices.
• Use the existing Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade and Ministry for Primary Industries to help Small Island Developing States manage seabird interactions.
KFA 2 Contribute to international processes through regional fisheries management organisations
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Attend annual meetings of CCSBT and • Attend annual meetings of the CCSBT and • Attend Ecologically Related Species working
WCPFC (which may be virtual). WCPFC (which may be virtual). group meetings of the CCSBT (tentatively
• Compile reports, ad-hoc papers, and • Compile reports, ad-hoc papers, and agreed).
negotiation briefs ahead of annual meetings negotiation brief ahead of annual meetings of
of CCSBT. CCSBT.
• Lead New Zealand input to intersessional • Lead New Zealand input to intersessional
processes of CCSBT to further develop processes of CCSBT to further develop
compliance assessment tools and processes. compliance assessment tools and processes.
• Advocate for the development of WCPFC • Advocate for the development of WCPFC
harvest strategies for the four main tuna harvest strategies for the four main tuna species,
species, including improved understanding of including improved understanding of stock
stock distribution. distribution.
• Work collaboratively with Japan on initiatives • Work collaboratively with Japan on initiatives to
to reduce seabird bycatch, most notably in reduce seabird bycatch, most notably in areas of
areas of data sharing to inform an update to data sharing to inform an update to the New
the New Zealand led seabird risk assessment. Zealand led seabird risk assessment.
ALL QUARTERS
18 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New Zealand• Arrange tangata whenua stakeholder meetings before and after meetings of CCSBT and WCPFC.
• Engage tangata whenua and stakeholders on proposals and development of New Zealand positions for CCSBT and WCPFC.
• Uphold reporting obligations, develop ad-hoc papers, and negotiation brief ahead of annual meetings of CCSBT.
• Take part in trialling an electronic CCSBT Catch Documentation Scheme and ensure alignment with domestic systems.
• Work with Birdlife International on the project for enhancing education on and implementation of Ecologically Related Species seabird measures within CCSBT fisheries.
• Engage with FFA members and WCPFC members to improve management of South Pacific albacore across the Convention Area, including to secure an appropriate allocation for South Pacific albacore fishing
within New Zealand’s EEZ.
• Work to maintain an appropriate New Zealand allocation for high seas purse seine catch or effort.
KFA 3 Manage interactions of HMS fisheries with sharks and sea turtles
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Setting up notifications for fishers ahead • Setting up notifications for fishers ahead of the • Participate in fourth meeting of signatories to • Investigate potential developments in
of the summer season around sea turtles summer season around sea turtles and the Memorandum of Understanding on the mitigation and avoidance.
and working on fact sheets with DOC for working on fact sheets with DOC for fishers. Conservation of Migratory Sharks.
fishers. • Investigate great white shark captures as • Investigate potential developments in
• Investigate potential developments in bycatch in recreational fisheries. mitigation and avoidance.
mitigation and avoidance. • Investigate potential developments in
mitigation and avoidance.
ALL QUARTERS
• Monitor shark catches using observer data, catch effort reporting, and direct feedback from stakeholders.
• Contribute to the development of the updated NPOA sharks 2022
• Advocate for and input into Pacific-wide stock assessment for key HMS sharks.
• Ensure fishers are aware of regulatory requirements.
• Ensure vessels have equipment to safely handle and unhook turtles on board.
• Continue to support research around turtle interactions and determine appropiate mitigation and avoidance options.
Ministry for Primary Industries Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 19BAU 1 Engage tangata whenua and fishery stakeholders
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Contribute to the Antipodean Albatross • Engage with FPAG and longline operators. • Contribute to the Antipodean Albatross • Engage with FPAG and longline operators.
Working Group. • Engage with the recreational sector on the Working Group. • Facilitate meetings between the commercial
• Engagement with tangata whenua and southern bluefin tuna fishery. • Facilitate meetings between the commercial purse seine sector and the New Zealand
stakeholders ahead of regional fisheries • Arrange earlier and more frequent purse seine sector and the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council.
management organisations meetings. engagement with tangata whenua and Sport Fishing Council. • Engagement with tangata whenua and
stakeholders ahead of regional fisheries stakeholders ahead of regional fisheries
management organisations meetings. management organisations meetings.
• Attend the Tuna Management Association
Annual General Meeting.
• Facilitate meetings between the commercial
purse seine sector and the New Zealand Sport
Fishing Council.
ALL QUARTERS
• Engage with stakeholders on impacts of regional management on New Zealand fisheries.
• Provide input into the Fisheries New Zealand newsletter.
• Provide for early opportunities for tangata whenua to have input and participate in the development of proposals where their interests are affected.
• Liaise with Protected Species Liaison Programme officers.
• Use social media to engage with tangata whenua, stakeholders, and the general public.
• Conduct statutory consultation as required under the Fisheries Act 1996, for changes to sustainability or regulatory measures, and inform tangata whenua, stakeholders and the recreational sector when relevant
consultation papers have been released.
• Ensure that the National Fisheries Plan for HMS Fisheries, Annual Operational Plans, and Annual Review Reports are available on the Fisheries New Zealand website.
BAU 2 Monitor commercial HMS fisheries and ensure compliance with management measures
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Inform Observer Services and industry of • Plan observer coverage to provide • Inform Observer Services and industry of
priority vessels and areas for observer representative coverage of the fisheries and priority vessels and areas for observer
coverage. achieve targets set by CCSBT and WCPFC. coverage.
• Raise awareness on issues with tangata • Report compliance outcomes in the HMS • Raise awareness on issues with tangata
whenua and stakeholders. Annual Review Report. whenua and stakeholders.
• Ensure High Seas Permits are in line with the
requirements of the relevant regional fisheries
management organisations.
ALL QUARTERS
• Attend observer debriefs.
• Monitor compliance with management measures in commercial HMS fisheries.
• Monitor catch and reporting of non-fish protected species bycatch.
• Liaise with Compliance on monitoring activities and current issues.
• Administer and monitor the Catch Documentation Scheme for southern bluefin tuna.
• Provide education on the Catch Documentation Scheme for southern bluefin tuna to Licence fish receivers, fishers and fisheries trade validators.
20 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandBAU 3 Māori rights and interests in HMS fisheries
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Work with the Customary Fisheries • Work with the Customary Fisheries
team to see how to support kaitiaki team to see how to support kaitiaki
to do their own research projects to do their own research projects
on customary (commercial and on customary (commercial and
non-commercial) fisheries non-commercial) fisheries
management on HMS species, management on HMS species,
where relevant. where relevant.
ALL QUARTERS
• Provide for input and participation of tangata whenua in the management of HMS species.
• Provide any relevent updates through Iwi Forums.
• Take into account and recognise tangata whenua interests when making fisheries management decisions.
• Support Māori interests and aspirations, both commercial and non-commercial, in HMS fisheries.
• Understand and identify which iwi groups own commercial settlement quota for HMS species, ensure these groups are provided the opportunity for input and participation in HMS fisheries management decisions.
• Recognise Māori interests in recreational HMS fisheries.
• Continue to engage with Te Ohu Kaimoana representatives on customary (commercial and non-commercial) interests.
BAU 4 • Strengthen management of recreational HMS fisheries
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Moniter the customary and recreational • Facilitate discussion between commercial and • Review management of striped marlin if catch • Facilitate discussion between commercial and
southern bluefin tuna fishery. non-commercial fishery stakeholders. per unit effort drops below the long-term mean non-commercial fishery stakeholders.
• Participate in the Marine Amateur Fishing • Support stakeholders to continually build and for four consecutive years. • Moniter the customary and recreational
Working Group. foster improved relationships between southern bluefin tuna fishery.
• Improve information on southern bluefin tuna recreational and commercial HMS fishers.
catch through engagement with recreational • Improve information on southern bluefin tuna
sector. catch through engagement with recreational
sector.
ALL QUARTERS
• Have regard to recreational interests when making fisheries management decisions and identify the economic and inherent value of game fisheries to New Zealand.
• Liaise with Compliance on the southern bluefin tuna recreational fishery.
• Monitor trends using landed catch from NZSFC records, tag and release data from the gamefish tagging database, information from charter vessel reporting, and catch per unit effort from logbook schemes.
• Support stakeholders to develop a strategy to continually build and foster improved relationships between recreational and commercial HMS fishers.
• Explore longer term recreational management measures for the southern bluefin tuna fishery.
Ministry for Primary Industries Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 21BAU 5 Contribute to the MPI Pacific fisheries capacity development programme, Te Pātuitanga Ahumoana a Kiwa
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Implement e-learning course on fisheries • Implement e-learning course on fisheries • Implement e-learning course on fisheries • Implement e-learning course on fisheries
management fundamentals. management fundamentals management fundamentals management fundamentals
• Scope and deliver fisheries management • Deliver fisheries management capacity • Deliver fisheries management capacity • Deliver fisheries management capacity
capacity development assistance to development assistance to Pacific Island development assistance to Pacific Island development assistance to Pacific Island
Pacific Island countries including Cook countries including Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, countries including Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa, countries including Cook Islands, Fiji, Samoa,
Islands, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, and Tuvalu Tonga, and Tuvalu Maintain collaborative Tonga, and Tuvalu Tonga, and Tuvalu
• Maintain collaborative engagement with engagement with regional organisations (SPC • Maintain collaborative engagement with • Maintain collaborative engagement with
regional organisations (SPC and FFA) and FFA) for capacity development activities. regional organisations (SPC and FFA) for regional organisations (SPC and FFA) for
for capacity development activities. capacity development activities. capacity development activities.
• Report back to MFAT on prior year and
develop upcoming annual workplan.
ALL QUARTERS
• Engage with SPC and FFA to enable coordinated delivery of programming
• Provide advice and support to Pacific Island countries relating to offshore and coastal fisheries management.
• Work with New Zealand agencies to align Pacific projects focussed on training, knowledge exchange, and building capability.
• Ongoing administration of eLearning modules.
BAU 6 Develop and implement HMS Research Plan
Q1 (JUL-SEP) Q2 (OCT-DEC) Q3 (JAN-MAR) Q4 (APR-JUN)
• Attend relevant research project updates. • Attend relevant research project updates. • Identify research needs for HMS fisheries. • Identify research needs for HMS fisheries.
• Review proposed research projects. • Review proposed research projects.
• Participate in the research planning process • Participate in the research planning process
as required. as required.
• Finalise and agree to the HMS Research
Plan, including any proposals for industry-led
research.
ALL QUARTERS
• Monitor 2021/22 research projects to ensure delivery remains on track to provide results that will support fisheries management.
22 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandAppendix
PLANNED OBSERVER DAYS FOR HMS FISHERIES FOR 2022/23
HMS observer days are allocated to reflect the effort in the identified fishery groupings. The table below reflects the proportion of observer coverage in each target fleet.
Observer days were allocated according to the days available for those target fisheries to achieve at least 10 % coverage for surface longline fisheries, and the days
then allocated to each month proportionally.
JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN TOTAL DAYS
Tuna longline out of zone – WCPFC 5 5 10
Bigeye/swordfish surface longline North Island 5 5 5 5 5 5 15 15 20 20 15 5 120
Bigeye/swordfish surface longline South Island 5 5 10 5 25
Southern bluefin tuna surface longline North Island 40 35 5 5 5 5 15 40 150
Southern bluefin tuna surface longline South Island 20 15 5 10 5 10 20 25 20 20 150
Skipjack tuna, jack mackerel, blue mackerel purse seine fisheries 20 40 20 50 130
TOTAL HMS 575
Ministry for Primary Industries Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 • 23HMS COMPLIANCE PRIORITIES FOR 2022/23
Outcome Specific Priorities
• Aerial patrols are conducted
Integrity of the New Zealand Exclusive Economic Zone is • At-sea patrols are conducted
maintained • Breaches are followed-up
• In port inspections (of both domestic and FFV authorised to land under s113 of FA 96)
Compliance with regional fisheries management organisations • High seas permits are in line with CCSBT and WCPFC requirements
measures • Fishers are compliant with high seas permits
• Routine monitored unloads and inspections are conducted
• Routine inspections of Licenced Fish Receivers and monitoring of LFR weigh in processes
Compliance with the CCSBT Catch Documentation Scheme
• Fishers and Licenced Fish Receivers are compliant with the CCBST Catch Documentation
Scheme
• Fishers are compliant with tori line requirements
• Fishers are compliant with using two out of three mitigation measures (tori lines being one
of those):
Surface longline fishery compliance with seabird mitigation
1. Tori lines and night setting
regulations
2. Tori lines and line weighting
• Line weighting is used according to the specifications
• If used, hook shielding devices are on every hook
• Fishers accurately report non-fish and protected species bycatch
Compliance with protected species rules
• Compliance assess and follow-up inaccurate reporting where necessary
• Fishers are compliant with landing of sharks and fins in the required ratios
Accurate reporting of shark catches
• Fishers are compliant with reporting of 6th Schedule releases and dead returns of sharks
• Report on seabird mitigation on vessels boarded as part of Operation Nasse (especially for
those vessels that have been fishing south of 25 degrees south)
• Inspect mitigation present on pelagic longline vessels during port inspections (especially for
High seas compliance
those vessels that have been fishing south of 25 degrees south)
• Aerial patrols are conducted of vessels fishing south of 25 degrees south to detect the use
of tori lines when vessels are day setting
24 • Annual Operational Plan for HMS and Pacific fisheries 2022/23 Fisheries New ZealandYou can also read
