Wellington Kaimoana hub aerial view
Moana New Zealand
New Zealand's Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, Shane Jones, has confirmed that the new seafood processing factory in Porirua, north of Wellington, will contribute to export benefits, jobs, and community development.
The Wellington Kaimoana Hub is a 4,500m² facility built by Māori fishing companies Moana New Zealand and Port Nicholson Fisheries. The Hub is the largest Port Nicholson Fisheries facility and Moana’s second-largest.
"The sector’s continued success in the face of tough weather events and geopolitical issues is a testament to the people who work hard every day to sustainably collect and process this valuable resource," Jones alerted.
Kaimoana food is becoming increasingly popular, and the demand for high-quality products is more evident than ever. The new site will produce tāmure (snapper), puru puru (blue cod), kōura (lobster), and pāua tūwā (wild abalone).
Regarding this project, Moana Board Chair Rachel Taulelei detailed: "The investment by Moana and Port Nicholson Fisheries of AUS $16.5 million was made with our people's future in commercial fisheries in mind."
Also, CEO Moana New Zealand Steve Tarrant added: "Working with local and regional fishers, businesses, and communities whilst investing in infrastructure ensures we continue to add value for our Iwi owners."
In 2023, Moana New Zealand acquired all of Sanford Limited’s North Island inshore annual catch entitlements (ACE), which allowed the company to increase its total allowable commercial catch by 50%.
Finally, the Minister stated: "I congratulate Moana New Zealand and Port Nicholson Fisheries for their work together that has resulted in this outstanding facility and the many benefits it will bring."