Views of the Mitre Peak at The Milford Sound, Southland, New Zealand
Adobe Stock
The regional development agency of Southland, Great South, has launched a collaborative plan to develop and fully harness the aquaculture potential of the region, located at the southernmost tip of New Zealand, on the South Island of the country.
To achieve this, Great South has brought together iwi (indigenous communities), councils, industry, government agencies, and community voices to protect the environment and uphold the aspirations of the entire region.
The Murihiku Southland Aquaculture Pathway, which was presented at an event attended by Minister Hon Mark Patterson, outlines realistic goals ranging from investment and infrastructure to workforce development, research, and regulation.
"Aquaculture presents one of the most exciting opportunities for Southland's future. The Pathway reflects the voices of Iwi, industry, councils, and our community. By working together, we can ensure this growth is sustainable, inclusive, and delivers real value for Southlanders," Great South Chief Executive Chami Abeysinghe.
Southland has the longest coastline in the country and generates $272 million annually from fishing and aquaculture, employing over 500 people. The region is expected to expand into salmon, seaweed, pāua (abalone), and whitebait farming.
Furthermore, aquaculture is expected to become a billion-dollar industry within the next two decades, creating hundreds of new jobs and diversifying the regional economy.
Great South was established as the Southland Regional Development Agency in March 2019. Committed to driving economic, social, and cultural growth, Great South has a clear mandate to leverage opportunities for Southland in the areas of economic and business development, tourism, and events.
It manages the two regional tourism organisations within Murihiku Southland, as well as the central government's Regional Business Partner network, and delivers a range of events, regional initiatives, and government-funded contracts. Great South also owns Space Operations New Zealand Limited.
