New Zealand partnership to deepen aquaculture solutions based on seaweed

The University of Waikato in New Zealand has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with AgriSea, a Māori-owned family seaweed business, to develop seaweed-based innovations and work on environmental restoration.

AgriSea and the University’s macroalgal technologies team, led by Professor Marie Magnusson, had previously collaborated through the Entrepreneurial Universities initiative—a joint investment by the Tertiary Education Commission and the University—aimed at promoting innovation in the marine sector.

Also, they took part in a project that utilized native seaweed to reduce excess nutrients from the Waihou River estuary in the Waikato region, on the North Island of New Zealand, funded by the Ministry for Primary Industries' Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures fund.

Regarding this relationship, Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research at the University of Waikato, Gary Wilson, said: "The University is focused on increasing its impact partnerships throughout the region. This is a great example of the University working closely with an impact partner to deliver better outcomes."

Additionally, the Chief Executive of AgriSea, Clare Bradley, expressed: "We're proud to formalise this partnership with the University of Waikato. AgriSea has been commercialising seaweed products for nearly 30 years – delivering practical, science-backed solutions to farmers and growers. Together, we're unlocking innovation, building robust supply chains, and enhancing the value of native seaweeds to create lasting benefits for our communities, our economy, and the environment."

Finally, both organisations anticipate further collaboration arising from the research conducted by Professor Chris Battershill, Director of the University’s Coastal Marine Field Station in Tauranga, on how to combat resistance to herbicides, pesticides, and pharmaceuticals using marine-derived compounds.