NZ fisheries 'in good shape compared to Australia'

After six months as chief executive of the Fisheries Ministry, Australian John Glaister declared himself impressed with the state of fisheries in New Zealand.

"I'm still coming to grips with the size of the resources and how effective the management processes are here compared to Australia," he said.

Dr Glaister said Australia and New Zealand's approach to fisheries management were like "chalk and cheese".

"The schemes that are in place allow a very transparent look at how things are going. The fact we've had decline in some species ... and subsequent stock rebuilding is quite a novel thing."

"All in all stocks are in pretty good shape compared to Australia and other places."

When Dr Glaister first took the role, he said his main aims during his tenure were to create more dialogue with commercial, recreational and iwi interests.

His approach seems to be paying results, with some members of the fishing industry commenting that Dr Glaister has so far been good at listening and taking on board the issues facing the industry.

High praise indeed when it is considered fishermen aren't known for their love of bureaucrats.

"There's been a positive response about the ministry taking a more active role in the industry," Dr Glaister said.

In its statement of intent for coming years the ministry has said it wants to bout talking more to commercial, recreational and customary interests. "People are cautious and there is the element of a honeymoon period there, but the feeling I've got is positive."

Collaboration is coming in areas like aquaculture, with a working group of industry players looking to get a sector strategy up and running with the help of the ministry.

Since the start of the year, nine relationship managers have been appointed to govern the interaction with iwi, following the passing of the Maori Fisheries Bill which settled Treaty of Waitangi claims last year.

Another thing which has caught his eye is the efforts being made by the industry to address environmental concerns, which he views as a forward step.

"People are genuinely concerned about making sure the environment isn't damaged beyond repair because everyone understands that the marine resources ultimately depend on a healthy environment."

- nzpa