Aquaculture

NIWA’s team of leading scientists and world-class facilities are dedicated to supporting the sustainable growth, diversification and future-proofing of New Zealand’s aquaculture industry.

Before fish Alvin Setiawan studied weta and penguins. These days he’s never far from the kingfish tanks at NIWA’s Northland Marine Research Centre at Bream Bay.

A giant squid and several glow-in-the-dark sharks were surprise finds for NIWA scientists last month on the Chatham Rise during a voyage to survey hoki, New Zealand’s most valuable commercial fish species.

Research shows how fish are being affected by microplastics.

Based at Bream Bay, Whangarei, Crispin Middleton is also an acclaimed underwater photographer and the recipient of numerous photography awards. His work regularly appears in New Zealand Geographic, dive magazines, scientific journals and conservation/ government documents.

Concrete structures key to restoring the paua population wiped out by earthquake.

NIWA's seafood sector work comprises our fish, fisheries and aquaculture research and consultancy.

The seafood counter at your local supermarket has changed.

A handful of species we work on

How can we help you?

Shellfish gathering and farming take place in marine and freshwater environments.

What are the potential sources of chemical contamination from aquaculture activities?