A fishery is an organized effort to catch fish or other aquatic species. Most fisheries are based at sea rather than in fresh water. Fisheries science is the study of managing and understanding fisheries.

Aquaculture is the aquatic equivalent of agriculture - the production of aquatic species in land or sea based 'farms'. Aquaculture in New Zealand has undergone a huge expansion and now production of seacage salmon and greenlip mussels is a big part of our seafood industry.

Fishing and fisheries are very important to New Zealand because of our fascination with the sea, and the importance of the ocean for food and trade. As fish stocks decline, aquaculture is an industry of growing importance to New Zealand. Our extensive coast line, much of it with sheltered bays and inlets, and our unpolluted water make this country particularly suited to seafood production from aquaculture.

Career opportunities

With a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAppSc) degree in Aquaculture and Fisheries you will be well placed to work in a variety of positions within the industry. You could join the Ministry of Fisheries, which is responsible for managing our fish stocks, or join one of the many companies who catch the fish we eat or export. Some of these same companies are also involved in the culture of fish or shellfish and the growth of these to a marketable size. You may help develop new products from fish or shellfish. Alternatively, you might join a science team for a regional council to help make local decisions on which coastal areas might be used for aquaculture, and how best to environmentally manage these areas. If you wish to stay at University to learn more about aquaculture and fisheries science, or marketing and management of products, you could complete an MSc or PhD, opening up wider job opportunities in a more senior scientist or management position.