Investment in New Zealand aquaculture

Regional Development Minister Shane Jones has announced funding from the Kānoa regional infrastructure fund for activities in the Kaipara Harbour. The funds are aimed at establishing infrastructure for the temporary relocation and natural cleansing of oysters from Mahurangi farms, whose operations are periodically suspended due to wastewater issues. In particular, disruptions were recorded in October 2025, when approximately 1,200 cubic meters of wastewater entered the harbour due to an electrical equipment failure.

The project includes the establishment of a 6-hectare oyster relay site for Mahurangi farmers, as well as the creation of a 3-hectare pilot oyster farm for the Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust. As part of the partnership, Mahurangi oyster producers are sharing their skills and practical experience with iwi representatives, which helps develop their capacity in aquaculture.

Mahurangi Oyster Farmers Association President Lynette Dunn noted that the initiative increases business certainty under the pressure facing Mahurangi. Settlement Trust leader Rhys Manukau emphasized that the project lays the foundation for future commercial opportunities and employment. Aquaculture New Zealand Chief Executive Tee Hale Pennington called the investment an important contribution to the industry's sustainability, noting that Mahurangi farmers produce about a quarter of New Zealand's oysters.