The New Zealand Aquaculture Conference marked a change in focus for the industry, as it moves into a new era of sustainable growth.
Aquaculture New Zealand CEO Mike Burrell said the high-calibre of speakers during the two-day event in Nelson highlighted a shift from law reform to investment and innovation.
“We had Prime Minister John Key, Aquaculture Minister Phil Heatley, leaders from business, government, councils, iwi, the science sector, the education sector, the legal professions, chefs, international guests and celebrities all say the same thing:
“This is a great time to be in the aquaculture industry. We like you. We love your food. Go for it!”
“We are now five years into the sector’s 20-year strategy and we’ve come a long way in that time. We have a new law, in-market collaboration, new private and public investment in R & D and marketing and strong partnerships.
Mr Burrell said the 300 delegates heard that with the new law now in place, the sector was exploring opportunities for growth.
“I am excited to hear about new applications for marine space – we haven’t had that in a decade,” he said.
“However this is only the beginning and the focus of the sector now changes.
“Over the next five years the focus shifts to investment in new developments, accelerating investment in R & D and marketing, and to attracting and holding the best and brightest people from New Zealand and around the world.”