Operating in the commercial fishing sector
The links and information in this section will help you learn about and access the main Maritime Rules and Maritime NZ guidance for operating as a commercial fisher in New Zealand.
Before setting up an operation in the commercial fishing sector, or if you have any questions about a current operation, contact Maritime NZ.
Roles and responsibilities of Maritime NZ and other agencies for commercial fishing
The regulation of commercial fishing involves multiple agencies, each with specific roles in regulation, management, and industry support.
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Area of responsibility |
Agencies and useful links |
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Health and Safety for Workers and other water users |
WorkSafe (where not related to vessels or vessels as a workplace) |
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Vessel safety including crewing and safety systems |
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Sustainability of fish stocks |
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Environmental Regulation & Planning including consents |
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Māori Fishing Interests |
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Biosecurity & Food Safety |
Ministry for Primary Industries: |
Maritime Rules and requirements for commercial fishing operations
Maritime NZ oversees the safety of vessels, including safe crewing.
Fishing vessels operating in New Zealand must comply with specific Maritime Rules covering:
- design and equipment
- crewing and watchkeeping
- collision prevention
- load lines
- navigation.
As a commercial fishing operator:
- all vessels you use must be operated under an approved maritime safety system – generally for fishing vessels this will be the Maritime Operator Safety System (MOSS) or a Safe Operational Plan (SOP) for smaller fishing vessels
- all skippers, and sometimes crew, must hold the appropriate seafarer certificate(s) required to operate the ship; in the area it operates
- you need a valid Certificate of Survey (CoS) to confirm your vessel meets the rules, is appropriate for your operation and has the required safety equipment. A Recognised Surveyor will check your vessel and provide the CoS. You can also check vessel requirements with a Recognised Surveyor before purchasing a vessel
- you need to ensure your vessel has adequate crew to operate safely, including ensuring the crews skills and experience are appropriate.
Safe Operational Plans and MTOPs
Depending on the size of your vessel and operation, you will require a Safe Operational Plan (SOP) or a Maritime Transport Operator Plan (MTOP) under the Maritime Operator Safety System (MOSS).
- Fishing vessels 6 metres or less operating within enclosed limits or within 2 miles of the New Zealand coast will generally need an approved Safe Operational Plan.
- Larger fishing vessels, or those operating beyond these limits, will generally require a MTOP.
If you are unsure what requirements apply to you, or if you have any questions about a current operation, we recommend talking to your local Maritime NZ Maritime Officer.
As an operator, you must:
- confirm whether your vessel requires an SOP or an MTOP, based on vessel size and operating area
- make sure your SOP or MTOP:
- reflects all relevant Maritime Rules requirements
- addresses key risks in your operation
- includes appropriate procedures, equipment, and training for skippers and crew.
- keep your operation and vessel in good working order so you continue to meet the requirements of the Maritime Rules at all times.