Since people first made landfall on New Zealand the marine environment has supported our culture, economy and recreation. New Zealand has always been at the forefront in developing innovative ways of managing, catching, growing and processing marine species such as fish and shellfish. As human populations increase, better fisheries management and unlocking the potential of aquaculture loom as key issues globally. New Zealand is one of the few countries in the world that still possesses a productive wild capture fishery and our extensive coastline make this country particularly suited to seafood production from aquaculture.

With a BAppSc in Aquaculture and Fisheries you’ll be well placed to work in a variety of positions within the industry, government and other organisations interested in the marine environment. You could join the Ministry for Primary Industries who have the role of 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 sustainably managing fisheries and aquaculture, and in protecting the marine environment that these industries rely on. If you wish to continue studying and learn more about aquaculture and fisheries science or marketing and management of products, you could complete an Masters or PhD opening up wider job opportunities in a more senior scientific or management position.