19 Mar 2009

NZ fisheries overseen by 8000 regulations

5:23 am on 19 March 2009

A report into New Zealand fisheries by PricewaterhouseCoopers says the sector must overcome conflict and bureaucracy.

It says New Zealand fisheries are governed by 8000 regulations.

The Seafood Industry Council acknowledges the "varied level of responsibilities" among groups creates conflict.

Fisheries Minister Phil Heatley says commercial groups don't need greater regulation, as they already provide information about their catches.

But he says more detail is needed from recreational and customary fishermen, so the Government can better understand their needs and sustain their fishing stocks.