Minister Shane Jones has officially opened the Wellington Kaimoana Hub to support local export revenue and job opportunities.
A new seafood processing factory in Porirua north of Wellington will bring export revenue, jobs and opportunities for the community, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones said. The Wellington Kaimoana Hub, a joint venture between Māori owned seafood companies Moana New Zealand and Port Nicholson Fisheries, was formally opened by Minister Jones.
The Minister acknowledged the dedication that had gone into getting the project over the line.
“I congratulate Moana New Zealand and Port Nicholson Fisheries for their work together that has resulted in this outstanding facility and the many benefits it will bring,” the Minister said.
“The seafood sector is an important part of New Zealand’s economic engine. The billions of dollars of export revenue it brings into the country is good for all Kiwis.”
Minister Jones said there were significant contributing factors that had supported seafood’s popularity, especially responsible practices.
“The sector’s continued success in the face of tough weather events and geopolitical issues is testament to the people who work hard every day to sustainably collect and process this valuable resource.”
More than 9000 people in New Zealand work in the wild capture fishing industry, including seafood processing, which have gone on to support whānau and have a greater impact on communities across the country.
The 4500m² Wellington Kaimoana Hub is a purpose-built facility and includes a multi-use seafood processing factory to meet the growing demand for New Zealand kaimoana.
“Consumers here and around the world prize New Zealand’s seafood for its high quality and sustainability, providing a good base for continued growth,” Minister Jones said.
“I am committed to ensuring the Government does its part to facilitate that growth.”
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