New Zealand has achieved a major milestone in seafood production with the launch of its first commercial-scale kingfish farm, marking a significant advancement in land-based aquaculture. The state-of-the-art facility, inaugurated on August 13, 2024, at NIWA’s Northland Aquaculture Centre in Ruakākā, is set to revolutionize the industry by producing up to 600 tonnes of high-value kingfish annually.
This cutting-edge farm aims to meet the escalating global demand for seafood and contribute towards New Zealand’s ambitious goal of reaching a $3 billion seafood industry by 2035. According to NIWA’s Chief Executive, John Morgan, the new facility fills a crucial market gap by utilizing a recirculating aquaculture system (RAS). This system is renowned for its superior environmental and economic performance, offering precise control over all production aspects
Kingfish, known for their rapid growth and efficient feed conversion, will be cultivated from a 1 mm egg to a 3 kg market-sized fish in under 12 months. Morgan highlighted that extensive research has pinpointed optimal conditions to ensure the health and well-being of the fish, underscoring the facility’s commitment to high-quality production.
The RAS facility is a collaborative effort between NIWA and the Northland Regional Council, who constructed and leased the premises to NIWA. This venture represents a substantial investment in Northland’s economy and has already garnered praise from chefs and local restaurant suppliers for the exceptional quality of the kingfish produced.
With growing interest from the food sector and commercial partners, this innovative project promises to set a new standard in sustainable seafood production, positioning New Zealand as a leader in the global aquaculture industry.
