The Fisheries Act 1996 governs fisheries management throughout New Zealand’s territorial sea and Economic Exclusion Zone (EEZ). The Act is administered by the Ministry for Primary Industries and Fisheries New Zealand. The Minister of Fisheries exercises his powers under this Act.
This Act governs the administration of the Quota Management System. It also directs the Minister to provide for the non-commercial fishing interests, both Māori customary and recreational interests, of all New Zealanders.