A new plan to grow the aquaculture industry will boost the economy and provide vital jobs that support regional communities, Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones said. He launched the New Zealand Aquaculture Development Plan 2025 – 2030 at the Havelock Mussel and Seafood Festival in Marlborough two days ago.
Mr Jones also announced a loan of nearly $10 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF) to improve Havelock Marina, a key piece of infrastructure for the mussel industry in Marlborough.
The marina supports various aquaculture activities, including processing, maintenance and support services.
The funding will be used to dredge the marina channel and basin to enable safe and unrestricted access for commercial users and residents.
Storm events in 2021 and 2022 resulted in silt building up in the channel, reducing the depth at low tide and reducing vessel movements – causing congestion and limiting access to services.
Construction of three replacement jetties will enable increased traffic and minimize impacts of flooding and climate change.
The construction and dredging work will generate up to 54 jobs, the official said.