New Zealand trawlers reported 35 tonnes of coral bycatch

New fisheries data released by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) reveals that commercial trawlers in New Zealand waters reported hauling up 35,640 kg of protected coral and sponges between October 2019 and March 2026.

Environmental organizations, including Greenpeace and the Deep Sea Conservation Coalition, have criticized the findings, stating the data contradicts industry claims that trawling avoids coral habitats. The Chatham Rise, located off the South Island’s east coast, accounted for approximately 20,000 kg of the total seabed bycatch, representing nearly 60% of the recorded amount. Other significant impacts were noted in the Sub Antarctic and South East fisheries areas.

Advocates are calling for political action to protect vulnerable marine ecosystems, such as seamounts, from bottom trawling. They emphasize that deep-sea corals grow slowly and are highly susceptible to damage from trawl nets.