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Strengthening and Modernising Fish and Game New Zealand (PDF, 7,844K)

Summary

While non-legislative changes following several reviews have led to some improvements within Fish and Game New Zealand, they fall short of addressing the core organisational issues identified in this RIS. To ensure the regulatory system is fit-for-purpose, the Government must now act to resolve these systemic challenges. Doing so will provide licence holders and the public with confidence that hunting and angling resources are being responsibly and effectively managed.

The proposals outlined in this RIS seek to modernise Fish and Game New Zealand to deliver improved outcomes for licence holders. Key objectives include:

• Balancing powers and responsibilities between regional Fish and Game Councils and the national New Zealand Council. This will better support local decision-making for regional hunting and fishing activities, while ensuring national cohesion and strategic direction.
• Placing licence holders at the centre of the rationale for change, ensuring their interests and voices are prioritised.
• Retaining the "user pays, user says" principle, preserving the democratic and self-funded nature of the organisation.
• Aligning governance practices with contemporary standards expected of comparable public entities.

Without legislative reform, poor governance, inefficiencies, and internal discord are likely to persist. This could result in continued conflict with local communities and mismanagement of hunting and angling resources, with little incentive to improve organisational policies and processes.