Innovation in Aquaculture
He taiao toitū, he oranga tangata.
A sustainable environment is a thriving people.
Southland is leading the way in sustainable aquaculture. Our region is setting industry standards, shaping best practice, and showing how a growing aquaculture sector can thrive in harmony with nature. With some of the cleanest, coldest waters in the world, water quality is our foundation—and protecting it is our promise.
Innovation here is guided by kaitiakitanga and driven by a deep respect for te taiao. Clean, clever, and conscious practices are scaling with purpose - balancing environmental responsibility with economic opportunity.
What makes Southland truly unique is the strength of our partnerships. Councils, economic development agencies, iwi, academia, and local communities work alongside industry to champion innovation, integrity, and long-term success. It’s a place where business and science meet, where bold ideas are backed by collaboration, and where global best practice is not just followed -but defined.
We’re not just doing it better. We’re doing it right - for our people, our planet, and the generations to come.
Sea Nest
Bluff Harbour, Southland / Marine Restoration
Sea Nest is pioneering marine restoration in Aotearoa with modular reef structures that revive damaged habitats. In under a year, their Bluff Harbour pilot turned a barren seafloor into a thriving marine ecosystem, proof that smart tech and bold vision can spark rapid change.
Greenwave Aotearoa
Murihiku, Te Waipounamu / Regenerative Aquaculture
Greenwave Aotearoa is laying the foundations for a regenerative seaweed industry in Aotearoa. Anchored in Murihiku, they’re scaling sustainable seaweed farming systems that work in harmony with nature, creating new opportunities for coastal communities and climate-positive innovation. Through partnership, purpose, and a bold vision for the moana, they’re showing how seaweed can help regenerate our oceans and our economy.
Exploring Local Aquafeed Opportunies
Murihiku, Te Waipounamu / Regenerative Aquaculture
The Aquafeed Production Opportunities within Murihiku Southland report, developed by Great South, explores the potential to make feed using regional crops, marine resources and insect-based proteins. The report identifies opportunities to build a local supply chain, reduce reliance on imported feed and create new economic opportunities while making use of the region’s resources. The work supports Goal 14 of the Murihiku Southland Aquaculture Pathway, which focuses on developing a local aquafeed industry aligned with circular economy principles and regenerative aquaculture.
Want to learn more about the future of aquaculture in Aotearoa?
Visit MPI’s aquaculture hub to explore how innovation and sustainability are shaping the industry: