Dedicated to constant innovation

Federation members have free access to an exclusive online group dedicated to gear innovation. You can chat directly with other fishers to share tips, ideas and the latest gear innovation in Aotearoa New Zealand.

What is the gear innovation library?

In 2024, the New Zealand Federation of Commercial Fishermen (Federation) along with Fisheries New Zealand (FNZ), Seafood New Zealand and Moana New Zealand hosted a series of eight workshops across Aotearoa to showcase gear innovations, engage with fishers and promote connections with innovators and technology experts.

On the back of these workshops, the Federation and FNZ have collaborated to create a gear innovation library. The library will provide information on gear, technology and method developments happening here and around the world. This will be a living resource that is updated as technology evolves and new resources become available.

Learn more below.

Trawling

Surface longlining

Other fisheries

Studies and reports

Questions?

Do you have or know of a new gear, idea or technology advancement that you want to share? Need help contacting a fisher or technology developer? There are a number of ways to seek advice. Email [email protected] or Fisheries New Zealand at [email protected].

Other gear library websites

Several other international jurisdictions post gear innovation updates specific to their fisheries.

Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC):https://extensionaus.com.au/trawlfin/
ICES/FAO Working Group on Fishing Technology and Fish Behaviour:https://wgftfb.org/
NOAA Fisheries Northeast: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/new-england-mid-atlantic/marine-mammal-protection/borrow-northeast-fisheries-science-center-gear
Seafish: https://www.seafish.org/responsible-sourcing/fishing-gear-technology-and-innovation/selective-gear-technology-for-fishing/

Have an idea for gear innovation?

There are several funding sources available to you to help get your ideas off the ground.

Primary Sector Growth Fund (PSGF)

Primary Sector Growth Fund is a public-private co-investment fund that supports projects throughout the food and fibre value chain for the benefit of New Zealand and rural communities. An online Expression of Interest and the details of eligible projects are available at www.mpi.govt.nz/psgfund. Learn more about the types of projects that qualify and how to submit an Expression of Interest.

About the Primary Sector Growth Fund