Sunderland Marine, the New Zealand Federation of Commercial Fishermen (Federation) and Young Fish Aotearoa NZ have opened nominations for the Sunderland Marine Young Fisher of the Year Award.  

Now in its third-straight year, the award celebrates young fishers under the age of 35 who have demonstrated skill and commitment and have a determination to further their careers within the fishing industry.  

2025 recipient Cole Robinson, who co-founded boutique commercial spearfishing operation Strait Speared with business partner Tom Strawbridge, said the award gave his Wellington-based business invaluable exposure.  

“Our Wellington restaurants all feel proud to be supplied fish by us, and associated with such an award. They know it is just two young guys behind this operation, which makes it very cool to be recognised.” 

The $5,000 award money, contributed by Sunderland Marine, also went a long way to support their operations, setting Strait Speared up to grow in the future.  

“We upgraded some of the chilly bags that we deliver fish in, upgraded some of our dive gear and put some aside for a future purpose-built boat upgrade. It has been a massive leg up over the past year.” 

Nicki Peacey, representing Sunderland Marine, says she looks forward to this year’s cohort of nominees. “We are looking for passionate fishers who embody next generation in the commercial fishing industry, who are keen to try new techniques or technologies and proactively investing in their future growth.” 

Robinson is also pleased the award is returning for its third year. “It is great to have young people in the industry recognised for their hard work and fresh perspectives. Receiving the award has given us a lot of exposure, and there are many young people in this industry who could benefit from that, too.” 

Federation President Doug Saunders-Loder says, “These fishers are the future of our industry, and supporting them to succeed is paramount. With so much in the media painting our industry in a negative light, it’s more important than ever we celebrate our positive achievements – our people.” 

The 2026 award will be presented at the Federation’s annual conference, held in Wellington on 28 May.  

For media enquiries contact:

Claire Williamson
[email protected]

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