Seafood industry bodies Seafood New Zealand and the New Zealand Federation of Commercial Fishermen (Federation) will be co-hosting their annual conferences in 2026, at Tākina in Te Whanganui a Tara Wellington, with the Seafood New Zealand conference on May 26 and 27 and the Federation conference on May 28 and 29.

Federation President Doug Saunders-Loder says Wellington is the perfect central location for hosting fishers, maritime company representatives and conference speakers from around the country.

“By gathering in the Capital, Ministers and MPs of all parties can meet a cross-section of the sector, from passionate independent fishers to directors of larger companies and all the other maritime businesses that make our $2.2-billion export industry possible.

“It's a good opportunity for fishers to attend the Seafood New Zealand day and get that national and international perspective, and also meet with the heads of seafood companies and the regulator. I also want Seafood New Zealand's delegates to stay and attend our conference day to really engage with how policy decisions impact those who put in the hard yards every day on the water.”

Seafood New Zealand’s presentation of the Seafood Stars Awards and much-anticipated Seafood Showcase will wind up the programme on 27 May, while the Federation’s hallmark fish n’ chip dinner and charity auction, and awarding of the prestigious Electronic Navigation Shield and Sunderland Marine Young Fisher of the Year Award, will follow its sessions on 28 May.

Further details and registration for the Seafood New Zealand and New Zealand Federation of Commercial Fishermen 2026 conferences will be available in early 2026.