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Tech & Innovation
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Hopes high for exports of first new fish species in decades

Earth Sciences NZ will decide next month whether to seek external investment for a new commercial haku farm.

Haku (kingfish) being processed for export and local markets at Fish to Fish in Whangarei.

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Key points
  • What’s at stake: Science awards finalist Earth Sciences New Zealand is about to seek investment for a commercial farm of a new kingfish it has developed.
  • Background: An $18m recirculating aquaculture system was set up in Northland two years ago to farm haku (kingfish). It has increased production and revenue from the pilot facility and is now ready to scale up with commercial partners.
  • Key players: Earth Sciences New Zealand, National Institute of Atmospheric Research, Recirculating Aquaculture System group, Northland Regional Council.

Most fish tales either exaggerate the size of the fish, or tell a story so strange that it is unbelievable.

In the case of Earth Sciences New Zealand (ESNZ) and its efforts to develop a new high-value marine fish, they’re sticking to the facts while still trying to woo potential investors.

The

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Fiona Rotherham Fri, 15 May 2026
Contact the Writer: fiona@nbr.co.nz
News tip? Question? Typo? Let us know: editor@nbr.co.nz
© All content copyright NBR. Do not reproduce in any form without permission, even if you have a paid subscription.

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Key points
  • What’s at stake: Science awards finalist Earth Sciences New Zealand is about to seek investment for a commercial farm of a new kingfish it has developed.
  • Background: An $18m recirculating aquaculture system was set up in Northland two years ago to farm haku (kingfish). It has increased production and revenue from the pilot facility and is now ready to scale up with commercial partners.
  • Key players: Earth Sciences New Zealand, National Institute of Atmospheric Research, Recirculating Aquaculture System group, Northland Regional Council.
Hopes high for exports of first new fish species in decades
Tech & Innovation,
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