New Zealand’s first open ocean salmon farm, the New Zealand King Salmon Blue Endeavour project, has received final approval from the Ministry of Primary Industries, marking a significant milestone after a lengthy approval process.

The project, located north of the Marlborough Sounds, aims to produce 10,000 tonnes of harvested salmon annually, generating an export revenue of up to $300 million per year.

Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Shane Jones hailed it as a boon for the Marlborough region’s economy, emphasizing the creation of jobs and sustainable seafood production.

This venture into open ocean farming represents the future of salmon farming in New Zealand, leveraging cooler, deeper waters to mitigate challenges such as high summer temperatures. The company emphasizes evidence-based decision-making and technological innovations to navigate the dynamic ocean environment, aiming for sustainable and responsible aquaculture practices.