The collection of long-term age data is a requirement for countries fishing for Southern Bluefin Tuna. This report describes the age estimation of otoliths collected from the New Zealand longline and recreational fishing sector between 2019 to 2021. A total of 238 otoliths were aged during this project. Age estimates ranged from 3–24 years and as in previous years there were few samples less than 4 years of age. No modal progression of age classes was observed with the age composition data.

Catch-at-age distributions were estimated using data and otoliths from the trawl fishery for barracouta (Thrysites atun, BAR) in BAR 4 and BAR 5 for the 2019–20 and 2020–21 fishing years and for gemfish (Rexea solandri, SKI) in SKI 3 and SKI 7 for the 2020–21 fishing year. Barracouta were mainly ages 2–5. Most of the gemfish in SKI 3 were age 1 with a second mode at ages 4–7, while in SKI 7, they were ages 5–9 with a moderate number of ages 0–2 present.

This report describes results from the random-site blue cod potting survey off north Otago in January 2022. Estimates are provided for population relative abundance, size and age structure, sex ratio, total mortality (Z), and fishing mortality (F). This was the third survey in the random-site survey time series with previous surveys in 2013 and 2018. In addition, 4 random sites were sampled in the proposed marine reserve (Te Umu Koau, D1) that, in part, overlaps with the main survey strata.

Land-based effects on coastal fisheries, kaimoana, and their habitats occur through a diversity of mechanisms. This literature review explores those mechanisms, and likely impacts in New Zealand, with arguably the most important being sedimentation. Background into concerns and interests held by selected iwi and hapū is provided. A potential new emerging issue is Submarine Groundwater Discharge rate reductions to coastal zones. Fundamental knowledge gaps remain, with research suggestions made.