Major fish farming study under way

NEW ZEALAND - Two world experts are completing a detailed report on whether a multimillion-dollar onshore fish farming industry, including processing plants, can be established in the Western Bay.

The scientists from the Norwegian Institute of Aquaculture Research, Akvaforsk, arrive on Friday to assess four potential fish-farming sites on the outskirts of Tauranga.

The report, which will be made available within two months, will give advice on the type of fish and seafood that can be grown here under specially controlled conditions.

Local Maori are looking to form a joint venture with the Chinese and export a variety of fish - from crayfish to flounder - to south-east Asia and other markets, earning the region millions of dollars.

Source: BayOfPlentyTimes