Twice a year in April and October, Fisheries NZ changes the management for various fish stocks across the country. Before they make any changes Fisheries NZ issues a proposal paper and asks for submissions from interested parties, including the public, fishers, Māori interests and environmental interests. Everyone has to respond by a set deadline. These are called “sustainability reviews”. 

The reviews usually focus on catch limits, recreational and customary allowances, bag limits and fishing seasons. After the submission, Fisheries New Zealand reviews and summarises the submissions for the Minister, and makes recommendations on what the Minister ought to do next. The Minister for Oceans for Fisheries has the final say on the proposed changes. The Minister’s decision is announced and any changes apply from 1 April or 1 October, unless the Minister nominates another date for implementation.