Fishery Officer

Tasks & duties

• educate the people involved in using New Zealand's fisheries resources
• talk to schools and fishing, diving and boating clubs
• inspect fishing vessels
• inspect retail outlets such as restaurants and fish shops
• work closely with the commercial fishing industry
• enforce fish and shellfish quotas
• undertake investigative and surveillance work
• provide information on fisheries laws, policies and procedures
• take legal action against people who break the fisheries laws
• gather, record and analyse information on fishing and associated sectors
• assist iwi groups with access to their customary fishing rights.

Fishery officers are also expected to undertake additional responsibilities such as being a project leader or a network co-ordinator for honorary fishery officers (volunteer officers).

Skills & knowledge

• knowledge of New Zealand's fisheries legislation, including quota and fisheries management
• knowledge of fishing methods and equipment
• knowledge of environmental issues

• knowledge of fish and shellfish production, processing and retailing -an understanding of the Treaty of Waitangi and the traditional fishing practices of different ethnic groups
• good communication and people skills, including teaching skills
• interviewing techniques
• knowledge of inspection techniques
• analytical and decision-making ability
• writing skills
• computer skills
• technical skills such as photography
• the ability to drive a range of vehicles, including boats.

Entry requirements

To become a fishery officer you need to undergo a Ministry of Fisheries psychological profiling test and a three-month training course at the Royal NZ Police College. You also need to have no criminal convictions and must have a current driver's licence.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is preferred. Useful subjects include English and science.

Tertiary education

A relevant tertiary qualification, such as a science or applied science degree, is useful for becoming a fishery officer. Accounting, legal or computer qualifications are also useful.

Training on the job

Skills are gained on the job. Fishery officers are also encouraged to undergo training in other relevant skills such as financial analysis, law, computers, languages or driving.

Useful experience

• work in law enforcement
• work for the Royal NZ Navy or Army
• work in the fishing industry
• work in the education field
• any marine or fishing experience
• any work with people of different ethnic backgrounds
• experience in the electronic security and/or surveillance industry

Related courses

Conservation and Ecology
Fishing and Seafood Industry
Security Training

For more information, please refer to Career Services.