Recreational Fishing Nets Big Gains for Region - Hydro Canal Fishery Contributes $13.6 Million to Mackenzie Basin Economy

New research shows that recreational freshwater fishing contributes millions of dollars to the Mackenzie Basin and that local businesses and communities land the gains. 

Central South Island Fish & Game Council (CSIFGC) today released the results of a groundbreaking economic impact assessment conducted in partnership with the University of Otago and Meridian Energy. You can read it here.

The assessment highlights the significant economic contribution of the Te Manahuna Mackenzie Basin's hydro canal fishery to the local economy, with anglers contributing an estimated $13.6 million during the 2022-23 fishing season alone.

Key Findings:

• The Te Manahuna Mackenzie Basin's hydro canals rank among New Zealand's top freshwater fishing destinations, attracting 11.9% of Fish & Game managed freshwater angling effort.
• The research shows that the hydro canal fishery contributes 3.5% of the total GDP of the Mackenzie Basin region and accounts for 6.7% of the area’s tourism expenditure.
• Anglers’ spending was highest in accommodation, comprising approximately 28% of total spending, followed closely by food and beverages at 27.4%.
• The analysis also noted that local anglers spent less than visitors from other regions and international visitors tended to spend the most per trip.

Central South Island Fish & Game chief executive Steve McKnight says the research shows the hydro canal fishery, encompassing the Ōhau C Canal, Ōhau B Canal, Pūkaki-Ōhau A Canal, and Tekapo Canal, is a vital economic driver for the Mackenzie Basin communities, particularly the townships of Tekapo, Twizel, and Omarama.

“The easy roadside access to salmon fishing, along with the chance to catch trophy-sized trout in a stunning scenic setting, are key factors behind the fishery’s popularity,” he says.

"Twelve per cent of New Zealand’s Fish & Game managed freshwater angling effort happens right here. This economic impact assessment highlights how important recreational fishing is to sustaining local communities and people. A thriving fishery supports a thriving local economy."

Brent Lovelock, a researcher from the University of Otago's Department of Tourism, underscores the potential for further economic gains: "International visitors to the canal fishery tend to stay longer and spend more per trip than the average domestic angler.

“The sustained draw of these international visitors not only has the potential to positively impact the Mackenzie Basin area economically but also benefit New Zealand as a whole by boosting international tourism.

“With the potential for international marketing campaigns that highlight the unique appeal of the hydro canal fisheries, there is optimism about the continued growth of the local economy.”

Tania Palmer, general manager Generation for Meridian Energy, is pleased to support the region.

"We’re proud of the world-renowned hydro canal fishery that has developed together with the Waitaki Power Scheme and are very pleased to continue our work with Central South Island Fish & Game to protect and enhance these fisheries for the many people who enjoy them."

McKnight says Fish & Game is currently reviewing its canal fishery management strategy and is exploring community-engaged project options to further support the hydro canal fishery.

For more information, please contact:

Central South Island Fish & Game: Steve McKnight, Chief Executive, 027 231 9843

Meridian contact: Philip Clark, Head of Communications, 027 838 5710

University of Otago Contact: Professor Brent Lovelock, Department of Tourism, 027 7766472

 

Note to editors:

• The assessment area including the Mackenzie Basin townships of Tekapo / Takapō, Twizel and Omarama and surrounding areas (excluding Mount Cook Village).
• The assessment period covered the 2022-23 sports fishing season (one year), 1 October 2022 – 30 September 2023.
• An online survey captured the expenditure data of 1626 anglers that held sports fishing licences during the season. Expenditure figures of surveyed anglers were scaled up to represent all anglers using the canal fishery.

About Fish & Game

Fish & Game manages trout, salmon, and game birds and helps New Zealanders to connect with nature and experience the many benefits fishing and hunting offers. 

We work to protect the environment that anglers and hunters have enjoyed as a tradition for over 150 years.  

caption:

Robert Hopkins with a 20.5 pound rainbow trout from the canals