Mongabay · Climate & nature

New Zealand's Onboard Camera System Faces Uncertain Future

New Zealand mandated onboard cameras on its inshore fishing fleet to monitor catch and bycatch, placing it at the forefront of electronic monitoring. However, the program's future is uncertain due to skepticism from a key government official.

The camera system, implemented after a 2016 scandal, aims to increase transparency and improve bycatch data. It covers vessels using six gear types and was completed in 2025.

Fisheries official Shane Jones has criticized the system as "state surveillance" and proposed restricting public access to footage, though the rollout continued.

Many fishers now support the cameras, seeing them as a way to improve accountability and understand fishing impacts. Some find the technology feasible.

The system involves government-contracted cameras recording activity, with footage transmitted wirelessly. Fishers use apps for data, and vessels transmit locations. The rollout cost NZ$45.6 million.

New Zealand leads in inshore monitoring, though the U.S. is a global leader with decentralized systems. Footage is reviewed by Fisheries New Zealand based on risk.

The cameras have increased reported bycatch, indicating better reporting. However, limited public access to footage is a key criticism. A proposed bill could remove freedom-of-information rights for footage.

Exemptions for the largest and smallest vessels and reduced observer coverage are noted limitations. Observers provide functions cameras cannot, like tagging and sampling.

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