The Maori and the Sea

Maori fishing and aquaculture activity in New Zealand.

In the postcard scenery of the Marlborough Sounds, a fjord region situated at the very north of the South Island lies a paradise for mussel farming. 
A unique species unique, the famous “green-lipped mussel” is also a rising star in New Zealand’s exports.
At Helen Bay, the Maori have taken control of the mussel beds, hence reclaiming their rights over the Pacific “garden”.
For the last 30 years, Chief Tipene O’Regan, a man of both Maori and Irish ancestry, has had only one obsession: the return of Maori fishing rights and access to the resources of the sea. 
A respected tribal elder, eminent academic and very influential businessman, Sir Tipene O’Regan is a major figure in New Zealand.
Through his efforts, the Ngai Tahu tribe has regained its status
and Maori identity, and now occupies an important place in New Zealand’s society. 
Currently, the commercial empire of the Maori represents about half of New Zealand’s fishing industry
and aquaculture.