New research carried out by Central South Island Fish & Game Council, the University of Otago and Meridian Energy showed the freshwater fishing contributes millions of dollars to the Mackenzie Basin and that local businesses and communities land the gains.
Anglers contributed an estimated $13.6 million during the 2022-23 fishing season alone.
The basin’s hydro canals rank among New Zealand’s top freshwater fishing destinations, attracting 11.9% of Fish & Game’s 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 about 28% of total spending, followed closely by food and beverages at 27.4%.
The analysis also noted 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 said the research showed the hydro canal fishery, encompassing the Ōhau C Canal, Ōhau B Canal, Pūkaki-Ōhau A Canal, and Tekapo Canal, was a vital economic driver for the Mackenzie Basin communities, particularly the townships of Tekapo, Twizel, and Omarama.
"Twelve percent 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."
University of Otago’s department of tourism researcher Brent Lovelock said there was 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," he said.
"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."
Meridian Energy generation general manager Tania Palmer said the company was 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."
Mr McKnight said Fish & Game was reviewing its canal fishery management strategy and was exploring community-engaged project options to further support the hydro canal fishery.
