Seaweed Policy Symposium 2026
Last week, our Technical Officer Dr Mareike Babuder, attended Aotearoa New Zealand's first Seaweed Policy Symposium organized by the Aotearoa New Zealand Seaweed Association (ANZSA). This event brought together government agencies such as MPI, MBIE, DOC, Te Puni Kōkiri and the Ministry for the Environment, alongside researchers, community organisations, financial institutions and aquaculture leaders from across the motu to help shape the future of Aotearoa New Zealand's emerging seaweed sector.
As a board member of ANZSA, but more importantly representing Waikaitu Ltd as one of NZ's leading seaweed processors, Mareike contributed insights on the practical opportunities and challenges facing the sector, drawing on our experience in seaweed harvesting, processing, product development, regulatory compliance, market access, and the steps needed to support the sustainable growth of a thriving seaweed industry in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The discussions were focused on practical solutions such as identifying barriers in the regulatory settings, investment pathways and policy priorities that need to unlock the environmental, cultural and economic benefits of seaweed for New Zealand.
Mareike and the rest of the Waikaitu team is looking forward to continuing these conversations and being part of this supportive, innovative, and forward-thinking community as we work together to unlock the full potential of seaweed for Aotearoa New Zealand's economy, environment, and coastal communities.
Read more about the event:
