AUCKLAND, Today: New Zealand’s Fish of the Year is making a splash, with over 2,300 votes cast since voting opened on Saturday, 1st March. The race is heating up as the final week begins.
Orange Roughy is holding onto the lead, keeping a school of challengers at bay. Fish of the Year spokesperson Kim Jones says its margin has stayed steady since the start of voting.
“The Orange Roughy was quick to take an early lead – in contrast to this fish’s slow-moving nature. Strong campaigning from its campaigner Environmental Law Initiative included an endorsement from NZ Geographic which definitely helped boost its profile.”
With voting open until 5pm, Sunday 16th March, the competition is still wide open. Battling for second place are the Whale Shark (backed by WWF New Zealand) and the Longfin Eel (backed by Matuku Link).
This is the first time the Whale Shark has been in the competition, adding to the excitement of this year’s contest.
“The competition is heating up and – unlike our oceans – this is not due to climate change.” – Kim Jones
“The competition is heating up and – unlike our oceans – this is not due to climate change.
“Zealandia joined the race in the last few days and is campaigning for the mighty Īnanga (whitebait). Also adopted just this week was the Red moki, by The Friends of Te Whanganui-O-Hei Marine Reserve Trust,” Kim added.
To encourage votes and raise awareness of New Zealand’s endangered fish, Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust is offering prizes, including a Rangitoto Sunset Kayak experience for two (with dinner!) from Auckland Sea Kayaks and a premium mask and snorkel set from Wettie. A colouring competition is also open for kids.
“New Zealanders are encouraged to visit www.fishoftheyear.org.nz, learn a little about Aotearoa’s weird and wonderful native fish and cast their vote – but they have to do it before 5pm Sunday!”
Current Fish of the Year Leaderboard
(From a pool of 44 nominees)
- Orange Roughy – 584 votes
- Whale Shark – 282 votes
- Longfin Eel – 280 votes
- Big-bellied Seahorse – 198 votes
- ‘Great White Shark – 172 votes
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