Craig Ellison who as a New Zealander, adds another dimension to our ever growing trans-Tasman businesses.

A degree in Marine Parasitology is the scientific base that started Craig’s career involvement with marine life. His family has a history of involvement with, and dependence on, marine resources. This was exemplified by the family company Otakou Fisheries, for which Craig was a director, the Financial Officer and Quota Manager.

From 1992 to 2004 Craig was a Commissioner of Te Ohu Kai Moana (The Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission). Particular highpoints include the successful resolution of the allocation mechanism for Maori in regard to fisheries settlement assets, culminating in the enactment of the Maori Fisheries Act 2004, and also the creation of the Prepared Foods Joint Venture.

Representation of fishing industry groups and sectors has featured strongly in Craig’s career. He has served a term as President of the Fishing Industry Association, as a member of the New Zealand Fishing Industry Board, and as a representative on many sector groups such as the Rock Lobster Management Group, the Squid Fisheries Management Company, and the Paua Management Company.

Craig has also been involved with International Trade issues, by Chairing the Pacific Economic Cooperation Council Fisheries Task Force for several years. In particular this forum focused on the deleterious impacts of subsidies as economic distortions in the fisheries sector within the Pacific.
Current interests focus on adoption of good corporate governance processes, particularly within Maori organisations.

A self-confessed low profile sort of guy Craig spends most of his time on fisheries related issues - particularly with abalone, which is one of his passions. His abalone company is vertically integrated with strong and long term relationships in the market place, and on quality improvements.