Fish of New Zealand

New Zealand has a diverse fish fauna, from native freshwater species in rivers, lakes, and wetlands to a rich variety of marine fish in coastal and offshore waters. Many freshwater fish are small, secretive, and strongly tied to healthy habitats such as streams, wetlands, and estuaries.

New Zealand has 51 native freshwater fish species, many of which are found only here. These fish play an important role in aquatic ecosystems, acting as predators, scavengers, and prey, while marine fish are also a major part of New Zealand’s wider biodiversity.

---