Who we are

Blue Water Marine Research Ltd (1997) was established by John Holdsworth and Peter Saul who together, have over 50 years experience in fisheries management and research. The business in based near the small fishing port of Tutukaka in northern New Zealand but projects have been undertaken around the country, from Fiordland to Wanganella Banks.

There have been many technological advances in the way marine species are studied and Blue Water Marine Research is a leader in the use of electronic fish tag technology in New Zealand. Fisheries management has also advanced.

The Quota Management System (QMS) has been effective in rationalising the commercial fleet but employs complex decision making and consultation processes. A good understanding of the legislative and research requirements is important to get the best results. We have considerable experience in fisheries research and management systems in New Zealand. This depth of knowledge has been useful in providing quality research and advice on fisheries and marine issues.

Our Team

John Holdsworth (BSc)

Director

John is closely involved with many of the research projects underway and is responsible for the recreational harvest surveys and gamefish tagging projects. He is a member of a number of the Ministry of Fisheries working groups which have been restructured to fit with the areas and species groupings proposed in Fisheries Plans. The main office of Blue Water Marine Research is on John and Sandy’s 50 acre property at the back of Matapouri Bay. John is vice commodore of the Tutukaka South Pacific Yacht Club.

Email John

Peter Saul

Director

Pete Saul is responsible for the Billfish Logbook project and a large part of the Pacific Bluefin satellite tagging project. He has been involved in fisheries for most of his working life as a diver, science technician, charter boat skipper and policy analysist. It is also a large part of his leisure and voluntary time.

Pete and Brenda Saul also own Lady Jess Charters. For over 20 years Pete has taken clients gamefishing for marlin and tuna, line fishing for a range of inshore species, or diving at the world renowned marine reserve at the Poor Knights Islands. They live at Ngunguru and Pete has served as president of the Whangarei Deep Sea Anglers Club and is the records officer for the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council.

Email Peter