Scaling Seaweed Farming in Aotearoa: Giant Kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) Shows Early Promise

It's a highlight for us to be working with the magnificent species of Macrocystis pyrifera, the giant kelp that grows to over 20 metres long and forms large forests in deep sheltered waters.

Unlike other species we've worked with (which grow downwards), Macrocystis pyrifera reaches to the surface of the ocean with floating canopies - which is a beautiful feature but also an interesting challenge when growing in a seaweed farm setting.

Over the past month we've been deploying Macrocystis pyrifera in Tory Channel, building local knowledge around kelp cultivation, farm operations, and regional growing conditions.

We're pleased to see growth already as we continue testing what's possible for scalable, locally adapted seaweed aquaculture in Aotearoa.

We deployed another round of Macrocystis this month, continuing to answer the questions around when, where and how - this is the kind of practical evidence that's needed to allow growth across different regions.

A big thank you to the APEX Marine Ltd team for their partnership and local expertise. These collaborations are critical so that seaweed farming can support coastal communities, marine restoration, and new blue economy opportunities.