World Tuna Day

World Tuna Day History

World Tuna Day is dedicated to recognizing the critical role of tuna in sustainable development, food security, economic opportunity, and livelihoods around the globe. It also serves as an opportunity to spread information, promote global awareness, and acknowledge international cooperation on managing tuna resources sustainably. This global observance has a significant impact, being one of the most widely consumed fish worldwide. It also emphasises the importance of sustainably managing marine resources, which is a shared concern for all nations.

The United Nations General Assembly officially recognised World Tuna Day in 2017, but it had been celebrated informally since 2011. For New Zealand, World Tuna Day holds particular relevance. New Zealand is home to one of the world's largest exclusive economic zones (EEZs), with a vast ocean area rich in marine life including multiple tuna species. New Zealand's commercial fishing industry, local communities, and many individuals depend on this resource. The country is highly invested in sustainable practices and international cooperation to manage regional tuna stocks and ensure their longevity.

In New Zealand, World Tuna Day is recognised by government agencies, fisheries, environmental organisations and the public. They may take part in awareness campaigns, educational programs, and sustainable fishing initiatives. It also includes discussions around the cultural significance of tuna, particularly to Maori communities. World Tuna Day occurs on May 2 each year, serving as a reminder about the importance of sustainable practices to protect the world's tuna stock and to appreciate its value for both current and future generations.

Facts about World Tuna Day

• The theme for World Tuna Day in 2025 was Yes We Can.
  In 2024 the theme was Our Tuna, Our Legacy.
  In 2023 the theme was Restoring Tuna Abundance to Benefit People and Nature.
• The tuna industry has an estimated global sale value of almost $10 billion according to the UN.
• In New Zealand, World Tuna Day is also a chance to acknowledge the crucial role Māori - the indigenous people of New Zealand - play in conserving aquatic life. Māori have traditional practices and customs related to tuna (eel in Māori language), which are recognized and respected.
• The indigenous Māori people of New Zealand regard tuna (eels) as a taonga, or treasure. They have traditional knowledge about sustainable fishing methods and fishing restrictions known as 'rāhui'.

In the News and Trending in NZ for World Tuna Day

Top things to do in NZ for World Tuna Day

• Learn more about the different kinds of tuna species. Greenpeace lists several species of tuna and provides healthy recommendations for consumption.
• Visit the Te Papa museum in Wellington – The museum has an exhibition on tuna, highlighting the significance of tuna in Māori culture and the challenges of conserving tuna populations.
• Visit the Auckland Fish Market – The market is home to a wide variety of seafood, including tuna. Visitors can buy fresh tuna and even get it cooked on the spot on World Tuna Day.