This issue's ‘tipping' point was reached in July 2002 at a workshop of industry, environmental and government interests in Nelson, New Zealand. It quickly became evident that all parties wanted the same outcome - the widespread use of responsible fishing practices.

The group named itself Southern Seabird Solutions and members committed themselves to developing cooperative international projects as well as continuing to improve our own standards within New Zealand.

In November 2003 Southern Seabird Solutions made the transition from an informal alliance into a registered Charitable Trust. This marked an important step forward by fishing industry, government, and conservation groups to reduce seabird deaths amongst New Zealand and overseas fishing fleets.

Trust supporters encompass the full range of groups concerned with mitigating the effects of fishing on seabirds, including fishermen and seafood industry representatives, government, environmental groups, ecotourism operators, fisheries trainers, seabird ecologists, and indigenous fisheries interests.                                                                                                                  

As laid out in the Trust Deed, the Trust’s primary role and purpose is to:

• Encourage New Zealand fishers to become world leaders in developing and using effective mitigation measures, and acknowledge role model fishers and fleets.

• Implement cooperative projects that build commitment for use of mitigation measures, and transfer of technology and knowledge between countries.

• Establish multi-stakeholder groups with similar objectives to the Trust in other countries.

• Encourage all fishing nations to join the Agreement for the Conservation of Albatrosses and Petrels (ACAP), and encourage them to implement effective National Plans of Action.

• Carry out research that contributes to the conservation of albatrosses and petrels. Seek resources to enable the Trust to implement its projects.