All Species

Octopus

Latin Name: Pinnoctopus cordiformis and Macroctopus maorum

Weight: 0.5-17kg average 4.7kg

Length: 50-120cm

Family: Octopus are highly intelligent marine animals known for their ability to change colour and texture to blend into their surroundings. Two species commonly found in New Zealand waters are the common octopus (Pinnoctopus cordiformis) and the Maori octopus (Macroctopus maorum), the largest octopus species found around New Zealand. These species are important predators that feed on crabs, shellfish and fish.

  • Wild Caught
  • Farmed

Location

Two species of octopus are commonly found in New Zealand waters: the common octopus (Pinnoctopus cordiformis) and the Maori octopus (Macroctopus maorum). They are widespread around the North and South Islands, occurring from shallow coastal habitats to offshore waters at depths of at least 200 metres. Octopus inhabit a variety of environments, including rocky reefs, kelp forests and sandy seabeds.

Sustainability

This species is managed under New Zealand fisheries legislation administered by Fisheries New Zealand. Management measures are designed to support the sustainable use of marine resources.

Fishing Methods

Fishing Methods

Pots & Traps Pots & Traps

Fishing Season

  • JAN

  • FEB

  • MAR

  • APR

  • MAY

  • JUN

  • JUL

  • AUG

  • SEP

  • OCT

  • NOV

  • DEC

Peak Season
Off Season

Nutrition

Source: Vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin E, Copper, Iodine, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc

Good Source: Niacin (vitamin B3), vitamin B12, Iron, Selenium, Omega-3 fatty acids

Seafood is a highly nutritious food and is a great source of protein. Many species are low in saturated fat and a number of them are a good source of Omega 3.

Did you know?

Many octopuses are able to escape danger by releasing a squirt of obscuring ink as they zoom away on a jet of water. Within their ink sacs, they produce melanin, the same dark pigment that’s in our hair and skin.

Cooking Tips

Octopus has a mild flavour and a distinctive texture that is both smooth and firm. Traditionally, octopus is tenderised before cooking to enhance its tenderness while retaining its characteristic bite. Suitable

  • Barbecuing
  • Frying
  • Grilling

Octopus Recipes

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