Talley's Group Proposes Closure of Westport Fish Processing Factory

Talley's Group mulls closing its Westport fish processing plant in a move toward consolidation. Buller Mayor Chris Russell describes the news as "devastating."

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 10, 2026, 4:46 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Consolidation Toward Motueka and Timaru

Talley's Group chief executive Tony Hazlett stated that the proposal follows significant productivity gains across the company's wider processing network. These improvements now allow for the total volume of fish to be processed through existing facilities in Motueka and Timaru, leaving the Westport site redundant for large-scale processing. Under the proposed plan, fish would still be received at the Westport wharf but would be shipped immediately to other plants rather than being processed on-site.

Impact on the Buller District

Buller Mayor Chris Russell described the news as "devastating" for the Westport community, particularly coming shortly after job losses at Western Mineral Sands. While Hazlett confirmed that all affected staff would be offered alternative positions within the Talley's group, the Mayor expressed concern regarding the potential exodus of residents from the district.

"If people can take advantage of offers from within the Talley's group, that is really a wonderful thing, but if people leave the Buller district that is not good for us," Russell said.

Consultation and Next Steps