Having the fishing industry develop on the backs of forced labour is morally indefensible and cannot be justified as an efficient rational economic activity. Ultimately, the economic performance of the industry as well as the fairness and effectiveness of the fisheries management system are not matters to be closeted away ‘within closed fisheries circles, they are issues of great concern for the public at large’ [43]. This case study found social outcomes are of crucial importance. Other studies have shown that the introduction of fisheries management systems in other countries, such as Canada and Iceland has led to increased safety, higher wages and better working conditions [44]. Yet, unlike those countries New Zealand's fisheries management policies have over several decades, encouraged and facilitated the use of low-cost FCVs, manned by migrant workers, with the profit motive disconnected from stewardship objectives.