Graham, Nadine, Matt and Nick Taylor
Name: Graham, Nadine, Matt and Nick Taylor
Years in industry: 15
Occupation: Rock Lobster fishermen, skipper and company owner/operators
Vessel: Fugitive
Location: Picton, New Zealand
Love, marriage and rock lobsters are a winning combination for Picton-based Graham and Nadine Taylor, and their two boys Matt (11) and Nick (9).
The Taylor's success story began in 1995 when, as newlyweds, the decision was made to fish commercially for rock lobster, or as they are also known, crayfish. It was back to the family roots for trained electrician Graham (now also a commercial skipper) - his father and great grand-father had fished commercially - but it was more like "baptism by fire" for Nadine. Nevertheless, Nadine has no regrets.
"It was just the two of us and it was great fun. It was absolutely the most exciting of times living on the edge of Cook Strait and working together on the boat; and it was also the best thing for us because it made me completely understand the challenges of fishing."
Miles away from motorways
"Our decision to fish is what we like to call a life choice for our family - and we love it"
It's not uncommon for the Taylor's to pinch themselves about their lifestyle.
Nadine says that they regularly tune into Wellington radio stations while out on Cook Strait, and by eight or so in the morning it's a great day on the water. "We laugh when we hear that Wellington's Victoria tunnel or the motorway into the city is backed up. Here we're in paradise."
Pride in the Product
"Stock handling and quality control is very important. The Chinese markets love our New Zealand rock lobster. The product is well cared for and arrives fresh and alive," he says.
Rock lobster fishermen lay steel lobster pots with bait overnight, which attracts the rock lobster and only those of legal size are kept for export. The smaller fish are returned alive back to the sea.
Fishing sustainably for our children
Of Graham and Nadine's two boys it is youngest son Nick who wants to be a fisherman while Matt is content with eating the catch - crayfish with salt and pepper on fresh white bread is his favorite.
As parents, they need to know in their lifetime that the resource will be around for their boys and for future generations.
"We're committed to sustainability - the fish have to last a heck of a lot longer for them. It is our vision for the future that he can enjoy what we've had and then that he can do the same for his kids," says Nadine.
Career and lifestyle combine
The Taylor's career in fishing has earned them their own company and an enviable lifestyle. Nadine fits her role as Chairman of the school board, secretary for the Paua Industry Council and Executive Officer for the Marlborough paua industry around her family life. "Our decision to fish is what we like to call a life choice for our family - and we love it," says Nadine. |
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