Snapper, New Zealand (Tai) Snapper are found in subtropical
regions of the western Pacific Ocean including New Zealand,
Australia, China and Japan. In New Zealand, Snapper are a
commercially important fishery. Due to prudent fisheries
management, most Snapper populations in New Zealand are stable
or recovering from their previously overfished status. Juvenile
Snapper inhabit muddy estuaries, while adults mostly inhabit
rocky reefs, but are also found in mud and sea grass habitats.
Most New Zealand Snapper are caught using longlines, which can
result in the incidental catch of seabirds. This fish may have
high levels of mercury that could pose a health risk to adults
and children. More mercury info here.