Maori have just gained a stronger stake in deep water fishing

Fifty-percent iwi-owned Sealord - has become New Zealand's biggest seafood business, after buying Christchurch's Independent Fisheries.

CEO Doug Paulin says it gives Maori close to 50 percent of the quotas available.

Paulin says it's a very positive change, and they have a lot to add through te ao maori and kaitiakitanga.

More than 500 vessel-crew and staff work for Independent Fisheries, and most will stay on.