The Commerce Commission has received an application from Salmon Smolt New Zealand Limited seeking clearance to acquire the assets of Silverstream Hatchery from the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research Limited.

Salmon Smolt New Zealand Limited is a joint venture formed by six firms, which are predominantly involved in salmon farming in the South Island: Mount Cook Salmon, Akaroa Salmon New Zealand Limited, Island Aquafarms Limited; High Country Salmon Limited, Benmore Salmon 2001 Limited and Sanford Limited. NIWA is one of nine New Zealand Crown Research Institutes.

Silverstream Hatchery supplies eyed salmon eggs and salmon smolt on a commercial basis to salmon operators and recreational organisations.

In considering the application, the Commission's role is to determine whether the acquisition has the effect of substantially lessening competition in a market.

A public version of the application is available on the Commission's website www.comcom.govt.nz under the Clearances Register.