Average shell length 70- 80mm; can grow to over 120mmSpecies native to New Zealand but similar to the Sydney rock oyster (Saccostrea commercialis). Shell more robust and smaller than Pacific oyster with no laminae on the flat, upper valve and strong ridges on the cupped, lower valve.
Occurs naturally inter-tidally in all bays and inlets in the north of the North Island. Most abundant in the Bay of Islands, Kaipara Harbour, and parts of the Hauraki Gulf. Cultivated in all these areas but being superseded by the faster growing Pacific oyster. Reaches maturity and a marketable size of 40- 50gms whole weight after about 3 years. Not marketed during the breeding season, December-April.
