The nature of economic value that society derives from the maritime area around New Zealand has been changing and growing. Therefore, it is expected that the government will need to control activities in the maritime area to maximise the benefits to New Zealand, while avoiding the negative costs. In order for the government to make informed decisions about potential controls, there needs to be fundamental research to understand the scale, nature, and location of the types of uses that occur currently and historically in the maritime area. The Sustainable Seas National Science Challenge is undertaking core research required to ensure Aotearoa New Zealand uses its marine resources in ways that sustain healthy ecosystems and provide value for all New Zealanders. At its core, the Challenge aims to foster a use of the resource that is inclusive of Māori and key stakeholders, thus delivering and enhancing existing social, economic and cultural values. The objective of this report is to establish a basis for developing measures that will support business, community, policy and regulatory actors to encourage a 'Blue Economy' in New Zealand and inform an ecosystem-based management regulatory regime.