Stock structure of smooth oreo dory has been studied and no genetic or morphological differences were found between New Zealand and Australia (Ward, 1996; Smith et al., 2002). Other specific study on NZ waters found some differences among some of the areas assumed but results are not yet conclusive so the following areas identified are used for assessment and management (MPI, 2014a). Black oreo and smooth oreos (spikey, black and smooth oreo dories combined) are assessed separately but managed jointly:

1. West Chatham Rise OEO 3A (smooth oreos) - managed as West Chatham Rise OEO 3A (black and smooth oreos)
2. East Chatham Rise OEO 4 (smooth oreos) - managed as East Chatham Rise OEO 4 (black and smooth oreos)
3. Southland OEO 1 and OEO 3A, Pukaki Rise OEO 6, Bounty Plateau OEO 6 (smooth oreos) - managed as New Zealand SW and Subantarctic OEO 1 and OEO 6 (black and smooth oreos)