New Zealand (ONLY ONE) : [Campaign Update] Long-awaited protections for the Hauraki Gulf — with a catch.

 

Hi, Since the Government tried to weaken the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill last year, you spoke up and joined thousands of others who refused to let industry interests go unchallenged. This week, the Bill finally passed its last vote in Parliament. On paper, that’s progress: after more than a decade of collaborative work across iwi, local communities, advocacy groups, and governments, this law paves the way for new protected areas to be created across Tīkapa Moana. But despite strong public opposition, the Government ultimately refused to reverse the loopholes it introduced last year — controversial exemptions that will allow commercial fishing in areas that are meant to be fully protected. Worse still, Ministers recently abandoned plans to phase out bottom trawling from the region, allowing one of the most destructive fishing practices to go on unchecked. Together, these decisions set a dangerous precedent that opens the door to future undermining of marine protection by industry lobbyists. Even so, your actions sent a powerful signal that New Zealanders want better:  Over 32,000 people signed the open letter calling for strong protections.  In November 2024, WWF-New Zealand delivered tens of thousands of signatures to cross-party MPs, alongside Greenpeace Aotearoa, Forest & Bird, and others.  Nearly 10,000 Kiwis emailed decision-makers directly, ensuring the backlash to these exemptions would be heard loudly and personally.

This should have been a resounding victory, unqualified by “buts” or caveats. Together, we showed just how much momentum there is behind stronger protections and why leaders can’t keep ducking their responsibility. So as we dust ourselves off and roll up our sleeves for the next challenge, let’s remember: less than 1% of New Zealand’s ocean is highly protected, so it’s clear we can’t stop here.  Sign and share the petition to protect 30% of New Zealand's seas by 2030.  Thank you for raising your voice for the Gulf and for joining a movement shaping a better future for New Zealand. WWF Aotearoa New Zealand and Only One.

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