Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve Human Chain

Media Release - Wednesday 16th September, 2009

The world’s first human chain around the world’s first student-driven marine reserve will be created today.

The Experiencing Marine Reserves (EMR) programme, supported by the Department of Conservation, is organising the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve Human Chain event as part of Conservation Week 2009.

1098 Northland students, parents’ teachers and community members are registered to join hands to form the chain around the landward boundary of the marine reserve at Reotahi (Motukaroro) today. 65 personnel are managing this event. Over 10 boats will form the links on the seaward boundary. Dive Tutukaka’s ‘Perfect Day’ will travel as a show of support from Tutukaka to Motukaroro and will be the media base from 12.00pm.

The huge event follows the theme of strong student and community voice and action – Kaitiakitanga – that the EMR programme embraces and the Department of Conservation fosters, says co-organiser Samara Nicholas.

“The event will help raise awareness of the marine reserve boundaries and promote community guardianship with a goal of reducing the number of infringements within the reserve. Our aim is to encourage people to take positive action and do the right thing themselves rather than presenting a challenge to compliance.”

EMR has a genuine interest in the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve, with it being utilised as part of our EMR marine education programmes including snorkelling at the Motukaroro site. EMR also runs guided community snorkel days at the Motukaroro site, co-organisers Samara, Kim and Nicki are past students of Kamo High School, which was responsible for the Whangarei Harbour Marine Reserve proposal.

“This marine reserve conserves unique marine biodiversity for the enjoyment of future generations. I am proud to have been involved in its establishment as a past student of Kamo High and co-chief organiser of this ambitious world first event,” Ms Nicholas says.

“EMR works with schools and communities throughout New Zealand offering first-hand marine experiences and encouraging action for the marine environment. It's great to be a part of such a massive event that will draw attention to the boundaries of this marine reserve through a colossal amount of community teamwork and spirit” says Northland EMR coordinator and human chain co-chief organiser, Kim Boyle.

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