Bill to protect Kermadecs deserves cross party support

All New Zealands’ political parties need to come together to give the Kermadec region the protection it deserves, said WWF today.

Green MP Gareth Hughes has just launched his Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary Bill that would set up a no-take marine reserve surrounding the Kermadec Islands out to 200 nautical miles.

“Our political parties need to put aside their differences and support Gareth Hughes’ member’s bill to protect the unique and beautiful Kermadec region, said Peter Hardstaff, WWF-NZ Head of Campaigns.

“This bill will protect one of the last near pristine ocean sites in the world, added Mr Hardstaff.

“This is an opportunity to protect this amazing region and ensure that the unique natural features and biodiversity found there are conserved now and for future generations.

The Kermadec Islands, Arc and Trench are home to species found nowhere else in the world, and new species are still being discovered. The region teems with marine life on the sea surface and down to the second deepest trench in the world which is over 10,000 metres deep. Whales, dolphins, seals, seabirds, turtles and unique thermal vent species all live in this region.

“Less than 1% of New Zealand’s oceans are fully protected. We need to develop marine protection areas in our oceans to ensure that we have healthy marine environment, said Mr Hardstaff.

“The time for action to protect our oceans is now. Providing a sanctuary around the Kermadec Islands is a great start and would help show the world that we are prepared to do our bit to look after marine areas of international significance.

ENDS

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