EDS pays tribute to the life of Dr Bill Ballantine
EDS expresses regret at the passing of Dr Bill Ballantine at 78 years of age.
“Bill made an enormous contribution to marine conservation during his lifetime,” said EDS Policy Director Raewyn Peart.
“He was a man well ahead of his time, being instrumental, along with Professors Val Chapman and John Morton, in achieving the passage of the Marine Reserves Act in 1971.
“He also played a key role in the establishment of the Cape Rodney-Ōkakari Point marine reserve, the first marine reserve in New Zealand and possibly the world.
“Bill’s inspiration has resulted in numerous marine protected areas being created around New Zealand and throughout the world. His legacy is enormous.
“EDS is grateful for the support Bill has given to our work over the years. I was fortunate to have interviewed Bill for a book project earlier this year and he was both generous with his time and knowledge.
“I spoke to Bill just last week at the Hauraki Gulf Forum seminar and he was still active and keenly interested in our marine conservation work.
“At a personal level, I had great respect for his brave leadership on marine issues,” concluded Ms Peart.
ENDS