National Party Proposes Fisheries Reforms and Marine Reserves for Hauraki Gulf
What happened
The National Party proposed new fisheries policies for the Hauraki Gulf, including establishing new marine reserves and expanding the Goat Island reserve. The proposals include a complete ban on ring-net fishing in high protection areas and a ban on the commercial sale of marlin. The party also announced a $20 million 'fish tech innovation fund' intended to help reduce the impact of bottom trawling.
From rnz.co.nz
Why it matters
The proposals aim to increase protections in New Zealand's exclusive economic zone, with a goal of reaching 50 percent protection by 2040. The policies directly affect commercial fishing operations and the seafood supply chain, while the innovation fund targets improvements in fishing gear.
Environmental Defence Society supports proposals for stronger environmental protections in the Hauraki Gulf.
From rnz.co.nz