17 Jun 2025
Photo of Kaikoura, New Zealand, by Helen Stegney New Zealand, home to one of the world’s largest exclusive economic zones (EEZs), is under increasing pressure to enhance its marine conservation efforts. Despite its vast ocean territory, less than 1% is designated as highly protected, falling short of the nation’s commitment to protect 30% of […]
15 Mar 2020
In 2000, New Zealand established the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. This was the first marine national park in the country, covering 13,900 sq km (5,370 sq mile). The park’s objective was to protect the gulf’s “life-supporting capacity”, its nature and its history. The legislation required local councils and government departments with jurisdiction over the gulf […]
06 Oct 2015
New Zealand’s Prime Minister, John Key, announced on 28 September 2015 that his nation plans to create a South Pacific marine sanctuary the size of France, saying it would protect one of the world’s pristine ocean environments. The Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary would cover an area of 620,000 square kilometers about 1,000 kilometers off New Zealand’s […]