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Looking after our marine areas
Bottlenose dolphins swim off
New
Zealand’s shore.
Marine areas are increasingly under demand for their resources and the Ministry has started work on new policy to minimise harmful impacts.
Improving the way we care for waters 12 to 200 nautical miles off the coast, called the marine Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), is a priority. Environment Minister David Benson-Pope, wants a robust system that will create certainty for industries operating in the EEZ and prevent damage to ocean habitats.
The Ministry is working with the Department of Conservation, Ministry for Fisheries and other key agencies to explore ways we can improve regulation of environmental impacts in the EEZ. This work relates to activities not already regulated, for example non-fisheries disturbance of the seabed and displacement of marine life.
Consultation with major stakeholders is expected to start later this year.
For more information contact Ginny McLean on (04) 439 7591 or email ginny.mclean@mfe.govt.nz.
