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October 08, 2025
Hauraki Gulf Protection Bill Passes, Māori Kaitiaki Call for More
Atereano Mateariki
Posted On October 8, 2025
Download AudioThe Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill has officially become law, marking a major milestone for marine conservation in Aotearoa.
The law increases protected areas in the Gulf to 18 percent, still short of the 30 percent international standard.
Co-chair of the Hauraki Gulf Forum Nicola Rata-MacDonald says it’s a significant step forward after years of united advocacy.
“We sure do love the Gulf, and it has been a generation of advocacy and leadership from all walks of communities. Mana whenua, tangata whenua, NGOs, scientists, the whole shebang. It’s been an army of united voices to protect this taonga. Yesterday, the bill passed into law, and we couldn’t be more delighted. We’re one big sea village in Tāmaki that loves this moana and want to see it flourish and thrive,” says Rata-MacDonald.
However, some are disappointed that commercial fishing will still be allowed in two high protection areas, and that explicit recognition of whānau and hapū kaitiakitanga was removed from the bill.
“I’m not really sure why that clause went in there. Perhaps it’s the current climate of the day? But one thing that we do know is Māori – we love and understand our responsibilities, and we will continue to look after this beautiful taonga, for all of our children,” says Rata-MacDonald.
Rata-MacDonald says the new law is just the beginning, with more work ahead to reach full protection for the Hauraki Gulf.
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