A major ocean protection campaign is heading to Parliament, backed by tens of thousands of New Zealanders calling for an end to bottom trawling.
Swim4TheOcean founder Jono Ridler and environmental group Live Ocean are set to meet with MPs from across the political spectrum, carrying a petition signed by 73,647 people.
The petition will be presented to the House by Northland MP Grant McCallum, with meetings also scheduled with key decision-makers including the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries.
The campaign is calling for an end to bottom trawling, beginning with seamounts, as part of a broader push to phase out the practice entirely.
Momentum for the movement has been building since Ridler completed a 1,367 kilometre swim down the east coast of the North Island, from Waikuku Beach at North Cape to Wellington.
The 90-day journey drew national attention, culminating in a large استقبال in the capital earlier this month, and helping turn the campaign into a nationwide call for stronger ocean protection.
Supporters say the petition reflects growing concern about the impact of bottom trawling on marine ecosystems and a desire to see more sustainable practices adopted.
With the petition now formally lodged, it will be referred to a select committee for further consideration, marking the next stage in the political process.
Campaign organisers say the focus now shifts to ensuring those voices translate into action, as pressure builds on lawmakers to respond.
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