Foil4TheGulf
Join our mission to make Foil4TheGulf New Zealand’s largest foiling event & turn the spotlight on the urgent need to protect & restore the Hauraki Gulf.
Saturday 24 May
The Royal Akarana Yacht Club
Okahu Bay, Auckland
WHY FOIL4THEGULF?
Join the Black Foils and Live Ocean as we take on the challenge of creating the largest foiling event in New Zealand turning the spotlight on the urgent need to protect and restore the Hauraki Gulf.
This event has been inspired by the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill’s stalled progress in Parliament since December last year.
Join us out on the water to show your support for the Bill. If you’re new to foiling we have a limited number of lessons available, or if you’d prefer to stay dry you can get behind the mission by creating a digital postcard for the Gulf.
100% of the proceeds from this event will go directly to Live Ocean to support restoration work in the Hauraki Gulf.
Create a digital postcard for your local politician sharing what you love about the Gulf and why you want to see it restored for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
About THE EVENT
Who can get involved?
All foiling craft, from beginner to expert level. Foil4TheGulf is a community event focused on bringing the wider foiling community together to raise awareness of the Hauraki Marine protection plan.
Do I need to bring my own gear?
Yes please bring your foiling gear or craft. If you do not have please email us and we can put you in touch with some foiling schools who will be present on the day.
What's the plan if the weather is bad?
We will be updating registrants via email as the forecast becomes more accurate in the lead-up to the event. Please keep an eye on your emails and on social @sailgpnzl for the latest updates.
I want to know more about Live Ocean and where the entry donations are going...
New Zealand SailGP Charity Partnership
Live Ocean is the Charity Partner for the Black Foils New Zealand SailGP Team. What this means is they provide support to us both financially through their Impact League winnings, which have gone directly towards projects we support like Blue Carbon Research, Marine Metre2 and Kelp Restoration. They also help us bring issues the ocean is facing into the global spotlight using the powerful platform sport provides, and an incredible amount of brand awareness not usually available to a young NGO.
I have more questions...
We’re happy to answer them! Drop us an email at [email protected]
About The Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Bill
What is the Hauraki Gulf / Tikapa Moana Marine Protection Bill?
This Bill is a bold step to restore the health of the Hauraki Gulf, one of Aotearoa New Zealand’s most ecologically significant marine areas. It proposes:
- Expanding two existing marine reserves;
- Creating 12 High Protection Areas (HPAs) to fully protect key ecosystems; and
- Establishing five Seafloor Protection Areas (SPAs) that protect the seabed from bottom trawling but allow fishing in the water column.
Why does Live Ocean support it?
Because the Gulf is in crisis. Overfishing, pollution, and invasive species have decimated its marine life. Live Ocean believes the Bill is a long-overdue chance to reverse this decline and secure a thriving Gulf for future generations – balancing conservation, culture, recreation, and commerce.
Contrary to some claims, this Bill is not anti-fishing. It’s pro-fish and pro-future.
What makes the Gulf so special?
The Hauraki Gulf is a biodiversity hotspot and cultural treasure, supporting fisheries, tourism, and the well-being of over 2 million New Zealanders. It’s valued at over $5 billion annually. But right now, it’s nearing ecological collapse.
Isn’t the Gulf already protected?
Barely. Just 0.4% is currently protected—far below the international target of 30% by 2030. The Bill would raise meaningful protection to around 6%, with spillover benefits across the entire marine area.
Will it stop people from fishing?
No. 93.7% of the Gulf will remain open to fishing. The Bill closes a few small but vital areas so fish populations can recover and flourish. Marine protection is proven to increase fish size and numbers – benefiting everyone in the long run.
What about commercial fishing?
Only 6% of the commercial snapper catch comes from areas that will be HPAs. Most fishing can continue – just without destructive methods like bottom trawling in sensitive areas. Healthier ecosystems mean more sustainable yields over time.
What’s the issue with proposed amendments?
Proposed changes to the Bill would allow commercial fishing in two HPAs – undermining their purpose and effectiveness. A Highly Protected Area can’t be truly protected if it’s still being commercially fished. Live Ocean urges Parliament to reconsider.
Why does the Bill allow customary fishing?
Customary fishing honours Te Tiriti o Waitangi and recognises mana whenua as kaitiaki. It’s sustainable, respectful, and a cornerstone of Māori culture and marine stewardship.
Do people support the Bill?
Yes. The Live Ocean Barometer shows that 92% of New Zealanders want better ocean protection, including 67% of recreational fishers. Over 15,000 submissions have supported the Bill. The public is ready – Parliament must act.
What’s the holdup?
Despite strong cross-party support and a successful second reading, the Bill has stalled. Meanwhile, the Gulf’s condition worsens every day. This is urgent. We can’t afford to wait.
Where can I find more information on the Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Bill?
You can check out more information about the Bill and its progress here.
Check out our Foil4TheGulf event guide to find everything you need to know for the day.
Help us make this the biggest foiling event in New Zealand! Spread the word on social and get your mates involved.
Dive in and learn more about the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill.
Thank you
Massive thank you to our generous partners who are making this event possible, enabling 100% of the event proceeds to go directly to Live Ocean to support restoration work in the Hauraki Gulf.
