Action for the Ocean
Hundreds of people have created a digital postcard sharing what they love about the Gulf and why they want to see it restored for future generations. This collection has been shared with the MPs and decision-makers connected to the Hauraki Gulf Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill to show how important it is to so many.
WHY ARE WE CREATING POSTCARDS FOR THE GULF?
The Black Foils, Live Ocean and hundreds of ocean lovers teamed up to help turn the spotlight on the urgent need to protect and restore the Hauraki Gulf.
Postcards for the Gulf is a collaborative effort designed to show our collective love and support for the protection and restoration of the Hauraki Gulf with local politicians and decision-makers. We are doing this in response to the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill’s stalled progress in Parliament since December last year.
Thank-you to Project Kahurangi for supplying photos of the Gulf for those people who didn’t have their own on hand. This royalty-free visual library contains high-quality local New Zealand imagery and footage free to all non-profit groups, educational institutions, Iwi/Hapū and whānau kaitiaki to support their ocean conservation campaigns and communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 mission to run New Zealand’s largest foiling event & turn the spotlight on the urgent need to protect & restore the Hauraki Gulf.
Spread the word on social and get your encourage your friends and whānau to create a postcard sharing why they love the Gulf too.
Dive in and learn more about the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill.
Thank you
Massive thank you to our generous partners who made Foil4TheGulf possible, enabling 100% of the event proceeds to go directly to Live Ocean to support restoration work in the Hauraki Gulf.
