Call for Public Comment on Subantarctic Marine Protected Area Proposals

The Subantarctic Marine Protection Planning Forum invites the public to comment on a consultation document describing proposed options for marine protected areas around New Zealand’s Subantarctic Islands.

The Forum was established last year to consider options for area-based protection of marine biodiversity in the territorial seas around the Campbell, Antipodes and Bounty Island groups. The Forum is comprised of representatives from a range of stakeholder groups including M
ori, commercial fishing, environmental and science interests.

“Having such a range of interests and expertise involved in this process has been invaluable” said Paul Beverley, the Forum’s chairperson. “In addition to sourcing a wide range of information from external sources, the Forum has been able to draw on the expertise of Forum members to ensure that planning is based on the best available information.” Mr Beverley said.

Over the last 15 months the Forum has worked carefully through the steps outlined in the Government’s Marine Protected Areas Policy culminating in the release today of the public consultation document.

“The approach taken by the Forum and the proposed options identified in the consultation document reflect the international significance and World Heritage status of these islands and their surrounding waters, and the existing uses and interests in the area,” said Mr Beverley.

Once the Forum has received and considered comments, it will present final recommendations to the Ministers of Conservation and Fisheries for their consideration.

To have your say visit www.biodiversity.co.nz for full information about the Forum’s proposal and details on how to comment. The period for comment closes on Friday 31st July.