Ngāi Tahu and the Department of Conservation have launched five new marine reserves along the Otago and South Canterbury coast. The protected areas stretch from near the Waitaki River down towards Milton. Together, they cover more than 300 square kilometres of coastal sea.
The network is called Te Au Roa o Te Rakihouia, which means The Long Wake of Te Rakihouia. It was launched at Ōtākou Marae in Dunedin with iwi members, DOC staff and officials attending the ceremony. The name honours Te Rakihouia, who is remembered in Ngāi Tahu traditions as the first person to journey along the east coast of Te Waipounamu.
From July 1, fishing, harvesting and mineral extraction will not be allowed inside the reserves. These “no-take zones” are designed to protect reefs, marine mammals and many sea species. DOC has described the reserves as “national parks of the sea” because they give important ocean areas a chance to recover and thrive.
Ngāi Tahu and DOC will share responsibility for looking after the reserves. Rangers from both groups will help with daily care, research and monitoring. Ngāi Tahu leaders said the coast is deeply connected to their history, customs and role as guardians of the environment. Officials hope the partnership will become a strong example of how communities and government can protect nature together.
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