The Green Party supports Conservation Minister Kiritapu Allan’s announcements today that the government intends to review the 1953 Wildlife Law and advance work on conservation law reform.

“Our native wildlife, especially endangered species, needs effective protection, and there are significant gaps in the current law,” said Green Party conservation spokesperson Eugenie Sage.

“The Wildlife Act is over 60 years old and does not reflect urgent priorities, including respecting Te Tiriti o Waitangi and tackling the climate crisis.

“The twin challenges of a climate crisis and a biodiversity crisis mean that we must prioritize Paptūānuku. Our human well-being depends on it.

“Currently, the Wildlife Act allows bottom trawling by the fishing industry to destroy allegedly ‘protected’ species such as ancient black corals with impunity. It did not allow the ministry or minister to regulate the “disturbance” of protected species, such as the PÅ«tiki Bay kororā on Waiheke Island, and the clearance process for scientists wishing to collect and research of native species is heavy.

“Government action to better protect native wildlife and their habitats is welcome. The Green Party recommends a new law on endangered species to allow better recognition and protection of endangered plants.

“The reform of the law on marine reserves and the new legislation on marine protected areas, which includes our exclusive economic zone, is also a high priority for the Green Party,” said Eugenie Sage.

The proposed Global Oceans Treaty aims for a “30% by 2030” target on the high seas, beyond state jurisdiction. The United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity has also proposed a goal of protecting at least 30% of the world’s land and seas by 2030. The Green Party wants to protect 30% of our ocean space by 2030.

“There is an urgent need for a network of marine protected areas and sanctuaries thanks to new legislation. This legislation must respect Rangatiratanga and Kaitiakitanga, be flexible, purpose-designed and recognize the diversity of marine life.

“We need legislation that ensures the protection of migratory corridors for commercial fish species such as tuna, and important foraging and foraging areas for seabirds. This legislation should include better protection mechanisms. and management of customary and recreational fisheries, and support for taiāpure and mātaitai.

“Wider preparatory work on conservation law reform is reported in the roadmap released by the government. The Green Party is pleased that this includes a firm commitment to the implementation of the 2020 Te Mana o te Taiao – Aotearoa Biodiversity Strategy in New Zealand, an essential element of the Party’s cooperation agreement with the Party. Labor, ”said Eugenie Sage.