National outlines plan to bolster Tīkapa Moana protection through commercial fishing bans

In a bid to enhance the ecological health of Tīkapa Moana / the Hauraki Gulf, former Conservation Minister Tama Potaka has signaled a commitment to strengthening protection measures for the moana. Speaking on Wednesday, 14 October 2026, Potaka outlined that should the National Party lead the next government following the November 7 general election, it would move to reinstate bans on commercial fishing in key protected zones. According to reporting by Waatea News, the proposal specifically targets two high-protection areas within the Gulf where commercial ring-net fishing is currently permitted. While there are twelve high-level protection zones already established in the region, the proposed policy aims to close the remaining gaps to ensure these sanctuaries remain undisturbed by commercial harvesting activities. Beyond the ban on ring-netting, the party's environmental platform includes a focus on the impact of bottom-trawling. While Potaka indicated that the party does not intend to implement a total ban on all net fishing that contacts the seabed at this stage, he confirmed that existing corridors for such activities would be reviewed. The goal of this review is to find improved ways to safeguard the seafloor and the broader biodiversity of the Gulf. Tīkapa Moana is a site of immense cultural and ecological significance, and these proposed measures represent a focused effort to balance commercial interests with the urgent need for marine restoration. The announcement comes as political parties ramp up their campaigns to secure the Māori electorates and the support of voters concerned with the long-term sustainability of Aotearoa’s natural resources.