PHOTO: DOCConservationists are celebrating five new coastal Otago marine reserves being given the green light — a milestone they say has been three decades in the making. Following a judicial review, the High Court at Wellington this month resolved to proceed with the creation of five out of six proposed marine reserves between Oamaru and the Catlins. However, the Otago Rock Lobster Industry Association took the matter to court over the decision-making for the new reserves. The marine reserves and associated marine protected area network were announced by then Conservation Minister Willow-Jean Prime and Oceans and Fisheries Minister Rachel Brooking. The Department of Conservation said the gazettal process for the five marine reserves was likely to be completed in the first half of next year.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 29, 2025 15:35 UTC