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Is the Minister aware of reports that dozens of marine mammals, including protected species, were killed inside marine mammal sanctuaries during the 2024–25 fishing year; if so, what action, if any, has been taken or will be taken in response?

Answered Question 12621 (2026)
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Asked by

Teanau Tuiono

List MP · Green Party

Question

  • Is the Minister aware of reports that dozens of marine mammals, including protected species, were killed inside marine mammal sanctuaries during the 2024–25 fishing year; if so, what action, if any, has been taken or will be taken in response?

Answered by

Hon Shane Jones

List MP · NZ First · Minister for Oceans and Fisheries

Answer

New Zealand has a strong framework in place to protect marine mammals. Most fisheries bycatch involves non-threatened species. There are strict protections are in place for threatened species. Protections are regularly reviewed by Fisheries New Zealand to ensure they are targeted effectively.