Councils continue collaboration on shared marine pest rules
Work continues on a shared approach to managing marine pests across the upper North Island, as the four northernmost regions join forces to make it easier for boaties and operators to protect our waters.
Northland Regional Council, Auckland Council, Waikato Regional Council and Bay of Plenty Regional Council remain committed to developing a consistent set of rules around vessel and equipment fouling—one of the key ways marine pests spread between harbours.
The programme, now called The Clean Vessel Plan, has been shaped by extensive feedback from Te Tiriti partners, boaties, commercial operators, and the wider marine community. Councils are now working directly with commercial operators to address specific feedback and refine the proposal.
This collaborative effort is supported by Biosecurity New Zealand and the Department of Conservation, who have played an important role in guiding the development of the plan.
The aim is to create one simple, effective set of rules that protect the marine environment while making compliance straightforward and consistent for all vessel operators.
Stay tuned to www.marinepests.nz for updates and opportunities to have your say.
Photo / Zoe Hawkins