Accord Update #38

Due to overwhelming commitments on the organising committee there will not be another Hokianga Accord hui this year.

A Working Group hui was held mid-November and that is likely to be the last for 2010, unless something unexpected arises.

Unjustified wait for approval

There is no clear explanation why Ministerial approval has not been given to either Te Puna Mataitai in the northern Bay of Islands or the rahui application for Maunganui Bay (Deep Water Cove) in the southern Bay.

Both applications fulfil Ministry of Fisheries’ requirements and enjoy widespread community support.

Most encouraging for the local Kaitiaki [guardians] is the wholesome support from the Bay of Islands Swordfish Club for these measures that are designed to enhance protection of the sea and increase fish numbers.

Also pleasing is the increasing public awareness of the Kaitiaki [guardianship] responsibilities that tangata whenua have, to nurture the marine environment, fisheries and people.

This understanding has come through spending many days and nights together at Hokianga Accord hui, talking about matters of mutual concern.

Hopefully we will soon be celebrating the successful approval and implementation of both these Bay of Islands initiatives.

Management decisions

Over the past month the Accord has reviewed a number of management decisions related to earlier MFish proposals. Little account has been taken of the concerns expressed in our joint submissions. Most concerning was the need for fisheries managers to acknowledge the lack of information and be cautious until more is known. 

More precautionary management aligns with the purpose of the Fisheries Act 1996, which is to manage fisheries sustainably so people can provide for their social, economic and cultural well-being.

As Fisheries Minister it is Phil Heatley’s job to ensure there are enough fish available inshore so all New Zealanders, whether Maori or non-Maori, can provide for the needs of their children and future generations.