We Say/You Say: Should the Hauraki Gulf be protected?

Reporter North Harbour News

Kia ora neighbours,

A new poll released by the Hauraki Gulf Forum has found there is overwhelming public support for more measures to protect and restore the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana.

Of over 1000 respondents, 81% said they love and have a very strong attachment to the Gulf, including its beaches, shorelines and islands. The greatest public concerns for the health of the Gulf are plastics (73% of respondents said this had the most negative impact), sewage (72%), chemicals (70%), and commercial fishing (63%).

Methods proposed to protect the Gulf include planting all waterways, re-establishing lost shellfish-beds and reefs, and banning fishing methods such as dredging and bottom-trawling that damage the sea-floor. 84% of respondents supported these actions, with less than 3% in opposition.

Do you love being in/around the Gulf, and do you think it should be protected? Share your thoughts below and don't forget to type NFP if you don't want your comment featured in the conversations section of the North Harbour News.