Marine protected areas are an important tool in ensuring that our marine biodiversity is maintained in a healthy state.
There are three levels of marine protection in New Zealand:
- Type 1 Marine Protected Areas: Marine reserves
Generally known as marine reserves, these are our highest level of marine protection established under the Marine Reserves Act 1971. - Type 2 Marine Protected Areas
These marine protected areas are protected under legislation and provide protection from the negative effects of fishing. - Other marine protection tools
Similar to Type 1 and 2, but don't protect as much biodiversity as Type 1 and Type 2 areas.
DOC is responsible for the implementation of new marine reserves, and the management and monitoring of existing marine reserves.