Conservation Minister Tama Potaka is facing backlash over amendments to a bill aimed at protecting 19 areas of Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf, allowing commercial fishers to continue using ring nets. Meanwhile, Australia is taking steps to protect over half of its ocean space by 2030, including the establishment of a high seas marine protection area and restrictions on seamount trawling in the South Pacific. Despite criticism, Australia’s efforts in nature repair are commendable, while New Zealand’s hesitation on conservation measures has raised concerns about its commitment to environmental stewardship.
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