6 December 2016
DOC working through shark cage diving permit process
The Department of Conservation (DOC) says it expects to decide in the next few weeks whether to reissue permits for
shark cage diving operators off Rakiura/Stewart Island. The shark cage diving season traditionally starts on December 1.
DOC’s Southern South Island Operations Director Allan Munn, says the Department had hoped to have resolved the permit
issue by now. “We are working as fast as we can. However, the process for issuing permits is complex and has been
further complicated by the legal proceedings before the High Court.”
The High Court is still considering whether DOC has the authority to issue permits for shark cage diving, and if so,
whether it should consider public safety when issuing permits.
“The Department is aware that the shark cage diving operators have made bookings for the new season while they wait for
new permits to be issued,” Allan Munn says.
“We are working closely with the operators to ensure that the activity continues in a manner that is consistent with the
terms and conditions of their previous permits” Mr Munn says.
–Ends–