Te Pāti Māori welcomes Chris Hipkins’ confirmation that Labour opposes seabed mining now that it’s in Fast Track.

Debbie Ngarewa-Packer said, “This is a massive shift from when Labour voted down my members bill to ban seabed mining when they were in government. At the time, they chose delay, industry protection, and political caution over environmental justice and tangata whenua voices.”

If Labour is serious, they’ll support legislation that puts this position into law. Words are easy. The moana needs action.

Now is the time to unite across the House and ban seabed mining for good. The evidence is clear. The public is with us. Tangata whenua have led from the front.

We call on Labour to not just oppose seabed mining in principle, but to vote for a full legislative ban when the opportunity returns.

Our moana can’t wait.

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