MEDIA RELEASE
5 OCTOBER 1999
SMITH APPROVES NELSON NORTH MARINE RESERVE
Conservation Minister Nick Smith today announced his approval of the 948 ha Marine Reserve between Cable Bay and the
Glen, north of Nelson, as proposed by the Nelson Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society, with small changes to the
southern and northern boundaries in response to submissions.
"I have carefully considered the 82 objections and 418 submissions in support, and determined that the proposed reserve
does meet the requirements of the Marine Reserves Act and should be gazetted. I have now formally written to the
Ministers of Fisheries and Transport seeking their concurrence, which is the next step to legally establish the
reserve."
The application for the reserve between Glenduan (13 km north of Nelson City) and Ataata Point was lodged earlier this
year. It is the 17th reserve to receive approval under the 1974 Marine Reserves Act and the 14th by National since 1990.
"I have made small changes to the boundary in the north to ensure that the northern boundary matches the southern
boundary of the Taiapure which has been applied for by Ngati Tama. The change in the southern boundary will allow small
boats to be launched and retrieved at the Glen without having to pass through the marine reserve. The changes do not
substantially change the conservation benefits of the reserve. All objectors will receive a letter explaining the detail
of the decision and the reasons for it."
"The establishment of a marine reserve is a highly contentious process. Everybody thinks they are a good idea but nobody
wants them anywhere near where they might want to fish. The reserve will still leave 98% of Tasman Bay open to
recreational fishing. We need to set aside areas for permanent protection and for future generations."
Mr Smith said the reserve would be gazetted after the formal process of concurrence was completed. This would be
followed by an information campaign to ensure people know where the reserve is.
"This reserve is the culmination of years of consultation and discussion. I hope we can conclude the final processes in
time for the new millennium. I can think of no better way to start a new century than by setting aside a significant
part of our coast and waters for conservation."
ENDS