Source: NZ Department of Conservation
Date: 15 December 2025
The marine reserves, located between Oamaru and The Catlins, were announced by former Conservation and Oceans and Fisheries Ministers in October 2023.
The Otago Rock Lobster Industry Association (ORLIA) filed a judicial review in June 2024 challenging decisions made by former Ministers in relation to the six marine reserves, with a particular focus on Te Umukōau Marine Reserve, between Moeraki and Waikouaiti.
As part of the agreed resolution, former Ministers’ decisions on Te Umukōau Marine Reserve will be subject to limited reconsideration, following additional targeted consultation about its boundary with ORLIA, other relevant objectors, environmental NGOs and Fish Mainland as participants in the proceedings, and Kāi Tahu.
The five other marine reserves are no longer affected by the court proceedings and can now be established, following the completion of legislative and gazettal processes.
DOC Director Regulatory Systems Performance Lynn Hansberry says it’s gratifying the judicial review has been resolved.
“We thank all parties for coming to an agreement now confirmed by the court.
“DOC will support the further consultation about any boundary amendments to Te Umukōau Marine Reserve and will provide advice to the Minister of Conservation on the outcomes of this process.
“We will now continue with the Order in Council and gazettal process for the five other marine reserves, which are likely to be completed in the first half of 2026.”
DOC will work in partnership with Kāi Tahu to co-manage the marine reserves once they are in place.
The marine reserves will protect important and unique coastal and estuarine habitats and the marine life within them. They were developed through the Southeast Marine Protection Forum process, as part of a network of marine protected areas designed to protect the important marine habitats and biodiversity found in this coastal region.
The remainder of the marine protected area network consists of five Type 2 marine protected areas, where some forms of fishing would be prohibited, and a kelp protection area. These will be considered by the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries under the Fisheries Act.
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