12621 (2026). Teanau Tuiono to the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries

12621 (2026). Teanau Tuiono to the Minister for Oceans and Fisheries: Is the Minister aware of reports that dozens of marine mammals, including protected species, were killed inside marine mammal sanctuaries during the 2024–25 fishing year; if so, what action, if any, has been taken or will be taken in response?

Hon Shane Jones: New Zealand has a strong framework in place to protect marine mammals. Most fisheries bycatch involves non-threatened species. There are strict protections are in place for threatened species. Protections are regularly reviewed by Fisheries New Zealand to ensure they are targeted effectively.