31939 (2025). Teanau Tuiono to the Minister of Conservation

31939 (2025). Teanau Tuiono to the Minister of Conservation: What evidence, if any, does the Minister have that Benthic Protection Areas offer additional protection for marine species and habitats, particularly in areas where bottom trawling does not occur?

Hon Tama Potaka: I understand that the benthic protection areas are intended to protect areas of the seabed from the impacts of fishing. I have not received any specific evidence from the Department of Conservation on the additional protection that these areas may provide for marine species and habitats.