Dr Bill Ballantine acknowledged

Hauraki Gulf Forum Chairman John Tregidga today paid tribute to Dr Bill Ballantine, who passed away this week.

“Bill was instrumental in creating our marine reserves legislation and one of the world’s first marine reserves at Leigh, where he lived, despite considerable opposition at the time.

“His legacy is a much greater understanding and appreciation of the importance, functioning and vulnerability of our marine environment.

“Bill was able to attend our Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Seminar last week at which we acknowledged his work and the relevance of research at Goat Island Marine Reserve for future management.

“Our thoughts are with Bill’s family and friends.”

ENDS