Green Party co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons today wished a flotilla of New Zealand boats a safe journey as they prepare to set out on Sunday to protest a shipment of nuclear material passing through the Tasman Sea.

"The Green Party have a great deal of respect for the crews of these seven boats for their sacrifice and support them to the hilt in their efforts to highlight the unacceptable risk of nuclear fuel reprocessing which includes shipping highly dangerous nuclear materials around the world," she said.

The flotilla will depart from the Bay of Islands on Sunday and will meet up with an Australian flotilla before rendezvousing with the shipment as it passes through the Tasman on its way from Britain to Japan.

"This will be a peaceful protest which will not try to interfere with the passage of this shipment. It will be a silent vigil and an expression of New Zealanders' disgust," said Ms Fitzsimons.

The Green Party will be represented by party member Jack Elphick who will be on board a boat.

"With parliament now back in session the passage of this shipment, and the risks that come with it, will add to the pressure on this Government to support my bill which would outlaw all nuclear shipments from New Zealand's 200 mile exclusive economic zone.

"The Government should bear in mind that this shipment is the tip of the iceberg and many more are scheduled to follow. It is time this Government got staunch on this issue and reclaimed our international leadership on the risks of nuclear technology.

"On behalf of the vast majority of all New Zealanders the Green Party of Aotearoa acknowledge the bravery and commitment of these sailors and wish them a safe travel and return," said Ms Fitzsimons.

Jeanette Fitzsimons MP: 07 868 6641, 025 586 068 Jonathan Hill (press secretary): 04 470 6719, 021 440 090

© Scoop Media