13 March 2002

Green co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons today congratulated Conservation Minister Sandra Lee on her efforts to establish a new marine reserve for Te Matuku on Waiheke Island.

"In the spirit of the Hauraki Gulf Marine park Act this proposed reserve recognises the important interface between land and water, and that protection of water always needs protection of the land-based catchment that drains into the water.

"This reserve is a substantial area, big enough to make a difference," said Ms Fitzsimons.

"This reserve will be easily accessible to a third of New Zealand's population and will help raise awareness of marine issues, where protection is lacking so far behind what we have established on land.

"I sincerely hope this reserve will meet with the approval of the two other ministers and, as the MP for the adjoining Coromandel electorate, I look forward to visiting it soon," said Ms Fitzsimons.

Ends

© Scoop Media