Our ocean, Our asset: why possible UN rules must work for real kiwis

Across New Zealand, the sea is never far. Whether it’s a harbour, estuary, or open coast, it’s part of our lives — for fishing, boating, diving, and gathering kai. For many communities, it’s also a source of income and identity. That’s why the growing push from the United Nations to protect 30% of the ocean by 2030 – the “30x30” target – raises an urgent question: is top-down marine protection compatible with how New Zealanders live, work, and care for the sea?