New Zealand is famous for its magnificent land, its stunning landscapes and unique species: our kea, kiwi and kauri trees. Years ago, our leaders made a courageous decision, despite fierce opposition, to protect nearly 30% of it. Today, we celebrate that as one of the best decisions ever made for this country. But 93% of New Zealand is actually ocean. Beneath the surface is a world every bit as extraordinary as the land above it, home to more than 80% of our native species. And we protect less than half of one percent of it. Who will have the courage to do for our ocean what those leaders did for our land? For the children of Aotearoa. For the generations who come after them.
