Our Opinion – Practical solutions over artificial outrage

Earlier this month Hibiscus Matters covered the protest held at Army Bay, organised by the Protect Whangaparāoa Rockpools Group, calling for greater protection of the intertidal zones from overharvesting. 

We have covered the issue for some time, and I have often visited the beach and seen for myself how empty the rockpools are – almost devoid of life while numerous people continue to harvest.

The problem is straightforward. Current laws are outdated and what was once common practice, taking only what allowed and nothing else, is no longer the case.

As our population has changed, migrants have brought differing values and understanding. Gaps in the law, combined with limited awareness of environmental consequences, mean overharvesting is devastating the intertidal zone. Something must be done to protect coastal areas, or we face ecosystem collapse as entire food chains disappear.

It was notable last weekend how few birds were present. As someone said to me, “Shakespear Sanctuary Reserve is an ark while the sea is a wasteland”.

But nothing is ever straightforward. Too often, important issues are quickly hijacked for clickbait and political grandstanding, particularly when migrant communities are involved. Instead of focusing on solutions, too many people simply use inflammatory statements to boost their podcast numbers or pander to a voting base.

New Zealand is a multicultural society, and it brings immense value to everyone. I remember 1970s New Zealand, and it was without doubt one of the most boring places on the planet. Our country has developed into a hub where many cultures meet, work and live safely. It is not one I want to see change, but diversity also brings friction. Different cultures mean different values and attitudes. And this is where education, communication and understanding are vital.

The road forward to conserving our coastline is a temporary ban to allow damaged areas to recover, alongside education and communication about marine life and conservation practices. It’s also about updating our laws to reflect the reality of life today such as population growth and harvesting practices.

The intertidal zone is just one area facing environmental pressure; our waterways are under threat from pollution and poorly managed run off from farms and developments, while overfishing is threatening stocks and habitats. But when it’s not seen as politically or financially expedient, or that it might upset the wrong voting base, then we don’t see the same level of outrage from politicians and the media.

We need practical solutions, not artificial outrage, and we find those by working together as communities and pushing for legislative change that reflects the world we live in today. 

Adrienne Kohler, Editor