Our Seas Our Future - New Zealand

The ocean sustains big pieces of New Zealand’s economy: In 2017, maritime operations like fishing, tourism and biotechnology contributed $7 billion to their economy and supported jobs for over 30,000 people. The ocean’s cultural significance may be even more important: Their Ministry for the Environment lists the Māori people’s deep cultural connection with the ocean above the economy among their reasons for protecting the oceans, saying the sea is “inextricably linked with [their] identity, well-being and prosperity” (Ministry for the Environment, 2019). 

Despite this deep affinity for the ocean, New Zealand sees the impacts of ocean pollution every day. Sixty-five percent of their population lives within three miles of the sea, putting ocean issues in their daily line of vision. Their government is taking action on these issues, particularly plastic, recently putting into action a nation-wide ban on plastic bags (Ministry for the Environment, 2019).

Our Seas Our Future (OSOF) is a national nonprofit in New Zealand with local chapters across the country. They aim to protect New Zealand’s coastal and marine ecosystems through advocacy, education, and environmental stewardship.

Learn more