Photo by Romey van Ravenstein 

Kia ora Friend,

What a crazy few months it's been. The response to the Kill the Bill campaign has been overwhelming. Together we made a lot of noise. 

But the Fisheries Amendment Bill is not dead…Yet. The only way to stop this Bill is by keeping the pressure on. 

Want to know how to help and the next steps for the Bill? Come chat to the LegaSea team at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show at ASB Showgrounds from Thursday, 14 May. We'd love to see you there.

Consultation is over, but the battle has just begun

Public submissions on the Fisheries Amendment Bill have now officially closed. The public verdict is clear. Kiwis want the Bill scrapped. 

At least 33,000 people submitted in opposition to the Fisheries Amendment Bill.

OUR SUBMISSION

LegaSea worked for months with the New Zealand Sport Fishing Council, New Zealand Angling & Casting Association and New Zealand Underwater Association to develop a response to the complex proposals in the Amendment Bill. 

It was a relief to get it done and expose the Bill's deep flaws. It was just as rewarding to capture our collective knowledge into one document.  

Our executive summary is here. The full noise 58-page submission for the bravehearts is here.

SELECT COMMITTE HEARINGS

Last Thursday's oral hearings hosted by the Primary Production Select Committee reinforced the strength of public concern. Submitters from all walks of life spoke passionately about their concerns with the Bill and how it will affect our collective ability to enjoy a healthy and abundant moana.

Among those speaking against the Bill were a brave nine-year-old girl, a daycare teacher, keen fishos, marine scientists and an ex-commercial fisher. It was a special display of how deeply Kiwis care about our fisheries. 

THANK YOU!

To every single person who took the time to make a submission - thank you. You showed up, spoke out and made a difference.

This movement wouldn't have been possible without the support of people across the country, including Matt Watson, Darren Shields, Kurt Eklund, One Ocean Project, and many others who rallied support and encouraged Kiwis to submit.

Our fight against the Bill has been a hard-fought battle, but seeing tens of thousands of New Zealanders stand together has made every bit of effort worthwhile.

THE FIGHT FOR OUR FISH ISN'T OVER

The Select Committee will hold another round of oral submissions this Thursday, 14 May. Click here to tune in to watch the hearings live.

The Committee has until August 6 to report back to Parliament with any recommendations or changes to the Bill.

Politicians want to pass this Bill before the November election. We have the power to stop them, but only if we keep the pressure on.

LETS KILL THE BILL 

We're standing up for what's best for our fisheries and the interests of all New Zealanders. We will keep fighting to stop the Amendment Bill. But we can't do it alone.

HOW TO HELP

1. Email your local MP and urge them to reject the Bill.
2. Donate or become a LegaSea Works Partner. 
3. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to stay up to date.

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