Protect New Zealand’s Biodiversity

I propose restricting vehicle access on Surat Bay and Cannibal Bay in The Catlins. Our New Zealand sea lion inhabit Surat Bay and Cannibal Bay.

In 1999 Department of Conservation released their review “Vehicle impacts on the biota of sandy beaches and coastal dunes.” According to Gary Stephenson “Adverse effects reported as being associated with vehicle use in coastal ecosystems include destruction of dune vegetation, disturbance of wildlife, introduction of alien species, erosion, litter, and increased exploitation of marine animals.”
Prior to their return to mainland New Zealand in 1994, the New Zealand sea lion were exiled for a minimum of 300 years.
New Zealand Geographic recently posed New Zealand a question - “Can we make room for them?”

I believe to enjoy New Zealand’s beaches, we do not need to drive our vehicles on to the beach. I believe we are responsible for protecting our indigenous species under the Marine Mammals Protection Act 1978.
Featured is a letter I wrote to Otago Regional Council, Clutha District Council and the New Zealand Sea Lion Trust.