From Sailing Champions to Conservation Crusaders: Unveiling the Success Story of NZ's Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection

Peter Burling and Blair Tuke, both unrivalled sailors and co-founders of Live Ocean, salute the passage of the NZ’s Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Bill as a massive stride forward for the Gulf. This achievement has been central in the mission of these three-time America’s Cup victors, multiple Olympic medallists, and distinguished SailGP sailors, who initiated the Live Ocean marine conservation entity half a decade ago. Since its establishment, Live Ocean has commendably infused $3.5 million to endorse 17 Marine conservation missions.

The Hauraki Gulf, celebrated for its richness in biodiversity, has always been under Live Ocean’s spotlight. The spirited duo expresses their enthusiasm as this long-anticipated Bill will offer enhanced safeguarding to this treasured area. Blair Tuke, one half of the founding duo, commends the immense effort invoked by various community groups and individuals to realise this monumental achievement.

Live Ocean’s commitment towards raising ecological consciousness is evident in their engaging initiatives such as ‘Swim4TheGulf’ in 2023. This event saw open-water swimmer Jono Ridler swimming non-stop for 33 hours, drawing attention to the declining health of the Gulf. In June of this year, Live Ocean united with the Black Foils, New Zealand SailGP team, on ‘Foil4TheGulf’, the country’s largest foiling event, urging the delayed Bill to advance.

The organisation also partners with scientists operating in the Gulf studying kelp forest restoration, innovators working on the Caulerpa response, and researchers striving to understand the unique population of oceanic manta. Live Ocean’s proactive measures — informed by science, innovation, and outreach — ensure the future where the ocean teems with health and life. Hannah Prior, the Impact Director of Live Ocean, believes that this significant moment gives the Gulf its much-needed opportunity to restore the marine life that once flourished abundantly.