Introduction
Whales hold a special place in the hearts of New Zealanders. They are an important part of our natural and cultural heritage. Long before European colonisation Māori people had benign contact with whales during coastal and ocean-going travel. I understand that whales, especially sperm whales, were regarded as chiefly figures. As is told in the story of "Whale Rider", some iwi acknowledge their descent from ancestor whales.
Although we have a whaling heritage, over forty years ago we realised the plight of these animals. We changed from hunters to protectors. New Zealand has since played an important leadership role in international conservation efforts, and I am committed to continuing this proud record.
So strandings of these magnificent animals on our beaches distresses us. Many members of the public have made extraordinary efforts to try to save stranded whales. Sadly not all these attempts are successful, and for the larger whales it is just not possible.
The legacy of whales lives not just in our memories, but also in the bone they leave. This bone is treasured, and may be crafted into taonga and works of art. Domestic trade of this whale bone is also a part of our heritage, heritage that should be preserved.
The Marine Mammals Protection Act contains cumbersome and unworkable provisions to manage this trade. I believe that we can protect both our cultural heritage and living whales by simplifying and improving the way we control domestic trade in whale bone. I am convinced that such trade in whale bone from whales that have stranded on our beaches has not, and will not, jeopardise our conservation efforts.
I also believe that there is a profound relationship between Māori and whales and that this deserves to be better recognised.
This discussion paper puts forward proposals to introduce an improved regulatory regime to manage domestic trade in whale bone, and to recognise the role that Māori play in managing whale strandings. I encourage you to consider these proposals and to give your comments.
Chris Carter
Minister of Conservation
29 October 2007
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