Blue Economy Development Pathways-Guidance

Pathways for a world-leading sustainable ocean-based economy in New Zealand, integrating economic, social, and ecological well-being with the creation of economic value and a focus on indigenous principles.

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Introduction

This document presents strategies for fostering a flourishing blue economy in New Zealand. It argues for a transition towards utilising marine resources sustainably, enhancing long-term ocean health, and ensuring intergenerational prosperity. The document develops recommendations and supporting actions for a blue economy principles-based, adaptive transitions approach to economic development that embodies the values and aspirations reflected in te mana o te moana. The recommendations made will de-risk and make investable economic activities that can be aligned with a growth agenda that emphasises ecosystem restoration, community livelihoods, and the enrichment of social and cultural values.

Analytical Insight

The document summarises the Sustainable Seas research programme into a model for blue economy transitions centred on a set of blue economy principles tailored to New Zealand's unique socio-cultural landscape. Recommendations urge adopting and embedding these principles in economic, political, and resource management practice. Special emphasis is placed on Māori economic agency, necessitating support for Māori-led business models resonant with these principles and initiatives that will actively catalyse high-value uses of resources and build place-based collective value propositions. These include encouraging restorative finance, dedicated regional development strategies, and a supportive rules regime.

Conclusions and Future Directions

The document concludes that a successful blue economy depends on enlightened investment, integrative place-based development strategies, and holistic and adaptive management regimes. Much of this can be achieved through empowering Māori economy development. The document underscores the significance of blue economy principles in reshaping business, governmental, and societal actions towards sustainability. The pivotal role of indigenous knowledge and governance is a cornerstone for a distinctive Aotearoa blue economy. Ultimately, the guidance advocates for magnifying the capacity for informed collective action, fostering both intergenerational equity and marine ecosystem resilience.

Key insights
01
Economic growth aligned with ecosystem health and community prosperity

A blue economy requires holistic environmental and economic development strategies that align the preservation and restoration of marine ecosystems with high value economic uses, community prosperity, and Māori rights, values and interests. This critical alignment necessitates transformative business practices and policy settings.

02
Amplification of Māori leadership in oceanic resource management

The document identifies the unique position of Māori as custodians and their potential to pioneer a blue economy reflecting their rights, values and cultural practices. Empowering Māori leadership in this realm offers new avenues for environmental stewardship and economic innovation.

03
Strategic prioritisation of place-based blue economy development strategies

Recognising the importance to blue economy development of mana moana, community interests, identities and values, and geographically contextual economic strategies. Prioritising place-based initiatives enacts blue economy principles and underpins the possibilities of supportive resource management .

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