Te Moananui Sanctuary involves a collaborative effort to establish a vast, interconnected network of protected marine areas spanning the Pacific Ocean. This initiative goes far beyond simply drawing lines on a map; it represents a fundamental shift in how we approach ocean conservation. At its heart is the recognition that whales are not just isolated creatures, but integral to the health and vitality of the entire Pacific ecosystem. The sanctuary aims to create safe havens where whales can thrive, free from the threats that currently plague them.

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Initially encompassing 12.5 million square kilometres across Polynesia, with the potential to expand to over 20 million square kilometres to include the wider Pacific, Te Moananui is designed to facilitate the natural behaviours of whales, including breeding, feeding, and migration. Central to the sanctuary's approach is the integration of traditional knowledge and practices, such as the use of dynamic rāhui. Rāhui, a traditional Polynesian practice of placing a temporary prohibition on resource use in a specific area, offers a powerful and culturally relevant tool for managing and protecting these vital habitats. By combining this ancient wisdom with modern conservation science, Te Moananui seeks to create a model for ocean protection that is both effective and respectful of Indigenous rights and perspectives.

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The establishment of Te Moananui Sanctuary is not just about protecting whales; it's about safeguarding the entire Pacific Ocean and, by extension, the health of our planet. Whales play a crucial role in maintaining ocean health, acting as "marine gardeners" by distributing nutrients and supporting the growth of phytoplankton, the base of the marine food web. They also sequester significant amounts of carbon, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. By creating these safe havens, Te Moananui aims to restore and enhance these vital ecological functions, ensuring a healthy and resilient ocean for generations to come. This initiative is a testament to the power of collaboration, bringing together Indigenous communities, Pacific nations, and conservation organisations in a shared commitment to protect these magnificent creatures and their ocean home.