“Te Moana that surrounds Aotearoa is life.” - Matthew Edmonds

“Te Moana that surrounds Aotearoa is life.

As a surfer there is no compromise when it comes to preserving the ocean and the environment in its natural state.

Seabed mining goes against every part of this. It is exploitation driven by profit.

For the miners to make statements like “it’s a desert” and “no damage created by plume” is outrageous and ignorant.

Our Iwi have stated a clear “No” to seabed mining. Public submissions have unanimously stated a clear “No”.

The EPA has rejected various applications. I am happy to also state publicly a clear “No” to such activities as it breeches both indigenous rights and environmental stewardship.”

- Matthew Edmonds, Te Kaihau o Kupe, Whanganui.