Battle of beaches could be in Parliament's hands

Opponents of a proposed marine reserve on Waiheke Island are taking their case to Parliament.

They're submitting a petition from almost 3000 people, against a reserve they say would impact on the island's northern beaches and residential areas.

But Waiheke Local Board deputy chairwoman Shirin Brown says the impact would be minimal, and shouldn't include a ban on dogs.

She reckons the reserve would be a net positive for the island.

"You still have 99.5 percent of the Gulf that is still not a marine reserve. Fishing improves near a marine reserve and I think it would be another tourist offering for Waiheke. One of many."

Ms Brown says most people agree with the reserve, but some disagree about whether it should extend to the shore.

"One approach would be to exclude that area. The issue with that is that some people feel that it would be nice to be able to take your children to a family beach that also has amazing marine life in it."

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Battle of beaches could be in Parliament's hands

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