Ghost Fishing
Last evening’s talk was both depressing and inspirational. Rob Wilson, president of Ghost Fishing NZ, (seen on the right next to Rob Wilson) described the activities of this entirely voluntary organisation, which tries to clean up the seabed.
Originally the focus was on lost or discarded fishing gear - nets, longlines, fish traps and the like. These things, now made mainly of synthetic and rot-proof materials, can continue to catch and kill fish and other marine life for years- hence the name ghost fishing.
Ghost Fishing is part of an international network which removes this harmful stuff and disposes of it. Volunteer scuba divers and free-divers do the work, usually on ‘clean-up days’ assisted by others onshore.
Wellington Harbour is also a dumping ground for other kinds of harmful rubbish, in incredible variety. Supermarket trolleys, scooters, traffic cones, bottles and so on litter the seabed. They affect the sediment and starve it of oxygen, harming fish stocks.
Sometimes, however, it is better to leave rubbish in place rather than disturb the habitat any further. The divers have developed criteria for making these decisions.
Ghost Fishing enjoys strong recognition and support from the community: it was judged ‘Wellingtonian of the Year’ in 2017. Sadly, despite their efforts to educate people out of using the sea as a rubbish dump, it seems their work will go on forever.
Spring gardening tips
Dreaming of a garden bursting with colour and fresh produce? Shane Fairbairn, Ryman Healthcare’s Landscape Manager, shares his top tips to make it happen. You’ll be set to create a gorgeous, relaxing space in no time - grab your trowel, and let’s dig in.
Click read more for more information.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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84% Yes
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14.7% No
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1.3% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
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