Cook Islands creates huge Pacific Ocean reserve

THE Cook Islands has created one of the world’s largest marine sanctuaries, protecting a vast swathe of the Pacific Ocean more than three times the size of France

THE Cook Islands has created one of the world’s largest marine sanctuaries, protecting a vast swathe of the Pacific Ocean more than three times the size of France.

Legislation setting up the 1.9 million square kilometre reserve passed through the tiny nation’s parliament late on Thursday.

Environmentalist and former Kiwi rugby league international Kevin Iro, who first proposed the idea more than five years ago, said it was a landmark achievement that would help preserve the ocean for ­future generations.

“It’s a historic time, particularly because everyone supported it, including our traditional leaders who spearheaded the whole thing,” he told AFP.

The Cook Islands has a population of just 10,000 and its 15 islands have a combined landmass of 236sq km, barely the size of Washington DC.

But its isolated position in the Pacific, about halfway ­between New Zealand and ­Hawaii with no near neighbours, means it has a huge maritime territory.

Mr Iro said Cook Islanders had an affinity with the ocean and viewed it as sacred but overfishing and pollution had damaged the marine ­environment.

He said the marine reserve, known as Marae Moana, would give the environment a chance to heal, allowing the islanders to protect their legacy.

“When I moved back here (from New Zealand) about 16 years ago I saw what was happening to the lagoons and reefs and really wanted to protect them for my kids,” he said. “I want them to have the same experience I did as a boy.”

The idea is not to ban commercial fishing or mineral exploration outright, but to ensure it is carried out in a sustainable manner.