Mark your calendars — June 8th is World Oceans Day and this years theme is sustainable fishing!
What is world oceans day and why does it matter?
It is a global celebration of our blue planet and a call to action to protect the oceans that connect us all. Our oceans cover over 70% of the Earth’s surface, regulate the climate, provide the oxygen we breathe, and are home to an incredible diversity of life. Yet they’re under increasing threat from overfishing, plastic pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. World Oceans Day is a chance to come together and commit to safeguarding the oceans — not just for today, but for future generations.
Here at Dive HQ Wellington we want to celebrate this day with action! Join us for a Clean-Up Dive on Sunday 8th of June and be part of the movement to keep our marine environments thriving!
Sustainable fishing – the theme for this year
This year’s theme, supported by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), encourages people around the world to “Choose Sustainable Seafood” and make small changes that can lead to a big difference. Choosing certified sustainable seafood is one way we can all reduce pressure on fragile ocean ecosystems.
What does sustainable fishing mean?
MORE FISH!
Sustainable fishing is about harvesting seafood in a way that maintains healthy fish populations, protects marine habitats, and supports coastal communities. With over a third of global fish stocks overfished, responsible practices are more important than ever. By choosing certified sustainable seafood, we help prevent overfishing and bycatch, protect biodiversity, and ensure seafood remains a vital, low-carbon food source for future generations. Sustainable fishing also means taking only what we need and following local laws and regulations when collecting kai moana. Check out https://www.mpi.govt.nz and download their app to know the fishing rules in your area. Sustainable fishing also supports livelihoods and helps preserve ocean ecosystems in the face of climate change and growing global demand.
MORE COLOUR!
Marine biodiversity in Aotearoa’s waters is incredibly rich and unique, supporting everything from giant kelp forests to endemic species like the Hector’s dolphin and New Zealand hoki. Fishing has had the greatest impact on marine biodiversity in the last 50 years. The more biodiversity becomes depleted; the less nature can provide the food and economic and cultural benefits it currently provides to humanity. This biodiversity is vital to the health of our moana (ocean) and the communities that depend on it. However, threats like overfishing, bycatch, pollution, and climate change are putting marine ecosystems under pressure. Sustainable fishing practices—like those used in certified New Zealand fisheries—help protect our taonga species and ocean habitats. By choosing seafood with the blue MSC tick, reducing plastic waste, and supporting local conservation efforts, we can all play a role in protecting our oceans for generations to come.
Where to find sustainable seafood in Aotearoa?
Looking for sustainable seafood in New Zealand? Just keep an eye out for the blue MSC fish tick label when shopping or dining. This label means the seafood is traceable to a certified sustainable fishery. In Aotearoa, you’ll find MSC-labelled options in major supermarkets like New World and Woolworths NZ, particularly in the canned and frozen sections. Choosing MSC-certified seafood—such as hoki or Alaskan salmon—supports well-managed fisheries and helps protect our unique marine ecosystems for future generations.
Join Our Clean-Up Dive – June 7th
To celebrate and take real action, Dive HQ is running a local Clean-Up Dive on Sunday June 8th!
It’s the perfect opportunity to give back to the ocean, connect with fellow divers, and make a tangible difference beneath the surface.
🗓 Date: Sunday, 8th June 2025
📍 Location: tbc
🕒 Time: 9:45am at the Dive Site
📦 What to bring: Dive gear, mesh bags (if you have them), a positive attitude — and your passion for the ocean!
Whether you’re a certified diver or just passionate about ocean health, we’d love to see you there.
Other Ways You Can Help
- Look for the blue MSC label when buying seafood
- Reduce single-use plastics
- Support local marine conservation groups
- Follow all local laws and regulations when collecting kai moana (https://www.mpi.govt.nz)
- Educate friends and family on ocean issues
- Take only photos, leave only bubbles when you dive
Let’s Dive for Change
Every action, no matter how small, helps build a wave of change. Join us as we dive in — for cleaner oceans, thriving marine life, and a healthier planet. 🌏🐠💙
If you’re keen to sign up for the Clean-Up Dive or have questions, drop us a message or visit us in-store.
Together, we can make every dive count.