World-Record Swimmer Jono Ridler Delivers 73,000-Signature Petition to Parliament to Ban Bottom Trawling

Following a 1400km world-record swim, Jono Ridler presents a 73,000-signature petition to Parliament, sparking a political debate over New Zealand's marine protection laws.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 29, 2026, 2:56 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

A Monumental Feat for Marine Advocacy Jono Ridler’s arrival at Parliament marks the culmination of a grueling 1,367km unassisted staged swim that began in January. Partnering with the marine conservation foundation Live Ocean co-founded by Blair Tuke and Peter Burling Ridler used the world-record-breaking journey to focus national attention on the ecological impact of bottom trawling. The practice, which involves dragging heavy nets across the seafloor, is widely criticized by environmentalists for destroying seamounts and sensitive coral ecosystems that serve as vital breeding grounds for marine life.

Political Shift on the Horizon? National MP Grant McCallum, co-chair of the Bluegreens, accepted the petition and hinted that his party is preparing a significant policy platform regarding the marine space for the next election. While the coalition government has seen internal friction over fisheries management, McCallum indicated that National is specifically looking at protections for seamounts. "We all want to be able to go and enjoy it, and we want our grandkids to be able to go and enjoy it," McCallum stated, acknowledging that the current state of New Zealand’s oceans is "not in a great shape."

Coalition Tensions and Pragmatism The petition arrives amidst a backdrop of differing views within the governing coalition. Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones of New Zealand First has historically defended bottom trawling, citing the industry’s long history of sustainable catch. While Jones expressed respect for Ridler’s physical endurance, he maintained a pragmatic stance, stating that any policy changes would need caucus approval and must avoid "indiscriminate" impacts on the commercial fishing industry. Conversely, ACT leader David Seymour signaled opposition to destroying "new ground," suggesting a middle-ground approach where the practice is restricted to areas of repetitive use.

The "High Seas" Challenge Ridler highlighted that New Zealand remains the only country currently bottom trawling in the high seas of the South Pacific, a point of contention for international conservationists. The petition calls for a wider ban than just the high seas, advocating for a transition to more sustainable harvesting methods that allow commercial fishers to maintain a livelihood without causing permanent ecological destruction. Supporters of the ban argue that the...