New Zealand expands its first marine reserve, now four times larger, to boost conservation and fish stocks.

New Zealand’s Leigh Marine Reserve, established in 1975, celebrates its 50th anniversary as the nation’s first marine protected area. Once degraded, the site has seen kelp forests and fish populations rebound, with mature snapper and crayfish thriving and contributing to regional fisheries through spillover. Recent declines in fish numbers are attributed to the reserve’s limited size and external fishing pressure. A new law expands the reserve fourfold, protecting additional habitats like soft-sediment seafloors. Long-term data show restored ecosystems enhance resilience and may generate carbon credits, while the site draws over 350,000 visitors annually, underscoring the value of marine protection.