Meeting with Tama Potaka MP: Sustainable Solutions for Our Oceans and Waterways
- Natalie Jessup
- Sep 4
- 1 min read
On 4 September 2025, Endangered Species Foundation General Manager Natalie Jessup met with her local MP, Tama Potaka, who holds the portfolios for Māori Development, Conservation, Whānau Ora, and Associate Housing.
Their discussion focused on pressing environmental issues and practical solutions:
Sandmining and sustainable alternatives – Natalie shared the Foundation’s Sand Supply Report, which shows there is more than enough sand available to meet current demand, with millions of additional tonnes accessible through potential on-land mining operations. They discussed KayaSand, a Te Kauwhata-based company that uses quarry waste to produce manufactured sand. This innovative approach is part of a wider industry shift towards manufactured sand, which is more sustainable, scalable, and has the potential to create new jobs for local communities.
Protecting scallop beds and fisheries in Te Akau Bream Bay – Natalie talked about the importance of safeguarding these recovering habitats, for both biodiversity and to ensure people can continue to fish and sustain themselves in this area with healthy kai moana.
Awhi Awa | Embrace a Stream – Tama showed particular interest in this flagship programme, which shares mātauranga about ika taketake (native fish) and supports communities to restore urban waterways.
We look forward to staying in touch with Tama to continue exploring sustainable economic and environmental solutions that create job opportunities for communities across Aotearoa, while ensuring the protection of te taiao – our environment.
