In an uplifting convergence of minds, the inaugural Blue Talks event unfolded in Wellington last week, hosted by the Blue Cradle Foundation in collaboration with the French Embassy, Marine Communications, and Diplosphere.

This event marked a pivotal moment in our collective journey towards the 3^rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3), designed to implement SDG 14 – Life Below Water scheduled for June 2025 in Nice. Co-chaired by the governments of France and Costa Rica, UNOC3 holds the promise of being a crucial platform where the global community unites to address the most pressing challenges facing our oceans.

Te Papa Tongarewa Museum of New Zealand was abuzz with energy on March 1^st, embodying the enthusiasm and dedication of participants who came together for a shared cause – the sustainable future of our oceans.

The event opened with a welcome by Te Ātiawa’s Peter Jackson, who not only set the tone for the day but also led the room in a waiata. The waiata served as a poignant reminder that our journey toward ocean sustainability is grounded in respect for the land, its people, and the cultural heritage that binds us all.

Following Mr Jackson, the Ambassador of France HE Ms Laurence Beau expressed France’s commitment to ocean conservation. Her words resonated, setting the stage for a morning of meaningful discussions and collaboration. Ambassador Beau’s presence underscored the importance of international partnerships in addressing global challenges, reinforcing the shared responsibility we all bear for the health of our oceans.

A compelling video presentation by French Ambassador to the Ocean and Poles, Olivier Poivre d’Arvor, was introduced by Ms Beau, further emphasising the interconnectedness of our global oceans and the urgency of the challenges we face.

At the heart of the event was a thoughtful panel discussion moderated by James Nikitine from the Blue Cradle Foundation. Panellists Julie Hall, Director of Sustainable Seas Challenge at NIWA; Raewyn Peart, Policy Director at Environment Defence Society; and Mere Takoko (Ngāti Porou, Te Whānau a Apanui, Rongowhakaata), Vice President of Conservation International Aotearoa, brought their unique perspectives to the forefront. The panel shared their hopes and concerns as we move towards UNOC3, as well as their personal connections to the ocean.

An integral aspect of the first Blue Talks was the emphasis on engaging with New Zealand stakeholders. Recognising Aotearoa’s role as a guardian of marine biodiversity and a champion of sustainability.

As we extend our heartfelt gratitude to all attendees and participants, including the invaluable contributions of Te Ātiawa’s Peter Jackson, Ambassador HE Ms Laurence Beau, and Ambassador Olivier Poivre d’Arvor, we recognise the significance of their roles. The first Blue Talks allowed participants to articulate their aspirations for 2025 and engage in meaningful discussions, transcending geographical boundaries and fostering a shared vision for a sustainable future.

Special acknowledgement goes to the esteemed panellists – Julie Hall, Raewyn Peart, and Mere Takoko – whose insights illuminated the complex challenges facing our oceans. Their diverse expertise showcased the multifaceted nature of the issues at hand, underscoring the importance of collaborative and informed action.

In closing, the Blue Cradle Foundation is immensely proud of the collaborative efforts that made the Te Whanganui-a-Tara/Wellington Blue Talks a success. As we navigate the path towards UNOC3, we look forward to our upcoming Blue Talks in Ōtautahi/Christchurch and Tāmaki Makaurau/Auckland.

Written by Sam Prime.