News

New Zealand shark cage diving for tourists and photographers might be in its nascent stages, but the government is already eyeing regulations over the industry. 

Local legislators have put together a bill hoping to better regulate the shark diving that takes place in the extreme south of the island nation. The goal is to make the attraction sustainable by ensuring safety for the divers, the sharks, and local swimmers.

"So obviously when you're dealing with apex predators and there's lots of different water users, we need to put in place minimum standards to keep people safe,” MP Sarah Dowie told NewstalkZB. 

Shark diving in Stewart Island is gaining popularity amongst New Zealanders and traveling divers alike. But the government are worried the safety and enthusiasm of local beachgoers might suffer as a result. Officials claim that the shark dives take place within 5 miles of a popular swimming beach. The bill has yet to be taken up for a vote. 

Listen to the full radio interview with MP Sarah Dowie, here.