Shane Jones: Oceans and Fisheries Minister on his decision to scrap plans for an ocean sanctuary around the Kermadec Islands - Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive

A vast ocean sanctuary around the Kermadec Islands is now off the table.

The Government has scrapped plans for the 620,000 square kilometre marine reserve, envisioned by Sir John Key to protect unique biodiversity.

Oceans and Fisheries Minister Shane Jones says the Kermadec Islands are already well-protected.

"There's far too much misinformation, and I've had to put up with green muckery over this issue. There is already a host of protective measures there."

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