Restoring the Seabed
The Elfenworks Foundation is supporting a four-year ocean restoration research project spearheaded by The Nature Conservancy (TNC) in New Zealand. This project explores the use of green-lipped mussels to help restore the sea bed, foster biodiversity, improve food security, and provide a source of income to local mussel farmers. Read their post on how aquaculture can contribute to marine ecosystem recovery and support communities and local economies .
As TNC notes, aquaculture provides "over half of the global seafood supply," and ever-increasing demand requires new approaches that improve biodiversity and strengthen local economies, especially where habitat loss due to over-fishing, development or pollution are involved. This program is "exploring how some forms of aquaculture can contribute to marine ecosystem recovery — while also supporting food production, livelihoods and commercial outcomes."
A Shared Vision
This project's vision is to foster these goals, in alignment with the vision expressed by Te Arikinui Kuini Ngā Wai hono i te Pō, the Māori Queen, as conveyed during her March, 2026 speech at the Royal Regatta. There, she focused on environmental action, cultural unity, integrity, purpose and enduring strength:
"Being Māori is speaking our language. It is taking care of the environment. It is reading and learning about our history. It is the choice to be called by our Māori name. There are many ways to manifest being Māori, not just in times of protest."
Te Arikinui Kuini Ngā Wai hono i te PōResearch and Updates
The study, which has far-reaching implications for ocean restoration worldwide, encompasses scientists from the University of Auckland, Māori iwi with skills in fishery management, as well. Although unique in New Zealand, the issues are global, and we expect it to have lasting benefits that ripple out to other ocean habitats.
We will report progress here on this page, so check back again for updates!