Murat Marine Protected Area

MPA in New Ireland Province declared 12-13 November 2023 (part of >1.5 million hectares / >16,000 km2 of new protection with the Lovongai MPA). Provides full protection for marine turtles, dugongs, whales and dolphins, and (in five of the six wards) all other shark and ray species, plus first-ever rules protecting sawfish and rhino rays. Taking these protected species - including by spearfishing - is prohibited.