By a cross and multidisciplinary approach, this report describes the natural marine environment of the islands, but also the links between people and their marine environment. It is the result of the work of over thirty local and international experts from the public and private sector. The four scientific expeditions conducted as part of this diagnosis have enabled an update of existing data and a comparison of the scientific literature with the observations on the field. This work confirms that the Austral archipelago, although little known by the public, stands out from other archipelagos of French Polynesia by the originality and state of preservation of its natural marine heritage and the richness and vibrancy of local culture linked to the great ocean.
The marine activities are central to the economy of the five main islands populated by just under 7,000 inhabitants, or 2.5% of the population of the country.
The whalewatching has become a tourist specialties Austral
Apart from local fishermen and a few professionals, marine activities (lagoons and reefs) are recreation for residents and tourists. The tourism sector is still underdeveloped with less than 80 hotel units and is oriented towards eco-tourism. With about 2,000 tourists a year, the tourism-related pressure is low. The activities vary according to the islands concerning boat trips, fishing in the lagoon, sea fishing, excursions on the motu, and more especially whale watching in Rurutu (3 providers) and Tubuai (1 provider). The whalewatching has become a tourist specialties of the Austral. The activity is perfectly regulated regarding the approach of cetaceans and their observation, and it is considered to be sustainable in the context of the existing sanctuary and the protection which benefit these marine mammals.
Each Austral island has its own specificities due to its natural resources and its cultural identity
An oceanic area of one million km2, a subtropical location, extremely varied geomorphological features, a strong endemism of coastal biodiversity, remarkable iconic species, a diverse pelagic fauna, a structured and respected “rahui”: each Austral island holds its own specificities due to its natural resources and its cultural identity, and the archipelago as a whole offers a unique conservation opportunity.
Following the common call from the archipelago and the government’s commitment to create a large Marine Protected Area in the Austral, this book is a preliminary state of play, for the definition of conservation strategies. These data will provide basic knowledge to local people and the government to develop a conservation project adapted to local needs and realities. Without a doubt, the establishment of sustainable management and conservation measures of ocean space in the Austral will be one of the challenges of the next decade for the archipelago.
