The Poor Knights Islands marine reserve lie slightly west of the East Auckland Current, and are influenced by the southward-flowing current of tropical water creating a home for a unique array of flora and fauna including sponges, bryozoans, ascidians, anemones, and encrusting algae. Climate change is quickly warming these waters, and with a lack of predators has resulted in the overabundance of Centrostephanus rodgersii which are indiscriminately eating the living wall communities. Through a partnership between mana moana (traditional owners – Te Whanau a Rangiwhakaahu), Government (Department of Conservation) and the University of Auckland trial removals by divers were conducted in three areas of the marine reserve. The trials were successful for recovery of biodiversity, but have raised questions about the long-term management of the species. Three management options are proposed: 1) do nothing; 2) in-situ removal of urchins (via scuba or snorkel); 3) removal by commercial divers. This presentation will evaluate the benefits and disadvantages of each approach for the long-term protection of one of New Zealand’s most unique ecosystems.