James Shaw says he's still pushing for the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary, despite reports it's been killed off in the coalition deal.

The deal between New Zealand First and Labour reportedly agrees to put the sanctuary on ice, in line with Winston Peters' wishes.

But the Greens leader told TVNZ's Q+A programme it's still on the table.

"Obviously, there's still a lot of issues to work through," Mr Shaw said.

"It is a complicated issue - but we are still committed to doing our best effort to making sure that it happens."

Meanwhile, Prime Minister-designate Jacinda Ardern has similarly scotched reports that the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary is on ice for her Party's first time in government. 

In a statement, Ms Ardern said, "our intention is to work alongside Maori and use our best endeavours to achieve the Kermadec Sanctuary. We will be seeking consensus and agreement with our support parties to find a resolution."