B-2 – Area 2 - Assessment of Environmental Effects 109 an acceptable level, and development is managed to reduce the risks from natural hazards to an acceptable or tolerable level.67 ‘Natural hazard’ is defined in the RMA as any atmospheric or earth or water related occurrence (including earthquake, tsunami, erosion, volcanic and geothermal activity, landslip, subsidence, sedimentation, wind, drought, fire, or flooding), the action of which adversely affects or may adversely affect human life, property, or other aspects of the environment. Section 5.8 of this AEE describes the natural hazard exposure of the wider site. As set out in this assessment, the underlying geotechnical conditions and flood hazard profile of the area have been accounted for in the conceptual design of the key features of Area 2, such that these features will not present unacceptable or intolerable level of risk for those working in and around Area 2 or for areas downstream of these areas. 7.5.1.9 Soils Objective 3.25 of the RPS seeks that the soil resource is managed to safeguard its life supporting capacity, for the existing and foreseeable range of uses. Associated policies direct that: the soil resource is managed to minimise sedimentation and erosion, maintain or enhance biological, chemical and physical soil properties and retain soil versatility to protect the existing and foreseeable range of uses; 68 a decline in the availability of high class soils for primary production due to inappropriate use or development is avoided; 69 and contaminants in soils are minimised.70 With respect to these directives: Area 2 is not located within an area identified as being “high class soil”.71 Activities undertaken within Area 2 will see the area temporarily converted from agricultural farmland to mining activities. While it is anticipated that land will be reverted back to pastoral use, the conditions require that, as part of the Rehabilitation and Closure Plan, the soils on site are such that it is highly unlikely to be a risk to human health considering the post closure use of that land.72 67 Policies 13.1 and 13.2, Waikato Regional Policy Statement. 68 Policy 14.1, Waikato Regional Policy Statement. 69 Policy 14.2, Waikato Regional Policy Statement. 70 Policy 14.3, Waikato Regional Policy Statement. 71 Policy 14.2, Waikato Regional Policy Statement. 72 Policy 14.1(c), Waikato Regional Policy Statement.
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