Site-specific Assessments of Environmental Effects

B-2 – Area 2 - Assessment of Environmental Effects 136 extent and representativeness of indigenous biodiversity is enhanced such that a net gain will be achieved within this area. 7.6.2.3 Riparian Margins and Esplanade Reserves Objectives 1 and 2 of Section 7.3 of the HDP relate to the management of public access to waterbodies, and seek the following outcomes: sustainably manage the margins of waterbodies to maintain or enhance natural character, indigenous biodiversity, water quality, and aquatic and adjoining terrestrial habitats;259 and the maintenance and enhancement of public access to the margins of waterbodies in a manner that is compatible with the preservation of conservation values and does not unreasonably interfere with the landowner’s ability to use and enjoy the land.260 The associated policies focus on the use of the legislative mechanisms in the RMA to secure esplanade reserves and strips on subdivisions,261 and the HDC negotiating to either have the land vested or set aside on a voluntary basis.262 As noted with respect to indigenous biodiversity and significant natural areas in Section 7.5.1.3 above, an extensive 56,000 m2 of riparian planting is proposed within Area 2. This planting is expected to contribute towards enhancement of the natural character, indigenous biodiversity, water quality and aquatic and adjoining terrestrial habitats. It will also provide a newly planted corridor between any existing areas of indigenous biodiversity within Area 2 that are located near but not connected to Coromandel Forest Park.263 The activities proposed within Area 2 will also not result in any new impediments to public access along the Mataura River or to the Mataura Wetland. The surrounding land is currently held in private ownership. No change is proposed to this access arrangement as part of this resource consent application.264 The management and associated access to the margins of waterbodies within Area 2 will therefore contribute towards the outcomes described in Objectives 1 and 2 of Section 7.3 of the HDP being achieved. 259 Objective 1, Section 7.3, Hauraki District Plan. 260 Objective 2, Section 7.3, Hauraki District Plan. 261 Policy 1(a)(ii), Section 7.3, Hauraki District Plan. 262 Policy 1(a)(v), Section 7.3, Hauraki District Plan. 263 Objective 1, Section 7.3, Hauraki District Plan. 264 Objective 2, Section 7.3, Hauraki District Plan.

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