B-5 – Area 5 - Assessment of Environmental Effects 145 Section 5.14 of this AEE considers the effects of activities on freshwater species, including indigenous freshwater species and trout. No indigenous freshwater species or trout were observed during sampling of the headwater gully, nor were the habitats conducive of such species. Notwithstanding, the Native Fish and Kōura Relocation Plan to be established for the wider WNP will be implemented across all freshwater bodies to ensure that any native fish and koura are identified and relocated prior to instream works commencing. Residual effects associated with the loss of river extent (and potential in stream habitats) will be offset by stream enhancement planting, as discussed in Sections 5.15 and 6 of this AEE. The ecological values of the Ohinemuri River have remained stable and persistent throughout the current operation of the WTP. No adverse effects on the ecological values of the Ohinemuri River, and thus the habitats of indigenous freshwater species and trout have been observed. Further improvements to the quality of the WTP discharges are proposed over the period of the discharge period, as set out in Section 5.13 of this AEE, which will enhance water quality and assist the WRC in achieving the water quality and ecosystem health related attribute states set out in the NPSFM. All works within Area 5 will also be undertaken in accordance with sediment and erosion control measures to minimise the potential for sedimentation within the Area 5 waterways. In stream works associated with the establishment of a new outfall structure will also be undertaken in a manner which maintains fish passage at all times. Accordingly, the activities occurring within Area 5 will continue to ensure the habitats of indigenous freshwater species and trout are protected throughout the construction and operational phase of the project and will be consistent with Policies 9 and 10. 7.4.1.5 Policy 11 The efficient use of freshwater, the phasing out of existing over allocation and the avoidance of future over allocation is the focus of Policy 11 of the NPSFM. The Ohinemuri River is currently overallocated. While no groundwater takes and only a minor surface water take is proposed, the diversion of groundwater that recharges the Ohinemuri River has the potential to contribute to further allocation issues within the catchment. As described in Section 5.12 of this AEE, groundwater associated with the construction and operation of the GOP will be intercepted and diverted to the WTP for treatment prior to discharge into the Ohinemuri River. Similarly, surface water from within the GOP will be diverted to the WTP. The diversion of groundwater and taking of surface water in this manner will therefore avoid the activities within Area 5 contributing towards further allocation issues within the Ohinemuri River Catchment.
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