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New coastal plan for Taranaki to protect marine environment

Taranaki's iconic surf breaks are now legally protected with the signing off of Taranaki Regional Council's Coastal Plan.

Minister of Conservation Willow-Jean Prime has signed the plan, making it operative and concluding a four-year review process that incorporated public feedback to shape regulations around the use and protection of the coastal marine area in the region.

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The plan lays out legally enforceable rules for structures, disturbances, discharges, and the taking of natural resources. It protects surf breaks, native marine biodiversity, taonga species, archaeological sites, sites of historic significance to Taranaki iwi, areas with outstanding natural character and areas popular for fishing, bird watching, swimming and walking.

The statutory document promotes the sustainable management of coastal natural and physical resources and outlines regulations for discharges into the marine environment and structures like seawalls.

Craig Williamson, chair of the Council Policy and Planning Committee, states that the new plan will instil confidence in Taranaki residents regarding the protection of the region’s stunning coastal areas.

“Taranaki has some of the most beautiful coastal locations in the whole of Aotearoa, and we want to ensure these areas are protected not just now but for future generations,” says Williamson.

“We know our community is passionate about protecting these areas, too. Whether it’s for surfers to enjoy our fabulous surf breaks, people to fish for kaimoana or take a dip in their favourite swimming spot, this plan assures us that there are rules in place that preserve and safeguard these areas for the long term,” he says.

“We want to ensure our environment is protected from harm, and the Coastal Plan provides legally enforceable rules, including rules for oil and gas activities, disturbances to the seafloor and structures in the sea.”

The process of the Coastal Plan becoming operative has included opportunities for the public, tangata whenua, other councils, the primary sector and industry to make submissions, Environment Court mediation and approval by the Regional Council’s councillors before being signed off by the Minister of Conservation.

Anyone interested in the rules can download the Coastal Plan via trc.govt.nz/coastal-plan.

 

Photography: Taranaki Regional Council

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