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Report
Foxton WWTP - Landscape Feasibility Study
Prepared for Horowhenua District Council
Prepared by Beca Ltd (Beca)
19 October 2015
Foxton WWTP - Landscape Feasibility Study - Beca, 2015:B15
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Revision History
Revision Nº Prepared By Description Date
1 Ben Frost Draft for Internal review 28-07-2015
2 Ben Frost Draft for client review 06-08-2015
3 Ben Frost Final 19 -10-2015
4
5
Document Acceptance
Action Name Signed Date
Prepared by Ben Frost
19-10-2015
Reviewed by Wade Robertson
19-10-2015
Approved by Andrew Watson
19-10-2015
on behalf of Beca Ltd
© Beca 2015 (unless Beca has expressly agreed otherwise with the Client in writing).
This report has been prepared by Beca on the specific instructions of our Client. It is solely for our Client’s use for the purpose for which it is intended in accordance with the agreed scope of work. Any use or reliance by any person contrary to the above, to which Beca has not given its prior written consent, is at that person's own risk.
Foxton WWTP - Landscape Feasibility Study - Beca, 2015:B15
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Contents
1 Introduction 1
2 Landscape Context 2
2.1 Existing Character, Values and Sensitivities 2
2.2 Determining the Coastal Environment 4
3 The Proposal 6
4 Potential Effects 6
4.1 Visual 7
4.2 Landscape 7
4.3 Natural Character 8
4.4 Permitted Baseline Argument 8
5 Relevant Planning Considerations 9
5.1 NZCPS 9
5.2 Horowhenua District Plan 9
5.3 Policy analysis 12
6 Recommendations 14
Appendices
Appendix 1 – Graphic Annexures
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1 Introduction
Beca Ltd (Beca) has been engaged by Horowhenua District Council (HDC) to provide a ‘high level’ report
which identifies the landscape and natural character consenting implications of the Foxton Wastewater
Treatment Plant (WWTP) irrigation scheme.
While no concept scheme has yet been developed, this report identifies the likely landscape issues and
potential risks associated with any future irrigation and additional pond storage on Matakarapa Island which
is adjacent to the Manawatu Estuary. Therefore this assessment is not intended to replicate or replace a
more thorough consideration of landscape, natural character and visual effects that will be required as part of
a future assessment of environmental effects.
The scope of this assessment includes:
� A description of the site and surrounding landscape including the nature and extent of coastal processes
and landscape and natural character values of Matakarapa Island;
� The extent to which the coastal environment as defined by the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement
(NZCPS) 2010 applies to Matakarapa Island;
� A description of the proposal in terms of its key visual impacts including the likely scale and acceptability
of adverse landscape and natural character effects resulting from several design and location options.
� A high level assessment of these effects against the objectives and policies of the NZCPS, Horowhenua
District Plan (HDP) and the Horizons One Plan; and
� Identification of key landscape-related issues to be addressed in subsequent resource consent
applications.
A site visit to Matakarapa Island and the wider landscape (e.g. Manawatu River and Foxton township) was
undertaken on the 1st of July 2015. The purpose of the site visit was to provide an overview of the project
area and to develop an appreciation of the character and quality of the local landscape, likely extent of
works, resulting extent and influence of the proposal on the coastal environment and the overall effects
‘envelope’ as it relates to landscape, natural character and visual matters (see site photographs and photo
point plan in Appendix 1). In addition, research was undertaken of the Boffa Miskell study titled ‘Outstanding
Natural Landscapes & Features’ Review August 2011’ for Horowhenua District Council.
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2 Landscape Context
2.1 Existing Character, Values and Sensitivities
The site is located on Matakarapa Island which lies immediately south-west of Foxton at the southern edge
of the Manawatu Plains (Figure 1). Matakarapa Island acts as a point of demarcation, between the
Manawatu Estuary and coastal dunefields at the western edge of the Manawatu Plains and the very
extensive alluvial and remnant sand flats of the plains themselves. The Manawatu River, flowing east to west
across the plains, forms the southern edge of Matakarapa Island, while the ‘Foxton Loop’ encapsulates the
rest of the Island to the north.
Remnant dune landforms stretching up to 12km inland from the coast characterise much of the landscape
surrounding Foxton. The remnant dune system remains a prominent feature of the surrounding landscape
due to their elevation above the surrounding pastoral flats. The vast majority of inland dune remnants are
also identified by small clusters of established pine trees for stabilisation purposes. The remaining active
dunes are covered in large scale pine plantations which dominate the coastal edge throughout the district,
including Waitarere Forest south-west of the Matakarapa Island.
The plains are overlain by a geometric matrix of dairy pasture, fences, shelterbelts, water races and road
networks as well as forestry woodlots. Farmhouses, sheds and pivot irrigators are also a feature of this
modified and managed pastoral landscape. North-east of Matakarapa Island is the settlement of Foxton
which is characterised by mainly residential housing and some industrial landuse adjacent to the Foxton
Loop. More remotely, the settlement of Foxton Beach sits on the northern edge of the Manawatu River
mouth approximately 2km from the existing WWTP.
FOXTON WWTP
MATAKARAPA ISLAND
Figure 1: Topographical Context Plan
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The tidal interface of the Manawatu River and the Tasman Sea is characterised by the Manawatu Estuary,
immediately west of Matakarapa Island. The Estuary is characterised by an extensive intertidal saltmarsh
wetland interspersed by sequences of coprosma, mingimingi, and other native coastal scrub. The dynamic
andcyclical nature of the Manawatu Estuary and River environs imparts an overall sense of naturalness
although the combined presence of roading, residential development, pastoral, horticultural and forestry
activities does have a diminishing effect on this naturalness in a cumulative sense.
The landform of Matakarapa Island is quite variable, comprising pastoral flats at its northern end,
transitioning into undulating dune striations that typically run in a west to east direction interspersed by flat
areas of pasture and the existing Foxton WWTP. Immediately south of the WWTP, the land rises
dramatically to form one of the more elevated points in the vicinity of Foxton and comprising a sequence of
deeply incised former dune hollows and ridges that straddle the width of the island. The elevation and
steepness of this section of the island is amplified at the Whirokino Cut which marks a significant area of
downcut where it meets the Manawatu River. The southern extent of the island is again characterised by low
dune striations with flat areas of pasture in between and is notably more modified by farming practice.
As previously mentioned, Matakarapa is surrounded by the Foxton Loop to the north, east and west. This
stretch of still water and swampland forms a significant part of the island’s context when viewed from Foxton
and SH1 though from most low lying vantage points the waterbody of the Loop is completely obscured by a
5m high flood protection bund along its length. The Foxton Loop imparts a sense of tranquillity in contrast to
the more dynamic qualities associated with the Manawatu River at its southern end or the often turbulent
physical conditions and moods of the west coast at Foxton Beach.
The pattern and composition of vegetation on the island reflects its topography – stands of kanuka shelter in
the lee of the larger dunes to the east, native scrub, broom, and gorse cover the more exposed ridges and
slopes, while marram grass and mingimingi cover areas of dune hollow and exposures of sand. A prominent
stand of mature pines cover the western frontage of a large dune. Patches of native and exotic vegetation
are found on the former dune slopes across much of the island, which is otherwise dominated by pastoral
grasses.
Matakarapa Island contains a small number of scattered farm sheds, a single dwelling east of the WWTP, as
well as the existing Foxton Wastewater Treatment plant which comprises rectilinear treatment ponds.
Based on the description above a map of existing landscape sensitivities (see Annexure 13) across
Matakarapa Island has been prepared focusing on areas of ‘high’ and ‘moderate’ sensitivity. The method for
determining these areas is based on:
� Physical Elevation & Prominence: the physical and visual prominence of the Island
relative to other land visible from the surrounding vantage points
� Existing Land Uses: the degree to which existing land uses visible on and around the
subject site would assist with the visual integration of the irrigation proposal with its
surrounds – reflective of the fact that more obvious human activities and the related
feeling of ‘modification’ would assist integration, whereas a more homogeneous ‘natural’
landscape would be less able to accommodate new / different development.
� Topography: the extent to which the visible topography would either aid or hinder
integration of new development on the subject site seen from surrounding vantage points
This assessment also takes into account the influence that topography in the more
immediate foreground and middle distance (where applicable) would exert over the
visibility and prominence of development on the subject site
� Vegetation Cover: the extent to which existing trees, shelterbelts and other vegetation on
and around the subject site, but also in the more immediate foreground and middle
distance, would affect perception of new development on the site – in terms of screening
or visual buffering / filtering.
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2.2 Determining the Coastal Environment
The following features and elements are identified within the NZCPS as characteristic of the Coastal
Environment (although the presence of these features / elements does not actually assist with the
demarcation of the Coastal Environment’s margins):
Coastal features and elements:
(a) the coastal marine area;
(b) islands within the coastal marine area;
(c) areas where coastal processes, influences or qualities are significant, including coastal lakes,
lagoons, tidal estuaries, saltmarshes, coastal wetlands, and the margins of these;
(d) areas at risk from coastal hazards;
(e) coastal vegetation and the habitat of indigenous coastal species including migratory birds;
(f) elements and features that contribute to the natural character, landscape, visual qualities or amenity
values;
(g) items of cultural and historic heritage in the coastal marine area or on the coast;
(h) inter-related coastal marine and terrestrial systems, including the intertidal zone; and
(i) physical resources and built facilities, including infrastructure, that have modified the coastal
environment.
In the context of the list of features and elements above, the following list of more ‘discrete’ key
characteristics / attributes help to define the extent and limits of the Coastal Environment. None of these
characteristics are definitive in their own right i.e. several attributes often have to be considered and weighed
up before the extent of the Coastal Environment can be defined. Moreover, the attributes that finally
determine that ‘boundary’ will vary from location to location and require extensive field work to ground truth
the boundary:
Areas physically linked to the Coastal Marine Area (CMA):
1. Include those that are directly subject to wave action and tidal inundation / movement and which contain / define the inter-tidal margins of the CMA;
2. Coastal drainage systems, including catchments and headwaters that feed directly into the CMA; and
3. Landforms and vegetation cover that are directly affected / modified by exposure and proximity to the CMA – through wind action, wave action and salt exposure.
Areas whose character is substantially defined by their proximity to the CMA:
1. Areas within which the CMA is a dominant to significant visual entity;
2. Locations whose landscape character and amenity is clearly influenced by proximity to, and a sense of connection with, the CMA; and
3. Locations within which items of cultural and historic heritage are found that are linked to, or within the CMA.
As part of its process to review the District Plan, HDC has sought to describe and define the extent of the
coastal environment by way of a Natural Character Assessment1. Though, there is some confusion as to
1 Boffa Miskell Ltd, Outstanding Natural Landscapes & Features Review August 2011 (prepared for Horowhenua District Council)
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whether Matakarapa Island is included within the coastal environment. Planning Map 4 ‘Rural’ (see figure 1)
identifies a ‘Coastal Natural Character Area’ which encompasses the southern half of Matakarapa Island
whereas Planning Map 38 ‘Landscape Domains’ (see Figure 2) show the ‘Coastal Environment Domain’
excluding the Island but still incorporating the Manawatu Estuary and a much wider strip of land adjacent the
coast.
While both sets of maps illustrate a clear discrepancy on where the coastal environment boundary lies, they
both illustrate the landward shift of the coastal environment in and around the Manawatu River mouth. This is
reflective of the fact that river mouths are highly dynamic landscapes which have a much wider reaching
influence on the landscape than other parts of the coastline. In that sense, perhaps one of the more
important considerations in examining whether Matakarapa Island sits within the coastal environment, as
Figure 2: Planning Map 4 'Rural'
Figure 3: Excerpt from Planning Map 38
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defined by the NZCPS, is the extent to which coastal processes are occurring and their influence in a
perceptual sense.
Tested against the six key characteristics / attributes listed above it is clear that Matakarapa Island is
influenced both physically and perceptually by the CMA (see Annexures 3 – 6 & 11), specifically:
� Tidal movement and inundation up the Manawatu River which contain / define the inter-tidal margins of
the CMA and Manawatu Estuary;
� The dune landform drains directly into the tidal margins of the Manawatu Estuary;
� The dune landforms and windswept vegetation cover are directly affected / modified by exposure and
proximity to the CMA – through wind action, deposition and attrition, and salt exposure;
� The CMA comprising the dune landforms and wave action at the river mouth, and the extensive
Manawatu Estuary is a dominant visual entity;
� The landscape character of the southern portion of the Island, including its pronounced and intact dune
landforms, sand exposures interspersed by marram grass , and indigenous windswept coastal vegetation,
is clearly influenced by proximity to, and a sense of connection with, the CMA;
� locations within which items of cultural and historic heritage are found that are linked to, or within the
CMA.
3 The Proposal
HDC operates the Foxton WWTP on Matakarapa Island. The proposal seeks to reduce or eliminate the
discharges to Foxton Loop from this facility to improve its environmental and social acceptability, and to allow
long term management of Foxton’s wastewater. This would include an additional storage pond as well as the
application of treated wastewater to the land (irrigation).
Although not yet defined the storage pond is likely to be of similar size to what exists (ranging from 1 – 2.5 hectares). The location of this facility is yet to be confirmed by LEI, though it is likely to be situated in close proximity to the existing WWTP.
It is understood the application of treated wastewater may comprise a series of three metre high wooden
posts around 150 - 200mm in diameter (similar to a farm fence post) spaced at 30m centres with irrigation
hoses attached. The spray diameter of each will reach between eight and fifteen metres, with a total
coverage of between 50 and 80 hectares across the Island. The locations of these poles are yet to be
determined but will likely traverse the southern extent of the Island which has an Outstanding Natural
Feature and Landscape (ONFL) overlay in the District Plan. The land that is treated will continue to be
utilised for grazing and farming practice.
Consequently, the major implications of the project relate to the modification of dune landforms to construct
the additional storage pond, prominence of irrigation posts, and the potential contrast and patterning of the
dune surface as a result of the irrigation, particularly on the elevated ONFL portion of the Island.
4 Potential Effects
Without a concept design to assess, it is not yet possible to assess the effects of the activity on the
landscape and natural character of Matakarapa Island and the wider environs. However, some broad
assessments can be made as follows.
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4.1 Visual
� Visual effects 2experienced within the surrounding plains landscape would be localised due to the high
number of shelterbelts, 5m high flood protection bund, and intervening vegetation surrounding the site as
well as the low viewing angle toward Matakarapa Island. Partial views of irrigation posts and the
distribution field on the more elevated dunes would be obtained from Stewart Street in close proximity to
the site. Consequently, the greater bulk of effects associated with the irrigation would be experienced
from SH1 and to a lesser degree Foxton Beach Road.
� From nearly all vantage points around the site, the existing WWTP is not visible due to the ponds very low
profile and the Islands terrain being slightly elevated above the surrounding plains. As such it is likely that
an additional storage pond, in a similar location, would be barely visible.
� Given the views from both SH1 and Foxton Beach Road are broad, and encompass an array of
landscape components, and are relatively distant (approximately 1km and 2km respectively) it is unlikely
that the 3m high irrigation posts will be particularly discernible.
� Similarly, when viewed from river level, the steep dune profile adjacent to the river would screen out the
additional storage pond and the bulk of irrigation posts. Given the proximity of such views, any structures
on the edge of the river will be apparent. While relatively benign viewed in isolation, there is a risk of the
structures appearing overly dominant when seen cumulatively in a similar location on the island. In this
instance careful consideration is needed when determining the layout of the posts.
4.2 Landscape
� The degree of landscape effects 3associated with the additional storage pond will be largely influenced by
its final location and positioning. For instance, the mainly flat pastoral land immediately north and east of
the existing WWTP has a low sensitivity to land modification due to its low profile, absence of vegetation,
and mainly pastoral content. In addition, the co-location of WWTP facilitates would limit the spread of
landscape effects across the island as a whole by isolating large scale structures and activities to one
part of the Island.
� Flattening of elevated dunes to the south of the WWTP to accommodate a storage facility would generate
a moderate degree of effect due to the relative intactness of those landforms and on-going natural
processes that are occurring. While relatively low in profile, the dune landforms on the northern part of the
Island create a distinctively variable profile when viewed from SH1 – the prominence of which is
exacerbated by the contrast of its elevated terrain with the flat plains that surround it. However, the
storage facility could be positioned within a sequence of flat elongated dune hollows between the
elevated landforms which would limit the overall land modification and confine any effects to areas
already substantially modified by farming practice.
� Potential effects of the irrigation posts and distribution field would be largely confined to the elevated dune
landforms on the Island. In particular the effect caused by potential contrast in surface patterning/colour of
underlying pastoral grasses on the dunes as a result of the circular distribution of treated waste water
during summer months. As a result, the extent of intrusion and disruption of natural patterns and
characteristics of Matakarapa Island would vary over its length and one’s location on the surrounding
roads, however the effects could be moderate - high along parts of SH1 between Newth Road and
Moutoa Floodway as well as from the Manawatu River itself.
2 The extent to which the development proposal would be visible and visually prominent, or might even dominate views toward the application site.
3 Landscape effects are essentially those effects the project has on the physical characteristics of the landscape (landform, watercourses (ie coastal edge),
natural processes, and vegetation) and visual coherence and integrity of the landscape (perceived balance between natural and man-made elements within
the visible landscape).
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� Conversely, irrigation on the majority of low lying land in between and surrounding the elevated dunes will
not be particularly discernible and will not dominate the local landscape, nor would it be particularly
intrusive – either in relation to views of Matakarapa Island, or the wider coastal environment and
surrounding farmland exposed to this viewpoint – the aesthetic coherence of the view / outlook would be
largely maintained. Furthermore, the irrigation of low lying areas that would remain visible would be
viewed in the context of both existing farmland across the adjoining plains and in the foreground of views
to Matakarapa Island.
4.3 Natural Character
� Potential effects on natural character 4largely mirror those described under landscape effects above.
� The co-location of any additional pond storage near the WWTP will have a very low impact on natural
character values, provided landform modification is kept to a minimum. Most of the area surrounding the
WWTP is substantially more modified by farming practice and the WWTP itself and has a low sensitivity
to further development than other parts of the Island.
� Flattening of dunes to accommodate additional pond storage to the south of the WWTP will have a
moderate impact on those residual natural character values relating to the Island’s pronounced and intact
dune landforms, sand exposures interspersed by patches of indigenous windswept coastal vegetation
exhibiting a sense of connection with the CMA. Limiting the overall modification of the remnant dune
landform by positioning the additional storage pond in low lying pastoral flats near the existing WWTP will
significantly reduce the extent of physical effects;
� The location of irrigation posts within the Island’s more elevated and exposed dune landforms has the
potential to impact on its higher order natural character values. While relatively benign viewed in isolation
or each other, there is a risk of the structures appearing overly dominant when seen cumulatively in a
similar location on the island. The location of the posts needs to primarily focus on low lying areas near
the WWTP and the southern tip of the Island, within stands of kanuka and other established vegetation,
dune hollows dominated by pasture, and co-located along existing fence lines.
4.4 Permitted Baseline Argument
� While not technically an effect, permitted baseline type comparisons will be relevant in the context of
agricultural land use activities. For example, it is understood that irrigation associated with agricultural
effluent could potentially be undertaken as a permitted activity on the Island.
4 The degree to which the development proposals would adversely affect the physical and perceptual attributes (including experiential attributes) of the
following characteristics: landforms (geology / geomorphology), vegetation cover and type, sea / estuarine water bodies, land Uses / activities (buildings &
structures (their presence / absence)), habitat value, and natural processes.
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5 Relevant Planning Considerations
The NZCPS and Horowhenua District Plan contain a number of key provisions related to landscape and
natural character which would need to be taken into account in the assessment of any future resource
consent application. These are identified below:
5.1 NZCPS
Policy 13: preservation of natural character
Policy 13(1) seeks to preserve the natural character of the coastal environment and protect it from inappropriate
use and development. Its seeks to avoid adverse natural character effects in coastal areas with outstanding
natural character and avoid significant effects and avoid, remedy or mitigate other adverse effects of activities
on natural character in all other areas of the coastal environment.
Policy 15: natural features and natural landscapes
Policy 15 seeks to protect the natural features and natural landscapes of the coastal environment from
inappropriate use and development. It seeks to avoid adverse effects of activities on outstanding natural
features and outstanding natural landscapes in the coastal environment; and avoid significant adverse effects
and avoid, remedy, or mitigate other adverse effects of activities on other natural features and natural
landscapes in the coastal environment.
5.2 Horowhenua District Plan
Matakarapa Island is zoned rural (with several overlays, including outstanding natural landscape/feature,
Foxton Duneland Domain, Coastal Environment Domain, and Coastal Natural Character and Hazard Area)
under the Horowhenua District Plan 2013. The following landscape and natural character policies would be
of particular relevance in the assessment of any future application:
Rural Environment Policy 2.1.9
Avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects of subdivision, use and development of land on areas or features of
landscape, biodiversity, historic heritage or cultural value.
Rural Environment Policy 2.1.19
Having regard to the Explanation and Principal Reasons in respect of the elements of rural character ensure
that new activities locating in the rural area are of a nature, scale, intensity and location consistent with
maintaining the character of the rural area and to be undertaken in a manner which avoids, remedies or
mitigates adverse effects on rural character, including rural productive values.
Rural Environment Policy 2.1.20
Ensure that new activities locating in the rural area are of a nature, scale, intensity and location consistent with
maintaining the character of the rural area and to be undertaken in a manner which avoids, remedies or
mitigates adverse effects on rural character, including rural productive values and potential reverse sensitivity
effects.
Foxton Dunefields Policy FD.1
Manage the scale, intensity, size and design of subdivision and land development to ensure that it reflects and
retains the distinctive dune landform pattern, natural habitats and landscape character and qualities of the
Foxton Dunefields Domain.
Foxton Dunefields Policy FD.5
Minimise obtrusive built elements in the dune country landscape by integrating building location and design
with the surrounding landform and landscape qualities, including by avoiding buildings on dune ridgelines and
elevated sites.
Foxton Dunefields Policy FD.7
Protect identified historic heritage and cultural values of the Foxton Dunefields Domain by avoiding the
adverse effects of inappropriate subdivision and land development.
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Natural Features and Values Policy 3.1.2
Protect the character and values of Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes from inappropriate
subdivision, use and development by controlling the level and extent of activities including earthworks and the
scale of buildings and network utilities.
Natural Features and Values Policy 3.1.4
Avoid the development of buildings where they will adversely affect the values of Outstanding Natural
Features and Landscapes.
Natural Features and Values Policy 3.1.7
Have regard to the ability of existing landscapes to absorb appropriate subdivision, use and development,
which includes existing land uses, and also topography and vegetation.
5.2.1 District Plan Assessment Matters
The following assessment criteria are considered relevant to landscape character and visual effects matters:
25.2.1 Landuse Consents in the Rural Zone - General
(b) The physical features of the site and surrounds and any unique characteristics that makes compliance with
permitted activity standards unachievable.
(c) The location, bulk and dominance of the building or structure and the actual and potential adverse affects
on the character and amenity of the surrounding area.
(e) The extent to which the design of the building and activity is compatible with the activities, character and
amenity of the area.
(j) The proposed methods for avoiding, remedying or mitigating adverse effects including the design of the
building or structure, the use of materials, design, screening, landscaping.
(k) The extent to which alternative sites, designs and layout have been considered.
25.2.6 Landuse Consents in the Rural Zone – Non-Primary Production Activities
(b) Whether alternative locations (including possible locations in urban areas) have been considered.
(d) Whether the scale of the development is in keeping with the rural character of the area.
(e) Whether the proposal will adversely affect the open space and rural character of the surrounding area.
25.2.8 Landuse Consents in the Rural Zone – Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes and
Domains with High Landscape Amenity
(a) The extent to which the proposal adversely affects the landscape values of the landscape in which it is
located.
(b) The extent to which there are cumulative effects on landscape values.
(c) The extent to which landscape effects are able to be effectively avoided, remedied or mitigated.
(d) The extent to which the proposal provides for rehabilitation and restoration of landscape and associated
values or the offsetting of those values by another form of environmental compensation using a 'no net
loss' approach.
(e) The extent to which the proposal leads to buildings, structures and earthworks being highly visible.
(f) The extent to which the proposal is in accordance with the Rural Subdivision Design Guide.
(g) The extent to which a proposal on an Outstanding Natural Feature or Landscape, or domain with High
Landscape Amenity, affects the backdrop of the Tararua Ranges.
(h) The extent to which the proposal is visible from the coast.
(i) The extent to which the proposal is consistent with any relevant provisions in National Policy Statements,
Regional Policy Statements and objectives and policies of the District Plan.
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5.2.2 Outstanding Natural Landscape
Planning Map 40 ‘Outstanding Natural Features and Landscape’ (see figure 4) identifies the southern half of
Matakarapa Island as an ONFL. The northern edge of the boundary follows a cadastral boundary which
traverses the lower northern slopes of the highest dune on the Island. The ONFL covers the same portion of
Matakarapa Island as the ‘Coastal Natural Character & Hazard Area overlay.
The following definition refers to the Manawatu River Estuary which has been taken from the 2011, Boffa
Miskell, Outstanding Natural Features and Landscape Review prepared for HDC:
The estuary of the Manawatu River is the largest in the lower North Island, covering approximately 250ha and
comprising tidal mudflats, saltmarsh, a sand spit and part of the Manawatu River. The area is bounded on the
south by the exotic production forest (Waitarere Forest), Foxton Beach settlement on the north, with grazed
farmland enclosing the estuary to the east.
Horizons One Plan includes the Manawatu River estuary in its ‘Coastline ONFL’, identifying its ecological values
as being important habitat for indigenous fauna. RAP # 22 lies within the ONL.
Natural Science Values
Approximately 200 ha of the river and adjoining wetlands comprise the Ramsar convention site, and
therefore the estuary is a wetland of international importance, as well as being nationally, regionally
and locally recognised for its bird habitat. In all, 93 bird species have been recorded on the estuary,
including year-round species as well as migratory birds, some of which are threatened species or
critically endangered.
While the water quality of the Manawatu River is generally low, the environmental qualities and
biodiversity of the estuary remain high, assisted by on-going natural processes such as tidal flushing,
and wind and water action. Physically, there is little modification of the estuary or its margins with the
bird observation platform and boat ramp facilities being the only structures of note.
Sensory Values
The daily movements of tides concealing and exposing the tidal mud flats contribute to the transient
values of the area, as does the ephemeral nature of seasonal arrival and departure of migratory birds.
The form of the estuary is very expressive of the natural processes that have formed it; the effect of
erosion and sand deposition, and the forces of the wind and sea alter the course of the river,
constantly changing the mud flats, salt marshes and vegetation patterns.
Figure 4: Excerpt from Planning Map 40 'Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes'
Foxton WWTP - Landscape Feasibility Study - Beca, 2015:B15
Beca // 19 October 2015
4262328 // NZ1-11049519-46 0.46 // page 12
Key sensory qualities of the estuary derive from its expansive openness, and the experience of the
changing coastal environment; wind, salt, sand, sun and light. Overall, the estuary has a very natural
appearance and feel.
Shared and Recognised Values
The Manawatu Estuary is widely known and highly valued by the community for its natural, historical
and recreational values. It contributes significantly to local and wider community’s identity, and has
been a popular holiday spot since the early days. Recreationally, the estuary is used for boating,
fishing, bird watching and walking. In particular, the bird life attracts people from beyond the
Horowhenua. Every year, an official welcome and farewell is held for the migratory birds, including
godwits and knots which come from Alaska and Siberia.
Historically, the Manawatu estuary and river served as an important transport and trading node
providing water access inland as far as Palmerston North and to Foxton where export of flax was once
a major industry. Prior to road and rail travel, the beach provided the main land route between
Wellington and Whanganui. A ferry house near the mouth of the Manawatu River provided an
overnight stopover point.
For Maori, the estuary is a highly significant cultural and spiritual landscape with rich ancestral
associations, including many generations of occupation, as an important source for food and natural
resources, for transportation inland, as the location of battles and conquest, and sites of waahi tapu
and urupa.
Notes defining the revised ONFL boundary
The revised boundary is primarily based on the proposed PC 22 ONL with;
• The addition of an inland area, that was proposed to be included in the proposed Foxton Dunefield
ONL. An area of sand dunes in the north side of the river mouth.
• Exclusion of the Foxton Beach Motor Camp
Landscape Values
• Large estuary system with diverse range of biodiversity and habitat
• Internationally important site for some migratory bird species
• Open expansive landscape allowing views inland from the coast
• Rich sensory experience due to ever changing coastal environment - tides, salt, and wind
• Highly significant cultural and spiritual landscape for tangata whenua
• Well recognised and valued historical associations as an early trading and transport node.
5.2.3 Manawatu Estuary – Ramsar Site
The Manawatu River Mouth was listed as a Ramsar5 site in 2005 for its high degree of naturalness and
diversity of flora. While not a statutory document, the fact that the estuary has been listed as a Ramsar site
reinforces the outstanding biophysical values of the landscape surrounding the site. While Ramsar status
has not statutory weight in its own right, overlays and provisions in the Horowhenua District Plan provide
statutory weight to some of these values (e.g. the Manawatu Estuary ONFL).
5.3 Policy analysis
In relation to the matters addressed by these provisions:
� It is considered that a form of irrigation located over the southern portion of the Island would not
significantly affect the ONL characteristics of the Manawatu Estuary including that part of the overlay
on Matakarapa Island. This determination is based on the irrigation posts and associated waste
water distribution fields being strategically located within discreet low lying areas, established
vegetation, and modified dune hollows contained within the ONL.
5 The Ramsar convention is the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance and “recognises an intergovernmental treaty that
provides the framework for conservation and wise use of wetlands”.
Foxton WWTP - Landscape Feasibility Study - Beca, 2015:B15
Beca // 19 October 2015
4262328 // NZ1-11049519-46 0.46 // page 13
� The co-location of any additional storage pond in the vicinity of the WWTP would generate a very
low impact. Any significant modification of the remnant dune landform to position the storage pond
could potentially generate a moderate impact on landscape and natural character values
experienced in the vicinity of SH1 and on the Manawatu River.
� The proposal would have a generally low to moderate impact on the natural character and values of
the Matakarapa Island. However, any irrigation structures and effluent distribution fields located on
elevated dune landforms and which sit in close proximity to the Manawatu River have the potential to
be more conspicuous and affect such values more appreciably if not designed to integrate with the
existing landform and vegetation patterns of the Island. However it is acknowledged that structures
up to 3m high are a permitted activity in the rural zone and that there is no provision to manage the
effects of irrigation patterning on more prominent landscapes. Even so, the cumulative effect of such
structures, the prominence of which is potentially amplified by the visible contrast of green pastoral
circles amid a typically dry brown landscape, has the potential to disrupt the natural patterns and
characteristics of Matakarapa Island.
� The proposal would likely have a low impact on the landscape character and values of Manawatu
Estuary;
Foxton WWTP - Landscape Feasibility Study - Beca, 2015:B15
Beca // 19 October 2015
4262328 // NZ1-11049519-46 0.46 // page 14
6 Recommendations
At present, there are no ‘fatal flaws’ associated with some form of irrigation on Matakarapa Island in terms of
its landscape and natural character effects. This fact is confirmed by the operative District Plan enabling a
range of network utilities as permitted activities with ONLs, albeit limited in scale and size. The District Plan
provisions (i.e. rules in this case) give effect to the NZCPS and its protective coastal provisions.
However, the operative Horowhenua District Plan gives rise to a number of issues that need to be
addressed. The most significant of these is the location of part of the irrigation proposal on the Manawatu
Estuary ONL which includes the southern portion of Matakarapa Island. It has also been determined that the
southern half of the Island and ONL sit within the coastal environment. The NZCPS states a proposal must
not have any adverse effects on the values associated with the ONL in the coastal environment. While it is
possible that some form of irrigation could be situated with the ONL, it would need to be carefully located and
be of a scale and intensity so as not to disrupt the landscape values sought to be protected.
In this context, district plan policies that address the ‘avoidance’ and ‘mitigation’ of the effects of structures
and earthworks on ONL values coincide with concerns about effects on local amenity and landscape values,
and more specific potential impacts on the natural character of Matakarapa Island and Manawatu Estuary.
These issues suggest that every effort should be made to ensure the proposal is more than just a grid of
irrigation posts laid out across the island, rather one that integrates with its surrounds to the maximum extent
practicable. In order to address the various matters raised above, a number of possible approaches could be
considered:
Location / positioning:
Given the level of potential visual effects associated with locating the irrigation within the ONL it is
recommended to minimise coverage over elevated and exposed landforms unless substantially
screened and contained with areas of established vegetation. It is recommended that the irrigation
posts be concentrated in low lying areas, pastoral dune hollows, within stands of kanuka and co-
located (if possible) along existing fence lines. The strategic location of irrigation posts as described
will limit the extent of intrusion and disruption of natural patterns and characteristics of Matakarapa
Island.
On other parts of the Island it is also recommended that the location of irrigation posts primarily focus
on low lying areas near the WWTP and the southern tip of the Island. It is recommended that any
effluent distribution over elevated areas be designed so as to create contiguous overlapping areas to
avoid any potential geometric patterning between green and brown areas of grass.
The storage facility, by being co-located near the WWTP within existing areas of flat pasture has a low
sensitivity to further development than other parts of the Island.
Rehabilitation planting:
Rehabilitation planting could be offered to help integrate any new storage pond focusing on the
coastal fore dune to the north-west. Such planting, while not strictly required for mitigation purposes,
would help to break up the pond’s linear profile and scale, in relation to views from its immediate
setting. This approach would also have a positive effect on the dune landscape that is potentially more
manageable in terms of fencing off for stock.
While it is acknowledged that 3m high structures are a permitted activity with the ONFL, from a
landscape best practice perspective it is recommended that strategic planting of kanuka is undertaken
around more visual exposed areas of irrigation areas to soften and integrate the structures within the
landscape. This also assists in reducing cumulative effects by limiting visibility of particular irrigation
areas that might otherwise be seen in combination and sequentially.
Foxton WWTP - Landscape Feasibility Study - Beca, 2015:B15
Beca // 19 October 2015
4262328 // NZ1-11049519-46 0.46 // page 15
Further Information Required for AEE Application
In order to provide a more detailed assessment of the effects on landscape, visual and natural
character of the Matakarapa irrigation proposal the following key tasks will need to be undertaken:
� Correspondence with LEI to develop designs for the layout of the irrigation scheme - reflecting
engineering requirements, on-going operational regime, site constraints and integration with key
landscape areas to the extent that this is feasible.
� Preparation of a mitigation / rehabilitation concept which includes areas of planting.
F O X T O N W W T P : L A N D S C A P E F E A S I B I L I T Y S T U D Y
Prepared for Horowhenua District CouncilOCTOBER 2015
Appendix 1 - Graphic Annexures
Action Name Signed DatePrepared by Anne Lassé
Ben Frost19-10-2015
Reviewed by Wade Robertson 19-10-2015
Approved by Andrew Watson
on behalf of Beca Ltd.
Revision No. Prepared By Description Date
A Ben Frost & Anne Lassé Draft for internal review 28-07-2015
B Ben Frost & Anne Lassé Draft for client review 06-08-2015
C Ben Frost Final 19-10-2015
Revision History
Document Acceptance
This document should be printed at A3.
Images in this document: Unless otherwise noted, drawings, illustrations, photos and other images have been provided directly by Beca. In all other instances, best efforts have been made to reference the image to its original source.
© Beca 2014 (unless Beca has expressly agreed otherwise with the Client in writing). This report has been prepared by Beca on the specific instructions of our Client. It is solely for our Client’s use for the purpose for which it is intended in accordance with the agreed scope of work. Any use or reliance by any person contrary to the above, to which Beca has not given its prior written consent, is at that person's own risk.
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APPROXIMATE BOUNDARY OF THE MANAWATU ESTUARY ONFL
PHOTO POINTS ON MATAKARAPA ISLAND
VIEW POINTS FROM SURROUNDING LANDSCAPE
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PHOTO 1 - View over existing treatment ponds to elevated dunes beyond.
PHOTO 2 - View looking south-west from the WWTP showing areas modified by farming practice - and proposed location for additional storage PHOTO 3 - View looking east from the WWTP.
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PHOTO 5 - View withinn the northern portion of the ONFL (marked by the mature pines left of photo) showing undulating dunes covered in gorse, boxthorn, and lupin.
PHOTO 4 - View looking south showing a sequence of low undulating dunes in the foreground and the northern slopes of the highest dune (the ONFL boundary runs along the base of the highest dune)
PHOTO 3 - View looking east from the WWTP.
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PHOTO 7 - View showing the confluence of Foxton Loop and the Manuwatu River.
PHOTO 6 - View from the north-eastern corner of the ONFL looking south-west across a broad flat area of pasture that is flanked by sharply rising dunes.
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PHOTO 8 - View east over the Whirokino Cut and the eroded dune escarpments.
PHOTO 9 - View showing vegetation sequences one of the dune hollows within the ONFL.
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PHOTO 10 - View south from elevated dunes to the Manawatu River and Waitarere Forest beyond. Stands of kanuka in the foreground shelter in the lee of the large dunes.
PHOTO 11 - Stands of kanuka traverse the rear dune slopes within the ONFL.
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PHOTO 12 - View from the edge of SH1 looking west. Intervening vegetation filters views to the elevated dunes of Matakarapa Island. Flood control stopbanks also screen views of the lower-lying parts of Matakarapa Island.
PHOTO 13 - View from SH1 looking west towards Matakarapa Island. Flood control stopbanks screen views of the lower-lying parts of Matakarapa Island.
Viewing sector - SH1
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PHOTO 14 - View from SH1 looking west towards Matakarapa Island. The northern dune formations are partially obscured by intervening vegetation
Viewing sector - SH1
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Viewing sector - Foxton Township
PHOTO 15 - View from Stewart Street looking east towards Matakarapa Island. Whilst the island is in close proximity the views of dunes are filtered by intervening vegetation.
PHOTO 16 – View from Harbour Street over Foxton Loop to the pastoral flats of the northern end of Matakarapa Island.
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PHOTO 17 - View from Foxton Beach Road looking southeast over farmland to the elevated dunes of Matakarapa Island.
PHOTO 18 - View from Holben Parade looking southeast over the Manawatu Estuary towards Matakarapa Island in the distance.
Viewing sector - Foxton Beach
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PHOTO 19 - View looking east from the confluence of the Manawatu River and Foxton Loop
PHOTO 20 - View looking south-west up the Manawatu River and Whirokino Cut to the left, toward the southern extent of Matakarapa Island.
Viewing sector - Manawatu River
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PHOTO 21 - View looking north east along Manawatu River. The extensive Waitarere Forest forms a backdrop to views from the River.
Viewing sector - Manawatu River
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Oblique aerial photographsNote: Images taken while floodwaters were still receding on 24 June 2015 following a major storm event.
PHOTO 22 - Oblique aerial showing the relationship between the elevat-ed dunes on Matakarapa Island and Manawatu Estuary and the contrast between the pastoral flats in the foreground and homogenous production forestry in the background.
PHOTO 23 - Oblique aerial showing the contrast in landform of the dune striations and flat pasture in between.
PHOTO 24 - Oblique aerial of the Manawatu River Mouth
PHOTO 25 - Oblique aerial showing the contrast in landform between the dune striations and flat pasture in-between with the Manawatu River and Estuary beyond.
PHOTO 26 - Oblique aerial showing the area of modification at the southern tip of Matakarapa Island.
PHOTO 27 - Oblique aerial showing the prominence of the elevated dunes on Matakarapa Island in contrast to the surrounding low lying landscape
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PHOTO 28 - Oblique aerial showing the northern portion of the ONFL including all of the flats at the bottom left of the image.
PHOTO 29 - Oblique aerial showing the elevated dunes within the ONFL and the distinct vegetation patterns that extend along them.
PHOTO 30 - Oblique aerial looking east showing areas of undulating dunes seperated by flattened dune hollows. The northern edge of the ONFL is the narrow strip of pasture to the left of the tree-covered dunes on the left edge of this photo. All of the pasture flats and dunes across the middle of this view are within the ONFL.
Oblique aerial photographs Note: Images taken while floodwaters were still receding on 24 June 2015 following a major storm event.
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VERY HIGH LANDSCAPE SENSITIVITY
MODERATE LANDSCAPE SENSITIVITY
HIGH LANDSCAPE SENSITIVITY
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EXCLUSION OF LIABILITY ARISING FROM SUPPLY OF INFORMATIONHorizons Regional Council endeavours to provide useful and accurate information. Horizons Regional Council shall not, however be liable whether in contract, tort, equity or otherwise, for any loss or damage of any type including consequential losses arising directly or indirectly from the inadequacy, inaccuracy or any other deficiency in information supplied irrespective of the cause. Use of information supplied is entirely at the risk of the recipient and shall be deemed to be acceptance of this liability exclusion. Prepared for Operations by Catchment Information, Horizons Regional Council. Drawn in 25 March 2014. Imagery Copyright 2012 MW LASS Ltd NZ Aerial Mapping Ltd. Contains Crown Copyright Data
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