SECTION C 33 June 2014 Marlborough Coastal Study | Coastal Marlborough Section C THE MARLBOROUGH ENVIRONMENT COASTAL 34

Introduction to the Marlborough Coastal Environment and its Sub-Regions

In this section, the broad characteristics of the that form the division between Cloudy Bay to the Marlborough Sounds and South Marlborough sub- north and Clifford Bay to the south, the coastal cliffs regions are described and evaluated at the sub-regional around Cape Campbell, and the stranded former bay of scale (see Section B, Figure 6, Level 2) and also Map 4, shallow Lake Grassmere. South of Cape Campbell are opposite. the coastal limestone features around the Flaxbourne River Mouth to Chancet Rocks and south to Weld Cone The coastline of Marlborough is one of the longest in and Needles Point. Marlborough’s coastlines, like its . It can be divided broadly into two very landscapes, are diverse. different types of land. The diversity of Marlborough’s coastal environment Marlborough Sounds can be attributed to its variable morphology and underlying formative processes. As with other parts The first land type is the fractured landscape of islands, of the country, much of the original natural land cover elongated spurs and complex sinuous waterways within the coastal environment has been modified, of the Marlborough Sounds, formed from drowned although remnants of coastal bush and indigenous former river valleys. The intricate and complex coastline broadleaf forest still remain, most notably within contains a diverse range of ecosystems, geology, areas of the Sounds, on steeper terrain. Much of climate and biota. Parts of the sounds are relatively the cleared land within the Sounds has, in recent shallow and strong tidal currents are evident around years, been retired and is gradually reverting back French Pass, due to its narrow constriction between to scrub and indigenous forests. Large parts of the the shallow embayment of Tasman Bay to the west Marlborough Sounds are managed by the Department and the outer sounds to the east. The highest point of Conservation, including the Queen Charlotte Track is Mount Stokes, which rises to 1,203 metres above and numerous predator-free scientific reserves such as sea level. Pelorus and Queen Charlotte Sounds are Maud Island. the two main inlets leading to the settlements of Marlborough’s marine environment is equally diverse, Havelock and Picton respectively. Geological evidence influenced greatly by the region’s location at the top above and below the water suggests that the striking of the , flanked on one side by the warmer faults along the Queen Charlotte Fault zone show the sheltered waters of Tasman Bay and on the other by former river systems that moulded the Marlborough the colder and very exposed waters of and Sounds landscape before they were flooded. These the south Marlborough coast. Nestled in between are river systems flowed southwards and connected with the very sheltered waters of the enclosed Marlborough the Pelorus River at Havelock and through the broad Sounds. Kaituna valley towards the Wairau Valley. Several broad environmental gradients traverse South Marlborough the length and breadth of the region, notably wave exposure, temperature, substrates and depth, but also The second landtype is the South Marlborough tidal influence, productivity, sedimentation and salinity. Coastline, extending from Rarangi in the north, to the These interacting variables help shape the highly region's southern boundary on the Kaikoura coast complex marine environment which is so evident includes the broad, low-lying sweep of Cloudy Bay and across the . its associated coastal marshes, lagoons and sand bars south of the Wairau River and sequence of coastal ridges and swales at Rarangi. It also includes part of the wide river corridors of the Wairau and Awatere. Further south are the eroded cliffs of the White Bluffs

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 35 SECTION C

Legend Extent of Coastal Environment

Marlborough Sounds Sub-Region

South Marlborough Sub-Region

N MAP 4: MARLBOROUGH'S SUB-REGIONAL 0 5 10km COASTAL ENVIRONMENT

N 0 105km

Km 0 2.5 5 10 15 20 36

The Marlborough Sounds Sub-Region The Marlborough Sounds display a unique combination The interplay of the various characteristics both on of landforms formed by drowned river valleys resulting land and sea creates a unique environment notable for in a highly fractured coastline with numerous offshore its broad-scale variability. islands. The Marlborough Sounds include very steep to moderately steep dissected coastal hills, peninsulas Marine and islands with a mix of vegetated and cleared hill slopes. The sub-region contains a diverse range of ecosystems determined by a wide range of geology, Collective Characteristics of the Marlborough landforms, climate and biota. There are extensive areas Sounds Marine Environment of intact upland forest and large tracts of lowland and The Marlborough Sounds marine environment retains coastal forest. Modification is predominantly close much of its natural character. Bordered by Tasman Bay to the land/ sea interface, where houses, ports and to the west and Cook Strait to the north-east, exposed recreation related activities are most prolific. There are to open ocean conditions along its south-eastern also areas of forestry and cleared grazing land. flank, yet largely sheltered by its convoluted form, The Marlborough Sounds’ marine environment is the Marlborough Sounds are uniquely structured and diverse, notable for its connections to Cook Strait and situated. its highly convoluted form of interconnected sounds, A number of broad and sometimes interacting inlets, bays, reaches, and channels with numerous environmental gradients traverse the length and islands, stacks, headlands and reefs. Several physical breadth of the Marlborough Sounds, notably; depth, variables (e.g. shelter/exposure, temperature, salinity, wave exposure, tidal influence (currents, tidal height, turbidity/sedimentation, depth, substrate, tides and and water exchange), turbidity, sedimentation, currents) create overlapping layers of complexity to temperature, salinity, nutrient availability, and the Sounds’ marine environment. Aquaculture tends substrate composition. to be located within western parts of the Sounds (i.e. concentrated in Pelorus Sound).

Above: The exposed outer Sounds are subjected to high winds funnelling through Cook Strait.

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 SECTION C 37 June 2014 Marlborough Sounds. Sediments with a mixture with a mixture Sediments Sounds. Marlborough shell and silt can occur below the of sand, broken or areas areas wave-worked in shallow zone reef and An extensive currents. with moderate-high typically bottom mud/silt uniform comparatively the sea floor especially dominating beyond, extends partswithin sheltered of the Sounds. offshore include: pattern to this general Exceptions in the outer especially and stacks rocks reefs/shoals, gravels (sands, sediments of coarse Sounds; areas locations; offshore some exposed in and cobbles) gravel pea in estuarine areas; flats mud/sand limited and a very Strait; beaches in eastern Cook of sandy shores. array include: estuaries and tidal landforms Notable coastal islands, offshore coastal bluffs; forelands; cuspate flats; and numerous and reefs; rocks, emergent stacks, and of the convoluted as a result headlands and bays as a whole. of the Sounds nature intricate Above: A scallop shell. Some areas of the Marlborough of A scallop shell. Some areas the Marlborough Above: highly productive are Coastline Marlborough Coastal Study | Coastal Marlborough Collective Abiotic Characteristics of the Characteristics Abiotic Collective Sounds Marine Environment Marlborough eastern and northern of the outer The exposed areas subjected winds funnelling through to high Sounds are The south-eastern coast is also exposed Strait. Cook in these the south. Shores to oceanic swells from seas. rough localities can be subjected to very exposed their noted for Sounds are the Marlborough Elsewhere conditions. sheltered relatively the outer Sounds, occur around tidal currents Strong especially near headlands and within constricted Channel. Moderate Tory and through channels, and faces the exposed off also occur currents within headlands of the major channels and reaches tend currents Tidal of the Sounds. the enclosed areas so that waters and inlets, bays to be weak in sheltered time periods. much longer in these localities for remain with much the Sounds, across varies range Tidal Pass) tides in the westlarger (up to 4.5m in French to the east Other (up to 1.6m in Picton). compared and variable complex include: very notable features low sediment loadings relatively hydrodynamics; in Queen Charlotte Sound and the outer Sounds in inner- to high sediment levels moderate generally; Sound, Port Underwood and near Cloudy Bay; Pelorus west; in the waters in the east, warmer waters colder Sound; the head of Pelorus salinities towards reduced inflows, river from derived predominantly nutrients sediment and from Strait upwelling in Cook from quality good water very and generally remineralisation; Picton. and to Havelock in close proximity except by interspersed shores, and bedrock Cobble/boulder beach, dominate the occasional small sand/gravel of the the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones The marine and terrestrial environments combine combine environments and terrestrial The marine natural of distinctive a region visually to form include: the Marlborough Notable features character. the many from formed coastline intricate Sounds’ estuaries; and coves bays, inlets, reaches, sounds, rocks islands and offshore headlands, numerous and exposed localities; wild and remote and stacks; tidal strong to very and moderate waters; sheltered of the Sounds and along the the flanks around flows main channels. 38

Collective Biotic Characteristics of the Marlborough Sounds Marine Environment

Natural biodiversity of the Sounds as a whole is high South Island, many of which utilise the Marlborough as a result of the diverse range of environmental Sounds. New Zealand fur seals have established small conditions and physical habitats. However, on a more haul-out colonies at various sites through the mid- localised scale biodiversity can range from the very outer Sounds, along with a large breeding colony on diverse (e.g. reefs and offshore rocks/stacks of the Takapourewa (Stephens Island) and a smaller rookery outer Sounds) to the relatively simple (e.g. benthic on the Trio Islands. communities in the more sheltered enclosed bays). Numerous seabirds feed through the mid-outer There is an overall gradient in species diversity from the Sounds including terns, gulls, shearwaters, petrels, inner to the outer Sounds, with the number of species prions, shags and gannets. King shags, endemic to generally increasing with proximity to the open ocean. the Marlborough Sounds, are restricted to only a few Productivity is variable, but generally moderate across breeding sites in the outer Sounds. Little blue penguins the region. Some areas are distinguished by their very occur in good numbers throughout the Marlborough high productivity (e.g. estuaries and exposed parts of Sounds. the outer coast, especially those most influenced by Tidal wetlands are found at the heads of most major Cook Strait) whereas other areas have comparatively bays and inlets, forming an important wetland low productivity (e.g. particular enclosed, sheltered network within the Marlborough Sounds. Most bays with limited water exchange). of these wetlands are relatively small, the major Key marine ecological features in the Marlborough exceptions being Whangarae Estuary (Crosisilles Sounds include: near-shore reef communities in Harbour) and a very significant estuarine complex sheltered regions dominated by mobile and encrusting centred on Pelorus/Kaituna Estuary at the head of animals; rich and abundant reef communities in areas Pelorus Sound. Collectively these coastal wetlands exposed to strong wave action and strong currents; are crucial habitat for numerous wetland bird species high current sediment communities in areas subjected including threatened banded rail, marsh crake and to strong tidal flows; relatively few conspicuous banded dotterel. species inhabiting offshore sediment areas; biogenic communities (e.g. brachiopods, hydroids, horse mussels, bryozoans, tube worms, rhodoliths and offshore red algae beds) in certain localised areas; scallop beds; Macrocystis beds in colder, sheltered eastern areas; various estuaries both large and small; elephant fish spawning grounds; and a coastal fish fauna noteworthy for the predominance of blue cod and spotties.

A wide range of marine mammal species inhabit or migrate past the Marlborough Sounds. Cook Strait is an important migratory route for several large whale species, including sperm, humpback, blue, minke and southern right whales. Pods of orca (killer whales) are regular visitors to the Marlborough Sounds and dusky dolphins can be relatively numerous at times, mainly over winter and spring in the mid-outer Sounds. A small resident population of Hector's dolphins is located in Queen Charlotte Sound. Hector's dolphins also venture into Port Underwood from neighbouring Cloudy Bay, but are rare elsewhere in the Sounds. A moderate-sized population of bottlenose dolphins Above: Numerous seabirds feed through the mid-outer (>380 individuals) is found across the top of the Sounds including King Shag.

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 SECTION C 39 June 2014 Aquaculture also reduces the naturalness of the water. of the water. the naturalness also reduces Aquaculture in the western principally found are Mussel farms Waitata Bay, including Admiralty the Sounds, of areas and Beatrix Sound, Forsyth, Pelorus Bays), (and Reach although also evident, are Salmon farms Bays. Crail throughout the Sounds. located sporadically Sounds' waters the Marlborough of The variety to be gained of experiences range a diverse for allows parts of the Different nearby. when visiting or living visitors) local or international (i.e. residents, community depending on the parts of the Sounds, different value pursuits. and type of recreational of remoteness level different often attract inner waters sheltered The more wild and rugged coastal exposed, activities to the more accessibility and a Where of the outer Sounds. waters the most some of coincide, popular rugged coastline parts the Sounds. In terms of of and memorable and remoteness a sense of wildness, experiencing parts the least of the coast rate isolation, developed character the purposes of this natural the highest for assessment. Sounds' marine of the various enjoyment People's and sensory by transient affected is also environments and sandy on pebble In intertidal areas factors. water instance, the ebb and flow of the for beaches, of the sea and The aroma moods. different creates is often waves the sound of the lapping or crashing Seasons affect with emotions and feelings. associated of the marine environment, values the experiential fish and pods of dolphins or whales can be seen where of viewpoints. a variety from Sounds of the of the waters experience People's depends on their knowledge, their activity and their a a visitor on a boat, a diver, For with the area. role whenua, the experience tangata or for mussel farmer different. can be very Marlborough Coastal Study | Coastal Marlborough The Marlborough Sounds comprise of an extensive of an extensive comprise Sounds The Marlborough characteristics the experiential of waterways, labyrinth and varied extremely are of the marine environment open seas and busy bays, and remote include isolated the way people. Ultimately, used by many waterways of the Marlborough the waters people experience dependentSounds will be highly on their accessibility of course, is, There the water. with, to and involvement of characteristics with the experiential some cross-over Character Natural Terrestrial Sounds the Marlborough perception is on experiences, here so the focus areas, water. to the and modification intactness Sound are of the Marlborough The network of waters and and internationally well known both nationally one of the most popular places to visit, holiday are The passenger in the upper South Island. in or reside and travels to Picton which connects ferry partTory through of Queen Charlotte Sound and visitors with opportunities to view Channel provides bush- often by steep, framed the spectacular waters and private provide smaller craft Various clad hills. to all inner and outer public access and enjoyment Sounds waters. Queen Charlotte Sound is the most popular area most people of the (or sound), where of water of bays In the numerous Sounds reside. Marlborough and wharves jetties, Queen Charlotte Sound, many often and yachts, with boats present moorings are Sound is less inhabited, Pelorus By contrast, anchored. ‘working contain although most of the waters related that bring numerous farms’ aquaculture activities of the bays. to many popular locations the outer Sounds are of The waters fishing, of for and sailing; with the frequency diving by or less dictated all of these activities being more in the bays sheltered Often conditions. the weather winds the exposed from refuge outer sounds provide during storms. Long Strait of Cook currents and strong the water from available are views distance panoramic Coast and the Kapiti Mt.Taranaki where to the horizon, be seen. can often that the natural influence urban settlements The key its main port include Picton, of the water and character and its marina, Havelock Waikawa Bay, Shakespeare and its marina and Okiwi Bay. Collective Experiential Characteristics of the Characteristics Experiential Collective Environment Sounds Marine Marlborough 40

Terrestrial

Collective Characteristics of the Marlborough t.z. 11A, and 11B schist, and well to poorly bedded Sounds Terrestrial Environment sandstone-siltstone sedimentary rocks of theTorlesse Supergroup. D’Urville Island and surrounds are The Marlborough Sounds is a nationally important underlain by ultrabasic, intermediate, and acid landscape with extensive wild and scenic areas and intrusive and extrusive rocks, and serpentinitic an intricate coastline with numerous islands. Strong melange (collectively known as the mineral belt winds often dominate the land. Islands provide a rocks); and associated hard and very hard poorly refuge for threatened species and seabirds dominate bedded and well bedded sandstone and siltstone the maritime ecosystems natural to the area. Natural sedimentary strata. biota characteristic of a Gondwanaland remnant with highly distinctive species such as tuatara. Steep Soils derived from the ultrabasic rocks have severe gradients in wind velocity from north to south. nutrient imbalances and sometimes toxic levels of exchangeable magnesium, whereas those derived from Brook Street Volcanic Group rocks are of medium Collective Abiotic Characteristics of the fertility, and those from siliceous sedimentary and Marlborough Sounds Terrestrial Environment schist rocks range from low to medium fertility. The landscape of the Marlborough Sounds is dominated by steep to very steep hill and mountain slopes, sea cliffs, rocky shorelines and islands. The partial drowning of an established incised dendritic drainage network by subsidence and marine incursion has resulted in an intricate array of small inlets, coves, headlands, peninsulas, deeply recessed bays and harbours. Undulating to rolling and gently sloping fluvial depositional landforms such as terraces, fans and floodplains are a minor component of the landscape. Barrier spits and tombolos, estuaries and lagoons, rolling sandy beaches, beach ridges and dunes, and prograding inlet head and river deltas are present but are also a minor landscape component.

The outer Sounds are exposed, with very steep to precipitous coastal escarpments and sea cliffs, extensive bare rock, steep coastal slopes, sinuous headlands, and numerous islands and stacks facing onto the Tasman Sea, Cook Strait, or the South Pacific Ocean. These erosional landforms result from and are continually rejuvenated by the high wave energy. In contrast, while steep rocky shorelines are common in the more sheltered inner Sounds, precipitous sea cliffs are not a feature.

The Marlborough Sounds are underlain by a variety of rocks ranging from siliceous, weakly to strongly foliated textural zone (t.z.) 11B, 111A and 111B schist, and poorly bedded and well bedded sedimentary sandstones and siltstones, and minor igneous lithologies of the Caples Group; and weakly foliated Above: Cooks scurvy grass, Lepidium oleraceum

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 SECTION C 41 ); novae-zelandiae aff. and M. obovatus June 2014 Above: Karaka trees were planted by Māori as a source of food macmahonii) and carrot subsp. macmahonii (Celmisia belt D’Urville hebe mineral (Anisotome haastii var.); mahoe Strait ); two Cook sulcata (Hebe rigidula var. (Melicytus aff. lessoniana); fierce bamboo tussock (Anemanthele milktree ); large-leaved ferox lancewood (Pseudopanax (); Euphorbia glauca ); sand spurge banksii (Streblus ). antarctica white mistletoe (Tupeia unusual community outstanding and Nationally plant maritime terrestrial Strait types include: Cook belt and lowland mineral coastal communities; islands; and Mt. and reptile bird Stokes communities; with nationally associated Habitats alpine zone. free species include: predator and endangered rare tuatara, kakariki, such as kaka, species (for habitats frog, white mistletoe, little spotted kiwi, Hamilton’s and South Island saddleback); riparian vegetation; such as species (for vegetation maritime terrestrial bristle tussock, and fierce Strait Kirkianella, Cook species such as (for vegetation lancewood); coastal and bird and sand spurge); milk tree large-leaved and scurvy grass species such as Cook’s islands (for groundsel). mutton bird mammalian introduced Islands which lack one or more ecosystems Vulnerable rare. nationally pests are include coastal environment unique to the coastal as such of some species, movement dunes. Natural and sea. between land and penguins move sea birds of natural between areas of wildlife movement Natural vegetation Marlborough Coastal Study | Coastal Marlborough In terms of indigenous vegetation, there are a few a few are there indigenous vegetation, In terms of at low altitude where topography of gentle land areas compromised. has not been significantly naturalness of karaka cover is an indigenous forest there Here to the Sounds], introduced [this species has been podocarps titoki, occasional tawa, ngaio, kohekohe, D’Urville Island, Mt. and and southern rata. Stokes much of Inlet retain Tennyson of upper the forests contribution making a major their indigenous cover, of the Sounds as a whole. character to the natural and old growth Steep lands with regenerating despite character, natural provide indigenous forest is pattern overall The a long history of modification. in the west. is better retained character that natural of the natural representative are These western areas to the Sounds and their preservation intrinsic character to the greatly would contribute and restoration Where Sounds as a whole. of the character natural exist in areas indigenous vegetation predominantly they of the Pelorus, the east, and in low altitude areas and modified landscape up the predominantly break of character to the natural contribution a strong make the Sounds as a whole. to habitat is due heterogeneity diversity High natural natural Generally, of island refugia. and the presence with the Sounds, across is moderate productivity (seabird high productivity of extremely limited areas (ultramafic low productivity and of very islands) influenced strongly are biotic patterns Natural areas). climatic and strong substrate landforms, by intricate (high hinterland between the Pelorus gradients (low rainfall/ narrows Strait wind) to Cook rainfall/low winds). strong habitat important the for The Sounds provide at- threatened, of a number of nationally survival the giant including: risk or locally endemic species, and hochstetteri bicolor land snails (Powelliphanta ; (Anagotus ‘stephenenis’) ); ngaio weevil obscura P. stephenensis); land snail (Rhytida greenwoodi click Strait giant weta (Deinacrida rugosa); Cook Strait shag; Cook dolphin; king beetle; Hector’s striped gecko; Island tuatara; and Brothers tuatara Cook’s and Maud Island frog; frog Hamilton’s ); muttonbird oleraceum (Lepidium scurvy grass ’; ); Kirkianella ‘glauca (Senecio sterquilinus groundsel bristle tussock Strait (Hebe speciosa); Cook titirangi ; Mt. petrosum) cushion daisy (Rytidosperma Stokes Collective Biotic Characteristics of the Biotic Characteristics Collective Environment Terrestrial Sounds Marlborough 42

Collective Characteristics of the Marlborough but not considered threatened are banded kokopu , Sounds Freshwater Environment common bully and shortfin eel.

There is an abundance of small coastal streams Riparian, wetland and estuarine habitat and water with good water quality and in-stream habitat quality; unimpeded passage for migratory fish, which makes the area nationally significant for its including coastal access; low trout densities; and the native fishery values. absence of other exotic fish, all contribute importantly to sustaining native freshwater fish and invertebrate species diversity found in the Marlborough Sounds. Collective Abiotic Characteristics of the Numerous small estuaries, wetlands and streams are Marlborough Sounds Freshwater Environment vulnerable to disturbance. The gullies within the Sounds are generally small with short, often ephemeral watercourses. There is an abundance of small coastal streams located throughout the Sounds. There is a strong climatic gradient between the Pelorus hinterland (i.e. beyond the coastal environment – i.e. high rainfall) to Cook Strait – i.e. low rainfall, which influences the catchment size and summer low flows. Above: Banded kokopu Natural water quality of the Marlborough Sounds is generally very high although degraded in some Natural biotic patterns are complex. Strongly lowland river catchments from farming activities (e.g. influenced by intricate landforms, substrate patterns, Kaituna) and localised contamination from septic tanks strong climatic gradients between Pelorus hinterland and other wastewater discharges or seepages. (high rainfall) to Cook Strait (low rainfall).

Generally very clear, cool waters flow from forested catchments. Plantation forest harvesting activities and Collective Experiential Characteristics of the slash management compromise water quality and Marlborough Sounds Terrestrial and Freshwater habitat episodically. Environment

Freshwater invertebrate populations typically reflect As outlined in relation to the experiential the conditions of high water quality with a large characteristics of the marine environment, the number of more sensitive insect groups such as caddis Marlborough Sounds are extensive and convoluted, and mayflies. providing a diverse range of experiences. Due to the methodology adopted for this study, there will be some cross-over with the experiential characteristics Collective Biotic Characteristics of the of the marine descriptions, due principally to the close Marlborough Sounds Freshwater Environment interplay of the marine and terrestrial components. High freshwater diversity exists due to habitat Irrespective of this, the Sounds as a whole is a heterogeneity, and coastal proximity. There is a wide nationally rare and important landform containing a range of natural levels of biological productivity. and range of biophysical, social, experiential attributes. a valued trout fishery in large catchments such as the The network of headlands, slender coastlines, Pelorus. Water abstraction is reducing habitat values razorback ridges, narrow peninsulas, vegetated peaks in some waterways. Very diverse native fisheries and rocky islands culminate in making the terrestrial are present in small low-gradient coastal streams, component of the Sounds very memorable. Renowned particularly in the outer Sounds. both locally and nationally as a place to visit and reside, The sounds provides a habitat for a diverse range of the Sounds are one of this country’s most memorable native freshwater fish species including the following landscapes. The main areas of residential development threatened species (Allibone 2010) inanga, New are focussed within the eastern part of the Sounds, Zealand longfin eel koaro, torrentfish, blue-gill and around Queen Charlotte Sound and the main urban redfin bullies, torrentfish, shortjaw and giant kokopu, centre of the area, Picton. Here numerous small roads lamprey and dwarf galaxias. Also commonly found weave their way along narrow and sinuous landforms,

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 SECTION C 43  Very High Very Experiential  June 2014 Biotic Above: Of the numerous bays that demarcate Queen bays Of that demarcate Above: the numerous wharves and jetties, many shores, Charlotte Sound’s moorings can be found development while more exposed wild and rugged wild and exposed while more development opportunities. different Sounds offer of the outer areas the least are character of natural The highest areas on the more tend to be located modified and these exposed, isolated or the more difficult terrain, and headlands, prominent islands, such as locations, modified areas accessible, More and bays. cliffs rocky of typically hold lower levels bays such as sheltered areas, sheltered It is these more character. natural have human modifications where country, or ‘easy’ include activities and such as forestry, proliferated, of settlement. and areas marine farms Natural Character Attributes Character Natural  Overall Natural Character Rating Character Natural Overall Marlborough Coastal Study | Coastal Marlborough Degree of Natural Character of Natural Degree Abiotic Very High Very High to High Moderate Moderate to Low Moderate Low Low Very Level 2: Overall Sub-Regional Rating for the Marlborough Sounds (Marine & Terrestrial) Sounds (Marine & the Marlborough for Rating Sub-Regional 2: Overall Level connecting bays and small harbours. Houses often often harbours. Houses and small bays connecting localised on perched of these roads, many align with water. surrounding of the views to capture high points land use evident are of pasture and areas Forestry still clothed in are areas substantial however, practices; despite these modifications. indigenous vegetation, The western part Pelorus on is centred of the Sounds SH6 from via predominantly Sound and accessed different a slightly It retains Valley. Rai or the Havelock less obvious dwellings are residential where character, ‘working’ a more on to take and the land appears is seen in appearance This ‘working’ appearance. headlands large where land use practices large-scale of their occasionally been cleared and peninsulas have purposes. and forestry farming for original vegetation bush cover native where areas however, are, There an alternative assisting in providing is regenerating, aquaculture In the water, eco-tourism. through income within this western part. evident is also more of significant free often and are numerous Islands are where island sanctuaries, are Many modification. high. exceptionally are values indigenous biodiversity Sounds terrestrial of the Marlborough The variety of experiences range a diverse for allows environment environment. when visiting or living in the coastal parts the opportunity of the Sounds present Different and perceptions. experiences memories, different for parts of the community It that different is obvious value visitors) local or international (i.e. residents, inner sheltered The more parts of the Sounds. different of residential concentrations greater attract waters 44

The South Marlborough Sub-Region

The coastal environment to the south of the Sounds Collective Abiotic Characteristics of the South (‘South Marlborough’) comprises a slender strip of wide Marlborough Marine Environment river plains, numerous river mouths and crumpled The coast is exposed at times to strong winds and limestone and hard-rock hills. The climate is dry and large waves from the south, east and north-east. Cape generally hot and quite different from the Sounds. The Campbell offers some shelter from the south. Cold coast here is almost uniformly exposed, distinguished turbid waters prevail. by strong wave action, cold turbid waters, a wide Mixed sand and gravel beaches predominate, though continental shelf and long sand/gravel beaches intertidal and subtidal reefs are a dominant feature interrupted in places by nearshore reefs. The Wairau in the vicinity of Cape Campbell and are distributed Estuary (Vernon Lagoons) is a highly significant feature intermittently along the southern sector of this coast. of this coast. The continental shelf is broad and gently shelving in Marine this sub-region, dominated by silty sand, mud and in places gravels. Well offshore, the seabed drops steeply into the deep canyon systems associated with Cook Strait and the Hikurangi Trough. Collective Characteristics of the South Marlbor- ough Marine Environment The South Marlborough coast is distinguished by two large estuarine systems: The Wairau Estuary In contrast to the Marlborough Sounds, the South (Vernon Lagoons) at the mouth of the Wairau River, Marlborough coast is relatively simple with exposed and the much modified Lake Grassmere at the head open shores, broad curving bays and a wide gently of Clifford Bay. shelving continental shelf. Notable features include Cape Campbell, Wairau/Vernon lagoons and the region’s extensive mixed sand and gravel beaches. Collective Biotic Characteristics of the South The region is flanked in the north by the indented rocky Marlborough Marine Environment shoreline of the Marlborough Sounds’ outer eastern A relatively depauperate biota inhabits the mixed coast and in the south by expansive sand/gravel sand/gravel beaches. The more stable sediments shores extending down to and beyond the Clarence beyond the high-energy surf zone are home to a typical River mouth. It is bordered offshore by the depths of array of shellfish and mobile invertebrate species. the Cook Strait Canyon and landwards by the dry and Offshore beds of the giant kelp Macrocystis pyrifera are mostly modified hills and plains of South Marlborough. a distinctive feature in the vicinity of Cape Campbell.

Above: Gravel beach at Rarangi Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 SECTION C 45 June 2014 Extensive low-lying depositional landforms of depositional landforms low-lying Extensive gravel behind a protective and silts lie alluvial gravels the mouth of Cloudy across boulder bank formed beach ridges marine gravel rolling to Undulating Bay. with an active wetlands, inter-ridge and associated Wairau north area beach, occupy the of the gravel mouth/lagoon/estuary/ river mouth. A complex River broad channels, delta system of interlinked foot bird’s intertidal expansive small islands and shallow lagoons, White mouth to south of the river has developed flats in located centrally Grassmere, Lake Similarly, Cliffs. lagoon-lake a shallow brackish forms Bay, Clifford The bank. gravel-boulder behind a protective trapped River floodplains of the Awatere and recent terraces with and escarpments cliffs in low coastal terminate sand dune belts, beaches and narrow shoreline active mouth/beach river seamlessly to an active or transition bar and lagoon complex. of the southern component The hill country in steep to very terminates coastline Marlborough and abandoned sea cliffs or recently steep active wave- reefs; shoreline with extensive escarpments The headlands. and rocky outcrops cut platforms, weakly include loess-mantled, types present rock poorly bedded siltstone, sandstone consolidated Raoulia cushions Raoulia Above: Marlborough Coastal Study | Coastal Marlborough T The landscape of the exposed dynamic ocean dynamic ocean The landscape of the exposed by is dominated of South Marlborough coastline Bays), and Clifford (Cloudy open bays either large abandoned or recently steep active or steep to very to moderately rolling by strong backed sea cliffs Both have hill country. rock soft steep predominately coastlines. smooth straight relatively Collective Abiotic Characteristics of the Abiotic Characteristics Collective & Freshwater Terrestrial South Marlborough Environment The South Marlborough coast is exposed, oceanic and coast is exposed, The South Marlborough important It nationally has large mainly east-facing. of an array dunes, extensive wetland ecosystems, cliff several beaches, gravel and contemporary raised wetlands a series of small stream-mouth systems, The geological stacks. coastal and some dramatic of native in the high diversity reflected is complexity suites of regionally are There and fauna. vegetation dry adapted to the windy climate, endemic plants also are There types. rock and different habitats rocky and lizards. endemic species of invertebrates regionally errestrial of the South Characteristics Collective & Freshwater Terrestrial Marlborough Environment Intertidal and subtidal reefs support moderately supportIntertidal moderately and subtidal reefs of species assemblages representative diverse mobile Various swept conditions. wave moderate-high as well as numerous and encrusting invertebrates Notable reef seaweed species inhabit the reefs. and rocklobster bull kelp, dwelling species include ascidians and bryozoans. sponges, various is a significant Lagoons) (Vernon Estuary Wairau The saltmarsh with extensive estuarine ecosystem, (notably glasswort) avifauna. and a diverse and marine mammals are of seabirds A variety Hector's dolphins are seen offshore. regularly especially present dolphins are abundant and dusky winter Humpback whales are winter/spring. over migrants. 46

and conglomerates with minor amounts of more Collective Biotic Characteristics of the South resistant limestone. The limestone and calcareous Marlborough Terrestrial & Freshwater mudstones cover the structural components of the Environment landscape and the numerous coastal rock outcrops, Little natural vegetation remains due to the wave-cut platforms and reefs that extend outwards modification resulting from people's ready access on from the coast e.g., Mussel Point, Cape Campbell and the relatively gentle terrain, combined with the harsh Long Point. Steep deeply incised slotted gorges and climate, which is dry, often hot and frequently windy. gullies commonly cut through the sea cliffs. Narrow Originally the land would have been almost entirely accumulative debris slopes at the foot of abandoned forest-clad. Totara would have been dominant on hill former sea cliffs and narrow basal cliff beach sand country, accompanied by matai, black beech, kanuka dune belts are frequently present. Raised coastal and a range of broadleaved species. Kahikatea would terraces and gravel beaches are also present. have grown on the margins of wetlands, which would Extensive sand dune fields are present between have had fringing zones of harakeke, raupo, cabbage Willawa Point and the Waima River. North of the trees and various rushes and sedges. Coastal slopes Waima River from Mirza Creek to Needles Point and and terraces would have had forests dominated south of Cape Campbell strong south-easterly winds by ngaio. All these forests would have been alive drive migrating sand dunes up onto the toe and mid with birds (including flightless species), lizards and slopes of abandoned former sea cliffs to elevations invertebrates. Streams and wetlands would also have of more than 40 m. Hard rock hill slopes underlain by been full of animal life. Sufficient remnants of forests very strong well-bedded sandstone and mudstone and and wetlands exist to hint at what was once there. poorly bedded sandstone are of limited extent. Mostly, though, the only native vegetation where there was formerly forest is shrubland and silver tussock,

Above: Sand tussock duneland with pingao.

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 SECTION C 47 June 2014 Overall, there is considerable diversity of parent parent of diversity considerable is there Overall, quite a wide provides This and topography. material considerable in the and is reflected of habitats range fauna, despite the and flora of vegetation, diversity complexity, This modification. ecosystem of degree with the hot and coupled dry windy climate and in flora resulted has types, rock erosion-prone to peculiarly southern Marlborough adapted fauna the of and variety nature The dynamic ecosystems. to persist many in the coastal coast allows exposed Carmichaelia are Plant examples environment. astonii and muritai, C. astonii, Muehlenbeckia insignis. Pachystegia outstanding and unusual biotic community Nationally (Wairau, ridge communities beach types include: gravel boulder bank Wharanui), and Campbell Grassmere, and estuarine freshwater (Wairau), communities but also Grassmere), Wairau, (especially communities Campbell Grassmere, (Wairau, dune slack communities (Campbell limestone communities Wharanui), and communities rock endemic regionally Wharanui), and floodplain river and braided Wharanui) and (Campbell (Awatere). communities Marlborough Coastal Study | Coastal Marlborough (Coastal broom). tree muritai (Coastal Carmichaelia Above: simplified and depleted by domestic stock and farming stock and and depleted by domestic simplified also are wetlands and many Mostpractices. streams are as a result, to domestic stock and, accessible fish or waterfowl, native for not good habitats very invertebrates. beach ridge and beach terraces raised The dunes, cover Their primeval and distinctive. large systems are a mosaic that been sand-binders, included would have such as trees and hardy cushion plants tough shrubs, although mostly lot Quite a of this still remains, ngaio. now dominates grass Marram to remnants. reduced the them and preventing smothering the dunes, optimum ebb and flow of sand that provides mediated and lizards birds, coastal native for conditions invertebrates. coastal prolific of the originally remnant A recovering number of in the growing is present fauna (petrels sea birds fur seals. Burrowing New Zealand but be could gone completely, have and shearwaters) re-introduced. 48

Collective Experiential Characteristics of the South Marlborough Terrestrial & Freshwater Environment

The broad, open and extensive coastline of South Marlborough is spatially and profoundly different from the narrow convoluted waterways and channels of the Marlborough Sounds located to the north. The broad plains of the Wairau and Awatere Rivers broad plains form relatively long open and flat coastline, providing panoramic views of the seascape. The Wairau Lagoons and Lake Grassmere amplify the openness of the area. These areas also present the greatest opportunities to access the coast, where roads and coastal settlements (including Rarangi) provide direct access for a range of recreational activities. The remaining areas of the coastal environment are rugged and farmed, so that public access across the privately often difficult.

Particularly memorable features of the South Marlborough coastline include the Wairau Lagoons, White Bluffs, Lake Grassmere, Cape Campbell and the southern rugged limestone coastline, containing features including Chancet Rocks and the Needles. Whilst access is more restrictive in these southern areas, they provide extremely memorable experiences, due to the range of sculpted rocks, the marine wildlife and the active and dramatic surf.

In contrast to the Sounds, the exposed south coast allows for little safe boat access to the sea. Above: The vivid pink salt ponds of Lake Grassmere.

Level 2: Overall Sub-Regional Rating for South Marlborough (Marine & Terrestrial)

Natural Character Attributes Degree of Natural Character Abiotic Biotic Experiential

Very High High  Moderate to High   Moderate

Moderate to Low

Low

Very Low

Overall Natural Character Rating Moderate to High

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 SECTION C 49 June 2014 Marlborough Coastal Study | Coastal Marlborough A seal on the south coastline of Marlborough A seal on the south coastline 50

Study Findings: Coastal Natural Character Values at the Sub-Regional scale (Level 2)

This summary section identifies the characteristics, South Marlborough, where much of the land has values and evaluation of the two sub regions: the been cleared for pasture and is generally devoid Marlborough Sounds and South Marlborough (i.e. of its natural cover, is more modified than the at Level 2 of diagram on page 27). Marlborough Sounds. Pockets of existing bush and areas of regenerating bush are gradually improving The overall natural character rating for each sub- the sub–region’s natural character, however. region is: Very High for the Marlborough Sounds and Moderate to High for South Marlborough. More detailed descriptions of the areas within these sub-regions (i.e. described at detail levels 3, Within the sub-regions, forestry, farming, 4 & 5 shown in Figure 6) are contained in Section aquaculture and houses/ structures are important D (Marlborough Sounds) and Section E (South land uses that modify the coastal environment, Marlborough) of this report. so, where these are abundant, natural character values are lower. The coastal environment of

Summary Table of Natural Character Evaluation at the 'Sub-Regional' scale (i.e. Level 2):

Sub Regional Scale - Natural Character Rating

1 Marlborough Sounds Very high

2 South Marlborough Moderate- High

Above: The Awatere River Mouth Lagoon in South Marlborough.

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014 51 SECTION C

Legend Extent of Coastal Environment

Marlborough Sounds Sub-Region

South Marlborough Sub-Region

N MAP 5: COASTAL NATURAL CHARACTER

0 5 10km VALUES AT THE 'SUB-REGIONAL' SCALE (LEVEL 2) 52

Marlborough Coastal Study | June 2014