TE WHAU SHARED PATHWAY

Landscape and Visual Assessment FINAL

3 April 2019

Prepared for Beca Ltd

LANDWRITERS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Te Whau Shared Pathway will connect Manukau Harbour with the Waitemata Harbour through a series of boardwalks, bridges and concrete paths set within and alongside the Whau estuary.

Key objectives are to provide a new pathway for cyclists and walkers that will cross the isthmus, connect the local Te Whau communities with the city cycle network, and create better connections to the river itself and its rich ecological and cultural heritage.

This report assesses the landscape and visual effects of the Te Whau Shared Pathway (the shared pathway) at a ‘Consenting Envelope’ level – more refined than a general scheme assessment, but prior to final route selection and detailed design.

There will be adverse effects on landscape/riverscape and visual amenity as a result of the shared pathway, primarily as a result of the visibility of the new boardwalk structure, and due to the works within the intertidal area and limited earthworks on river embankments, both of which will require vegetation to be removed.

At a broad scale the pathway is considered an appropriate use in terms of landscape, natural character and visual amenity matters for the following reasons:

· The boardwalk is enhancing and extending public access to the river and between the existing network of parks and paths along the Whau River. · Te Whau River is identified as a Significant Ecological Area (Marine 2) and contains important natural elements, patterns and processes including estuarine vegetation and bird habitat however it is also modified and flows through a highly modified environment. · Neither the estuary nor its margins are considered to be an area of Outstanding or High Natural Character. Neither has it been identified as an Outstanding Natural Feature or Landscape. · The concrete paths are at-grade and will be constructed in an environment where this type of pathway already exists and is part of a typical managed parkland character. · The boardwalk will add modification to the river and margins however as a recreational facility with coastal/maritime associations, the boardwalks will complement the landscape context and integrate with the open space setting and estuarine environment. · The boardwalk will require localised disturbance to landform and vegetation removal. By progressively building the structure, the scale of the intervention can be limited largely to the alignment. · The planting recommended as part of the project will enhance visual amenity, indigenous habitat values and natural character of the wider area over the long term. · Due to the topography, road layout and intervening built development and riparian vegetation, close views to the boardwalk structures will largely be restricted to recreation users, industrial properties and a limited number of dwellings.

The highest level of adverse effects will occur at a localised scale for a limited number of residents close to the shared pathway where the boardwalk structure and its use will form a new and immediately apparent part of the landscape. Changes have been proposed to the alignment to limit the potential for high visual amenity effects on these residents at Koromiko Ave.

Overall however, in terms of its length, sculptural form and function, the boardwalk and shared pathway will become a landmark for the community around Te Whau River with improved amenity

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through connectivity and recreational opportunities. At a broad scale, these qualities will help to offset any sense of the structure being out of scale or intrusive in the river and landscape.

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Contents

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ...... 1 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 4 1.1 BACKGROUND AND METHODOLOGY ...... 5 2. PROPOSAL ...... 6 3.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT ...... 9 3.1 BROAD CONTEXT ...... 9 3.2 LOCAL CONTEXT ...... 11 4.0 PLANNING CONTEXT ...... 15 4.1 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACT (RMA) ...... 15 4.2 NEW ZEALAND COASTAL POLICY STATEMENT (NZCPS) 2010 ...... 15 4.3 AUCKLAND UNITARY PLAN: ...... 15 5 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS ...... 17 5.1 CONSTRUCTION EFFECTS...... 18 5.2 LANDSCAPE AND NATURAL CHARACTER EFFECTS ...... 18 5.3 VISUAL EFFECTS ...... 20 6 RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES ...... 27 7. CONCLUSIONS ...... 28 APPENDIX ONE ...... 30 APPENDIX TWO ...... 31

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1 INTRODUCTION

This landscape and visual assessment has been prepared for Beca Ltd on behalf of Auckland Council to support a resource consent application for the construction and use of the Te Whau shared pathway in West Auckland.

A 15km shared walking and cycle route, the Te Whau Pathway will connect Manukau Harbour with the Waitemata Harbour (refer to Figure 1 below) to form part of a wider recreation and transport network.

Between Green Bay on the Manukau Harbour and Olympic Park, little change is required as part of this proposal as the pathway will comprise of an existing shared path and on-road cycle lane. Therefore, this assessment is primarily concerned with the section from Olympic Park in New Lynn to Te Atatu South at the SH16 bridge where the path will consist of new concrete sections on land and boardwalk sections in the Whau estuary.

The assessment describes potential effects in relation to three main areas – effects on the natural character of the area, visual amenity, and landscape/riverscape character, and should be read in conjunction with the scheme drawings provided in Appendix A to the AEE.

Waitemata Harbour

Manukau Harbour

Figure 1: Aerial showing Te Whau River and broad landscape context

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1.1 BACKGROUND AND METHODOLOGY The methodology of this assessment is guided by the relevant objectives and policies of the AUP, the NZILA and NZTA landscape assessment guidance notes1. Effects are also considered at a high level in terms of Part 2, sections 6 and 7 of the RMA 1991, and relevant sections of the NZCPS, particularly in relation to natural character of the coastal environment.

The assessment process has involved the following stages:

· Two separate site visits to publicly accessible viewpoints along the Whau River area and visits on each occasion to the flats at 40 Koromiko Street; · Photographs were taken to assist with site description and analysis. · Desktop investigations including review of: o Scheme Design Layout Plans 080818, hand annotated with proposed changes (received 25 October 2018); o Urban and Landscape Design Framework, o Draft Construction Methodology (Beca) and Ecology Assessment (Wildlands, August 2018); o relevant statutory and non-statutory documents (in particular the Unitary Plan and the NZ Coastal Policy Statement); o Google Earth and Street View images, aerial photographs, and topographic maps; · Analysis of the existing character of the route and surrounding area, and key viewpoints and viewing audiences. · An assessment of natural character, landscape and visual effects, including discussion of the mitigation measures that have been developed as part of the design and others that are recommended.

A five-point scale is used to describe the level of adverse effects:

· Negligible/Low/Moderate//High/Extreme.

Further detail on the definition of the effects rankings is included within Appendix 1.

Terms of Reference

The visual assessment was undertaken with the following limitations:

· The assessment is of a broad ‘consenting envelope’ as the engineering design of the proposed scheme was at a preliminary stage during the time the assessment was undertaken. Further design refinements in the subsequent stages may lead to changes, including a reduction in impacts. · Given the length of the pathway, the number of adjoining residential properties and the limited number of publicly accessible vantage points of the boardwalk the assessment was predominantly a desktop exercise using maps and Google Earth to determine the visual catchment and potentially affected properties. In considering the extent of visual effects further, determining higher risk areas and identifying key representative locations, reference was also made to the assessment undertaken by Brown NZ Ltd during the Scheme Assessment stage. It is considered that this approach captures those areas and properties where the highest degree of visual effect may occur. While it is considered that all other

1 Best Practice Note: Landscape Assessment and Sustainable Management 10.1. (2010), New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects; and NZTA Landscape and Visual Assessment Guidelines (draft) October 2013

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areas will experience a lower degree of effect it is also noted that as the consent application will be publicly notified there is an opportunity to undertake further targeted analysis as the project progresses. · Photo montages and visual simulations have not been undertaken while the Project remains subject to detail design.

The principal elements of the Project that will give rise to landscape and visual effects are described in the following section.

2. PROPOSAL Project Description

Te Whau Pathway is a shared path that will link the Waitemata and Manukau Harbours. The principle main alignment is approximately 11.8km with 3.2 km of connecting paths, a total length of 15km. The path will largely follow the western side of the Whau River and will be designed to accommodate pedestrians and cyclists.

Te Whau Pathway will provide a high-quality shared path that is safe and almost entirely segregated from vehicular traffic. It will also provide connections to the wider cycle network including the New Lynn/ Avondale rail link and the North Western motorway cycle path.

The project started as the Whau West Greenway in 2011/12 a concept put forward by Whau River Catchment Trust and the Greenways Project Inc. It was presented and approved in principle by the Whau Local Board. A similar concept was promoted in 2013 through a HOOP-LA research project called Muddy Urbanism. The river edge pathway idea started to gain traction and in 2014 the Whau Coastal Walkway Environmental Trust was established by a group of locals keen to bring the vision into being.

Te Whau Pathway Project is a collaborative partnership project between the Whau Coastal Walkway Environmental Trust, Auckland Council, Auckland Transport, the Whau and Henderson-Massey Local Boards, Te Kawerau a Maki and Ngati Whatua Orakei.

The Whau catchment is a mixture of residential, commercial and industrial development, historically the Whau river has a long history of human transportation. Maori for centuries used the Whau as an important route for transporting waka between the two coasts of Te Ika a Maui. For Tangata Whenua, the water has significant spiritual values especially revealed in its alternative Maori name Waitahurangi (“Waters of Tahurangi”). Through the TWP Project and subsequent development of the pathway, there will be opportunity to share both the local and cultural stories of the Whau river and surrounding catchment through education and interpretative signage.

The construction of the pathway will deliver 3m wide concrete paths on land and 4m wide boardwalks through the coastal marine area. The overall pathway will connect 33 reserves, esplanade reserves, sports parks and roads. The pathway will also connect the various communities of Green Bay, New Lynn, Avondale, Kelston, Glendene and Te Atatu as well as a number of schools.

At the beginning of 2017, Auckland Transport sought public feedback on the scheme plan and preliminary design for the Te Whau Pathway Route. In June 2017, the scheme plans and preliminary design was completed.

The pathway is being built in stages. Construction for the earlier stages began in 2015. Between 2015 and 2016 pathways were completed at Archibald, Ken Maunder, Olympic Park, McLeod park.

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Roberts Field and Tiroroa Reserve were completed in 2018. To date, 3.9km of pathway has been constructed. Just under 700m of pathway at Rizal/Sandy Lane is currently in detail design phase to be delivered in FY19/20 and is not included in this resource consent application. This Resource Consent application applies to the remaining approximately 10.4km of path, comprising approximately 7.1km of proposed boardwalk and 3.3km of proposed footpath.

During 2017, a concept design for the remainder of the pathway was undertaken. The dates below outline the series of events:

· March / April 2017 – Public feedback on the scheme plan and preliminary design; · June 2017 – Scheme plan and preliminary design complete; · 2017 / 2018 – Completed construction of paths in Roberts Field, Tiroroa Reserve; · 2017 / 2018 – Planned construction of paths in Queen Mary Reserve (application no. LUC60307203) and Rizal Reserve (application no. LUC60307205); · 2018 / 2019 – Current resource consent application prepared and applied for the remaining sections for Te Whau Pathway (including coastal marine area boardwalk).

On completion the pathway will feature strategically placed seating, viewing and rest areas and art work. Weed control and community plantings of native plant species will also be delivered through the project. The development of the pathway will be a significant link in Auckland’s network of cycling and walking routes and will aim to improve community connection to and appreciation of the Whau River.

Detailed design of the structure, including final alignment in the identified consenting envelope and materials has yet to occur. For the purposes of the consent application, an envelope approach has been adopted to provide some flexibility and to continue the opportunities for engagement when determining the final design.

Design considerations and elements

In the early stages of the scheme plans, an urban and landscape design framework was prepared defining design principles and concepts in order to guide design development.

The Urban and Landscape Design Framework (the ULDF) notes that the overarching principles for the design of the pathway include:

· Te Hau o Te Whau - recognising and celebrating the coastal experience, environmental quality and rich cultural heritage of Te Whau. This includes designing the boardwalk to minimise impact on intertidal and coastal edge habitats; managing weed species and developing and restoring native coastal vegetation; and raising levels of environmental awareness and becoming a catalyst for ongoing environmental improvements (ULDF – section 7.5, March 2017). · A coastal experience - Provide access to the river at appropriate locations (ULDF – section 7.5, March 2017). The opportunity to improve community access to Te Whau river for recreation – therefore the design incorporates new accessible connections, located at Ken Maunder Park, Lauriston Park, Roberts Road Reserve and Bridge Ave near Te Atatu Boat Club.

A key, ongoing design consideration has also been sea level rise and coastal processes.

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There has been ongoing consultation as part of the project, with changes being made to the design as a result of feedback. Changes include:

· Lowering the boardwalk height throughout route from 3.46m AVD to 2.89m AVD. · Moving the alignment in Rizal Reserve to follow the land due to constructability and cost issues with the boardwalk at this location. · Moving the pathway away from potential banded rail saltmarsh habitat.

Key elements of the proposal within the consenting envelope include:

· Approximately 3.1km of ‘at grade’ paths on land. These will be 3m wide to allow enough room for cyclists to pass each other and will be constructed of concrete 75 to 100mm thick. · Approximately 7.1km of boardwalk to extend over intertidal mudflats and low-lying vegetated margins. · The board walk will be 4m wide and the deck will sit at a maximum height of 2.9m AVD. The AVD is the mean sea level for Auckland. That means the height of the boardwalk above the seabed will vary but, being generally located in the river margins and away from the deeper channel, will typically be less than 2.9m from the seabed. · The deck and beam elements will be constructed from either treated timber (H6), concrete, steel, and/or fibre reinforced plastic (FRP). · The piles will be constructed from either treated timber (H6 or higher) (approx. 250mm dia), reinforced concrete (approx. 200mm dia), or FRP. · The spacing of the piles is expected to be 4-6m. · There will be guard rails along either side of the deck, approximately 1.4m high above the deck level. · The path/boardwalk will be lit at night to P3 standard with LED lighting in the handrails, directed downwards. · There are also several places where the route crosses channels where tributaries join the Te Whau River. While the construction methods will largely be the same as the Boardwalk, the design is likely to be different. The piles may be larger diameter (300-400mm) for example, and longer spans and deeper deck sections may be necessary. These matters will be resolved during detailed design but for the purposes of this assessment, a similar but ‘heavier’ design than the boardwalk is assumed.

Key elements of the construction process include:

· To construct the at-grade paths, minor earthworks to remove grass, topsoil and vegetation will be required. · To construct the boardwalk sections, access tracks, swamp matts and temporary staging may be required. Vegetation will be cleared to allow for their use however they will be removed following construction. · A ‘build as you go’ or similar method of construction is also envisaged for the boardwalk, where continuing works can be carried out from the previously constructed boardwalk segment. · Staging, access, and laydown areas and a construction compound/s will also be required and are proposed in parks along the route.

The full Project is described in detail in the Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE) and in the scheme drawings provided in Appendix A to the AEE.

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3.0 EXISTING ENVIRONMENT

3.1 BROAD CONTEXT The Whau River is located on the western edge of the Auckland isthmus and flows into the Waitemata Harbour between Rosebank Peninsula and Te Atatu Peninsula.

The estuarial river starts below the confluence of the Avondale and Whau Streams and extends over 5.5km to its mouth at the SH16 Bridge. Its characteristics change as the river flows to the sea. From a narrow tidal creek near Olympic Park with dense mangroves, exotic trees and weed species on the margins and steep embankments, the channel widens to as much as approximately 150m towards the mouth with extensive intertidal flats so that the total estuary width is more than 1km in places.

The riparian edge is highly indented, made up of numerous embayments, tributaries and inlets, particularly along the west bank. There is a 3m tidal range (Te Whau Pathway ULDF, 2017).

The entire Whau catchment covers approximately 30km2 across many suburbs from Mt Albert to Glen Eden. The land has become heavily urbanised however there are also many areas of green space on the river margins.

Laurieston Park

Span Farm Cobham Reserve Archibald Park

Ken Maunder Park

Olympic Park

Figure 2: Unitary Plan land use zones

Biophysical Values

Te Whau is an important, legible landscape feature framed by strips of reserve and parkland and considerable urban residential and industrial development. The river is not identified as an Outstanding Natural Landscape or Feature in the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP) but is identified as a Significant Ecological Area (Marine 2).

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Estuaries such as Te Whau are complex ecological systems that mark the transition between fresh water and the open coast. The tidal river mixes salt and fresh waters providing a unique, potentially productive habitat. While very little indigenous vegetation cover remains in the wider area, the mangroves and saltmarsh that thrive in the estuarine river environment provide several important ecosystem services such as stabilising sediment, filtering water, and providing habitat for a range of plants and animals, particularly birdlife.

The fluctuating ebb and flow of the tide also impart a strong sense of naturalness, the mudflats and mangroves are expressive of the interplay between the coastal and estuarine processes, the vegetation patterns reinforcing the estuarine landform.

Catchment development and land use activities such as stormwater runoff from roads and buildings have modified the quality and values of the estuary. Investigations by Auckland Council indicate that the overall health of the estuary’s tidal flats and water quality is poor. While the river itself is largely free of built structures there are a few large scale modifications such as the National Grid pylons and the SH16 and Rata Street bridges and it is framed by built development.

The original coastal forest is severely degraded with exotic weed species prevalent however remnant pockets remain and recent community planting and weed control initiatives are working towards restoring ecological health.

The most sensitive habitats are the tall coastal and mangrove forest margins, critically at risk coastal forest and remnants and low flow channels. The low growing mangrove forest between channels are the most abundant.

Associative

The land surrounding the estuary has a mix of different residential, commercial and industrial land uses as well as areas of open space and road corridors. Narrow ribbons of reserve land line much of the coastal margins. Vegetation limits accessibility to these strips and the water’s edge, however there are a number of parks and reserves that provide the community with open space areas (see Figure 2).

Formal public access on the west bank is limited to a boat ramp at Archibald Park while private facilities include Te Atatu Boat Club wharves and launching facilities and private consented jetties.

Nevertheless, the river and margins have a long history of recreational use including walking, bird watching, picnicking in the adjacent parks, kayaking, waka ama, and as a base for a local sea scouts club. In the past, Te Whau has also been enjoyed for swimming and commercial and recreational fishing activities.

The estuary also has a long history as a connecting route between harbours. It has many layers of narrative including deep, long standing cultural heritage associations for Mana Whenua. Maori used the Whau as an important travel route between the harbours and as a food resource with seasonal Maori settlements located at the mouth of the river. European settlers also used the river for marine transport with boats carrying local products to and from wharves at New Lynn.

A New Zealand report on the uses and values of estuarine ecosystems2 notes that we are beginning to fully recognise the societal benefits and values supported by estuaries. An example of this rising

2 Simon F.Thrush, Michael Townsend, Judi E. Hewitt, Kate Davies, Andrew M. Lohrer, Carolyn Lundquist, Katie Cartner, THE MANY USES AND VALUES OF ESTUARINE ECOSYSTEMS, 2013, Landcare Research

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awareness is the formation of community based groups, Friends of the Whau and Whau River Catchment Trust to improve the health of the Whau River environment.

Sensory/Perceptual

The obvious presence of tidal activity and estuarine flows in the river impart a strong sense of naturalness. However, there are limited opportunities for connectivity with the Te Whau estuary. Despite the public parks and reserves that primarily occur along the western river margins, they are generally located at the end of suburban no-through roads and few provide access directly to the water’s edge. The topography of the area, and the presence of the river means the street network is a labyrinth of cul-de- sacs and windy roads.

Other key public viewing opportunities are from roads, particularly SH16 across the mouth of Te Whau River, and from the river itself.

Private residents on the estuary edge are likely to enjoy a range of views to Te Whau; from those where the estuary may appear peripheral and partially obscured by development or tall coastal vegetation, to other views that are expansive.

The mangroves that typically occupy the intertidal areas create a visual and physical barrier to the main water channels. Weed species are also prevalent along the coastal edge and inlets of Te Whau and waste has been common in the past. However, ‘clean-up days’ and recent plantings are enhancing aesthetic and amenity values.

3.2 LOCAL CONTEXT For the purpose of this assessment, the route of the shared pathway has been divided into 5 sections. Most of the shared pathway runs along the western side of Te Whau so this is the area focused on. A brief description of the proposed changes within each section is also provided. Chainage given is approximate.

Green Bay to Olympic Park

Much of this section is characterised by large areas of open space and established trees, particularly associated with the Titirangi Golf Course, as well as passing through residential and commercial/light industrial areas towards the intersection with Wolverton Street.

Vegetation within the consenting envelope is dominated by exotic grassland but includes small areas of pohutukawa and pine.

Key elements of the proposal include (refer to Sheets 1-8, General Layout Plan):

· A minor reconfiguration of the carpark; · New concrete path in Open Space Zone along the existing eastern verge of Portage Road (Chainage 0-520); · At the intersection of Portage Road and Wolverton Street, a short section of new path is proposed along the north side of Wolverton Street, which will be an upgrade of an existing footpath (Chainage 2400-2510).

There is an existing shared path and on-road cycle lane that will form most of the route with little landscape change, so the focus of this assessment is on the following sections.

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Olympic Park to Ken Maunder Park:

Refer to Site Photographs V1-5, Appendix Two

These upper reaches of the Whau River are narrow and confined within steep banks. The intertidal area and embankments primarily contain dense mangroves and a mix of indigenous and exotic forest. The river broadens to approximately 85m-100m between banks at Ken Maunder Park, upstream of the Rata Street bridge.

The eastern side or true right of this section of river is primarily residential while the western side is dominated by commercial and industrial land use. Large pylons share some of the riparian corridor.

The proposed alignment will pass through Rizal Reserve which is located on the true right of the river between Wingate Street and the Rata Street bridge. The reserve forms a predominantly grassy corridor between the river and residential property boundaries incorporating an existing pathway and a small section of existing boardwalk which spans the inlet near Corregidor Place. A concrete path at the end of Corregidor Place leads to a small memorial dedicated to Jose Rizal, installed by the Filipino Community.

The route will also pass by a new subdivision that is being constructed at Sandy Lane. The subdivision area extends along an inlet down to the Whau River at the northern end of Rizal Reserve.

Throughout this section, the board walk structure will mostly be situated in the CMA and within existing mangroves along the true right of the Whau River.

Key elements of the proposal include (refer to Sheets 9-13):

· An upgrade of an existing narrow path through Olympic Park to a 3m shared path (Chainage 2550-2720) before connecting with an existing shared path; · At Chainage 2880, where the existing path ends, the route properly encounters the Te Whau River for the first time. A new boardwalk is proposed, approximately 1100m long. It will pass under the Rail Bridge, cross to the margins of the true right of the river and wind under Great North Road as far as Rizal Reserve. However, a wider consenting envelope is proposed at the approach to Rizal Reserve to allow for a land-based option for part of this section. · At Rizal Reserve, the existing short bridge will be bypassed with a new 40m section of boardwalk that will span the inlet near Corregidor Place. · An additional 130m section of boardwalk will span another inlet immediately north of Rizal Reserve and connect to existing concrete paths at the top of the Rata Street Bridge. Pohutukawa in this location is likely to be removed. · A stairway is proposed as a potential connection to St Marys School. · A stairway or path option is also proposed to enable connection with Great North Road.

Ken Maunder Park to Archibald Park:

Refer to Site Photographs V6-8, Appendix Two

This section is flanked by the two large, open parks. A smaller area of open space, Queen Mary Reserve, and residential housing occupy the river’s edge in between.

Taroa Stream and a second unnamed creek flow north into Te Whau, creating sizable inlets. The river widens noticeably; there is approximately 350m between the Koromiko Ave and Lynwood Road area and the nearest point opposite.

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The land at Ken Maunder and Queen Mary Reserve slopes gently to the edge of the river with some dwellings off Queen Mary Avenue as low as 2m-3m above sea level. The elevation and steepness of the banks increases between Kelston Street and Archibald Park with the nearest residential properties typically elevated between 3m-7m above sea level.

Vegetation is typically dominated by exotic grassland in the parks with mixed indigenous and exotic treeland on the coastal edge, including pest plants. Mangrove shrubland/forest lines the river channel.

Between Koromiko Street and Lynwood Road where the river edge retains an elevated coastal embankment, there are fewer mangroves and less marginal vegetation. In contrast, the approach to Archibald Park is characterised by significant marginal coastal vegetation, including some mature pohutukawa. These trees are considered of high ecological value and contribute to the river’s natural character.

There are a number of existing concrete paths within the parks which will be utilised as part of the route. There is also an existing 2 m wide bridge between Ken Maunder Park and Queen Mary Avenue and large pylons nearby, following a similar route downriver. Small modifications extending into the river include private jetties and boathouses.

Key elements of the proposal include (refer to Sheets 14-18):

· A 2m wide replica bridge alongside existing bridge, to cross Taroa Stream. It will be approximately 110m in length (Chainage 5030-5140), and end with a short at-grade connecting path to Queen Mary Avenue (Chainage 5140-5180). · New boardwalk between Queen Mary Reserve and Archibald Park, approximately 640m long (Chainage 5570-6210). The boardwalk crosses the channel of a small tributary and has a wide consenting envelope to allow for the potential to locate the path further offshore. For example, it is proposed to skirt the edge of the mangroves off Koromiko Street until passing over the Jetty at Chainage 5810 (see Sheet 17/36). From this point the boardwalk will tuck into the river margins as it curves around to Archibald Park. · At Archibald Park, the consenting envelope widens, incorporating the pohutukawa in the margins and extending into the parkland. This allows for flexibility in choosing the location at which the boardwalk will connect to land and its alignment to connect with the existing shared path through Archibald Park (Chainage 6210-6270). · New steps or boardwalk that will enable connection with Koromiko Street. · New steps to connect with Lynwood Road

Archibald Park to Laurieston Park:

Refer to Site Photographs V9-12, Appendix Two

This section is characterised by the large area of sports fields and open grass that comprises Archibald Park as well as a number of other informal reserves and esplanades, the large industrial area at Span Farm, and the major tributary of Wairau Creek.

The mouth of Wairau Creek spans some 250m, its channel extending more than 1km inland. Te Whau River widens to more than 600m in this section and with the exception of Hepburn Esplanade Reserve, embankments are typically short and steep.

Vegetation is dominated by exotic forest on the margins and mangrove shrubland on the intertidal flats however there are strips of terrestrial vegetation along this coastal margin that are identified as

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Significant Ecological Areas in the Unitary Plan. These include locations at Laurieston Park, Span Farm Esplanade, Akatea Park, Harmel Reserve and Cobham Reserve where some areas fall within the consenting envelope.

Modifications in the river include the pylons and transmission lines and the Watercare pipe that cross Wairau Creek and the slipway, also on Wairau Creek.

Key elements of the proposal include (refer to Sheets 19 – 28):

· New concrete path (Chainage 6930-6950) linking the existing path network in Archibald Park to a short section of new boardwalk (Chainage 6950-6990). This in turn connects with another new at- grade path to Cobham Reserve (Chainage 6990-7190, and Chainage 0-120). · A connecting path through Cobham Reserve to Cobham Crescent. · A new fence between houses off Cobham Crescent and the proposed path near Chainage 70-120. A wider consenting envelope here allows some alignment flexibility including shifting the path further from these houses. · New boardwalk to wind through the mangroves along the true right of the Wairoa creek tributary before crossing the channel to the true left and connecting with the Akatea Park area (Chainage 120-760). A wide consenting envelope will enable straighter alignment options. · A further boardwalk section to extend up the true left of the creek to Harmell Esplanade (Chainage 0-360). · At the main Te Whau River channel, a section of boardwalk approximately 980m long crosses Wairoa Creek and skirts around the margins of Span Farm, connecting Cobham Reserve with Hepburn Esplanade Reserve (Chainage 7190-8170). · New concrete path to skirt the land between Hepburn Esplanade Reserve and Laurieston Park (Chainage 8170-8310 and Chainage 8360-8730). A short (50m) section of new boardwalk to separate the concrete paths, spanning a wet area. · A new concrete connecting path to Glen Marine Parade.

Laurieston Park to NW Cycleway/SH16

This section is dominated by residential land use, the main exceptions being the small reserves of Laurieston Park, McLeod Park, Roberts Field and Covil Park, and the Te Atatu Boat Club located at the end of Bridge Avenue.

The topography is characterised by steep embankments and multiple inlets and headlands. The width of the river broadens up to 1000m as it approaches the Northwestern Motorway. The river banks are largely covered in mixed shrub and treeland.

Dwellings along the river edge in this section are typically elevated 5m-10m above sea level. Existing modifications in the river largely occur towards the end of the route and include the motorway, pylons and transmission lines, and jetties and moorings associated with the Boat Club and AUP Mooring zone and Rowing and paddling precinct.

Key elements of the proposal include (refer to Sheets 28 to 36):

· New boardwalk, approximately 730m in length, spanning the mouth of Glendene Stream, connecting Laurieston Park to McLeod Park (Chainage 8730-9460). This proposal currently incorporates an additional connecting section of boardwalk linking to Meadow Crescent as well as a new boardwalk connection to Riverglade Esplanade. However, the consenting

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envelope is wider here, enabling options for a more direct alignment that would bisect Riverglade Esplanade. · At McLeod Park, short sections of concrete path connect the boardwalk with existing shared paths (Chainage 9460-9480). · New boardwalk to span an inlet to connect McLeod Park to Roberts Field (Chainage 9650- 10080). · New boardwalk extending approximately 800m between Roberts Field and the gully behind Te Atatu Boat Club (Chainage 10260-11070). · A stairway and boardwalk to connect to Covil Park. · New concrete paths through Bridge Avenue Reserve, and down Bridge Avenue past the Boat Club (Chainage 11070-11200 and 11260-11390). · A minor realignment of the existing Bridge Avenue carparking area. · New boardwalk extending some 190m to meet the SH16 cycleway connection (Chainage 11390- 11580).

4.0 PLANNING CONTEXT

The provisions most relevant to natural character, landscape and visual matters are set out below.

4.1 RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACT (RMA) Key section 6 considerations relevant to this assessment are: a) The preservation of the natural character of the coastal environment (including the coastal marine area), wetlands, and lakes and rivers and their margins, and the protection of them from inappropriate subdivision, use, and development

In section 7, there is also a requirement to have regard to: c) The maintenance and enhancement of amenity values

4.2 NEW ZEALAND COASTAL POLICY STATEMENT (NZCPS) 2010 The works will occur within an area identified as a coastal environment. Therefore, the NZCPS has a number of objectives and policies relevant to the project. Key policies are:

· Policy13 (preservation of natural character); · Policy 14 (restoration of natural character); · Policy 15 (protection of natural features and natural landscapes of the coastal environment) · Policy 18 (recognising the need for public open space within and adjacent to the coastal marine area) · Policy 19 (recognising public expectations of and need for walking access along the coast)

4.3 AUCKLAND UNITARY PLAN: The Whau River/Estuary is identified in the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP) as a General Coastal Marine Zone and Significant Ecological Area (Marine 2). Areas categorised as Marine 2 are generally considered more robust. The key values of this SEA (reference SEA-M2-54) as noted in Schedule 4 of the AUP are primarily associated with the saline vegetation, mangrove ecosystems and bird habitats.

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Areas of terrestrial vegetation along the coastal margin at Laurieston Park, Span Farm Esplanade, Akatea Park, Hamel Reserve and Cobham Reserve have also been identified as Significant Ecological Areas (SEA_T_4907, SEA_T_4645, and SEA_T_4913).

Much of the land lining Te Whau River is zoned as Residential (Mixed Housing Suburban, Mixed Housing Urban and Terrace Housing and Apartment Building) with significant areas also zoned Business – Light and Heavy Industry in the AUP.

Objectives and policies for the General Coastal Marine Zone relevant to this assessment include avoiding, remedying or mitigating adverse effects on natural character from disturbance of the foreshore and seabed (F2.5.2), and restoring and maintaining natural character and amenity values associated with mangrove management (F2.7.2).

A key area to be addressed relates to the effects of structures and in particular:

F2.16.2 Objectives

(1) Structures are generally limited to those that have a functional need to be located in the coastal marine area, or those that have an operational need and that cannot be practicably located outside of the coastal marine area.

(2) Structures provide for public access and multiple uses where practicable, other than those restricted by location or functional requirements.

(3) Structures are appropriately located and designed to minimise adverse effects on the ecological, natural character, landscape, natural features, historic heritage and Mana Whenua values of the coastal marine area, and avoid to the extent practicable the risk of being adversely affected by coastal hazards.

(4) Structures are provided in appropriate locations to enable Māori cultural activities and customary use.

Under the objectives are a number of specific relevant policies including:

(6) Require structures to be located to avoid significant adverse effects and avoid, remedy or mitigate other adverse effects on the values of areas identified as:

(a) D17 Historic Heritage Overlay;

(b) D21 Sites and Places of Significance to Mana Whenua Overlay;

(c) D11 Outstanding Natural Character and High Natural Character overlays;

(d) D10 Outstanding Natural Features Overlay; and Outstanding Natural Landscapes Overlay; and

(e) significant surf breaks identified in Appendix 4

(7) Require structures in the Coastal – General Coastal Marine Zone to be located to minimise:

(c) adverse effects on public access to and along the coastal marine area;

(d) visual impacts, particularly in areas sensitive to effects such as headlands or the outer edges of enclosed bays, as seen from both land and water;

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(e) the size of the structure, including its size in relation to wharves and jetties and consider providing for partial rather than all-tide access, unless this is not a practicable option given the function and frequency of use;

(8) Require structures to be designed to:

(a) be the minimum size reasonably necessary to provide for the proposed use;

(b) be multi-purpose where practicable and where it will not conflict

(c) minimise impacts on natural character and amenity values and generally fit with the character of any existing built elements, including in the use of materials and colours having regard to safety requirements;

(9) Have regard to the value of retaining the natural character of areas where structures are absent, taking into account the area’s uniqueness and value because of the absence of structures.

(11) Require buildings in the coastal marine area to be of a scale, location and design that is appropriate to its context.

(12) Enable structures in appropriate locations where the structure is to provide, or enhance:

(a) public access, use or amenity values, including artworks in the coastal marine area; and

(20) Require applications for structures in the coastal marine area to demonstrate how any significant adverse effects on the use of adjoining land, including reverse sensitivity effects on existing use or development of that land, can be avoided, remedied or mitigated.

The boardwalks connect to Public Open Space Conservation Zone where policies of most relevance to this assessment are concerned with:

· enabling appropriate activities that conserve, protect and enhance the natural, ecological, landscape, and heritage values of the public open space, and · requiring the location, scale, and design of structures to complement the context, character and values and ensuring that there is minimal disturbance to existing landform and vegetation.

The proposal is not contrary to and will generally meet the relevant statutory provisions in relation to natural character, landscape and amenity values, particularly those related to providing or enhancing public access. It will however reduce visual amenity for a small number of residents. These matters are dealt with in the following section.

5 LANDSCAPE AND VISUAL EFFECTS

Landscape effects (including natural character when located within the coastal or river environment such as Te Whau) and visual impacts result from change in the elements, character or quality of a landscape. However, change in a landscape does not in and of itself, constitute an adverse landscape or visual effect.

Impacts are usually the result of landform or vegetation modification or the introduction of new structures, activities or facilities into the landscape. The construction process and/or activities associated with the development (such as the use of the boardwalk for cycling and walking), can also generate landscape and visual impacts.

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The degree to which landscape and visual effects are generated by a development depends on a number of factors. These include:

· The degree to which the proposal contrasts, or is consistent, with the character, qualities and sensitivities of the surrounding landscape. · The proportion of the proposal that is visible, determined by the observer’s position relative to the objects viewed. · The distance and foreground context within which the proposal is viewed. · The number of viewers, their location and situation (static or moving) in relation to the view. · The quality of the existing landscape, its aesthetic values and contribution to the wider landscape character.

The concrete, at-grade paths which comprise some 2.7km of the total route, are principally on grassland in open space zones and will result in a very low level of landscape change. The following assessment of effects on landscape and visual amenity focuses on the boardwalk structure and crossings.

It is also important to note that for some, the introduction of the shared pathway along Te Whau will have considerable positive effects related to landscape and visual amenity values such as increasing accessibility to the river, creating more opportunities for people to be informed about and appreciate the aesthetic and biophysical values of the tidal river, encourage people to stay on the boardwalk without damaging adjacent coastal vegetation; and increasing diversity of plant species through proposed mitigation planting.

5.1 CONSTRUCTION EFFECTS

There is potential for high adverse landscape and visual amenity effects to be generated during the construction process due particularly to the presence of construction machinery in areas where it is not a common part of the visual backdrop, and effects of sedimentation.

To ensure adverse effects are minimised, standard sediment control procedures will be followed for all earthworks related procedures (in accordance with an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan to be developed for the pathway).

The construction footprint and associated potential vegetation removal and disruption to access will be minimised by working on top of or alongside the alignment as far as possible.

The surrounding coastal edge vegetation will assist in partially screening views to the construction works from public spaces and residential dwellings.

On balance, due to the temporary nature of the effects, limited to the construction period, effects on natural character, landscape and visual amenity are considered to be low-moderate.

5.2 LANDSCAPE AND NATURAL CHARACTER EFFECTS Landscape effects relate to changes in the physical nature of a site or locality and can occur whether or not they are seen. Natural character effects (RMA Section 6(a)) relate to the elements, patterns and processes within the coastal and riparian parts of the landscape.

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The landscape and natural character of the parks and river setting, or the wider landscape will not be significantly adversely affected by the shared pathway.

The location is not in an area identified as having outstanding landscape values and while the river is an important feature with its own unique character, it is not pristine. The wider landscape includes a mix of different residential and business/light industrial land uses as well as infrastructure including power lines, pipe bridges, road corridors, all with a low sensitivity to landscape change. Overall, the riverscape has a moderate sensitivity to change, though the sensitivity and qualities of different elements within it vary.

Existing modifications to natural character include the modified riparian vegetation and degraded estuarine values due to stormwater runoff from roads and buildings. Other modifications include physical structures such as the existing pathways, the residential and industrial/commercial development close to the margins on both sides of the river, as well as nearby roading infrastructure and overhead powerlines. For those living close by or visiting the public parks on the river margins, the formative processes of the river may be evident. However, these modifications mask the natural processes from much of the catchment.

The alignment of the consenting envelope is in public open space on the river margins and in the Whau River itself, contained within the intertidal flats and riparian margins, away from the main channels. The at-grade concrete paths proposed will have negligible impacts on landscape and natural character as they are generally located in grassed open space with minimal vegetation removal and disturbance required. The boardwalk however, will introduce further modification into the riverscape and influence its character; it will not be the only built element within the estuary but in many places it will be a major new built element.

The requirement for a structure that needs to be elevated above the surface of the water increases its prominence. However, as a recreational facility, the boardwalk shares characteristics with the path network already present in many of the parks that line the river and will facilitate better connections between them.

As a boardwalk, the structure has inherent coastal, river and estuarine associations and will not be incongruous in a coastal or riparian reserve environment such as Te Whau. The sweeping curves of the boardwalk have been designed to integrate into and reinforce the legibility of the serpentine riverscape, the design initially drawn from the many rivulets that cover the mangrove mudflats at low tide, as well as the river’s meandering alignment.

The existing landscape character and values will remain and public open space and recreational opportunities enhanced through the provision of improved access. With large spacings between slim piles, the boardwalk will be capable of sitting lightly over the mudflats and water surface. The works will typically be visually absorbed into the fabric of the existing vegetation and/or the built development beyond.

The main construction materials will be timber, concrete, and/or fibre reinforced plastic (FRP). Timber and concrete will weather to a naturally recessive appearance. If FRP is used, it will be coloured to ensure an appropriately recessive colour and minimise effects of the scale of the structure on the riverscape.

Effects on landscape and natural character attributes will be concentrated on the vegetation and mudflats directly beneath the alignment of the boardwalk. These are primarily due to the loss in

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habitat from the removal of the indigenous vegetation on the embankments and the removal of mangroves and disturbance to the sediment on the intertidal flats where the piles will be installed.

The proposed option to progressively build the boardwalk structure from either over the top, or side-by-side will minimise physical disturbance and the amount of vegetation clearance required, limiting natural character effects.

While the structural design is indicative, there is likely to be some disturbance to embankment landforms at the points where the boardwalk structure meets the land. It is anticipated these will be localised to small areas of cut where abutments are required. Disturbed areas will be revegetated with appropriate plant species in accordance with the recommendations set out in the Ecological Assessment.

Planting of additional indigenous species in publicly owned parks will benefit degraded landscape characteristics associated with weedy riparian edges while also extending the existing wildlife habitats and benefiting natural character and amenity values over the long term. Indicative planting locations are shown in the Landscape Plans (appended to the Assessment of Environmental Effects).

Landscape and natural character values of the Te Whau River in its entirety are not high or outstanding3 however it is an important feature and there are key landscape elements that have higher values such as the tidal flow, the river channels and mudflats, parkland, and areas of indigenous vegetation. The natural character of the active river channel is considered to be moderate in contrast to the low natural character of the riparian margins which are more affected by human intervention and pinched between a heavily modified wider setting, long shaped by development. Although the pathway will introduce a manmade element to the coastal environment, effects are largely limited to these modified margins and therefore effects on natural character of the river overall are considered low. In addition, the Coastal Processes Assessment (see AEE) concludes that the structure will not have significant effects on natural coastal processes. Although the effects on natural character are not considered to be significant, detailed design offers the opportunity to further mitigate any natural character effects through the design and selection of materials that will maximise capacity to visually integrate the pathway and an alignment that follows the natural curvature of the river.

Summary of Landscape and Natural Character Effects

Provided that replacement planting recommended in the Arboriculture Report and mitigation planting on publicly owned land as set out in the Ecological Assessment is undertaken (and shown visually on the Landscape Plans), adverse effects on landscape and natural character are assessed as low to moderate.

The boardwalk is an appropriate structure in this setting. It can be accommodated in the intertidal margins and integrate with the existing landscape/seascape without dominating its character or compromising its values.

5.3 VISUAL EFFECTS Visual effects relate to the degree of change that may occur to the view and amenity as a result of changes to the landscape and landscape character.

3 There are no overlays in the planning maps that identify the location of the proposed pathway as outstanding or high natural character or having outstanding natural features or outstanding natural landscapes.

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In this instance, visual impacts may occur due to the introduction of a fixed, linear structure that contrasts with the dynamic and changing environment and introduces built modification in the river flats where it is currently limited. Construction materials and design and the reduction in the height of the boardwalk will minimise visual impacts and physical disturbance to the landscape.

The significance of visual effects will be influenced by the extent to which the setting can absorb the pathway structures, the proximity of viewers, their relative elevation and the position of the pathway in their view – central or peripheral. The significance of effects also depends on the nature of the viewing audience; sensitivity to changes in views will typically be greater for resident populations compared with those that are transient such as road users or users of the pathway.

The nature of the landscape means that from land the shared pathway will not be viewed or experienced all at once but seen in distinctly separate sections. River users and those using the pathway will be exposed to views of it sequentially so that the length of the boardwalk is revealed as they move along it or alongside it.

Other viewpoints include residential properties, industrial properties, recreation areas and public roads. As the river widens north of the Rata Street bridge, distances from vantage points on the true right bank (from the Rosebank Peninsula) quickly increase so that where visible, the boardwalk would be a minor component of the view and blend into the vegetation and developed fabric of the landscape beyond it. For this reason, the visual assessment focuses on views from the true left, or west side of the bank, closest to the shared path alignment.

Key viewing audiences are:

· Park and river users – in many instances the boardwalks will be extending existing path network and creating opportunities for connections to the river and between parks. Many visitors to the parks and reserves along the river are most likely to be appreciative of the opportunity to utilise the new facility and may view the structures in a positive light. · Road users – The largest potential viewing audience are motorists crossing Te Whau river mouth, travelling on SH16, primarily those travelling west who are on the inland side of the motorway. Other similar viewing opportunities are on Rata Street and from Great North Road. Most other roads with potential views to the pathway are suburban no-through roads or cul-de-sacs. Views from roads tend to be fleeting. While SH 16 bridge offers potentially the widest vantage point of the pathway, with the largest audience, motorists are likely to be travelling at speed and will only be able to view a relatively small section of the overall walkway. · Residents – those living in homes that overlook the river in the location of the boardwalk will be the most affected. The catchment is primarily restricted to those properties immediately adjacent to the estuary or with multiple stories. Views to the pathway from these properties will vary and will commonly be restricted or broken up by the steepness of the coastal embankment or the presence of marginal coastal vegetation.

Elements that can contribute to aesthetic value of the boardwalk include its sculptural form and strong presence. The findings from the request for public feedback show that the primary reason respondents liked the pathway route and design were the simplicity of the design and its fit with the environment.

However, some submitters considered the Pathway unsympathetic with the Whau Environment and to these individuals, the extent and nature of change may be unacceptable.

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Due to the linear nature of the shared pathway, visual effects are analysed within each of the following sections:

Olympic Park to Ken Maunder Park:

The river margins are flanked by residential dwellings on the northeast bank and industrial and commercial activities to the southwest.

Views from commercial and industrial premises are limited as these properties are largely street facing rather than river facing. They are also considered likely to have a lower level of sensitivity to change in the river corridor compared to permanent residents for example. Similarly, views in which industrial buildings form a backdrop typically have a low level of sensitivity to change.

There are a number of dwellings above the river on Alanbrooke Crescent, Stedman Place, Great North Road and Wingate Street that have the potential to be in close proximity to the alignment, within 20m-30m. The steep embankments and tall coastal edge vegetation will restrict most close views. For example, 35 Alanbrooke Crescent will be approximately 20m from the boardwalk but is situated several metres above the river with considerable intervening vegetation. Where properties have less vegetation and elevation such as 21 Alanbrooke Crescent, views incorporate pylons and the back of the industrial buildings over the river so that the boardwalk will be seen with a highly modified backdrop.

Views to this section of the shared pathway from roads are essentially limited to Great North Road and Rata Street and will typically be experienced fleetingly or amidst traffic and other modifications such as pylons. Road users are unlikely to find the proposed changes obvious, or even noticeable.

Beyond Great North Road, the consenting envelope widens to include a land based at-grade path option at the approach to Wingate Street. The path would run alongside the property boundary of the Wingate Club for 100m and is likely to be within approximately 5m of the building. This location has not been visited however this appears to be an existing section of path and a fence and vegetation that would restrict views to the path and users. Despite the proximity to the dwelling, effects on visual amenity from this property are assessed as low.

The boardwalk option through this area would be a larger structure but further from the property and substantially screened from its view. It would be clearly visible from the back of the industrial properties on Drury Street but with the low sensitivity to change from these areas, visual amenity effects of the boardwalk option are also assessed as low. It will however have a higher impact on natural character values due to the greater level of modification and higher sensitivity to change of the river environment.

From Wingate Street, the alignment runs through the narrow strip of Rizal Reserve, bordered by private properties on one side and the river on the other, before linking to Rata Street (via a 170m boardwalk). It includes a short 40m section of boardwalk spanning an inlet near Corregidor Place. The at-grade path through Rizal Reserve was recently granted resource consent (Auckland Council reference LUC60307205) and is not subject to this assessment (however the two sections of boardwalk are included).

In regard to the proposed boardwalks, the tall coastal edge vegetation will screen most close views of both boardwalk structures from residential dwellings including the residence at the end of Corregidor Place that borders Rizal Reserve (10 Corregidor Place). This unfenced property has open views from west to east across the grassed open space encompassing the points where the sections of boardwalk will connect with land (Photographs V2 - 4). However, views to the bulk of both

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structures will be screened by the coastal vegetation. It is also understood that as part of the aforementioned resource consent granted (Auckland Council reference LUC60307205), this property will be fenced (see Approved Plan 80509320-C2-0204_G024, Rev A). As such the effects on visual amenity of this property are assessed as very low.

There may be views from a few two-storey dwellings on Wingate and Corregidor Place to the short section of boardwalk that will span the inlet. Where it is visible, the simple, linear form of the boardwalk will appear well integrated into the setting amongst dense mangroves with a backdrop of the industrial/commercial buildings off Delta Ave. Potential visual effects for residents at these dwellings are assessed as very low to low.

Another section of boardwalk is proposed to connect Rizal Reserve to Rata Street. Views from dwellings off Rata Street will be orientated south and southeast and partially screened or broken up by vegetation at distances of approximately 20m-25m away. The boardwalk will be potentially visible to some future dwellings in a new, northwest orientated subdivision immediately north of Rizal Reserve. However, due to its alignment in this location much of the boardwalk will be seen either against a vegetated backdrop, merging into the southerly shadows or with the Rata Street bridge in the background and visual effects are considered likely to be low.

Ken Maunder to Archibald Park:

Through the parks, the pathway will generate no additional visual effects on the existing road and pathway network beyond increased use by pedestrians and cyclists.

There will be views to the proposed special crossing from Ken Maunder Park to Queen Mary Avenue with the nearest dwellings approximately 30m away. Where views through the coastal vegetation allow, they will incorporate the existing Ken Maunder Bridge. Consequently, the design of the crossing to replicate and abut the existing bridge will significantly reduce potential visual effects.

Dwellings off Queen Mary Avenue and Kelston Street that front the river will have potential northerly views to the boardwalk where it spans the mouth of their deep horse-shoe shaped inlet. Views from some properties will be screened by vegetation while others may have clear views though these will be distant – typically more than 70m. The mangroves in the foreground will help to visually anchor the height of the boardwalk. Visual effects from this area are assessed as low.

The houses that front the river off Koromiko Street and Lynwood Road will overlook the boardwalk. In particular, the units at 40 Koromiko Street, are all oriented north towards the boardwalk, and are two- storey with living areas (e.g. lounges and outdoor decks) that are approximately 3m above the boardwalk (deck). They currently have unobstructed views across the river.

In views from the units at 40 Koromiko Street, the main focus for attention is the restful ‘void’ of the river channel in the midground; the mangroves in the foreground and the far bank with buildings, trees and pylons framing the channel. The neighbouring units are also in the periphery of views. The boardwalk will be highly visible in distant (not immediate) foreground to midground views from upper levels of these properties.

This section of the corridor is not entirely unmodified however in a perceptual sense, the river corridor to the landward edge of the mangroves, is highly natural. While several buildings and structures are located in or close to the CMA in this location (including transmission pylons and the jetty at 125 Lynwood Road), wider views of the local landscape from the units at 40 Koromiko Street are that of a quasi-natural river corridor.

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The original alignment that was proposed, passed approximately 20-25m to the north of these units, the combination of proximity, elevation of the boardwalk, removal of mangrove vegetation, night- time illumination and the use of the boardwalk, creating the potential to generate high adverse visual amenity effects.

Following consultation, it is proposed to increase the separation by pushing the alignment further to the north to the edge of the existing mangroves approximately 30m away (from the property boundary of the units). This will slightly increase the mitigating effect of distance in terms of views and assist in reducing effects on privacy.

In addition, the height of the boardwalk has been lowered to reduce its prominence from 3.46m AVD to 2.89m AVD. The lowered boardwalk and users will be partially obscured by the existing mangroves when viewed from ground floor areas and lower parts of the properties at 40 Koromiko Street. The boardwalk will be an apparent feature when viewed from upper floors but it will not punctuate the horizon and its appearance will be softened by the surrounding mangroves. The lightness of the construction design enables views ‘through’ the boardwalk, between piles and also between handrails, reducing the contrast between the structure and its surroundings.

At night, the lighting along the boardwalk will be visible from these elevated views. The lights will be set into the handrails and cast downwards which will reduce their prominence however due to the elevation and relatively close proximity of the properties along this section, the lights will introduce a new visible element in an otherwise darkened riverscape.

Further recommendations are to continue to consult with the property owners regarding planting or screening opportunities and options for monitoring and potentially reducing levels of illumination, in this section, using the detailed design phase to address individual needs and concerns, if practicable. While planting options to screen views are constrained due to the elevation of the properties and limited land, there are opportunities for well-placed foreground planting and/or climbing varieties to partially break up views to the boardwalk on private land if agreed to. Over time, effects on visual amenity of these residents can be reduced to moderate.

There will be no appreciable views to the boardwalk from roads and views from Archibald Park will largely be screened by the pohutukawa trees along the river edge regardless of the final alignment chosen.

Archibald Park to Laurieston Park:

Cobham Reserve is a small triangular park on the tip of a minor headland. At the approach to the park from either end, a narrow, steep, vegetated embankment separates properties from the river. The at-grade concrete path would run alongside their property boundaries around the perimeter of the park, with a connector path through the reserve to Cobham Crescent. The alignment is likely to be within 10m of some adjacent dwellings. Other dwellings overlooking Cobham Reserve are more distant but two storeys, with clear views north over the little park.

The paths will appear as an extension to the existing network in neighbouring Archibald Park. Visual effects due to the path itself are expected to be negligible to low, however the use of the path and magnitude of the change in the northerly views of these properties could generate low to moderately adverse amenity effects for some of these properties.

A new section of boardwalk will begin at the north end of the park adjacent to 58 Cobham Crescent. A fence is proposed around the north and northwest boundaries of the property as part of the

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project which will change their existing outlook but screen potential views to both the concrete path and the connecting boardwalk reducing potential adverse visual effects to low to moderate.

The Harmel and Akatea Park connecting boardwalk is generally well separated from the dwellings that line the creek, approximately 50m-70m away. However, there are a small number of closer dwellings at approximately 35m and the length of boardwalk together with connecting boardwalk forms an intensity of structures within the tributary.

There is a high level of coastal vegetation along the river embankments here that will screen or break up some views towards the boardwalk which will also be backdropped by the amalgam of vegetation and buildings on the opposite bank. Modifications such as the Watercare pipeline and Span Farm slipway also already reduce amenity for some.

Views from the industrial area around Span Farm are considered to have a low level of sensitivity to change in the river corridor and margins and visual effects on these areas. Visual effects would be negligible to low.

Between Span Farm and Laurieston Park is a proposed development off Hepburn Road which may provide close views towards the alignment. This section is largely on land and will primarily be an at- grade concrete path. Visual effects of the path will be negligible to low.

Dwellings fronting onto Laurieston Park will also potentially overlook a new concrete path traversing the park. For most, the combination of distance and vegetation indicate the level of effect on amenity will be very low. However, there are two dwellings at 259 Hepburn Road that could be as close as approximately 5m from the at-grade pathway, resulting in a moderate to high impact on visual amenity. Both dwellings will be retained including the heritage cottage. Visual effects from this location could be reduced through a combination of fencing and amenity planting to be finalised during detailed design and discussion with the property owners.

Laurieston Park to NW Cycleway/SH16:

The main boardwalk alignment spanning the inlets between Laurieston Park and McLeod Park, is pushed well off shore with separation distances of approximately 100m and more to riverside dwellings. However, there are also two connecting boardwalks to Meadow Crescent and Riverglade Parkway. These are closer but still maintain typical distances of 40m-60m to most nearby dwellings. A residential property at 14 Meadow Crescent is located adjacent to the at-grade, concrete path on land but this will be screened by their boundary fence while existing vegetation will assist in screening more distant views to the connecting boardwalk.

Nevertheless, this intersection of boardwalks bounding the Meadow Crescent headland in particular, means a substantial length of the boardwalks will be potentially visible. The distance will reduce their apparent scale so they are not prominent. They will be well able to be visually integrated into wider views including the mangroves in the foreground and for some properties, the backdrop of the river banks beyond. 20 Meadow Crescent has a particularly open aspect and is orientated more to the open river channel so that visual effects may be higher here. Consultation with the property owners regarding planting opportunities could ensure appropriate screening mitigates concerns.

At Riverglade Parkway, the coastal vegetation around this headland is extensive and will help to screen or break up views to the boardwalk. Visual effects on dwellings at Riverglade Parkway are assessed as low.

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At Roberts Field, the steep embankment and riparian vegetation will break up potential views from dwellings at the end of Roberts Road to the boardwalk that connects Roberts Field with Covil Park. Adverse visual effects from these areas will be low.

There is a good separation distance between the boardwalk and the dwellings that front the river off Tiriroa Ave, at approximately 60-70m. The properties are also fringed with a good level of vegetation to help screen views.

As the boardwalk approaches the Te Atatu Boat Club, it extends up a gully below Covil Avenue. Dwellings off this road will be approximately 20m away from the boardwalk but several metres above on a steep, vegetated embankment. The trees and shrubs will screen and integrate the appearance of the boardwalk where it is visible. Views from these houses, and those on nearby Alwyn Avenue are modified by the existing boat club development and the motorway. Visual effects on these properties is considered to be very low.

Lighting

For the new at grade shared path, the lighting uses luminaires mounted on 6m high poles. The lighting standard used (P3 lighting of AS/NZS 1158.3.1 Lighting for roads and public spaces) will be sufficient to illuminate the path for users however obtrusive spill lighting and glare is expected to be minimal due to the mounting height and low powered luminaire, buffer distances, and visual screening from existing planting.

The boardwalks will be lit at night for safety through luminaires embedded into the handrails and designed so that the light is directed onto the boardwalk. At the mounting height of 1.4m, spill lighting, glare, and obtrusive lighting originating from the handrail embedded luminaire at a mounting height of 1.4m is expected to be minimal.

However, at 40 Koromiko Street where residences are elevated so that they will have close, and largely unobstructed views to the boardwalk , it is recommended to consider sensor lighting or assigning dimming profiles (lowered light output at different times of the night) to further minimise environmental effects.

Summary of Visual Effects

Visual effects due to the boardwalk are generally considered to be low. However, some areas of boardwalk have been identified as having higher visual impacts depending on the final alignment options and detailed design. They may benefit from further investigation to ascertain if planting and screening opportunities may be needed or appropriate. These are:

· Dwellings adjacent to the alignment at Cobham Reserve, primarily 58 Cobham Crescent. · 259 Hepburn Road near Laurieston Park. · Dwellings overlooking the boardwalk near Meadow Crescent, primarily 20 Meadow Crescent. · Riverside residents at the end of Koromiko Street primarily Flats 1-3, 40 Koromiko Street.

Current views from these locations will not be entirely lost, however the new boardwalk structure is likely to result in at least partial loss of, or modification to key characteristics in these views. As private views they are not identified as being viewshafts of importance to a wide/public viewing audience but are certain to be highly valued by the residents who will also be most sensitive to any changes.

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There is a functional rationale and design intent for the boardwalk’s configuration and height outlined in the design framework that brings aesthetic coherence to the proposal and goes some way to offsetting these localised impacts. The shared pathway, and the boardwalk structure in particular, consciously sets out to make a statement but part of that statement is a considered response to its estuarine setting.

6 RECOMMENDED MITIGATION MEASURES

Te Whau is appreciated for its natural resource and the experience of this for residents and for the wider community.

Modification to the river environment requires careful integration and management of design to balance the potential adverse effects.

Recommendations include:

· The planting of additional indigenous species in publicly owned parks, in accordance with the recommendations set out in the Ecological Assessment to mitigate and enhance natural character, aesthetic and amenity values. · Vegetate disturbed areas on land with appropriate plant species in accordance with the recommendations set out in the Ecological Assessment. · Where the wide consented envelope allows flexibility to straighten the alignment, ensure a recognisable level of sinuosity is maintained. · Consideration of the final appearance and colour of the boardwalk structures including using the minimum pile diameter and lowest deck and handrail heights and railing spans necessary in order to maximise the ‘transparency’ of the structure and its capacity to visually integrate with the surroundings. · Use of muted, recessive colours such as tones of greys or browns with a low reflectivity value (LVR) are recommended, or where practicable for timber construction, keep structures unpainted and allow to weather. · Ensure lighting installed as part of the structures is directed downwards and away from nearby residential dwellings to minimise effects on visual amenity. · Inclusion of opportunities for interpretation to increase education and engagement around the range of cultural, historical and ecological landscape values associated with Te Whau River and catchment. · In particular, explore opportunities for expression of mana whenua presence during detailed design. · Provide localised screening vegetation or other forms of screening to reduce visual impacts on private residences, in discussion with residents at: o Dwellings near Cobham Reserve. o 259 Hepburn Street. o Dwellings near Meadow Crescent. o Riverside residents at the end of Koromiko Street · To reduce the impact of the path and the connector paths on these properties, options for low growing hedges, trees or climbing plants in combination with boundary fences and mounding be provided subject to consultation. · While ongoing consultation with riverside residents at the end of Koromiko Street has resulted in changes to the boardwalk alignment that will reduce its prominence, a further recommendation is to continue to consult with the property owners regarding the

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appearance of the boardwalk in views and effects on privacy and to use the detailed design phase to further address concerns, including exploring options for reducing lighting, such as sensor lighting or dimming controls and other matters as described above.

7. CONCLUSIONS

Te Whau River is a key landscape feature and is identified as a Significant Ecological Area in the Unitary Plan. However, neither the estuary nor its margins are considered to be an area of Outstanding or High Natural Character. Neither has it been identified as an Outstanding Natural Feature or Landscape.

While the immediate river environment is structured by a layering of natural elements, including the tidal flats and its etched channels, the margins and wider landscape are also overlain by an extensive matrix of man-made structures and activities. The shared pathway follows a route that connects these natural and cultural patterns.

Overall the boardwalk can be accommodated in the intertidal margins of this landscape without dominating its character or compromising these values for the following reasons:

· While natural elements are present, the upper reaches of the Whau River flow within a highly modified wider environment. · Within the alignment, there will be minor modifications to landform and minor vegetation removal including areas of grassland, exotic trees and some areas of indigenous scrubland and mangrove habitat. · By progressively building the structure, the scale of the intervention can be limited to the alignment. · Although the presence of the boardwalk in the Whau River will add additional modification, the local natural character of the estuary will not change but will continue to be dominated by its tidal ebb and flow, the mudflats, and mangroves. · Due to the topography, road layout and intervening built development and vegetation, close views to the boardwalk structures will largely be restricted to recreation users and a limited number of residents. · The pathway will enhance the amenity of the area through improved connectivity to and along the river. · The planting recommended as part of the project will enhance visual amenity and indigenous habitat values of the wider area over the long term.

The boardwalk introduces a new physical development into the CMA. At the same time it promotes a strong focus on, and sense of connection with the river and its margins. At the broad scale, the boardwalk structure will enhance views and the overall sense of engagement with the river and estuary for most. At the local scale, it will alter views for some nearby residents who currently enjoy relatively open, quasi- natural views over the river, flats and mangroves.

The landscape setting accommodates a diversity of existing buildings, structures and land uses from industrial yards and pylons to residential neighbourhoods, boat club facilities and parks with walkways. The boardwalk and shared pathway is suggestive of a coastal/riverscape association and would integrate relatively seamlessly with this matrix of development.

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On balance and considering the project at the broad scale, the pathway is an appropriate use for the location in that it is enhancing and extending public access to the river and the existing network of parks and paths along the Whau River.

Sue McManaway

BA, BLA, Registered Member NZILA

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APPENDIX ONE

Definition of Effects Ratings

Negligible: No part of the development is discernible or where the viewing audience is not sensitive to change and the proposed scheme or elements of the scheme would be only very minor elements of the overall view that are likely to be missed by the casual observer. Little or no loss of or modification to key elements/ features/ characteristics of the existing landscape.

Low: Where the viewing audience are not sensitive to change or have a low level of sensitivity and the new development would be noticeable but constitutes a minor component of the landscape.

Or the viewing audience is sensitive to change but new elements are well integrated and/ or are not considered uncharacteristic.

Moderate: The development may result in partial loss of or modification to key elements / features / characteristics of the existing landscape and changes would be clearly recognisable by most observers.

Or, where the changed view is of high value and importance but the proposed development would be a minor component of the overall view.

Or where the proposed development would dominate the view, fundamentally changing its character and components but the viewing audience are not sensitive to change.

High: Where the changed view is of high value and importance and the development forms an immediately apparent part of the landscape. The landscape character remains evident but materially changed by the development with modifications of several key elements / features / characteristics of the existing landscape.

Extreme: Where the changed view is of very high value and importance and the development becomes the dominant feature of the scene. There is a total or severe loss of key elements / features / characteristics of the existing landscape setting.

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APPENDIX TWO

Site Photographs (A3 landscape)

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