app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 225 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW ) S A RE L A A ST ) ) ) A ) ) ) ) ) NT CO A ark/Sugar Loaf (Nga Motu) Islands area (site 9 area (site Islands ark/Sugar Motu) (Nga Loaf n s

Introductio SIGNIFIC of Selection Mohakatino River mouth (site 1 (site mouth Mohakatino River 2 (site mouth River Tongaporutu 3 Mimi (site mouth River 4 (site mouth River Urenui 5 (site Onaero mouth River 6) (site mouth River Waitara 7 (site Stream mouth Waiongana 8 (site mouth River Waiwhakaiho 10 Oakura (site mouth River Reference Centennial P

.1 .11 20 20.2 SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS SIGNIFICANT COASTAL APPENDIX 20 APPENDIX 20.9 20.3 20.4 20.5 20.6 20.7 20.8 20.10 20.12 20.13 20 app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 226 app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 227

LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW lan for Taranaki (1997), Taranaki lan for Areas within the Regional Coastal P and B A S are only one part of an integrated system and that the AREAS are only one part of an integrated Selection of SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS COASTAL SIGNIFICANT Selection of L AL Mohakatino River mouth. River mouth. Tongaporutu Mimi River mouth. Urenui River mouth. Onaero River mouth. River mouth. Waitara Stream mouth. Waiongana River mouth. Waiwhakaiho Sugar Loaf Islands (Nga Motu). Oakura River mouth. qualitative study has been undertaken to identify the values of these areas and the values of undertaken to identify study has been qualitative 20.2 Regional Council advocates for and promotes the retention and planting of the retention and for and promotes Council advocates Regional conditions on including a variety of mechanisms, through riparian vegetation District Council can New Plymouth agreements. consents and voluntary resource riparian management. also promote A management options are not These for their management. to identify options for the restoration have been identified as useful mechanisms rules – that is, they for landowners natural character but there is no requirement or enhancement of areas is on the provision The focus for these them. or land users to implement has shown that voluntary and incentives as experience of information, education or community willingly, by involving the landowner and incentive approaches, better results than a stewardship and therefore often achieve promote an ethic of that these areas are approach. It is also important to recognise purely regulatory and often have high recreational usage. homes, livelihoods the areas identified as SIGNIFICANT It is also important to recognise that COAST managed for the best results to be catchment as a whole must be properly achieved. on those areas identified as Coastal AREAS are based COASTAL SIGNIFICANT Management as follows: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 L AL Taranaki Taranaki mouths and their associated estuarine River mouths and their that are of value for natural character, ecological, natural character, that are of value for rea a marine Introduction al 20.1 One of the most successful ways to protect such waterways is through riparian One of the most successful ways to (fine silts work to protect riverbanks from erosion management. Riparian margins source of pollution) and, with the addition from eroding riverbanks are a common stock that can cause significant damage. of fencing on farmlands, can exclude marsh communities salt of marginal Riparian vegetation and the re-establishment and habitat enhancement for native freshwater can provide spawning areas, shelter and They also add to the aesthetic species. fish and native and migratory bird the landscape values, can provide important cultural materials, and assist in protection of cultural, spiritual or historical values. Good riparian management can therefore significantly improve the natural character of such areas. AREAS have been identified within New Plymouth District. These are areas These New Plymouth District. AREAS have been identified within an important component of the sustainable where the natural character constitutes at and it is around these areas that efforts management of the coastal environment, focussed. restoration and rehabilitation will be The areas identified within the Regional Coastal Plan are predominantly RIVER within the Regional Coastal Plan The areas identified environments. mouths and estuarine the importance of the land-water interface. it is important to recognise However, the RIVER not only by activities within The values of these areas can be affected upstream, and on the land adjoining. mouths, but also by activities that occur COAST Coastal Plan, SIGNIFICANT Therefore, to complement the Regional The Regional Coastal Plan for Taranaki (1997) identifies areas within the (1997) identifies areas Taranaki Plan for The Regional Coastal coast need for integrated cultural reasons and recognises the landscape, social or these features. the coastal environment to protect management within as breeding areas for species that hold key areas are very important places, serving Regional Taranaki and marine ecosystems. positions in many oceanic food chains Mean of activities below the the effects Council is responsible for controlling Springs mark. Water High Natural character is a complex integration and interrelation of a range of qualities a range of qualities interrelation of integration and is a complex Natural character by those constructed as distinct from created by nature that have been and features physical, may be ecological, up natural character qualities that make The people. and managed or aesthetic in nature and include modified spiritual, cultural environments. app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 228

AREA . road. . This road. L TURAL bridge at the bend in the RIVER, and RIVER, bend in the at the d bridge roa ferns, flax and sedge. This is replaced by This is replaced sedge. flax and ferns, tree trees, sedge). , manuka, , manuka, trees Eradication of all exotics on the causeway and replanting with appropriate Eradication of all exotics on the causeway this area should be of types that do not plant species (flax, raupo). Plants in is not obstructed from the grow high so that the view of the estuary Advocate for the replacement of causeway armour with natural material Advocate for the replacement of causeway (boulders) and planting. landward of SH3 to protect the Fencing on the north side of the RIVER, of appropriate riparian species (flax, riverbanks from stock and planting cabbage Maintenance of the existing riparian strip on the south side of the RIVER, Maintenance of the existing riparian landward of SH3. On the south side of the RIVER there is a riparian strip, up to 20m wide, of wide, of to 20m strip, up a riparian there is RIVER side of the south On the cabbage the east of to the 800m macrocarpa that juts man-made peninsula of baches on a small by a small group to the west and are mostly well vegetated of this peninsula The edges RIVER. out into the car tyre and is protected by riverbank to the west the the east; however, stable to iron retaining walls. corrugated rubble at the inter- SH3 are armoured with rock and concrete The causeways for side of the which are grass and gorse bank to the tidal level, above character of the area. visual impact on the natural area presents the greatest Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries NA ANT Mohakatino River mouth SIGNIFIC The boundary of the options Management • should extend from the sea to the last area of mudflats approximately 1.5km along the sea to the last area of mudflats should extend from RIVER of SH3, the northern ridge of the the west To 20.1). the RIVER (Figure and fenced off This area is to SH3 marks this boundary. bowl from the coast the south, the boundary should run 5-10m back from the To managed by DoC. in front of the baches. edge and down along the riverbank cliff and southern boundaries should also be On the eastern side of SH3 the northern ridge and should incorporate the area of baches along the top of the sub-catchment beside SH3. • • • Area) and is Mohakatino River mouth (site 1) (site mouth River Mohakatino 20.3 Landward of SH3, the RIVER margins have often been modified. The land on the have often been modified. Landward of SH3, the RIVER margins for grazing animals, with sparse natural north side of the RIVER is kept in pasture from stock. that is not protected on the margin vegetation (flax, raupo and sedge) fairly degraded state from the road bridge to The riverbank is eroding, and is in a southeast. the bend in the RIVER 800m to the The south side of the RIVER west of SH3 is mainly steep cliff face, covered face, covered SH3 is mainly steep cliff The south side of the RIVER west of on the face and grazing pasture along the top with small patches of remnant bush shows signs of slow and steady erosion. face is bare and edge. Much of this cliff height are two baches surrounded by a decrease in Beside SH3, where the cliffs grassed area running down to the and a large mix of native and exotic vegetation RIVER’S edge. well fenced and protected from grazing animals. well fenced and protected from grazing The wetland backs onto a strip of coastal forest (karaka/kawakawa) on fairly steep onto a strip of coastal forest (karaka/kawakawa) The wetland backs at SH3 to the west, RIVER bowl to the north, which terminates hillside around the This metres before the open coast. at the top of the hillside and a few hundred is thought to have arrived as a tree, which Tainui small area of forest contains the canoe found in the wetland (DoC, 1991), and therefore has Tainui seedling in the This side of the Mohakatino estuary is value. significant cultural and ecological Beach Conservation owned and managed by DoC (the Mohakatino The Mohakatino River mouth is the most northern estuary in New Plymouth estuary in New is the most northern River mouth The Mohakatino still exists in State Highway 3 (SH3) to the west of Much of the estuary District. 1991). It has Taranaki (DoC, in of the least modified state and it is one its original bank. wetland on the northern with a large mud and sand flats inter-tidal extensive and Wetlands of Ecological as nationally significant in the This wetland is rated Inventory has (DoC, 1985), while the Geopreservation Representative importance of regional significance as an interesting estuarine swamp recorded this estuary has been recognised as having significant The whole area (DoC, 1991). number of for a large providing habitat and food sources conservation values, bird species. It has also including nationally threatened coastal birds and fish, having significant landscape values. been recognised as Description app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 229 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW gins. Mohakatino River mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL mouth SIGNIFICANT River Mohakatino Encourage bach and landowners to plant estuarine/coastal native plants on their properties, especially along the RIVER mar along the RIVER properties, especially plants on their native to plant estuarine/coastal bach and landowners Encourage Fencing of the tops of the southern cliffs to exclude stock and planting of coastal forest natives similar to those already existing on the cliffs to decrease the potential decrease the potential to the cliffs existing on similar to those already forest natives planting of coastal exclude stock and to cliffs the tops of the southern Fencing of and slips. for erosion • Figure 20.1 Figure • app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 230

AREA L AL . This road. trees and plants in the road becomes close to the RIVER. behind the domain and baches. This boundary road behind the domain and baches. AREA, just where the L AL Fencing of the boundary above the cliffs and caves on the southern bank of and caves on the southern bank cliffs Fencing of the boundary above the the RIVER, seaward of SH3 and planting of similar natives to those already established to decrease the potential for erosion and slips. presents the greatest visual impact on the natural character of the area. visual impact on the natural character presents the greatest gardens. The riverbank in this area is fronted by mudflats with some vegetation this area is fronted by mudflats with The riverbank in gardens. This area reserve. the riverbank, which is vested as esplanade around the edge of New Plymouth District Council. is also managed by rubble at the inter- SH3 are armoured with rock and concrete The causeways for side of the which are grass and gorse bank to the tidal level, above Minister of Conservation, administers the reserve under a management plan (April plan management under a reserve the administers of Conservation, Minister 1990). to a sharp the northern riverbank continues along the coastal forest East of SH3 land is River the Tongaporutu in the Past this bend bend in the RIVER. southerly this wide mud flats in There are fairly ownership. and is in private kept in pasture bank. the often eroded (sedge) on some sparse vegetation region, and baches and homes east of SH3, are more private On the southern riverbank, of mostly natives and some exotic planted with a mixture Management options Management • Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries AST CO River mouth SIGNIFICANT Tongaporutu The boundary of the should extend from the sea to the last significant area of mudflats approximately should extend from the sea to the last the west of SH3, the northern ridge of the side of the To 2km along the RIVER. to SH3 marks the boundary (Figure 20.2). RIVER and catchment from the coast south, the To forest that is reserve land. This boundary runs partly through coastal and then edge from the sea from the cliff the boundary should run 5-10m back Domain and run along Tongaporutu next to widen to include the remnant forest the riverside edge of the of SH3 to the end of the SIGNIFICANT should continue on the RIVER side COAST of SH3, the boundary should be along the On the opposite of the RIVER, east the pocket of mudflats below the pasture ridge of the sub-catchment hills around the catchment that is covered by coastal land and then extend to the ridge of forest land is also reserve. This forest.

There are tree trees around the that are very conspicuous along the trees that are very conspicuous along the which runs along the northern bank is barely visible. Much the northern bank is barely visible. road which runs along Tongaporutu River mouth (site 2) (site mouth River Tongaporutu long the top of the steep bushed area between the coast and SH3 are Along the top of the steep bushed area 20.4 The south side of Tongaporutu River (that is, the true left bank), west of SH3 is Tongaporutu The south side of (planted for soil control and shelter covered with native vegetation a high cliff showing exposed clay and rock elsewhere. purposes) in the less steep areas and half way back towards SH3 where extends from the sea to This area of cliff Recreation Reserve). (Tongaporutu an area of flat land adjoins the RIVER Domain has a grassed area with picnic benches set aside for public Tongaporutu gorse and wattle are small patches of wild ginger, There use. fern), and the skyline. has been undertaken closer to the edge of the western area and some planting public area at the other end of the domain The riverbanks (flax and pohutukawa). of the The baches, which lease some pohutukawa. is occupied by several large of natives and exotics, and are often reserve area, are planted with a mixture the RIVER to protect from erosion. armoured with concrete walls along the pipeline easement and rock groynes near also protection works associated with of the Plymouth District Council, on behalf the western end of the domain. New of this northern side is reserve land - the Umukaha Recreation Reserve on the of this northern side is reserve land Historic Reserve (Pa site) between the RIVER and Tehia coast and the Pou SH3. pine approximately one dozen large To the west of SH3, the fairly steep northern riverbank is covered by native steep northern riverbank is covered the west of SH3, the fairly To rewarewa, puriri, coastal forest (beech, karaka, hardwood and broadleaf The Tongaporutu River mouth is somewhat similar to the Mohakatino River to the Mohakatino is somewhat similar River mouth Tongaporutu The sea, has a wide the entrance to the unmodified near that it is relatively mouth in This sand flats. areas of mud and and has large inside the entrance lagoon just marsh provide habitat salt wetlands and marginal and the adjacent whole area fish species, spawning number of coastal birds and a large and food sources for a number of migratory fish, and roosting areas for areas for native freshwater Inventory The Geopreservation (DoC, 1991, 1995). and wading bird species due to as an area of national importance Tongaporutu at has recorded the coast 1991). It has also been Epoch that are present (DoC, the fossils of the Miocene significant landscape values. recognised as having Description app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 231 trees, sedge LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Tongaporutu River mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT mouth River Tongaporutu etc). Removal of exotic and pest species from the grassed areas at each end of the baches, and planting of riparian and other native vegetation. of riparian and other and planting end of the baches, grassed areas at each species from the of exotic and pest Removal by the public. better utilisation facilities to enable bins and other seating, rubbish access to the domain, of better vehicular Provision coastal species. and native riparian vegetation planting, especially character through enhance the natural bach owners to Encourage (flax, cabbage appropriate species and planting of from stock to protect the riverbanks landward of SH3 of the RIVER, the northern bank Fencing of Figure 20.2 Figure • • • • app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 232 . should should A ARE L AL The majority of management in the Mimi Estuary is removal of exotics in the Mimi Estuary is removal The majority of management around the margin. and planting of a riparian strip (mainly gorse), fencing and should continue on the southern RIVER margin This has already begun around the planting at present) and in other areas here (only sparse boundary. the sand spit on the north side area of reclaimed land opposite The large as grazing pasture, could possibly be of the RIVER, that is currently used above planted in natives. If this is not returned to wetland and the hillside riparian planting the hillside should possible, then along with fencing and This will continue the corridor of and planted in natives. be fenced off from the Mimi Scenic Reserve inland, forest, that extends almost unbroken all the way to the coast. Management options Management • • Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries ST COA ANT SIGNIFIC mouth River of the Mimi boundary The extend from the sea to 300m past the wetland on the south side of the RIVER, on the south side past the wetland the sea to 300m extend from boundary The northern 20.3). the RIVER (Figure 1.3km along approximately boundary coast to the up RIVER from the the ridge of the riverbank should be To the south the boundary should incorporate the sand spit and run along the top and run along the the sand spit should incorporate south the boundary the To and along the top of the and around the reclaimed swamp flats of the south head along to the up stream include the wetland and the riverbank ridge. It should also boundary. ge A range range A Mimi River mouth (site 3) (site Mimi mouth River 20.5 a, this has also been planted out and fenced Above this wetland is the second Pa, this has also been planted out and as has the hillside on the opposite side of (puriri, karo, oleria, pohutukawa, flax), southern side of Mimi River are very keen The current owners of the the wetland. character of this area. to enhance the natural to support any efforts The Mimi River mouth is characterised by mud/sand flat, salt rush, reed swamp rush, reed swamp flat, salt by mud/sand River mouth is characterised The Mimi The 1991). (DoC, Taranaki in which are uncommon dune habitat, all of and sand was once a lar modified, what been extensively in this area have RIVER flats have been reclaimed as pasture land. On the opposite bank the RIVER flats has been planted with natives (Oleria, flax, this side of the stream However, owners all the way to the Pa site on the by the current pohutukawa) and fenced off significant area of wetland in this area They have also fenced the southern head. a site have DoC and the Iwi of the south head P and planted around its margins. flax and pingao. planted this area near the coast with Description of the RIVER bowl the steep bank of the Pa is covered in remnant the south To in size as grazing stock encroach further bush which has gradually been shrinking side of the RIVER bowl, the hillside is into it. Opposite the Pa on the northern for pasture area of reclaimed swamp used covered mostly with gorse with a large upstream Further on the RIVER margin. although some flax and sedge is visible and is covered with remnant lowland bush. the north bank becomes very steep The RIVER winds through a large area of flats near the entrance and then north area of flats near the through a large The RIVER winds sand Tall into the sea. behind a sand spit, before emptying parallel to the coast occupy the spit between the RIVER and the dunes covered by spinifex and sedge sea. swamp area is now mostly reclaimed pasture although some pockets of swamp do mostly reclaimed pasture although swamp area is now conservation value due to is recognised as having significant The area still remain. sand dune habitats. spit, tidal mud flats, salt marsh and its extensive sand spawning occurs in the birds use this area and whitebait of migratory and wading for its landscape values. 1995). It has also been recognised upper reaches (DoC, the RIVER flats and one two Pa sites, one to the south of The area incorporates the estuary to the sea. looking down across app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 233 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Mimi River mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT mouth Mimi River Figure 20.3 Figure app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 234

The eastern AREA trees from . L AL and the riverbank the riverbank d and roa planting, particularly on RIVER margins and planting, particularly on RIVER margins tree lymouth District Council owns some of New Plymouth District Council owns some to the upriver boundary. escarpments, and eradicate the exotics on the eastern side of the RIVER escarpments, and eradicate the exotics mouth. restoration in the form of planting of Implement the programme of dune retreat (Gibb 1996). appropriate species as well as a managed remove gorse and other exotics, Protect the eastern headland from stock, to stabilise the area. and plant native coastal forest species headland by fencing from above, Protect the coastal forest on the western including several pine and remove the gorse and other exotics, along the ridge top. riverbanks to plant appropriate Encourage property owners along the riparian species. Undertake additional • • • • planted in appropriate native plants by the owners (flax and pohutukawa). Narrow pohutukawa). (flax and owners by the native plants in appropriate planted the between located tables with picnic areas grassed (opposite the motor camp and another opposite the golf course) are managed by managed are golf course) the opposite and another motor camp the (opposite areas are sometimes riverbanks in these The District Council. New Plymouth flax, ginger, (blackberry, of exotics and natives have a mixture eroded and pohutukawa). Across the RIVER, the western boundary should run along the top of the headland the western boundary should run Across the RIVER, line 5-10m back from the A of the RIVER to the township. and around the bowl COASTAL SIGNIFICANT delineate the remainder of the RIVER’S edge should AREA include this land. this area and so the boundary should NT COAST NT Urenui River mouth SIGNIFICA The boundary of the and campground and run along the Pa site, golf course boundary should include boundary bowl from the sea to the upstream the ridge of the RIVER options Management • Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries area of mudflat on the west side the sea to past the last large should extend from (Figure 20.4). 1.3km along the RIVER of the RIVER, approximately The area Along the fairly large stretch of forest stretches far stretch of forest stretches far fairly large A management plan has been produced to control the beach erosion management plan has been produced A Urenui River mouth (site 4) (site mouth River Urenui 20.6 RIVER margin around the edge of the township on the western riverbank, there around the edge of the township on the western riverbank, there RIVER margin been are several areas that have been armoured and fortified. Other parts have The remnant coastal forest on the western headland of the Urenui River is in The remnant coastal forest on the western although there are some gorse and pine better condition than that of the east, trees along the top of the hillside. the south side to the township. back along this steep hillside, bordering Urenui is a very popular seaside town that has high recreational usage including usage including high recreational town that has a very popular seaside Urenui is holidaying and walking, picnicking, beach activities, boating, swimming, fishing, although modified largely mouth has been The Urenui River 1989). golf (NPDC, an scale makes it large of its natural character and its fairly it does retain some for either public or area. Much of the area has been reclaimed important coastal there are extensive is relatively little wetland remaining, While there private use. birds (DoC, 1991). provide a food source for wading mud/sand flats that by allocating wooden access pathways. (Gibb, 1996a). Beach access is limited Description of the RIVER entrance, is subject to a long- The dune face of Urenui Beach, east and pohutukawa planting along the There is a strip of flax term erosion trend. much of the leading edge is currently being beach in front of the motor camp but undercut. The Urenui Domain Recreation Reserve (incorporating the baches and the motor Recreation Reserve (incorporating The Urenui Domain and adjoins the golf the north-western side of the RIVER camp) is located on The plan (NPDC, 1989). area is covered by a management course. Much of this coastal forest from of the golf course is covered by remnant hillside to the east In places, exotic and noxious plants (gorse, the headland to the upper reaches. Urenui Te especially around forest margin, wattle, woolly-nightshade) invade the south east corner of the golf course and the Historic Reserve located between the from the Pa to the sea changes from a untidy The eastern RIVER margin RIVER. felled macrocarpa, with the occasional woolly mix of flax, wattle, pohutukawa and course, to the fairly well planted borders of nightshade around the edge of the golf sedge). Some areas are also armoured against the motor camp (flax, pohutukawa, eroding. erosion while other areas are slowly is also recognised as having significant landscape value. is also recognised app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 235 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Urenui River mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL mouth SIGNIFICANT River Urenui Figure 20.4 Figure app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 236

A ARE L AL bridge and the hairpin turn on the RIVER. road bridge and the hairpin Clear gorse, brush wattle and other exotics from both sides of the RIVER wattle and other exotics from both Clear gorse, brush between the Protect the bush on the eastern and western ridges by fencing to exclude the eastern and western ridges by Protect the bush on stock. vegetation and from the headlands, stabilise with native Eradicate exotics protect from stock. in the form of planting of Adopt a programme of dune restoration retreat (as for Urenui). appropriate species as well as a managed Management options Management • Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries AST CO ANT SIGNIFIC mouth River of the Onaero boundary The should extend from the sea to the SH3 road bridge, approximately 700m along the 700m along approximately to the SH3 road bridge, from the sea should extend from the coast high riverbank the ridge of the the east, To 20.5). RIVER (Figure back should run 5-10m west, the boundary the To the boundary. to SH3 marks riverbank all forest covered the ridge of coastal edge then up along cliff from the SH3. the way to • • • f trees and plants such as Norfolk ferns, flax, sedge, and some spinifex ferns, flax, sedge, and some spinifex tree fern) visible. The RIVER’S edge is bordered The RIVER’S fern) visible. tree Onaero River mouth (site 5) (site mouth River Onaero 20.7 Inside the RIVER mouth on the west side of the RIVER, the gorse topped clif Inside the RIVER mouth on the west down to the RIVER’S edge. Following the RIVER around the spit the banks are down to the RIVER’S edge. Following the bank becomes the open coast of a small fairly well planted with natives until Both Here there is erosion along the front of black sand capped clay banks. bay. and the eastern headland is steep cliffs, headlands are covered in gorse above severely eroded. coastal forest that runs all the way to SH3. gives way to a strip of dense remnant Onaero motor camp and private baches, is a mix The RIVER flat, occupied by the ginger and pohutukawa. of grasses, raupo, taupata, flax, gorse, Both banks of the Onaero River next to SH3 are a mixture of exotics and natives, Onaero River next to SH3 are a mixture Both banks of the As the RIVER turns sharply towards wattle and willow. with gorse, blackberry, with lush native forest on its eastern side, to steep cliffs the sea, it runs close karaka, (kowhai, rewarewa, The area around the Onaero River mouth includes a campground, private baches, private baches, a campground, River mouth includes around the Onaero The area no lagoon There is area. is a popular recreational and a surf club and a domain and sandbank. wide area of shingle instead there is a Onaero Beach, area behind to a Pa site (Pukemiro) to is rated nationally important due This RIVER mouth that runs from the ground and an ancient Maori pathway the south of the camp 1991). It is also nationally important Rau o to Huia inland (DoC, Te coast to as having significant 1991). It has also been recognised geologically (DoC, landscape values. Description by raupo and sedge. Towards the RIVER mouth, the Onaero Domain Recreation Towards by raupo and sedge. a mix of Reserve is an open grassed area with mainly consists of The RIVER margin pines, banksia, pohutukawa and flax. fairly steep banks with pohutukawa, app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 237 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Onaero River mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL mouth SIGNIFICANT River Onaero Figure 20.5 Figure app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 238

. AREA L AL planting that occurs along the western planting that occurs tree riverbank would enhance the aesthetics of this side of the RIVER, with the aesthetics of this side of riverbank would enhance scheme. requirements of the flood control regard given to the pampas etc.) (such as gorse, woolly nightshade, Removal of pest species the western bank. and from the DoC wetland on from the eastern bank rubble armouring and replacement Advocate for removal of the concrete low level planting where practicable. with natural materials or disguise by upstream to improve water quality Advocacy for riparian management A continuation of the continuation A • • • Taranaki Regional Council maintains the stop-banks on both sides of the RIVER RIVER sides of the on both the stop-banks maintains Council Regional Taranaki scheme. flood control of the as part Management options Management • Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries ST COA SIGNIFIC ANT River mouth Waitara of the The boundary 700m along bridge, approximately to the North Street from the sea should extend to from the coast of the stop bank the east, the ridge To (Figure 20.6). the RIVER the DoC west, the boundary should include the To boundary. the bridge marks the and the grassed areas beside the RIVER. managed wetland The . The . trees, and flax, lthough there have been concerns in the past about the been concerns in the past about the Although there have Waitara River mouth (site 6) (site mouth River Waitara 20.8 On the western side of the RIVER, a line of pohutukawas, Norfolk pines and other On the western side of the RIVER, Street bridge down to the wetland trees line the top of the bank from the North This 2.3ha scenic reserve is Conservation. administered by the Department of taupata, Hebe sp., cabbage dominated by raupo, with occasional Further upriver there is an area of riverbank which supports consolidated Further upriver there is an area of riverbank during inundated is which species, wetland and marsh with interspersed vegetation of the RIVER is again fortified by a concrete high flows. Past this area, the bank retaining wall up to the bridge. The Waitara River mouth has been confined, or partially confined, by moles has been confined, or partially River mouth Waitara The west mole is only the Today since 1885 (Gibb, 1996b). built of concrete blocks isolated from the shore. section of the east mole remains still intact and a small east mole the RIVER mouth is controlled by Inside the remaining section of the Bar Board Riders Club which continues Waitara a boulder groyne in front of the east side. low tide mud flat on the a large upstream until the RIVER widens with bank is fortified by the concrete wall Downstream of the wetland, the western pohutukawa of the west mole. Marine Park is mainly open grass, with some by New Plymouth District Council The park is managed and banksia hedging. Reserves Development and Waitara and is included in the Trust) Harbour (Waitara Planning Report (1995). area has been classified as nationally important geologically (DoC, 1991). as nationally important geologically area has been classified mainly in the wetland wildlife habitat for coastal birds, area is also an important and marshland areas. The private gardens that back onto pampas. as well as exotics such as gorse and in similar natives. the swamp are also fairly well planted quality of the water, people still fish, whitebait and set flounder nets (DoC, 1991). and set flounder nets (DoC, 1991). people still fish, whitebait quality of the water, is popular on the bar that is well utilised and surfing There is boat access The Waitara is the largest and most modified RIVER in New Plymouth District, RIVER in New Plymouth most modified and is the largest Waitara The boulders and form of concrete, both banks in the armouring of with extensive natural area with little centre of an urban runs through the The RIVER rubble. character remaining. Description app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 239 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Waitara River mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT mouth River Waitara Figure 20.6 Figure app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 240

A ARE L AL long both sides of the Along both Eradication of pest species (gorse, boxthorn, etc.) and planting of riparian species (gorse, boxthorn, etc.) and Eradication of pest using appropriate species. margin areas along the stream similar to those such as pohutukawa and taupata, species, Planting of larger the area, higher up the streambanks. already planted in to low profile bank terraces should be restricted Planting on the east to impede the RIVER control works. vegetation so as not Management options Management • • • Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries ST COA ANT SIGNIFIC mouth Stream Waiongana of the boundary The the constriction lagoon, marked by to the end of the from the sea should extend include the the stream, and should 800m along approximately of the waterway 20.7). mouth (Figure the east of the stream lagoon to stream lagoon the boundary should be at the top of the streambank, which is of top of the streambank, should be at the the boundary stream lagoon and width. varying steepness road to the general public. Even Waiongana Stream mouth (site 7) (site mouth Stream Waiongana 20.9 though the access is not good, the Waiongana Stream mouth has high recreational Waiongana though the access is not good, the fishing. Kaimoana is gathered from the entire usage - white-baiting, surfing and the south head is reputedly good shark reef area near the stream mouth and The relatively limited access of this area will encourage the fishing (DoC, 1991). preservation of the site. The stream mouth is fairly inaccessible by The stream mouth is fairly inaccessible The beach on the eastern side is narrower; shingle occupies most of the shore. The beach on the eastern side is narrower; stand in grasses that back onto a large The eastern head is also mainly covered strip of pohutukawa in front of a group of of pampas. Behind the pampas is a the grassed and eroded streambank along The pampas continues above caravans. The stream constricts and turns to the south. the edge of the lagoon, up until the of private flood control works. east bank is terraced in places as part On the western side of the stream the land is mostly a radiata pine plantation, with of the stream the land is mostly a On the western side margin the coast the stream Towards bank and some gorse. a slightly eroded grass by the local IWI) and grassed area with some flax (planted opens up to a low wide beach adjacent to There is a fairly gorse and boxthorn. taupata, as well as This side of the stream is a Maori Reserve. the shingle stream mouth. The relatively narrow stream mouth widens into a lagoon that is approximately stream mouth widens into a lagoon The relatively narrow to the north that is There is also a lagoon 700m long. 40m wide and almost isolated from the RIVER. Although this stream mouth is fairly modified, it is quite isolated with little it is quite isolated is fairly modified, this stream mouth Although as has rated this site of Conservation The Department near the coast. development migratory wading and threatened the presence of rare important due to nationally riparian management plan and the waterway is covered by a birds (DoC, 1991), landscape value. recognised as having significant This area is also (TRC, 1996). Description app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 241 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Waiongana Stream mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT mouth Stream Waiongana Figure 20.7 Figure app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 242 A strip A L AL boundary. AREA L AL Eradication of exotic pest species (gorse, boxthorn, blackberry, etc.) and pest species (gorse, boxthorn, blackberry, Eradication of exotic and coastal forest vegetation along the RIVER margins planting of riparian been initiated in areas head. Planting has already species on the western planned for the delta bank and around the lagoon, and is along the western (DoC and Forest and Bird). area in the near future picnic tables, toilet/shower blocks, a Addition of public facilities (such as defined parking area, etc.). across the dune system that backs onto Establishment of defined pathways from foot traffic is minimised. the beach in this area to ensure damage Management options Management • • • Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries COAST NT SIGNIFIC A River mouth Waiwhakaiho of the The boundary AREA should extend from the sea to the first bend approximately 600m along approximately to the first bend extend from the sea should AREA lagoon on include the artificial boundary should The (Figure 20.8). the RIVER head. area of the western and the grass/scrub side of the RIVER the west of land, located approximately 10m along the bank of the eastern branch of the 10m along the bank of of land, located approximately known as the rifle range), the first bend in the RIVER (presently RIVER and up to COAST the SIGNIFICANT should also be within Around ). There trees). road runs from the gravel car park, between the man-made lagoon road runs from the gravel car park, A Waiwhakaiho River mouth (site 8) (site mouth River Waiwhakaiho groyne built of large boulders and concrete protects the south head of the boulders and concrete protects the south groyne built of large 20.10 Across the RIVER from Lake Rotomanu the steep riverbank in front of the Across the RIVER from Lake Rotomanu Closer to the RIVER mouth, the land railway track is fairly eroded in places. Rewa Rewa Management Committee is kept in pasture Te administered by the bed divides closer to the coast; the main The RIVER and is eroded near the edge. branch that empties to the east which only channel is to the west, with a secondary presently covered in rushes. Between these flows under flood conditions and is sedge and This area is covered by gorse, DoC. channels lies an island managed by probably because of its inaccessibility. taupata and is visibly not well managed, is also abundant gorse in this area and on the actual riverbank, which is grassed is also abundant gorse in this area and and eroded. to the The riverbank adjacent and the golf course and past Lake Rotomanu. and in some places recently planted. lake is grassed, sometimes eroding This whole area is exotic and natives. Lake Rotomanu is a mixture of mature Plan (NPDC, 1994). incorporated in the Peringa Park Management shingle RIVER mouth. To the south of the groyne is a wide sand beach, shingle to of the groyne is a wide sand beach, the south To shingle RIVER mouth. unkempt grass and a large the groyne there is a gravel carpark the north. Beside bracken, boxthorn, taupata) below the (kikuyu) and scrub area (gorse, blackberry, been dumped in the past around an area Fitzroy Golf Course. Here gravel has Moving up the southern riverbank there posted as a ‘sand stabilisation project’. the NZ Farmers Fertiliser industry) that has is a man-made lagoon (remnants of (olearia, flax and cabbage recently been planted around the edges A The Waiwhakaiho River mouth is located at the northern end of New Plymouth northern end of New is located at the River mouth Waiwhakaiho The Te by the and land administered Golf Course lies between the Fitzroy City and surrounds have RIVER mouth and The Management Committee. Rewa Rewa and clearing of native protection works along the riverbanks been modified by is used Waiwhakaiho The restoration planting is underway. vegetation although 1991). It is also a good is a very diverse koura habitat (DoC, for whitebaiting and other coastal activities gathering kaimoana, as well as many site for fishing and and has a high level of boating, etc.) (DoC, 1991) (e.g. surfing, windsurfing, recreational usage. Description Updated December 2009 (update 5h) app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 243 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Waiwhakaiho River mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT mouth River Waiwhakaiho Figure 20.8 Figure app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 244 Eradication of exotics and planting of riparian vegetation should be should be vegetation of riparian and planting exotics of Eradication the stream margins. area and along in the car park/picnic continued face and on the cliff in accessible areas top and top of the cliff Across the and low profile should be eradicated exotic species the cliff the foot of should be (e.g. taupata) hardy vegetation to inhibit the views), (so as not top. the cliff planted along restricted to the from Centennial Park should be Access to the beach existing pathways. for Centennial Park, plan should be formulated management A already existing in the planting complementary to that incorporating native species and providing and karo) and other coastal forest area (flax, taupata for recreational opportunities. Management options Management • • • • t Access to rea (managed by the Department of Conservation) and is of Conservation) by the Department Area (managed should extend along the cliff tops of Centennial Park, around should extend along the cliff AREA Centennial Park/Sugar Loaf (Nga Motu) Islands area area Islands Motu) (Nga Loaf Park/Sugar Centennial 9) (site L AL 20.11 aritutu and include the Herekawe Stream mouth up to Centennial Drive (Figure Paritutu and include the Herekawe Stream 20.9). NT ANT The boundary of the Centennial Park/Sugar Loaf Islands SIGNIFIC COAST Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries ark is a mixture of grassland (grazed) and patches of scrub. grassland (grazed) and patches of Centennial Park is a mixture of Description the Sugar Loaf aritutu adjoins Stream to P area from Herekawe The coastal Islands Conservation by New Reserve (managed Park recreation of the Paritutu Centennial comprised area are of national The park and the conservation Plymouth District Council). This (DoC, 1991). and marine life) and cultural importance ecological (bird life site because of the a nationally important geological area is also considered and is a REGIONALLY islands and Paritutu) (DoC, 1991) volcanic forms (the LANDSCAPE. SIGNIFICANT The small shingle stream mouth empties to the sea between steep cliffs on to the sea between steep cliffs The small shingle stream mouth empties gorse/scrub and lower down sedge. High both sides that are topped with some are The cliffs Park through the area. rise from the beach up to Centennial cliffs by vegetation and other times fairly well sometimes eroded and sparsely covered are constant These cliffs and kikuyu grass. covered with taupata, flax, boxthorn (foot) all the way around the coast to Paritutu, interrupted by an access way adjacent to Motuotamatea Island. the cliffs from a viewing platform at the top of flax, taupata and karo where bare rock isn’ Paritutu itself is well covered in dense aritutu or Back Beach) is from a small car park and grassed BBQ area is from a small car park and grassed the beach (Paritutu or Back Beach) been planted around in The BBQ area has Herekawe Stream. on the north side of flax and other natives. showing. app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 245 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Centennial Park/Sugar Loaf Islands SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT Loaf Islands Park/Sugar Centennial Figure 20.9 Figure app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 246

A ARE L AL Management of the dune system in front of the clubhouse near the beach, dune system in front of the clubhouse Management of the access and appropriate planting. including managed strip adjoining the the grass/pohutukawa for parking off Adequate provision planting. access points, with appropriate RIVER and restricted of the stormwater outlet. Redesign or relocation on the western side of riparian and coastal forest species Continued planting of the RIVER mouth. of riparian vegetation and coastal Eradication of exotics and planting Provision of parking and recreational forest species to the south of SH45. bins. facilities such as picnic tables and rubbish Management options Management • • • • • Boundaries of the SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT the of Boundaries AST CO ANT SIGNIFIC mouth River of the Oakura boundary The should extend from the sea to the first bend in the RIVER past SH45 (Figure in the RIVER past to the first bend from the sea should extend east and should be the the bowl of the RIVER the ridge around The top of 20.10). top of then run along the boundary should The north of SH45. west boundaries, grassed area beside include the flat riverbank and of the forested western the ridge the east. the road to ferns, tree ge pohutukawa, road bridge inland fern, flax, kawa kawa) tree few large exotics are visible along the few large A trees). access. The main part of the domain is comprised of The main part of the vehicle access. reserve). Across the shingle and boulder lined RIVER Across road (road reserve). Oakura River mouth (site 10) (site mouth River Oakura 20.12 puriri, rewa rewa) on the steep riverbank that runs from the puriri, rewa rewa) on the steep riverbank by New Plymouth District Council This land is owned for approximately 1km. (closed road and esplanade reserve). top of the forest (gum and exotics (wattle, gorse, blackberry, macrocarpa) in front of a grassed area macrocarpa) in front of a and exotics (wattle, gorse, blackberry, beside the forest (kawa kawa, beech, is a picturesque area of lowland broadleaf Inland, across SH45, Oakura River bends to the south. On the eastern bank there Inland, across SH45, Oakura River mix of natives ( is a thin strip of vegetation that is a djacent to the domain the riverbank on the northeast side (true right bank) is the riverbank on the northeast side Adjacent to the domain is planted with pohutukawa at spaced The bank eroding along the grass bank. left bank) is the Oakura Across the RIVER (true intervals up to the bridge. is grass, with gorse, bracken and wattle although there has The land MARAE. and there is some rock protection on the been some planting of flax in this area on the ridge above the MARAE. eroding section. Housing is visible beech, kawakawa, flax, taupata and exotics) on the hillside of the RIVER bowl all flax, taupata and exotics) on the hillside beech, kawakawa, SH45. the way around to To the east of the RIVER mouth small dunes (flax, spinifex, Hebe sp.), back small dunes (flax, spinifex, Hebe the east of the RIVER mouth To There is some sign of of a clubhouse located on the domain. the beach in front and beside the clubhouse of the dune system in front of erosion and degradation where there is a (lar and is surrounded by dense vegetation well kept sports fields Oakura River mouth is central to a large RIVER bowl with Maori land to the bowl with Maori RIVER to a large mouth is central Oakura River to the north. District Council land) (New Plymouth a public domain south and the RIVER bends of the bowl, where the inland edge the RIVER on SH45 crosses sharply to the south. Description app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 247 LYMOUTH DISTRICT PLAN DISTRICT PLYMOUTH NEW Oakura River mouth SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREA COASTAL SIGNIFICANT mouth River Oakura Figure 20.10 Figure app20 - SIGNIFICANT COASTAL AREAS 248 Areas Programme. Areas of Significant Conservation Value. Conservation Areas of Significant Strategy. Conservation Management New Coastal Erosion along Urenui Beach, For the Sustainable Management of Strategic Options Plymouth District. Haururu, New Plymouth Tai River Mouth, Waitara Moles at the Training For the Strategic Options District. the System of Nature. Within Environmental Science - Living New Zealand Geopreservation Inventory. Plans. Urenui and Onaero Domains Management Peringa Park Management Plan - Incorporating Lake Rotomanu. River Coastal Margin. Waitara Stream to Waiongana Riparian Management Plan - LM10/67 rotected Natural for the Protected Natural Survey Report Conservatory. Wanganui Resource Inventory, The Coastal References Bayfield, M. A., S. P. Courtney and M. I. Wiessing, 1991. Wiessing, Courtney and M. I. P. A., S. M. Bayfield, Department of Conservation, 1995. Department of Conservation, Gibb, J. G., 1996a. Gibb, J. G., 1996b. 1989. Kupchella C. E. and M. C. Hyland, Ministry for the Environment, 1983. New Plymouth District Council, 1989. New Plymouth District Council, 1994. Council, 1996. Regional Taranaki Department of Conservation, 1991. Department of Conservation, Department of Conservation, 1991. of Conservation, Department 20.13