Pukekura (Taiaroa Head) Reserves Management Plan March 2013
Te Rūnanga ō Ōtākou (Inc) CONTENTS
Acknowledgements ...... 2 Tauparapara...... 3 Foreword...... 4 1. Introduction ...... 5 1.1 Preamble ...... 5 1.2 Pukekura Values and Guiding Principles ...... 5 1.3 Vision for Pukekura ...... 6 1.4 Purpose of a Management Plan ...... 7 1.5 Pukekura - Legal Descriptions, Classifications and Zoning ...... 8 1.6 The Otago Peninsula Trust ...... 11 1.7 Consideration of Other Documents ...... 12 1.8 Ngāi Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1998 ...... 12 2. Pukekura Reserve Values ...... 15 2.1 Ecological Values ...... 15 2.2 Cultural Values ...... 15 2.3 Historic Values ...... 17 2.4 Public Appreciation Values ...... 18 2.5 Tourism and Commercial Values ...... 18 2.6 Landscape Values ...... 19 3. Management of Pukekura ...... 20 4. Aims, Objectives and Policies ...... 22 4.1 Flora and Fauna and Habitat Management ...... 22 4.1.1 Native Fauna and Habitat Management ...... 22 4.1.2 Management of Flora ...... 23 4.1.3 Pest Animal Control ...... 24 4.1.4 Coastal Zone ...... 25 4.1.5 Aircraft ...... 26 4.2 Manuwhenua ...... 26 4.3 Archaeological, Cultural and Historical Management ...... 27 4.4 Visitor and Commercial Use ...... 28 4.4.1 Public Appreciation and Commercial use ...... 28 4.4.2 Signage and Interpretation ...... 30 4.4.3 Filming and Photography ...... 30 4.4.4 Research ...... 31 4.5 Protection of Landscape ...... 32 4.6 Operational Management ...... 34 4.6.1 Access ...... 34 4.6.2 Fencing ...... 35 4.6.3 Buildings and Structures ...... 35 4.6.4 Utilities and Waste Management ...... 36 4.6.5 Roads, Tracks and Car Parking ...... 37 4.6.6 Fire Risk Management ...... 38 4.6.7 Shipping Control Operations and the Meteorological Station ...... 39 4.7 Administration ...... 40 4.8 Cooperation and Collaboration with Local Land Owners ...... 41
1 Appendices Appendix 1 Section 20, Reserves Act 1977 (Purpose and Management Principles of Nature Reserves) and Section 23, Reserves Act 1977 (Purpose and Management Principles of Local Purpose Reserves)...... 43 Appendix 2 Taiaroa Head Weather Station Meteorological Service New Zealand Designation (Decision DP27.2/17) ...... 45 Appendix 3 Significant Native Species ...... 46 Appendix 4 Known Historical Structures ...... 48 Appendix 5 Features Map ...... 49 Appendix 6 Bibliography ...... 50 Appendix 7 Glossary...... 51 Appendix 7 Glossary...... 52
Acknowledgements
The image on the front cover of this Management Plan is a photographic reproduction of a painting depicting Pukekura and represents artist Chris Gaskin's interpretation of known archaeological and botanic information. The original work was commissioned by the Department of Conservation in 1994.
2 TAUPARAPARA
Pukekura
Tera Pukekura
Ka piri hau i te moana
I reira ka puta mai na
Te tuhi mata i Hawaiki
Mekemeke tia ko la o tau kaipuke
Ka kopakopa tia
Te manu haea tera Pukekura taku mauka tapu e!
This waiata relates to Māui, the great explorer of antiquity, taking refuge in the lee of Pukekura; the sails of his voyaging waka being rendered in tatters by the strong southern winds.
Pukekura provided Māui with refuge in time of a storm as it has provided for so many over countless ages. A headland with prominent views in all directions, surrounded on many sides by water, steep cliffs, sources of fresh water and kai, tempestuous weather yet with places of shelter.
It is not apparent that the Waitaha, the first people of the land, utilised the defensive qualities of Pukekura to any great extent; this is understandable given they lived in isolation from other tribes and hostile groups for hundreds of years.
Pukekura provided a haven, however, for the later arrivals, Kāti Māmoe and Kai Tāhu.
3 Foreword
This draft Management Plan has been While the Korako Karetai Trust, through jointly developed by the Korako Karetai kaitiakitanga, has a moral responsibility Trust, Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, the to work on behalf of the wellbeing of the Department of Conservation and the headland, it refutes any suggestion that Dunedin City Council1. The Department its participation in this process is an of Conservation and the Dunedin City acceptance of the NTCSA as it purports Council (as the current administrating to apply to Taiaroa Head. bodies) are at present responsible for making all statutory decisions under the The purpose of this draft Plan is to Wildlife Act 1953, the Reserves Act 1977 provide a consistent management and and the Conservation Act 1987 for the policy framework for all of the Pukekura four reserves that this draft Plan covers Reserves and ensure that any future and are referred to collectively as the development and enhancement does not Pukekura Reserves. conflict with the reserve values.
In 1992 both the Korako Karetai Trust as the successors to Korako Karetai and Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, lodged claims with the Waitangi Council Tribunal for the return of Pukekura (Taiaroa Head) which has been recognised in the Ngāi Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1998 (the NTCSA).
In 2008 the Korako Karetai Trust, frustrated with its inability to gain acknowledgement from the Crown in respect of the limitations of the enquiry into and settlement of the Taiaroa Head claims, withdrew from the claims settlement process prescribed within the NTCSA.
However, recognising the environmental importance of the headland and the need for a structured plan to deal with future development, the Korako Karetai Trust joined with Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou to initiate a process whereby such a plan could be formulated.
These two parties, along with the administering bodies, have agreed to work together to bring about this draft Management Plan and will formally establish a Pukekura Management Group to provide governance and ongoing strategic direction and management by the implementation of the Plan.
1 For the purpose of referencing, this Management Plan should be attributed collectively to these four bodies.
4 1. Introduction
"Naia te toa a Tarewai, kei a ia ano tana human use. Although there are many patu". values and uses, it is recognised that some are more significant and are "This is the bravery of Tarewai, I have therefore given greater importance in my patu back again". This relates to the the management of Pukekura. legendary retrieval by Tarewai of his patu and is metaphorically used to Pukekura is made up of a number of illustrate manawhenua once again being reserves with various reserve involved in the management of classifications administered under the Pukekura. Reserves Act 1977, Wildlife Act 1953 and the Conservation Act 1987.
1.1 Preamble This draft Pukekura Management Plan, which encompasses all the reserves, The location of Pukekura at the entrance ensures that the entire headland is to the Otago Harbour, bordered by managed in an integrated and consistent rugged cliffs and a sheltered beach way by manawhenua and the against the backdrop of the southern administering bodies. ocean, is key to why this area is so highly valued. Representatives of the Korako Karetai Trust, Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, the The importance of Pukekura is due to: Department of Conservation and the Dunedin City Council have jointly produced this comprehensive The presence of significant wildlife. Management Plan for Pukekura. The history, cultural significance and connection for manawhenua. The Management Plan provides a policy framework for decisions relating to the management and development of Historical features relating to post colonial use and defence strategies. Pukekura. Prioritising values and identifying 'Guiding Principles' ensures that Pukekura is sensitively managed The outstanding coastal landscape. and provides for all the values and uses The ease of access to this area for of the headland. Dunedin's residents. The statutory obligations, reserve The headland being Dunedin's classifications, value priorities, guiding premier wildlife tourist attraction. principles and other administration documents concerning this area have all been considered when developing the Providing a community service for shipping control operations and a aims, objectives and policies detailed in meteorological station. this plan.
The headland being a place where people can be educated about 1.2 Pukekura Values and cultural and conservation values Guiding Principles through the use of existing facilities. Pukekura has many values. Access and use of the headland is important for the With so many important and diverse public and for tourism. However, the values, it is crucial that the management most important values of Pukekura are of Pukekura provides the necessary the wildlife and their habitats and the protection for the natural and cultural cultural significance for manawhenua. values while accommodating appropriate
5 Due to the significant conservation value Recognition and protection of Wahi of this headland, native flora and fauna Tapu and Wahi Taoka. are afforded the greatest value. Therefore the protection of wildlife and Recognition of the manawhenua their habitats is of upmost concern when hapū of Ōtākou and Korako management make decisions regarding Karetai. activities and developments. Recognition of the principle of The management of Pukekura places customary access for manawhenua significant value on the cultural of Ōtākou. connections to Pukekura recognised in whakapapa traditions and customs. Agreed processes for takata whenua access to cultural material. Public access is provided to enhance public appreciation of Pukekura in a way Recognition that the headland is a which is consistent with the Pukekura significant visitor attraction for the values. Access is also essential in city and ensure appropriate public relation to shipping control. Activities on access. Pukekura relating to the historic features also require access. Protection of the heritage and archaeological features of Pukekura has an international reputation Pukekura. as a place to view wildlife and visitor activity on Pukekura contributes to To ensure good quality Dunedin's economy. interpretation which reflects all values to maximise education The Pukekura values in order of opportunities. significance are as follows: Recognition and enhancement of 1. Ecological. the scenic values of the headland.
2. Cultural. Allow for appropriate facilities and/or amenities. Recognition of 3. Historic. the importance of services for safe navigation. 4. Public Appreciation. Ensuring that waste management is 5. Tourism and Commercial. of a high standard and consistent with the cultural values. The Guiding Principles listed below have been established to ensure that all the Co-operation and collaboration with uses and important aspects concerning adjacent land owners. the management of Pukekura are recognised. 1.3 Vision for Pukekura These Guiding Principles are consistent with the conditions and restrictions Sustainable management of Pukekura is under the terms of the Ngāi Tahu Claims the result of considering the headland's Settlement Act 1998 (Schedule 116) in various uses and values and their respect to the administration and hierarchical nature. management of the nature reserve. These Guiding Principles are not listed in The priority of management to protect priority order. the various flora and fauna species native to Pukekura and their habitat Protection and enhancement of (and, if necessary, enhance and extend native flora and fauna. the habitat) ensures that Pukekura continues to be an important wildlife Enhancement and protection of location with high conservation values. landscapes and landforms.
6 Pukekura has a rich cultural landscape sound principles and to ensure that any and this history is preserved through future proposals for activities and careful management of the land and the developments meet the purpose(s) of telling of its story. the reserves.
The mana of the hapū of Korako Karetai Management plans are designed to and Ōtākou continues to be recognised identify priorities and therefore resolve through the inclusive approach to any uncertainty and potential conflict Pukekura's management. Sites of over various uses and expectations. The cultural and historical significance are needs of the key stakeholders and the respected and protected and customary public are clearly identified through their access and access to cultural material is involvement in the process of developing made possible. the Plan. Management plans therefore provide guidelines for future The importance of Pukekura and its decision-making. wildlife as Dunedin's premier wildlife visitor destination is recognised. Because of the various classifications Appropriate public access and provision and status of reserves that comprise of amenities will provide visitors with a Pukekura and the integrated quality experience of an internationally management approach to the whole recognised wildlife destination. headland, it is appropriate that this Interpretation reflects all the values of Pukekura Management Plan is both a Pukekura. reserve management plan and a conservation management plan.
1.4 Purpose of a The purpose of a reserve management Management Plan plan under the Reserves Act 1977 is to:
"Provide for and ensure the use, Where Territorial Local Authorities are enjoyment, maintenance, protection and the administering bodies of reserves preservation … and, … the development, classified under the Reserves Act 1977, as appropriate, of the reserve for the they are generally required to develop 2 purposes for which it is classified." reserve management plans . Where the (Reserves Act 1977 Section 41(3)) Department of Conservation manages reserves under the Reserves Act 1977 or The purpose of a conservation under the Wildlife Act 1953, the management plan is to: Department has the option of preparing a Conservation Management Plan as "...implement conservation management provided for in the Conservation Act strategies and establish detailed 1987. objectives for the integrated management of natural and historic Reserve Management Plans and resources within any area or areas Conservation Plans differ only in that [managed by the Department under the they are governed by different Acts and Wildlife Act 1953, ... the Reserves Act therefore there is a slightly different 1977 ... or this Act], and for recreation, process to gaining plan approval. tourism, and other conservation Management plans for reserves purposes." (Conservation Act 1987 administered by the Dunedin City Section 17E and [subsection 17E(4)]) Council are approved by the Dunedin City Council. For the nature reserve, A management plan also provides approval is from the Otago Conservation efficiency gains for management of the Board. reserve. For example, there may be no need to publicly notify or gain Ministerial The aim of a management plan is to consent for matters that have already ensure that the management and been addressed in the management plan development of the area is based on and planning process, where the compatibility of an activity with the 2 There are some exemptions, depending on the classification of a reserve.
7 overall purpose of a reserve is of activities permitted in this area. The recognised. Dunedin City District Plan also identifies archaeological sites and heritage structures at Pukekura. 1.5 Pukekura – Legal Descriptions, Section 1 SO 22583 (within the Lighthouse Reserve) has a designation Classifications and (D485) for the Meteorological Service of Zoning New Zealand Limited for 'Meteorological Purposes', ie the Taiaroa Head Weather This Pukekura Reserves Management Station. This designation is Plan applies to all the reserves listed in approximately 20m x 20m at the Trig this section which are classified under site. Designation requirements by the the Reserves Act 1977. Meteorological Service New Zealand (Decision DP27.2/17) are detailed in Under the Reserves Act 1977, all Appendix 2. reserves must be classified according to their principal or primary purpose. The All archaeological sites in New Zealand classification of a reserve is intended to are protected under the Historic Places ensure the control, management, Act (1993). An archaeological site is any development, use, maintenance and place where pre-1900 human activity preservation of the reserve for a specific has occurred and which can be purpose or purposes. investigated through archaeological methods. Pukekura is an extensive The foreshore of Pukekura is a wildlife Maori and Pakeha archaeological site, sanctuary and managed under the with all areas contained within this Wildlife Act 1953. The Nature Reserve management plan being part of this site. and most of the area of Local Purpose A Features Map showing sites of interest Reserve known as the "Lighthouse is attached as Appendix 5. Reserve" have wildlife refuge status under the Wildlife Act 1953. Taiaroa Head Nature Reserve
The classifications and legal descriptions Comprises the following legal of the reserves within this Management descriptions: Plan are described in detail in this section. Map 1 and Map 2 show the key Lot 1 DP 300145, held in CFR reserve status information overlaid on 21191 being 0.4363 hectares, the physical site. being more or less.
In the Dunedin City District Plan, Taiaroa Lot 2 DP 300145, (CFR under Head is within the 'Peninsula Coast action) being 4.83 hectares more Outstanding Landscape Area' and the or less. 'North West Peninsula Landscape Conservation Area' Landscape The total area is 5.2663 hectares. Management Areas. Landscape management rules apply to these areas The Taiaroa Head Nature Reserve is which seek to control 'principal threats' classified as a Nature Reserve under the and 'other threats' as identified in the Reserves Act 1977 and is currently District Plan. All activities not administered by the Department of specifically referred to in the Landscape Conservation. The purposes and Management Areas are classified management principles of nature according to the underlying zone of the reserves are set out in Section 20 of the land which, for Taiaroa Head, is zoned Reserves Act 1977 (refer to Appendix 1 'Rural'. for details).
In the Dunedin City District Plan, Taiaroa This area also has a wildlife refuge Head (excluding the Lighthouse Reserve) status (NZ Gazette 1938 p. 2084 is an 'Area of Significant Conservation (section 14(5) Wildlife Act 1953). Value'. This status determines the types
8
Map 1: Reserves Act 1977 Classifications
9
Map 2: Cadastral Map
10 Local Purpose Reserves Wildlife Sanctuary – Taiaroa Head Foreshore The Dunedin City Council currently administers the two Local Purpose 0.7400 hectares, more or less, being Reserves within Pukekura – known as Section 74 Block II Portobello Survey Pilots Beach Reserve and the Lighthouse District; S R 1979/164, SO Plan 18782. Reserve. Both of these reserves are Proclaimed by the Governor-General in classified as Local Purpose (wildlife Council pursuant to Section 9 of the protection, maritime safety, cultural and Wildlife Act 1953 - refer to Appendix 5 visitor facilities) under the Reserves Act for details. This Wildlife Sanctuary is 1977. currently administered by the Department of Conservation. The classification and management of a Local Purpose Reserve is set out in Sanctuary status is given to wildlife Section 23 of the Reserves Act 1977 - habitats which by their nature or that of refer to Appendix 1 for details. the wildlife found there, are very susceptible to damage or disturbance by The land above the road that accesses uncontrolled human entry. The the car park is known as the Lighthouse foreshore sanctuary at Pukekura is Reserve. intended to protect the wildlife species and their roosting or breeding sites The wildlife refuge status covering the around the shoreline boundary of the Nature Reserve also covers a section of nature reserve, by prohibiting human the Lighthouse Reserve (NZ Gazette access except under permit. 1938 p. 2084 (section 14(5) Wildlife Act 1953 applies). Wildlife Refuge Status
The two local purpose reserves comprise 8.7 hectares, more or less, covering the the following legal descriptions: nature reserve and most of the lighthouse reserve; NZ Gazette 1938 Pilots Beach Reserve: p.2084 (section 14(5) Wildlife Act 1953) – refer to Appendix 4 for details. 3.9153 hectares, more or less, being Section 72-73 Block II Refuge status is a means of signifying Portobello Survey District, held in the importance of a wildlife habitat CFR OT10C/1310 (subject to water which may not be otherwise protected. supply easement in gross in favour The wildlife refuge was declared at a of the Dunedin City Council created time when there was no other formal by Proclamation 6915 ). protection of wildlife values on the headland. Subsequent classification of Lighthouse Reserve: the reserves provides formal protection; however, the wildlife refuge status 3.4332 hectares, more or less, remains. being Sections 1, 2 and 3 SO Plan 22583, held in CFR 177143. 1.6 The Otago Peninsula 0.2430 hectares, more or less, Trust being Section 4 SO Plan 22583, held in CFR 186483 (subject to water supply easement in gross in The Otago Peninsula Trust is a favour of the Dunedin City Council registered charitable trust which was created by Proclamation 6915). formally established in 1967 to encourage the preservation and The total area is 3.6762 hectares. enhancement of the natural and historical features of the Otago Peninsula.
The Trust has two long-term leases over a significant area of reserve land at Pukekura from which it operates the
11 Royal Albatross Visitor Centre, guided (2005) is a primary planning document tours and visitor education programmes. and therefore another important The Trust also has a permit from the reference document. Department of Conservation to take tour groups into the Nature Reserve. However, there are other policy and planning documents that relate to, and With the support of the community, the affect decisions made at, Pukekura. Trust has invested several million dollars There is a need to work co-operatively in developing the visitor centre and the with other agencies that have policy and albatross viewing areas. The facilities planning documents relevant to are recognised as being of national and Pukekura. international importance.
Both the leases and the permit confer a 1.8 Ngāi Tahu Claims range of rights and obligations on the Settlement Act 1998 Trust. Many of these rights and obligations relate to management issues that are covered in this Plan, including In 1992, two claims were lodged with but not limited to: the Waitangi Council Tribunal by the successors to Korako Karetai (Korako Current and future access to, Karetai Trust) and Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou and/or use of, various buildings for the return of Pukekura (Taiaroa and structures on Pukekura. Head).
Repairs and maintenance of The outcome of this Tribunal process is buildings located on Pukekura. described in the Ngāi Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1998 (the NTCSA), which details the future vesting and Waste management. administration of areas that make up Pukekura. The eventual return of the Fencing. 'sites' of Pukekura to the Korako Karetai Weed control. Trust and Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, as detailed in the NTCSA, requires that the Given the extent to which these rights management of the individual 'sites' and obligations influence the day to day continues to be in accordance with their management of Pukekura, it is current reserve classifications under the acknowledged that the administration of Reserves Act 1977. Map 3 shows the the Management Plan will require and site areas that are referred to in the benefit from input from the Otago NTCSA. Peninsula Trust in an advisory role on matters that affect the Trust as a Under the NTCSA, the administration of significant stakeholder. all the returned land on Pukekura, which incorporates the Nature Reserve (Site 1 and 2), the Local Purpose Reserves (as offered by the Dunedin City Council – 1.7 Consideration of other Sites 3 and 4) and may include the Documents 'Taiaroa Head Foreshore' (Wildlife Sanctuary), is to be managed by a Joint Reserve management planning does not Management Body. This Joint occur in isolation as there are other Management Body will include the broader documents that guide it. In Korako Karetai Trust, Te Rūnanga o developing this Pukekura Management Ōtākou, the Department of Conservation Plan the statutory documents of the and the Dunedin City Council. administering bodies – such as the Dunedin City District Plan and the The NTCSA 1998 sets out the process for Department of Conservation; the various 'sites' to be returned to the Conservation General Policy and Otago Korako Karetai Trust and Te Rūnanga o Conservation Management Strategy - Ōtākou. were considered. The Kāi Tahu Ki Otago - Natural Resource Management Plan
12 As detailed in the NTCSA 1998, the to manage the 'sites' of Pukekura in a vesting of all sites is subject to a number consistent and integrated way. This of conditions and restrictions (provided integrated management approach in Schedule 116). However, these accommodates the existing legal conditions and restrictions do not take interests and existing legal activities of precedence over the Reserves Act 1977. the Otago Peninsula Trust.
The Korako Karetai Trust has ongoing In late 2008, the Korako Karetai Trust issues with the NTCSA which has and Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou invited the delayed its implementation. The Korako Dunedin City Council and the Karetai Trust and Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou Department of Conservation to are working to resolve some of those participate in a working party to develop issues. Because of this, the a management plan for all the land at administration remains in the meantime Pukekura. with the Department of Conservation for Site 1 and Site 2 and with the Dunedin It is recognised that whatever City Council for Site 3 and Site 4. management model exists for Pukekura in the future, the administration of the The parties to the proposed Joint Management Plan will require and benefit Management Body have agreed that from input from the Otago Peninsula although the implementation of the Trust in an advisory role on matters that settlement as described in the NTCSA affect the Trust as a significant has not yet been effected, it is desirable stakeholder.
By kind permission of the Department of Conversation
13
Map 3: Ngāi Tahu Claims Settlement Act map showing sites
14 2. Pukekura Values
2.1 Ecological Values are present, including the 'Nationally Vulnerable' Cook's scurvy grass (nau). A number of native bird species make Information compiled by botanist their home at Pukekura. The royal Dr John Barkla is included in Appendix 3: albatross colony is the only mainland Significant Native Species. colony of any albatross (toroa) species in the southern hemisphere, with a breeding Pockets of vegetation dominated by population of around 50 pairs. The indigenous species are present on height above sea level, the exposure of exposed coastal cliffs, steep slopes and the headland winds and the modification rock outcrops. Shrublands in these sites of the headland's topography and commonly have Coprosma spp vegetation during human habitation have (raurēkau), māpou, shore koromiko, helped make it a suitable nesting habitat poroporo and mountain akeake. Rocky for albatross. The presence of the colony outcrops also support a range of native at this easily accessible site has allowed grasses, particularly shore tussock, blue close study of the birds since 1938, as tussock and silver tussock (wī). well as opportunities for public viewing since 1972. Lianes and trailing plants are common within shrublands and in some cases are Other seabirds nest and feed on the spreading through the exotic grasslands. headland including Stewart Island shags Common species are bindweed (panahi), (Koau), little shags (Koau paka), spotted climbing fuchsia (kōtukutuku), shags (Koau tikitiki), sooty shearwaters pōhuehue, bush lawyer (tataramoa) and (tītī), black-backed gulls (karoro) and New Zealand spinach (kōkihi). red-billed gulls (tarāpunga), variable oystercatchers (tōrea) and royal spoonbills (kōtuku-ngutupapa). Birds 2.2 Cultural Values which do not breed on the headland, such as gannets (takapu), some species of Pukekura, located at the head of the shags (kōau), tern (tara) and petrel harbour and the extreme northern tip of species can be viewed in the skies and on the Otago Peninsula, provides a natural the seas. Little penguins (kororā) use sanctuary for both wildlife and human the headland for nesting. Yellow-eyed occupation. It is a wild and windy (hoiho) and crested penguins (tawake) headland, an ideal habitation for a variety are sometimes seen in the area. of seabirds and, in traditional times, was a foothold for new arrivals to the Otago New Zealand fur seals (kekeno) restarted Peninsula. breeding at Pukekura in the early 1980s, with over 100 pups now born at the An ancient waiata relates to the time of headland every year. New Zealand sea Māui, one of the earliest arrivals who lions (whakahao) are occasionally seen hove to under the lee of Pukekura to on Pilots Beach, while leopard seals repair his storm damaged sails. The (Rapoka) and elephant seals (ihu name Pukekura has several meanings. koropuku) are rare visitors. Given its antiquity, it is believed to have been brought from Hawaiiki, one of the In contrast to its original vegetation distant homelands. The literal cover (which is believed to have been translation of "Pukekura" is "Red Hill", coastal forest and shrubland), Pukekura which could refer to the colouration of is now dominated by herbaceous plants. the volcanic rock in outcrops around the Approximately 150 species have been headland. This red rock, in the southern recorded and there are almost as many dialect, is known as maukoroa. exotic species as there are native species. Despite the extent of Te Rae o Tupa is the rocky outcrop at the vegetation modification, several extreme northern tip of the headland that 'Threatened' and 'At Risk' plant species dips into the Pacific Ocean.
15 The first known Kai Tāhu to establish a was defeated. His son Te Pahi was settlement on the headland was Waitai, a reinstated at Pukekura by his uncle Kati Kuri chief who came south from Taoka. Te Pahi and his wife Hakuiao Kaikoura into the Kāti Māmoe-dominated (Waitaha and Kāti Māmoe) are the territory of Muaupoko (Otago Peninsula) forebears of the current day during the 17th century. Waitai and his manawhenua; that is, the hapū of Kai Te followers remained at Pukekura for a Pahi. time, aligning themselves with the local Kāti Māmoe chief Te Rakitauneke in Historical accounts during the time of raids against the resident Waitaha. Tarewai indicate that the main pā was Waitai later moved south to Mokamoka pallisaded, running from the harbour (near Bluff) where he came into conflict side of the headland at Te Rereka o with Kāti Māmoe and was eventually Tarewai to the ocean side at slain. Waiwhakaheke. The village site at the time of first European/Pakeha contact It is said that in response to the slaying was located above the southern end of of Waitai a fighting force led by Maru, Te Pilots Beach (Takiharuru). The Aparangi and their nephew Tarewai were indication is that the Pā itself may have sent south to avenge his death. They been unoccupied for some time prior to established themselves on Pukekura with European arrival. From the 1830's, it is a friendly section of the Kāti Māmoe. known that the peak of Pukekura was The natural qualities of the headland utilised by the early whalers as a lookout with its steep cliffs and often turbulent for the sighting of whales. seas, panoramic views, reliable fresh water, sheltered beach, access to Important historical events that are seafood and birds combined to make associated with Pukekura include the Pukekura an admirable pā. signing of the Treaty of Waitangi on the 13 June 1840 by the chiefs Karetai and It was not long before conflict over Korako, on board the HMS Herald while fishing grounds arose between the at anchor off Pukekura. Not long after Pukekura people and the Papanui-based that, in 1844 the lands sold by the Kāti Māmoe; a conflict in which the Ōtākou chiefs in Ōtākou (Otago) Block deeds of the brave Tarewai came to the included part of the headland Pukekura, fore and inspired the residents of which was still considered "wahi tapu", Pukekura Pā such that the hostile Kāti being of great spiritual significance to Māmoe were vanquished. Te Rereka o the hapū of Kai Te Pahi. The headland Tarewai (the leap of Tarewai) takes its since the early 1860's has been an name from this historic engagement. important maritime safety facility overlooking and guiding the endless It was during these early periods that procession of vessels plying the waters the custom of water burials at to and from Otago Harbour over that Waiwhakaheke on the seaward side of time. Pilots Beach takes its name from the headland first occur, where the the days when the pilot boats were tupapaku (dead) were lowered to the launched from there. ever turbulent sea below. Waiwhakaheke is an important spiritual The lands that remained in the site and the name is a permanent ownership of Kai Te Pahi were eventually reminder of the custom practiced there partitioned in 1868 and Crown Grants of "releasing to the sea" the ancestors. were issued to individuals. The Maori land at the headland was granted in the As time passed Moki was placed in name of Korako Karetai, son of Chief charge of Pukekura, while his close Karetai. With the passage of a series of relatives occupied the other coastal pā national security issues starting with the to the north along the Otago coast; "Russian Scare" in the late 1880s, Te Rehu at Mapoutahi, Te Wera at "proclamations" by the Crown were Huriawa and Taoka at Te Pa o Raki enacted to take, for military purposes, Hineatea. It was during this time that the land at the headland belonging to conflict arose and ultimately led to a Korako Karetai in order to complement fight among the visiting cousins at the establishment of coastal defences. Pukekura where many died and Mki II Following the end of World War II, the
16 military purpose for the reserves waned legible elements of manawhenua and eventually gave way to a heightened occupation. recognition of the wildlife values of the headland and, ultimately, tourism Northern royal albatross were sighted at opportunities. Pukekura during the 1890s. The first recorded albatross egg was laid in 1919. The failure by the Crown to recognise Each year until 1935 an egg was laid, the underlying ownership issues with the but it was removed or broken by vandals land taken by proclamation and the or collectors. In 1936, the first chick importance of Pukekura to the Ōtākou successfully hatched but failed to fledge people, led to the historic Ngāi Tahu as it was killed by a predator. Initial Treaty Settlement, making provision for protection of the albatross at Pukekura the return of the underlying ownership occurred in 1936 on a voluntary basis by of Pukekura to the hereditary owners. Dr Lance Richdale, a world recognised ornithologist, and these efforts resulted Pukekura stands as a symbol of a in the first recorded fledging success of thousand years of Maori occupation in an albatross chick from the headland in the Ōtākou region, a place imbued with 1938. Dr Richdale acknowledged the the social and religious history of a role of signalmen and lighthouse keepers people, in the form of man-made in early efforts to protect the Royal terraces, burial grounds, burial Albatross. A number of individuals and preparation areas, cultivations, store agencies have been responsible for the and living houses, fortifications, tools, protection of the royal albatross since weapons and midden. The sheer extent that time, including the New Zealand of the archaeological material found or Wildlife Service and, since 1987, the preserved at Pukekura underscores its Department of Conservation. "wahi tapu" status. The first post-European/Pakeha colonial The duty of kaitiakitanga, or the settlement structures date from 1865 reciprocal duty of recognising and and were for a Signal Station, harbour upholding the cultural values of pilots house and the lighthouse. A rock Pukekura, is central to the philosophy of sea wall was built during the 1860s and this Management Plan. 70s as part of the early pilot station which served the Otago Harbour. This seawall, within the wildlife sanctuary, is 2.3 Historic Values of considerable historic interest. More historical detail is attached in Appendix 4 Pukekura and its immediate vicinity had and a Features Map is attached as been the site of continuous Maori Appendix 5. settlement up until the 1900s. The natural defences and strategic location Coast Defence fixed installations of Pukekura, from a Maori mindset, followed in two periods; 1885 to 1920 ensured that the headland was and 1939 to 1945. The "Russian Scares" home base to many past Ōtākou chiefs of the late 1880s led to the installation and their hapū. This strong affiliation is in 1889 of an Armstrong Disappearing reflected in the rich history, tradition and Gun to guard Otago Harbour from place names that evoke memories of possible invasion. This armament was past deeds and act as reminders to the first to use the principles of hydraulic succeeding generations of their heritage. engineering to absorb and utilise the The sacredness of such footprints left by energy of its recoil. This gun is one of illustrious ancestors and remnants of few remaining example of its type in the their occupancy make what is left 'insitu' world that is both near to its original sites of wahi tapu and wahi taoka condition and is in working order. Other forever. features of the old military installations include saddle battery gun Significant loss of many archaeological emplacements and a defensive parapet sites associated with the Kai Tāhu which runs across the headland. occupation of Pukekura has occurred; th the overlay of colonial defence During the 19 Century the Marine infrastructure removing much of the Department, Harbour Board, Defence
17 Department and Justice Department all It is important for Dunedin residents to had people stationed at Pukekura. The have opportunities to experience and resident population at this time was appreciate the natural, cultural and approximately 100 and included historic values of Pukekura. members of the Karetai whānau, service men and their families and 20-30 prisoners. The community had a school, 2.5 Tourism and Commercial post office and regular church services. Values The population was boosted periodically by naval encampments. An historic small stone gaol house from the 1880s is Dunedin is famous for its outstanding also a reminder of these times. landscape, unique heritage and wildlife on the Otago Peninsula. Dunedin's key The main feature of post colonial strengths include significant wildlife historical interest for today's visitors is attractions, of which Pukekura is a key the Armstrong Disappearing Gun and attraction. The main tourist attraction at complex, providing informative displays. Pukekura is the albatross, which is also viewed from other commercial ventures off the headland (for example, water-based tourism). As stated in the 2.4 Public Appreciation Dunedin Visitor Strategy 2008–2015, Values tourism will play an increasingly important part in the Dunedin economy. Public appreciation of Pukekura is linked with the natural environment – The Otago Peninsula Trust has, on a outstanding landscape, abundance of day-to-day basis, undertaken the wildlife and views of the coastline and management of large numbers of ocean. The character of Pukekura and visitors. The Otago Peninsula Trust is a the level of use in this area has changed charitable trust whose objectives significantly in the last 50 or so years. include: Pilots Beach (and the area behind the beach) was, up until the latter half of the The stimulation of public interest 20th Century, a popular recreational area and care for the beauty, history for Peninsula and Dunedin residents. and character of Otago Peninsula.
Over time, management of the headland The preservation of the natural has increasingly placed priority on attractions of the Otago Peninsula protecting native species and habitat. and the protection of the flora and This deliberate management has fauna of the Otago Peninsula. increased the presence and abundance of wildlife. However, methods to protect The development of tourist species that are vulnerable to human attractions, public and recreational disturbance have resulted in restricted services on the Otago Peninsula so public access and thus reduced spaces that the public may obtain the available for general public access. maximum use or enjoyment of the area in a way that will not detract Dunedin residents and visitors are from or destroy its beauty or attracted to the area because of the character. dynamic nature of the environs, the seasonal variation of wildlife and the Over the years, developments relating to coastal ambience. Public amenities and tourism on the headland, including the facilities and land outside restricted Royal Albatross Centre, have increased areas are used by both visitors and in order to cater for the larger visitor tourists alike. Public use and numbers. The visitor centre provides a appreciation is relatively passive; visiting base for guided tours and offers the lookouts and walking around areas education programmes and informative accessible to the general public. displays on wildlife and the history of Pukekura is also a popular scenic drive Pukekura, including live video coverage or cycling destination. of the nesting areas.
18 Visitor numbers to Pukekura have southern point "Te Rerenga o Tarewai", increased from 200 in 1972, when the across to its coastal edge "Te colony was first opened for public Waiwhakaheke Tupapaku" and on up to viewing, up to between approximately the crest "Pukekura", it represents a 37,500 and 47,700 visitors per year cultural landscape to manawhenua. taking guided tours from 2003 to 2010. However, these numbers do not take Today the landscape is a mix of natural into account the significant number of elements and man-made features visitors to Pukekura who do not take reflecting some of its past and present guided tours. It is understood that the uses. The headland was modified for total number of visitors to Pukekura is, farming and military activities. The in fact, in the region of 160,000 per remaining military features provide us year. with an appreciation of a bygone era and an insight into the defence technologies Visitors taking a guided tour can view of the time. The lighthouse adds the albatross nesting colony and/or the interest to the coastal scene and is an Armstrong Disappearing Gun installation. easily identifiable feature along the Those choosing not to take a guided tour Dunedin coast. can explore the visitor centre, look at other wildlife and, if fortunate, will see The natural wildness is key to its albatross flying around the headland. attraction for viewing wildlife in natural The social history of Pukekura is also of surroundings. The stark landscape interest to many visitors. seems to be a fitting home for majestic birds and other wildlife adapted to the Viewing areas, facilities and provision of harsh southern environment. interpretation for visitors are important. The viewing platform overlooking The headland is an excellent vantage Waiwakaheke Bay and the fur seals and point for panoramic scenic views little penguins at Pilots Beach are key northwards along the coast and wildlife viewing opportunities. westwards up the harbour. Pukekura can also be seen by road travellers on the Otago Peninsula and the northern 2.6 Landscape Values coast.
Pukekura presides over the entrance to The outstanding landscape value of Otago Harbour, standing as a sentinel to Pukekura is currently recognised in the all who pass by sea or travel to it by Dunedin City District Plan. Taiaroa Head land; a commanding promontory, (as Pukekura is known in the Dunedin buffeted by wind and sea, a sanctuary to City District Plan) is within the 'Peninsula wildlife, stronghold to Maori and Coast Outstanding Landscape Area' and guardian to the life blood of Otago, the the 'North West Peninsula Landscape shipping channel. From its northern Conservation Area' Landscape extremity at "Te Rae o Tupa", to its Management Areas.
19 3. Management of Pukekura
Recognising the cultural connections of Pukekura Management Group is Pukekura for manawhenua and the advisory, being partners in the principles behind of the Ngāi Tahu interpretation and application of this Claims Settlement Act 1998 (the Management Plan and thus guiding NTCSA), the Korako Karetai Trust, Te decision making. Rūnanga o Ōtākou, the Department of Conservation and the Dunedin City To further progress the integrated Council have partnered in the planning management of Pukekura, the four processes and management of parties may seek to have the Minister of Pukekura. Conservation establish a Board to control and manage Pukekura and to thus be To provide a framework for this, the responsible for making many of the parties have prepared this Management statutory decisions under the Reserves Plan for Pukekura. This Management Act 1977. Plan will provide clear management guidance to the present administering For the purposes of this Plan, the term bodies. The development of this Plan 'Pukekura Management' is used to embodies the work and relationship define/refer to the advisory Pukekura between the four parties. Management group and, when applicable, its successor − a The Department of Conservation and the management board or a joint Dunedin City Council (as the current management group. administrating bodies) are, at present, responsible for making statutory There are many policies throughout this decisions under the relevant Acts. Management Plan that involve undertaking specific actions. However, However, the establishment of a Pukekura management consider the Pukekura Management Group, policy issues in Table 1 below to be comprised of representatives of the four immediate or short-term implementation parties, will ensure that management of priorities. Pukekura is inclusive. The role of this
20 Table 1
Priorities Details Establishment of the Management Group. Management Agreement. Terms of reference. Communications Plan between Parties. Legal status of group. Establishment of Protocols and Assessment Assist with applications for use on Criteria. Pukekura. Management and approvals for authorities requested and granted. Development of a Sustainable Water Review of existing water easement. Management Plan. Determine current capacity. Development of a Sustainable Waste Reviewing the waste issues. Management Plan. Implement a plan to meet the values. Review of legal road alignments and Harington Point Road. parking issues. Tarewai Road. Resolution of parking safety and capacity issues at the Royal Albatross Visitor Centre Carpark, including ensuring that the existing right of way is not obstructed. Development of secondary plans. Pest animal control programme. Vegetation management plan. Signage and interpretive plan. Fire and emergency plan. Confirming ownership and maintenance of Develop a plan of existing ownership all buildings. and obligations. Establish future ownership tenure consistent with the values. Review the legal rights and obligations To ensure that all authorities comply contained within all existing authorities with the aims, objectives and policies of including leases, licence and permits. this Management Plan.
By kind permission of the Department of Conversation
21 4. Aims, Objectives and Policies
The aims, objectives and policies within benefits and to minimise adverse this Management Plan have been impacts. prepared in terms of the relevant legislation (refer to Section 1.4), the Management Policies Pukekura Values and Guiding Principles and other relevant guiding documents The policies become the means by which listed in Appendix 3. objectives are achieved – ie how to implement the objectives. Over time, as Individual objectives and policies should certain specific objectives are attained or not be read in isolation. To gain a require change, relevant policies will also comprehensive understanding, it is be amended. The policies guide all necessary to consider them within the future aspects of Pukekura and provide context of the whole plan. They must be the framework for continuity of implemented and applied with the values management. and with all the plan's objectives and policies. 4.1 Flora and Fauna and Management Aims Habitat Management
The aims of this Management Plan represent the long-term vision for 4.1.1 Native Fauna and Habitat Pukekura. Management aims Management complement the Pukekura Guiding Principles. The Guiding Principles Aims: identify all the uses and important aspects of the management of Pukekura. 1. Specific native fauna are protected and their habitats are enhanced Management aims provide a framework through appropriate protection, within which any future proposals for enhancement and intervention. development/enhancement, or any other form of action which may impact on 2. Specific native fauna are protected Pukekura, can be considered. at this site to maximise the contribution made to self-sustaining The aims of this Management Plan regional (or national) populations reflect the expectations for the future from the site. management of Pukekura. Aims are written as statements of outcome, so 3. Ecosystems are restored to protect that they can be used as a benchmark significant biota and their habitats against which progress can be assessed. to achieve the above aims.
Management Objectives The protection of native wildlife, particularly the albatross, and the The objectives of this Management Plan enhancement of their habitats is one of specify the means necessary to achieve the key aims in the management of the aims. 'Objectives' explain what the Pukekura. Native wildlife are protected management intends to do. They are under the provisions of the Wildlife Act oriented towards action and provide the 1953 and the Reserves Act 1977. A full basis for developing specific policies on list of existing native wildlife is provided matters that management will likely in Appendix 3. need to address. Initial protection of the albatross at The objectives are used to assess the Pukekura occurred in 1937-38 on a suitability of all activities and to identify voluntary basis by Dr Lance Richdale. the controls required to maximise Since this time a number of individuals and agencies have been responsible for
22 the protection of the royal albatross Objectives: including the New Zealand Wildlife Service and the Department of 1. To manage native wildlife species, Conservation. particularly the albatross and other ground nesting seabirds, within the Since its inception in 1987, the reserves, to maximise their Department of Conservation has breeding success. undertaken an active programme of intervention to assist and increase the 2. To manage ecosystems to protect success of albatross breeding at significant biota and their habitats Pukekura. in conjunction with the management of native wildlife This programme to increase breeding species in Objective 1. success of the albatross includes manipulation of eggs, chicks and adults Policies: and the use of foster nests, incubators, supplementary feeding and pest control. 1. Priority will be given to the To maintain the current rates of conservation management of the population increase of this colony, it is albatross, followed by other considered important that this regionally significant native programme continues into the future. At species. some point in time the colony may reach a size where the current intensive 2. Information about the status of management is not deemed necessary; native wildlife species and their however, this is expected to be at least habitats can be made publically several decades away. available as is deemed appropriate.
Research and observation has indicated 3. To prepare an ecosystem that albatross are sensitive to changes in enhancement plan if considered their habitat and may be affected by the necessary to meet Aims 1 and 2 presence of visitors. The birds' above. responses to habitat degradation or disturbance may include ceasing to nest in the reserves, smaller numbers of 4.1.2 Management of Flora nests, moving to less favourable nesting habitats in the reserves and/or having Aims: less success in raising their young. For these risks to be best managed, an 1. Native and exotic flora are actively approach which is both proactive in managed to protect and enhance maximising habitat conditions overall the Pukekura values. and precautionary in minimising disturbance is considered appropriate. 2. Specific native plant species are protected at this site to maximise It is important to acknowledge that the contribution made to wildlife (including albatross) do not self-sustaining regional (or recognise statutory boundaries. The national) populations from the site. boundary between the nature reserve (where protection and preservation of The vegetation at Pukekura has been native species is primary) and the extensively modified over time. It is adjacent local purpose reserve (where a likely that the natural cover consisted of number of different aims, including shrubland and tussock, with some forest wildlife protection, are to be achieved) species, rather than the exotic grasses does not influence them. Native that predominate today. Some seabirds and other species will continue resurgence of silver tussock has occurred to select breeding and nesting sites at since the military occupation ceased in Pukekura according to their own needs. the 1950s. Some planting of native This may include areas that are used by species have been carried out at specific other species, or by people. sites in recent years. A list of threatened and at-risk native plant species is provided in Appendix 3.
23 Vegetation provides nesting material and when practicable and when this shelter for some species of the native does not impact on the success of wildlife present, but it may also shelter the albatross. predators. Any future planting should take into consideration the habitat 3. Changes to vegetation will have requirements of all native wildlife species regard to the Pukekura values, present, enhance the landscape and be including: the protection and sensitive to any archaeological, cultural enhancement of native flora and and historical values. The planting of fauna and their habitats, the suitable native species adjacent to protection and conservation of facilities, structures and land boundaries archaeological, cultural and may be appropriate to minimise their historical sites and the use of local impact on the landscape. Security indigenous plant species and the fences can also be made less obtrusive affect on the landscape. The New by way of screen planting. Vegetation Zealand Historic Places Trust will can also be used to mitigate human be consulted prior to the disturbance on the Pukekura values, commencement of any planting including being used to manage public programmes. access to vulnerable sites.
Appropriate planning will be required to 4.1.3 Pest Animal Control ensure that any removal of vegetation or planting programme does not Aim: compromise the Pukekura values. In particular, care needs to be taken to 1. Pest animals are controlled to ensure that archaeological remains are protect and enhance the Pukekura not disturbed. values.
Control of some plant species may be The control of pest animals has been required to ensure that these species do ongoing at Pukekura for many years. It not encroach upon areas of native is likely that the rich variety and vegetation or spread to other areas increasing numbers of native wildlife, where their control is difficult. particularly seabirds, in the reserves is a direct result of this sustained control Objectives: programme. Control programmes have become more widespread, sophisticated 1. To manage vegetation type and and effective. To be effective, predator cover within the reserve to ensure control needs to be ongoing and should that the habitats of native flora not be confined to Pukekura. The and fauna are protected and inclusion of control on adjacent land is enhanced. considered an integral part of the success of this predator control programme. 2. To manage known populations of any regionally or nationally Introduced mammals have been recorded significant flora within the within the nature reserve and some of reserves. these are known to be predators of birds or their eggs. Fencing borders the nature 3. To ensure the Pukekura values are reserve and lighthouse surrounds. When protected and enhanced through originally erected, this fence was management of vegetation designed to exclude people, stock and (including pest plants). dogs. It has since been modified to exclude rabbits; however, it is not a Policies: barrier for smaller pest animals such as rats and mustelids. 1. To develop a comprehensive vegetation management plan. Hatching eggs and young chicks of albatross are susceptible to fly strike and 2. Significant native flora values will therefore flies are managed during critical be protected and enhanced times. (including remnant vegetation)
24 Several pest species in the Otago region While coastal water quality management require a regulatory response through the and marine pollution responses are Otago Otago Regional Council's Pest Regional Council functions, there are a Management Strategy. Under the Pest number of considerations that can be Strategy, land occupiers are to control taken by the Pukekura management to the pest animals listed in the Strategy work towards maintaining and improving on their properties. There are also the quality of the coastal habitats at Otago Peninsula community initiatives Pukekura. for pest animal control that relate to Pukekura. The Taiaroa Head Wildlife Sanctuary is adjacent to the nature reserve and Objective: forms a ten metre buffer public exclusion zone to protect and maintain the values 1. To ensure that pest animals are of Pukekura. The regulations of the controlled as appropriate to protect Wildlife Sanctuary were established to the Pukekura values. reduce the risk of illegal entry into Pukekura. Policies: Water craft are not legally permitted in 1. Pest animals will be controlled to this ten metre buffer zone. In addition, enhance the Pukekura values due to the potential disturbance to including, if necessary, the wildlife, kayakers and users of other establishment of predator-proof water craft will be discouraged from fencing. landing or launching at Pilots Beach.
2. To develop a comprehensive pest If deemed necessary to avoid wildlife animal control programme if disturbance, commercial and considered necessary. recreational boat operators will be approached regarding the buffer zone. 3. To work with adjacent landowners to coordinate pest animal control, Access to and use of the coastal zone to achieve greater affect and must be in accordance with other establish adequate buffer zones. statutory legislation and relevant policy.
4. Dogs are not permitted on any part The Otago Regional Council has an Otago of Pukekura unless authorised Regional Marine Oil Spill Contingency Plan under Dunedin City Council bylaws which includes the area around Pukekura. and/or as permitted by the Conservation Act 1987. Objective:
1. To ensure that adequate 4.1.4 Coastal Zone safeguards and restrictions are in place to protect the Pukekura Aim: values.
1. The coastal zone surrounding Policies: Pukekura protects the Pukekura values. 1. The legal status of the Wildlife Sanctuary should be retained. The sea surrounding Pukekura provides food resources for many of the wildlife 2. To advocate that the Wildlife species present and is integral to the bird Sanctuary is respected to reduce and marine mammal habitats. Marine the risk of disturbance to wildlife. pollutants could originate from a number To educate the public to be aware of sources, including disposal of sewage of marine pollution, particularly waste, marine pollution events and spills the risks of an oil or hazardous of toxins or pollutants and dumping of substance spill and to notify as a solid waste and harbour dredging. first response the Otago Regional Council.
25 3. To discourage water craft from This Management Plan assists the landing or launching at Pilots kaitiaki duty of reciprocity to manage Beach. the headland sustainably for now and for future generations and to ensure all who work on, visit or manage the headland 4.1.5 Aircraft will add to, rather than detract from, the headland's many environmental, cultural Aim: and human values.
1. Native fauna on Pukekura are not It is essential that access to the disturbed by aircraft. headland and to places of traditional importance for Manawhenua is provided The Civil Aviation Authority of New for and that all interpretation of the Zealand (CAA) manages the airspace headland reflects the traditions and restriction (NZR 905, Taiaroa Head, connection of Kai Tāhu to Pukekura. Otago Coast) over Pukekura. Aircraft are restricted from flying below a height The engagement of manawhenua with of 2000 feet above mean sea level within the headland is more than visitation, a radius of 0.54 nautical miles more than remembrances and more (1 kilometre) from the headland. than participation in the management of the headland, but does encapsulate the Objective: right of physical access and management and, where appropriate, 1. To ensure that adequate use of cultural materials. safeguards and restrictions remain in place to minimise disturbance to Economic activity at the headland is albatross. acceptable where it embraces and promotes the cultural connection of Policy: manawhenua to Pukekura.
1. Advocate for the retention of the Manawhenua shall continue to pursue a existing airspace restriction. co-operative approach to the management of and participation in the cultural, spiritual, environmental and 4.2 Manawhenua economic affairs of Pukekura.
Aim: Objective:
1. The use, management and 1. That all activity on the headland is enhancement of Pukekura is consistent with Pukekura being a consistent with its status as a taoka place of spiritual importance and to the whānau and hapū who identity to Manawhenua. associate with the headland. Policies: The headland is an important cultural landscape of connection for whānau and 1. That the connection of hapū. This linkage is underpinned in the Manawhenua to Pukekura is memory archive of the hapū by tradition, recognised and provided for waiata, whakataukī, place-names, burial through protocols that permit: sites, waka landing, mahika kai, access to fishing resources and archaeological a) Physical access to all parts of remnants. the headland.
While much physical change has b) Use and management of occurred to the headland in the last 150 cultural materials. years and many visible signs of the habitations of the tupuna have been c) Input to all interpretation built over, the spiritual and physical depicting Manawhenua association remains strong. history and associations with the headland.
26 2. That all activity that has the All of the historical structures on potential to disturb the soil or Pukekura are post European settlement surface area of the headland and mainly relate to the strategic requires an archaeological permit. position of Pukekura at the Otago Harbour entrance for defence purposes. 3. That all archaeological finds at the A number of gun batteries still exist, headland are notified to including the Lighthouse Battery with the Manawhenua. restored Disappearing Gun. More historical detail is attached in Appendix 4 4. The use of Pukekura should not and a Features Map is attached as negatively impact on the Pukekura Appendix 5. A conservation plan for the values. restoration of the Saddle Battery has been developed by Wellington-based conservation architect Ian Bowman. 4.3 Archaeological, Cultural and Historical Approval must be sought from all the appropriate authorities before any site or Management structure on Pukekura is modified, damaged, or destroyed and for any Aim: ground disturbance works. Because the entire land area of Pukekura Pa is an 1. To ensure the entire Pukekura archaeological site, it is a statutory headland, as an extensive responsibility of all parties planning any archaeological, cultural and ground disturbance work in this area to historical site, is protected and undertake archaeological assessments conserved and recognises the and obtain archaeological authority from significance of wahi tapu and wahi the New Zealand Historic Places Trust. toaka for manawhenua. The Protected Objects Act 1975 Pukekura is steeped in history and as a regulates, among a number of things, result there are many sites and the sale, trade and ownership of taoka structures of not only archaeological and tuturu. Under this Act all taoka tuturu historical importance, but also of found are Crown-owned in the first significant cultural value to instance, in order to allow claims for manawhenua. ownership to be heard through the Maori Land Court. The 'Pukekura Pā' is listed as a Category II historic place on the New Zealand Objectives: Historic Places Trust (NZHPT) Register. The NZHPT are reviewing the Pukekura 1. To protect or conserve Pā registration to ensure that the archaeological, historical and boundaries accurately reflect the extent cultural sites and structures to the of occupation by, and significance to, extent that is consistent with the mana whenua. This will encompass all Pukekura values. the reserves that make up Pukekura. The objectives and policies within this 2. To develop a comprehensive Management Plan reflect that the historical and cultural archive. boundaries of the Pā will be redefined. 3. Wahi tapu and wahi taoka are Many specific historical sites and protected in a culturally structures on Pukekura are known and appropriate manner. separately recorded on the New Zealand Archaeological Association Site 4. That manawhenua have kaitiaki Recording Scheme and/or registered by over cultural material subject to the NZHPT and included on the Dunedin the Pukekura values. City District Plan schedule. Due to the extensive historic occupation of this headland there are likely to be sites and items that remain undiscovered to date.
27 Policies: 4.4 Visitor and Commercial Use 1. To support the protection or conservation of archaeological, cultural and historical sites and 4.4.1 Public Appreciation and structures where compatible with Commercial Use the Pukekura values. Aims: 2. All proposals to modify or damage a site or structure, or any ground 1. The public can appreciate and learn disturbance works, requires the about the ecological, cultural and appropriate approvals, and historic values of Pukekura. applications may require preparation of a conservation plan 2. Commercial and recreational use of and must include potential effects Pukekura is compatible with the of the proposed activity on the Pukekura values. Pukekura values and actions to take to avoid, remedy or mitigate 3. The positive contribution of visitor any adverse effects. activity on Pukekura to Dunedin's economy is recognised. 3. Manawhenua are recognised as the guardians of all taoka tuturu as Pukekura has an international reputation required under the Protected as a place to view wildlife. However, its Objects Act 1975. continuing popularity for visitors depends on the protection of wildlife and 4. To recognise manawhenua their habitat in the long-term. Managed kaitiakitaka over archaeological in the correct way, tourism and the sites and any artefacts originally other values of Pukekura are compatible. belonging to Pukekura that are unearthed or located.
28 The wildlife viewing and education modify, aspects of use to ensure that the opportunities at Pukekura draw a large Pukekura values are protected. 14 years number of visitors to the headland each is also considered sufficient time for year. Visitors are able to learn about commercial operators to benefit from the native flora and fauna and the their investments. However, in special history of Pukekura during organised circumstances, authorities may be tours and from interpretative materials granted for a longer period as provided available in the Royal Albatross Centre. for under the empowering legislation (the Reserves Act 1977 and the Opportunities to view wildlife on Conservation Act 1987). Pukekura include the cliff-top viewing area, Pilots Beach Reserve and the To ensure that management will not be visitor centre (where there are video and burdened with responsibilities and live feed images and interpretative expenses that are directly related to displays). Viewing of the albatross public use, all authority holders must nesting colony and the Armstrong cover all costs related to their authority Disappearing Gun are accessible to including any other costs associated with visitors taking commercial tours. their use of Pukekura (eg, monitoring and contribution to general visitor The number of visitors taking tours provision). through the Royal Albatross Centre has fluctuated between approximately Reporting is a requirement for all 37,500 and 47,700 visitors per year organisations with authorities granted from 2003 to 2010. for Pukekura. This enables Pukekura Management to have a complete Commercial use is a major aspect of understanding of commercial activity on Pukekura and significantly contributes to the headland. This information will be promoting the ecological and historical used by management to monitor use values of the headland. To ensure that and its effects on Pukekura to ensure all the Pukekura values are protected in that Pukekura values are protected. In the long-term, the type and amount of addition, reporting provides Pukekura public and commercial use must be Management with the opportunity to managed. There is an upper limit request additional information. Specific (capacity) of public and commercial use reporting requirements will not be that Pukekura can sustain before there unilaterally imposed on any organisation are negative effects on the Pukekura with authorities to operate on Pukekura, values. The Conservation Act 1987 but would be included as a condition of requires that an assessment of any new authorities issued or by cumulative effects be undertaken as part agreement. of the application process for certain types of authorities (concessions). While public access is generally Preference to commercial operators encouraged, this needs to be balanced using Pukekura will be given to those against any potential adverse impacts. who enhance the Pukekura Values. The approach to encouraging appropriate behaviour has been to Commercial activities include commercial advise and educate the public and filming and photography. commercial operators through signage and details within the authorities Pukekura management considers it granted. important to have a good relationship with commercial operators. This is to be Attracting visitors to Pukekura also has achieved through all parties the potential to affect access to, or the communicating effectively and with a operation of, local landowners. It is 'no surprises' approach. important to manage the Reserves to ensure that the public respect the An authority to undertake commercial private property rights of neighbours. activities on Pukekura, if approved, will be granted for a period of no more than 14 years. This will enable Pukekura management to review and if necessary,
29 Objectives: authority and other requirements related to their use. 1. To encourage public appreciation 5. Any authority granted after this and enjoyment of the ecological, Plan becomes operative, in general, cultural and historic values of will be for a period not exceeding Pukekura to an extent that does 14 years. not negatively affect the Pukekura values. 6. All organisations with authorities for Pukekura are required to submit 2. To ensure all commercial operators an annual report. have the appropriate authority to undertake commercial activities. 7. Any groups using Pukekura are required to independently gain all 3. To ensure all organisations that relevant statutory authorities occupy a building have an (licences etc) necessary to appropriate authority to do so. undertake their activities.
4. To ensure authority holders meet 8. To encourage effective all costs associated with and communication between Pukekura resulting from their activities management and authority (including monitoring of impacts, holders. changes and contribution to general provisions). 4.4.2 Signage and Interpretation 5. That economic activity contributes to Dunedin's economy and the Aim: management of Pukekura. 1. Signage and interpretation material Policies: will be designed to enhance visitors' appreciation of the Pukekura 1. To monitor the effects of public and values. commercial use on the Pukekura values and, if deemed necessary, Interpretative material can enhance determine the capacity of such use visitors' appreciation and enjoyment of and establish an upper limit, Pukekura by increasing their including necessary restrictions. understanding of its many values. Signage also aids visitor management. 2. All proposals to develop activities or structures for recreation, tourism Signs should be obvious to the visitor, or other commercial ventures but at the same time should not be require the appropriate approvals, obtrusive or detract from the landscape. and applications must demonstrate The standard of signage (interpretative that they add to the public content and presentation) will reflect that enjoyment and appreciation of Pukekura is a site of international Pukekura and include potential significance. effects of the proposed activity on the Pukekura values and actions to Interpretative material both onsite (by take to avoid, remedy or mitigate Pukekura management or authority any adverse effects. holders) and offsite (by authority holders or other organisations) should reflect all 3. All proposals will be assessed the Pukekura values. To ensure the against other policies within this accuracy of information presented, Management Plan and the Pukekura management considers it Pukekura values. important that it has the opportunity to review all draft material containing 4. All commercial activities (including information on Pukekura. use of buildings) require authorisation and may be required to pay an appropriate fee and/or meet costs associated with the
30 Objective: negatively impact on visitors' experience, access is often restricted to 1. Signage and interpretative material the areas used for tours, outside the is provided for visitor information, tour schedule. Authority to access areas education and management and is with restricted public access is assessed consistent with protecting or according to the benefits and the enhancing the Pukekura values. likelihood of disturbance to wildlife, which includes seasonal considerations. Policies: Strict criteria apply for entry into the fenced area of the Nature Reserve, 1. The use of signs will be kept to a lighthouse surrounds and Wildlife minimum. Sanctuary.
2. A signage and interpretation plan Authority for commercial filming and will be considered if necessary. photography will attract a fee.
3. Any onsite signage or interpretative Objectives: material will be consistent with the Pukekura values and require the 1. That filming/photography promotes appropriate approvals, and and does not negatively impact applications must include potential upon the Pukekura values. effects of the proposed activity on the Pukekura values and actions to Policies: take to avoid, remedy or mitigate any adverse effects. 1. Filming or photography within the Nature Reserve will be strictly 4. To advocate that Pukekura controlled. management has the opportunity to review and sign-off offsite 2. Filming or photography on interpretative material relating to Pukekura will be considered against Pukekura. their compatibility with the Pukekura values.
4.4.3 Filming and Photography 3. All proposals require the appropriate approvals and Aim: applications must include potential effects of the proposed activity on 1. That all filming and photography on the Pukekura values and actions to Pukekura is compatible with, and take to avoid, remedy or mitigate promotes, the Pukekura values. any adverse effects.
There are many requests to use 4. Copies of commercial film and Pukekura for filming both from New photographs may be required to Zealand and international interests. archive for monitoring of habitat Some requests relate to the coastal changes, erosion, etc. location of Pukekura and the lighthouse as part of this landscape. Other 5. A fee will apply to all applications requests are specifically to film native for filming or photography, unless fauna and flora, including the albatross. an exemption is granted by Pukekura management. Visitors will continue to be guided by their tour operators on appropriate filming and photography during their 4.4.4 Research tour. Commercial film crews and photographers are sometimes permitted Aim: to use Pukekura if it contributes to the enhancement of the Pukekura values. 1. Research will increase the knowledge and appreciation of the Because these activities have the Pukekura values. potential to disturb wildlife and to
31 Ongoing research on Pukekura is 4.5 Protection of Landscape essential to ensure sufficient information is available to further understand the Aim: Pukekura values and to help management make informed decisions. 1. Landscape values (which include Ongoing wildlife research helps ensure landmark features, cultural and that management decisions contribute to historic associations and the the conservation of native flora and fauna aesthetics of the coastal in the long-term. environment) are protected.
Other types of research that could occur The Otago Peninsula has significant include onsite research of archaeological, landscape values and Pukekura, as the cultural or historical sites or structures, headland and defining the entrance to public use/commercial use management, the Otago Harbour, is a major landmark or how these aspects interrelate. It is feature. Pukekura is a significant likely that future research will be cultural landscape for Kai Tāhu. The required to determine the capacity for profile of the headland and historic public and commercial use of Pukekura structures such as the lighthouse and to ensure the Pukekura values are defence remnants reflect the strong protected. cultural heritage and history of Pukekura and are important visual features. Applicants requesting to undertake research must demonstrate how it will The Otago Peninsula has an international contribute to the understanding of reputation as a location to view wildlife, Pukekura or how it will assist of which Pukekura is a key attraction. management. High public use can place pressure on visitor facilities and such developments Objectives: have the potential to impact on the landscape values. 1. To encourage appropriate research to be carried out on Pukekura to It is important that any developments on inform management and increase Pukekura are sympathetic to the the understanding of the Pukekura topography and the character of the values. landscape. This includes the effect of buildings, signs, tracks, fencing, hard 2. To encourage on-site research surfacing and plantings on the projects that do not negatively landscape. It must be recognised that impact on the Pukekura values. the landscape value of Pukekura also includes the views of the headland from Policies: the west harbour area, the northern coast and from sea. 1. All proposals require the appropriate approvals and Views and vistas on Pukekura are visual applications must demonstrate that amenities and it is important for public the research will complement and appreciation that these are maintained add to the understanding of the or enhanced. Pukekura values, have no immediate or long-term negative It is important to consider the condition impacts on native wildlife of the Pilots Beach dune area as this populations and habitats and could potentially impact on the Pukekura include potential effects of the values. It is therefore important that all proposed activity on the Pukekura decisions made in respect of the marine values and actions to take to area adjoining Pilots Beach (both by avoid, remedy or mitigate any Pukekura management and other adverse effects. organisations) take account of the need to mitigate any negative impacts on the 2. Approvals may be conditional on Pilots Beach dune area. the research findings being presented to, and available for use by, Pukekura management.
32 Conserving important landscape Policies: characteristics and associated amenity values is also an aim of the Dunedin City 1. Developments should be District Plan. The District Plan has sympathetic with the landmark specific rules for particular landscape features and profile of Pukekura areas which regulate developments. that are part of its cultural Therefore any development on Pukekura heritage. (Taiaroa Head) is also directed by the detail in the District Plan. 2. The visual impact of new developments or existing provision Objectives: including hard surfacing, buildings and fencing should be minimised. 1. To protect or enhance the landscape values of Pukekura 3. Proposals for new developments or through appropriate management. changes to existing provision must demonstrate that the effect on 2. To protect the existing profile of landscape values and visual Pukekura, including landmark amenities has been considered. features that are part of its cultural heritage. 4. To advocate that where human activities or natural changes 3. To advocate that measures are outside the Pukekura management taken to avoid/remedy or mitigate boundaries are likely to have a any adverse effects to Pilots negative effect on the Pukekura Beach. values (including below high water), these adverse effects be mitigated.
By kind permission of the Otago Peninsula Trust
33 4.6 Operational Management and there is no public toilet provision on Pukekura after the visitor centre closes. 4.6.1 Access Objective: Aim: 1. To manage access as appropriate 1. Access into and through the and where compatible with the reserves is in accordance with the Pukekura values. Pukekura values. Policies: Managing access within Pukekura is a key factor in successfully protecting the 1. Public access will be managed in headland's many values. It is considered accordance with the Pukekura that uncontrolled public access to values as follows: sensitive areas could negatively impact on the Pukekura values. Therefore public Public access is generally supported access is restricted in certain areas to but will be monitored to ensure the protect Pukekura values, while in other Pukekura values are protected. areas the public have unrestricted access. a) Public pedestrian access to Continuing customary access to sites of Pilots Beach is available when wahi tapu and wahi taoka is very organised tours are not in important in recognising the cultural operation. Public access will significance of Pukekura to manawhenua. be appropriately managed at This right is facilitated through the penguin nesting areas. Korako Karetai Trust and the Ōtākou Rūnanga. Such access includes the b) Vehicle access to Pilots Beach annual visit into the nature reserve for is for emergency vehicles and manawhenua, activities as part of a upon request to provide for wānaka and for historical relevance. disabled access only.
Access is required to the signal station c) General public access to this and lighthouse areas to maintain area is only possible as part equipment for marine navigation and of an authorised tour to the related maritime safety services and to following areas: areas of local maintain the existing meteorological purpose reserve to the north station. of the parapet wall; signal station and surrounds, Under the Reserves Act 1977 a permit is between the rear of the required for access to the nature reserve. visitor centre and the Commercial tours to the Richdale boundary of the nature Observatory, the Disappearing Gun and reserve. the observation point are authorised under such a permit and concession. d) Access to the nature reserve, wildlife sanctuary and It may be necessary to further restrict lighthouse and surrounds will public access to minimise impact on the be by an authority granted Pukekura values. Other authorities may and subject to strict criteria. be investigated for tourism industry activities which have an effect on 2. Ensure manawhenua access to Pukekura. sites of wahi tapu and wahi taoka is continued. Overnight camping (tents/campervans/ vans) is not permitted as it may 3. Management and operational negatively impact on the Pukekura access is available when values, including wildlife and appropriate. infrastructure. Such activity poses a potential fire risk. In addition, many 4. Camping is not permitted. vehicles do not have self-contained toilets
34 4.6.2 Fencing Policies:
Aims: 1. To review the appropriateness and effectiveness of existing fences and 1. Fencing is kept to a minimum yet the need for new fences. allows for effective management and ensures the Pukekura values 2. If deemed necessary, fences will be are protected. relocated to minimise human disturbance to nesting albatross Fences are required on Pukekura to help and other species requiring such manage public access to control public protection. access into the nature reserve and the lighthouse and surrounds as well as other 3. All organisations proposing to areas sensitive to human disturbance. undertake fencing require the The fencing which borders the nature appropriate approvals, and reserve and lighthouse surrounds was applications must include potential likely designed (and since been modified) effects of the proposed activity on to exclude people, domestic animals and the Pukekura values and actions to some pests. take to avoid, remedy or mitigate any adverse effects. In the future this fencing may need to be moved to ensure minimum human 4. Any proposal to establish new disturbance to nesting albatross and fences must consider Section 4.3 - other flora and fauna. Although the area Archaeological, Cultural and available for albatross nesting sites is Historical Management. not yet near capacity, nest site selection or future increases in demand may mean albatross and other birds nest close to or 4.6.3 Buildings and Structures even outside of the existing 'permit only' fenced area. Aim:
Fences also have a public safety role, 1. Buildings and structures in the namely at lookout points next to cliff reserves are appropriately edges. Fencing also prevents the chance designed, located and used in a of any wandering stock accessing way that enhances the Pukekura sensitive areas. values.
A review of fencing will assess the There are a number of buildings and relocation or removal of fences. structures on Pukekura. They range Consideration will also be given to the from historical structures to modern need for predator/pest proofing, wildlife buildings such as the Royal Albatross management, sensitivity to wahi tapu Centre. Buildings and structures on and wahi taoka, design and type of Pukekura perform various functions; fencing, access requirements, impact on from provision of facilities for visitors, to landscape/visual amenity, reserve the management of native wildlife and maintenance and the effect on the the housing of shipping control/ Pukekura values. meteorological equipment.
Objective: Buildings and structures at Pukekura and their various uses can have both positive 1. To ensure that areas are and negative impacts on the Pukekura adequately fenced to protect the values. Evidence suggests that native Pukekura values. wildlife species, particularly albatross, react to the noise and movement of humans by choosing to move their nesting sites away from the source of disturbance.
35 The effect of existing buildings and 2. To eliminate or mitigate any structures and new developments on the negative effects of buildings and Pukekura values is an important structures on the Pukekura values. management consideration. The Otago Peninsula Trust is a significant Policies: stakeholder in this regard due to the Trust's existing legal interests, existing 1. To ensure the existence and use of legal activities and associated access buildings and structures are rights (see Section 1.6). consistent with the Pukekura values. A number of buildings and structures relate to shipping navigation of the 2. All organisations proposing to Otago Harbour. Some of these buildings modify or develop buildings or are no longer required as systems are structures, or change the use of now remotely operated and therefore no structures, require the appropriate longer staffed. However, the lighthouse approvals, and applications must is still operational and there is shipping include potential effects of the navigation equipment mounted on and proposed activity on the Pukekura located within the Signal Station values and actions to take to avoid, building, which also houses a backup remedy or mitigate any adverse generator. effects.
Buildings are also required for 3. Buildings will be maintained to an conservation management of the appropriate standard in relation to albatross. its use and the Pukekura values.
Structures such as viewing areas/ 4. Authority holders must ensure that platforms, seating and interpretation the impact of all buildings and panels are important for visitors' structures (including their ongoing enjoyment of Pukekura and protection of use) on the Pukekura values is the site. Taiaroa Head has an continually monitored and international reputation as a place to minimised. view wildlife. It is therefore important that the aesthetics of the area and 5. To confirm ownership and quality of developments meet visitor maintenance responsibilities of all expectations. buildings on Pukekura.
Details and policy regarding historic buildings and structures is provided in 4.6.4 Utilities and Waste Section 4.3 - Archaeological, Cultural Management and Historical Management. Aims: It is expected that the use of buildings will change, especially buildings related 1. All services required, including the to navigation services. Any potential disposal of waste and sewage reuse of buildings will be in accordance materials, will be managed in a way with the Pukekura values and will take that is consistent with the into account the existing legal interests protection of the Pukekura values and existing legal activities of the Otago and the cultural position of Peninsula Trust. manawhenua.
Objectives: 2. A water and sewage system that reduces demand for fresh water 1. To provide buildings and structures and does not burden or overload (including use) only if consistent the sewage system. with the protection and enhancement of the Pukekura The underground reticulation of utilities values. is preferred in order to protect or enhance the landscape value of Pukekura.
36 There is a water supply easement over 3. To explore more efficient ways of neighbouring land for the purposes of managing water use. Pukekura. However, all fresh water used on Pukekura is currently brought in from Policies: elsewhere and stored in a small reservoir. 1. To review the current water regime and develop a sustainable solution There is significant demand for fresh for a reliable water supply, water water on the headland, and water supply conservation measures and a and water conservation are major method of sewage disposal – all of management issues for Pukekura. which are consistent with the Pukekura values. The Department of Conservation requires water for albatross conservation 2. A solution for sewage disposal must management and for staff use. The exhaust all off-site options before main demand for water, however, is considering use of Pukekura. from the Royal Albatross Centre, namely for visitor use. 3. A minimum quantity of water is reserved for conservation The sewage plant on Pukekura dates management purposes. back to 1989. It only services the Royal Albatross Centre. The Otago Peninsula 4. To retain existing water access Trust is responsible for its management. rights to Pukekura.
In the past, sewage was disposed of 5. There is no discharge of human through an outfall at Waiwhakaheke (a waste directly to water. wahi tapu). Sewage currently undergoes primary treatment and is then disposed 6. All rubbish is to be appropriately of offsite. Discharge of human waste removed as a requirement of all into water is offensive to manawhenua authorities granted. and discharging at a wahi tapu is not consistent with the Pukekura values. 7. All efforts should be made to avoid or mitigate containments reaching Pukekura management acknowledges the ocean. that a long-term solution is needed regarding water supply and use and how 8. To identify the location of all utility to best manage sewage disposal. A connections, including pipes and solution will require expert advice and underground cables. the support of stakeholders. Efficient use of water will benefit the sewage system (eg recycling of grey water). All 4.6.5 Roads, Tracks and Vehicle options for off-site sewage disposal must Parking be exhausted before considering using land on Pukekura. Aim:
Stormwater runoff is predominantly 1. Provision of roads, tracks and associated with the vehicle parking area vehicle parking will be kept to a where channelling of water occurs. minimum but will be adequate to manage visitor numbers and meet Objectives: operational requirements while not compromising the Pukekura values. 1. To allow necessary management utilities and services (including The presence and use of existing roads, waste) in a manner that is tracks, vehicle parking and any new compatible with the Pukekura developments will be managed to protect values. the Pukekura values.
2. That no contaminants are discharged into the sea.
37 The vehicle parking area at the Royal 2. A review of roads is to be Albatross Visitor Centre will be the only undertaken. public parking area on Pukekura. The 3. To formalise maintenance parking area is maintained by the responsibilities of the vehicle Dunedin City Council. parking area.
Visitor access to all other areas on 4. Advocate for an appropriate vehicle Pukekura will be pedestrian only. The access to Pilots Beach is only for 5. Existing and new tracks and roads pedestrian use but will continue to be will not negatively impact on the maintained as a road for emergency Pukekura values. purposes and to facilitate disabled access when necessary. 6. Organisations proposing to undertake road, track or vehicle Vehicle parking provision must consider parking development require the clearways for emergency vehicles and appropriate approvals and existing right of way access for applications must include potential neighbouring properties. effects of the proposed activity on the Pukekura values and actions to The road to the main vehicle parking area take to avoid, remedy or mitigate is Harington Point Road and is the only any adverse effects. legal road on Pukekura.3 7. Overnight vehicle parking is not A number of existing tracks and footpaths permitted. are located on Pukekura. Tracks are required to allow for practicable, safe and managed access for visitors, operational 4.6.6 Fire Risk Management staff and other users. Aim: Traffic speed restrictions are for the safety of not only pedestrians but also 1. Protect the Pukekura values and any native fauna on the road. minimise risk to visitors from fire by managing risk and effectively Consideration regarding the effect of this responding to a fire event. type of infrastructure on the landscape value of Pukekura and relevant policy is A fire on Pukekura has the potential to detailed in Section 4.5 - Protection of have significant negative effects on the Landscape. Pukekura values, putting people, wildlife and property at risk. Objectives: Due to the values of Pukekura, the 1. To ensure that roads, tracks and geography and the number of vehicle parking effectively manage organisations involved, it is crucial that visitor and operational access but all stakeholders (including neighbouring do not compromise the Pukekura land occupiers) work together and share values or the access rights of the responsibility for fire prevention and neighbouring properties. protection from fire. Therefore it is important that management and 2. To maintain a single vehicle stakeholders work with emergency parking area at the Royal Albatross management agencies to develop a Centre and encourage pedestrian Pukekura Fire Emergency Plan. access to all other areas. Fire plans cover a number of issues such Policies: as vegetation management, establishing priority zones, access routes, water 1. To continue to manage vehicle supply, fire restrictions and will consider access and parking to protect the local elements such as significant Pukekura values. wildlife, visitor numbers and behaviour and aircraft restrictions. 3 Reference to this can be found in NZG 1970 p145 SO Plan 16512.
38 Objectives: The Meteorological Service is the requiring authority for this designation. 1. To minimise the risk of fire events Although the Meteorological Service no occurring. longer requires a weather station at this location, Port Otago Limited continue to 2. To ensure that in the event of a maintain an automated wind gauge fire, an effective fire response is in (mounted off the Signal Station building) place. and water rainfall gauge (within the fenced off area). Policies: This designation for 'Meteorological 1. A Pukekura Fire Emergency Plan Purposes' is a land use planning will be developed in consultation authority and does not give any with the appropriate emergency entitlement to the ownership of the land. agencies and Pukekura Pukekura management consider this stakeholders. designation is to assist with shipping navigation and related safety services concerning the Otago Harbour. 4.6.7 Shipping Control Operations and the Meteorological Conditions of this designation are Station provided in Appendix 2.
Aim: Objective:
1. The use of Pukekura in respect to 1. To acknowledge the importance of marine navigation services is retaining marine navigation and supported where it does not related safety services at Pukekura. compromise the Pukekura values. Policies: Due to the location of Pukekura at the Otago Harbour entrance, shipping 1. To ensure that provision is made navigation and related safety services for relevant bodies/organisations to are an important function of the have access to the necessary headland. Marine navigation equipment marine navigation and related and related safety services includes CCTV safety services concerning the coverage of the entrance to Otago entrance to the Otago Harbour and Harbour, a sand bar warning light and the Meteorological designation. an AIS/radar system. 2. Marine navigation and related All Otago Harbour shipping control is safety services and Meteorological remotely operated from Port Chalmers designation use will not negatively and therefore personnel are not required impact on the Pukekura values. to be stationed at Pukekura. However, access is required to carry out regular 3. Any changes to the conditions of service maintenance and upon equipment the designation, use of buildings or failure. sites on Pukekura requires the appropriate approvals and A number of buildings were built onsite applications must include potential for marine navigation and related safety effects of the proposed activity on purposes. When these buildings are no the Pukekura values and actions to longer required for this purpose, the take to avoid, remedy or mitigate future use of buildings will be assessed any adverse effects. in accordance with the Pukekura values.
An area of land within the Lighthouse Reserve is designated (in the Dunedin City District Plan) as the 'Taiaroa Head Weather Station Designation' for 'Meteorological Purposes'.
39 4.7 Administration plan is monitored and where future planning priorities are determined. As described in Section 3, the management of Pukekura is a A Memorandum of Understanding will be collaborative approach between the developed between the four parties. Korako Karetai Trust, Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou, the Department of Conservation Until such time as a formal joint and the Dunedin City Council. Such an management option is in place, the approach ensures that the four parties Department of Conservation and the are all involved in management Dunedin City Council will continue to decisions and thus the future of meet the respective management costs Pukekura. associated with their relevant responsibilities. Throughout this Management Plan the term 'appropriate approvals' is used This management plan will be under when stating issues that require continuous review so that it can be consultation and approval. The relevant adapted to changing circumstances or in 'appropriate approvals' differs depending accordance with increased knowledge. on each scenario. 'Appropriate approvals' can include: Pukekura Given the many uses and values of management, the statutory role of Pukekura, it may be necessary to develop organisations, administering bodies and a long-term vision for how Pukekura will any other relevant parties as identified be enhanced. Such a strategic approach by Pukekura management. Protocols of will produce the best overall outcome for how management decisions will be all uses and protect the Pukekura values. processed (including the relevant It is recognised that whatever 'appropriate approvals') will be management model exists for Pukekura developed. in the future, the administration of the Management Plan will require and benefit The details in this section provide from input from the Otago Peninsula consistency of administration and Trust in an advisory role on matters that management of all the reserves that affect the Trust as a significant form Pukekura. stakeholder.
The purpose of this section is to ensure The production of Pukekura 'secondary' that administration of Pukekura protects plans will be considered if appropriate and, if necessary, enables the and will be consistent with and enhancement of the Pukekura values. complement this management plan.
This administration section primarily Aim: involves the implementation of this Pukekura Management Plan. There are, 1. To administer Pukekura in however, administration issues (eg accordance with this Pukekura commercial use) detailed in other Management Plan. sections of this plan that are not repeated in this section. Objective:
Pukekura Management will meet on a 1. To achieve efficient, effective and regular basis to administer this Pukekura lawful delivery of the aims, Management Plan. objectives and policies of this plan and ensure that the plan These management meetings will not administration is consistent with only be the forum to consider proposals the Pukekura values. for activities or developments, but is where Pukekura management are updated on issues (eg development progress / wildlife monitoring / research/ etc), relevant information is shared, issues discussed, implementation of this
40 Policies: 4.8 Cooperation and Collaboration with Local 1. All authorities granted will be issued by the relevant formal Land Owners administering body. Aim: 2. Protocols will be developed to process management decisions. 1. A good rapport with adjoining landowners, neighbours, relevant 3. Promote transparency through the stakeholders and the local sharing of all information relevant community is established and to Pukekura between the individual maintained in a manner that Pukekura management parties. supports the protection of the Pukekura values. 4. Pukekura Management will meet regularly to ensure implementation Protecting the Pukekura values is not of this Plan. just about what takes place on Pukekura but can also be influenced by what 5. Pukekura Management will be occurs on adjacent properties, Otago responsible to report to their Harbour and the wider environment. respective organisations on management issues including an The Otekiho Reserve, administered by annual report of activities. the Dunedin City Council and managed by the Yellow-Eyed Penguin Trust, 6. Pukekura Management will actively adjoins part of Pukekura. The remaining source funding for the adjoining land is privately owned and implementation of the Plan. has a covenant with the Minister of Conservation to protect the sooty 7. A Memorandum of Understanding shearwater colony. will be developed until such time as a formal Board or Joint There are cross-boundary considerations Management Body is established. that directly relate to protecting the Pukekura values. Pest animal control 8. To consider a long-term vision for carried out on adjoining land is beneficial the enhancement of Pukekura. to maintaining and protecting the Pukekura values. Other cross-boundary 9. The development of 'secondary considerations relating to management plans' will be considered if include fencing, management of flora necessary. and fauna, fire risk management and access. 10. This management plan will be under continuous review. Awareness that traditional use by manawhenua extended beyond the 11. To investigate confirming the boundaries of the Pukekura reserves is formal use of the traditional names an important cross-boundary of this headland. consideration.
Adjoining private land is accessed through Pukekura from the vehicle parking area.
41 Developments on Pukekura have the Policies: potential to impact on neighbours and the neighbouring community. Equally, 1. To encourage dialogue between developments or activities on Pukekura management, neighbouring properties can potentially neighbours, relevant stakeholders impact on the Pukekura values. An and the local community regarding understanding of the Pukekura values, intentions that may impact on each honest communication and a good other, potential effects and ways rapport between neighbours and that these can be mitigated. Pukekura Management mean that any issues concerning Pukekura can be 2. To work with adjoining landowners managed more effectively. regarding cross boundary issues.
Objective: 3. Any existing or proposed access across Pukekura will need to be 1. To promote awareness of the formalised. Pukekura values and work with neighbours, relevant stakeholders and the local community to protect these, including adjoining landowners regarding cross boundary issues.
By kind permission of the Otago Daily Times
42 APPENDIX 1: SECTIONS 20 AND 23 OF THE RESERVES ACT 1977
Section 20 Reserves Act 1977
Nature reserves
(1) It is hereby declared that the be deemed to include any appropriate provisions of this Act physical contact with the land shall have effect, in relation to by a boat; and for this reserves classified as nature purpose any physical contact reserves, for the purpose of with the land shall be protecting and preserving in deemed to include the perpetuity indigenous flora or attaching (by rope or fauna or natural features that are otherwise) of a boat to the of such rarity, scientific interest or reserve or to a wharf importance, or so unique that their constructed on or partly on protection and preservation are in the reserve: the public interest. (d) where scenic, historic, (2) It is hereby further declared that, archaeological, biological, having regard to the general geological, or other scientific purposes specified in subsection features are present on the (1), every nature reserve shall be reserve, those features shall so administered and maintained be managed and protected to under the appropriate provisions of the extent compatible with this Act that— the principal or primary purpose of the reserve: (a) it shall be preserved as far as provided that nothing in this possible in its natural state: paragraph shall authorise the doing of anything with (b) except where the Minister respect to fauna that would otherwise determines, the contravene any provision of indigenous flora and fauna, the Wildlife Act 1953 or any ecological associations, and regulations or Proclamation natural environment shall as or notification under that Act, far as possible be preserved or the doing of anything with and the exotic flora and respect to archaeological fauna as far as possible be features in any reserve that exterminated: would contravene any provision of the Historic (c) for the better protection and Places Act 1993: preservation of the flora and fauna in its natural state, no (e) to the extent compatible with person shall enter the the principal or primary reserve, except under the purpose of the reserve, its authority of a permit granted value as a soil, water, and under section 48A or section forest conservation area shall 57 or in accordance with a be maintained. notice given under subsection (2) of that section and, for (3) For the purposes of subsection (2) the purposes of this (c), where the foreshore of any paragraph, the expression nature reserve which is an island or "enter the reserve" shall, in part of an island does not form part the case of a nature reserve of the reserve which it adjoins, the or part of a nature reserve foreshore shall be deemed to form that is an island or that part of the reserve. comprises most of an island,
43 Section 23 Reserves Act 1977
Local Purpose Reserves
(1) It is hereby declared that the any local purpose reserve for appropriate provisions of this Act esplanade purposes created shall have effect, in relation to under the said Part 25 or Part reserves classified as local purpose 2 or under Part 20 of the reserves for the purpose of Local Government providing and retaining areas for Amendment Act 1978 or such local purpose or purposes as under Part 10 of the Resource are specified in any classification of Management Act 1991 after the reserve. the commencement of this Act, that would impede the (2) It is hereby further declared that, right of the public freely to having regard to the specific local pass and repass over the purpose for which the reserve has reserve on foot, unless the been classified, every local purpose administering body reserve shall be so administered determines that access and maintained under the should be prohibited or appropriate provisions of this Act restricted to preserve the that— stability of the land or the biological values of the (a) where scenic, historic, reserve: archaeological, biological, or natural features are present (b) to the extent compatible with on the reserve, those the principal or primary features shall be managed purpose of the reserve, its and protected to the extent value as a soil, water, and compatible with the principal forest conservation area shall or primary purpose of the be maintained. reserve: provided that nothing in this (3) Where a local purpose reserve is paragraph shall authorise the vested in a local authority or where doing of anything with the administering body is a local respect to fauna that would authority, it may from time to contravene any provision of time, by public notice, prohibit the Wildlife Act 1953 or any access to the whole or any regulations or Proclamation specified part of the reserve, and or notification under that Act, in that case no person shall enter or the doing of anything with the reserve or, as the case may respect to archaeological be, that part, except under the features in any reserve that authority of a permit issued by the would contravene any local authority. provision of the Historic Places Act 1993: (4) Where a local purpose reserve is provided also that nothing in not vested in a local authority and this paragraph shall authorise a local authority has not been the doing of anything with appointed to control and manage respect to any esplanade it, the Minister may from time to reserve created under section time, by public notice, prohibit 167 of the Land Act 1948, or access to the whole or any section 190(3) or Part 25 of specified part of the reserve, and the Municipal Corporations in that case no person shall enter Act 1954 or Part 2 of the the reserve or, as the case may Counties Amendment Act be, that part, except under 1961 and existing at the authority of a permit issued by the commencement of this Act, or Minister.
44 APPENDIX 2: TAIAROA HEAD WEATHER STATION METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE NEW ZEALAND DESIGNATION
D485 (Taiaroa Head Weather Station) 4. The maximum floor area of any addition to any structure existing This designation is confirmed without on the site at 20 November 1996 modification and subject to the shall be 100 percent of the floor conditions set out below. area of the existing structure.
Conditions: 5. Any addition to any structure existing on the site at 20 1. The maximum height of any new November 1996 shall be finished in building or other structure shall be the same or similar colour, hue no greater than the maximum and materials as the existing height of the tallest equivalent structure. structure existing at the site on 20 November 1996. 6. MetService shall consult with the Department of Conservation prior 2. The maximum floor area of any to modifying existing mast new building or structure shall be structures with the effect that their no more than 50 percent of the height or the number of associated floor area of the largest equivalent guy wires is increased. structure existing at the site on 20 November 1996. 7. MetService shall consult with Te Runanga o Otakou, the 3. Any new structure shall be finished Department of Conservation, the in the same or similar colour, hue Dunedin City Council and the and materials as the most similar Korako Karetai Trust prior to structure existing at the site on erecting any new structures. 20 November 1996.
45 APPENDIX 3: SIGNIFICANT NATIVE SPECIES
English Maori Latin Current Threat Status (DOC, 2008) Birds Northern royal Toroa Diomedea sanfordi Naturally albatross Uncommon
Stewart Island shag Kōau Leucocarbo Nationally chalconotus Vulnerable
Little shag Kōau paka Phalacrocorax Naturally melanoleucos Uncommon brevirostris Spotted shag Kōau tikitiki Stictocarbo Not Threatened punctatus punctatus
Royal spoonbill Kōtuku-ngutupapa Platalea regia Naturally Uncommon
Sooty shearwater Titi Puffinus griseus Declining
Variable Tōrea Haematopus Recovering oystercatcher unicolor
Little penguin Kororā Eudyptula minor Declining
Yellow-eyed penguin Hoiho Megadyptes Nationally antipodes Vulnerable
Fiordland crested Tawake Eudyptes Nationally penguin pachyrhynchus Vulnerable
Red-billed gull Tarāpunga Larus Nationally novaehollandiae Vulnerable scopulinus
Southern Karoro Larus dominicanus Not Threatened Black-backed gull dominicanus
Australasian gannet Takapu Morus serrator Not Threatened
Plants Cook's scurvy grass Nau Lepidium oleraceum Nationally agg. Vulnerable
Buchanan's orache - Atriplex buchananiii Naturally Uncommon
Short-hair plume - Dichelachne Naturally grass inaequiglumis Uncommon
- Einadia allanii Naturally uncommon - Pikao Pikao Ficinia spiralis Relict
46 English Maori Latin Current Threat Status (DOC, 2008) Senecio carnosulus Naturally - - Uncommon
Senecio Naturally uncommon - - glaucophyllus subsp. Basinudus
Marine Mammals New Zealand sea Whakahao Phocarctos hookeri Nationally Critical lion
New Zealand fur Kekeno Arctocephalus Not Threatened seal forsteri
Leopard seal Rapoka Hydrurga leptonyx Vagrant
Southern elephant Ihu koropuku Mirounga leonina Nationally Critical seal
47 APPENDIX 4: KNOWN HISTORICAL STRUCTURES
1850s–1987 Cottage and school foundation platforms for employees of the Harbour Board, the Maritime Board, the Education Board and the Defence Department.
1864 Lighthouse.
1885 Channel Battery Emplacement for two 64-pound Rifled Muzzle Guns, together with underground magazine and store rooms and above-ground Observation Post.
1885 Summit Battery Emplacement for one 6-pound Quick-Firing Gun. The current Albatross observatory is now built over this emplacement.
1885 Saddle Battery Emplacement – one 7-inch RML gun, together with underground magazine and storerooms and above-ground Observation Post.
1885 Howlett Point Battery Emplacement – one 64-pound RML Gun, together with underground magazine and storerooms and above-ground Observation Post.
1885 Stonework defensive Musketry Parapet – still in place across headland but with gate pillar lowered and gates removed.
1885 Two-cell stonework jail for army defaulters and Justice Department prisoners.
1889 Lighthouse Battery Emplacement – one 6-inch Breech Loading Armstrong Disappearing Gun Mark 4 together with underground magazine and store rooms and above-ground Observation Post. In addition, there is a 1943 World War II shell hoist modification for servicing a Mark-7 6-inch Breech Loading gun from Rerewahine located alongside the gunpit.
1908 Howlett Point Battery Emplacement – two 12 pound Quick-Firing Guns, with underground magazine and storerooms.
Wire rope at Pilots Beach for the tramline from the landing place to the top of the parade ground for servicing the Defence Department and Harbour Board facilities. (Vintage unknown).
Remnants of wharf at Pilots Beach.
1941 World War II Concrete Searchlight Pad – on harbour side of entrance.
1941–45 World War II Foundations and remnants of Pilots Beach Army Camp buildings and facilities.
48 APPENDIX 5: FEATURES MAP
49 APPENDIX 6: BIBLIOGRAPHY
Publications and Policy Documents
Kāi Tahu Ki Otago, 2005: Natural Resource Management Plan.
Department of Conservation, Dunedin: Otago Conservation Management Strategy 1998.
National Rural Fire Authority, 2004: FireSmart: Protecting our Communities from Interface Fires.
Department of Conservation, 2007: Conservation General Policy.
Dunedin City Council: Dunedin City District Plan.
Dunedin City Council: Reserves Management Plan – General Policies 2005.
Otago Regional Council, 2009: Pest Management Strategy for Otago.
Boffa Miskell Limited, 2007: Dunedin LMA Review: Landscape Assessment Final Report.
Dunedin Visitor strategy 2008-15.
Government Acts and Gazette Notices
Ngāi Tahu Claims Settlement Act 1998.
Reserves Act 1977.
Conservation Act 1987.
Wildlife Act 1953.
Historic Places Act 1993.
Wildlife Refuge Status - NZ Gazette 1938 p.2084 (section 14(5) Wildlife Act 1953).
Wildlife Sanctuary – Taiaroa Head Foreshore - Proclaimed by the Governor-General in Council pursuant to Section 9 of the Wildlife Act 1953.
50 APPENDIX 7: GLOSSARY
Hapū Kinship group, clan, tribe, sub-tribe – section of a large kinship tribe.
Hoiho Yellow eyed penguin.
Kai Tāhu Southern Tribes word for Ngāi Tahu.
Kaitiaki Trustee, minder, guard, custodian, guardian, keeper.
Kaitiakitanga Guardianship/trustee.
Karoro Black-backed seagull.
Kāti Māmoe Local dialect for Ngāti Māmoe, a tribal group which was largely replaced by Ngāi Tahu through intermarriage and conquest.
Kawau Black shag.
Kawau Tikitiki Spotted shag.
Kekeno New Zealand fur seal.
Kōau Shag – variations of kowau.
Kororā Blue penguin.
Kōtuku-ngutupapa Royal Spoonbills.
Māui Name of well known character in narratives.
Manawhenua Territorial rights, power from the land.
Nau Cooks Scurvy Grass.
Ngāi Tahu Tribal group of much of the South Island, sometimes called Kai Tahu by the southern tribes.
Ōtākou An important village near the Otago Harbour entrance at the time of early contact with Pākehā. Still occupied by Ngāi Tahu.
Pā Fortified village.
Pōhuehue A native plant.
Popoiangore Leopard Seals.
Tara White-fronted tern.
Tawaki Crested penguin.
Tarāpunga Red billed seagull.
Tītī Sooty shearwaters.
Tōrea Oyster catcher.
51 Toroa Albatross.
Waiata Song, chant.
Waitaha The tribe that formerly occupied much of the South Island before they were displaced by Ngāti Māmoe, who in turn were later dominated by Ngāi Tahu.
Whakahao New Zealand sea lion.
Whakapapa Genealogy, genealogical table, lineage, descent.
Whakataukī Proverb, saying.
Whānau Extended family.
52