Tapuae, New Plymouth

Marine Reserve Application

Prepared for the Director General of the Department of Conservation December 2004

Supported in principle by tangata whenua

Kia ora tonu te mauri o te moana mo ake tonu To maintain and enhance the vitality of the sea for the future

Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated P.O. Box 1029 Taranaki Mail Centre New Plymouth

www.seasense.org

Application for a Marine Reserve: Tapuae, New Plymouth.

RESPONSE FORM

To have your say please complete the submission form below, or visit the website www.seasense.org and respond on-line. The full Tapuae Marine Reserve Proposal may be viewed on the website. The closing date is 14th March 2005. Copies of this proposal may be viewed at Puke Ariki, District Libraries, Taranaki Regional Council and the Department of Conservation Area Office, Devon Street. Any submission (objection or submission in support) submitted in response to the notification of the application may be required to be disclosed in response to a request for information under the Official Information Act 1982. If you are an individual (as opposed to an organisation) and would prefer that your name and address be withheld (subject to the provisions of the Official Information Act 1982) please indicate that in your submission.

Every submission (including email submissions) should contain the full name and address of the submitter. ------

Name Name of Group/Iwi Address

Ph/Fax/email

Tick one box only:

I/we SUPPORT the Tapuae Marine Reserve Proposal (please provide reason for support)

I/we OPPOSE the Tapuae Marine Reserve Proposal (please provide reason for opposition)

I/we WOULD SUPPORT the Tapuae Marine Reserve Proposal if it was modified (write your comments below)

The date of the first publication of this notice is 12th January 2005. Submissions close on the 14th March 2005. Send a copy to both New Plymouth Area Office Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Department of Conservation P.O. Box 1029 P.O. Box 462 Taranaki Mail Centre New Plymouth New Plymouth Email: Email: [email protected] [email protected] Fax: 06 759 0351

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

The Taranaki coast is known for its wild ruggedness. Near to New Plymouth this energetic and exposed environment is broken by the Sugar Loaf Islands which provide a diverse range of habitats and sheltered areas for marine life.

The area has been a focus for marine recreation for New Plymouth residents for generations. The overall area has special significance to tangata whenua.

A proposal to establish a marine reserve over a portion of this environment is presented below. It would provide long-lasting protection to approximately half the unique Sugar Loaf Island group, and an adjacent section of subtidal and intertidal seabed that is typical of the Taranaki volcanic apron. It is noted that there is on ly one other marine reserve on the west coast of the North Island, at Kapiti Island . A map showing the proposed marine reserve is shown below.

The location of the proposed marine reserve near New P lymouth

KEY

……….Sugar Loaf Islands MPA - - - - Proposed Marine Reserve

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application i

The proposed reserve area and associated islands support a number of diverse and significant ecological and geological features including :

 extensive intertidal and subtidal boulder reefs,

 volcanic rocky outcrops,

 nesting habitats for seabirds, and

 a haul-out site and northern-most breeding ground for New Zealand fur seals.

The proposed reserve features diverse and abundant marine life. The current total for the combined subtidal and intertidal species for the proposed reserve is four hundred and eighteen species, including 100 gastropods, 88 fish, 50 seaweeds, 36 bivalves, 35 sponges, 28 bryozoa, 24 echinoderms, 14 crabs and shrimps, 11 chitons, 13 cnidarians, 8 ascidians, and 6 barnacles.

The reserve area receives high recreational use, being in close to New Plymouth and nearby towns, which have a resident population of approximately 50,000. The Sugar Loaf Islands and surrounding coastal area are popular for boating, diving, surfing, sightseeing and fishing. The seascape views have a high amenity value for both locals and visitors.

Public consultation on this proposal has been undertaken since 1997. One of the key issues regarding the establishment of the reserve is a perceived reduction in opportunities for fishing and harvesting of marine life close to New Plymouth. The area within the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area is already managed under special Fisheries legislation that restricts the type and amount of fish that can be taken recreationally and commercially. However, there is broad recognition of the need for a no-take area that can provide a refuge and nursery for the range of marine species in the area.

The boundaries of the proposed reserve have been carefully selected to maintain quality opportunities for local fishermen within the area of the Sugar Loaf Islands, while protecting the habitats and biodiversity of the marine environment.

The boundaries also reflect the interest of tangata whenua in maintaining opportunities for gathering of kaimoana. Tangata whenua have a strong interest in the reserve area which includes numerous wahi tapu (sacred places) and an urupa on a submerged reef (Koruanga or Motukoku Reef). They seek an ongoing role in the management of the area, should the reserve designation be approved.

This application was developed with extensive input from members of the public, interest groups and tangata whenua. It is the result of several years of diligent effort, including consultation, scientific study, and gathering of other information.

A number of important benefits are expected to accrue if the proposed Tapuae Marine Reserve is established. Biodiversity would be enhanced, and scientific study would enable the local residents to gain an increasing understanding and appreciation of the marine environment, contributing to education, recreation and tourism.

It is anticipated that additional benefits would become apparent over time, such as increased numbers of targeted species and their movement from the reserve into areas designated for fishing and harvesting. ii Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 INTRODUCTION ...... 1 1.1 THE EXISTING MARINE PROTECTED AREA...... 1 1.2 THE APPLICANT ...... 3 1.3 OBJECTIVES OF APPLICATION ...... 3 1.4 THE NAME ...... 3 1.5 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED RESERVE ...... 3 2 BACKGROUND TO THE APPLICATION ...... 6 2.1 THE PURPOSE OF MARINE RESERVES AND THE ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION . 6 2.2 THE PROCESS FOR ESTABLISHING A MARINE RESERVE ...... 6 2.3 THE ORIGIN OF THIS PROPOSAL AND THE INVESTIGATIVE PROCESS ...... 6 2.4 PUBLIC CONSULTATION ...... 8 3 DESCRIPTION OF THE PROPOSED RESERVE ...... 10 3.1 COASTAL GEOLOGY...... 10 3.2 CLIMATE ...... 11 3.3 PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHY ...... 11 3.4 SEAWATER PROPERTIES ...... 12 3.5 INTERTIDAL AND SUBTIDAL HABITAT OF THE PROPOSED RESERVE ...... 13 3.6 BIODIVERSITY ...... 19 3.7 OTHER MARINE LIFE ...... 23 4 CULTURAL, AMENITY AND COMMERCIAL VALUES ...... 24 4.1 CULTURAL VALUES ...... 24 4.2 AMENITY VALUES ...... 24 4.3 COMMERCIAL VALUES ...... 27 5 JUSTIFICATION FOR THE PROPOSED RESERVE ...... 28 5.1 MEETS THE PURPOSE OF MARINE RESERVES ACT 1971 ...... 28 5.2 BOUNDARY SELECTION ...... 28 5.3 DISTINCTIVE QUALITY OF THE AREA ...... 29 5.4 AN AREA TYPICAL OF THE TARANAKI COAST ...... 29 5.5 ECOLOGICAL JUSTIFICATION ...... 30 5.6 FULL RESERVE STATUS COMPARED TO PARTIAL PROTECTION...... 30 5.7 BENCHMARK FOR SCIENTIFIC STUDY ...... 31 5.8 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION ...... 32 6 IMPLICATIONS FOR EXISTING AND FUTURE USERS ...... 35 6.1 ADJOINING LANDOWNERS ...... 35 6.2 COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS ...... 36 6.3 RECREATIONAL FISHING ...... 38 6.4 CUSTOMARY FISHING ...... 39 6.5 OTHER RECREATIONAL USERS ...... 39 6.6 PUBLIC ACCESS ...... 40 6.7 SCIENTIFIC AND EDUCATIONAL USERS ...... 40 7 PROPOSED MANAGEMENT ...... 41 7.1 LEVEL OF PROTECTION ...... 41 7.2 PUBLIC ACCESS, NAVIGATION AND ANCHORING ...... 41 7.3 COMPLIANCE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT ...... 41 7.4 MONITORING AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH ...... 41 7.5 EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION ...... 42 7.6 ADMINISTRATION ...... 42 8 SUMMARY ...... 43 9 ACKNOWLEDGMENTS ...... 44 10 REFERENCES ...... 45

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application iii

LIST OF FIGURES FIGURE 1.1 THE LOCATION OF THE SUGAR LOAF ISLANDS (NGĀ MOTU) NEAR NEW PLYMOUTH ON THE WEST COAST OF THE NORTH ISLAND OF NEW ZEALAND (A). THE BOUNDARY OF THE EXISTING MARINE PARK IS SHOWN, ISLANDS ARE NAMED, AND CONSERVATION AREA IS SHADED (B)...... 2 FIGURE 1.2 MAP OF THE PROPOSED MARINE RESERVE AREA WITH CORNERS AS DETAILED IN TABLE 1. .. 4 FIGURE 1.3 VIEW FROM A ...... 5 FIGURE 1.4 VIEW FROM D ...... 5 FIGURE 1.5 PANORAMIC VIEW ...... 5 FIGURE 3.1 ANNUAL WIND ROSE FOR THE NEW PLYMOUTH AIRPORT...... 11 FIGURE 3.2 PARITUTU ROCK, AND THE LONGEST BEACH AREA AT THE NORTHERN END, BACK BEACH 14 FIGURE 3.3 THE BOULDER BEACHES ARE INTERSPERSED WITH SCATTERED SAND BEACHES ...... 14 FIGURE 3.4 VIEW FROM THE TAPUAE; THE BEACH IS SEPARATED FROM THE SEA BY A BELT OF LOW TIDAL BOULDERS...... 14 FIGURE 3.5 VIEW OF THE DUNES BORDERING THE HIGH TIDE MARK AT TAPUAE ...... 14 FIGURE 3.6 ROCK OUTCROP NEAR SEAL ROCKS ...... 15 FIGURE 3.7 THE LOCATIONS OF THE 323 DROP VIDEO SITES WITHIN THE AREA OF THE PROPOSED MARINE RESERVE ...... 16 FIGURE 3.8 AREAS OF ROCK AND BOULDER REEF (RED) AS DEFINED BY SIDE SCAN SONAR SURVEY. .... 17 FIGURE 3.9 AREAS OF THE KELP ECKLONIA RADIATA...... 17 FIGURE 3.10 ROCK AND SAND HABITATS REVEALED BY THE DROP VIDEO SURVEY...... 18 FIGURE 3.11 INDEX OF THE SEABED COMPLEXITY IN THE PROPOSED MARINE RESERVE...... 18 FIGURE 3.12 DIVE SURVEY SITES MADE BY COOPER (2002)...... 19 FIGURE 3.13 THE INTERTIDAL RANGES OF DOMINANT ZONING ORGANISMS ON THE INTERTIDAL LANDWARD FACE OF ROUND ROCK. (HAYWARD AND MORLEY, 2001) ...... 21 FIGURE 3.14 COMMON AND CHARACTERISTIC ORGANISMS OF THE INTERTIDAL WESTERN BOULDER BEACHES (HAYWARD AND MORLEY, 2001) ...... 21 FIGURE 3.15 A DIVER SURVEYING A KELP BED ...... 22 FIGURE 3.16 A HYDROID TREE IN A BOULDER FIELD ...... 22 FIGURE 3.17 SWEEP, KINA AND HYDROID TREE ...... 22 FIGURE 3.18 SWEEP AND RED MOKI ...... 22 FIGURE 3.19 WRASSE NEAR SEAL ROCKS ...... 22 FIGURE 3.20 NEW ZEALAND FUR SEAL ...... 23 FIGURE 7.1 DIVERS PHOTOGRAPHING DURING AN INVERTEBRATE SURVEY ...... 42

LIST OF TABLES TABLE 1.1 BOUNDARY CO-ORDINATES OF THE PROPOSED TAPUAE MARINE RESERVE (NZTM AND NZGD 2000)...... 4 TABLE 3.1 STATISTICS OF THE MONTHLY AND ANNUAL SIGNIFICANT WAVE HEIGHT (M) OFFSHORE OF NEW PLYMOUTH AS DEFINED BY WAVE HINDCASTING (1979-1999) BY GORMAN ET AL. (2003)...... 12 TABLE 3.2 EXPECTED MONTHLY MEAN SEA SURFACE TEMPERATURES AT THE PROPOSED RESERVE...... 13 TABLE 3.3 THE PERCENTAGE OF HABITAT TYPE WITHIN EACH OF THREE NORTH TARANAKI REGIONS SURVEYED BY DROP VIDEO. LOCATIONS ARE DESCIBED IN THE TEXT. N=NUMBER OF DROP VIDEO SITES...... 16

LIST OF APPENDICES

APPENDIX 1 THE PROCESS FOR ESTABLISHING A MARINE RESERVE

APPENDIX 2 THE SCHEDULE OF PRE-STATUTORY CONSULTATION

APPENDIX 3 ADDRESSING ISSUES

APPENDIX 4 SPECIES LIST

APPENDIX 5 COPY OF THE “NOTICE OF INTENTION”

iv Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

1 Introduction

This is an application by the Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated for the establishment of a marine reserve, of 1,547ha, off the Taranaki coast near New Plymouth. The proposed reserve [Figure 1.2] overlaps the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area (SLIMPA) and extends southwest to the Tapuae Reef. This application seeks to upgrade the protection status of the overlapped section of the SLIMPA, but not to affect the status of the remaining original area. Thus the SLIMPA Act would not be rescinded and the proposed marine reserve would overl ie the western portion of the Marine Protected Area.

A suggested name for the proposed marine reserve is the Tapuae Marine Reserve.

The fundamental principle behind this proposal for a Marine Reserve is to create a marine area undisturbed by extractive human activity, so that natural proces ses can be preserved and observed. There is presently only one marine reserve on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand (Kapiti, some 200km to the south). The proposed marine reserve fulfils the objectives of the Marine Reserves Act (1971) by be ing both representative of the rugged and energetic environment of the Taranaki Bight, and distinctive, incorporating some Sugar Loaf Islands and providing a diversity of habitats which support a wide variety of marine life. Further, the proposed reserve is adjacent to the city of New Plymouth (population 47,800), the deepwater Port Taranaki, and its large industries. This juxtaposition of a unique and vulnerable ecosystem next to an active port and growing city reinforces the desirability of reserve status for the area.

1.1 THE EXISTING MARINE PROTECTED AREA.

A proposal for a Marine Park was presented to the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries in 1983, and regulations limiting fishing were established under the Fisheries Act. These were gazetted in September 1986. Concern about the degree of protection from prospecting and development led to the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area [Figure 1.1b] created by an Act of Parliament (the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area (SLIMPA) Act, 1991). In 1991 the Interim Management Committee investigated a ‘South-West Extension’ of the Marine Park to the Tapuae Stream, which did not eventuate.

The SLIMPA protects 749ha of seabed, foreshore and water around the Sugar Loaf Islands (Ngā Motu) and is managed jointly by the Department of Conservation (DOC) and Ministry of Fisheries under the SLIMPA Act 1991, and by the Taranaki Regional Council (TRC) under the Resource Management Act 1991. The foreshore, islands, seabed and water are managed by the Department of Cons ervation as the Sugar Loaf Island Sanctuaries and Conservation Park, and the fisheries resources within the SLIMPA are managed by the Ministry of Fisheries. The conservation management plan prepared for the marine protected area notes that it was establish ed in order to “preserve and protect the natural character of the seabed and foreshore within

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 1

SLIMPA, and ensure the diversity of seabed and foreshore habitats is not reduced ” (Department of Conservation, 1997a).

The regulations under the Fisheries Act set up two fisheries management zones to manage access to fisheries resources within the SLIMPA. In the largest zone, all commercial fishing, except trolling for kingfish ( Seriola grandis) and kahawai (Arripis trutta) is prohibited. Recreational set netting and long lining are also prohibited in this zone. The second zone, the Fisheries Conservation Area, covers the area within 500 m radius of Waikaranga/Seal Rocks. All fishing, except for trolling and spearfishing for kingfish and kahawai, is prohibited with in this area. Spoil dumping and activities that may disturb the foreshore and sea bed, including anchoring by commercial vessels and mining, are restricted throughout the SLIMPA.

In its Regional Coastal Plan the TRC identifies the SLIMPA as being an area of Outstanding Coastal Value (TRC, 1997) because of the significant conservation values (ecological and geological). Under the Regional Coastal Plan activities that might have a significant adverse effect on outstanding coastal values are prohibited.

Marine reserves differ from marine parks in that marine reserves exclude all fishing, and protect the habitat and all organisms, while marine parks allow recreational fishing.

A B

Sugar Loaf Islands / Nga Motu

Figure 1.1 The location of the Sugar Loaf Islands (Ngā Motu) near New Plymouth on the west coast of the North Island of New Zealand (A). The boundary of the existing marine park is shown, islands are named, and Conservation Area is shaded (B).

2 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

1.2 THE APPLICANT

The Applicant is the Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, and therefore fits the requirement in Section 5.1.3 of the Marine Reserves Act 1971, that states “Any body corporate or other organisation engaged in or having as one of its objectives, the scientific study of marine life or natural history” may make a marine reserve application. The Society is a diverse community group representing scientific, educational and recreational interests, whose objectives are

 To establish a network of marine reserves in the Taranaki region.  To ensure the marine life and other natural resources within the region are protected.  To encourage the scientific study of marine life on the Taranaki coast.  To foster community awareness of the coastal environment by education.

The application in supported in principle by tangata whenua.

1.3 OBJECTIVES OF APPLICATION

The objectives of this application are:

To give effect to the principles and purposes of the Marine Reserves Act, 1971 :

1. To preserve in their natural states a range of marine habitats that are of distinctive quality, and also so typical of the exposed West Coast \Taranaki Bight area of New Zealand that their preservation is in the national interest;

2. To provide an area for education, scientific research and recreation that is easily accessible for schools, scientists and the public;

3. To give greater protection to an area that has great cultural and recreational significance to the Taranaki community (including the tangata whenua) ; and

4. To conserve indigenous marine biodiversity by preserving and prote cting marine communities in a marine reserve.

1.4 THE NAME

A suggested name of the marine reserve proposed at New Plymouth is Tapuae Marine Reserve, which refers to the special nature of this area.

1.5 LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED RESERVE

The proposed Tapuae Marine Reserve is located on the North Taranaki Coast, to the west of New Plymouth [Figure 1.1]. The proposed boundaries of the reserve commence at mean high water springs (MHWS) and are defined by the co-ordinates presented in Table 1.1. It has a total area of 1,547ha, with a total length of coastline of

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 3

6,455m. The northern land corner of the reserve is to the south west of the base of Paritutu Rock and meets the seaward edge of the SLIMPA, thereby excluding the underwater feature of Spider Rock. The boundary cont inues southwest from the SLIMPA, between 25m and 30m depths to a point 2.3km offshore of the Tapuae Stream. [Figure 1.2]. Photos of the shore points (A and D on Figure 1.2) are given in Figures 1.3 and 1.4.

Table 1.1 Boundary co-ordinates of the proposed Tapuae Marine Reserve (NZTM and NZGD 2000).

Point Northing (m) Easting (m) Latitude Longitude A 5676062.86 1688403.89 39 03 36.1788 S 174 01 18.4092 E B 5677638.56 1686607.68 39 02 45.7181 S 174 00 02.9597 E C 5673357.59 1682877.42 39 05 05.8784 S 173 57 29.6751 E D 5671838.10 1684575.80 39 05 54.5771 S 173 58 41.0394 E

Figure 1.2 Map of the proposed marine reserve area with corners as detailed in Table 1.

4 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

Waikaranga/Seal Rocks Pararaki (behind) Motumahanga/Saddleback Paritutu Mataora

Proposed reserve includes these islands. These lie outside the proposed reserve.

Figure 1.3 View from A

Tapuae Stream

Figure 1.4 View from D

Southwest Motuotamotea Pararaki Paritutu Mataora ‘D’ Saddleback ‘A’

Figure 1.5 Panoramic view

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 5

2 Background to the Application

2.1 THE PURPOSE OF MARINE RESERVES AND THE ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF CONSERVATION

The Marine Reserves Act 1971 (Section 3) establishes the general purpose of marine reserves as the preservation, for the scientific study of marine life, of areas that contain underwater scenery, natural features, or marine life, of such distinctive quality, or so typical, or beautiful, or unique, that their con tinued preservation is in the national interest. Under the Marine Reserves Act, the Department of Conservation is responsible for caring for and managing marine reserves. Management functions include marking marine reserve boundaries, law enforcement, issu ing scientific permits and monitoring environmental changes.

A number of important benefits accrue from marine reserves besides the value for scientific study. These include:

 An increased understanding and appreciation by local residents of the marine environment in their area and its sustainability

 Enhanced opportunities for education, recreation and tourism (in this case close proximity to New Plymouth and adjacent towns )

 The provision of secure refuges for exploited fish stocks and other marine organisms

 The provision of ecological benchmarks against which to assess the impacts of human use and the effectiveness of management systems on the adjacent marine areas

 Being part of a network of small marine reserves on New Zealand’s coast that is representative of all major ecological types.

2.2 THE PROCESS FOR ESTABLISHING A MARINE RESERVE

Marine reserves are established by an Order-in-Council made by the Governor-General following the process set out in Section 5 of the Marine Reserves Act 1971 . (See Appendix 1)

2.3 THE ORIGIN OF THIS PROPOSAL AND THE INVESTIGATIVE PROCESS

The need for greater environmental protection for this area was recognised many years ago:

6 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

 In 1980 the Taranaki Catchment Commission, fishermen and the community began discussing the concept that the Sugar Loaf Islands (Ngā Motu) area warranted formal recognition and protection.

 In 1983 a steering committee of local interest groups was established to further the Sugar Loaf Islands ‘Marine Park’ concept. This committee was known as the SLIMPIMC (Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Park Interim Management Committee). It was led by Hugh Moss, and represented a wide spectrum of views on the use and conservation of this valued area. In 1986 it presented detailed proposals for a Marine Park to the Ministry of Ag riculture and Fisheries.

 In 1986 the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Park was created ; then with the support of Harry Duynhoven M.P., the Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area (SLIMPA) Act, 1991, was passed in Parliament. This Act prevents drilling in the Marine Protected Area and confirms the marine park status.

 In 1990 the North Taranaki Royal Forest and Bird Society’s submission to the Select Committee considering the SLIMPA Private Members Bill supported the Marine Protected Area proposal, and recommended that it be granted Marine Reserve status in the future.

 In 1991 the SLIMPIMC investigated a ‘South-West Extension’ of the Marine Park to the Tapuae Stream which did not eventuate.

 The Taranaki Regional Council report “Recreational Use of the North Taranak i Coast, 1990” estimated that 1750 recreational fishing trips set out annually from the Lee Breakwater and that 41% of fishing effort at peak time occurred within or near the SLIMPA. When the public was asked to make additional comments on changes in the quantity of the catch over the last 10 years most respondents felt that fish numbers had declined.

At this point in time it became a matter of public discussion as to whether a Marine Park or Marine Reserve should be implemented:

 In 1996 several submitters to the Draft Conservation Management Plan of the SLIMPA suggested a marine reserve. The Vision Statement of the Management Plan states ‘…the best protection option for this area is achieved (this may include part or all of the area being made a marine res erve or changes made to the current Fisheries Regulations to give greater protection to the marine life within this area’ (DOC, 1997a).

 There was public concern regarding the increasing sophistication and decreasing costs of fisheries related materials, technology and communication methods. Increased pressure on New Zealand’s fisheries had been recognised and the Quota Management System began under the Fisheries Act 1996. Later the ‘Draft Strategy for Managing the Environmental Effects of Fishing’ was developed by the Ministry of Fisheries (2003).

 The Conservation Area around Seal Rocks (Waikaranga) had been suggested as suitable for Marine Reserve status (TRC memo, 1996).

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 7

 At a public meeting in October 1997, the Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Interim Committee was formed to consult with tangata whenua, the public and interest groups, to find a suitable area on the Taranaki coast for a no -take marine reserve. The group was incorporated in October 1998, to advocate for a network of marine reserves in Taranaki and funding was achieved through memberships, donations and grants. The Society’s objectives support DOC Wanganui Conservancy’s ‘Conservation Management Strategy’ (DOC, 1997b).

 The original concept for a local marine reserve focussed on the SLIMPA only, to increase its protection by giving it marine reserve status. This was discussed in public from 1997 to 1999, referred to as the Nga Motu Marine Reserve Proposal.

 Based on the result of public surveys and discussions, the Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Committee examined a range of eight options, to test possible marine reserve sites. The area favoured by the Society, because of public feedback on the general issues discussed, included half of the SLIMPA area and extended to the Tapuae Stream (i.e. the original ‘SW Extension’) .

The process has been strengthened by the release of two national documents:

a) ‘The New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy’ (February 2000)

b) ‘Setting Course for a Sustainable Future, the Management of New Zealand’s Marine Environment’ (December 1999) from the Office of the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment.

As a result of investigation and consultation, substantial changes have been made since the original proposal for a marine reserve in 1997. The constructive suggestions made by iwi, individuals and groups have contributed to this proposal.

2.4 PUBLIC CONSULTATION

The community’s stance on the reserve and its boundaries has been sought through a comprehensive consultation strategy by the Nga Motu Marine Reserve Society. Since 1997 this has involved:

 10 public meetings

 Meetings with tangata whenua

 Meetings with individual stakeholders, including the Fisheries Liaison Committee, Sportsfishing and Underwater Club, Forest and Bird Society, and business interests

 13 newsletters, with issues twice a year, to 250 stakeholders and interested parties

 A marine forum in November 2003 involving key stakeholders

8 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

 Displays in the New Plymouth Library, other North Taranaki libraries and the New Plymouth District Council foyer

 Articles in the local newspapers

 Public talks by visiting marine experts

 Letters to key stakeholders informing of progress, events and changes to the proposal, and inviting feedback

 Survey to determine reaction to the proposal, in the M idweek newspaper, and publicly distributed ‘Discussion Pamphlet’ and accompanying "Have Your Say" form, July 1999 to April 2000

 Discussion document ‘Suggested Marine Reserve Sites on the North Taranaki Coast’ (Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society, 2001)

 Draft Proposal for the creation of a marine reserve, September 2001. Responses to this proposal.

A comprehensive chronology of consultation and events is provided in Appendix 2.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 9

3 Description of the Proposed Reserve

This section of the application provides a summary of the natural character of the proposed reserve, and also provides contextual data for the North Taranaki region.

3.1 COASTAL GEOLOGY

Three distinct coastal units have been recognised for the Taranaki coast (King et al., 1985):

i) The North Taranaki Coastal Unit, which extends from the Mokau river to Urenui and is characterised by narrow sandy beaches backed by Tertiary mudstone cliffs

ii) The Cape Egmont Coastal Unit, which extends from Urenui to Hawera, and is characterised by boulder-strewn platform reefs

iii) The Patea Coastal Unit, which extends from Hawera to Castlecliff and is characterised by sandy beaches backed by Tertiary mudstone cliffs.

The proposed marine reserve is located in the Cape Egmont coastal unit. The coastal geology in this unit is dominated by the Quaternary volcanic deposits that make up the Taranaki Ring Plain. These volcanic sediments have mostly been deposited in debris avalanche events (lahars) that distribute a heterogenous assemblage of pyroclastic material (e.g. gravels-boulders and breccia clasts) cemented within a weak mud -ash matrix. Erosion of the matrix has left a rocky apron that has been reworked by the coastal processes under successive transgressive / regressive sea -level fluctuations (Alloway et al., in prep.).

The Taranaki shoreline and intertidal regions, from Urenui to Hawera, predominantly feature the boulders, cobbles and pebbles eroded out of the laharic breccias that form the low coastal cliffs. The rocky coastline is interspersed with numerous sandy beaches, and even on the rocky shores much of the high tide zone is sandy.

The only offshore islands in this region are the Sugar Loaf Island group. The geology of these islands indicates that they are the eroded stumps of a volcano formed nearly 2 million years ago. The islands are the remains of domes formed when fluid larva pierced the volcano, and formed harder outcrops on the oldest volcano in a series, Mt Taranaki being the youngest, initiating 120,000 years ago. Paritutu was formed by an extruded spine of larva. The Paritutu Headland extends some 1.8 km from the regional coastal alignment, causing a significant impact on the local coastal processes (McComb, 2001). These hard ‘intrusive’ andesitic structures provide shelter in their lee and afford a stable and vertically expressive substratum for the benthic ecology.

10 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

3.2 CLIMATE

New Zealand's climate is complex and is strongly influenced by the oceanic environment. Typically, the dominant weather pattern that affects the Taranaki region is the eastward migration of anticyclones at 5-7 day intervals, separated by low- pressure troughs. Anticyclones account for settled conditions, which occur about 25% of the time, with the rest of the weather being determined by the low -pressure systems (Harris, 1990; Maunder, 1970) with accompanying high winds and heavy precipitation. The path of anticyclones across New Zealand exhibits a seasonal variation, with anticyclonic influences extending further south during the summer and autumn months. Patterns are further modified in response to El Niño / Southern Oscillation (ENSO) events whereby an El Niño event typically results in a west-southwest anomaly superimposed on the ‘normal’ wind conditions, causing strengthened and more frequent west-southwesterly winds. For a La Niña event the opposite is generally true, and this results in an east-northeasterly wind field anomaly. At New Plymouth, the winds are predominantly from two quarters; the west – southwest and the southeast [Figure 3.1].

Figure 3.1 Annual wind rose for the New Plymouth airport.

3.3 PHYSICAL OCEANOGRAPHY

The waves, currents and marine sediment dynamics at New Plymouth have been considered by several authors, the most recent being the Ph.D. research of McComb (2001). In summary, the Taranaki coast has a high energy wave climate due to its exposure to long period waves originating in the Southern Ocean, as well as locally generated seas. Most of the wave energy arrives from the west and southwest wit h

peak spectral periods of 12-14 seconds. The mean annual significant wave height (Hs) offshore of New Plymouth is 1.75m, and the wave climate has a strong seasonal trend

[Table 3.1]. The most energetic month is August (mean Hs 2.04m), and the least

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energetic month is February (mean Hs 1.40m). While storm activity is more frequent in the late winter period, energetic wave conditions can occur at any time of the year.

Table 3.1 Statistics of the monthly and annual significant wave height (m) offshore of New Plymouth as defined by wave hindcasting (1979-1999) (Gorman et al., 2003).

Month Mean Median Month Mean Median Hs (m) Hs (m) Hs (m) Hs (m) January 1.41 1.27 August 2.04 1.89 February 1.40 1.30 September 2.01 1.86 March 1.59 1.43 October 1.95 1.83 April 1.67 1.52 November 1.68 1.51 May 1.95 1.75 December 1.47 1.35 June 1.86 1.70 Annual 1.75 1.58 July 1.94 1.72

The circulation regime at New Plymouth was summarised by McComb (2001) as follows. In the offshore regions beyond the influence of coastal indentations and irregular bathymetry (i.e. >20m depth), currents are frequently strong (i.e. exceeding 50cms-1), externally forced, parabathic and typically feature reversals in direction at 2-5 day intervals. In the close nearshore regions (i.e. <5 -10m depths), currents are considerably weaker and are often sheltered by the coastal indentations. Flows here are predominantly wave-driven and are periodically strong near the raised subtidal reefs during periods of high waves (i.e. >30cms-1). In between these two regions is a zone of intermediate flows that are principally derived from shelf -driven currents and local wind-forcing. Tidal currents are typically <10cms -1.

Tides at New Plymouth are mixed semi-diurnal, with a spring tidal range of 3.1m and a neap range of 1.7m. High Water Springs (MHWS) is 3.51m above Chart Datum (CD), and Mean Low Water Springs (MLWS) is 0.43m above CD. Lowest Astronomical Tide (LAT) is approximated by the zero of the Port Tarana ki tide gauge, which is 0m CD.

3.4 SEAWATER PROPERTIES

Taranaki coastal waters are frequently turbid, which is due to the combination of high rainfall and siltation from run-off due to regional land management practices. The input of fine (mud-silt) fluvial sediments into the ocean reduces the primary productivity of the local coastal marine environment through increased attenuatio n of the incident sunlight (Mead and McComb, 2003; Cole et al., in prep.). These fine fluvial sediments slowly settle out of the water column, and McComb et al. (2003) have observed a Holocene depositional lens up to 9m thick between water depths of 20m and 40m offshore of Waitara. Fine fluvial sediments are likely to be re -suspended in stormy conditions. Accordingly, the width of the turbid coastal zone varies according to the swell, tide, wind and river flows. Further offshore the water clarity is improved, and the exposed and open nature of this coast means that cross -shelf water exchange is effective and frequent. Clear oceanic wat er is observed near the shore under certain wind and current conditions (e.g. upwelling in strong, persistent SE winds), and often in the settled weather conditions of late summer.

12 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

Regular sea surface temperature (SST) measurements (~6m below sea surface) have been made at Port Taranaki (3 times per week from 1990 – 1999, and hourly from 1999). From these data, monthly mean temperature values are given in Table 3.2. The mean annual temperature is 15.5 oC, and the range is from 11.0 to 23.2 oC.

Table 3.2 Expected monthly mean sea surface temperatures at the proposed reserve.

Month Mean Month Mean January 18.3 July 12.9 February 19.2 August 12.9 March 18.3 September 13.3 April 17.1 October 14.4 May 15.7 November 15.5 June 13.9 December 16.7

3.5 INTERTIDAL AND SUBTIDAL HABITAT OF THE PROPOSED RESERVE

There are a number of distinct habitat types within the proposed marine reserve, and these are presented in the following figures and described here, along with summary descriptions of the natural values of each of the habitat types. This information has been derived from a range of sources, including SLIMPA reports, side scan sonar and habitat mapping undertaken within the SLIMPA for DOC (Immenga et al., 2001), regular DOC ecology surveys, SCUBA survey of 13 sites in the proposed marine reserve area by Cooper (2002), and an intertidal ecology survey by Hayward and Morley (2001). The most recent, side scan sonar mapping of the proposed reserve, coupled with dropped video imagery of 323 sites, was undertaken in 2004 specifically for this application. See Figure 3.7, and the CD-ROM.

Intertidal habitat

The proposed reserve has a 6.5km shoreline. There are intertidal rocky platforms over two thirds of the length, interspersed with sand areas, the longest beach area being at the northern end, Back Beach.

Hayward and Morley studied the area in 2001, and reported: “The intertidal shore of Taranaki from Urenui around Cape Egmont to Hawera, is almost entirely boulder - lined, consisting of hard andesite boulders, cobbles and pebbles eroded out of the laharic breccias that form the low coastal cliffs. The laharic breccias were formed by lahars that flowed down from Mt Taranaki and its predecessors creating the ring plain that surrounds the mountains. These breccias consist of andesite clasts set in a matrix of relatively soft volcanic mud and sand, which in many places form a wave -cut low- to mid-tidal shore platform on which the boulders and cobbles sit. These low lying shore platforms and gravel deposits extend subtidally. The boulder beaches are interspersed with scattered sand beaches. In some places, as in the western half of the study area, sand forms a high tidal beach separated from the sea by a belt of low tidal

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 13

Figure 3.2 Paritutu Rock, and the longest beach area at the northern end, Back Beach

Figure 3.3 The boulder beaches are interspersed with scattered sand beaches

Figure 3.4 View from the Tapuae; the beach is separated from the sea by a belt of low tidal boulders.

Figure 3.5 View of the dunes bordering the high tide mark at Tapuae

14 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

boulders. Periodically, mobile sand is moved inshore and may bury and smother parts of the boulder shore and underlying rock platform [Figure 3.3], and the organisms adapted to this environment [Figure 3.14]. The intertidal habitat is representative of the Cape Egmont Coastal Unit. North of Waitara, the north Taranaki coast is classified in a different coastal unit, consisting of soft sandstone and mudstone cliffs mostly fronted by long sand beaches.

Paritutu and the Sugar Loaf Islands are distinct from the rest of the Cape Egmont Coastal Unit, being eroded from hard andesite intrusives. They form a group of low sea stacks and islands that provide the firmest and most stable substrate on the Taranaki coast. In the lee of the Sugar Loafs (e.g. Kawaroa Reef and Back Beach) are the most sheltered habitats on the open Taranaki coast and consequently support the most diverse intertidal communities. (Hayward et al., 1999).

Subtidal habitat

The subtidal habitat (waters below the low-tide mark) in the proposed reserve has been recently surveyed using drop video camera mapping techniques [Figure 3.7] as well as sidescan sonar imagery [Figure 3.8]. Additionally, Cooper (2002) made 13 spot dives in the area. The location of these sites is shown on Figure 3.9.

Within the proposed reserve boundaries, some 34% of the seabed is rocky reef, and the survey data suggest that this habitat is predominantly a cobble and boulder platform that is typical of the North Taranaki Bight. Within this rocky zone there is significant variability in the seabed complexity, and much of which is due to the way in which the volcanic agglomerate has been eroded. Mead and McComb (200 2) examined the relationship between seabed complexity and number and abu ndance of benthic species in a large subtidal study at Motunui (near Waitara). They found that both the number and abundance of species was directly related to the complexity of the seabed. Thus, regions of high relief, such as large boulders or ledges and crevasses in the intact lahar, have the highest density and variety of benthic organisms. Using the same classification scheme as Mead and McComb (2002), a map of the seabed complexity within the proposed reserve is presented in Figure 3. 11. It is expected that the density and variety of benthic organisms will have a similar distribution.

Figure 3.6 Rock outcrop near Seal Rocks

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 15

One of the reasons for the rich ecology surrounding the SLIMPA is the very high complexity of the seabed in this area, coupled with the considerable amount of vertical relief that is present. As can be seen from Figures 3.8 and 3.10, a significant amount of rocky outcrop occurs within the proposed marine reserve area, particularly around Tokatapu (Castle Rock), Waikaranga (Seal Rocks), Koruanga (Shilling Reef) and Sixpence Reef. Because of this high habitat complexity a diverse range of flora and fauna is represented within these areas.

Table 3.3 The percentage of habitat type within each of three North Taranaki regions surveyed by drop video. Motunui data from Mead and McComb (2002), New Plymouth data from ASR (unpub.). N=number of drop video sites.

Habitat features Marine reserve (N=323) New Plymouth (N=246) Motunui (N=498) Seaweeds 21 34 - Coralline 9 36 - Kelp 7 25 5 Rock 34 68 50 Sand 66 33 50

Figure 3.7 The locations of the 323 drop video sites within the area of the proposed marine reserve

16 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

Data still to be collected

Figure 3.8 Areas of rock and boulder reef (red) as defined by side scan sonar survey.

Figure 3.9 Areas of the kelp Ecklonia radiata.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 17

Figure 3.10 Rock and sand habitats revealed by the drop video survey.

Figure 3.11 Index of the seabed complexity in the proposed marine reserve.

18 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

Figure 3.12 Dive survey sites made by Cooper (2002).

3.6 BIODIVERSITY

Appendix 4 is the species list for the area. Because of the high habitat complexity a diverse range of flora and fauna is represented within the subtidal areas. For example Cooper (2002) observed that at the western end of Waikaranga (Seal Rocks) the flapjack seaweed fringe extends down to a depth of 3m. Below this is a zone dominated by turfing and encrusting coralline algae, filamentous red algae, small brown algae, hydroids [Figure 3.16] compound ascidians and jewel anemones. Kina, Cook’s turban, Trochus and spotted topshells are also abundant. Below depths of 10m, sponges (including Ancorina alata), compound ascidians and encrusting coralline algae dominate with the pink cats eye a common species found. Common reef fish include scarlet wrasse, spotty, banded wrasse, red moki, blue cod and marblefish [Figures 3.17, 3.18 and 3.19].

The scattered rocky reefs south of the SLIMPA are covered with macroalgae ( Ecklonia radiata [Figure 3.15] and Carpophyllum mashalocarpum), sponges, and bryozoans. Kina, sea cucumbers, molluscs (chitons, whelks, Cook’s turban) and starfish forage (Cooper, 2002).

The reefs support communities of mussels in varying numbers. Triplefins and other reef associated fish (e.g. red moki, butterfly perch, red banded perch, scarlet wrasse, spotty, slender roughy) and short tailed stingray have been observed. Pelagic species such as John Dory, kingfish, kahawai, gurnard, snapper, trevally, mullet and kelpie are found in this area. These are associated with boulder fields, a distinctive feature of the Taranaki coast.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 19

There are 88 species of fish and 33 species of encrusting sponges recorded within the SLIMPA. One species of sponge (Latrunculia sp) has bio-active properties and therefore may be important for medicinal purposes. A variety of hydroids [Figure 3.16] and anemones also occur. Twenty eight species of bryozoans have been identified. There are nine species of nudibranch (sea slug), including at least one undescribed species. Other common fauna include spiny lobster, common crabs, echinoderms and molluscs.

Studies of the subtidal area in SLIMPA (1986), and the south west extension (1991) by the New Plymouth Underwater Club for SLIMPIMC (1991) show a relatively diverse and healthy marine community typical of the Cape Egmont Coastal Unit. In less than 25 metres of water, expanses of sand support beds of hors e mussel and are studded with burrows of mantis shrimps, tube worms and burrowing bivalves A further underwater survey (Cooper, 2002) indicated diverse habitats and provided the baseline survey for future comparative work. Patchy areas of boulder and congl omerate rocky reef, interspersed with sand or gravel, support a diversity of organisms.

Hayward and Morley (2001) recorded 109 additional species for the area, bringing the current combined subtidal and intertidal total for the proposed reserve to 418 (including 100 gastropods, 88 fish, 50 seaweeds, 36 bivalves, 35 sponges, 28 bryozoa, 24 echinoderms, 14 crabs and shrimps, 11 chitons, 13 cnidarians, 8 ascidians, 6 barnacles). This study provides the first records from the west coast of the North Island of three gastropods - Cominella quoyana quoyana, Eatoniella globosa and Rissoella cystophora, and extends southwards the previously known geographic range of four other gastropods and two bivalves.

The diversity of intertidal life (172 species) in the rocky h abitats of this area is comparable to that recorded from nearby Kawaroa Reef. The rocky shores around New Plymouth (Kawaroa Reef and Back Beach), which are partially sheltered by Paritutu and the Sugar Loaf Islands, contain the richest and most diverse int ertidal biota of the Taranaki coast (Hayward and Morley, 2001). The landward face of Mataroa/Round Rock is one place where a rich diversity of intertidal biota is found [Figure 3.13].

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Figure 3.13 The intertidal ranges of dominant zoning organisms on the intertidal landward face of Round Rock. (Hayward and Morley, 2001)

Figure 3.14 Common and characteristic organisms of the intertidal western boulder beaches (Hayward and Morley, 2001)

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 21

Figure 3.15 A diver surveying a kelp bed

Figure 3.16 A hydroid tree in a boulder field

Figure 3.17 Sweep, kina and hydroid tree

Figure 3.18 Sweep and red moki on a mobile cobble bottom

Figure 3.19 Wrasse near Seal Rocks

22 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

3.7 OTHER MARINE LIFE

Marine Mammals The Sugar Loaf Islands and associated coastline are an important breeding and haul out site for New Zealand Fur Seals, and contain the northernmost breeding population (Miller and Williams, 2003). Other marine mammals that have been observed are common dolphins, Pilot whales, orca, Humpback whales, Southern Right whales and Maui dolphin.

Figure 3.20 New Zealand Fur Seal

Bird Life The Sugar Loaf Islands are important for nesting seabirds ( DOC, 1997). Although this application excludes Moturoa and Motumahanga/Saddleback, these islands are the major breeding sites for shearwaters, petrels, terns, shags and the threatened reef heron (Egretta sacra), therefore they interrelate with the surrounding marine area.

The inner islands (Motuotamatea/Snapper Rock, Mataora/Round Rock, Pararaki/Seagull Rock) provide nesting habitat for southern black -backed gull, red- billed gull and white-fronted tern. Grey faced petrels occupy burrows on Pararaki/Seagull Rock and Motuotamatea/Snapper Rock.

Grey-faced petrels have been observed nesting on small headlands at Waireka (between Back Beach and Tapuae Reef) in 1991. Mainland nesting sights are extremely rare, and this colony has not persisted. In 1993, a new colony was reported established on Snapper Rock, possibly the Waireka colony relocated in response to predators (Hartley, pers. comm. 2001.). Black-backed gulls nest along the southwestern coast of the proposed reserve, and Northern blue penguins come ashore at night to shelter (SLIMPIMC, 1991).

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 23

4 Cultural, Amenity and Commercial Values

This section describes the range of cultural, amenity and commercial values in the proposed reserve area. The implications for these values when designating the area as a reserve are discussed in Section 6, ‘Implications for Existing and Future Users’.

4.1 CULTURAL VALUES

Kaimoana makes this coast significant for tangata whenua. Ngati Te Whiti call the islands ‘Ngā Motu’. Ngā Mahanga a Tairi call the general area ‘Tapuae’.

The rohe boundary between Ngati Te Whiti (of Te Atiawa), and Ngā Mahanga a Tairi (of Taranaki) is in this area.

The Ngā Motu Islands are of cultural significance to the tangata whenua , containing wahi tapu (sacred places) and having ancestral and historical connections.

There are at least 13 known wahi tapu sites within 100 metres of the foreshore adjoining the proposed marine reserve area. (NPDC, 2002) . Additionally,

 There is a known urupā (burial site) on the submerged reef, Koruanga, which is sometimes referred to as Motukuku (DOC, 1997 a).

 The Tapuae area is the site of Whiro’s landing place in AD 1270 (SLIMPIMC, 1991).

 Three petroglyphs (Maori rock carvings) can be found in the volcanic andesite rocks near Waireka and Tapuae (SLIMPIMC, 1991).

 The density of pa sites along the coastal area is historically significant (DOC, 1997a).

The area has been associated with trading and whaling since 1828, when a number of European traders and whalers, including Dicky Barrett, based themselves in the area.

4.2 AMENITY VALUES

a. Viewscapes The Tapuae Reserve area is a scenic local landmark, having the only significant islands on the west coast, north of Kapiti. The people of the Taranaki region value highly the distinctive views of the Sugar Loaf Islands. Four car parks and Centennial Drive provide public access to the views.

The entire foreshore is Harbour Reserve. A significant portion of the land abutting the proposed Marine Reserve is in public ownership, including Paritutu Centennial Park, and is managed by Department of Conservation and the New Plymouth District Council. Therefore, it is unlikely that private development will significantly alter

24 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

these seascape values. Dow Agro Sciences, Omata Tank Farms and five private owners are neighbours to the proposed reserve area. b. Recreational Uses The area is 5 minutes drive from the centre of New Plymouth and is frequently used for a wide variety of purposes. Access to the sea is by way of the boat ramp at Port Taranaki.

Non-extractive uses of the area include  swimming, diving, yachting, surfing, kayaking, underwater photography, boating with small children, snorkelling, passing through by boat, jet skiing, and occasional power boat racing;

 walking, rock climbing, bird watching, viewing, showing visitors, relaxing, teaching, seal watching, picnicking, weddings, art, camping, scientific study, walking dogs, paragliding, remote control aeroplanes, horse riding and motorbikes. Extractive use includes surfcasting, kaimoana gathering, recreational fishing, diving, long-lining and spearfishing.

Several surveys of recreational activity have been conducted.

In the first, in 1990, the Taranaki Regional Council conducted random interviews of boat occupants at the Lee Breakwater on two occasions, one being the Taranaki open fishing competition and the other on Waitangi Day 1990. 80% of respondents had been engaged in recreational fishing, and 9% had been diving. The percentage of those using the SLIMPA during the fishing co mpetition was 11%, and the report recognised that proximity was of secondary importance to the quality and quantity of catch. The Waitangi Day survey found that 41% of respondents concentrated their recreational fishing around the Sugar Loaf Islands, “probably combining fishing with the scenic attraction within the area”.

The second survey was conducted by the Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society in 1999, in order to ascertain the use of the area. The returned surveys, “Have your Say”, indicated that of one hundred and forty-three responses, recreational non-extractive use was 65%, and extractive use was 35%. See Appendix 3; 2.1.

The third survey was an observational beach survey, conducted by the Nga Motu Marine Reserve Society, held at peak holiday time during the last week of December 1999 and first week of January 2000, by taking beach walks between Tapuae Stream and Back Beach. The value of the survey was limited, as it could only record those boats observed from beach level. The combined sea and land non-extractive use was 83%; extractive use was 17%, with on-shore fishing accounting for 7% of this extractive use. See Appendix 3; 2.2.

The fourth survey, which ran over two summers, 2001-2002 and 2003-2004, was designed to record summer boat activity, the destination of boats leaving the ramp at Port Taranaki and shore-based activity (Smith, in preparation). See Appendix 3; 2.4. Boat location was noted using the draft marine reserve proposal boundaries. High levels of boat activity were strongly related to good weather. Weekends also encouraged recreation. Shore-based recreation was recorded along the shore from the power station and along Back Beach, as far as could be seen with binoculars.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 25

The key findings of this survey were:

 2% of all boats at sea were fishing and diving in the proposed reserve area in 2001-2, and 5% of all boats in 2003-4. Long-line buoys and cray-pots could not be accurately counted, but were observed over the entire area.

 The portion of SLIMPA outside the proposed reserve (Saddleback Island and Moturoa Island) was popular, with statistically significant greater use, than the proposed marine reserve area. In 2001-2, 6% of all boats were in the Saddleback/Moturoa area of SLIMPA and 3% were in the proposed marine reserve portion of SLIMPA. In 2003-4, 10% of all boats were in the Saddleback/Moturoa area of SLIMPA while 8% were in the marine reserve portion of SLIMPA.

 Almost all of the land based recreation was non-extractive, 96.6% in 2001-2, and 99.3% in 2003-4. Sitting, walking (often with dogs), sunbathing, and surfing were the most popular activities. The number of vehicles and visitors to the area was seen to be markedly increased in the second year.

 Surfcasters comprised 3% of shore-based users observed in the reserve area in 2001-2, dropping to only 0.5% in 2003-4, probably due to the unsuitable weather during that summer.

The southwest end is accessible by foot, and is valued for its secluded atmosphere since it is cut off by high tides. There are discussions in progress to enhance New Plymouth’s recreational values with an artificial surf/dive reef and beach, and a marina. This is likely to put pressure on ‘un-improved’ areas close to the city valued for their low impact recreational opportunities. The proposed marine reserve area is one such place. c. Educational Uses Primary and secondary schools, and the tertiary education provider, WITT, use the area for study. Accessibility is an important factor. It is a living classroom with sites demonstrating zonation of rocky shores and the dune area at Tapuae showing successional seres. The proposed marine reserve area has good potential to be a part of the ‘GLOBE’ Project (an international educational programme to encourage school participation in environmental monitoring) if the Ministry of Education were involved. Nga Motu Marine Reserve Society has already developed educational material highlighting the ecological values of the area (Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, 1999, 2003).

DOC, TRC, NIWA, Waikato University and oil companies e.g. TCPL (1989) and Shell, have all conducted scientific studies within the area. Some involve ongoing monitoring. Protecting the rich marine life and diversity of habitat of an area in close proximity to the Port is a key focus of many of these projects.

26 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

4.3 COMMERCIAL VALUES

Red rock lobsters, Jasus edwardsii (referred to in scientific papers as spiny lobsters) are caught commercially in the south west area, involving two quota holders. This is part of the CRA 9 Westland-Taranaki quota area, which ranges from Kaipara Harbour to near Okarito, Westland.

Historically, wharehou have been caught by set netting in the SW Extension (part of the wider area from New Plymouth to Wellington). There are few set nets at present, and these are generally set by recreational fishers. However this could change with the recent banning of nets north of Pukearuhue (Bryan Williams, pers. comm., DOC, June 2004).

There is one popular tourism operation that includes seal watching and sea kayaking called ‘Chaddy's Charters’. Two other operators (Taranaki Outdoor Adventures and Taranaki Canoe and Kayaks) have applied for marine watching permits within the area of the proposed marine reserve.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 27

5 Justification for the Proposed Reserve

5.1 MEETS THE PURPOSE OF MARINE RESERVES ACT 1971

The proposed Tapuae Marine Reserve area meets the purposes of the Marine Reserves Act, 1971. Section 3 (1) of the Act declares that marine reserves have the purpose of preserving areas of New Zealand that contain underwater scenery, natural features, or marine life, of such distinctive quality, or so typical, or beautiful, or unique, that their continued preservation is in the national interest.

The area proposed contains underwater scenery, natural features, and marine life that are of distinctive quality and typical of the intertidal and subtidal environment of the exposed Taranaki Bight. As such, its continued preservation is in the national interes t.

With respect to this application, no marine farming lease or license has been issued for any part of the proposed reserve, and no part of the proposal falls within the jurisdiction of a harbour board, other than navigation purposes. This reserve meets other legislative requirements of section 4 (1) and (2) of the Marine Reserves Act 1971.

5.2 BOUNDARY SELECTION

The boundary for the proposed reserve was selected to most effectively conserve significant marine biodiversity and provide representation of marine ecosystems, while addressing the concerns of tangata whenua, fishers and public interest groups. The derivation of boundaries has been assisted by the findings from a number of scientific studies that have been conducted in this area. The boundaries for a marine reserve meet the criteria for a marine reserve, in that they:

1. Are biologically relevant

2. Include a biological and geographical representation of the region’s coastline

3. Are of sufficient size and depth to adequately protect all marine life and to allow for restoration of marine life to a ‘natural state’

4. Are readily accessible for scientific research and public enjoyment

5. Are sited to minimise impact on existing user groups without compromising the integrity of the reserve.

Discussion and compromise has led to the exclusion of Paritutu, Moturoa and Motumahanga/Saddleback from the proposed reserve, although the region still includes representative examples of all the habitats and many of the special features identified in the scientific studies. The length of shore line and area under 15m depth has been reduced by these compromises, such that only 6.5km of shoreline is included, which is less than the preferred 10km length suggested by Davidson et al. (2001). 28 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

These boundaries have been chosen to minimi se impact upon existing user groups, while endeavouring not to compromise the integrity of the reserve. In particular, boundary changes were incorporated to:

 Exclude important areas for gathering of kaimoana, based on input by the tangata whenua; and

 Maintain opportunities for sheltered recreational fishing within close proximity of New Plymouth, by excluding Moturoa and Motumahanga Islands.

The discussion paper, ‘Suggested Marine Reserve Sites on the North Taranaki Coast’ (Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, 2000) gives an overview of the legislative management and biodiversity outcomes of eight proposed locations, and the issues raised about each site during consultation. Option 7 , Paritutu to Tapuae, was viewed by the committee as having the most likelihood of support, and as still meeting the principles of marine reserves (Ballantine 1997, 1999). The Option 7 boundaries were modified to a rectangle after the Marine Forum held in November 2003, on advice from scientists and marine reserve managers at Leigh and Kapiti regarding both habitat and compliance. Boundaries have been chosen to make cartographic sense for boat users. The map uses only two offshore GPS points for simplicity, which gives clarity for compliance. The proposed boundaries contain uninterrupted areas of habitat to allow organisms to occupy their widest natural range . See Section 3.5.

5.3 DISTINCTIVE QUALITY OF THE AREA

The SLIMPA area in particular, contains very diverse habitats of rocks, canyons, caves, crevices, overhangs, boulder fields, sand, mud, and lahar reefs, supporting a great variety of marine animal and algal life. The northernmost (breeding) colony of New Zealand fur seal resides in the SLIMPA area. T he SLIMPA zone protrudes from the regional Taranaki coastline (some 1.8km) and is well -flushed by the oscillating alongshore currents. Clear, oceanic water often impinges on this region. The Taranaki public endorse this high value, which is reflected in local authority policy statements and Fisheries and Conservation management plans.

The proposed area fulfils the criteria in Section 3 of the Marine Reserves Act, where the purpose of marine reserves is to protect areas of sea, seabed and intertidal zones for the “scientific study of marine life”. Accordingly, the proposed reserve would provide a valuable site for scientific study by the region ’s education facilities, as well as national tertiary institutes.

There is an existing body of scientific research that has been conducted in this area over the last 30 years - the presence of which effectively demonstrates the value of this environment for such studies.

5.4 AN AREA TYPICAL OF THE TARANAKI COAST

The seabed to the south west of the SLIMPA is typical of much of the benthic habitat that is found around the Taranaki headland. These features include reefs, cobbles and Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 29

sandy areas (Section 3.5) extending to wave–cut platforms below the low coastal cliffs. The island habitats are unique to this part of New Zealand, and to date none are represented in a marine reserve. It should be noted that the proposed Paraninihi Marine Reserve (in North Taranaki) is in a different oceanic environment and features a mudstone and sandstone substrate, rather than the volcanic breccia apron that dominates the North and South Taranaki coasts.

The proposed Tapuae Marine Reserve would therefore fit with the Department of Conservation's policy to establish a network of marine reserves incorporating representative examples of the full range of habitats and ecosystems found i n New Zealand's marine environment (DOC, 1997b).

5.5 ECOLOGICAL JUSTIFICATION

The proposed Tapuae reserve represents an area of concentrated ecological value in close proximity to a large and growing population centre. A marine reserve for this area is seen as an ecological insurance to conserve its known high ecological and biodiversity values in the face of increasing pressures from local fishing and other harvesting of marine life. Marine reserves also provide resilience against known and unknown future effects on the marine environment e.g., from the adjacent port (Ballantine, 1997; Ballantine, 1999; Roberts and Hawkins, 2000).

The significant ecological and geological values of the area are well -documented, including a large number of species and a diversity of habitats in an area that is unique along the west coast. The benefits would not only be to individual species, but would help to restore the balance of marine life in the area, which would contribute to the overall health of the marine ecosystem.

Providing robust populations of organisms provides elasticity to allow for recovery from disturbance. For example, natural movement of sand in large quantities along the coast impacts on, and kills off many marine organisms. It is a natural process with known effects. Hayward and Morley (2001) found that once sand cover recedes the previous diversity of intertidal life can be expected to re -colonise and return within a few years, reseeded from unaffected refuges both locally and more distant. Globally, marine reserves have been shown to provide essential sanctuaries for marine life that contributes to resilience and resistance to changing environmental conditions and increasing levels of use.

5.6 FULL RESERVE STATUS COMPARED TO PARTIAL PROTECTION

A marine reserve at Tapuae is considered preferable to the partial protection afforded by the current SLIMPA regulations, since a reserve conserves the health and diversity of the entire ecosystem, including targeted species. A study by Denny et al. (2003) from the Poor Knights area provided evidence that partial fishing regulations are ineffective at protecting targeted species, at least where recreational and commercial fishers target the same species. This presents an argument against the widely held view that recreational fishing cannot affect fish populations.

30 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

Other scientific studies in New Zealand and overseas have shown that no-take areas provide greater conservation values than areas under partial protection (Kelly et al., 2000; Babcock et al., 1999; Gell and Roberts, 2002). Partial fishing restrictions at Mimiwhangata Marine Park in Northland have been shown to be ineffective at protecting species targeted by fishing (Denny and Babcock, 2004). Indeed, “the numbers of fish show no improvement despite 17 years of Marine Park status and no commercial fishing since 1994” (Roger Grace, 2002). Recent studies by researchers from Leigh Marine laboratory have confirmed this observation, supplemented with further evidence that recreational fishing is not allowing the marine life at Mimiwhangata to recover towards a more natural state (Grace , 2002).

Miller et al., (in press) have reported that a greater abundance of blue cod, a targeted species, was observed within the no-take Conservation Area of the SLIMPA, and concluded that the fishing restrictions within the rest of the SLIMPA do not provide protection for target species such as blue cod. Research in the Poor Knights during the change from partial protection to full marine reserve status “demonstrates that the partial closures at the Poor Knights Islands were ineffective as conservation tools for snapper” (Denney et al., 2004).

The creation of a no-take reserve could further protect spiny lobster Jasus edwardsii in the Conservation Area by extending a buffer zone out beyond the rocky reef habitat. Local research has shown that there are significant differences between the current small Conservation Area of Seal Rocks/Waikaranga and the rest of the SLIMPA (DOC unpublished data). Spiny Lobsters (J. edwardsii) have been observed to increase in abundance and size in several marine reserves in New Zealand, in studies comparing similar habitats within protected and unprotected areas (Babcock et al., 1999; Davidson et al., 2001; Kelly et al., 2000; Kelly 1999; Stewart and MacDairmid, 2003).

The Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Committee considers that increased protection in this area of particularly diverse habitat is the most effective approach to maintaining the sustainability of this area in the long term.

5.7 BENCHMARK FOR SCIENTIFIC STUDY

A marine reserve would also serve a practical purpose of providing an important benchmark for the purposes of scientific study. The proposed area would act as an undisturbed nursery area for marine life, providing a control area for scienti fic study from which to assess the effectiveness of fisheries management (as suggested by Babcock et al., 1999) and conservation. The boundaries of the proposed Tapuae Marine Reserve would provide three distinct zones for scientific comparison:

 the marine reserve itself (which includes half of the SLIMPA area)

 an area of restricted fishing activity in the remaining portion of the SLIMPA

 open fishing in the surrounding waters.

Similar habitat is found in all three zones, allowing a direct comparison of changes in populations due to management to be made without the confounding effect of habitat differences. The effect of a marine reserve on adjacent customary areas could also be monitored. Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 31

Studies that compare different management approaches can provide valuable feedback to fisheries managers in their attempts to ensure a sustainable fishery (Babcock et al . 1999). The Ministry of Fisheries Draft Strategy For Managing the Environmental Effects of Fishing (2003) noted that the “current paucity of information on many associated or dependent species meant that it may be difficult for fisheries managers to demonstrate that the fishery is allowing these species to be maintained above viable levels. Fishery managers may be faced with the choice of undertaking ex tensive studies on a wide range of associated or dependent species to demonstrate that the effects of the fishery on these species are within acceptable limits, or setting aside adequate areas as no-fishing or restricted fishing zones to ensure the viabili ty of the species”.

5.8 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION

a. Consultation with tangata whenua The proposed reserve gives regard to the Treaty of Waitangi as required by the Conservation Act, Section 4. Throughout the consultation process every effort has been made to work with tangata whenua to protect and improve biodiversity, and at the same time, maintain customary rights and access to traditional areas, which is of paramount concern to Ngā Mahanga a Tairi and Ngati Te Whiti, tangata whenua with kaitiakitanga for the area. The hapu have engaged in open dialogue with the Marine Reserve Society to ensure that their interests have been incorporated into the application and selection of boundaries. Ngati Te Whiti Hapu Society in 2002 formally agreed to continue dialogue with the Marine Reserve Society on the establishment of a nursery area for kaimoana between Herekawe Stream and Paritutu. They suggested the name Ngā Motu-Tapuae Marine Reserve. Ngati Te Whiti Ahi Kaa has identified a current customary fishing area at the Paritutu boundary, and this was excluded from the reserve after a visit with the Kaitiaki, Tom McCulloch.

Ngā Mahanga a Tairi has informally endorsed the proposal, subject to a hui to confirm this. They prefer Tapuae as the name for the marine reserve, as it refers to the special significance of the entire proposal area.

b. Consultation with the general public and stakeholders i. The Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society published one thousand public discussion pamphlets and accompanying survey forms, plus a newspaper article and clip-coupon (circulation 26,000); to be returned by post from July 1999 to April 2000. A letterbox drop was made in the Omata are a and the suburb adjoining Paritutu/Centennial Park, the immediate vicinity of the proposed reserve, to ensure that rate-payers and residents most affected by the proposal would be aware of the proposal and have an opportunity to provide feedback (as per the recommendations of Wolfenden et al. 1994). 75% of those who returned the forms supported the proposed area, with 8 7% supporting the principle of marine reserves. Responses indicated non-extractive use to be 65%, and extractive to be 35%. Detailed information on the results of this survey is in Appendix 3.

ii. In February 2001, the Society published a document entitled ‘Suggested Marine Reserve Sites on the North Taranaki Coast’ which identified eight options for marine reserve locations. The Society formally discussed these options with

32 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

tangata whenua, the Fisheries Liaison Committee, Regional and Local Authorities and interest groups. The document was also widely available for public inspection. Based on these discussions, one particular option (Option 7, Paritutu to the Tapuae Stream, overlapping the western half of the SLIMPA area) was viewed by the committee as having the most likelihood of support of tangata whenua and public, while still meeting the principles of marine reserves (Ballantine, 1997, 1999). iii. In September 2001 the ‘Proposal to create a Marine Reserve in the area of Ngā Motu, Taranaki - Draft Document for Discussion’ was published and widely circulated throughout the Taranaki community. Submissions on this document, 52 supporting and 67 opposing, raised similar issues to previous discussions, and this feedback provided an opportunity for careful consideration of all the issues. The analysis of responses was independently verified by a Justice of the Peace, Harvey Hingston (details of responses are shown in Appendix 3). The main concerns were put forward by recreational fishers and centred on the perceived reduction in opportunities in the SLIMPA for sheltered recreational fishing at sea, surfcasting and shore-based gathering. This highlighted the need for further discussion on ways to address the concerns of the fishing community. iv. A marine forum was held in November 2003 with Dr Ken Grange and Mr Chris Turver, from the Kapiti Marine Reserve Management Committee, to discuss the progress of the only marine reserve on the energetic west coast, and how their local community has come to support it. I nterest groups were invited to a meeting to identify common ground, and seek ways to progress to the statutory stage. Stakeholders’ concerns were discussed, the issues being: choice of boundaries, compliance issues, size of the reserve, reasons for surfcaster and recreational fishers’ opposition, the impacts on industry, and the perceived increase in seal numbers. An additional public meeting “The Kapiti Experience” was also held. See Appendix 3 for details on the forum.

As a direct result of the stakeholders’ forum, the proposed boundaries were revised in order to facilitate compliance while conserving the range of habitats.

Representatives from tangata whenua and scientists agreed that we must all take a long term view, be mindful of concerns expressed at the forum, and seek compromises, where feasible to accommodate the other interests in the area .

Questionnaires called “Seeking Common Ground” were distributed at the meetings. A sixth of these were returned, and overwhelmingly agreed that “no- take” reserves benefit biodiversity and allow scientific comparison of fished and unfished areas. Half supported the present proposal, and the others preferred to keep the status quo.

A number of recreational fishers have concerns about the proposed reserve, perceiving that it will reduce fishing opportunities. The Society has met with those concerned on numerous occasions to discuss and seek resolution of the ir issues. Recreational fishers have been kept informed of the progress of the marine reserve application and invited to events, including the marine forum. In general, recreational fishers support marine protection as they believe that the existing regulations have benefited fish populations in the SLIMPA, with Seal

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 33

Rocks Conservation Area showing the greatest improvement. However, many do not support an upgrade to reserve status because they are unwilling to accept any reduction in existing fishing opportunities. The Society feels there is no further accommodation that can be made to reconcile this issue without compromising the integrity of the reserve.

v. The Society has conducted a survey to determine the recreational activity in the area, and extractive use, based on observations of boat and beach activity during summer. Results have shown no more than 5% of the total boats leaving Port Taranaki use the proposed marine reserve area for extractive purposes at any given time. Less than 1% of land based recreation is extractive. See Appendix 3.

vi. Large industries adjoining the proposed reserve have been kept informed, and have offered feedback during the consultation process. The fishing industry and recreational fishing groups have been consulted through the T aranaki Fisheries Liaison Committee meetings, as well as separate meetings with the New Plymouth Sportsfishing and Underwater Club.

34 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

6 Implications for Existing and Future Users

This section of the application describes the economic, social and cultural implications of the marine reserve for existing and future users of the area. It has been prepared in recognition that all aspects of use and management in the area will need to be considered in the establishment of a reserve. In preparing this section, the Applicant has gone to considerable effort to identify and consult with the range of users of the area and its resources.

In general terms, all existing and future users are likely to benefit from:

 Greater abundance of targeted species, for example blue cod, spiny lobster and snapper, return of kelp forests, and reduction of kina dominated barrens. Studies have shown improved habitat and community complexity within marine reserve s (Babcock et al., 1999)

 More accurate monitoring of biodiversity, fish stoc ks, and impacts

 Increased awareness and understanding of the marine environment on their doorstep and the conservation issues associated with maintaining the sustainability of that environment.

6.1 ADJOINING LANDOWNERS

Any discharges from farming operations or land developments are covered by the Resource Management Act and the Regional Coastal Plan for Taranaki (2002).

As the landward boundary of the proposed marine reserve may not extend above the level of mean high water spring tides, it will not encroach upon farming operations.

Existence of the marine reserve would not confer right of access on to, or across private land by the Department of Conservation or the public.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 35

6.2 COMMERCIAL OPERATIONS

There are a number of commercial operations that currently use t he proposed area and would be affected by the establishment of a reserve. The following table summarizes these operations.

Name of Operation Activity Potential impact of Potential benefit marine reserve on of marine reserve operations CRA 9 Fishery: Commercial  Reduction in area Larger, more Westland-Taranaki harvesting of red available for abundant rock rock lobster harvesting lobster moving

outside of the Two crayfishers  Lost harvesting reserve fish in the proposed opportunity reserve area  Need for the small boat operator to return quickly through the reserve in bad weather

Local quota holders Commercial  Reduction in area Larger, more for fish warehou fishery available for fishing abundant fish moving outside of  Lost fishing the reserve opportunity Dow Agro Treated discharge to Greater scrutiny when Increased public Chemicals the Herekawe renewing consent (still regard as the Stream under RMA, no change) company is seen to be environmentally Contact Energy Power Station water None with current aware. inlet and outfall boundary Shell Omata Tank Farm No impact anticipated Westgate Port operations No impact anticipated Chaddy’s Charters Guided sightseeing Reduction in area Higher tourist and educational available for fishing numbers wishing to tours, some trolling visit the reserve for kahawai Commercial Dive Guided dives Reduction in area Potential increase Operations available for extractive in abundance and activity diversity of marine  Blue Line Dive life, enhancing the  New Plymouth dive experience Underwater Eco-tourism Marine viewing No impact anticipated Potential increase operations e.g., tours, kayaking, in abundance and Taranaki Outdoor boat tours, etc diversity of marine Adventures and and other life, Taranaki Canoe and enhancing the Kayak tourism experience

36 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

a. Commercial fishing and red rock lobster harvesting The South West section of the proposed reserve overlaps a very small part of the CRA 9 Westland-Taranaki Fishery (the organization representing rock lobster fishermen); however, it is regarded as significant to them. CRA 9 contends that they will have reduced catch from a reduced spatial area and a displacement of harvesting effort (Gary Levy, Chairperson CRA 9 Industry Ass. Inc., pers. comm., 2001). In their view, the protection objective of marine reserves is met by the Fisheries Act.

The Marine Reserve Society has contacted the two operators that hold rock lobster quotas for the area, to advise them of proposed boundaries and discuss implications of the reserve on their operations (See Appendix 2). At the time of these discussions, the local quota holders recognised there would be a small impact on their operation. Shelter was a safety issue for the small boat owner. Both operators have been invited to make a formal submission to this application.

Adverse effects on lobster fishing are likely to be temporary as red rock lobster are expected to move into areas west of Waikaranga/Seal Rocks from the larger ‘no -take’ area. Research conducted at the Cape Rodney to Okakari Point Marine Reserve near Leigh (Babcock et al., 1999) indicates that red rock lobsters are likely to forage beyond the boundaries. However, this process may take several years.

Similarly, the long-term benefits to the health of the fishery may compensat e for any short-term adverse effect on commercial wharehou fishing. The wharehou spawning area (Bryan Williams pers. comm., 6.6.04) in the south western end would be protected. b. Tourism operations

A marine reserve has the potential to benefit local to urism operations. The Rodney Economic Development Board estimates that the Leigh Marine Reserve contributes $12 million to the regional economy, primarily due to increased tourism activities .

Chaddy’s Charters offers guided sightseeing tours, with some fishing, out of New Plymouth. While a reserve would reduce the range of choices for fishing trips for this business, fishing will still be an option in different areas. At present more of Chaddy’s trips go to Saddleback and Moturoa Islands than to Seal Rocks. At the Nga Motu Marine Reserve Society AGM 2003, owner/operator Dave Chadfield spoke in support of the current proposal.

The establishment of a marine reserve is likely to increase opportunities for tourism activities that involve non-extractive uses, such as diving and eco tourism. Currently two applications are being made for concessions for marine tours to the area (Taranaki Outdoor Adventures and Taranaki Canoe and Kayak).

The NPDC has recently approved plans for the building of an artificial r eef off the Taranaki Coast to the north of the proposed marine reserve area. This development may attract increasing numbers of divers to the area. This economic opportunity would likely be enhanced by a thriving underwater environment within the marine re serve area.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 37

c. Other commercial activities

Proximity to Port Taranaki raises issues of oil spills or other contaminants e.g. the disused Chemical Dump at DOW Agro Chemicals Research Station land at Waireka which is monitored by TRC. This possibility should not preclude creating a marine reserve. Operators are already aware of safe practices under the Resource Management Act. However, marine reserve status for the area should enhance awareness of the sensitivity of the marine environment adjacent to the port, with studies providing information on baseline conditions from which to monitor the environmental effects of any activities associated with the port. The CEO of Westgate, Ron Weaver, was "supportive of the proposal as long as the eastern boundary w as not altered" (pers. comm. 23.4.04) when he met with committee members of the Society.

6.3 RECREATIONAL FISHING

One of the most significant challenges in preparing this application has been addressing the interests of recreational fishermen. The Applicant ha s worked with fishing interests to develop a solution that minimi ses impacts to local fishing opportunities while optimising opportunities for conservation of important marine values.

Surveys of recreational use conducted by the Applicant in 1999 and subsequently in 2002 and 2004 indicated the reserve area itself has low extractive use relative to other areas. Results found that fishing activity is weather dependant, and that most fishers prefer to go beyond SLIMPA, and outside the proposed marine reserve a rea (Smith, in preparation). See Section 4.2b.

Fishing patterns will be altered as a result of the reserve as approximately half of the SLIMPA area is included in the ‘no-take’ area. However, it is hoped that, over time, the benefits of the reserve will enhance fishing opportunities in adjacent areas, resulting in an overall benefit to fishing interests. This likelihood is supported by comparative research in other marine reserves post-establishment. At Tonga Island Marine reserve, Davidson et al. (2001) calculated the number of eggs available to be fertilised to be much greater in the reserve than in the control sites, “Given those estimates of fecundity, a 10km marine reserve has egg production equivalent to an unprotected coastline of 92km length, which is consistent with the study by Kelly et al. in 2000”.

The Taranaki coast is quite exposed. One of the issues raised by recreational fishermen is the importance of being able to fish in an area that is sheltered from wind and swells. One of the reasons why the boundaries of the reserve were revised to exclude the islands of Moturoa and Motumahanga was to maintain opportunities for fishing in a sheltered area.

Surfcasters will lose the area from Paritutu to the boundary north of the Tapuae Stream, however there are other surfcasting areas close to New Plymouth and also further away around the Taranaki coast.

38 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

6.4 CUSTOMARY FISHING

Tangata whenua have expressed a concern about the pressure on customary fishing . There are also reservations that customary rights under the Treaty of Waitangi would be extinguished by a no-take marine reserve. There are two responses to this:

i. Customary rights may not be extinguished, regardless of the designation of this reserve area; they are a right guaranteed to Maori under the Treaty of Waitangi.

Respecting the intent and purpose of the marine reserve would support tangata whenua in their kaitiakitanga/guardianship role. They would be creating a kohanga (nursery area for future stocks) to enhance customary fishing. During consulta tion with the tangata whenua for the area, both Ngati Te Whiti and Ngā Mahanga a Tairi indicated support for the concept of a kohanga as long as adjacent fishing areas were not affected by the reserve.

Under this proposal tangata whenua would be fully inv olved in the management of a Marine Reserve. This is important for tangata whenua to ensure that their interests in sustainable management of kaimoana and managing cultural heritage values are not compromised.

ii. During 2003 the Society explored the possibility of a special provision for customary take for Ngā Mahanga a Tairi. The Society preferred to exclude all current customary fishing areas from the reserve; however Ngā Mahanga a Tairi then asked that the Tapuae Reef be included in the Reserve, at a meeting 20 th August, 2004.

The Society also had discussions with Ngati Te Whiti, both the Hapu Society and Ahi Kaa, and on 9th May 2004 visited Paritutu with Ahi Kaa Kaitiaki Tom McCulloch to identify a boundary that would exclude current customary areas.

At a meeting (17 th January, 2004) the Ngati Te Whiti’s Hapu Society Board was supportive, but they needed to consult further with the hapu.

On 20 and 21st November 2004, Ngati Te Whiti Board and Hapu met and confirmed support for the principle of a marine reserve in the location, and wished to continue discussions with the Minister of Conservation and other iwi.

Ngati Te Whiti requested at a meeting (5 th October, 2004) that the Nga Motu Marine Reserve Society Application incorporate a commitment to the model of review used at Te Tapuwae o Rongokako Marine Reserve, used at 25 year intervals, to test the continuing relevance and appropriateness of the reserve mechanism for future generations. (The Draft Proposal for a marine reserve, 2001, included a similar generational review model, at the request of Ngā Mahanga A Tairi). See Section 7.6.

6.5 OTHER RECREATIONAL USERS

A preliminary consultation with the public on the marine reserve proposal identified that many respondents used the area for non-extractive uses, primarily in the intertidal area. These include beach walking, viewing , picnicking, surfing, swimming,

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 39

recreational diving, and yachting. A marine reserve would not impact these activities and could, in fact, enhance their quality. In particular, diving activities could be enhanced by having an area of abundant marine life c lose to New Plymouth. In addition, the aesthetic quality of the area would be safeguarded by protecting the entire reserve area. The level of recreational use in the area is likely to increase as the local population grows and new access and parking become available.

6.6 PUBLIC ACCESS

There is already good public access to the proposed marine reserve, both by land and by sea. Future public access will not be compromised by the reserve. There are existing car parks at Paritutu, Back Beach, and at Herekawe, where there will shortly be a new toilet. In addition, a number of projects are underway that will enhance public access in the area. The planned new car park at Tapuae Stream and the 1km walking path along the Esplanade Reserve will provide improved access from Surf Highway 45. A marine reserve would complement NPDC plans to extend the coastal walkway to Paritutu. Public access will also be improved with the Taranaki Tree Trust’s Herekawe Stream Project to link SH4 to Back Beach by constructing a public walkway and planting the Herekawe banks to improve water quality. It has been noted that recreation in this area has been increasing (Smith, in preparation) and these walkways will further increase the popularity of the area.

6.7 SCIENTIFIC AND EDUCATIONAL USERS

A marine reserve will provide greater opportunities for the study of marine life, biodiversity and fish stocks in an unmodified environment, provided study activities are consistent with the purposes and principles of the Marine Reserves Act 1971, and the management objectives of the reserve.

It will provide new opportunities for comparison with unprotected areas, which will benefit all users in the long term.

Puke Ariki, local schools, WITT, universities and local marine industries are likely to participate in, and support, research projects.

A marine reserve could also be used in the Ministry of Environment’s Environmental Performance Indicator Programme. It is scientifically important to monitor an undisturbed area, providing a baseline for comparison s.

40 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

7 Proposed Management

7.1 LEVEL OF PROTECTION

There will be absolute protection for all life within in the boundaries of the Tapuae Marine Reserve, with exceptions for approved scientific research, permitted by the Director General of Conservation.

7.2 PUBLIC ACCESS, NAVIGATION AND ANCHORING

The public would have access to the Tapuae Marine Reserve, using the same access routes as are currently available to the area. The proposed area is very accessible for the 47,800 New Plymouth City residents, and is likely to attract visitors from within Taranaki and beyond. The reserve would be outside the navigation lanes that are in the approaches to Port Taranaki. The Department of Conservation could provide mooring buoys for dive boats, where appropriate. The Department of Conservation would deploy buoys and land markers to allow the boundaries of Tapuae Marine Reserve to be identified.

7.3 COMPLIANCE AND LAW ENFORCEMENT

The Department of Conservation would manage compliance of the marine reserve. The experience gained in the administration of the SLIMPA should facilitate a smooth transition to a reserve than would be the case with proposals elsewhere in the country. The public already has a mistaken perception that the area of the SLIMPA is fully protected. Therefore, administration and compliance costs are unlikely to place undue burdens on the Department of Conservation.

7.4 MONITORING AND SCIENTIFIC RESEARCH

Ongoing monitoring will allow an analysis of the effects of the Tapuae Marine Reserve, as baseline studies have already been done by the Department of Conservation, Hayward and Morley (2001) and Cooper (2002).

Research is being conducted in the area, with Ecklonia mapping, reef fish monitoring and invertebrate surveys by the Department of Conservation. Scientists from NIWA and La Trobe University Melbourne visited in 2003 on a Corallina identification trip. Habitat surveys used drop-camera methods and sidescan sonar mapping. This research will be a sound basis for monitoring within the reserve and will provide information allowing more effective management of the reserve.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 41

Figure 7.1 Divers photographing during an invertebrate survey

7.5 EDUCATION AND INTERPRETATION

There is an Interpretation Centre for the SLIMPA near t he Lee Breakwater Boat Ramp, and publications about the area are widely available. These resources can be updated with relative ease to accommodate the information required for the proposed marine reserve. The development of an education and interpretation programme for a marine reserve would be a high priority. Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society has already developed two educational pamphlets and a video , available to schools and public. The District Council (NPDC) proposes to extend the popular coastal walkw ay from the Lee Breakwater to Paritutu in the future. This complementary project is an opportunity for public education and signage.

7.6 ADMINISTRATION

Day-to-day management would be the responsibility of the Department of Conservation. The applicants recommend the establishment by the Minister of Conservation of an Advisory Committee, including representatives of tangata whenua, community groups, Taranaki Fisheries Liaison Committee, scientific interests, conservation interests, and local and regional author ities.

A review at 25 year intervals will be used to test the continuing relevance and appropriateness of the reserve mechanism for future generations.

The management structure would be reviewed at 5 -yearly intervals.

42 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

8 Summary

The Tapuae Marine Reserve application seeks to establish a 1,547ha marine reserve off the New Plymouth coast that encompasses the territorial sea and all internal waters from Paritutu to the Tapuae Reef. The proposed reserve includes half the Sugar Loaf Island/Ngā Motu group and an adjacent section of subtidal and intertidal seabed that is typical of the Taranaki volcanic apron.

The proposed marine reserve would completely protect a range of both distinctive and typical marine habitats and species assemblages. The application satisfies the requirements of the Marine Reserves Act 1971 and would make a significant contribution to the establishment of a marine reserve network that incorporates representative examples of the full range of habitats and ecosystems fo und in New Zealand’s marine environment.

Tapuae Marine Reserve Application 43

9 Acknowledgments

Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society thanks the following organisations for supplying information, or supporting and funding education projects, forums and publications.

- Dr Bill Ballantine from Leigh Marine Reserve Laboratory - Dr Ken Grange - Dr Bruce Hayward - Margaret Morley - Chris Turver - The George Mason Charitable Trust - Kapiti Island Marine Reserve Committee - Lion Foundation - Ron Greenwood Environmental Trust - Royal Forest and Bird Society, North Taranaki Branch - Royal Forest and Bird Society, Waikato Branch - South Pacific Conservation and Environment Trust - Shell Todd Oil Services - TSB Community Trust - Western Institute of Technology at Taranaki - ASR Ltd, Marine Consulting and Research

The Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society warmly acknowledges the many individuals who have patiently supported this project over time, and make s special note of the contribution by the late Peter Winter.

Photographs were contributed by: Ian Cooper Barry Hartley Elizabeth Mills Elise Smith Bryan Williams

44 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application

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Ministry of Fisheries, 1997; updated 2004. Recreational Fishing Rules, Central Fisheries Management Area.

Ministry of Fisheries, 2003. Draft Strategy for Managing the Environmental Effects of Fishing.

Naylor, J.R. and Andrew, N., 2000. Determination o f Growth, Size Composition, and Fecundity of Paua at Taranaki and Banks Peninsula. NZ Fisheries Assessment Report 200/01. Wellington. New Plymouth District Council Proposed District Plan, LINZ Base Map 2002.

New Plymouth Underwater Club, 1986 (revised 1989). Marine Biology of Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Park. Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, 1999. Public Discussion Pamphlet.

Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, 1999. Taranaki Coastal and Marine Life. Video, education notes and pamphlet. Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, 2000. Recreational Use Survey, Dec. 1999 – Feb. 2000.

Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, 2001. Suggested Marine Reserve Sites on the North Taranaki Coast.

Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, September 2001. Proposal to Create a Marine Reserve in the area of Ngā Motu, Taranaki. Draft Document for Discussion. Ngā Motu Marine Reserve Society Incorporated, 2003. Why have marine reserves? Pamphlet.

Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment, 1999. Setting Course for a Sustainable Future, The Management of New Zealand’s Marine Environment.

Roberts, C. M., 1997. Ecological Advice for the Global Fisheries Crisis. TREE, 12: 35-38.

Roberts, C.M. and Hawkins, J.P., 2000. Fully-protected Marine Reserves: A Guide. WWF Endangered Seas Campaign, 1250 24th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA and Environment Department, University of York, York, YO10 5DD, UK.

Royal Forest & Bird Society, What are Marine Protected Areas? http://www.forestandbird.org.nz [Accessed 14.5.03.].

Royal Forest & Bird Society, North Taranaki Branch, July 1990. Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Park; Submission on Private Members Bill Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Protected Area (SLIMPA) Act, M arch 1991.

Smith, E.S. (in preparation). Recreational Use Survey, Ngā Motu Taranaki, 2002 - 2004

Stewart, R.A. and MacDairmid, A.B., 2003. A Survey of Kaimoana at Kapiti Island, 1999 and 2000. Prepared for Department of Conservation. National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research Ltd., Wellington.

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Sugar Loaf Islands Marine Park Interim Management Committee (SLIMPIMC) , June 1991. Proposed South West Extension, Draft Report.

Taranaki Regional Council, 1990. Recreational Use of the North Taranaki Coast . TRC, Stratford. Taranaki Regional Council, 21.3.96 Memo to the Chair of the Policy Committee. TRC, Stratford.

Taranaki Regional Council, 1997. Regional Coastal Plan. TRC, Stratford. Taranaki Regional Council, 2002. Efficiency and effectiveness of the Regional Coastal Plan for Taranaki. Interim review on the Regional Coastal Plan for Taranaki. TRC, Stratford.

Taranaki Regional Council, 2004. Indigenous biodiversity for the Taranaki Region. TRC, Stratford.

Taranaki Regional Council, 2004. Inventory of coastal areas of local or regional significance in the Taranaki Region. TRC, Stratford. Taylor, N. and Buckenham, B., 2003. Social Impacts of Marine Reserves in New Zealand. Science for Conservation 217. Department of Conservation, Wellington.

TCPL Resources Ltd., 1989. Environmental Studies and Response to Submissions Part 1 and 2. PPL 38437 Toka Exploration Well.

Te Puni Kokiri (Ministry of Maori Development), June 1993. Nga Kai O Te Moana .

Willis, T. and Denny C., 2000. Effects of the Poor Knights Marine Reserve on Demersel Fish. DoC Science Internal Series. Department of Conservation, Wellington.

Wolfenden, J., Cram, F. and Kirkwood, B., 1994. Marine Reserves in New Zealand: A Survey of Community Reactions, Ocean and Coastal Management, 25: 31-51.

Personal Communications

Chadfield, Dave; Nga Motu Marine Reserve Society AGM, 2.05.03. Hartley, Barry; email. ‘Recent sightings’, 7.1.04 2:30 p.m.

Hartley, Barry; email. ‘Sugar Loaf Islands, updated species of birds recorded’, 18.5.01.

Levy, Gary; Chairperson, CRA9 Industry Association Incorporated, by letter, 10.01 Williams, Bryan; email regarding wharehou breeding grounds, and whitebait. 6.6.04.

Weaver, Roy; CEO Westgate, meeting with committee members, 23.4.04 .

48 Tapuae Marine Reserve Application