Activites in estuaries and below the high tide mark

The Coastal Plan specifically addresses activities in the coastal area below the high tide mark.

The Coastal Plan divides the coast into four areas: areas of outstanding coastal value such as the Tongaporutu and Waitotara estuaries; other estuaries such as at the Waiongana and Kaupokonui river mouths; Port Taranaki in New Plymouth; and the open coast.

Farming near an estuary. Different requirements apply in the different areas, but for farmers it is mostly activities in estuaries and river mouth areas that are relevant.

You must apply for a resource consent if you want to do any of the following activities in estuaries or below the high tide mark:

  • Taking water, including damming and diversion, from estuaries or an aquifer o introducing or planting any exotic plants.
  • Removing any sand or gravel.
  • Constructing or removing most structures.

You do not need a resource consent to maintain an existing structure such as a bridge as long as you do not increase its size, there are no significant environmental effects, and you have advised the Taranaki Regional Council of your proposed work at least one working day before you start. However you will need to apply for a consent to either build a new structure or remove an existing one. You do not need a resource consent to discharge uncontaminated water or stormwater into the coastal area or estuaries as long as:

  • The volume is such that it can be discharged through a pipe of less than 600mm diameter (in some areas the diameter must be less than 400mm - check the Coastal Plan).
  • It contains minimal amounts of oil, grease, or suspended sediments, and no other contaminants.

If you cannot meet these conditions or if your discharge is for any other purpose, then you need to apply for a resource consent. You do not need a resource consent to clear culverts, or outfall or intake structures provided that any disturbance of the foreshore or seabed is minimised.

Also, you do not need a resource consent to clear the mouth of any stream less than three metres wide at its mouth as long as:

  • The work is required for water quality or river control purposes.
  • The material is replaced on the foreshore in an area where the foreshore is of similar material.
  • Public access is not restricted for more than one week.
  • You have advised the Taranaki Regional Council of your proposed work at least one working day before you start.

If you cannot meet any of these requirements, you will need to apply for a resource consent.
REFER TO COASTAL PLAN