Schedule of Natural Character Values and Characteristics To be inserted into District Plan Working Draft as at 6 June 2018

CHARACTER

AREA NUMBER

CHARACTER AREA NAME

CLASSIFICATION

VALUES AND CHARACTERISTICS

1

Rocky Point – Te Puru Hill Country

High

Landforms: These elevated (approximately700m asl) coastal foothills branch steeply off a prominent ridgeline from the main Coromandel Range down towards the Firth of Thames. The sequence of largely intact spurs and gullies within the character area have a strong relief and jagged profile, drained by numerous streams. Vegetation Type, Cover and Patterns: A sequence of remnant and regenerating coastal forest cover along the ridges and slopes from shoreline up to lowland forest. Vegetation types include pohutukawa, kauri, broadleaf and small-leaved scrub, manuka and kanuka. The simple vegetation pattern reinforces the underlying topography. Cleared areas of pasture/grassland occupy some of the more moderate slopes and have been excluded from the character area. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: These elevated bush clad coastal slopes form a prominent backdrop to the Firth of Thames. The flat expanse of sea provides a noticeable contrast with the steeply rising hills, separated by a narrow rocky shoreline. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The area within the character area includes public conservation land and is largely free of built development. Sizeable areas of coastal development have been excluded from the character area however several dwellings and associated infrastructure are scattered over the hills. Together with the wilding pines and farmland these modifications reduce cohesion and naturalness where they are adjacent to the character area boundary. Overall, the HNC area remains relatively undeveloped. Habitat Value: The area provides a varied habitat from coastal to elevated ridgelines with a low level of modification and extensive indigenous vegetation cover. The differences in slope and aspect due to the complexity of the landform and the numerous stream gullies further add to the variety of habitat available.

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Natural Processes: The steep, complex coastal foothills are expressive of their volcanic origins and formative processes. Natural regeneration processes are legible in the sequence of vegetation cover from indigenous forest to regenerating shrublands. The stream gullies draining ridgelines to the sea are highly expressive of natural hydrological and erosional processes including visible deltas formed at stream mouths. Wildness/ Wilderness/ Remoteness: The proximity of built development along the coast and adjacent hills, affects the perceived remoteness of the HNC area. Despite this, the homogenous vegetation cover, and dissected and elevated landform impart a sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: The Thames Coast Road is located close to the foreshore where visitors can appreciate the connection between the rocky platforms and river deltas along the coastline and the contrast with the vertical relief of the coastal hills. While the coastal settlements create nodes of modification on the coast, the sensory attributes associated with the HNC area and surrounds are considered high due to the strong coastal influence on the elevated slopes and extensive indigenous vegetation cover. Context/ Setting: These coastal foothills are part of a distinctive stretch of coast where the mountainous hinterland of the Coromandel Range drops steeply to the sea confining the coastline to a narrow corridor. While the hills are situated immediately north of the main settlement of Thames and are located within a sequence of modified and developed pastoral valleys and coastal settlements, the character area itself has limited modification. The extensive forest cover of the Range beyond, provides a strong and dominant contrast of vegetated ridges and slopes. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated slopes and westerly aspect over the Firth of Thames make the character area highly receptive to changing atmospheric conditions with the upper slopes being lost to low cloud in adverse weather. The regenerating and mature vegetation cover, birdlife and other fauna, and numerous streams all display transient qualities with variations in season and weather patterns. Night-time Values: Night-time values within the HNC area are considered generally high due to the absence of dwellings and lit structures and the topography and vegetation cover which limit light spill. However, where the character area is in close proximity to SH25 and settlements at Whakatete Bay, Ngarimu Bay and Thornton Bay, light pollution affects the perceived level of naturalness of the coastal environment.

2

Northern Te Puru Hill Country

High

Landforms: This small character area comprises intact moderately steep coastal slopes north of Te Puru Stream which provide the northern backdrop to the settlement at Te Puru. Rising to approximately 250m asl,

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the character area forms the lower slopes of a much larger prominent ridgeline that connects to the main Coromandel Range. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The coastal slopes are covered by very good examples of indigenous secondary coastal. The vegetation forms a clear sequence that extends from the coastal fringe pohutukawa through to the broadleaf forest extending up the Coromandel Range. Vegetation includes pohutukawa forest, kauri, broadleaf and small-leaved scrub, fernland, manuka and kanuka. The vegetation pattern clearly reflects the underlying topography. A few wilding pines are apparent on steep slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The bushclad slopes within the character area form part of a sequence of landforms connecting the riparian margins of Te Puru Stream with the coastal escarpment above the foreshore and serve as a backdrop to the settlement locate at their base on a coastal alluvial fan. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The landform on the coastal boundary has been modified by the development of the Thames Coromandel Road, however the character area is free from buildings and man-made structures. Wilding pines and nearby settlement does reduce the naturalness of the wider landscape. Habitat Value: Regenerating coastal forest covers the coastal slopes. From shoreline to lowland forest. Together with the low level of modification present, this forest sequence provides opportunities for varied habitat. Natural Process: The coastal slopes and the ranges beyond support a diversity of relatively intact native vegetation and legible vegetation patterns and regeneration processes. Together, the landform and vegetation clearly link the high ranges beyond with the stream and the sea; the steep bush clad southern slopes draining the ridgeline into Te Puru Stream are expressive of natural hydrological and erosion processes. Coastal alluvial processes are apparent in the formation of a fan where the settlement of Te Puru is located. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Despite the proximity to the settlement of Te Puru and its associated infrastructure, this character area imparts a sense of wildness due to its interplay with an active seascape, the narrow, enclosed Te Puru Stream valley, and the extensive vegetation cover that connects with the remote Coromandel Ranges. Experiential Attributes: The elevated landform, vegetation coverage and type and proximity to the Firth of Thames, convey a sense of naturalness and provide a short but scenic corridor for travellers on the Thames Coast Road and Te Puru Creek Road. Viewers can appreciate the connection between the coastline and stream and the contrasting bush covered slopes.

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Context / Setting: The character area is situated between the Te Puru Stream and settlement to the south and a pastoral ridge to the north. It comprises the upper coastal orientated slopes that backdrop the settlement and form part of a long ridgeline connecting to the Coromandel Range. Above the settlement the character area is free of modification and connects to extensive forests in the hinterland. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The extensive vegetation cover and types, birdlife and other fauna, and streams all impart transient qualities which vary with different seasons and weather patterns. The riparian and coastal boundaries of the character area provide opportunities to convey particularly noticeable dynamic natural attributes such as those associated with fluctuations in tide and river flow. Night-time Values: There is a high level of naturalness within the character area due to the absence of dwellings and limited exposure to lights. However, where the character area is in close proximity to SH25, and the dwellings and infrastructure at Te Puru, potential for light pollution does impact slightly on the perceived integrity of the naturalness of the coastal environment.

3

Waiomu Hill Country

High

Landforms: The small discrete character area comprises an intact landform of moderately steep, low coastal slopes located south of the settlement at Waiomu. Rising to approximately 200m asl, these coastal spurs branch off a large prominent ridgeline that ultimately connects to the main Coromandel Range. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The character area contains a sequence of well regenerating coastal forest and broadleaf and small-leaved scrub, the pattern clearly reflecting the underlying topography. Pohutukawa forest along the coastal boundary of the character area forms part of a corridor on both sides of the Thames Coromandel Road. Wilding pines are apparent in places. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The character area is in part characterised by the escarpment and slopes that rise steeply from the adjacent road and foreshore. There is a narrow interface between seascape and landscape which amplifies the contrast between the steep slopes above and the flat waters of the Firth of Thames. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Despite the presence of wilding pines, the area identified within the HNC boundaries contains a high level of naturalness due to the lack of built structures, roads or other modifications to the landform and vegetation. However the boundaries of the character area are adjacent to large areas of grazed pasture as well as dwellings and associated road and power infrastructure. These developments begin to detract from the overall integrity of the wider landscape and its connection with the sea.

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Habitat Value: The extensive regenerating vegetation cover, the low level of modification and the undulating landform that progresses from shoreline to lowland forest provide varied habitat. Upper pastoral slopes reduce the level of connection between the forest habitat of the character area and the extensive forests of the hinterland. Natural Processes: The coastal slopes support a diversity of relatively intact native vegetation, legible vegetation patterns and regeneration processes and erosion processes on the steeper slopes. Wildness/ Wilderness/ Remoteness: The proximity of this character area to development at Waiomu, its semi-enclosure by pastoral landuse, and the spread of wilding pines into the character area, reduce the sense of wilderness. Experiential Attributes: The elevated landform, vegetation cover and type and proximity to the Firth of Thames, convey naturalness and provide a scenic corridor of coastal pohutukawa for travellers on the Thames Coast Road. Viewers can appreciate the connection between the coastline and the contrasting bush covered slopes. Context/ Setting: Part of the Western Coromandel hill ranges, this bush covered character area is bordered by pastoral slopes to the south and east, and the settlement of Waiomu to the north. The cohesion of the wider coastal environment is reduced through this separation between the character area and the extensive forests beyond that cover the Coromandel Range. However the underlying topography continues to convey a legible connection. Transient/ Dynamic Attributes: The vegetation cover and types, birdlife and other fauna, and streams all impart transient qualities which vary with different seasons and weather patterns. The coastal boundaries of the character area express dynamic natural attributes such as those associated with tidal fluctuations and wave activity. Night-time Values: There is a high level of naturalness within the character area due to the absence of dwellings and limited exposure to lights. However, where the boundaries of the character area are in close proximity to SH25, and the dwellings and infrastructure at Waiomu, potential for intrusive light pollution impacts on the perceived integrity of the naturalness of the coastal environment.

4

Ruamahunga Hill Country

High

Landforms: These low coastal slopes branch off ridgelines that step steeply down from the prominent local peak of Te Kaka (577m asl) and connect back to the main Coromandel Range. The intact moderately steep

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volcanic sequence of spurs and gullies is characterised by strong relief and a jagged profile, drained by numerous streams. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The character area forms part of a large continuous tract of remnant and regenerating indigenous vegetation from a coastal fringe of pohutukawa to lowland and montane forest, and scrubland. Large pockets of wilding pines and other exotic species impact on the intactness of the vegetation cover. Sea/ Estuarine Water Bodies: These coastal orientated slopes have a strong connection with the adjacent seascape, a narrow foreshore separating the steep vegetated slopes from the flat waters of the Firth of Thames. Land Uses/ Activities/ Structure: The settlement at Ruamahanga is a small node of modification with associated human disturbance evident on the outskirts adjacent to the character area boundary. Man-made structures and development within the character area are limited to a power line that traverses the mid-slopes, some tracks and exotic vegetation. Despite this, a high degree of naturalness is retained overall due to the extensive indigenous forest and legible landform. Habitat Value: The slopes form part of an extensive area of well regenerating coastal forest in the hinterland providing a large tract of continuous vegetation cover and varied landform with a range of aspects and elevation including numerous stream gullies. Together with the low level of modification present, this forest sequence provides opportunities for varied habitat. Natural Processes: Despite the presence of power lines, tracks and wilding pines, these coastal slopes and hinterland beyond support a diversity of intact native vegetation and legible regeneration processes. Together, the rugged landform, streams and vegetation clearly express the natural sequence of processes and patterns between mountainous ranges and the sea including erosion and stream entrenchment. Wildness/ Wilderness/ Remoteness: Despite the proximity to the coast road and the presence of modification such as power lines and exotic vegetation within the character area, the extensive indigenous vegetation cover, complex and elevated landform and its connection to the mountainous ranges beyond impart a strong sense of wildness. However, where coastal residential development extends up onto the ridgetops in places, the dwellings and access ways begin to impact the level of wildness at the character area boundaries. Experiential Attributes: The Thames Coast Road forms a striking interface between the steep slopes of this character area and the rocky foreshore and sea. The steep bush covered slopes confine the road, highlighting the dynamic and scenic coastal attributes of the journey. While the coastal settlements create nodes of modification on the coast, the sensory attributes associated with the HNC area and surrounds are considered high

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due to the strong coastal influence on the elevated slopes and extensive indigenous vegetation cover. Context/ Setting: The character area is part of a sequence of bush clad coastal foothills at the edge of the Western Coromandel hill ranges between Waiomu and Tapu. The rugged hill ranges drop suddenly to the sea, restricting the coastline to a narrow corridor. The character area skirts the settlement at Ruamahunga and borders the Thames Coast Road. However, the character area itself is largely free of modification and together with the extensive forest cover of the Range beyond, it provides a dominant character of vegetated coastal ridges and slopes. Transient/ Dynamic Attributes: The sudden elevated landform and westerly, coastal orientated slopes make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions with the ranges beyond being lost to low cloud in adverse weather. The extensive and varied habitat, birdlife and other fauna, and the numerous streams are all impart transient qualities which vary with different seasons and weather patterns. The riparian and coastal boundaries of the character area provide opportunities to convey dynamic natural attributes such as those associated with fluctuations in tide and river flow. Night-time Values: The absence of dwellings within the character area means there is limited exposure to lights at night, adding to the character area’s high level of naturalness. Proximity to SH25 and the settlements at Ruamahunga and Waiomu do however start to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment.

5

Te Mata Hill Country

High

Landforms: Steep coastal foothills branch off one of the dominant ridges of the Coromandel Range that extends steadily from Papakai (759m asl) down towards the Firth of Thames. These volcanic landforms are of medium relief and comprise a sequence of short parallel ridges and gullies that drain to the sea. The integrity of the incised landforms within the HNC area is generally intact, interrupted primarily by the Thames Coast Road (SH25) that follows the shoreline. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The hills and stream gullies in this HNC area comprise an isolated pocket of mature remnant and regenerating semi-coastal forest and wind swept vegetation on coastal slopes. The southern portion of this HNC area contains a fringe of pohutukawa lining both sides of the road corridor including the rocky foreshore immediately above the sea. Despite the road corridor, the coastal fringe is intrinsically linked to the adjacent cliff edge vegetation. The presence of production forestry nearby has begun to affect the integrity of the vegetation cover in places. Sea/ Estuarine Water Bodies: Bush clad coastal slopes form a backdrop to the Firth of Thames. The flat expanse of sea amplifies the

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relief and steepness of the hills, the land and seascape connected by a narrow rocky shoreline. Land Uses/ Activities/ Structure: There are a small number of dwellings and associated infrastructure such as power lines, road and access tracks within the character area and nearby. These modifications together with the wilding pines and other exotic weeds within the HNC area impact on the intactness of this coastal environment however the boundaries exclude the large areas of neighbouring production forestry and open pasture. Overall, the HNC area remains relatively undeveloped. Habitat Value: The complexity of the landform including a variety of slope and aspect, as well as the presence of streams means the character area comprises a range of vegetation cover and habitat types. These include the semi-coastal forest in the stream gullies to the coastal pohutukawa fringe which has locally significant habitat value. Natural Processes: The complex coastal foothills are expressive of their volcanic origins and formative processes. There is a legible interplay of indigenous forest with regenerating shrub lands, steep slopes and coastal bluffs that convey a narrative of active natural processes such as tidal influences, coastal erosion and river and stream entrenchment. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The presence of built elements, particularly SH25, affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment in places. Despite this, a sense of wilderness is retained through the complexity and relief of the landform, the indigenous vegetation and the strong relationship of these coastal foothills to the Firth of Thames. Experiential Attributes: The connection between the sequence of coastal foothills and the sea is easily appreciable to those travelling the coast road that traces the rocky shoreline between them. The dynamic landform contrasts with the flat expanse of the Firth of Thames and together with endemic vegetation patterns impart a sense of naturalness. Context / Setting: This HNC area is connected as a character area by the ridge and gully landform pattern that branch off the same primary ridge, and by the ecological linkages that occur between areas of stream gully forest and coastal fringe vegetation. However the isolation of the character area due to the extensive area of forestry to the east significantly reduces the cohesion of the wider landscape/seascape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and exposed aspect make the character area receptive to atmospheric conditions. The streams display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns.

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Night-time Values: The presence of dwellings and structures within the character area and nearby, as well as proximity to SH25 is of a level where they start to affect the perceived intactness of the natural coastal environment. Summary and Key Attributes The coastal fringe of pohutukawa is intrinsically linked to the adjacent cliff edge vegetation despite separation by the road corridor. Key attributes that are sensitive to change include [for consideration of future works]: The presence of production forestry nearby which has begun to affect the integrity of the vegetation cover in places.

1. The intact coastal orientated escarpment with a fringe of regenerating coastal scrub and emergent pohutukawa.

2. The dynamic interplay between the landform and rocky/ sandy foreshore which is highly expressive of its coastal exposure and formative processes.

3. An absence of built form and modifications within the character area. The upper seaward slopes are modified pastoral farmland but natural coastal processes remain evident below the ridge and the context of the landward slopes is notably more modified.

6

Northern Wilson Bay Coastline

High

Landforms: The HNC area is part of a greater coastal hill landform with medium relief comprising a dominant ridgeline at the top of the escarpment, steep coastal slopes, hollows and valleys. The primary feature of the character area is the coastal escarpment rising immediately from the shoreline. The escarpment is characterised by a combination of steep cliffs, exposed rock strata along the cliff face and wave cut platforms along the rocky shoreline, with clear evidence of coastal exposure and erosion. Despite the upper slopes being farmed, the landform of the escarpment remains intact. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The area is predominantly in pasture however small patches of regenerating and remnant native vegetation inhabit some gullies and valleys within and adjacent to the HNC area, reinforcing the underlying topography. While some wilding pines occur, it is the fringe of regenerating coastal scrub and emergent pohutukawa that characterise the steep and eroding coastal slopes immediately above the rocky shoreline. The upper slopes of a more moderate gradient are in pasture. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The flat expanse of the Firth of Thames and Wilsons Bay amplify the relief and complexity of the headland and escarpment landform and the natural processes occurring along the coastal edge. The relationship between the seascape and landform changes between the open escarpment face and

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where it forms a rocky point extending out to encircle the north end of Wilsons Bay Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Despite the presence of wilding pines and large areas of grazed pasture within and adjacent to the HNC area, these modifications are subservient to the naturalness achieved through coastal exposure and legibility of coastal escarpment. Built structures are largely limited to fence lines. There are no buildings or roads to detract from the overall integrity of the landform and strong connection with the sea. Habitat Value: Habitat values are not high within the farmed section of the escarpment but they are of local significance on the steeper vegetated sections. Here, the presence of a stream, and the variety of aspects and vegetation cover provide a range of habitat types within the character area. The rocky shore and beach are likely to provide habitat for a variety of coastal fauna, particularly seabirds and lizards. Natural Processes: The landscape is expressive of the interplay, particularly of wave action and erosion processes, between the elevated volcanic landform, Wilsons Bay and the Firth of Thames. Evidence of this includes the exposed volcanic rock outcrops left to form the Wilson Bay point, Wilsons Bay and beach, and the rocky shoreline. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: This HNC area is strongly characterised by an absence of built form, the presence of regenerating native forest and an intact landform highly expressive of its coastal exposure and formative processes. These attributes all convey a high degree of wildness and remoteness. Experiential Attributes: Experiential attributes are relatively high due to the area’s connection and interaction with the sea. This is particularly evident in the prominence of natural coastal processes, lack of buildings / structures and the regenerating native forest which all impart a strong sense of naturalness. Context / Setting: The escarpment that comprises much of this character area is connected to a larger coastal landform, a small part of which forms the northern backdrop to Wilsons Bay. It is part of a sequence of pastoral hills with regenerating native forest in valleys. SH25 leaves the coast at Wilsons Bay and turns inland to skirt the headland. The limited presence of roads, buildings and structures within, or close to this HNC area contributes to the strong sense of remoteness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and exposed westerly aspect make the character area receptive to atmospheric conditions. The tidal rhythm of the sea, the location and flow of small streams, and wildlife in the area all have the potential to display transient ephemeral qualities which will vary during seasons and

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weather patterns. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from the limited exposure to lights in this location given the absence of dwellings and structures and the distance from SH25. The southern end of the character area fronting Wilsons Bay is in closer proximity to SH25 and nearby dwellings which will have an impact on the perceived intactness of this part of the coastal environment. Summary and Key Attributes Although this HNC area is connected to a larger coastal landform, it is the seaward facing escarpment below the ridge that is considered to represent a high level of natural character. Key attributes that are sensitive to change include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact coastal orientated escarpment with a fringe of regenerating coastal scrub and emergent pohutukawa.

2. The dynamic interplay between the landform and rocky/ sandy foreshore which is highly expressive of its coastal exposure and formative processes.

3. An absence of built form and modifications within the character area. The upper seaward slopes are modified pastoral farmland but natural coastal processes remain evident below the ridge and the context of the landward slopes is notably more modified.

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Kirita Bay Coastline South

High

Landforms: The landforms that comprise this HNC area are an amalgam of an intact coastal escarpment and more landward valley slopes and gullies connected by the same ridgeline. The steep coastal escarpment is characterised by rocky outcrops and coastal bluffs and shoals before turning inland where the more moderate slopes rise from a coastal stream valley. The area is backed by pastoral rolling hills with moderate relief. The landform is highly expressive of formative processes and coastal erosion. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The steep and eroding coastal escarpment in this HNC area is highly vegetated with regenerating and remnant forest cover within an SNA. It includes a narrow band of pasture along the uppermost slopes below the ridgeline. The landward slopes included in this HNC are largely comprised of forested gullies at the head of the coastal valley, also within an SNA. The HNC boundary extends to include additional clusters of vegetation that are connected to this upper catchment. The vegetation cover consists of coastal and lowland forest, broad/small-leaved scrubland, pohutukawa forest and taraire/tawa forest with emergent rata. These remnants characterise the coastal escarpment and valley slopes where they act as a stepping stone between dunes, primary coastal forest, lowland forest outliers and other SNAs in the area.

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Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The flat expanse of the Firth of Thames interacts with and amplifies the relief of the escarpment landform and the natural processes that occur along the rocky shoreline though there is less direct connection with the inland slopes. The northern end of this HNC area forms part of the southern headland sheltering the u-shaped Kirita Bay. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There are a few dwellings at the mouth of the stream valley, and a small batch settlement to the north in Kirita Bay however these are outside the HNC boundaries. Despite the presence of these nearby dwellings, roads, power lines, and other associated infrastructure, modifications within the HNC area itself are largely limited to wilding pines, fence lines and the open areas of grazed pasture. While the pastoral areas in particular clearly impact on the intactness of this coastal environment, overall, the level of coastal exposure and legibility of landform continue to imbue a sense of naturalness. Habitat Value: The landform relief, vegetation cover and the rocky shore provide a broad range of habitat types and stepping stones between types. The native forest remnants consist of a variety of different communities from broadleaved scrubland to taraire/tawa forest and are likely to provide habitat for a range of common indigenous fauna. Natural Processes: The coastal escarpment consists of dynamic coastal features that are highly expressive of formative and ongoing natural coastal processes. In particular, the rocky shoreline and steep slopes convey the interplay of wave action and erosion processes while indigenous vegetation patterns reinforce the relief of the escarpment topography. While the pastoral farming between these two areas represents a change in both land cover and proximity to the more active coastal environment, the indigenous vegetation patterns of the HNC area identified at the head of the valley also reinforce topography and hydrological systems connected with the coast as well as natural regenerative processes. While coastal processes are less active here, the interplay of remnant pockets of vegetation with surrounding pasture impart a strong sense of naturalness. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The relationship of this character area with the active seascape of the Firth of Thames, the limited built form and distance from main roads and activity, in combination with the regenerating native forest and expressive landform provide a sense of wilderness. Experiential Attributes: Sensory and experiential attributes associated with this character area include the escarpment’s connection and interaction with the sea, and the natural weathering of parts of the exposed coastal escarpment which are clearly linked with the area’s exposure to the Firth of Thames and the lack of built development which contributes to an experience of being in a remote coastal location. The inland

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slopes are more overtly surrounded by modification which begins to impact on this area’s experiential attributes. Context / Setting: The northern end of this HNC area comprises the southern backdrop to Kirita Bay and is part of a wider pattern of pastoral hills with regenerating native forest in the valleys. Kirita Bay Road passes close by the head of the stream valley encompassing the inland slopes of this character area and there are some elevated views from SH25 down towards these slopes. However overall the limited accessibility to the character area itself and low level of buildings and structures imparts a sense of remoteness, particularly from the coastal escarpment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The landform directly engages with the tidal rhythm of the Firth of Thames as well as exhibiting ephemeral qualities resulting from atmospheric conditions and variations of day / year and wildlife. Night-time Values: There is a high degree of naturalness derived from limited exposure to lights given the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area. However where the character area is in closer proximity to SH25 and nearby dwellings, this will have an impact on the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. Summary and Key Attributes This HNC area is in two parts. The coastal escarpment has a direct interface to the sea. The landward area is located at the head of a valley, connected to the coast by the stream that the gullies drain into and connected to the escarpment by the shared ridgeline above them. Key attributes that are sensitive to change include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact seaward facing escarpment below the ridgeline. 2. The remnant and regenerating coastal and lowland forest and scrubland including pohutukawa

and rata, and the natural processes and habitat they provide as stepping stones within the wider context.

3. The dynamic interplay between the landform and rocky foreshore which is highly expressive of its coastal exposure and formative processes.

4. An absence of built form and modifications within the character area. The surrounding land is dominated by modified pastoral farmland and includes other built development however it is the high level of evident natural processes including hydrological and regenerative processes present in the valley slopes that clearly characterise these HNC areas.

8A

Kirita Bay Coastline North -

High

Landforms: While part of a large headland, the focus of this HNC area is on the intact coastal margins between

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coastal Kirita Bay and Ohauhunga Bay which typically rise quickly from the sea to an escarpment or steep coastal slopes. It encompasses the relatively intact south facing slopes of the Matariki Bay drainage catchment but excludes the modified valley floor and north facing slopes. The area comprises a complexity of coastal features that are particularly characterised by distinctive convoluted rocky headlands, points, islands and outcrops separating a variety of sandy and rocky bays. Numerous streams and tributaries drain the area including small seeps and wetlands. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The dominant land cover across the wider headland including these coastal escarpments is pastoral. However, included in this HNC area along the coastline and up the Matariki Bay backslopes are several fragments of regionally significant coastal secondary broadleaved forest including a series of coastal pohutukawa and mixed broadleaf canopy forests in the gullies. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The flat expanse of the Firth of Thames amplifies the relief of the headland landform while the sequence of rocky points, headlands, islands and bays create a distinctive, dynamic interaction with the sea. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The primary modification to these coastal margins is the farming activity present, largely evident in the extent of open pastoral landcover and fence lines. There are also a small number of dwellings and structures nearby including roads, wilding pines and power lines. Obvious development is largely constrained to Matariki Bay where the relevant areas have been excluded from the HNC boundaries. The presence of marine farms is starting to have an impact on the intactness of the coastal environment. Habitat Value: The SNA report for the Waikato Regional Council considers the series of coastal pohutukawa and mixed broadleaf canopy forests in gullies and streams, likely to provide habitat for kereru. The same report has identified part of Matariki Beach as a seasonal home to a nationally threatened shorebird species. Natural Processes: This dynamic convoluted coastal edge with its sequence of bays, islands and points is highly expressive of natural processes such as weathering, erosion, wave and tidal interaction – the area as a whole maintains a direct interface and connection to the sea. The qualities of the exposed rock formations reinforce the volcanic geology of the area while the fragments of windswept coastal vegetation such as the pohutukawa emphasise coastal exposure. Despite the presence of dwellings, roads, power lines, wilding pines, pasture, and fence lines in the area, overall the coastal processes associated with the exposed shoreline and escarpments are the dominant characteristic and impart a strong sense of naturalness.

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Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The character area has a high level of exposure to the sea due the focus on the immediate coastal margins, including rock outcrops and islands. This direct relationship together with the minimal built form, regenerating native forest and expressive landform provide a sense of wilderness. The slopes immediately behind Matariki Bay Beach are more internally focused and characterised by large areas of farming activity around the fragments of bush which reduce the sense of wildness in this area. Experiential Attributes: There are strong experiential and sensory attributes associated with much of this area due to the distinctive coastal features and the high level of exposure to and interaction with the sea. The limited presence of buildings and structures further amplifies the experience of being in a remote coastal location. Context / Setting: This HNC area represents the coastal margins of a much greater complex headland landform that marks the southern entrance to Manaia Harbour. It is characterised by multiple sandy bays and rocky points, each with their own local characteristics, but is part of a wider sequence of pastoral hills with regenerating native forest in valleys. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The rocky outcrops, islands and headlands convey transient and dynamic qualities through their direct interface with the constant tidal rhythms and wave action of the sea. Other notable transient attributes include the seasonal habitat provided by the bush fragments and Matariki Beach, identified as a seasonal home to a nationally threatened shorebird species. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the few number of dwellings and structures in the character area. Marine farms, proximity to SH25, the development in Matariki Bay and the nearby settlement at Kirita Bay (Smugglers Cove) starts to degrade the perceived intactness of the southern end of the coastal environment.

8B Upper Kirita Bay Catchment

High Landforms: This sequence of relatively intact moderate to steep sloping spurs and gullies encompass the upper tributaries of Kirita Stream and serve as a backdrop to Kirita Bay. They form part of a much greater complex landform including the rocky peak of Pukewhakataratara which is highly expressive of the underlying geological processes. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: While much of the land cover on the ridges of these upper coastal slopes has been modified for pastoral farming, there are sizeable tracts in the gullies that consist of coastal and lowland forest,

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broad/small-leaved scrubland, pohutukawa forest and taraire/tawa forest with emergent rata, most of which are protected by QEII Open Space covenants. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The sudden relief of these coastal hills contrasts with, drain into, and frame and enclose the sheltered waters of Kirita Bay. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The primary modifications to these coastal hills include the presence of Manaia Road traversing the character area and the farming activity, largely evident in the extent of open pastoral land cover and fence lines. There are also a small number of dwellings scattered within and adjacent to the character area however obvious development is largely constrained to the small settlement at Kirita Bay which has been excluded from the HNC boundaries. Despite the presence of these modifications, the area contains a high level of naturalness due to the large tracts of forest cover, the legible volcanic landform and the strong connection with the extensive bush covered hills beyond. Habitat Value: The landform relief and vegetation cover and connection to the hinterland provide opportunities for a range of habitat types and stepping stones between types. The native forest remnants consist of a variety of different communities from broadleaved scrubland to taraire/tawa forest and are likely to provide habitat for a range of common indigenous fauna. The sequence of ridges and valleys tie together stream habitat for native fish such as eels and kokopu as well as providing linkages for avifauna. Natural Processes: Despite the presence of modifications, the large tracts of indigenous forest cover in the south facing gullies and north facing slopes around Pukewhakataratara and beyond are reflective of the underlying geological formative processes and support ongoing regeneration processes. The pastoral areas included within the HNC boundaries are part of this intact sequence of ridges and valleys which tie together stream habitat as well as providing linkages for birds. The enclosure and proximity of the pastoral areas by indigenous forest creates a cohesive sequence that are also perceptually tied together. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The presence of the road and built development in the hills affects the perceived remoteness of the HNC area. Despite this, the sizeable tracts of forest cover, complex and elevated landform impart a sense of wildness. This is further enhanced through the connections with the extensive bush covered hinterland. Experiential Attributes: The elevated landform and striking form of the rocky peak flanked by extensive indigenous forest impart a high degree of naturalness and form a prominent backdrop to Kirita Bay. While the presence of Manaia Road over these hill slopes reduces the level of naturalness, it provides opportunities for

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impressive coastal views and appreciation of the indigenous forest in the adjacent gullies. Context / Setting This series of elevated spurs and gullies represent the backdrop to Kirita Bay and part of a much greater landform. They form the upper southern slopes of a major ridgeline from the headland feature at Deadmans Point leading up to the prominent rocky peak of Pukewhakataratara (394m asl) and ultimately connecting with the mountainous hinterland of the Coromandel Range. Together with the extensive forest cover of the inland ranges, these bush clad gullies provide a strong contrast to the pastoral ridges and slopes that dominate the greater coastal headland. Transient Dynamic Attributes: The upper slopes within this character area are highly receptive to changing atmospheric conditions, being lost to low cloud in adverse weather while the lower slopes above Kirita Bay have a stronger connection with the dynamic rhythms of the sea. The regenerating and mature vegetation cover, birdlife and other fauna, and numerous streams all display transient qualities with variations in season and weather patterns. Night-time Values: There is a limited exposure to lights and high degree of naturalness overall, particularly in the vicinity of Pukewhakataratara due to the small number of dwellings and structures in the character area. However light spill from the small settlement in Kirita Bay starts to intrude on the southwestern end of the character area and the presence of vehicles with headlights on Manaia Road also begin to impact on the perceived intactness of the coastal environment.

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Hikurangi Point/ Te Kouma Head

High

Landforms: This extensive HNC area encompasses Manaia Harbour Peninsula and Te Kouma Head, visually and physically enclosing the long narrow and highly indented form of Te Kouma Harbour. The character area comprises a sequence of elevated inland foothills, prominent headlands, exposed coastal cliffs and escarpments, sandy beaches, tidal mudflats, craggy bays and reefs. Overall, the integrity of the landforms within the character area remains high though it is slightly impacted by developments such as cuts from roads including SH25 that crosses the head of the harbour. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: There is a wide range of vegetation types and patterns across the character area from shoreline to elevated ridges, some of which is of regional significance. Extensive mangrove colonies occupy the eastern ends of Manaia Harbour and to a lesser extent Te Kouma Harbour along with narrow fringes of coastal small/broadleaved scrubland and wetland. The Manaia Harbour Peninsula is characterised by coastal induced broad/small-leaved scrubland with pohutukawa forest margins and a pohutukawa-kowhai association cliffland while inland on the upper reaches of the catchment, the vegetation changes to include semi-coastal and lowland secondary broadleaved forest. Pasture covers much of Te Kouma Head but is interspersed with pockets of small/broadleaved scrubland and coastal forest in

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gullies and on cliff faces. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Comprised of two headlands, there is a high level of interplay in this character area between landscape and seascape. Manaia and Te Kouma Harbour estuarine environments impart a strong sense of naturalness due to their intactness and evident natural processes. The tidal mudflats and sheltered waters also provide contrast with the moderate relief of the landform. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Apart from a few dwellings along the coastline and modification associated with farming, there is relatively little development on the Manaia and Te Kouma peninsulas. The open areas of pasture become subservient to the interplay between coastal vegetation, landform relief, escarpments, and the open waters of the Coromandel Harbour. Marine farms are starting to have an impact on the intactness of the outer harbour coastal environment. Development is focused at the head of the harbours, primarily at Manaia, on the alluvial flats outside this HNC area. Roading and new dwellings at the head of the Te Kouma Harbour begin to reduce cohesion and naturalness in this area. Habitat Value: There is a high diversity of habitat types and low overall modification of the coastal environment, including the expansive estuarine environments, rocky shorelines, and remnant and regenerating coastal forest. Naturally uncommon threatened flora species have been identified in the SNA report for the Waikato Regional Council as present on the Manaia headland. While Te Kouma headland is predominantly in farmland, the pastoral ridges are an integral part of the local area habitat. They physically and visually link the pockets of vegetation and form part of the same hydrological catchment however further fragmentation could begin to impact on habitat values. Natural Processes: These headlands and harbours have an active coastal edge which is highly expressive of a range of dynamic natural coastal processes. The extensive intertidal harbour areas comprise sequences of mangroves, salt marsh, mudflats, and coastal scrub that reveal the processes around tidal inundation while the rocky shores, reefs and sandy beaches on exposed headlands demonstrate processes such as wave action and coastal erosion. The sequences of pastoral ridges and vegetated gullies inform landform and natural drainage patterns. Overall, despite surrounding pastoral land use, marine farming and other modifications, the level of coastal exposure affords the landscape a high degree of naturalness. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The scale of landforms and exposed coastal features, the level of interaction with the vast intertidal flats, and continuity of vegetation cover and patterns, imbue a sense of wilderness to the coastal environment despite the pastoral farmland, marine farms, roads and scattering of dwellings in the area and nearby.

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Experiential Attributes: The evident coastal processes associated with the exposed nature of the headland landforms and interaction with the more enclosed, sheltered and tidal variations of the inner harbours impart a range of different strong sensory and experiential attributes. Context / Setting: This extensive HNC area encompasses Manaia Harbour Peninsula, Te Kouma Head, and the upper inland reaches of the catchment that backdrop Te Kouma Harbour. This headland/harbour landscape which includes a large tract of continuous vegetation and connects to extensive forest ranges in the hinterland is characterised by a strong visual coherence and integrity despite the presence of some development. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The exposed reefs, cliffs and other headland landforms are a visible result of their direct interaction with the constant dynamic wave action of the sea. The ebb and flow of the intertidal flats conveys a different rhythm but similar dynamic and transient attributes. The numerous rivers and creeks display also have ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Night-time Values: Night time values are high due to the limited exposure to lights given the absence of buildings in the HNC area. However the proximity to SH25, marine farms and dwellings at Manaia and Te Kouma start to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment.

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Rangipukea/ Wekarua Island Group

High

Landforms: This character area comprises four main islands - Rangipukea, Wekarua, Tataweka and Cow Island - as well as several additional reefs and outcrops grouped around the entrances to Te Kouma, Manaia and Coromandel Harbours. The headlands, bluffs, escarpments, sandy bay and rocky shoals are relatively intact and highly expressive of their volcanic origins and coastal erosion. The landform of each island varies from small rocky profiles to the more substantial island of Rangipukea where a small isthmus connects two mounds (68m asl) that rise moderately steeply from the water. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The vegetation cover consists of patches of regenerating and remnant native coastal vegetation. Rangipukea Island is dominated by modified pasture cover with trees (predominantly pohutukawa) and shrubs mostly limited to the coastal cliffs and gullies. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: As a small archipelago this group of islands have an integral relationship with the sea. Their location is at the transition point between the Firth of Thames Coromandel Harbour and the more open waters of the Hauraki Gulf, the exposure imparting a strong degree of naturalness.

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Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The smaller islands have a low level of modification. Rangipukea is farmed with some associated development including fences and stockyards. Despite these modifications and the presence of nearby marine farms, wilding pines and other exotic weeds, the group of islands retain a strong sense of naturalness overall due to their intact landform and maritime characteristics. Habitat Value: The character area provides a unique coastal habitat due to the islands’ separation from the mainland combined with a low overall level of modification. Each island offers a variety of habitat with different landform, vegetation and aspect including sandy beaches, rocky shorelines, cliffs and coastal scrub. Natural Processes: Natural coastal processes are clearly evident in the island landforms, rocky shore platforms, bluffs, stony beaches and vegetation patterns contributing to a very endemic landscape and the edges of the islands constantly being eroded and sculpted by the sea. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: These islands convey a high degree of wildness. The expressive landform, strong sense of exposure and relationship with the sea, and their distance offshore and inaccessibility from the main headlands all contribute to imparting a sense of wilderness and remoteness. Experiential Attributes: The isolated nature of these islands means opportunities to view and experience them are essentially limited to those with boats and kayaks who appreciate their scenic qualities and amenity such as the sheltered bay on the eastern side of Rangipukea Island. The lack of development, legible coastal processes associated with the exposed nature of the island group and interaction with the tidal variations of the sea contribute to a high level of sensory and experiential attributes. Context / Setting: This small group of islands form part of a larger cluster of closely scattered islands and islets off the west cost of the Coromandel Peninsula. While they are physically separated, this archipelago consists of remnants reflecting the Coromandel’s past volcanism and therefore inherently connected to each other and to the mainland. The rolling relief of some of these small landforms punctuate the flat surface of the sea and create an outer breakwater sheltering the entrance of these west coast harbours. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The exposed island group directly engages with the seascape and the highly active coastal environment, in particular interactions with wave action, ebb and flow of the outer Manaia and Te Kouma Harbours. Other transient qualities associated with the variations in weather, season and tide are also evident.

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Night-time Values: Night-time values are very high given the lack of development on the islands and low level of development such as dwellings and roads on the adjacent mainland. The marine farms nearby are lit at night however they are not obtrusive given their distance and overall the coastal environment retains a high level of intactness.

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Whanganui Island

High

Landforms: Whanganui Island is a highly legible and prominent island landform at the entrance to Coromandel Harbour, separated only by a narrow passage from Ruffin Peninsula on the mainland. The large island rises abruptly from the water to a high point at 135m asl. The landform is characterised by its weathered volcanic form including steep craggy cliffs, promontories, escarpments, sandy bays, reefs and outcrops which are expressive of formative coastal processes. The shoreline is highly sculpted and varied, the series of white sandy beaches providing contrast to the rocky bluffs. Tawhiti Point, the southern tip of the island, is a prominent feature within the Coromandel Harbour. It comprises intact craggy rock platforms along its coastal margin rising to rugged, almost vertical seacliffs and moderate backslopes. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation cover on the island is dominated by pasture particularly on the mid to upper slopes where the underlying rock formation is exposed in many places. Pockets of regenerating native vegetation are generally confined to the coastal margins, cliffs and gullies. There are several stands of exotic trees scattered across the island including conifers, gum and deciduous trees. The vegetation patterns reflect the underlying landform and reveal the ongoing natural coastal processes that are occurring. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The island is a distinctive part of the Coromandel Harbour and wider coastline and represents a dynamic connection between landscape and seascape. The flat expanse of the sheltered Coromandel Harbour amplifies the relief and steepness of the landform. The more exposed western edge open to the waters of the Hauraki Gulf imparts a strong degree of naturalness. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The island has a low level of development. Despite the dominance of pastoral farming with associated modified pasture grasslands, dwellings, powerlines, and tracks and the presence of a marine farm, the character area retains a strong sense of naturalness due to its intact landform with raw exposed maritime characteristics. Habitat Value: The island has a very endemic landscape. It incorporates a range of vegetation types and patterns, varying levels of exposure from sheltered sandy bays to exposed rocky bluffs, all contributing to provide a unique range of habitat. The marginal areas of coastal small-leaved scrubland and cliffland

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communities are identified in the SNA report for the Waikato Regional Council as having nationally vulnerable fauna (North Island Weka) present. Natural Processes: Natural processes are clearly evident in the relatively intact island landform, native vegetation cover and their relationship with the Coromandel Harbour. The hydrological catchment and regeneration processes are highly legible with the pattern of vegetation within gullies. Features such as Tawhiti Point are highly expressive of the island’s formative processes, being shaped by coastal and wind erosion. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The island’s landform and vegetation patterns are highly expressive of ongoing natural coastal processes, and despite the marine farm and dwellings in Arapawa Bay and nearby Ruffin Peninsula, overall there is a low level of development. Considered together the high degree of exposure and interaction with the sea, and separation from the mainland, these elements all lead to a strong sense of wildness and remoteness. Experiential Attributes: The sensory and experiential attributes of the island are considered high due to the highly legible coastal processes and the exposed nature of the island and interaction with the tidal variations of the sea. The separation from the mainland but proximity to Coromandel township means that while opportunities to view and experience them are essentially limited to those with boats and kayaks, the island is popular for this kind of scenic recreation experience. Context / Setting: Whanganui island forms much of the northern arm that frames and encloses Coromandel Harbour with Tawhiti Point marking the harbour entrance. The island is one of a cluster of volcanic island remnants off the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, creating a distinctive, sheltered coastline. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The island’s intact coastal edge means it has a clear, direct relationship with the tidal fluctuations of the Coromandel Harbour and dynamic outer waters of the wider seascape. There are also a number of transient and ephemeral qualities resulting from the presence of vegetation, birdlife and marine life, streams and weather conditions. Night-time Values: The proximity to marine farm lights, the dwellings at Arapawa Bay and the nearby development at Ruffin Peninsula impact on the perceived naturalness of the island. However these are largely restricted to localised intrusions and overall, night-time values are high.

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Preece Point

High

Landforms: Preeces Point is a distinctive narrow finger of land extending west into the Coromandel Harbour. The landform comprises a ridgeline rising to a height of 61m asl, characterised by escarpments, rocky shoals and outcrops terminating with Preeces Point, a prominent rock outcrop. The tidal mudflats and alluvial plains of the inner Coromandel Harbour provide contrast with the moderate relief of the landform. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation cover along the point consists of several sizeable tracts of regenerating bush focused at the tip and at the base of the peninsula, including kanuka and pohutukawa forest. These pockets of indigenous vegetation are separated by a large area of pasture and stands of exotic trees including conifers and eucalyptus which break up the intactness of the vegetation patterns. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Preeces Point is a key feature, framing the inner waters of the Coromandel Harbour. The extensive, intact tidal flats contrast with the sudden rise in elevation of the peninsula, amplifying the prominence of landform. The estuarine environment imparts a strong sense of naturalness due to evident natural processes including the relationship with the Waiau River and other unnamed creeks. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The peninsula has been modified with a road following much the ridgeline, the presence of dwellings, wilding pines, pasture and fencelines, and marine farms off the coast to the north. However, the focus of the area identified as HNC is on the tip of the headland, the southern coastline and estuarine foreshore and excludes much of the development including most of the pasture and roading. The character area retains a sense of naturalness due to the large areas of vegetation, legible landform and very strong relationship with the Coromandel Harbour. Habitat Value: The rich landscape/seascape mosaic comprising intact tidal flats adjacent to the Waiau River, small/broadleaved scrubland and pohutukawa forest, sheltered bays and the rocky shoreline provide a broad range of habitat opportunities. Natural Processes: The strong landform relief and exposed volcanic rock reinforce formative and ongoing natural processes whilst the extensive mudflats in the intertidal harbour areas are highly expressive of tidal inundation and estuarine processes. The regenerative processes of the areas of indigenous vegetation cover are also important attributes amplified by the relatively intact sequence between the mudflats and coastal vegetation. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The patterns of regenerating vegetation and strong engagement with the vast intertidal flats imbue a sense of rawness and wildness to the coastal environment. The proximity to roads, dwellings and

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marine farming activities impacts on these attributes. Experiential Attributes: The linear peninsula landform and surrounding seascape enables a variety of sensory and experiential attributes, from the exposed nature of Preece Point to interactions with the more enclosed dynamic tidal variations of the Coromandel Harbour. Context / Setting: Preeces Point forms a southern arm, framing and enclosing the inner waters of the Coromandel Harbour. The landform appears severed from the inland ranges by a band of farmed alluvial flats. The areas of regenerating forest with a rural outlook. Despite this, the strong relationship to the wider Coromandel Harbour retains a sense of naturalness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: There is a clear interplay between the headland landform and the waters of the Coromandel Harbour. Dynamic attributes around the more exposed rocky point are evident in the daily tidal ebb and flow and variations in weather and wave action. The more enclosed estuarine environment displays ephemeral qualities resulting from the highly expressive and changeable intertidal flats and channels. Night-time Values: The presence of dwellings in the HNC area, the proximity to a marine farm and to SH25 has started to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment due to exposure to light.

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Ruffin Peninsula Headland and Motukakarikitahi (Rat) Island

High

Landforms: The HNC area comprises the horseshoe shaped headland and bay that form the tip of Ruffin Peninsula and the nearby small intact rocky island of Motukakarikitahi. Ruffin Peninsula headland is an intact landform with a steep and rugged profile rising to almost 100m asl. The underlying rock formations are exposed in places. It is characterised by two steep ridges enclosing the south-facing tidal inlet of Makariri Bay, and bluffs, escarpments and rocky shoreline along the outer coast. In the bay, the shallow beach and dune enclose a small creek and wetland basin. Motukakarikitahi (Rat) Island is slightly bowed in shape, ringed by a rocky foreshore and rises steeply from the sea to a height of 64m asl. Both landforms are clearly expressive of the underlying formative volcanic processes. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation on the Ruffin Peninsula Headland is dominated by pasture in the inner slopes enclosing the bay and windswept coastal indigenous vegetation on the more exposed, steep outer slopes. Nationally under-represented coastal forest on the peninsula and Motukakarikitahi (Rat) Island mean these areas are considered of national significance. Vegetation communities includes primary coastal forest and small/broadleaved scrubland. The threatened plant Senecio marotiri has been found here.

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Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Ruffin Peninsula and Motukakarikitahi (Rat) Island are prominent features in the waters off Coromandel’s west coast. The peninsula encloses McGregor Bay, sheltering the inner waters of Coromandel Harbour while the island is more isolated and exposed. The flat waters contrast with the sudden rise in elevation of the two landforms from the sea. The tidal nature of Little Passage and Matariki Bay is highly expressive of coastal processes imparting a sense of naturalness. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The HNC area has a low level of development, largely limited to power lines, pasture and farming related structures such as fencing on Ruffin Peninsula. However there are several residential properties located within a small bay on the east side of the headland immediately below the character area. The close proximity and scale of some these dwellings, their domestic curtilage and associated residential activity contrasts with the naturalness of the vegetated coastal escarpment above. The modification clearly affects the perceived intactness of the headland. Motukakarikitahi (Rat) Island is largely free of modification. The nearest shore of Ruffin Peninsula however several mussel farms immediately offshore to the north of the island start to affect the sense of naturalness and wildness of the wider context. Habitat Value: The island and headland provide an important range of habitat opportunities; a result of indigenous vegetation cover, sandy beaches, a variety of aspects and elevation, sheltered bays and the rocky shoreline. The Makariri Bay catchment is covered in pasture however the vegetated coastal margins are of national significance, providing linkages to sheltered roosting and nesting habitat including for threatened fauna. Motukakarikitahi (Rat) Island is also utilised as a kiwi "creche" so stoat trapping efforts are in place. Natural Processes: The markedly steep relief of the landform, exposed geology and coastal features including headlands, escarpments, coves and sandy beaches clearly express the underlying formative and ongoing natural processes including wave and wind erosion processes which have progressively shaped and sculptured the current landform. The pasture covered slopes of the Makariri catchment begin to reduce the level of naturalness as do the nearby dwellings. The presence of marine farm activity also begins to affect natural biophysical processes adjacent to the island however the vegetated landform remains intact and is clearly highly natural. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The extent and qualities of regenerating and remnant vegetation on the coastal margins of the headland, together with the landform’s strong engagement with the Coromandel Harbour imbue a sense of wildness. The proximity to dwellings, particularly in the small bay adjacent to Makariri Bay reduces the sense of remoteness however due to the steep relief and intervening vegetation, impacts are localised.

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The island’s landform and vegetation patterns are highly expressive of ongoing natural coastal processes, and despite the marine farm it retains a strong sense of isolation and wildness. Experiential Attributes: The sensory and experiential attributes of the headland area are considered high within the Ruffin headland HNC area due to the interplay of evident coastal processes and tidal rhythm of the Coromandel Harbour which amplifies the presence of being at the seaside. The highly legible coastal and indigenous regeneration processes and exposed nature of the island together with its separation from the mainland mean that while viewing opportunities are limited, the quality of the natural experience is high. Context / Setting: Ruffin Peninsula and Motukakarikitahi (Rat) Island form part of a sequence of volcanic remnants that connect the mainland with this group of promontories and islands that are prevalent off the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. They are prominent features with the peninsula forming the northern arm of McGregor Bay and the inner waters of Coromandel Harbour. While physically separated, the island is inherently connected to the mainland through its formative processes. The peninsula is close to the township of Coromandel and has been developed with housing. The proximity of the headland HNC area to dwellings impacts on the sense of remoteness and naturalness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The headland landform and island engage directly with the dynamic attributes of the sea and display ephemeral qualities resulting from variations in atmospheric conditions, seasons, tide and wildlife. At the tip of Ruffin Peninsula, Little Passage is particularly dynamic with the formation of sand bars continuously manipulated by the strong pull of the tidal current. The island’s intact coastal edge means it has a clear, direct relationship with the tidal fluctuations of the Coromandel Harbour and dynamic outer waters of the wider seascape. There are also a number of transient and ephemeral qualities resulting from the presence of vegetation, birdlife and marine life, streams and weather conditions. Night-time Values: The proximity of the peninsula to dwellings, particularly in the small bay adjacent to Makariri Bay reduces the night time values of the area however due to the steep relief and intervening vegetation, impacts from light spill are relatively contained and localised. At the island, the presence of lights on the adjacent marine farms begins to impact on the perceived naturalness of the coastal environment at night.

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Hukanui Point & Kikowhakarere Bay

High

Landforms: A central valley is enclosed by two prominent headlands that extend out into Kikowhakarere Bay. A steep elevated ridge connects the two headlands and is characterised by exposed basalt in places. The catchment is moderately dissected by a series of spurs and gullies that drain towards a shelly beach while the margins of the headland are characterised by a rocky shoreline. Overall, the integrity of the

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landform remains intact though it is slightly impacted by the road cuts on the northern side of the valley. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The relatively large and diverse indigenous coastal forest remnants and the coastal edge south of Oamaru Bay characterise this HNC area. Secondary lowland broadleaved forest and small/broadleaved scrublands are the dominant vegetation features in the foothill, while a relatively large stand of the original primary coastal forest dominated by pohutukawa trees feature each side of the Bay, linked by scattered large pohutukawa along the coastal fringe. Because of this relatively intact coastal forest, these forest remnants have been assessed as a potential SNAs of regional significance. However, the gully remnants directly above the bay, which sits north of Hukanui Point, contains predominately manuka/kanuka and are less ecologically valuable when considered separately. However, where fenced from stock, a portion of the southern secondary growth remnants retains several mature, coastal influenced coastal tree species such as puriri and kohekohe. The overall vegetation patterns and composition clearly reinforce the underlying landform of the headland features and gullies systems. Pasture covers the majority of the spurs and upper ridge areas. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Clearly intact intertidal margins and strong connection between the rocky shoreline, shelly beach and adjoining seascape. The seascape has a strong presence within the area as a whole due to its westerly aspect and elevation. Kikowhakarere Bay is heavily tidal and imparts a strong sense of naturalness due to its intactness and evident natural processes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The majority of the headlands are fenced and contain intact coastal habitat. The valley system is farmed with the majority of the spurs and upper ridge cleared of vegetation. The majority of the gullies contain regenerating indigenous vegetation which is fragmented in parts, particularly on the northern side of the valley. No structures or buildings are located in the area. The pastoral areas of the valley system as well as the access roads clearly impact on the overall integrity of the area. Despite the presence of these elements the overall area identified still imparts a sense naturalness. Habitat Value: The forest fragments provides core habitat for instream fauna in the Tatahoa Stream, provides habitat for a range of common indigenous fauna, and contains habitat for nationally at risk and threatened fauna species, as North Island kaka was observed on the day of the site visit and Department of Conservation records show the presence of a number of nationally at risk and threatened indigenous fauna and flora within the locality. The rocky and beach shoreline are likely to provide habitat for a range of seabirds and lizard species. Natural Processes: Strong landform relief and exposed geology within the valley catchment reinforcing formative and ongoing natural processes. Regenerating indigenous vegetation extends from near the coastal margins to the upper slopes of the valley which reinforces the hydrological systems of the catchment –

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although the regenerative processes of the smaller remnants is significantly compromised by stock access, apart from a portion, about 1 ha in size, which is fenced from stock. A permanent stream course flows through the southern gully, though is silted in places. The foredune is compromised by farming activity, however the natural processes associated with the shelly beach and rocky shoreline remain intact. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: A combination of the valley’s enframement by the two vegetated headlands, westerly aspect and strong connection with the seascape, vegetation patterns which reinforce the hydrological systems, and absence of structures impart a high degree of wildness/remoteness. Experiential Attributes: The sensory attributes of the coastal environment are considered high due to the strong connection between the collection of landforms and the adjoining seascape, absence of buildings/structures/roads, and elevated terrain with a westerly aspect which amplifies the presence of being at the seaside. Context / Setting: The valley catchment is inherently connected with the two headlands and reads as a complete character area – due to its enframement and vegetation patterns which reinforce its intact hydrological system. There are very few buildings or areas of modification that are visible from the character area. The seascape and areas of high and outstanding natural character to the north are enframed by the vegetated headlands creating a high degree of association. Orientation towards the Coromandel Harbour creates strong engagement with the wider harbour area. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The westerly aspect and elevated terrain, intact shelly beach and rock shoreline amplify the ephemeral qualities result from atmospheric conditions and tidal processes. Apparent presence of bird life particularly on the headlands. Night-time Values: Very high due to limited visibility of buildings in surrounding areas of the coastal environment. The presence of roads within the character character area and dwellings on Ruffin Peninsula, Long Bay and Kikowhakarere Bay to the north affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. Summary and Key Attributes Overall, it is considered that the valley system is inextricably connected with the two headlands that enclose it. While the areas of pasture are a prominent characteristic of the valley and do impact on the vegetation, landuses, and habitat aspects in the criteria, the other criteria all rate highly. It is considered that there is a predominance of natural elements (as per criteria above) and that those elements together create a cohesive character area which is difficult to separate out or break up.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact headland landforms with contiguous indigenous coastal forest cover.

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2. The rocky/sandy foreshore and intertidal flats - dynamic natural processes 3. The hydrological system of the valleys and how it is reinforced by regenerating indigenous

vegetation. The vegetation patterns and composition clearly reinforce the underlying landform of the headland features and their backdrop.

4. Experiential attributes related to evident natural processes and wildness/remoteness characteristics

5. Absence of structures/building – it is noted that mid to upper valley catchment is particularly sensitive structures/building as are the headlands. The spurs and slopes of the valley at lower elevation are less sensitive where they are hemmed in by vegetation.

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Oamaru Bay and Motpohukuo (Turkey) Island

High

Landforms: This extensive character area comprises low coastal hills between Kikowhakarere Bay and Koputauaki Bay that backdrop the small settlements and alluvial flats. The area includes the headland landform and distinctive point at Golden Bay and Motupohukuo (Turkey) Island beyond. These undulating volcanic slopes are of moderate to steep relief and comprise a sequence of ridges, spurs, gullies and river valleys. Motupohukuo (Turkey) Island is oval in shape, ringed by a rocky foreshore and small sandy beach. It rises steeply from the sea to approximately 35m asl and is clearly expressive of its volcanic origins. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The character area comprises a coastal to lowland sequence of regenerating forest, the vegetation patterns reinforcing the underlying topography. Windswept mature and regenerating forest and scrubland flanks the hills with successional broadleaf species in the gullies and pohutukawa on the coast. Motupohukuo (Turkey) Island is covered in regenerating coastal scrub including some exotic trees. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: While much of this character area is inland, it connects a varied sequence of coastal features, each with a different relationship to the sea; from the riparian margins of Waiwhango Stream and alluvial flats at Koputauaki Bay and Kikowhakarere Bay to the coastal headland at Golden Bay and rocky offshore island. The flat expanse of the inner tidal waters provides a noticeable contrast to the complex coastal edge and rugged profile of the hills. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Despite the presence of marine farms off these bays, wilding pines, large areas of pasture and small settlements and roads adjacent to the HNC area on the mainland, these modifications are subservient to the naturalness achieved through the extensive coastal vegetation and legibility of the coastal headland. There is a low level of development within the character area itself. The presence of a dwelling on Motupohukuo (Turkey) Island is apparent however the remoteness, striking landform and strong engagement with the Hauraki Gulf retain a sense of naturalness.

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Habitat Value: The character area comprises a relatively intact coastal to lowland sequence of regenerating forest. The low modification, extensive forest cover connecting to the greater Coromandel Peninsula forests and landform including valleys, hills, streams, coastal slopes, rocky shore and islands provide varied habitat. Kiwi are present in the wider area. Natural Processes: While the pastoral farming and settlement adjacent to this HNC area represent a change to the natural processes of the coastal environment, the bush clad coastal slopes and the ranges beyond support a diversity of relatively intact native vegetation and legible vegetation patterns and regeneration processes. Together, the landform and vegetation of this HNC area link the high ranges beyond with the streams and the sea; the waterways draining the ridges are expressive of natural hydrological and erosion processes, and contribute to the coastal alluvial processes. The Oamaru Bay/Golden Bay headland and point comprise a steep rocky shoreline overhung by pohutukawa, expressive of dynamic wave action and erosion processes while indigenous vegetation patterns reinforce the relief of the escarpment topography. Motupohukuo (Turkey) Island also clearly conveys the interplay of the underlying landform and coastal erosion with a rocky shoreline and sandy beach. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Despite the proximity to farmland and settlements and the presence of modification such as power lines and a road within part of the character area, the extensive indigenous vegetation cover, complex landform and its connection to the bush clad ranges beyond impart a strong sense of wildness. Motupohukuo (Turkey) Island also retains a sense of wildness and remoteness despite the presence of a dwelling and exotic trees. Experiential Attributes: While the neighbouring settlements create nodes of modification, the sensory attributes associated with the HNC area are considered high due to the complex landform with numerous streams and extensive indigenous vegetation cover which impart a high degree of naturalness and form a prominent backdrop to the coast. The coastal boundaries of the character area provide opportunities for sensory attributes such as those associated with wave and tidal action. The connection between the coastal foothills and the sea is easily appreciable to those travelling the coast road between Oamaru Bay and Golden Bay, the dynamic landform contrasts with the flat expanse of the sea. The legible formative processes and exposed nature of the island together with its separation from the mainland mean that coastal experiential attributes are high. Context / Setting: The character area is part of a contiguous sequence of coastal to lowland forest and elevated bush clad

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hill country beyond further increasing the sense of naturalness. The settlements and associated rural pasture of Koputauaki Bay, Oamaru Bay and Kikowhakarere Bays as well as nearby marine farms start to have an effect on the perceived intactness of the character area but overall remain subservient to the naturalness achieved. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The extensive and varied habitat provided by the large tract of continuous forest and the numerous streams all impart transient qualities which vary with different seasons and weather patterns. The riparian and coastal boundaries of the character area provide opportunities to convey dynamic natural attributes such as those associated with fluctuations in tide and river flow. Night-time Values: The presence of lights from marine farms, vehicles and the nearby settlements of Koputauaki Bay, Oamaru Bay and Kikowhakarere Bays start to have an effect on the perceived intactness of the HNC character area however the focus of this impact is on the western fringes of the character area where the development occurs. Elsewhere, the character area retains a high degree of naturalness.

16

Oahuru Bay and Coastline

High

Landforms: These coastal foothills comprises the low headland and south-facing coastal hill country that enclose and backdrop Oahuru Bay and Koputauaki Bay. The broad promontory is flanked by a rocky shoreline that merges into the shallow tidal shoreline and farmed alluvial flats of Koputauaki Bay. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The inland slopes are clad in relatively intact regenerating coastal indigenous forest and scrubland. Vegetation cover on the headland also consists of a band of regenerating scrubland on the steep coastal margins while pasture characterises the broad ridge that forms the top of the headland. An area of pine trees on the western slopes above Oahuru Bay is apparent and disrupts the cohesion of vegetation cover. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The extensive, tidal and farmed alluvial flats of Koputauaki Bay extend into the waters of the Hauraki Gulf contrasting with the sudden rise in elevation of the headland and rugged profile of the hills, amplifying the prominence of the landforms. While located outside the character area, the estuarine environment within the bay imparts a strong sense of naturalness due to evident natural processes including the relationship with the unnamed creeks draining from these hill slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There is low level of modification within this character area associated with the presence of the pines, pasture and farm tracks on the headland. There are buildings in Oahuru Bay and on the flats in Koputauaki Bay adjacent to the HNC area. However, overall the character area imparts a sense of naturalness due to the clear expression of coastal processes and connection to the sea.

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Habitat Value: The combination of a low level of modification, large tract of vegetation cover, the rocky shore, tidal bays and varied landform including gullies and ridges, all provide a range of habitat opportunities. Natural Processes: The coastal slopes encompass large tracts of indigenous coastal forest and are clearly dominated by natural processes. These are evident in the hydrological and regenerative processes occurring as part of the sequence of vegetation cover and creeks which connect the low coastal hills to the sea. Along the coastal margins, dynamic coastal processes are played out featuring rocky platforms and extensive mudflats, expressive of coastal exposure as well as tidal inundation and estuarine processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: While there are scattered dwellings nearby and associated residential, farming and marine farming infrastructure it is at a low level dominated by coastal rural character. Within the HNC area, the intact landforms, large tracts of vegetation and the prominent relationship with Koputauaki Bay provide a strong sense of wildness/ remoteness. Experiential Attributes: The visual coherence and naturalness associated with the lack of buildings and structures and sizeable pockets of regenerating coastal forest in the character area impart strong sensory and experiential attributes, particularly where the vegetation extends to the coastal edge. The combination of landforms from headland to tidal flats provide varied opportunities to appreciate the coastal environment, from the movement of the tide across the more exposed rocky platforms to the effects of the same ebb and flow on the shallower inner shoreline. Context / Setting: The south facing character area on the fringes of a much greater contiguous sequence of elevated coastal hill country covered in indigenous forest. Nearby settlements and associated rural settlement of Koputauaki Bay as well as marine farms start to have an effect on the perceived intactness of the character area however impacts are currently at a low level and natural attributes remain dominant, particular when considering the character area within the context of the wider forested hill country. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The sequence of forest cover from exposed headland to inner harbour tidal environments provides a range of transient and dynamic attributes that vary with different seasons, times of the day and weather patterns. Transient attributes include those associated with the seasonal habitat provided by the regenerating bush and fluctuations in tide and ephemeral stream flow. Night-time Values: The presence of lights from marine farms, vehicles and the nearby settlement of Koputauaki Bay start to have an effect on the perceived intactness of the HNC character area however the focus of this impact is on the western fringes of the character area where the development occurs. Elsewhere, the

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character area retains a high degree of naturalness.

17

Whawenga Point to Hautapu Point

Outstanding

Landforms: Part of a large volcanic headland, this HNC area comprises a series of spurs and gullies, typically of medium relief, branching off a low coastal ridgeline (199m asl) and descending to the sea. The indented coastline is characterised by the legibility of intact features comprising exposed rocky points, outcrops and shoals, bays, and escarpments. It encompasses the intact south-westerly orientated slopes but excludes the more modified backslopes, facing away from the coast towards the Colville Road corridor. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The character area comprises an extensive tract of endemic vegetation cover comprising regenerating coastal forest and scrubland, and connects to the wider forests of the Coromandel Peninsula. Vegetation patterns reinforce the underlying topography and include mature canopy species, successional broadleaf species in the gullies and pohutukawa dominating the coastal fringes. The vegetation is classified as regionally significant. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The large headland landform and sequence of rocky points extend into the Hautapu Channel off the Hauraki Gulf. The relatively open waters have a very strong engagement with the exposed coastal edge and the flat nature of the sea amplifies the relief of the intact landform. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: These coastal slopes are comprised of intact coastal habitat. Development is largely limited to the marine farming structures and associated activities in the outer waters of Koputauaki Bay and the development off Colville Road including power lines, dwellings and access ways. These modifications are all outside the character area and do not disrupt the integrity and legibility of the underlying landform and continuous coverage of vegetation. Habitat Value: The scale, continuous cover and low modification across these coastal slopes creates valuable habitat opportunities with nationally vulnerable threatened fauna identified as present in the surrounding area according to SNA records. There is also diversity in habitat type provided due to the variety in aspect, elevation, streams, tidal bays and the rocky shoreline. Natural Processes: These coastal slopes are largely covered by a sequence of indigenous coastal forest and are dominated by ecological and regenerative processes. Hydrological patterning and processes are also highly legible in the tributaries draining the slopes, and are reinforced by vegetation types and cover. Closer to the coastal margins, the effects of erosional forces and tidal fluctuations are evident across the headlands, rocky shoals and outcrops, and narrow beaches.

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Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The extensive sequence of regenerating and remnant vegetation including the coastal margins, together with an absence of development including a low level of accessibility, and the landform’s strong engagement with the Hautapu Channel imbue a very strong sense of wildness. The proximity of the northern boundary of the character area to dwellings and a road corridor has the potential to reduce the sense of remoteness, however, due to the orientation of the slopes away from this valley and intervening vegetation, impacts are localised. The exposed character of the coastal features are also highly expressive of ongoing natural coastal processes, and despite the marine farming in Koputauaki Bay which begins to impact on the wildness of the adjacent coastline, overall the area retains a very strong sense of isolation and wildness. Experiential Attributes: There are strong experiential and sensory attributes associated with much of this area due to the prominence of endemic vegetation patterns, distinctive coastal features, the high level of exposure to and interaction with the sea, and the limited modifications including the absence of structures and buildings. The bush covered slopes and undulating ridgeline profile forms the intact northern backdrop to Koputauaki Bay when viewed from across the bay. Context / Setting: This ONC area comprises a large headland landform that extends into the Hautapu Channel and Hauraki Gulf beyond, and marks the northern entrance to Koputauaki Bay. It is part of a wider sequence of pastoral hills with regenerating native forest in valleys. The character area imparts a high degree of naturalness due to its scale and its connection to the wider forested hinterland, despite the nearby road, dwellings, marine farms and farmland. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The headland landform with its intact coastal edge of rocky points and stream gullies draining to small bays displays a clear relationship with the dynamic attributes of the sea and ephemeral qualities resulting from variations in atmospheric conditions, seasons, tide, and stream flows. There are also a number of transient qualities resulting from the indigenous bush cover, birdlife and marine life. Night-time Values: The potential for intrusion from lighting at night is extremely limited due to the lack of dwellings, roads and other modifications within the character area. The Colville Road and nearby dwellings are orientated away from these coastal slopes. The marine farm lights in Koputauaki Bay will have an impact, however, this will be limited to the immediately adjacent coast. The bulk of the ONC area remains free from the effects of lighting at night.

18

Motutapere Island

Outstanding

Landforms: This distinctive volcanic island has a very steep mounded profile rising to 175m asl, characterised by its cone-like shape, escarpments and rocky shoals. Dynamic interaction with the ocean on the south

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and west sides with shallow bays separated by small headlands and rock platforms. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Windswept native coastal vegetation covers the entire island and is classified as nationally under represented and regionally significant. Large pohutukawa and kanuka inhabit the more fertile shallow slopes and hollows giving way to coastal scrub on the ridgelines and steep escarpments. Vegetation patterns reflect its exposure and underlying topography. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Motutapere island occupies the Waimate channel between Waimate Island and Whanganui Island, and the open waters of the Hauraki Gulf beyond. The island is highly expressive of this transition between exposed and sheltered waters. The contrast between the flat profile of the water and the very abrupt rise in elevation of the island amplify the prominence and relief of the landform. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The island is a Scenic Reserve and characterised by its intact landform and coastal vegetation, the lack of modification imparting a very high sense of naturalness. Habitat Value: The steep profile and location of the island means that the range of vegetation patterns, varying aspect and degree of exposure from sheltered bays, and slopes to exposed rocky faces provides opportunities for varied habitats. This includes serving as a link for island bird species. The vegetation is of regional significance as it includes nationally under represented coastal forest. Natural Processes: The island is dominated by natural, ecological and regenerative processes associated with the continuous cover of indigenous coastal forest, hydrological characteristics and dynamic coastal processes played out on the coastal margins featuring rocky outcrops, bluffs, and stony beaches, all highly expressive of tidal interaction and coastal exposure. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The island’s distance from the mainland and relative inaccessibility together with the intact continuous indigenous vegetation cover, unmodified state and expression of coastal processes convey very high remoteness and wilderness values. Experiential Attributes: Experiential and sensory attributes associated with the island are considered very high due to the continuous indigenous vegetation cover and intact exposed nature of the island and interaction with the sea. The steep, vegetated landform contrasts with the flat expanse of the sea and the predominantly pastoral characteristics of adjacent islands. The legible formative processes and exposed nature of the island together with its separation from the mainland mean that coastal experiential attributes are high.

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Context / Setting: Motutapere Island forms part of a larger group of volcanic remnants scattered off the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula and into the Hauraki Gulf. While remote from the mainland and conveying a strong sense of isolation, the island is inherently connected through its formative processes. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The island directly engages with the ebb and flow of the ocean and displays ephemeral qualities resulting from atmospheric conditions, drainage patterns, variations of day / year, tide and the presence of birdlife, marine life and vegetation. The island’s intact coastal edge means it has a clear and direct relationship with the tidal fluctuations of the Coromandel Harbour and the dynamic outer waters of the wider seascape. Night-time Values: There is a very high level of night-time values due to the extremely limited potential for intrusion from lighting at night given the lack of dwellings, roads and other modifications within the character area and its isolation.

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Motukopake and Waimate Islands

High

Landforms: The character area is made up of two islands, each rising steeply from the sea to a prominent ridgeline. Waimate Island is the largest and rises to a height of 130m asl. They are characterised by their linear form and a range of landforms that include headlands, bluffs, escarpments, rocky wave cut platforms and sandy beaches, moderate to steep coastal slopes as well as the close proximity of the islands to each other. Wave and wind erosion have progressively shaped and sculptured the current landform while exposed rock fields across the island surface are expressive of the islands’ formative processes. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: While the ridges of both islands are dominated by pastoral cover, sizeable pockets of remnant and regenerating coastal cliffland forest and small-leaved scrubland inhabit the steep coastal margins and gullies. Vegetation is windswept, reflective of exposure and underlying topography and identified as regionally significant and including nationally sparse flora. On Waimate Island, a cluster of pines and macrocarpa located behind a small beach on the eastern side of the island begins to impact on the integrity. Motukopake Island is characterised by continuous vegetated escarpments on the exposed westerly side and a large pocket of vegetation occupying the eastern slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: A distinctively narrow passage separates these two islands. Together they flank the Waimate Channel and the outer waters of the Hauputu Channel between the Hauraki Gulf and the mainland. The islands are highly expressive of this transition between exposed and sheltered waters. The contrast between the flat profile of the water and the steep rise in elevation of the island amplify the prominence and relief of the landform. The ebb and flow of ocean and its dynamic interaction with the coast including

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the narrow stretch of water between the islands, impart a strong sense of naturalness. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Waimate Island contains several built structures and modifications associated with farming including a stock transfer station, while the waters surrounding Motukopake Island are home to several marine farms. Despite this, the landforms as a whole are intact and remain cohesive and the islands retain a high degree of naturalness. Habitat Value: Habitat values are high given the range of habits that occur on the islands as a result of vegetation patterns, varying exposure (due to aspect), the dynamic tidal shoreline and the varied coastline which provides sheltered bays exposed rocky faces. The islands also provide habitat as kiwi crèche for Project Kiwi and are therefore valued for providing for nationally at risk and threatened fauna and flora species. Natural Processes: The islands have a distinctive, pronounced landform relief and exposed, sculpted bluffs and outcrops revealing the underlying geology and reinforcing formative and active, ongoing natural processes such as wind exposure and coastal erosion. Despite the extensive pastoral land cover, there is a clear interaction between the sequence of regenerating coastal vegetation, the islands’ landform, and the sea - all expressive of natural processes. The close proximity of several mussel farms, in combination with the number of farms in the wider area, starts to impact on perceived naturalness, although the overall integrity of the biophysical and perceptual characteristics remain intact. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of the islands’ remote setting, vegetation patterns, and expression of coastal processes and associated experiential attributes impart a strong sense of naturalness and wilderness despite the modified land cover and presence of built structures onshore. The mussel farms surrounding Motukopake Island begin to reduce the sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: The evident coastal processes associated with the exposed slopes and cliffland areas coupled with the dynamic activity of the sea and the separation of the islands from the mainland mean that experiential attributes are high. Context / Setting: Located 3km west of Ruffin Peninsula, Motukopake and Waimate Islands form a prominent feature between the Hauraki Gulf and the Mainland. They form part of a larger group of islands in this area, a series of volcanic remnants scattered off the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. While remote and conveying a strong sense of isolation, the islands are inherently connected through their formative processes.

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Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The islands’ intact, exposed coastal edge means there is a legible, direct relationship with the tidal fluctuations of the Coromandel Harbour and dynamic outer waters of the wider seascape. The tidal passage between Motukopake and Waimate Islands is narrow and therefore highly expressive of the seas tidal rhythm. Night-time Values: Overall, there is a high degree of naturalness derived from limited exposure to lights. However the presence of marine farm lights in close proximity to Motukopake Island and the north coast of Waimate Island do start to affect the perceived intactness of the adjacent coastal environment.

20

Motuoruhi Island

Outstanding

Landforms: This character area comprises the volcanic island landform of Motuoruhi (Goat) Island, and 3 small but prominent rocky outliers or islets (Motuokino, Motukaramea and Motumorirau Islands). Motuoruhi Island has a very steep mounded profile, rising abruptly to 169m asl and a highly sculpted, indented and craggy coastline. The more exposed, northern shoreline is characterised by craggy bluffs, escarpments, and rocky wave cut platforms. The comparatively sheltered southern shore has sweeping stony beaches between rocky bluffs and headlands. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The windswept, intact native coastal vegetation is considered nationally significant. It covers all four of the islands, and is clearly reflective of coastal exposure and the underlying topography. Mature trees including pohutukawa inhabit the more fertile valleys and shallow slopes giving way to manuka/ kanuka scrublands on ridgelines and rocky crags. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: This cluster of islands mark the northern entrance to the Hauputu Channel between the Hauraki Gulf and the mainland. They are highly expressive of the transition between exposed and sheltered waters and are characterised by the strong coherent interface between seascape and landscape. Intact rocky margins mark a legible transition zone between the waters of the Hauraki Gulf and the sheer rise in landform in places. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: This unmodified island group displays very high levels of naturalness with no human activities or structures apparent on any of the islands. Habitat Value: The isolation, coastal vegetation patterns, varying aspect and exposure, and the tidal shoreline which provides contrast between sheltered bays and exposed rocky faces create opportunities for varied habitat. The vegetation is considered to contain At Risk species on the NZ Threat Classification System.

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Natural Processes: The islands are intact. The sheer, exposed slopes, sculpted rocky outcrops, bluffs, stony beaches and sequence of intact coastal vegetation all rate highly in terms of natural processes, being unmodified and highly expressive of the interplay of tidal rhythm and coastal exposure. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The intact, continuous indigenous vegetation that covers these islands, the unmodified landforms, their exposure to atmospheric conditions and the expression of coastal processes, together with their physical isolation, convey a very strong sense of the remote and a raw and wild character. Experiential Attributes: Their remote setting, absence of structures, unmodified vegetation and exposed rocky islands evoke a strong sense of being divorced from human activity and associated experiential attributes. Context / Setting: These islands are prominent features located 2.5-3km west of the mainland and mark the northern entrance to Hautapu Channel. They form part of a larger group of islands in this area, a series of volcanic remnants scattered off the west coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. This particular character area is characterised by the coherent relationship between the larger island and its ‘satellite’ outliers, approximately 400m-700m offshore. The open waters of the sea provide a dramatic setting for the steep, sculpted island landscape. Marine farms to the south are distant but are impacting on the perceived intactness of the coastal environment at the wider scale. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The intact, exposed coastal edge to these islands means there is a legible, direct relationship with the tidal fluctuations of the Hautapu Channel and dynamic outer waters of the wider seascape. Together with the sequence of unmodified coastal forest and scrubland present on each island, there are strong dynamic and ephemeral qualities resulting from atmospheric conditions, variations of day / year, tide, and the presence of wildlife. Night-time Values: Very high night time values are present given their isolation from the mainland.

21

Motukawau Islands

Outstanding

Landforms: The Motukawau Island group comprises a cluster of more than ten rugged, volcanic islands off the south Colville coast. They range from small rocky outcrops to larger vegetated landforms of moderate relief, typically between 70-80m asl. They are characterised by their sculpted rocky shorelines that include craggy bluffs, escarpments, rocky points, shoals, wave cut platforms, and stony bays. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation on these islands is characterised by the presence of intact, indigenous broadleaved coastal

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forest. Windswept broadleaved coastal scrub clings to the landform, articulating the exposed nature of the island group. Larger trees inhabit hollows, giving way to coastal scrub on rocky faces and exposed ridgelines. Many of the islands contain vegetation cover that has been identified as nationally significant. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: This loose chain of islands lie between the Hauraki Gulf and the mainland, the open waters providing a dramatic, coherent interface between seascape and landscape. The intact, sculpted rocky margins are highly expressive of the level of coastal exposure and as a cluster, the mounded island profiles provide a legible contrast to the flat expanse of the sea. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: These islands are uninhabited. With the exception of marine farming activity located off Motourua Island, the group is devoid of modification, imparting a very high level of perceived naturalness. The marine farm begins to impact on the naturalness of the island’s coastline immediately adjacent to it. Habitat Value: The islands have significant habitat value due to a sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from the mainland. Several of the islands are considered to provide nationally under-represented habitat and the group is considered to be home to many threatened bird species. Motukaramarama Island and neighbouring islands in its cluster provide nesting sites for Australasian Gannets. Natural Processes: The group of islands are characterised by their immediate connection with the sea and natural coastal processes. They are covered by indigenous coastal forest and scrub and serve as ecological stepping stones to other islands. These dominant natural processes are further amplified by the lack of modification. The combination of sheer cliffs, craggy rock formations, rocky shoals and narrow stony beaches provide very strong level of interaction and expression of the coastal processes eroding the underlying volcanic landform. Being small islands heightens the level of coastal exposure. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: This remote and intact group of islands retain very high levels of perceived naturalness through their wild and rugged nature. They comprise well-defined natural landforms, land cover and very limited modification. Evidence of dynamic, ongoing coastal processes and atmospheric conditions heighten the remote, raw and wild character of these islands. Experiential Attributes: The island group have a high level of experiential attributes associated with the direct exposure to the sea and the rugged and wild character of the coastline. The landform profiles and patterning interact directly with the sea and present strong experiential qualities. The distribution of vegetation combined with the windswept form of some species is also highly expressive of coastal processes. Their mounded, bush covered profiles provide an interesting contrast with the sea and highly natural appearance that can be readily appreciated by travellers on the Colville Road.

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Context / Setting: The Motukawau Island group comprises a cluster of more than ten islands between Colville Bay and the Hautapu Channel, located in the eastern Hauraki Gulf some 2-7 kilometres off the Coromandel Peninsula. These rugged, volcanic islands are connected via their underlying geological processes to each other and to the mainland and also serve as ecological stepping stones to one another. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The exposed aspect of this group of islands make them highly receptive to atmospheric conditions and dynamic coastal processes. The rocky shoals and outcrops change daily with the tidal fluctuations and wave action of the open waters. Other ephemeral qualities commonly displayed throughout the islands and which naturally vary during seasons and weather patterns are associated with the changes in vegetation and wildlife. Night-time Values: Very high night time values are present given the absence of potentially obtrusive lighting from dwellings and structures and the isolation from the mainland.

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Papa Aroha

High

Landforms: Steep coastal foothills branch off a prominent ridge. These volcanic landforms rise to a height of approximately 390m asl and comprise a sequence of short parallel spurs and gullies that drain to the sea via multiple waterways. The integrity of the incised landforms is generally intact and expressive of their formative processes. Below the HNC area, the hills are interrupted primarily by the Colville Road that follows the shoreline. Vegetation type, Cover & Patterns: The character area comprises an extensive tract of remnant and regenerating indigenous forest giving way to pasture along ridgelines. Vegetation consists of coastal to lowland scrubland and forest, predominantly kanuka and manuka with broadleaf species in the gullies and the forest features kauri, taraire and pohutukawa. Some exotic trees and plantations, predominantly pines, are found on the margins. The forest has a windswept nature, conveying a strong sense of coastal exposure and is ranked as being internationally significant in the SNA report for the Waikato Regional Council. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Bush clad coastal slopes form a backdrop to the Hauraki Gulf and Motukawao Island Group. The flat expanse of sea amplifies the complexity and steepness of the hills, the land and seascape connected by a narrow rocky shoreline. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The site is bounded by pine forest, pasture, roads and power lines, farm dwellings, sheds, and fences,

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and the settlements at Papa Aroha and Amodeo Bay. Despite the strong rural character to the outlook and nearby bach settlements, the character area itself is predominantly unmodified, which together with its size and connection to extensive landward forest tracts imparts a strong sense of naturalness. Habitat Value: The bush tract within this HNC is part of the internationally significant (SNA) Papa Aroha block. The intact coastal hills with streams and a variety of aspects together with the extensive coastal to lowland forest sequence provide a range of habitat types within the character area. An important ecological feature of the character area is its connection to the vegetated inland ranges of the wider Coromandel Peninsula, offering virtually contiguous linkages of indigenous habitats from the coastal beaches and cliff shorelines through to submontane habitats. Threatened fauna recorded in the block include kiwi, Waikato endemic Archey's frog and Hochstetter's frog. Natural Processes: These volcanic coastal slopes are largely covered by a sequence of indigenous coastal forest and are clearly dominated by ecological and regenerative processes. Natural hydrological patterning and processes are also highly legible in the streams and stream gullies that are reinforced by vegetation types and cover. Together, the landform, streams and vegetation link the high ranges beyond with the coastal margins and the sea. The interplay between remnant vegetation and adjacent rural pasture reinforces landform and erosion processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The expressive landform, large tract of windswept vegetation, lack of modification within the character area and its relationship with the extensive bush covered inland hills, means that despite nearby dwellings, farmland and other development, this area imparts a sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: Sensory and experiential attributes associated with this character area include the clearly articulated hill and ridge sequence, reinforced by vegetation patterns and stream corridors and the presence of wildlife. The lack of built development further contributes to an experience of being in a remote coastal location however the adjacent farmed slopes are more overtly modified which begins to impact on this area’s experiential attributes. Context / Setting: Located between Colville Bay and Coromandel Harbour, these steep exposed coastal hills form a backdrop to the Hauraki Gulf and Motukawao Island Group and are clearly connected to the more elevated forested hinterland of the Coromandel Ranges. The lower coastal margins below these slopes are predominantly rural in character and the presence of wilding pines along the coastal edge intrudes on the perceived intactness and cohesion of the coastal environment as a whole. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and the exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions with the upper slopes being lost to low cloud in adverse weather. The streams

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display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Other notable transient attributes include the presence of wildlife, including threatened species due to the habitat provided by this large tract of bush. Night-time Values: A degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area. Proximity to dwellings at Papa Aroha and Amodeo Bay does start to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. Summary and Key Attributes The character area is characterised by steeply incised, elevated and predominantly bush-clad ridges and gullies. While the remnant and regenerating indigenous forest gives way to small strips of pasture along the ridgelines, the landform is largely intact and expressive of formative processes and the vegetation creates virtually contiguous ecological linkages from the sea to the habitats of the interior ranges. Overall, these elements create a cohesive landscape clearly dominated by natural patterns and processes including ecological and regenerative processes, hydrological and landform patterning and erosion processes.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The internationally significant vegetation and broader ecological linkages with the inland hills create important habitat opportunities - including habitat for threatened fauna such as kiwi, Waikato endemic Archey's frog and Hochstetter's frog.

2. The clearly articulated ridge and gully system is reinforced by vegetation patterns, stream corridors and the presence of wildlife, highly expressive of a range of natural processes. However the slopes below the character area are dominated by pastoral landuse and wilding pines which impacts on the area’s remoteness and experiential attributes and the cohesion of the coastal environment as a whole.

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Amodeo Bay

High

Landforms: This small character area comprises the low coastal orientated slopes and shoreline immediately north of, and forming the backdrop to Amodeo Bay. It is characterised by a coastal hill and gully draining to a stony beach between coastal bluffs and exposed rocky wave cut platforms. Colville Road has resulted in cut escarpments where it passes through the character area which starts to impact the intactness of the landform. The undulating landform and rocky coastal features are expressive of formative processes, creating a sense of naturalness. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation patterns are highly expressive of aspect and the underlying landform. The southern tract of bush is part of the large Papa Aroha block where vegetation consists of Kauri, taraire and pohutukawa forest and coastal to lowland scrubland. Remnant and regenerating pohutukawa forest flanks the hill

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slopes, giving way to pasture in the valley with windswept pioneer species on exposed slopes. Vegetation on the steep coastal bluffs to the north consists of semi-coastal lowland broadleaved forest with puriri, pohutukawa, and kohekohe. Some exotic trees and plantations, predominantly pines, are found on the margins. The opportunity for virtually contiguous linkages of indigenous habitats from the beach and cliff shorelines through to submontane habitats are an important ecological feature of this site. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: These coastal orientated slopes and rocky margins have a strong connection with the adjacent seascape, a narrow foreshore separating the steep vegetated bluffs from the open waters of the Hauraki Gulf. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The character area is dissected by Colville Road and power lines and is adjacent to dwellings and driveways which start to effect the intactness of the natural environment. The valley that is in pasture above Colville Road is part of a contiguous landform sequence that forms the coastal slopes and backdrop to Amodeo Bay and is enclosed by indigenous coastal forest. While the modified pasture begins to reduce the level of naturalness of the character area, the character of the small valley is dominated by the surrounding forest and its relationship to the sea. The character area’s connection to the sea and the extensive forest tracts further inland imparts a strong sense of naturalness. Habitat Value: The southern bush tract within this HNC is part of the internationally significant (SNA) Papa Aroha block while the coastal pohutukawa fringe is classified as regionally significant. The sequence of vegetation cover including mature coastal forest and varied landform including valleys, ridgelines and proximity to Tawhetarangi Stream, provide a range of habitat. An important ecological feature of the character area is its connection to the bush covered hinterland, offering even broader habitat linkages. Threatened fauna recorded in the wider block include kiwi, Waikato endemic Archey's frog and Hochstetter's frog. Natural Processes: The exposed rocky platforms and bluffs are expressive of volcanic formative processes and the interplay with ongoing dynamic coastal processes, particularly of wave action and erosion processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The well-defined natural landforms, particularly the craggy rock cut platforms and vegetated bluffs convey evidence of dynamic, ongoing coastal processes which imparts a sense of wildness to the coastline. However, the modification due to the road corridor and powerlines and the proximity to dwellings and driveways, is starting to effect the perceived intactness and wildness of the vegetated hill slopes as a whole.

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Experiential Attributes: The exposed nature of the landform and strong connection with sea, reinforced by vegetation patterns and atmospheric conditions impart a sense of naturalness within the coastal environment. Context / Setting: This small character area comprises the foothills between Amodeo Bay and Torehina Point. It is part of a contiguous landform sequence of coastal escarpments and slopes characterised by a strong connection with the sea and linkages to the vegetated slopes further inland. The proximity to dwellings and nearby roads is apparent however the natural and ephemeral qualities of the Tawhetarangi Stream network and the strong relationship with both the Hauraki Gulf and the inland ranges provide a sense of naturalness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The coastal boundaries of the character area provide opportunities to convey dynamic interactions with the sea such as those associated with tidal fluctuations and wave activity as well as weather and light conditions. The vegetation cover and types, and proximity to Tawhetarangi Stream also impart transient qualities which vary with different seasons and weather patterns. Night-time Values: While there no dwellings within the character area, lights from vehicles on Colville Road and from dwellings and roads adjacent to the character area start to intrude on the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. Summary and Key Attributes This small coastal hill and gully landscape is part of a contiguous landform sequence that backdrops Amodeo Bay and has a strong connection with the sea despite areas of pasture. The landform, vegetated bluffs and rocky coastal features are expressive of formative processes, creating a sense of naturalness and a cohesive character area. In contrast, the combination of a road cutting and presence of a dwelling and water tanks on the ridge creates a clear area of modification excluded from the character area.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. While modified pasture in the character area begins to reduce the level of naturalness, the landform remains legible and the character of the small valley continues to be dominated by the surrounding coastal forest and its relationship to the sea.

2. Ecological linkages between the sea and the bush covered hills inland create important habitat opportunities including habitat for threatened fauna such as kiwi, Waikato endemic Archey's frog and Hochstetter's frog.

3. Vegetation includes part of the internationally significant (SNA) Papa Aroha block, however there are also exotic trees and plantations on the margins.

4. Experiential attributes related to strong connection with sea and ongoing coastal and formative processes.

5. The cut escarpments associated with Colville Road and driveways and proximity to nearby

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dwellings start to impact the intactness of the landform and coastal connection and have the potential to dominate the character of this small character area.

24 - New

Waitete Bay and Tukituki Bay - North

High

Landforms: These undulating north facing coastal slopes are part of the larger headland that forms Te Whau Point. The coherent face comprises a pattern of multiple spurs and gullies of medium to steep relief forming a series of tributaries draining to the southern Colville Bay coastline. The character area also includes a small vegetated northeast orientated valley on the backslopes which has a less direct connection with the coast The shoreline within and below the HNC area exhibits a largely intact sequence of rock platforms continuing into the bay from Te Whau Point, and narrow tidal beaches between small rocky points. The overall character is of a coherent landform, clearly characterised by its northerly aspect and connection with Te Whau Point and Colville Bay. Physical modification to the landform within the HNC area is largely limited to a narrow access road and a scattering of dwellings. Visibility of both is low due to the vegetation covering the slopes. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Land cover within the HNC area is characterised by the dominance of largely intact vegetation cover. It has been identified in the SNA report for the Waikato Regional Council as having national significance. The northern coastal slopes form part of the Opuhi Forest, the report identifying the vegetation in this area as coastal regenerating native forest including manuka, kanuka and broadleaf with components of mature canopy species representing the original vegetation type. The inland northeast orientated valley included in this HNC area comprises semi-coastal lowland broadleaved forest of regional significance. The valley is immediately adjacent to but separated from the greater tract of coastal forest by a cleared ridge of pasture. Species noted include puriri, pohutukawa, kohekohe, emergent kahikatea and kanuka. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The character area serves as a large part of the southern backdrop to Colville Bay. It is characterised by the strong coherent interface between seascape and landscape. Intact rocky intertidal margins mark a legible transition zone between the flat waters of outer Colville Bay and the sudden rise in landform that shelters them. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: These coastal slopes are predominantly comprised of intact coastal habitat. Development is primarily focused around the shoreline and lower slopes outside the HNC area and includes Wharf Road and scattered dwellings with small garden and lawn areas. However Wharf Road leaves the shoreline to

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wind up the face of the slopes towards Te Whau point, providing access to a few dwellings situated within the HNC area. These land uses do not disrupt the scale and integrity of the underlying landform and continuous coverage of vegetation. The surrounding regenerating scrub and forest is largely intact and part of a broader legible sequence of coastal slopes and therefore retains a strong sense of naturalness. The ridge at the top of these northern coastal slopes forms the HNC boundary and is characterised by a change to pasture. The modified pasture surrounds and impacts on the natural processes of the tract of forest in the adjacent northeast orientated valley however it is sufficiently large and in close proximity to the greater forest area to retain a high level of naturalness. Habitat Value: The scale and continuous cover provided across these coastal slopes creates valuable habitat opportunities with national vulnerable threatened fauna identified as present in the Opuhi Forest SNA records. There is also diversity in habitat type provided due to the variety in aspect, elevation, streams, and the rocky shoreline. Natural Processes: The coastal slopes are largely covered by indigenous coastal forest and are clearly dominated by natural processes. These are evident in the ecological and regenerative processes occurring as part of the mosaic of vegetation cover which extends to the sea in places. Hydrological systems are also evident in the tributaries draining the slopes and reinforced by vegetation types and cover. Along the coastal margins, dynamic coastal processes are played out featuring rocky platforms, and outcrops, and narrow stony beaches, highly expressive of tidal ebb and flow and effects of coastal exposure. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The scale of largely intact continuous indigenous vegetation cover that dominates these hills together with the expression of coastal processes convey a strong sense of the remote and ‘undomesticated’, despite the gravel road access and scattering of dwellings in the area and nearby. Experiential Attributes: The visual coherence and naturalness associated with this large tract of continuous coastal forest also impart strong sensory and experiential attributes. The type of experience will vary with the undulating landform and is particularly amplified where the vegetation extends to the coastal edge. Other coastal experiences are also clearly associated with the proximity to the sea including the movement of the tide across the rocky platforms. The north facing aspect and connection to sheltered bay waters provide a different experience from more exposed ‘wild’ areas. Context / Setting: These north facing slopes form part of the southern arm of Colville Bay, a large volcanic headland landform that marks the mouth of the bay at Te Whau Point. The character area also forms part of a bigger tract of native vegetation adding to the sense of naturalness. The elevated, complex, vegetated

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headland contrasts with the flat alluvial, grazed plains at the head of the bay. The nearby dwellings along Wharf Road and even the small settlement of Colville are subservient in the context of the wider rural landscape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The northerly aspect and elevated landform make the character area receptive to a variety of different weather patterns with the upper slopes being lost to low cloud in adverse weather. The regenerating and mature habitat cover, the streams and the rocky margins all convey ephemeral qualities resulting from seasonal variations, tidal processes and the presence of birdlife and other fauna. Night-time Values: The presence of dwellings in the area and along Wharf Road, as well as vehicles moving along the road impact the perceived integrity of the natural environment at night due to light pollution. Summary and Key Attributes These coastal slopes are considered to display high natural character due primarily to the large tract of relatively intact coastal forest that covers both this area and the adjoining area at Te Whau Point. While the road and dwellings are features characteristic of the coastline and lower slopes, overall the scale and quality of the vegetation, habitat, natural processes and experiential aspects as well as the coherent relationship of the landform with the Colville Bay seascape, all rate highly. Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The large contiguous indigenous coastal forest cover within the area and in the wider setting including the habitat it provides, the regenerative processes present, the ecological networks it supports and the sense of natural wilderness it conveys.

2. The largely intact sloping landform, the coherent transition between it and the flat waters of Colville Bay and the sheltering backdrop these slopes provide to the bay.

3. The expression of natural coastal processes in the contiguous rocky foreshore and the movement of tides.-

4. The hydrological system of the tributaries that drain the catchment and reinforce the connection between landscape and seascape.

5. The limited location and limited visibility of development including structures/buildings which are distributed near the boundaries of the area limiting their impact on intactness and integrity.

25

Te Whau Point

Outstanding

Landforms: This character area comprises the point of a large headland landform and the western facing coastal slopes that descend from the single prominent ridgeline. The landform within this area is characterised by the steadily rising, intact profile of the ridgeline, the relatively uniform, moderately steep gradient across the slopes, and the rocky shoals, outcrops, bluffs, and stony bays along the shoreline. It includes Oruapopou Island, a distinctive vegetated outcrop, separated from the mainland by a narrow,

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shallow passage. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation on these slopes is characterised by the presence of intact, regenerating forest including mature pohutukawa across the majority of the character area. It is part of a larger block of vegetation that is considered to be of national significance. The indigenous vegetation patterns reinforce the landform with the forest cover giving way to pioneer coastal scrublands and small areas of pasture on ridgelines and exposed coastal slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Te Whau Point forms the prominent southern arm enclosing Colville Bay. The steep dynamic coastal landform provides dramatic engagement with the sheltered bay and the exposed open waters of the Hauraki Gulf. The ebb and flow of ocean and its dynamic interaction with the coast is amplified where the narrow stretch of water separates Oruapopou Island from the mainland and imparts a strong sense of naturalness. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There is very little development within this area. The coastal slopes are predominantly comprised of intact coastal habitat with the pastoral ridge line and scattered dwellings subservient to the greater interplay of coastal landforms, regenerating forest and the sea. Habitat Value: The coastal regenerating forest cover is part of a much larger Opuhi forest block which provides an ecological sequence connecting the foothills to coastal marine area. Together with the intact rocky intertidal margins, the extensive vegetation cover provides opportunities for a variety of habitats. Nationally vulnerable threatened fauna are recorded as present. Natural Processes: The area is characterised by its immediate connection with the sea and natural coastal processes. The dynamic coastal edge features exposed rocky platforms and bluffs, highly expressive of volcanic formative processes and the interplay with ongoing dynamic coastal processes, particularly of wave action and erosion processes. These dominant natural processes are further amplified by the indigenous vegetation cover and low level of modification. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The headland retains a high level of naturalness through its rugged character. The character area comprises moderately steep coastal slopes with a contiguous sequence of coastal vegetation terminating with craggy rocky outcrops and a very low level of modification. Most of the slopes are orientated towards the Hauraki Gulf providing a strong sense of remoteness while evidence of dynamic, ongoing coastal processes heightens the strong sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: Experiential attributes are high. The visual coherence and evident coastal processes associated with

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the uniform slopes of the headland landform, the large tract of continuous coastal forest, and the exposed nature of the coastal margin impart strong sensory and experiential attributes. Context / Setting: This HNC area comprises the western slopes and promontory of Te Whau Point, a large volcanic headland landform that marks the mouth of Colville Bay. This headland landscape is characterised by a very strong visual coherence and integrity despite the presence of some development. It incorporates a large tract of continuous vegetation within the area and in the wider setting, connecting a sequence of ecological networks including supporting a range of important habitats and regenerative processes. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The headland directly engages with the ebb and flow of the ocean and displays ephemeral qualities resulting from atmospheric conditions, drainage patterns, variations of day / year, tide and the presence of birdlife, marine life and vegetation. The craggy, intact coastal edge including Oruapopou Island, means it has a highly expressive relationship with the dynamic tidal fluctuations and wave activity of the sea. Night-time Values: Overall, night time values are high due to the low level of modification and coastal slopes that are orientated away from landward development. There is potential for some intrusion from lights due to the presence of scattered dwellings on Te Whau Point and Wharf Road which winds its way up to the prominent ridgeline. However they currently remain subservient to the high level of intactness of the coastal environment.

26

Tokawhero Point

High

Landforms: Tokawhero Point is a relatively intact peninsula of volcanic origins, projecting out into the inner waters of Colville Bay. The HNC area is characterised by moderate slopes rising to a single ridgeline from a narrow rocky and shelly shoreline, including escarpments and rock platforms. The tidal flats of Colville Bay and Wangaaehi Bay provide a strong contrast with the moderate relief of the landform. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The promontory is flanked in mature coastal forest including pohutukawa, kanuka and treefern with underlying coastal scrub. Large trees inhabit gullies giving way to coastal scrub on steep rocky escarpments, highly expressive of the underlying landform. Some mangroves occupy the intertidal flats. The vegetation provides an ecological link from the sea to the large tract of nationally significant forest (the Waikanae block) immediately adjacent, east of Colville Road. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The point protrudes into the middle of Colville Bay, enclosing and framing the smaller Whangaahei Bay from the south. The contrast between the flat profile of the bays and the sudden rise in elevation of the peninsula amplify the prominence and relief of the landform. The extensive intertidal nature of Colville

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Bay comprises scattered mangroves and mudflats which are highly expressive of the dynamic interaction with the Hauraki Gulf. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The HNC area is largely unmodified and partly in Scenic Reserve, imparting a strong sense of naturalness. The Colville Road corridor winds over the promontory, cutting into the slopes, creating a modified eastern boundary to the character area and providing access to a few discreetly located dwellings. With this development clustered at the eastern end amongst mature canopies, the dominant character of the point currently remains natural with relatively intact coastal habitat and a greater interplay between the coastal landform and the sea. Habitat Value: There is a high diversity of habitat types with expansive estuarine environments, rocky shorelines, and remnant and regenerating coastal forest habitat combined with a low level of modification. The adjacent inland forest is recorded as providing a significant north - south link for the nationally threatened species present. Natural Processes: The distinctive landform relief, eroding escarpments and exposed volcanic rock platforms reinforce formative and ongoing natural processes whilst the shallow tidal flats conveying the dynamic interaction between the nearby Maurea, Kairaumati and Umangawha Streams and the ebb and flow of the ocean. The regenerative processes of the indigenous vegetation cover and relatively intact sequence between the mudflats and coastal forest also support important ecological processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The patterns of vegetation and the landform’s engagement with the vast intertidal flats imbue a sense of wilderness to the coastal environment. The proximity to roading and dwellings reduces the sense of remoteness however due to the topography and mature vegetation, impacts are localised. Experiential Attributes: There are a variety of sensory and experiential attributes present in the area associated with the exposed nature of the linear peninsula landform and its strong connection with the inner waters of Colville Bay - in particular, the interaction with the large tidal variations in the surrounding waters imparts a sense of naturalness. Context / Setting: The point forms the southern arm of Whangaahei Bay, dividing the inner waters of Colville Bay which have a strong relationship with nearby Maurea, Kairaumati and Umangawha Streams. The headland is part of a long prominent ridge that connects back to the peak above Kaiaumati Stream (281m asl). It is separated from these inland hills by the Colville Road corridor but continues to have a strong relationship via the almost contiguous, extensive tract of indigenous forest enhancing the sense of naturalness. The nearby areas of modification including the road network, dwellings at Whangaahei, production forestry and pastoral land start to affect the perceived integrity of the wider coastal

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environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The promontory directly engages with the dynamic ebb and flow of the bays, and displays ephemeral qualities resulting from atmospheric conditions, variations of day / year, tide and wildlife. Dynamic attributes around the more exposed rocky point are evident with the variations in weather and wave action. The more enclosed estuarine environment displays ephemeral qualities resulting from the highly expressive and changeable intertidal flats, channels and mangrove habitat. Night-time Values: The proximity of the road network and the presence of dwellings, within and nearby to the character area, start to have an effect on the perceived intactness of the natural environment at night due to light pollution.

27

Otautu Point to Waiaoro

High

Landforms: This character area comprises a sequence of volcanic foothills and alluvial flats of contrasting relief. At the northern end, the Waiaro Stream estuary and coastal plains are flanked by steep coastal headlands that rise sharply from the legible tidal flats, connected by a long gravel beach. The coastal plain contains two tidal inlets separated by a broad flat ridge of pasture which has been excluded from this area of high natural character. Exposed rock formations are evident across the headland escarpment and around the coastal margin. The coastal landforms between Te Kawau Point and Otautu Point to the south feature rolling, volcanic coastal foothills and headlands. The coastal edge comprises eroding rocky shoals and outcrops interspersed by a series of stony bays, gravel banks and rocky wave-cut platforms. The sequence of coastal escarpments through this area remain intact however some inland sections of these foothills have been recently modified by access way cuts. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The vegetation cover and patterns in this HNC area demonstrate an interplay of regenerating and indigenous forest remnants and pasture, reinforcing the variations in the underlying topography. Mature coastal forest species including pohutukawa, puriri and karaka cover the seaward facing escarpment of the northern headlands while the inland slopes are characterised by pasture and patches of shrubland. The gravel beach connecting them is a seasonal home to nationally threatened shorebird species. Saltmarsh and small stands of mangroves and mature pohutukawa are evident in the estuary margins while pasture dominates the inland plains. The inland slopes from Te Kawau Point south are characterised by large areas of open pasture and pine plantations however pockets of regenerating indigenous coastal forest occupy the steep upper gully areas across the seaward facing catchments. The sequence of coastal escarpments through this area

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which are largely covered in indigenous forest with the exception of Turipeka Point which includes pine plantation backed by open pastoral slopes. The inland area facing Port Jackson Road is characterised by pasture on the upper slopes and manuka scrub covering the lower slopes. The manuka appear in aerial photos to have been sprayed in patches for grazing and access purposes. The inland facing slopes have a reduced connection and interface with the coastal edge and are influenced more directly by the larger tracts of pasture and farming activity opposite. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The Waiaro Stream estuarine environment and river mouth imparts a strong sense of naturalness due to the clear intactness of the tidal flats and highly evident natural processes including the strong connection with the wider seascape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: While there is limited development within the HNC area in terms of buildings and structures, modified pastoral farming activities are prevalent throughout the nearby coastal environment. Modifications within and in close proximity to the Waiaro plains include a small causeway near the estuary entrance, drainage channels, and the Port Jackson Road and access cuts along its margins. The wider coastal environment south of Te Kawau Point is also modified and includes large areas of open pasture, prominent access way cuts, and pine plantations. Sections of the hydrological catchments between the headland of Turipeka Point and Otautu Point are largely intact but have been recently modified by access way cuts. The small areas of pasture included within the HNC area are subservient to the more prominent interplay of coastal vegetation, landform relief and the open waters of the Hauraki Gulf. Habitat Value: This area provides a wide variety of habitat types from the intact estuarine environment with saltmarsh, mangrove and pohutukawa in the intertidal margins to the sequence of ridgelines, streams, the rocky bluffs and beaches all supporting different flora and fauna. The gravel beach at the mouth of the Waiaro Stream and estuary provides habitat for nationally threatened shorebird species. Natural Processes: Dynamic coastal processes are evident in the exposed rock and escarpment formations around the coastal margins of the HNC area. The stream fluctuations and the tidal variation in the estuarine area are expressive of natural hydrological processes following precipitation and the dynamic transition zone between river and maritime environments. The sequence, patterning and windswept appearance of vegetation within the area is highly expressive of natural processes. Pockets of regenerating indigenous coastal forest occupy the steep upper gully

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areas across the seaward facing catchments emphasising hydrological patterns/processes as well as forming a strong physical and visual link to the coastal edge. Despite surrounding pastoral land use and other modifications, overall the level of coastal exposure affords the landscape a high degree of naturalness. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The patterns of windswept vegetation, exposed coastal landforms, low level of built structures and engagement with the seascape of the Hauraki Gulf all imbue a sense of rawness and wildness to the coastal environment. Experiential Attributes: The experiential/ sensory attributes are evident in the coastal processes associated with the exposed nature of the headlands and interaction with the Waiaro Stream and tidal estuary. Context / Setting: Part of a sequence of coastal plains and foothills within a wider context of more elevated pastoral ridges and valleys moving up into the forest flanked foothills and mountains of the Moehau Range. The limited presence of roads, buildings and structures imbues the wider coastal environment with a sense of remoteness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The headland landforms directly engage with the dynamic ebb and flow of the Hauraki Gulf. The Waiaro Stream and estuarine environment display ephemeral qualities resulting from the highly expressive tidal rhythms, atmospheric conditions, seasonal variations and the presence of wildlife. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the absence of dwellings and structures. Summary and Key Attributes While grazing activities are prevalent within the wider coastal environment, the sequence of coastal landforms and patterning of vegetation types, combined with the tidal rhythm of the estuary are highly expressive of natural processes. The low level of structures and buildings and the interaction of coastal landforms with the sea contribute to a high degree of wildness. Key attributes that are sensitive to change include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The exposed rock formations evident across the northern headland escarpment and around the coastal margin.

2. The sequence and patterning of vegetation types within the estuary and adjacent headland, combined with the tidal rhythm of the estuary which are highly expressive of natural processes.

3. The habitat provided by the gravel beach, for the nationally threatened shorebirds. 4. The sequence of intact coastal escarpments between Te Kawau Point and Otautu Point

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characterised by wave cut platforms, exposed sections of rock, and indigenous forest cover. 5. Low level of structures/building and earthworks within the HNC character area. The coastal

margins – the escarpments, headlands, tidal inlets and areas of estuarine vegetation and mature coastal forest are particularly sensitive to built development and earthworks.

28

Otautu Bay

High

Landforms: Intact landform exhibits strong relief. The character area lies on the coastal edge of the greater Moehau Range consisting of ridgelines, hollows and valleys with coastal facing slopes. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Consistent indigenous vegetation cover across the character area reflects underlying topography and comprises native remnant and regenerating coastal forest. The wind swept nature of the vegetation coupled with the complexity of plant commies impart a high degree of naturalness. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The flat expanse of the Firth of Thames amplifies the relief and prominence of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The character area is devoid of built form and therefore imparts a high degree of naturalness. Habitat Value: Low modification, extensive forest cover and landform including valleys, ridgelines, streams and coastal slopes provide varied habitat. Natural Processes: Coastal landforms. Interplay of indigenous forest with regeneration shrublands and exposed slopes reinforce areas of coastal erosion and stream entrenchment. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Despite the rural outlook, the extensive vegetation cover and the expressive nature of the underlying landform imbues a sense of wilderness. Experiential Attributes: The scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform flanked by extensive indigenous forest impart a high degree of naturalness. Context / Setting: Rural outlook is subservient to the contiguous sequence of indigenous forest the flanks the Moehau Range.

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Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and the exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions. The streams display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road and dwellings at Otautu Bay start to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment.

29

Moehau Range Near Turipeka Point

High

Landforms: This small HNC area comprises the lower slopes of inland, coastal orientated hill country. The slopes are characterised by a sequence of intact moderate to steep ridges and gullies rising upwards to connect with the much greater, complex Moehau Range, highly expressive of its underlying geological origins. The character area encompasses the catchments of unnamed creeks draining into the Waiaro estuary, and serves as part of the backdrop to the bay and intertidal flats. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The extensive indigenous coastal forest covering these slopes reinforces the underlying landform. It forms part of the large Moehau Forest block which consists of a continuous coastal to montane forest sequence, including mature primary and regenerating forest and is considered of national significance. The wind swept nature of the vegetation coupled with the complexity of plant communities impart a high degree of naturalness. The western coastal boundary of the character area is adjacent to large tracts of pasture which dominate the Waiaro valley bottom and lower slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Although this character area is inland, the estuarine seascape has a strong presence on these lower coastal orientated slopes as well as within the wider valley as a whole. The Waiaro estuary and flats are heavily tidal and despite farming modifications convey a strong sense of their transitional role between river and coastal environments including the relationship with the unnamed creeks draining from this HNC area. The extensive flats contrast with the rise in elevation of these hill slopes, amplifying the prominence of landform. evident natural processes Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There are no apparent built forms or structures present within this character area and therefore it imparts a high degree of naturalness. Pasture and farming activities border the character area however due to the terrain and connection with the extensive vegetation landward, impacts remain limited to the edges of the HNC area and subservient to its high level of naturalness in the context of the wider landscape.

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Habitat Value: The very low level of modification, intact forest cover and landform, and connection to extensive forest ranges inland, including valleys, ridgelines, streams and coastal slopes provide opportunities for varied habitat. Moehau's forests have been recognised as one of the top six sites for biodiversity nationally. Natural Processes: The contiguous tracts of indigenous forest cover in the gullies and ridges of the HNC area and beyond are reflective of the underlying geological formative processes and support ongoing regeneration processes. This intact sequence of ridges and valleys also support hydrological and estuarine processes as well as providing habitat linkages from the coast to elevated ranges. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The intact vegetation cover and connection to more extensive forested ranges beyond, together with the legibility of the underlying landform imbues a sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: The rising landform and steep relief flanked by extensive indigenous forest impart a high degree of naturalness and form part of a prominent backdrop to the Waiaro estuary flats. While the presence of pasture on the lower slopes reduces the level of naturalness, it provides a visually prominent contrast, amplifying the coherence and integrity of the forested landforms above. Context / Setting: This small HNC area comprises the lower slopes of inland, coastal orientated hill country back dropping the Waiaro valley and estuary flats. The slopes are on the fringes of and characterised by their legible connection with the much greater Moehau Range including their contribution to a continuous coastal to montane forest sequence. Despite adjacent farming modifications on the lower slopes and valley bottom, there is strong relationship between waterways, their wider catchments and the coastal environment including the unnamed creeks draining from this HNC area. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: As part of an elevated landform with moderate to steep relief and coastal orientation, the character area is receptive to changing weather and atmospheric conditions. The creeks display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns and contribute to changes in the estuary. Night-time Values: Port Jackson Road crosses the flats below this character area providing opportunities for vehicle lights to intrude however impacts will be limited and overall a high degree of naturalness is derived from the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area, the terrain and vegetation cover.

30

Moehau Range North of Te Kawau Point

High

Landforms: This large area of intact coastal foothills enclose the Urarima Stream catchment and are characterised by a sequence of prominent ridgelines and deeply incised valleys draining to the sea. The complex

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landform exhibits strong relief expressive of formative processes and lies on the coastal fringes of the greater Moehau Range. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The extensive indigenous coastal forest and scrublands covering these slopes reinforce the underlying landform. The vegetation in this character area forms part of the large Moehau Forest block which consists of a continuous coastal to montane forest sequence, including mature primary and regenerating forest and is considered of national significance. The wind swept nature of the vegetation is expressive of coastal exposure and reinforces the topography and pronounced relief of the landform. The character area excludes the modified pastoral flats on the terraces around the river mouth. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The hills form part of the rugged mountainous backdrop to the Hauraki Gulf, the waterways within, draining to the sea. The flat expanse of the coastal waters amplifies the relief and prominence of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The landform and vegetation cover are largely unmodified, imparting a high degree of naturalness. There is some tracking through the bush and a few small areas of pasture at the edges of the character area. The coastal boundaries of the character area border larger tracts of pastoral farmland and associated buildings at Urarima and the unsealed Port Jackson Road. However these modifications remain peripheral to the natural attributes displayed within the extensive, largely contiguous bush covered foothills. Habitat Value: The very low level of modification, extensive, intact forest cover and landform, and connection to extensive forest ranges inland, including valleys, ridgelines, streams and coastal slopes provide opportunities for varied habitat. Moehau's forests have been recognised as one of the top six sites for biodiversity nationally. Natural Processes: The contiguous tracts of indigenous forest cover in the valleys and ridges of the HNC area and ranges beyond are reflective of the underlying geological formative processes and support ongoing regeneration processes. This intact sequence of ridges and valleys also support hydrological processes as well as supporting ecological networks from the coast to elevated ranges. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The extensive vegetation cover and the legible landform imbues a strong sense of wilderness and isolation. This is further enhanced through the absence of sealed roads, the windswept nature of the vegetation and connection to both the wider Moehau Range and the exposed coastline. Where pastoral farmland borders the HNC area, the sense of modification begins to impact the level of wildness although this is largely limited to the character area boundaries.

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Experiential Attributes: There are strong experiential and sensory attributes associated with this area due to the scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform overlaid with extensive indigenous vegetation as well as direct exposure to and interaction with the sea in places. The limited presence of buildings and development within, and in the vicinity of the character area further amplifies the experience of being in a remote coastal location. Context / Setting: This large area comprises the lower slopes of coastal orientated hill country that encloses and backdrops the Urarima Stream catchment. It is on the fringes of the extensive Moehau Range, the spine of this northern end of the Coromandel Peninsula. There is also a strong relationship between the waterways draining from this steep, incised HNC area and the wider coastal environment. While the contrast with adjacent pasture covered river terraces at Urarima is noticeable it remains subservient in the context of the wider landscape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and the exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions. The streams and extensive vegetation display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Where the character area is adjacent to the coastline, there is a legible interplay between the exposed landform and dynamic outer waters of the Gulf, despite the presence of the gravel road. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road and a few nearby dwellings will have minimal effect on night-time values.

31

Moehau Range North of Hope Stream

High

Landforms: These steep elevated coastal slopes descend from a prominent, truncated ridge, 650m asl, to the sea, and extend north to include the hill slopes above Ongohi Stream. The character area is characterised by intact landforms comprising very steep spurs and gullies drained by numerous streams but also incorporates the more moderate Ongohi Stream valley slopes. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Most of the character area is overlaid in extensive indigenous coastal forest and scrublands that are part of the large Moehau Forest block, a continuous coastal to montane forest sequence including mature primary and regenerating forest. It is considered to be of national significance. Where the character area descends to the coast, it incorporates fragments of coastal broadleaved pohutukawa forest. The vegetation patterns and the windswept nature of coastal exposed slopes reinforce the natural processes and underlying landform. ON the lower slopes above Ongohi Stream and on some ridges, regenerating forest cover gives way to pasture.

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Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: These slopes form part of the rugged profile and mountainous backdrop to the Hauraki Gulf, the waterways within, draining to the sea. The flat expanse of the coastal waters amplifies the relief and elevation of these very steep coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The landform and vegetation cover are largely unmodified, imparting a high degree of naturalness. There are a few small areas of pasture and the coastal boundaries of the character area border larger tracts of pastoral farmland and the unsealed Port Jackson Road is in close proximity. However while these modifications are noticeable, they remain subservient to the natural elements, patterns and processes of the wider landscape. Habitat Value: The very low level of modification, extensive, intact forest cover and landform, and connection to extensive forest ranges of Moehau, including valleys, ridgelines, and numerous streams provide opportunities for varied habitat. Moehau's forests have been recognised as one of the top six sites for biodiversity nationally. Natural Processes: The contiguous indigenous forest cover over this HNC area and extending to the elevated ranges beyond are reflective of the underlying geological formative processes and support ongoing regeneration processes. The intact sequence of ridges and valleys are also expressive of natural erosion and hydrological processes as well as supporting ecological linkages from the coast to the hinterland. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The extensive vegetation cover and the steepness and elevation of the landform convey a strong sense of wilderness and remoteness. This is further amplified by the absence of sealed roads, the windswept nature of the vegetation and the connection to the wider Moehau Range. Experiential Attributes: There are strong experiential and sensory attributes associated with this area due to the scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform overlaid with extensive indigenous vegetation. The limited presence of buildings and development, including the unsealed roads, together with the strong coastal influence on the elevated slopes further amplifies the experience of being in a remote coastal location. Context / Setting: These coastal slopes between Hope Stream and Ongohi Stream descend from a prominent ridge that is directly connected to the peak of Moehau, the high point of the mountainous interior range (892m asl). There is also a strong relationship between the waterways draining from this steep, incised HNC area and the wider coastal environment. While adjacent pasture and farming activities are noticeable they remain peripheral to the context of the wider landscape.

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Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and the exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions. The streams display transient qualities with variations in season and weather patterns. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road and a few nearby dwellings will have minimal effect on night-time values.

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Moehau Range North of Ongohi Stream

High

Landforms: Dynamic landform with moderate relief falling to coastal flats. The landform comprises an assemblage of prominent ridgelines and steep valleys. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Ongohi Stream is shrouded in native vegetation whilst the remaining areas of the low lying valley surrounds are predominantly pasture. This pasture transitions to native forest on steeper slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The flat expanse of the Firth of Thames amplifies the relief and prominence of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Areas of pasture remain subservient in the context of the wider landscape. Habitat Value: Low modification, extensive forest cover and landform including valleys, ridgelines, streams and coastal slopes provide varied habitat. Natural Processes: The underlying landform is expressive of formative processes coupled with natural erosion. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Presence of farming activities limit the perception of naturalness however given the remote location and the strong sense of exposure to the elements, there is a sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: The scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform flanked by extensive indigenous forest impart a high degree of naturalness. Context / Setting: While adjacent pasture and farming activities are noticeable they remain subservient to the contiguous

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sequence of indigenous forest that flanks the Moehau Range. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and the exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions. The streams display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road and a few nearby dwellings will have minimal effect on night-time values.

33

Ohinewai Stream to Fantail Bay

High

Landforms: These intact coastal slopes feature incised gullies and spurs that descend sharply from a prominent elevated ridgeline over 700m asl, connecting the rugged Moehau Range to the rocky shoreline. Numerous streams and tributaries drain the area. Coastal features are characterised by a combination of rocky wave cut platforms and outcrops and predominantly stony bays while boulder strewn grassy slopes are highly expressive of the underlying geology. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Most of the character area is overlaid in extensive indigenous coastal forest and scrublands that are part of the large Moehau Forest block, including mature primary and regenerating forest and considered to be of national significance. Where the character area descends to the coast, the vegetation gives way to pasture with pockets of coastal and semi coastal broadleaved/ pohutukawa forest in stream gullies including the tributary and inland slopes immediately north-west of Darkie Stream which are characterised by a series of broad ridges and valleys comprising bush remnants and pasture which help to express the underlying landform. Pohutukawa also line the rocky shore. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The steep, predominantly bush clad slopes descend sharply from considerable height, directly into the Hauraki Gulf providing a strong visual relationship between the landscape and seascape and a high level of exposure to coastal processes. The contrast between the flat profile of the ocean and the sudden rise in elevation of the landform amplify the prominence and relief of the ridgelines and coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The landform and vegetation cover are largely unmodified, imparting a high degree of naturalness. There are tracts of pasture within the character area and associated tracks and fencing, as well as scattered dwellings and unsealed roads. However while these modifications are noticeable, particularly where the baches are located on the foreshore, they are focused around the coastal margins and lowers slopes and remain subservient to the natural elements, patterns and processes of the wider

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landscape. Habitat Value: The very low level of modification, extensive, intact forest cover and landform providing a sequence of vegetation from the rocky shoreline to elevated hill slopes including valleys, ridgelines, and numerous streams, provide a high level of varied habitat. Moehau's forests have been recognised as one of the top six sites for biodiversity nationally. Natural Processes: The high level of indigenous forest cover extending to the elevated ranges supports ongoing regeneration processes. The intact sequence of ridges and valleys are also expressive of underlying formative origins, natural erosion and hydrological processes as well as supporting ecological linkages from the coast to the hinterland. Despite the presence of modified pasture in the area between Darkie Stream and Fantail Bay, it is part of a highly legible and structured landform sequence which combines an interplay of indigenous forest and pasture and associated experiential attributes. The narrow shoreline of the character area is exposed to the relatively open waters of the Hauraki Gulf and features rocky shoals and stony beaches expressive of tidal interaction and exposure. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The extensive vegetation cover and the steepness and elevation of the landform convey a strong sense of wilderness and remoteness. Despite the presence of scattered dwellings, roads, tracks, and farming activities, the character area retains a sense of wildness due to very low intensity of development, intact landform and the raw exposed coastal characteristics. Experiential Attributes: The scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform, contiguous sequence of indigenous vegetation as well as the strong relationship with the Hauraki Gulf impart strong experiential and sensory attributes. The limited presence of buildings and development, including the unsealed roads further amplifies the experience of being in a remote coastal location. Context / Setting: These coastal slopes are located between Ohinewai Stream and Fantail Bay and form the northern end of the mountainous interior Moehau Range. There is a strong relationship between the waterways draining these steep slopes and the wider coastal environment. The rural outlook and presence of coastal baches and dwellings are subservient to the backdrop of the wider forest flanked foothills and mountains of the Moehau Range, imparting a strong sense of remoteness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and the exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions, with upper slopes being lost to cloud in adverse weather. The streams and extensive vegetation display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Where the character area is adjacent to the coastline, there is a legible interplay between the exposed landform and dynamic outer waters of the Gulf, despite the presence of the gravel road.

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Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the few number of dwellings and structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road will have minimal effect on night-time values. Summary and Key Attributes Predominantly bush-clad coastal slopes descend sharply from a prominent elevated ridgeline, expressive of underlying formative origins, natural erosion and hydrological processes. They connect directly to the northern end of the rugged Moehau Range, the mountainous, forested backdrop imparting ecological values, transient attributes and a strong sense of remoteness.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The areas of modified pasture on the lower slopes are noticeable and reduce the level of naturalness however the landform sequence with a balance of grassed ridges and forested gullies currently remains highly legible.

2. A relatively intact forest sequence from extensive indigenous forest of national significance to pasture with pockets of coastal and semi coastal forest such as the Darkie Stream Bush site, and pohutukawa lining the rocky shore.

3. Despite the coastal baches and dwellings nearby, the character area currently retains a strong sense of remoteness due to the limited density of built form and infrastructure and the dominant influence of the extensive forested Moehau Range.

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Coastline South of Fantail Bay

Outstanding

Landforms: This coherent landform encloses the Fantail Creek catchment and comprises an intact gully descending from a prominent elevated ridgeline over 700m asl that connects the rugged Moehau Range to the rocky shoreline. The coastline is dynamic with ridgelines meeting rocky shoals, outcrops and a stony beach, which are highly expressive of the underlying geology. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The valley is overlaid in extensive native coastal forest which reinforces the underlying topography and provides a sequence of vegetation types from mountain to sea. Windswept coastal scrub cling to exposed faces while mature podocarps occupy the valley floor. Most of the character area is part of the large Moehau Forest block which is considered to be of national significance. Where the character area descends to the coast, the vegetation gives way to broadleaved pohutukawa forest and pohutukawa trees flank the rocky shore. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The creek catchment has a legible, dynamic relationship with the Hauraki Gulf. The steep bush clad valley slopes providing a strong visual relationship between the two, highly expressive of hydrological

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and coastal processes. The contrast between the flat profile of the sea and the sudden rise in elevation of the enclosing ridges amplify the prominence and relief of the landform. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The landform and vegetation cover are largely unmodified, imparting a high degree of naturalness. Modifications to the character area are minimal and largely focused on the lower slopes and coastal margins. Development includes very small patches of pasture, a DOC walking track, the Port Jackson Road and the Fantail Bay Campsite. However, while these modifications are noticeable, they are focused around the coastal margins and lowers slopes and remain peripheral to the dominant natural elements, patterns and processes of the wider landscape. Habitat Value: The intact vegetation within the character area connects to the wider forests of the Moehau Range and provides an ecological sequence from the upper hill slopes down through the Fantail Bay gully to the coastal marine environment. This provides for a wide range of habitat opportunities. Moehau's forests have been recognised as one of the top six sites for biodiversity nationally. Natural Processes: Despite the presence of pasture, built structures and the road, these are minimal intrusions and natural patterns and processes remain very high. The indigenous forest cover is almost contiguous and extends to the elevated ranges beyond. It supports ongoing regeneration processes while the intact valley landform and coherent catchment system is also expressive of natural erosion and hydrological processes as well as supporting ecological linkages from the coast to the hinterland. The narrow shoreline of the character area is exposed to the relatively open waters of the Hauraki Gulf and features rocky shoals and stony beaches expressive of tidal interaction and coastal exposure. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The very limited modification across this character area, together with the extensive vegetation cover and the steepness and elevation of the landform convey a strong sense of wilderness and remoteness. The presence of scattered dwellings, road and tracks, and farming activities are noticeable but development is very localised and of low intensity. Experiential Attributes: The intact, visually coherent landform, contiguous sequence of indigenous vegetation as well as the strong relationship with the Hauraki Gulf impart strong experiential and sensory attributes. The DOC campsite and tramping track at Fantail Bay enables access through pohutukawa forest to panoramic coastal views from the elevated bushline. The limited presence of buildings and development, including the unsealed roads further amplifies the experience of being in a remote coastal location. Context / Setting: The character area encloses a coherent bush clad gully landform connecting the northern end of the Moehau Range with the coast near the remote tip of Coromandel Peninsula. The Fantail Creek catchment displays a strong relationship to the sea.

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Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated profile of the upper slopes and exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions, with upper slopes being lost to cloud in adverse weather. The creeks and extensive vegetation display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Where the character area is adjacent to the coastline, there is a legible interplay between the exposed landform and dynamic outer waters of the Gulf, despite the presence of the campsite and gravel road. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the few structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road will have minimal effect on night-time values.

35

Goat Bay

High

Landforms: This character area is part of a relatively intact, coherent coastal landform sequence encompassing the low-mid slopes of the Pouretu Stream catchment above Goat Bay. The character area boundaries generally extend up to the first dominant ridge, except where large tracts of pasture begin to shift the dominant character towards a rural, working outlook. The character area comprises steep, incised spurs and gullies and a dynamic coastline characterised by headlands, escarpments, rocky shoals, outcrops and the stony beach of Goat Bay. These rugged features are highly expressive of the underlying geology and backed by the broad ridgelines and valleys of the coastal foothills which connect to the wider Moehau Range. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: This large character area ties together the tracts of regenerating and remnant vegetation predominantly occupying the gullies, but giving way to pastoral land cover on the ridges. The pattern is highly reflective of the underlying topography and the pastoral tracts are peripheral to the indigenous vegetation patterns. Most of the central forested gully that extends up to higher ranges is part of the large, extremely diverse Moehau Ecological Area and considered to be of national significance. The other fragmented coastal and lowland forest and scrubland areas provide linkages to this block. Pohutukawa scatter the coastal edge, valley floor and steep coastal slopes adding to a strong sense of naturalness. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The complex coastal edge and steep relief of the landform engage strongly with the ebb and flow of the ocean. The flat waters of Goat Bay and the eastern Hauraki Gulf amplify the sudden rise in landform. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: While farm tracks and pasture are features of this part of the coast, the absence of dwellings or other structures means the farming activity retains a very low intensity of development and together with the narrow, unsealed Port Jackson Road, appears subservient to the scale and largely intact nature of the landform and indigenous vegetation patterns.

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Habitat Value: The intact vegetation within the character area connects to the wider, highly diverse forests of the Moehau Range and provides an ecological sequence from the upper hill slopes down through the stream gullies to the coastal marine environment. This provides for a wide range of habitat opportunities. Natural Processes: Despite the presence of pasture, farm tracks and the road, natural processes remain clearly evident in the legible landform, native vegetation patterns and their relationship with the wider landscape/ seascape. The tracts of indigenous forest provide stepping stones for wider ecological linkages and the coherent catchment system is also expressive of natural erosion and hydrological processes. The dynamic shoreline of the character area is exposed to the relatively open waters of the Hauraki Gulf and features rocky platforms and outcrops that are highly expressive of tidal interaction and coastal exposure. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The presence of pasture and farming activities limits the perception of naturalness however given the remote location, intactness of landform, the expressive nature of the vegetation and the strong sense of exposure to the elements, there is a sense of isolation and wildness. Experiential Attributes: The scale and elevation of the relatively intact, visually coherent landform and the direct relationship with the Hauraki Gulf impart strong experiential and sensory attributes. The low level of modification, including the unsealed road further amplifies the experience of being in a remote coastal location. Context / Setting: The character area comprises the rugged coastline and a sequence of gullies and spurs across the low to mid slopes of the Pouretu Stream catchment, draining the Moehau Range. The open waters of the Hauraki Gulf provide a dramatic setting for the steep westerly orientated slopes that rise abruptly from the sea. Despite the presence of pasture and farming activities, this character area is characterised by this strong connection with the sea and visual coherence of the prominent ridges enclosing the Pouretu Stream from Goat Bay to Moehau. The landform is supported by the forested gullies that link ecological networks across the wider landscape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and the exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions with upper slopes being lost to cloud in adverse weather. The streams and stream gully vegetation display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the lack of structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road will have minimal effect on night-time values.

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Summary and Key Attributes This relatively intact, coherent coastal landform sequence comprises steep, incised spurs and gullies and a dynamic coastline highly expressive of the underlying geology. Tracts of regenerating and remnant vegetation predominantly occupy the gullies, giving way to pastoral land cover on the ridges. The character area boundaries generally extend up to the first dominant ridge, except where there are open areas of pasture that also contain modifications such as prominent road cuts, resulting in a clear diminution in natural character. These areas are excluded. In contrast, where pastoral valleys are enclosed by indigenous forest and part of an intact hydrological catchment, these are included as the complex coastal edge and steep relief of the landform engage strongly with the sea.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The bush is fragmented by pasture but connects to the vast and diverse Moehau Ecological Area, of international significance.

2. The hydrological system and forested gullies clearly reinforce the underlying landform and provides an ecological sequence from the upper hill slopes to the coastal marine environment with a wide range of habitat opportunities.

3. The relatively intact visual coherence of the prominent ridges enclosing the Pouretu Stream from Goat Bay to Moehau. Apart from the unsealed road and pastoral modifications, there is very low intensity of development.

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Kaiiti Point (Port Jackson)

High

Landforms: This character area incorporates Kaiiti Point, the promontory that marks the southern arm of the bay at Port Jackson. It is highly expressive of the underlying geological processes and features a complex, rugged, intact coastline of exposed westerly slopes and headlands which meet steep sea cliffs and bluffs, outcrops and rocky shoals. The steep slopes rise to a single ridgeline some 100m asl. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation cover is predominantly pasture. Coastal flaxland is present on the rocky coastline with fragments of open scrubland and isolated trees including scattered, stunted pohutukawa. These pockets are confined to the coastal margins, cliffs and gullies, and are highly expressive of their exposed location. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: This headland is part of the distinctive Port Jackson embayment characterised by its dramatic engagement with the Hauraki Gulf, a result of its exposed location at the northern tip of Coromandel Peninsula and the abrupt contrast between the sea and sudden rise in landform.

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Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Despite the dominance of open pasture and farming land use, naturalness is retained through the legibility of landform and absence of dwellings and structures. Habitat Value: Scattered mature pohutukawa are evident on the lower slopes, gullies and immediate coastal edge while indigenous scrubland covers some steep escarpments. However with the significant vegetation clearance of the area, ecological values are minimal aside from the habitat provided by the immediate rocky shoreline. Natural Processes: Natural attributes, patterns and processes are clearly evident in the intact landform and its very strong relationship to the Hauraki Gulf. The hydrological patterning and processes across the coastal slopes and erosional forces of the sea are highly legible. The expressive, exposed geomorphological coastal landforms, including Kaiiti Point have a very high level of naturalness however with the reduced habitat and vegetation cover, the overall naturalness of the mid to upper slopes is noticeably lower than the lower slopes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: While the land cover is predominantly pastoral, the absence of structures, remote location and isolation from settlements or other significant areas of development, rugged, raw and transient attributes, exposed aspect and direct engagement with the open sea, all provide a very strong sense of wilderness. Experiential Attributes: The abrupt relief of the landform and high level of coastal exposure impart a high degree of naturalness. The combination of hydrological processes and erosional coastal forces create a sequence of steep craggy rock formations that convey strong sensory and experiential attributes characteristic of a wild coastal environment. These attributes reduce further up the slopes, partly due to distance from the dynamic coastal edge but also due to the dominance of open pasture. Context / Setting: Kaiiti Point marks the southern entrance to Port Jackson and forms a prominent headland at the northern tip of Coromandel Peninsula. The character area is orientated to the open waters of the Hauraki Gulf enhancing the strong sense of isolation. The steep slopes rise to a single ridgeline which can be traced all the way steadily up to Moehau, the high point of the Moehau Range. The wider landscape is also predominantly pastoral with tracts of regenerating vegetation dominating the gullies and minimal dwellings and structures adding to the sense of wilderness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated headland landform directly engages with the dynamic ebb and flow of the Hauraki Gulf. The exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions, variations of day / year, tide and wildlife. The streams display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and

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different weather patterns. Dynamic attributes on the outer, exposed coast and rocky point are particularly evident with the level of interplay changing within the more protected embayment. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the lack of structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road will have minimal effect on night-time values. Summary and Key Attributes Intact, rugged, exposed westerly slopes and headlands meet steep sea cliffs and bluffs, outcrops and rocky shoals that are highly expressive of the underlying geological processes. The combination of hydrological processes and erosional forces of the sea convey highly legible natural coastal processes. Ecological values are limited to the flaxland, scrubland and occasional mature pohutukawa on the coastal edge and lower slopes.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The relatively intact, steep pastoral landforms are reinforced by hydrological patterns but sensitive to the introduction of more noticeable farming activities such as built form and tracking.

2. Experiential and transient attributes related to the exposed aspect, lack of modification, dynamic evident natural processes and wildness/remoteness characteristics are high but less apparent on the upper slopes where the overall naturalness is lower.

3. The indigenous vegetation which is particularly focused along the lower slopes and cliff edges have some local ecological value and are highly expressive of their exposed location.

37

Cape Colville to Fletcher Bay

High

Landforms: The character area encompasses a clearly articulated dune system backing the north end Port Jackson beach, marshland at the Muriwai Stream Inlet that directly interacts and shapes the dune formation, Cape Colville, and the coastal escarpment stretching to Fletcher Bay. The headland of Cape Colville and its summit (Wharekaiatua) are prominent coastal features within the wider coastal environment. The steep craggy escarpments of the headland rise sharply from sea level to 59m asl. The shoreline is characterised by large wave cut platforms, boulder fields, and stony beaches. The coastline between Cape Colville and Fletcher Bay is a continuous sequence of steep craggy coastal escarpments, stony bays, and wave cut platforms and headlands. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Pastoral grasses occupy much of the area between the headland and coastal flats while flaxland, small/broadleaved scrubland, and fragmented stands of windswept coastal broadleaved forest are a

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feature of the steep coastal hills and cliffs. The foredunes consist of spinifex-shore bindweed association and muehlenbeckia and are considered to be nationally significant. The patterning and distribution of vegetation combined with the sculpted form of some species is highly expressive of coastal processes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The exposed landform has an integral relationship with the sea. The location at the northern point of the Coromandel Peninsula and the outer Hauraki Gulf imparts a strong degree of naturalness. The shoreline is characterised by the dune system of Port Jackson bay and the large wave cut platforms, boulder fields, and stony beaches which form the interface and dynamic interplay between the escarpment and open sea. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Modification within this area is largely associated with vegetation cover. The series of ridges and gullies that connect the headland to the inland coastal foothills are dominated by pasture. There are no apparent buildings however farming activities are noticeable in places where there is fencing, tracking and access cuts, pugging and associated erosion along the gully slopes. The unsealed Fletcher Bay Road and the Muriwai walking track also pass through this area however apart from the modification of the road itself the overall escarpment remains intact and is covered by indigenous vegetation. Habitat Value: The sequence of landforms including valleys, ridgelines, coastal slopes, an intact dune system, the Muriwai stream and the rocky shoreline of the coastal marine environment provide diverse habitat opportunities. The dunelands are considered nationally under-represented habitat. New Zealand dotterel nest here and are classified as a nationally threatened species. Natural Processes: The landform profile and patterning of escarpments, shoreline, and summit interact directly with the sea, the extensive exposed rock reveals the underlying geology and is expressive of the landscapes formative processes as well as wind exposure and coastal processes. The inner ridges and slopes, while part of the same landform sequence extending out to Cape Colville, have a reduced connection with the sea and are less influenced by active coastal processes. However the dunes and sandy beach are evidence of the dynamic nature of the coastal environment. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: While the land use is predominantly pastoral, the character area conveys a strong sense of wilderness due to the highly legible coastal landforms, very clear expression of natural processes, the isolation of the area and atmospheric conditions. Experiential Attributes: The dramatic relief of the landform and legible coastal exposure impart a high degree of naturalness. The exposed rock and erosional coastal forces convey strong sensory and experiential attributes characteristic of a wild coastal environment. These attributes reduce across the inner ridges and slopes

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due to the reduced connection with the sea and the dominance of open pasture. The coastal road and the Muriwai walking track enable scenic views across to Great Barrier and the Hauraki Gulf. Context / Setting: Wharekaiatua marks the northern arm sheltering Port Jackson from the Colville Channel, and together with the shoreline between Cape Colville and Fletcher Bay makes up the north coast of the Coromandel Peninsula. The HNC area is predominantly outward facing towards the outer Hauraki Gulf and Great Barrier Island, enhancing the strong sense of isolation. The small areas of development associated with Port Jackson and the Fletcher Bay campsite provide an indication of civilisation beyond the character area, however they remain peripheral to the dominance of the dynamic coastal environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The very steep, rocky escarpments and headland and their exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to transient atmospheric conditions and dynamic coastal processes such as wave action and erosion. The Muriwai Stream, Jackson Bay Beach and intact dunes including birdlife and other fauna, display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons, time of day and changing weather patterns. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the lack of structures within the character area. Proximity to Port Jackson Road and settlement will have minimal effect on night-time values. Summary and Key Attributes The character area encompasses a clearly articulated dune system, marshland, the prominent headland of Cape Colville, and the sequence of coastal escarpments and wave cut platforms stretching to Fletcher Bay. The landforms are expressive of the landscape’s formative processes as well as wind exposure and coastal processes. While indigenous vegetation cover the coastal escarpment and summit, the slopes that connect the headland to the inland coastal foothills are dominated by pasture and are less influenced by active coastal processes.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The raw intact nature of the headland and upper escarpments are sensitive to further encroachment or development of the pastoral cover and noticeable farming activities such as buildings and tracks on the inland slopes.

2. The foredunes and inlet margins are nationally ecologically significant and incorporate under-represented habitat with nationally threatened New Zealand dotterel nesting here. They represent high ephemeral qualities and are evidence of the dynamic nature of the coastal environment but sensitive to the pasture and farming activities that merge with the edge of the inlet and rear of the dunes.

3. The low level of modification including the lack of built form heightens the night time values, legibility of the coherent landforms and habitat value of the character area.

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The Sugar Loaf and Poley Bay; Square Top Island and the Pinnacles

High

Landforms: This highly indented eastern orientated coastline comprises a dramatic sequence of rugged headlands, islands, reefs, craggy sea cliffs and shoals. These are backed by the steep spurs and gullies and numerous streams of coastal foothills. Key features include Square Top Island, a small, rocky and steeply mounded island approximately 900m offshore, and the Sugar Loaf headland, including the Sugar Loaf Rocks and The Pinnacles. The promontory rises dramatically from the sea up to the steep peaks of the Rocks (123m asl) and The Pinnacles, jutting out like balled fists from the main headland which climbs to 220m asl. The landform is intact, imparting a strong sense of naturalness. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Windswept and pioneering indigenous vegetation species cling to the coastal cliffs reflecting coastal exposure. Square Top Island is overlaid in broadleaved coastal forest and scrub while the mainland hills from Sugar Loaf to Poley Bay also feature regenerating coastal vegetation including broadleaved and small leaved scrub and pohutukawa. The forest tracts dominate the valleys and steep seaward slopes, giving way to pasture on ridges and moderate backslopes. South of Poley Bay, the hills are flanked in intact coastal forest, ecologically contiguous with the diverse, nationally significant Moehau Ecological Area. The overall pattern is highly reflective of the underlying topography and the pastoral tracts are peripheral to the indigenous vegetation patterns. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The exposed landforms have a direct and highly legible relationship with the sea, marking the transition between the northern point of the Coromandel Peninsula and the east coast. Square Top Island, The Pinnacles, Sugar Loaf Rocks and the steep coastal escarpments of the mainland provide dramatic contrast to the expanse of the ocean and impart a strong degree of naturalness. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There is a very low level of modification within this character area. While there are tracts of pastoral land cover, power lines, and walking and mountain biking tracks, the scale of these interventions is small and they appear subservient to the dramatic and rugged sequence of intact coastal landforms and bush fragments. Habitat Value: The coastal foothills and cliffs found in this HNC area are likely to be habitat for a wide range of coastal fauna and flora species. The headland fragments are considered of regional significance and also provide links to neighbouring SNA’s including the southern hill slopes that are part of the wider, highly diverse forests of the Moehau Range. Together they provide an ecological sequence from the marine environment up the escarpments and stream gullies to the upper hill slopes and ridges, providing for a wide range of habitat opportunities. Natural Processes: The character area is characterised by its immediate connection with the sea and evident natural coastal processes around the islands, outcrops and mainland sea cliffs. The combination of sheer

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bluffs, craggy rock formations, rocky shoals and narrow stony beaches provide very strong level of interaction and expression of the coastal processes eroding the underlying landform. The exposed soils and red rock faces are indicative of the area’s volcanic origins. This level of exposure and dynamic processes is further amplified by the low level of modification and the tracts of indigenous coastal forest and scrub which serve as ecological stepping stones to other areas. The areas of pasture are noticeable rural modifications but remain peripheral to the evident coastal processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: This sequence of remote, exposed, elevated and intact landforms retains very high level of perceived naturalness and wilderness. They comprise well-defined, highly weathered natural landforms, windswept land cover and very limited modification. The lack of road access and highly expressive dynamic, ongoing coastal processes and atmospheric conditions heighten the remoteness and wild character of the islands, cliffs and elevated bush clad slopes. Experiential Attributes: The character area has a high level of experiential attributes due to its rugged and wild character. Visitors can walk or bike part of an old bridle path formed by early pioneers between Fletchers Bay and Stony Bay and appreciate the impressive coastal views. The islands, outcrops and headlands interact directly with the sea and present strong sensory qualities associated with the raw, intact nature of the landforms and the sense of isolation of the coastline. The distribution of vegetation combined with the windswept form of some species is also highly expressive of coastal processes. Context / Setting: The character area extends from Square Top Island, the northernmost island off Coromandel Peninsula, south to the ridge above Shag Bay. Sugar Loaf headland marks the transition between the mainland’s north and east coastlines. The eastward facing, elevated (up to some 500m asl) coastal foothills descend rapidly to the sea where they form a continuous sequence of craggy cliffs and outcrops. Orientated to the Pacific Ocean, they are highly exposed and impart a strong sense of isolation. The southern hills are connected to the wider forest flanked Moehau Range further enhancing the naturalness of the landscape. The lower northern hills below Sugar Loaf connect with the wider pattern of pastoral hill country behind Fletcher Bay. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated, volcanic landform and exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions and dynamic coastal processes. The highly weathered rocky shoals and outcrops convey continuous and ongoing change with the tidal fluctuations and wave action of the open waters. Other ephemeral qualities commonly displayed and which naturally vary during seasons and weather patterns are associated with the numerous streams and changes in vegetation and wildlife. Night-time Values: An outstanding degree of naturalness is derived from no exposure to lights given the lack of dwellings and roads within the character area. This is further emphasised by the character areas outward facing

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aspect resulting is a strong sense of isolation. Summary and Key Attributes These remote, exposed, elevated and intact landforms retain very high level of perceived naturalness and wilderness and form a dramatic, coherent sequence. In pastoral dominated areas where landuse and vegetation type rate low, the well-defined, highly weathered natural landforms, windswept land cover and very limited modification rate highly.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The raw intact nature of the islands, outcrops and headlands and their direct dynamic engagement with the sea present strong experiential and sensory qualities and a sense of isolation.

2. The distribution of vegetation combined with the windswept form of some species is highly expressive of coastal processes and provides an altitudinal sequence from the marine environment to the upper hill slopes, providing for a wide range of habitat opportunities and natural coastal processes.

3. The very low level of modification including the lack of built form and road access heighten the wild, remote character, night time values, legibility of the coherent landforms and habitat value of the character area.

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Shag Bay and Western Stony Bay

Outstanding

Landforms: This character area comprises the eastward facing coastal hill country of Mt Moehau, between Shag Bay and Stony Bay. Descending from a single prominent ridgeline some 500m asl, the landforms comprise a coherent sequence of spurs, gullies and streams that interface with the sea in a highly sculpted coastline of rocky headlands, escarpments, incised rocky coves, bays and shoals. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: This character area is characterised by its intact vegetation cover connecting the sea to the extensive forested inland ranges. The slopes are overlaid in rich, indigenous coastal forest that forms part of the large Moehau Ecological Area. The diverse area incorporate an altitudinal sequence that is highly expressive of the rugged underlying volcanic landform including stream gullies and exposed ridges. The main vegetation communities are pohutukawa coastline forest lining the bluffs and escarpments, coastal forest and scrublands, lowland primary and secondary forest grading into montane forest and scrub with sub-alpine scrub and grasslands. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The steep terrain and legible sequence of spurs and gullies reinforced by indigenous vegetation patterns and transitioning to a complex, convoluted coastline result in dramatic engagement with the sea. The diversity derived from the enclosed and sheltered waters of Shag Bay and Stony Bay and the open expanse of the Pacific Ocean provide a high degree of naturalness.

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Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There is a very low level of modification within this character area. With the exception of walking and mountain biking tracks and a powerline crossing the mid slopes, the character area is largely intact. There is a campsite at Stony Bay, at the end of Stony Bay Road, outside of the character area. These modifications are of a low intensity, absorbed within the dominant natural coastal processes present. An outstanding degree of naturalness remains throughout the area due to the intactness of the landform and vegetation patterns and the dynamic and direct relationship to the ocean. Habitat Value: The intact landform and vegetation cover enable an extensive, contiguous ecological sequence connecting the uppermost ridgelines of the Moehau Range, down through valleys, coastal slopes and escarpments to the rocky shore and Coastal Marine Area, providing for a wide range of habitat opportunities. The Shag-Poley Bay coastline forest is regionally under-represented habitat and the neighbouring Moehau Ecological Area is considered the most ecologically diverse and intact remaining forest type within the Coromandel. Natural Processes: This character area is characterised by its intact landform and vegetation cover and direct connection with the sea, evident in the highly sculpted shoreline. The combination of craggy rock formations, deep, narrow coves, rocky shoals and stony beaches provide a very strong level of interaction and expression of the coastal processes eroding the underlying landform. This level of exposure and dynamic processes is further amplified by the very low level of modification and the intact indigenous coastal forest and scrub which create a contiguous sequence with the extensive Moehau Range. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The intact landform and extensive, contiguous vegetation cover that characterise this character area, impart a very strong sense of naturalness and wilderness. The very limited modification, including the lack of road access together with the highly expressive, evident coastal processes and changeable atmospheric conditions heighten awareness of the area’s remoteness and wild character. Experiential Attributes: The character area imparts a high level of experiential attributes due to the scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform, the sequence of vegetation and the direct and dynamic relationship with the sea – from the more sheltered waters of the bays to the open ocean. Visitors can walk or mountain bike across these slopes on part of an old bridle path formed by early pioneers, and appreciate its rugged and wild character. Impressive coastal views can be had from the upper slopes, north to Great Barrier Island, and east to Cuvier (Repanga) Island. Context / Setting: The character area extends between Shag Bay and Stony Bay with a coherent sequence of east and southeast orientated spurs and gullies. Stony Bay is a deep inlet flanked by the bush clad hills of Mt Moehau.

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These elevated (up to some 500m asl) coastal foothills enable impressive views though highly exposed and expressive of their naturalness and isolation. Where slopes face the structures and pasture of Stony Bay this experience is lessened but the backdrop of, and connection to the wider Moehau Range remains a dominant feature. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: These steep, elevated, exposed slopes make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions and dynamic coastal processes. The sculpted, convoluted shoreline is highly expressive of continuous and ongoing change with the tidal fluctuations and dynamic wave action of the open waters. The many streams draining the steep gullies display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Similar transient attributes are found associated with changes in vegetation and wildlife. Night-time Values: An outstanding degree of naturalness can be found throughout most of the area due to the limited exposure to lights as a result of the lack of dwellings and roads. The few structures and elements associated with Stony Bay campground adjacent to the southern boundary of the character area, start to intrude on this state however impacts remain low level and localised.

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Stony Bay

High

Landforms: These moderately steep coastal foothills behind Stony Bay comprise the part of the catchments for several streams and tributaries draining into Stony Bay from Moehau. The hill country lies on the edge of the northern Moehau Range and includes ridges, steep spurs and gullies, and valley floors. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: This character area is overlaid in regenerating to mature podocarp forest identified as part of the wider Moehau Ecological Area and highly expressive of the underlying landform and volcanic formative processes. While the adjacent Stony Bay coastal flats are predominantly in pasture which begins to reduce the pattern of contiguous cover from the coast to the ranges, the rich, indigenous forest within the character area remains largely intact. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: This character area forms the backdrop to Stony Bay. While not directly on the coast, the sudden relief of these coastal hills contrasts with, frames and encloses the deep inlet. A number of streams and waterways drain these slopes, connecting the elevated ridgelines of Moehau with the sea. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: With the exception of two small grass clearings and a small section of track, the character area is devoid of modification imparting a strong sense of naturalness. While outside the boundaries, the presence of the campsite and farmland at Stony Bay, at the end of Stony Bay Road, does begin to

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impact on this character area. However the pasture, dwellings and road associated with the campsite are of a low intensity, and impacts quickly reduce beyond the shared boundary. Habitat Value: The character area provides a range of habitat opportunities due to the low level of modification, extensive forest cover and intact and varied landform including valleys, ridges and streams. The beach at Stony Bay provides gravel/boulder habitat for NZ dotterel, classified in the NZ Threat Classification Lists as nationally vulnerable. The beach is outside this character area but connected via the vegetated stream corridors. Natural Processes: The interplay of the large tract of indigenous forest cover with regenerating shrublands is reflective of the underlying geological formative processes and reinforces stream entrenchment and ongoing regeneration processes. The pastoral areas included within the HNC boundaries are part of this intact backdrop of ridges and valleys which perceptually frame the bay as well as tie together stream habitat. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: While the character area is isolated from sizeable settlements, the adjacent pastoral land and Department of Conservation campsite begin to affect the perceived remoteness of the HNC area. Nevertheless, the extensive vegetation cover and the intact, moderately elevated hillslopes and their relationship with both the Moehau Range and the bay, imbue a sense of wilderness. Experiential Attributes: The connection between these coastal foothills and the sea is appreciable to those using the walking/biking tracks, or camping nearby. The clearly articulated ridge and valley system, reinforced by vegetation patterns contrasts with and frames the flat expanse of the bay and imparts a sense of naturalness. Context / Setting: The character area backdrops the deep inlet of Stony Bay and the campground at the end of Stony Bay Road. The coherent sequence of ridges and valleys drain the bush clad hills of Mt Moehau. Despite the rural, modified outlook to the Stony Bay campground, a strong sense of isolation remains due to the backdrop of the Moehau Range, intactness of landform and indigenous vegetation cover, as well as distance from settlements. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform make the character area receptive to atmospheric conditions. The streams display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. While outside the character area, the beach at Stony Bay is connected via the vegetated stream corridors and provides seasonal habitat for nesting NZ dotterel. Night-time Values: Exposure to lights is limited, given the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area.

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Proximity and orientation towards the Stony Bay campground does start to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment at night.

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Eastern Stony Bay and Western Port Charles

Outstanding

Landforms: This large headland landform between Stony Bay and Port Charles comprises the coastal hill country of the northern Moehau Range. Descending from a single prominent ridgeline some 400m asl, the spurs and stream gullies interface with the sea in a highly sculpted coastline featuring rocky bluffs, points, outcrops and shoals. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The character area is overlaid with rich, indigenous vegetation cover connecting the sea to the extensive forested inland ranges. The slopes form part of the large Moehau Ecological Area, incorporating a contiguous altitudinal sequence of vegetation communities. The forest cover is highly expressive of the underlying landform, including hydrological and volcanic formative processes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The sudden vertical relief and legible sequence of spurs and gullies reinforced by indigenous vegetation patterns and transitioning to a complex, convoluted coastline result in dramatic engagement with the open sea and the more sheltered waters of Sandy Bay and Port Charles. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: These forested coastal hills are predominantly in protected DOC land and largely intact. There are no apparent buildings, however the unsealed Stony Bay Road, a power line and the Stony Bay Fishing Track pass through this area. These modifications and the proximity to pasture, the Stony Bay campground and the settlement at Sandy Bay, are subservient to the natural patterns and processes demonstrated in this character area and in the extensive inland ranges it is tied to. Habitat Value: The intact landform and vegetation cover enable an extensive, contiguous ecological sequence connecting the uppermost ridgelines of the Moehau Range, down through valleys, coastal slopes and escarpments to the rocky shore and Coastal Marine Area, providing for a wide range of habitat opportunities. The Moehau Ecological Area is considered the most ecologically diverse and intact remaining forest type within the Coromandel. Natural Processes: This character area is characterised by the evident interplay of tidal interaction and coastal exposure with its coastline of craggy points and outcrops, steep bluffs, and stony beaches. The intact, exposed landform and its relationship to the ocean is further amplified by the low level of modification and the diverse tract of indigenous coastal forest cover which creates a contiguous ecological sequence from the sea up to the extensive Moehau Range.

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Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The contiguous swathe of coastal scrubland and podocarp forest on mid to upper slopes, terminates with jagged rocky outcrops, accentuating the landscapes pronounced relief and imparting a strong sense of wildness. Despite the presence of the road and other limited modification, the highly expressive landforms, evident coastal processes and changeable atmospheric conditions heighten awareness of the area’s remoteness and wild character. Experiential Attributes: The character area imparts a high level of experiential attributes due to the scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform, the sequence of vegetation, and evident coastal erosion which reinforce the visual coherence of the landscape and its dynamic relationship with the sea. Travellers can access these slopes via the unsealed road, and appreciate its isolation and wild character. Context / Setting: The character area is an integral part of a broader sequence of ridges and valleys covered by indigenous vegetation that extends up to the wider Moehau Range. The headland landform has a strong connection with the expanse of the Pacific Ocean as well as the more sheltered waters of Stony Bay and the large harbour of Port Charles. Stony Bay Road passes through the character area, connecting the settlements at Sandy Bay and Port Charles to the terminus at Stony Bay campground. These areas of development are apparent and start to affect the cohesion of the character area’s margins. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: These steep, elevated, exposed slopes make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions and dynamic coastal processes. The sculpted bluffs and shoals along the shoreline are highly expressive of continuous and ongoing change with the tidal fluctuations and dynamic wave action of the open waters. The many streams draining the steep gullies display ephemeral qualities which vary during seasons and weather patterns. Similar transient attributes are found associated with changes in vegetation and wildlife. Night-time Values: Exposure to lights is limited given the absence of dwellings within the character area. However the presence of the road and proximity and orientation towards Sandy Bay and Port Charles does start to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment at night.

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Port Charles

High

Landforms: The moderately elevated coastal foothills of this HNC area descend from a prominent ridgeline that branches off the main spine of the much greater, complex Moehau Range. Comprising an intact volcanic sequence of ridges, spurs and gullies, the pattern of the terrain is reinforced by the vegetation cover. The character area encompasses Oneura Creek and a tributary of Tangiaro Stream that drain into the tidal harbour of Port Charles and a tributary of Okahutahi Stream, draining into Sandy Bay.

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Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The regenerating indigenous pioneer species that flank the hills behind Port Charles are highly expressive of the underlying landform. Part of the Port Charles and Sandy Bay Forest blocks, the vegetation comprises coastal to lowland forest of primary logged lowland rata-kauri forest, grading into secondary coastal broadleaved kanuka canopy forest, with pohutukawa canopy remnants along the coastal fringe. The forest extends and buffers the larger Moehau Forest and is considered to represent one of the best examples of contiguous coastal - lowland - submontane forest sequences in the Waikato Region. The northwest and eastern boundaries of the character area are adjacent to tracts of pasture which dominate the Port Charles and Sandy Bay coastal flats and lower slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The flat expanse of the waters and tidal seascape of Port Charles contrast with the landform, amplifying their undulating terrain and elevation. Inner Port Charles is heavily tidal which, despite adjacent farming modifications conveys a strong sense of the relationship between the creeks draining from this HNC area and the coastal environment. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The character area is devoid of dwellings and structures and retains a strong sense of naturalness. Development is focused around the shoreline and lower slopes outside the HNC area, primarily the settlements and farming activities at Sandy Bay and Port Charles. These nearby modifications and land uses do not disrupt the scale and integrity of the landform or continuous coverage of vegetation that extends into the inland ranges. Habitat Value: While habitat value on either side of the character area is modified by pasture, the vertical sequence of regenerating forest cover connecting the coastal margins to the uppermost ridgelines of the Moehau Range provides a wide altitudinal range of valuable habitat opportunities. There is also diversity in habitat type due to the variety in aspect and the waterways that drain the hills. Natural Processes: The coastal slopes are largely covered by indigenous coastal forest and are clearly dominated by natural processes. These are evident in the ecological and regenerative processes occurring as part of the diversity of vegetation cover. Hydrological systems and stream entrenchment are also evident in the tributaries draining the slopes and reinforced by vegetation types and cover. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The proximity of the character area to noticeable human development and activity at Port Charles, Sandy Bay and on Port Charles Road affects the perceived remoteness of the HNC area. However the setting provided by the scale and relief of the landforms, the continuity of vegetation cover and patterns including the connection with the extensive bush-covered hinterland, and the orientation towards the sea means a sense of wildness is retained.

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Experiential Attributes: The intact landform flanked by extensive indigenous forest on the Moehau Ranges impart a high degree of naturalness and form a natural backdrop to the settlements at Sandy Bay and Port Charles. While the presence of modification nearby reduces the level of naturalness, the road and residential development provides opportunities for scenic coastal views and appreciation of the indigenous forest in the adjacent gullies. The tidal variations of the inner harbour also impart a range of different sensory and experiential attributes. Context / Setting: This series of northern orientated, elevated spurs and gullies represent part of the backdrop to the settlements of Sandy Bay and Port Charles and encompass several creeks that drain into Sandy Bay and Port Charles. They form the lower slopes of a prominent ridgeline that ties coherently into the elevated hinterland of the Moehau Range and the high point of Moehau, 892m asl. Together with the extensive forest cover of these elevated ranges, the bush clad slopes within the character area provide a strong contrast to the pastoral valleys on either side. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The upper slopes within this character area are highly receptive to changing atmospheric conditions, being lost to low cloud in adverse weather. The lower slopes directly above Port Charles and Sandy Bay have a stronger connection with the tidal fluctuations and rhythms of the sea. The regenerating and mature vegetation cover, birdlife and other fauna, and numerous streams all display transient qualities with variations in season and weather patterns. Night-time Values: There is limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures within the boundaries of the HNC area however its proximity to Port Charles, Sandy Bay and the road does start to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment.

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Carey Bay to North of Rauporoa Bay; Motukokopu Island

High

Landforms: This linear character area comprises the coastal margins that wrap around the Port Charles headland. The features consist of an extensive sequence of very steep, intact and exposed escarpments and sea cliffs, craggy promontories, outcrops, wave cut platforms, stony bays and islands. The escarpments range in height up to 239m asl but include numerous sections of near vertical cliffs over 100m asl. The sheer scale, patterning and rugged profile of the rocky landforms with this coastal environment are highly expressive of both formative and more active coastal processes. Motukokopu Island is a volcanic island, highly weathered and the degree of exposure is reinforced by low growing vegetation which clings to rocky faces. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Windswept and pioneering vegetation species cling to coastal cliffs, the patterning and distribution

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reinforces hydrological patterns, aspect and exposure to the sea and contributes to a highly expressive coastal environment. The main indigenous vegetation in the area consists of primary pohutukawa and secondary coastal broadleaved forest. Pohutukawa forest is under-represented in the region. While the coastal vegetation is modified and fragmented, it is of regional significance and as part of a mosaic of shoreline and coastal habitats it contributes to some of the most significant ecosystems remaining within the entire Coromandel Peninsula coastal zone. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The exposed coastline has an integral relationship with the sea. The location on the northeast coast, exposed to the open ocean imparts a strong degree of naturalness. The shoreline is characterised by dramatic cliffs and large wave cut platforms which form the interface and dynamic interplay between the escarpment and open sea. The abrupt rise in elevation from the sea provides an impressive contrast to the flat expanse of the Ocean. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: While there is pastoral land cover in places, the overall focus of this HNC area is on the coastal cliffs so that the small areas of farming modifications on the fringes are subservient to the remoteness, legibility of the landforms and formative processes and interactions with the Pacific Ocean. The upper, pastoral slopes backing on to the north end of the character area have been excluded from the HNC area due to their modified attributes including prominent access cuts. A noticeable farming character dominates these hills in contrast with the steeper coastal escarpments of the character area that are characterised by patches of indigenous shrubland and an increased level of interaction with the sea and associated natural processes. Habitat Value: The landform, including exposed coastal slopes and the rock lined Coastal Marine Area provide habitat opportunities which are enhanced by their isolation and limited modification. The shingle beaches provide habitat for a range of shorebirds including the nationally threatened NZ dotterel. Brown teal have been re-introduced into this locality in recent years; they are a nationally threatened species and utilise the foreshore. While the vegetation is fragmented, it buffers and links to other fragments, serving as ecological stepping stones to larger areas of highly significant coastal forest. Natural Processes: The steep volcanic coastline is highly expressive of coastal exposure and tidal interaction. These natural processes are evident in the sheer cliffs, exposed eroding slopes, rocky beaches, outcrops, shoals and islands that make up the landscape within this coastal environment. The forest fragments are reflective of the underlying geological formative processes and support ongoing ecological processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: This sequence of exposed, elevated and intact landforms retains very high level of perceived naturalness and wilderness and remoteness. They comprise well-defined, highly sculpted, dynamic coastal landforms, with windswept land cover and very limited modification. The lack of road access

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and highly expressive coastal processes heighten the raw, wild character of these rocky islands and sheer slopes. Experiential Attributes: The character area imparts a high level of experiential attributes due to the scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform, the sequence of vegetation, exposure and vulnerability to harsh conditions and evident coastal erosion which reinforce the visual coherence of the landscape and its dynamic relationship with the sea. Context / Setting: The character area is part of an extensive sequence of very steep escarpments and sea cliffs that wrap around the Port Charles headland. It extends from Carey Bay, inside the more sheltered harbour to Rauporoa Bay, exposed to the open ocean. Much of the character area connects with adjacent coastal foothills that are flanked in intact indigenous vegetation. The pastoral slopes above Carey Bay and adjacent to the northern end of the character area share some of the legible landform attributes of the character area but overall are noticeably modified by the extensive farming and the back slopes in particular have limited engagement with the sea. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The character area has a high level of experiential attributes due to its rugged and wild character. The islands, outcrops and headlands interact directly with the sea and present strong sensory qualities associated with the raw, intact nature of the landforms and the sense of isolation of the coastline. The distribution of vegetation combined with the windswept form of some species is also highly expressive of coastal processes. Night-time Values: Night time values are very high. The lack of dwellings and roads within the character area and the orientation of the steep slopes towards the sea provides very limited opportunity for exposure to lights. Summary and Key Attributes An extensive, rugged sequence of very steep, intact and exposed escarpments and sea cliffs, craggy promontories, outcrops, wave cut platforms, stony bays and islands characterise this character area. Vegetation along the escarpments is comprised of a mix of indigenous shrubland, flax and pohutukawa interspersed with pasture. The upper, pastoral slopes that back on to the north end of the character area have been excluded due to the prominence of their modifications.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact rocky landforms, their scale, patterning and sculpted form, are highly expressive of both formative and more dynamic coastal processes and impart a high level of experiential attributes.

2. The shingle beaches are an originally rare ecosystem and provide habitat for a range of shorebirds including the nationally threatened NZ dotterel.

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3. The coastal vegetation is of regional significance, forms part of a continuum of shoreline and coastal habitats and the patterning and distribution reinforces hydrological patterns and contributes to a highly expressive coastal environment. Already fragmented, it is sensitive to further modification.

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Rauporoa Bay and Te Anaputa Point

High

Landforms: These steep coastal slopes on comprise the coastal escarpment at the southern end of Rauporoa Bay and the northern face of Te Anaputa Point. The western margins of the escarpment and Te Anaputa Point are characterised by sheer slopes with exposed rock sections characterise. A stony bay forms the shoreline interposed by several rock platforms that project out into the sea. The mid-section of the escarpment is generally shallower in profile. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Patches of indigenous scrub and pastoral grasses cover the steeper sections of the escarpment, while rank pasture covers the mid-section. Windswept pohutukawa punctuate sections of the shoreline and the slopes of Te Anaputa Point, reinforcing the exposure and rawness of the landscape. The character area is situated immediately adjacent to the larger Port Charles-Potiki-Waikawau forest considered to be of international significance. It consists of coastal forest and scrublands with a pohutukawa cliffland community and lowland forest and scrublands. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The expanse of the open ocean amplifies the relief of the headland and escarpment landform and the natural processes occurring along the coastal edge. The relationship between the seascape and landform begins to changes between the gentler slopes of the escarpment above the bay and where it forms the sheer rocky bluff of Te Anaputa Point. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Despite the dominant pasture cover, the slopes behind Rauporoa Bay exhibit high levels of naturalness. While the areas of pasture affect values associated with vegetation type, cover and landuse, the landform is intact and there are no other apparent modifications. Habitat Value: Within the HNC area, the northern orientated coastal slopes, escarpments and the rocky shore of the Coastal Marine Area provide valuable habitat opportunities for indigenous fauna and flora due to the area’s isolation and its connection to extensive coastal forest inland. This larger forest block includes threatened fauna such as kiwi and Waikato endemic Coromandel striped gecko. Natural Processes: The steep landform is intact and highly expressive of its direct interaction with the sea. Natural processes are evident in the varied landform components from the narrow stony bays and rocky shoals

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to the steep slopes with scattered windswept vegetation. Being flanked by extensive mature coastal forest to the south and the open waters of the Pacific Ocean to the north enhances the quality and overall degree of integration of this HNC area. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The exposed aspect of the landform, limited presence of structures and active farming activities, and its relationship with the intact, forested, wider landscape, imbue a strong sense of wildness and remotes. Experiential Attributes: The wind swept vegetation and coastal erosion evident in the rocky shoals and bluffs, reinforce the exposure and rawness of the landscape and convey a strong sense of isolation. Context / Setting: This escarpment above Rauporoa Bay is flanked by a broader more elevated sequence of coastal slopes and ridges extending out from the summit of Puroa and covered in internationally significant coastal forest that is identified as having Outstanding Natural Character. Surrounded by extensive mature coastal forest to the south and the open waters of the Pacific Ocean to the north enhances the quality and overall degree of integration of this HNC area. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and its exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions. Rocky shoals and islands change with the ebb and flow of the ocean imparting a strong sense of naturalness. Night-time Values: The absence of dwellings and structures both within and in proximity to the character area impart a high degree of naturalness at night. Views of the night sky will be clear with absence of light pollution. Summary and Key Attributes The character area comprises the lower coastal escarpment of Rauporoa Bay and the northern face of Te Anaputa Point characterised by a stony bay, rock platforms and sheer slopes with exposed rock sections. Vegetation cover is dominated by pastoral grasses interspersed with indigenous scrub and occasional windswept pohutukawa.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact coastal landforms are highly expressive of their direct interaction with the sea and natural processes are evident in their eroded, weathered elements.

2. Despite the dominant pasture cover within the character area, it is situated immediately adjacent to the larger Port Charles-Potiki-Waikawau forest, considered to be of international significance.

3. The wider natural context, the exposed aspect of the landform, limited presence of structures

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and active farming activities imbue high experiential attributes and a strong sense of wildness and remoteness.

45

Western Rauporoa Bay and Motukauri Point

Outstanding

Landforms: These extensive hill country margins comprise a sequence of catchments along the coastline from Rauporoa Bay, south to Waikawau Bay, descending from the Onekura ridgeline. The landforms are characterised by the heavily incised coastline encompassing several headlands and rocky promontories as well as valleys, broad ridgelines, a sequence of bays and inlets, bluffs, escarpments, islands and shoals, all providing strong engagement with the ocean. The Parakete Stream runs through the northern tip of the site and the Okiore Stream through the south-western part to Te Karaka Bay. Waikawau Bay showcases an intact dune system behind the white sandy beach and the Waikawau River outlet. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation consists of the Port Charles-Potiki-Waikawau forest, a large area of regenerating to mature podocarp forest cover on Mt Onekura, giving way to pioneer coastal scrublands on ridge lines and exposed coastal slopes and pohutukawa cliffland character area. Primary and secondary broadleaved forest with uncommon kauri-hard beech-taraire association are found at Potiki Bay. The site is ranked as being internationally significant and provides buffers and links with several other SNA's. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: These exposed coastal hills and shoreline have an inherent, fundamental relationship with the sea. The location on the east coast, exposed to the open ocean imparts a strong degree of naturalness. The shoreline is characterised by sculpted bluffs and rocky outcrops and large wave cut platforms which form the interface between the elevated hills and the open water. The extensive open seas off western Rauporoa Bay, Potiki Bay, Te Karaka Bay and northern Waikawau Bay contrast with the strong relief of the landform. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Aside from some very small pockets of pastoral grasses, the area is relatively unmodified. There are no apparent buildings, structures or roads, imparting a very strong sense of naturalness. Habitat Value: The extensive vegetation cover and intact landform enable an ecological sequence connecting the upper ridgelines, through valleys coastal slopes and escarpments to the rocky shore and Coastal Marine Area; providing for a range of habitat opportunities. Threatened fauna include kiwi and Waikato endemic Coromandel striped gecko. Natural Processes: This character area is characterised by its intact landform and vegetation cover and direct connection with the sea. The craggy headlands, steep bluffs, and stony beaches are highly expressive of the

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interplay of tidal interaction and coastal processes eroding the underlying landform. The sand formations and patterns at the north end of Waikawau Bay reflect tidal interactions and the natural flood cycles of the Waikawau River. These processes are further amplified by the low level of modification and the intact indigenous coastal forest and scrub which create an extensive, contiguous sequence from Mt Onekura to the sea. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The complex, incised shoreline, patterns of windswept vegetation, exposed, weathered coastal landforms, very low level of modification and engagement with the seascape, all imbue a very strong sense of rawness and wildness to the coastal environment. The lack of vehicle access through the area adds to the sense of remoteness. Experiential Attributes: Wind swept vegetation and dynamic coastal processes including wave and tidal action eroding the sculpted coastline, reinforce the exposure and rawness of the landscape and convey a strong sense of isolation. Context / Setting: This large character area encompasses Onekura (374m asl) and the predominantly easterly slopes that descend from this peak to the sea, from Rauporoa Bay south to Waikawau Bay. The area incorporates a number of different catchments draining into the many bays and inlets along this incised coastline. The slopes are predominantly oriented towards the wider expanse of the Pacific Ocean, enhancing the strong sense of isolation. The higher ranges of Moehau backdrop these coastal hills, creating an extensive area of vegetated forest. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated landform and the exposed aspect make the character area receptive to atmospheric conditions. The tidal rhythm of the open ocean and the interplay with the rocky shoreline provides strong sensory attributes and a counterpoint for the rivers natural flow variations, clarity and flood cycles. Other transient factors include the salt spray at Waikawau Bay, seasonal and ongoing changes associated with the regenerating to mature vegetation cover, and the presence of wading birds which emphasise the landscape’s natural processes. Night-time Values: The absence of roads, dwellings and structures both within, and in proximity to the character area impart a very high degree of naturalness at night. Views of the night sky will be clear with absence of light pollution.

46

Waikawau Bay

High

Landforms: This large sandy bay contains extensive beach and dune systems, with salt marsh and estuarine wetlands at the northern end of Waikawau Bay. The bay is enclosed by intact coastal features at either

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end; a small promontory and rocky shoals at Kawetoto Reef (in the adjacent Outstanding Natural Landscape) and the headland and bluffs at Kamakamakura Point. The dune system is clearly articulated backing the full length of the beach and consisting of several dune sequences from the intact foredune to the abutting pastoral edge. The HNC area also incorporates the toes of two bush clad spurs flanking the Gisborne and Matamataharakeke Streams, across the road from the campsite. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The estuarine environment comprises salt marsh and wetlands of flax with cabbage trees and tangle fern. While the dune system is covered by spinifex and pingao grasses. Coastal scrub including muehlenbeckia vine shelters between dune sequences and along the back edge of the dune system. Mature Pohutukawa mark the southern edge of the beach at Kamakamakura Point. The HNC area also incorporates the toes of two spurs flanking the Gisborne and Matamataharakeke Streams and grading into largely intact coastal and semi native forest remnants of Waikawau Bay Farm Park SNA. The site is largely captured within several nationally significant SNAs. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The Waikawau River emerges from the Moehau foothills some 4km from the mouth. Flowing through farmed valley flats, it forms an estuarine inlet behind the Waikawa Bay dunes before flowing into the sea. The river and estuary impart a strong sense of naturalness due to their intactness, legible context, and evident natural processes. The ebb and flow of the ocean has dynamic interaction with the sands of Waikawau Beach. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: The beach and dunes are backed by pastoral farmland with scattered dwellings and a DOC campground. A consented 10 lot subdivision sits across the eastern valley slopes of Matamataharekeke Stream between the campground and Little Bay. The scale and extent of modification to the inland dune system at the campsite and the vegetation clearance and introduction of residential development above Matamataharekeke Stream impact on the intactness and level of naturalness to the extent that they are excluded from the HNC area. Instead, the character area itself represents largely protected land and apart from Waikawau Beach Road passing through short sections of the character area in places, it is devoid of modification. While the proximity of development within Little Bay starts to affect the perceived naturalness of the western side of Kamakamakura Point, its biophysical characteristics remain wholly intact. Habitat Value: The dune and estuarine landscape contains a rich, sensitive and diverse range of habitat from estuarine and salt marsh environments to the ocean beach and dune system, rocky shore and bluffs and the forest remnants at Kamakamakura Point. Several fauna and flora classified in the NZ Threat Classification Lists as nationally vulnerable and relict are present. Natural Processes: The landform profile and patterning of headlands, bay and estuarine inlet interact directly with the sea, and are highly expressive of the landscape’s formative processes as well as wave action and wind

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exposure. Natural attributes are clearly evident in the interplay of landform and river with dynamic coastal processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: While the land use backing the HNC area is predominantly pastoral, the character area conveys a strong sense of wilderness due to the highly legible coastal landforms and very clear expression of natural processes of the Waikawau River inlet, dunes and headlands, the orientation towards the open ocean, the backdrop of forested ranges, the isolation of the area and exposure to atmospheric conditions. Waikawa Beach Road provides access to the area however the presence of the road does not noticeably intrude on the beach due to the intervening dunes and vegetation. Experiential Attributes: The salt spray, surf, windswept dune and headland vegetation and contrast with the more sheltered estuary, the presence of wildlife and evident coastal processes all reinforce the exposure and rawness of the landscape. The nearby road and campground provide opportunities for visitors to experience the scenic beach including views towards Great Mercury Island, however a sense of isolation is retained due to the unsealed road and intact dune systems. Context / Setting: A long sandy bay, orientated to the ocean, the beach is less impacted by tidal fluctuations than many other Coromandel bays. Both the beach and inlet are backed by pastoral farming, dwellings and the Waikawau Camping Ground which lies adjacent to the character area. Beyond these localised modified areas, the bay is backdropped by low hills of extensive protected regenerating scrubland as well as tracts of exotic plantation forestry. The modified land uses are evident however remain relatively subservient in the context of the wider landscape and enclosed nature of the beach and bay. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The dynamic rhythm and wave action on the beach and bluffs provides a counterpoint for the natural flow variations, clarity and flood cycles in the river delta. Other transient factors such as the presence of salt spray and wading birds also emphasise the landscape’s natural processes. Night-time Values: Nearby dwellings, the campground, and Waikawau Beach Road start to affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment at night. Summary and Key Attributes The large sandy bay contains beach and dune systems, coastal headland, salt marsh and estuarine wetlands, and incorporates the toes of two bush clad spurs across the road from the campsite. The campground and associated grassed area in between was excluded due to the scale and extent of modification.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

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1. The intact coastal headland feature with indigenous coastal forest cover. The proximity of development within Little Bay impacts the perceived naturalness however its biophysical characteristics remain intact.

2. The extensive, clearly articulated dune and estuarine landscape which contains a rich, sensitive and diverse range of habitat and natural processes as well as providing a high level of experiential attributes.

3. The sequence of headlands, bay and estuarine inlet which interact directly with the sea, and

are highly expressive of the landscape’s formative processes as well as dynamic coastal processes.

47

Little Bay and Kokumata Point to Whanake Point (Kennedy Bay)

Outstanding

Landforms: The character area comprises intact coastal slopes and streams characterised by the undulating ridgeline profile and dynamic varied coastline including several rocky promontories, larger elevated headlands, sandy and stony bays and coves, islands, sheer seacliffs, escarpments, and wave cut platforms, all providing strong engagement with the ocean and expressive of their volcanic origins. The high point, Whanake (305m asl), serves as a bush clad backdrop to the settlement at Tuateawa and to Taiharuru Bay. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The character area is covered in intact native coastal forest with regenerating to mature podocarp forest giving way to pioneer coastal shrublands on ridgelines and exposed coastal slopes, reinforcing the strong elevated relief. As well as smaller cliffland fragments, the vegetation cover forms part of the extensive, nationally significant Taiharuru Forest site which includes a pohutukawa-nikau-puriri-taraire association and tawa-rimu forest with emergent rata. The rocky islands are highly weathered, the degree of exposure reinforced by low growing vegetation which clings to the rock faces. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The varied terrain and incised nature of the coastline from gentle sloping bays to the sudden vertical relief of some headland landforms and rocky islets, reinforced by indigenous vegetation patterns results in dramatic engagement with the open sea. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There is little apparent modification in the character area with the exception of a gravel access track to a couple of dwellings in small clearings at Taiharuru Bay, as well as small sections where the unsealed Tuateawa Road passes through the character area. The scale and nature of these developments means they are peripheral to the extensive forested slopes. Proximity to the coastal settlements at Little Bay and Tuateawa begins to impact on the naturalness of the immediately adjacent character area boundaries however overall, the forest and landforms remain relatively unmodified, rugged and wild, imparting a very strong sense of naturalness.

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Habitat Value: The extensive vegetation cover and landform enable an ecological sequence connecting the upper ridge lines, down through valleys, coastal slopes and escarpments to the rocky shore and Coastal Marine Area, providing for a wide range of valuable habitat opportunities. The forest and shoreline provide habitat for nationally threatened fauna including shorebird species. Natural Processes: Natural processes are strongly expressed in the windswept vegetation and interplay of tidal interaction and coastal erosion with its sculpted coastline of craggy points and outcrops and sheer bluffs. The intact, varied coastline and its relationship to the ocean is further amplified by the low level of modification and the diverse tract of indigenous coastal forest cover which creates a contiguous ecological sequence from the sea up to the extensive forested hinterland. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The contiguous swathe of coastal forest meets sheer sea cliffs and rugged promontories, accentuating the landscape’s pronounced relief and imparting a strong sense of wildness. Despite the presence of the unsealed road and other limited modification, the extensive vegetation cover, highly expressive landforms, evident coastal processes and changeable atmospheric conditions heighten awareness of the area’s remoteness and wild character. Experiential Attributes: The abrupt relief of the landform and high level of coastal exposure create an impressive coastline of sculpted terrain and rock formations, characteristic of a wild coastal environment and imparting a high level of sensory and experiential attributes. While the coastline is difficult to access, the road enables access to the upper slopes where the extensive vegetation cover limits coastal views but further amplifies the sense of wilderness. Context / Setting: This large character area encompasses the peak of Whanake (374m asl) and several prominent headlands from Kokumata Point and Haupapa Point in the north to Whanake Point in the south. Tuateawa Road crosses the upper slopes of the character area, connecting the nearby settlements of Tuateawa and Little Bay, however immediately above the road lies further extensive protected regenerating scrubland and forest. These areas of development are subservient in the context of this wider landscape including the integral relationship between the character area’s complex, volcanic coastline and the open ocean. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The varied terrain of the landform and exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to atmospheric conditions and dynamic coastal processes. The highly weathered cliffs, rocky outcrops and islands convey continuous and ongoing change with the wave action of the open waters. Other ephemeral qualities commonly displayed and which naturally vary during seasons and weather patterns are associated with the forested stream gullies and changes in vegetation and wildlife.

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Night-time Values: The low level of modification, complex terrain and extensive vegetation cover within the character area means that despite its proximity to residential settlements, views of the night sky will largely be clear of light pollution.

48

Waihirere

High

Landforms: This small, discrete character area comprises the coastal orientated slopes of a low (102m asl) but prominent knoll and ridge – part of a broader sequence of ridges and hill country that descend from Whanake. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Most of the area is in regenerating coastal scrublands and forest including a sequence of remnant coastal forest and groves of Nikau Palms. The vegetation is considered regionally significant and serves as a buffer for multiple adjacent significant sites. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The low peak rises abruptly above the exposed coastline and forms the northern face of the Tuateawa Stream inlet. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There are no apparent buildings or structures within the character area, however the adjacent settlement and road corridor impact on the cohesion and naturalness of the coastal environment. Habitat Value: The character area is small however the varied regenerating scrubland and forest cover with low modification, a coastal aspect and connected to extensive inland indigenous forest, provides a range of habitat types and serves as a buffer for adjacent areas containing threatened species. Natural Processes: The coastal slopes support a diversity of relatively intact native vegetation, legible vegetation patterns and with regenerating shrublands dominating the exposed southerly slopes, reinforce the character area’s proximity to coast. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The extensive vegetation cover and the landform’s engagement with the Pacific Ocean express some wild characteristics. The proximity of this character area to development at Tuateawa, and its separation from the foreshore by the gravel road, reduce the sense of remoteness. Experiential Attributes: The elevated landform, vegetation cover and type and proximity to the sea, convey naturalness. The road provides for travellers to appreciate the connection between the coastline and the contrasting

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bush covered slopes. Context / Setting: The small character area is located on the southern fringes of the settlement at Tuateawa, north of the Tuateawa Stream inlet. The HNC area is predominantly vegetated and backed by the extensive, protected forest cover of the inland ranges. The settlement is also largely nestled amongst native bush with some open grassed areas along the lower coastal slopes and up the Tuateawa Stream valley. Overall the character of the wider landscape is dominated by the extensive bush cover and its relationship with the sea, including views that encompass the Mercury Islands. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The vegetation cover and types, birdlife and neighbouring stream all impart transient qualities which vary with different seasons and weather patterns. The coastal boundaries of the character area provides opportunities to convey dynamic natural attributes such as those associated with tidal fluctuations and wave activity. Night-time Values: While there is a lack of potential light sources within the character area, lighting from the nearby settlement affects the perceived intactness of the wider coastal environment.

49A

Tuateawa Point to the Northern Margins of the Kennedy Bay Estuary

Outstanding

Landforms: This character area comprises the intact coastal orientated slopes descending from Kahutara (284m asl) and forming the prominent headland that encloses Kennedy Bay. As well as steep spurs and gullies, this varied landscape features exposed weathered cliffs, escarpments and rocky bluffs, rocky shoals and islands, sandy Te Kapoai Bay and the estuarine margins backing the delta formed by Whareroa and Huakitoetoe streams. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The slopes and streams are overlaid in a contiguous swathe of primary coastal forest and regenerating scrublands from sea to ridgetops and headwaters. Vegetation types include pohutukawa-broadleaved forest with kauri-tanekaha forest on slopes and spurs and is considered to be of national significance. The lower slopes backing Te Kapoai Bay are characterised by pasture, interspersed with mature pohutukawa. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The varied terrain of the coastline from sheltered, gentle sloping estuarine margins to the sudden vertical relief of exposed headland landforms and rocky islets, reinforced by indigenous vegetation patterns results in contrasting, dynamic engagement with the sea and stream delta and a very strong sense of naturalness.

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Land Uses / Activities / Structure: With the exception of some access tracks, there is very limited modification within the boundaries of this character area. A collection of dwellings at the north end of Te Kapoai Bay, together with the cleared pastoral grass around them affords a more modified character and have therefore been excluded from this character area of Outstanding Natural Character. These dwellings, the adjacent settlement at Kennedy Bay and the cuts and vegetation clearance for the access roads begin to affect the cohesion and naturalness of the coastal environment however they remain peripheral to the scale of intact bush clad landform and very strong sense of naturalness overall. Habitat Value: The character area offers an array of high biotic habitats due to the contiguous coverage of indigenous vegetation including forested streams from sea to headwaters, the intact and varied coastal landform and very limited human presence. The area is home to nationally at risk, threatened and vulnerable species including several species of land snail and native frogs, breeding NZ Dotterel and variable oyster catchers. Natural Processes: The landforms of exposed cliffs and outcrops are highly expressive of the landscape’s formative and ongoing coastal processes. Dramatic sea cliffs, exposed rocky shores and visible rock exposures on steep coastal slopes reveal the area’s volcanic geology and coastal erosion processes. The sequence of vegetation from estuary and duneland to elevated ridgetop and the forested ranges beyond supports regeneration processes and wider ecological connections. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: the absence of modification, and a contiguous swathe of coastal scrubland and podocarp forest on the mid to upper slopes, terminate with jagged rocky outcrops and coastal bluffs. These aspects accentuate the coastal environments pronounced relief and imparts a strong sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: Experiential attributes are exceptional, primarily due to the interrelationship and intactness of the elements, patterns, and processes that are present. The scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform, contiguous sequence of vegetation, jagged rocky outcrops and coastal bluffs and their relationship with the ocean impart a wild and rugged character. Context / Setting: The character area comprises a prominent headland landform that is part of a broader sequence of largely unmodified coastal cliffs, ridges and valleys. Contiguous indigenous vegetation cover extends from the coastal edge up to the main Coromandel Range. The combination of exposed rocky bluffs, islands and promontories together with the estuarine margins means there is a very strong connection from mountains to the sea. The coastline is orientated towards, and affords views of the Mercury Islands. Settlements to the north and south are apparent and start to affect the cohesion of the character area’s margins.

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Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The varied terrain of the landform and exposed aspect make the character area highly receptive to dynamic coastal processes. The highly weathered cliffs, rocky outcrops and islands convey continuous and ongoing change with the wave action of the open waters. Other ephemeral qualities commonly displayed and which naturally vary during seasons and weather patterns are associated with the forested stream gullies and changes in vegetation and wildlife such as the nesting shorebirds at Te Kapoai Bay. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to the lights of dwellings and vehicles within the character area. Lighting from the dwellings in Te Kapoai Bay and the settlements to the north and south starts to affect the perceived intactness of the adjoining coastal environment.

49B

Te Kapoai Bay Beach

High

Landforms: The character area comprises the northern end of Te Kapoai Bay Beach and grassy backslopes. The slopes are interspersed by geological exposures and a rocky stream bed which widens out as it transitions through the dunes. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The lower section of the valley that incorporates this character area is characterised by pasture, scattered mature pohutukawa and some regenerating scrubland and tussock duneland. This small tract buffers and integrates with the surrounding bush clad hills – the Kennedy Bay protected coastal forest, a contiguous swathe of primary coastal forest and regenerating scrublands. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The character area has a direct relationship with the waters of Te Kapoai Bay. Incorporating a rocky stream and part of the Te Kapoai Bay dune system, the area is a coherent part of a wider landform sequence that is highly expressive of the landscape’s formative and ongoing coastal processes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Multiple small dwellings occupy the cleared slopes above the beach, clearly visible from the beach and Te Kapoai Bay seascape. The presence of the buildings is amplified by the cleared area surrounding them, together creating a distinctly modified character. However, these areas of modification remain relatively subservient in the context of the wider highly natural landscape. Habitat Value: The dune system of the bay is home to a pair of breeding NZ Dotterel and several variable oyster catchers. The adjacent, relatively intact bush covered hills and coastline support habitat for other nationally at risk and threatened species.

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Natural Processes Incorporating a rocky stream and part of the Te Kapoai Bay dune system, the area is a coherent part of, and reinforces the abiotic characteristics and perceptual values of the wider coastal environment. Despite its own modifications, the interrelationship of this character area with the intactness of the elements, patterns and processes of the wider landscape, including the dramatic relief, wild and rugged character of the landforms, and contiguous swathe of vegetation cover, imparts a very strong sense of naturalness overall. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The enclosure of the bay by steep elevated slopes and intact indigenous vegetation cover, limited accessibility, and the dynamic engagement of the character area with the sea imparts a sense of wildness, despite the presence of the dwellings and pasture. Experiential Attributes: Despite the presence of the dwellings and surrounding pastoral clearing, the experiential attributes of the bay and adjoining coastal environment are exceptional. The scale and relief of the enclosing landforms, the contiguous swathe of coastal forest and scrubland and the direct relationship of the character area to the beach and bay contribute to a rugged character and strong sense of naturalness. Context / Setting: The contextual attributes of the character area are very high as the pasture and buildings represent a small part of a much broader continuum of natural elements, patterns and processes within this coastal environment. There is a strong relationship and interaction with the broader unmodified landform, surrounding indigenous vegetation, dune system and stream outlet. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: This beach character area affords a highly atmospheric interaction with Pacific Ocean, affected by weather, light conditions, and time of year / day. Other transient factors such as wading birds also emphasise the coastal environments natural processes. Night-time Values: Lighting from the dwellings reduces the perceived intactness of the immediate coastal environment.

50

Kennedy Bay Estuary and Margins

High

Landforms: Largely intact coastal estuarine plains and open tidal inlets which mark the entrance to Kennedy Bay and drains the catchment of the entire north east Coromandel Range. Both estuaries are flanked by a narrow sand spit that separates them from Kennedy Bay. The flat coastal plains contrast with the elevated foothills surrounding them. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Sequence of shrub, salt marsh and patches of mangroves cover the majority of the intertidal flats.

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Areas of pasture interspersed with wetland characterise the inland margins of the coastal plain. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The inlet comprises a highly legible open body of water. Over a dozen tributaries from the Coromandel Range feed the estuaries. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Pastoral farming, forestry and scattered houses abut the inlet but remain relatively subservient in the context of the wider landscape. Habitat Value: Estuarine habitat benefiting from low modification and flanked by indigenous vegetation on foothills and within the majority of the coastal plain - connection with adjacent sand spit. Natural Processes: The estuarine flats and the tidal variation of the inlet display an expressive interplay with the coastal environment. The Pacific Ocean’s tidal rhythm provides a counterpoint for the inlet’s natural flow variations, clarity and flood cycles. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The enclosure of the coastal plain by elevated foothills, indigenous vegetation cover, and the dynamic engagement of the coastal plain with the ocean imparts a sense of wildness, despite the presence of isolated dwellings and pasture. Experiential Attributes: The dynamic and ephemeral nature of the inlet imparts a strong sense of naturalness, despite the presence of the Kennedy Bay settlement, forestry, and surrounding pastoral landscape. Enclosing landforms, particularly Coromandel Range to the west, also contribute to the feeling of naturalness. Context / Setting: The rural outlook includes a sequence of modified and developed pastoral valleys that contrast with vegetated ridges and slopes. The character of the character area itself is devoid of modification and connects to the open expanse of the Pacific Ocean and the extensive forest cover of the Coromandel Range. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Highly atmospheric interaction with Pacific Ocean, affected by weather, light conditions, and time of year / day. Other transient factors such as wading birds also emphasise the coastal environments natural processes. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to light sources within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures. Lighting from isolated dwellings affects the perceived

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intactness of the adjoining coastal environment.

51

Kennedy Bay – Wainuiototo (New Chums) Bay

Outstanding

Landforms: The extensive sequence of intact coastal hill country includes a series of dramatically cliffed headlands and bays, together with prominent ridgelines that strongly define the coastal environment. The coastal edge is characterised by a distinct craggy shoreline interspersed by white sandy beaches and an intact dune sequence including Wainuiototo Bay. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Extensive and contiguous swath of regenerating to mature podocarp forest covers the upper coastal hill country giving way to coastal shrubland on exposed peaks and coastal slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Exposed aspect and interaction of the rocky and sandy shoreline with the Pacific Ocean amplifies the relief and steepness of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of buildings and structures – adjacent pine forestry and farmland to the south impacts on the cohesion and naturalness of the adjoining coastal environment. Habitat Value: Very diverse coastal habitat due includes a clearly defined matrix of native forest descending into coastal margins, including windswept scrub on steep coastal slopes, and bays and rock shelves that clearly articulate the processes underlying this landscape. Natural Processes: Exposed coastal edge and outcrops of the landform reveal their underlying geology and are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Clear vegetative sequence from coastal scrubland to podocarp forest, combined with exposed cliffs which reinforce the topography and pronounced relief of the landform as well as coastal erosion and wind exposure. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The absence of modification, contiguous swathe of coastal scrubland and coastal forest on mid to upper slopes, terminating with jagged rocky outcrops along the skyline and coastal bluffs, accentuates the landscapes pronounced relief and imparts a strong sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: The scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform, sequence of vegetation as well as the relationship with the Pacific Ocean impart a very strong sense of naturalness.

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Context / Setting: Part of a broader sequence of ridges and valleys covered indigenous vegetation that extend to the Coromandel Range. Strong connection with the Pacific Ocean. Settlements to the north and south are apparent although they have little impact on the cohesion of the character area. Pine forestry along landward extent of the character area is generally not visible from public locations. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of land and harbour including variation resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day / year, tide and wildlife. Wading and sea birds prevalent Night-time Values: Limited exposure to lights due to the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area imparts a strong sense of naturalness.

52

Ridges and Foothills above Wainuiototo (New Chums) Bay

High

Landforms: This character area encompasses a cohesive sequence of coastal slopes and valleys that form part of the backdrop to Whangapoua and Wainuioto bays. The landforms can be grouped into three areas: the east facing upper escarpment above Wainuiototo Bay (between the vegetated lower slopes and the ridge crest) including the valley and stream immediately to the north; the south facing slopes that back onto the Motuto Point escarpment and adjoin Whangapoua Beach; and the inland valleys associated with the Pungapunga River. The upper slopes of the Wainuiototo escarpment are an integrated part of the broader seaward facing escarpment. There is a very sharp transition between the moderate to gentle topography of this upper escarpment and ridge crest, and the abrupt incline of the lower slopes which reinforces the ongoing coastal processes and strong physical connection to the sea. Two short gullies above the Pungapunga River mouth descend south from the Wainuiototo ridge to the Whangapoua shoreline, forming a strong link with the broader bay and escarpment sequence including Motuto Point. The river mouth is characterised by boulders and shifting sand bars. The inland valleys that are part of this HNC character area consist of the Whangapoua Northern Valley and the Wairiri Stream catchment. The Northern Valley is a broad shallow valley draining into the Pungapunga River near the mouth. It extends inland some 1.6km to the prominent ridge that ties the two bays and these coastal foothills together. The valley is dissected by numerous gullies characterised by strong relief and intact landforms. South of that valley is the Wairiri Stream catchment. This area is set further inland and forms part of the same prominent ridge backdropping Whangapoua Beach. Numerous boulderfields cross the slopes revealing the underlying geology and the intactness of this landform remains legible.

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Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The character area encompasses a range of vegetation types. Pastoral land use interspersed with scrubland dominates the upper escarpment/ ridge crest above Wainuiototo Bay and the upper slopes and ridges between the gullies above the Pungapunga River mouth. The vegetation is more intact within these gullies. The hilltop is flanked on all sides by indigenous coastal forest and forms part of a continuous sequences of intact coastal landforms and ribbons of vegetation. Both inland valleys have large tracts of tall indigenous kauri-kanuka-broadleaf forest within them, predominantly concentrated around the stream corridor. There is a clear sequence of vegetation types from puriri and fernland dominating the stream corridor, to kauri, rewarewa and tanekaha on the upper slopes and ridges. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: There is a strong physical and visual connection between the upper Wainuiototo escarpment and Whangapoua gullies and the sea, including the seascape and intact intertidal margins around the Pungapunga River. These areas frame and enclose the immediate bay and escarpment sequence. While the inland valleys are more isolated from the sea, they convey a predominance of coastal elements, patterns and processes that extend from the ridgetop to the shoreline. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Pastoral land use dominates the upper slopes and ridges, detracting from the vegetation and habitat attributes associated with natural character. A gravel access way traverses the north-south ridge of the Wainuiototo escarpment down toward the northern end of the bay while a small barn and three water tanks are located on the summit. However these modifications within the character area are very limited and overall the landforms remain highly legible and part of a coherent sequence. There is housing along the coastal margins and areas of pasture on ridges and pastoral coastal flats that are excluded from this HNC area. These areas of modification do begin to impact on the interface between land and sea, particularly the foredune and saltmarsh plains around the mouth of the river. However the natural processes associated with the sandy beach and boulder shoreline remain intact and they do not disrupt the integrity of the underlying landforms, the vegetation cover or the overall cohesion of this character area. Habitat Value: The character area provides opportunities for diverse coastal habitats including pockets of remnant indigenous vegetation, intact coastal landform including the connection and proximity to Pungapunga River, and the dunes and beach area of Whangapoua. The habitat value of the hill top/ upper escarpment and south facing ridges where pasture is the dominant cover are lower than those present in the vegetated areas however these areas are also interspersed with patches of kanuka and forest fragments including puriri, kohekohe, and taraire, forming some linkage value between the larger lowland forests and coastal forest remnants.

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The character area also incorporates several large tracts of coastal forest including the head of a catchment just north of Wairiri Stream as well as the lower valley system that drains out into Wainuiototo Bay. Both sit within SNAs that include nationally under-represented coastal forest and are considered of regional ecological significance. Natural Processes: The interplay between remnant vegetation and rural pasture reinforces landform. The pasture use does detract from the vegetation and habitat attributes and natural processes of vegetation sequencing and succession. The overall vegetation patterns and composition reinforce the hydrological systems of the catchment and amplify the underlying landform however regenerative processes of the smaller treeland remnants is compromised by stock access. However the absence of built structures, and the intactness of the landform and hydrological systems reinforced by vegetation patterning support a continuum of volcanic and coastal processes, creating a cohesive character area. The estuarine environment of Pungapunga River is highly expressive of the interplay between the Pacific Ocean’s tidal rhythm and the river’s natural flow variations, clarity and flood cycles. The foredune and saltmarsh plains around the mouth of the river are compromised in places by farming and residential activity however the natural processes associated with the sandy beach and boulder shoreline remain intact. Natural processes are present in the stream valleys, reflected in the regeneration processes, stream erosion, and vegetation sequencing across the valley which reinforces the hydrological systems. Strong landform hydrology is reinforced by vegetation patterns and the dynamic movement of water along the stream corridors. The adjacent pine forestry starts to affect their perceived intactness but does not detract from their very high biophysical characteristics and they form part of the wider sequence of intact coastal landforms and drainage catchments. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The presence of a small hut, barn, tanks, tracks and pasture along the hilltop and upper Wainuiototo escarpment affect the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. However a sense of wildness is maintained due to the patterns of remnant and regenerating coastal forest, the strong connection with adjoining areas of coastal forest and hill country, and the very strong relationship of the underlying landform to the intact coastal edge. While the proximity to dwellings on the coastal margins and the Whangapoua settlement impacts on the sense of remoteness, the sequence of landforms and vegetation patterns still impart a strong sense of wildness and isolation. The extent and contiguous nature of the indigenous forest in the inland stream valleys contributes to a high degree of wildness and remoteness overall.

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Experiential Attributes: Experiential attributes are high. The character area is comprised of a clearly articulated hill and ridge sequence with limited modification that is attractively reinforced by remnants pockets of coastal forest and stream corridors, imparting a sense of naturalness. There is also a strong connection between the collection of largely intact landforms including elevated, coastal orientated terrain, and the adjoining seascape. Those parts of the character area that have a predominantly easterly and seaward orientated aspect such as the upper Wainuiototo escarpment amplify the experience of being on the coast due to the strong visual presence of the sea and unmodified intertidal margins and those experiential and sensory attributes associated with wind exposure. The Whangapoua Northern Valley and Wairiri Stream are comparatively isolated from the sea and have lower coastal sensory attributes, however the extent and contiguous nature of the indigenous forest in these valleys contributes to a strong sense of wildness and remoteness. Context / Setting: Located on the northeast coast of the Coromandel Peninsula, the character area encompasses a cohesive sequence of elevated coastal ridges, slopes and valleys that tie together the bays and escarpments of Whangapoua and Wainuioto. The hilltop and upper Wainuiototo escarpment form an important part of the context to the intact natural escarpments of Wainuiototo Bay and Whangapoua Bay, retaining a high degree of remoteness and wildness despite the pastoral land use. Visual and physical connections are also evident with adjoining areas of coastal forest and hill country although the context of pasture and pine forest on the margins of some of these areas impacts on the perceived naturalness. The neighbouring Whangapoua settlement and barren areas of farmland to the south also start to affect the cohesion of the character area’s margins. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated hilltop and ridges, and the coastal margins incorporated in this character area convey transient and dynamic attributes associated with their exposure to and interaction with the sea. These include the changing weather and light conditions over different times of the day and year and the dynamic interaction of the ocean’s tidal rhythm. Transient/dynamic attributes are also high in the stream valleys due to the ephemeral movement of water through the stream corridors and the presence of avifauna. Night-time Values: Lighting from the nearby settlement of Whangapoua affects the perceived intactness of the adjoining coastal environment. Intrusion from light spill will primarily be limited to those southerly slopes orientated towards Whangapoua Bay, and to the Pungapunga River margins. The inland valleys and

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much of the Wainuiototo ridge will largely be screened by vegetation and topography and retain night time values. Summary and Key Attributes The coastal slopes and valleys that backdrop Whangapoua and Wainuioto bays tie the bays and escarpments together. While predominantly pastoral, the hilltop above Wainuiototo Bay forms an important part of the context, retaining a high degree of remoteness and wildness. Visual and physical connections are also evident with adjoining areas of inland coastal forest and hill country where there is a predominance of natural elements.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The lack of built structures on elevated, coastal orientated terrain such as the upper Wainuiototo escarpment, and the strong connection with the adjoining seascape, amplify experiential and natural processes due to the strong visual presence of the sea and unmodified intertidal margins.

2. The large tracts of coastal forest and stream corridors in the inland catchments reinforce the clearly articulated hill and ridge sequence and hydrological systems despite impacts from the presence of adjacent pine forestry.

3. The southeast facing slopes on the Pungapunga River margins and those adjacent to the large tracts of farmland are sensitive to further modification - the neighbouring Whangapoua settlement and farming modifications start to affect the cohesion of the character area’s margins.

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Western Whangapoua Harbour Margins; Te Rehutae Point

High

Landforms: Largely intact sequence of prominent ridges, coastal slopes, valleys, and headland that frame the adjacent coastal flats of Whangapoua Harbour. Includes and series of low lying depositional islands within the harbour area and Te Rehutae Point. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: A contiguous cover of remnant and regenerating indigenous coastal forest that adjoins the harbour and Pacific Ocean. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The coastal environment interacts dynamically with the waters of the Whangapoua Harbour and Pacific Ocean. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: A number of buildings are apparent on coastal slopes above Whangapoua Road and associated causeway, however given the predominance of natural attributes, this modification does not disrupt the integrity of the underlying landforms, vegetation cover or the overall cohesion of the character

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area. Habitat Value: Diverse coastal habitat due to the sequence of vegetation from mangrove, salt marsh and coastal scrub through to remnant indigenous vegetation on elevated coastal slopes. Natural Processes: Clearly defined matrix of native forest descending into coastal margins, including mangrove colonies, bays and rock shelves that clearly articulate the processes underlying the coastal environment. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Natural qualities are clearly evident in the amalgam of landforms native forest remnants and their relationship with both the Whangapoua Harbour and Pacific Ocean / contributing to a sense of wilderness. Experiential Attributes: Very clearly defined headland landform, and sequence of ridges, slope, islands, bay combine with indigenous forest to create a very clearly articulated coastal landscape. This is framed and enhanced by the open sea and adjoining harbour. Context / Setting: Visual and physical connections with adjoining areas of coastal forest and hill country. Whangapoua settlement and barren areas of farmland to the south start to affect the cohesion of the character area’s margins. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Highly atmospheric interaction with Pacific Ocean and tidal influence of the Whangapoua Harbour , affected by weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Night-time Values: Lighting from nearby settlement affects the perceived intactness of the adjoining coastal environment.

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Matarangi Distal Spit

High

Landforms: Northern dunes, distal spit and southern side of Whangapoua Harbour entry channel – a defining feature for both the harbour and the western end of Matarangi Beach. Vegetation type, Cover & Patterns: Open exposed sandy areas of the spit characterised by patches of dune grasses while the southern side of the spit is dominated by sequences of mangroves, saltmarsh, coastal scrub and grasses, and pines. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies:

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Distal spit feature linked with wider ocean beach and harbour mouth. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Senescent pine, scattered houses surrounding the golf course abut the spit but remain relatively subservient in the context of the dominant patterns and processes of the coastal environment. Habitat Value: Estuarine habitat benefiting from low modification and flanked by indigenous vegetation on foothills and within the majority of the coastal plain - connection with adjacent sand spit. Natural Processes: Dynamic series of sandy shoals and islands projecting out into the CMA creating a gateway to the Whangapoua Harbour. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Despite the presence of isolated dwellings and pasture, the enclosure of the coastal plain by elevated foothills, indigenous vegetation cover, and the dynamic engagement of the coastal plain with the ocean imparts a sense of wildness. Proximity to Matarangi settlement is visually and physically separated by littoral pines. Experiential Attributes: Archetypal spit landform at the junction of the harbour and open sea. Context / Setting: Direct influence of harbour entrance, and expansive open water body of Whangapoua Harbour. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Combination of dune spit and tidal harbour and Matarangi Beach including variation resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day/year, tide and wildlife. Presence of wading birds and sea birds. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures -pines within golf course visually and physically separate the character area from Matarangi settlement.

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Matarangi Bluff

High

Landforms: Highly prominent headland feature characterised by its elevated landform and exposed basalt based rocky escarpments and wave cut platform. Vegetation type, Cover & Patterns: Contiguous coverage of remnant and regenerating indigenous coastal forest that adjoins the coastal edge to the Pacific Ocean. Mature pohutukawa characterise the immediate coastal edge of the

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headland landform. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The coastal environment is strongly focused towards the expansive Pacific Ocean due to its exposure, orientation and apparent wave action along its margins. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of structures / buildings, although a gravel access road wraps around the seaward edge of the headland which remains subservient in the context of the surrounding landform, patterns, and processes. Habitat Value: Ranges of coastal habitat due to the established nature and sequence of vegetation from coastal scrub through to remnant indigenous vegetation on elevated coastal slopes. Natural Processes: The interplay of vegetated coastal slopes, prominent craggy features, and the tidal open waters of the Pacific Ocean are expressive of the landscapes highly dynamic nature. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The absence of modification, contiguous swathe of coastal forest and scrubland on exposed coastal slopes, terminating with jagged rocky outcrops and coastal bluffs, accentuates the landscapes pronounced relief and imparts a strong sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: Very dramatic landform, with exposed slopes that dynamically interact with the Pacific Ocean. A sequence of headlands and bays that have a clear structure and pattern, which is positively reinforced by vegetation patterns. Context / Setting: Visual and physical connections with adjoining areas of coastal forest and hill country and relatively isolation from modification enhances perceptions of remoteness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Highly atmospheric interaction with Pacific Ocean and tidal influence on embayment’s and rock platforms affected by weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Night-time Values: Absence of lighting across the character area as a whole, and isolation from nearby settlement enhances perceived intactness of the coastal environment.

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Black Jack/ Kuaotunu Coastline

High

Landforms: Intact sequence of steep coastal ridges and escarpments – part of a broader sequence of ridges and hill country rising up to Black Jack Hill and Waitaia. Includes a series of small stony beaches interspersed by craggy cliffs and rock platforms. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Sequence of remnant coastal forest and windswept scrub cover the ridges and slopes which reinforce underlying topography. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Exposed aspect and interaction with the Pacific Ocean amplifies the relief and steepness of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of buildings and structures – adjacent road corridor and forestry impacts on the cohesion and naturalness of the coastal environment. Habitat Value: Varied forest habitat benefiting from low modification, extensive indigenous vegetation cover and exposed coastal landform. Natural Processes: Highly expressive landform and interaction with the sea; strong backdrop to the northern end of Kuaotunu. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Despite nearby dwellings located outside the character area, the extensive vegetation cover and the landforms engagement with the Pacific Ocean impart a sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: The scale and dramatic vertical relief of the landform as well as the relationship with the Pacific Ocean impart a sense of naturalness. Context / Setting: Part of wider sequence of coastal hill country rising up to Black Jack and acting as the gateway to Otama and Opito Bay to the east. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Highly atmospheric interaction with Pacific Ocean, affected by weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Apparent coastal birdlife.

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Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures. Lighting from nearby settlement affects the perceived intactness of the adjoining coastal environment.

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Black Jack/ Motuhua Point Coastline

High

Landforms: Intact prominent headland (Motuhua Point), steep coastal escarpments, craggy cliffs and rock platforms which provides a strong backdrop to the western end of Otama Beach Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Sequence of regenerating to mature coastal forest cover, giving way to pioneer coastal shrub lands on ridgelines and exposed coastal slopes which reinforce underlying topography. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Exposed aspect and interaction with the Pacific Ocean amplifies the relief and steepness of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of buildings and structures – adjacent road corridor and forestry impacts on the cohesion and naturalness of the coastal environment Habitat Value: Varied forest habitat benefiting from low modification, extensive indigenous vegetation cover and exposed coastal landform. Natural Processes: Highly expressive landform and strong elevated relief reinforced by indigenous vegetation patterns. Wind swept vegetation and coastal erosion reinforce the exposure and interaction with the sea and rawness of the coastal environment. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The extensive vegetation cover and landform engagement with the Pacific Ocean impart a sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: Very dramatic landform, with exposed slopes that dynamically interact with the Pacific Ocean and impart a high degree of naturalness – relative absence of dwelling and structures reinforce a sense of remoteness. Context / Setting: Part of a broader sequence of ridges and hill country rising up to Black Jack Hill – dwellings, farming,

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and forestry are apparent in close proximity to the character area and impact of the cohesion and intactness of the coastal environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Highly atmospheric interaction with Pacific Ocean, affected by weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Apparent coastal birdlife. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures.

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Otama Beachfront and Wetland

High

Landforms: Intact and clearly articulated dune system flanking an extensive white sandy beach. At the central/eastern end of the beach the sinuous tidal flow of the Otama River breaches the dune system creating an inlet, which is flanked by a small escarpment along its southwest edge. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Spinifex and pingao dune grasses cover the majority of the dune sequence. Coastal scrub shelters in between dune sequences and along the rear of the dunes. Salt marsh and other wetland species line the edges of the Otama River inlet. Giant pohutukawa spill over the inlet along its southwest edge. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The Beach is very strongly focused toward the expanse of the Pacific Ocean due to the enclosing landforms and its pronounced dune sequence. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Limited modification within the character area - Pasture abuts the landscape from the south, separated by a gravel road. Several dwellings occupy the high ground above the beach to the west, while a cluster of dwellings are located at the base of the headland at the eastern end of the Beach. Habitat Value: Rare intact dune and estuarine habitat benefiting from low modification. Natural Processes: Very obvious combination of natural elements and dynamic natural processes, in particular related to the beach and dune corridor. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Despite the incursion of the farming backdrop and limited pockets of development the character area’s naturalness is derived from an amalgam of its natural elements, the dynamic and obvious natural processes at play along the beach and its relative remoteness and wildness.

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Experiential Attributes | arising from the combination of the beach’s expansive aesthetic length, elevation of the dune corridor together with openness, remoteness and wildness. Context / Setting: Flanked by prominent elevated landforms at the west and eastern ends of the beach which clearly reinforces coastal processes. Pasture dominated backdrop to the south impacts on the cohesion and relative intactness of the coastal environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of beach dune corridor and Pacific Ocean affected by weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Other transient factors such as wading birds also emphasise the coastal environments natural processes. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures. Lighting from isolated dwellings affects the perceived intactness of the adjoining coastal environment.

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Kauwera Point to Mahinapua Rocks

High

Landforms: This character area incorporates a largely intact sequence of steep coastal escarpments that are part of a headland between Kauwera and Papatai Point and the northern dunefield of Opito Beach. The geomorphological attributes of this headland are highly legible and expressive of both formative and ongoing coastal processes. A continuous basalt boulder shoreline fringes the steep escarpment which rises abruptly to a plateau summit (Tamaihu) some 100m asl. A series of rocky outcrops punctuate the shoreline, the most prominent of which is Tokarahu Point - an unmodified coastal rock feature covered in indigenous coastal shrubland. It is connected to the headland by a narrow isthmus and becomes an offshore island at high tide. Extensive, legible rock and boulder fields cover the escarpment slopes while craggy bluffs and exposed rock escarpments are prevalent on Papatai Point. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Pasture dominates the headland and coastal escarpments of this character area while windswept coastal scrub and isolated pohutukawa-dominated coastal forest fragments punctuate sections of the coastal edge. These are more prevalent at the tips of Kauwera and Papatai Point. Spinifex and Pingao dune grasses cover the fore dunes to the back of Opito Bay Beach. The ecological area that encompasses the spinifex fore dunes considers them to be relatively unmodified, unprotected and of national significance.

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Although the rear dunes are more modified by weeds, pasture and/or housing development, natural components remain intact. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The exposed aspect and interaction with the Pacific Ocean amplifies the relief and steepness of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Pastoral land use dominates the entire headland. The HNC area is free of buildings and structures and with the exception of some farm tracking there is little other noticeable modification. The open areas of pasture increase the legibility of the rock field and become subservient to the interplay of landforms, escarpments, exposed cliffs and the open waters of the Pacific Ocean. Habitat Value: Coastal headlands and extensive beaches provide valuable habitat for a range of marine and coastal flora and fauna species. This character area provides varied shoreline habitat resulting from boulder beaches, steep craggy shoreline, island formations and beaches. The isolated pohutukawa have limited ecological value but the dunelands and beaches are highly valuable. The Opito Beach dune fields remain intact and are covered in indigenous dune grasses that provide habitat for NZ dotterel and other avifauna. They are identified in SNAs as nationally significant. Natural Processes: Coastal processes are strongly expressed in the sequence of landforms and their dramatic interaction with the Pacific Ocean. The basalt rock fields and exposed andesite reliefs are expressive of the landscape’s formative processes while the sand dunes interact with the arc of Opito Bay and are directly expressive of coastal processes. This combination of the unique geomorphological attributes of the headland, expressive coastal processes, the prominence of the headland and associated rugged and wild characteristics, and the limited presence of structures in the area creates a predominance of natural elements, patterns and processes. The farming context and future development of the northern dunefields area do not impact on its biophysical attributes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The absence of building and structures, the limited accessibility and the raw and exposed character of the coastal environment impart a strong sense of wildness and remoteness. Experiential Attributes: The intact escarpment, island and dune sequence with limited modification imparts a strong connection with, and experiential and sensory attributes related to the direct inter-relationship with the adjoining seascape. The raw and exposed character of the coastal environment is accentuated by the highly legible field of weathered boulders as well as the relationship with the Pacific Ocean and views to the Mercury Islands, all contributing to a very endemic landscape.

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Context / Setting: The prominent headland of Kauwera and Papatai Point projects into the sea between Otama Beach and Opito Bay, the closest point on the mainland to the Mercury Islands. While the HNC area is focused on the coastal orientated escarpments and dunes, the headland that encompasses these features is part of a broader sequence of coastal hill country characterised by pastoral / farming activities. While characteristics relating to the interplay of landform aspect, interaction with the sea, rock field patterning and weathering occur across the entire headland, farming modification becomes more prevalent, and natural elements, patterns and processes less so, further inland. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Variations resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day/year, tides, and flora and fauna such as the presence of NZ Dotterel in the Opito Bay dunefields, reinforce the landscape’s natural processes. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures. Summary and Key Attributes Steep coastal escarpments, rocky outcrops and intact dunefields characterise this character area, connected by a predominantly pastoral plateau. Coastal and formative processes are strongly expressed in the dune system and in the weathering and rock field patterning across the entire headland landforms, creating a cohesive character area.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The geomorphological attributes and coastal processes are highly legible and provide associated rugged and wild experiential characteristics.

2. The limited presence of structures. 3. The foredunes include unprotected, under-represented and originally rare spinifex

‘tussockland’ and together with the wider dune system provide highly valuable habitat.

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Opito Point – Matapaua Bay

High

Landforms: The area encompasses an extensive, richly varied sequence of exposed, elevated, steep coastal bluffs, headlands and escarpments, comprised primarily of volcanic rock, interspersed with small stony beaches, rocky outcrops and platforms. The headlands between Red Bay and Matapaua Bay rise dramatically to some 150m asl at Devils Point. Opito Point is a prominent feature which rises sharply to a distinctive flat top, flanking the eastern end of Opito Bay. An intact dune system backs a short length of Opito Bay beach at its eastern end. The landform of the dunes, in combination with indigenous coastal vegetation form a clear point of

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demarcation within the low lying basin behind Opito Beach. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Vegetation cover in the character area remains relatively intact despite the presence of pine forestry and pasture beyond much of the coastal ridge, creating a broad link between the sea and more extensive forest inland. To the north, scattered coastal primary pohutukawa and secondary forest and scrub cling to the coastal escarpments, interspersed with patches of pasture, particularly on Opito Point and the pastoral basin at the southern end of the headland. Further south, between Red Bay and Matapaua Bay, pasture becomes less frequent with regenerating to mature coastal forest cover dominating the headlands and pohutukawa canopy intact in relatively large areas. Forest gives way to coastal scrub on exposed ridgelines and coastal slopes. Opito Bay includes an area of under-represented and originally rare spinifex foredune which remains relatively unmodified. The rear dunes are modified by weeds and housing development, but natural components remain. The ecological values of the vegetation in this character area are high, much of which is considered of regional and national significance. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The varied coastline encompassing sheltered corners of sandy bays provide a contrast with the eastern orientated rocky outcrops and weathered bluffs, exposed to the ocean. The elevated headlands and exposed escarpments maintain a direct and expressive interaction with the Pacific Ocean, providing a dramatic setting that defines the coastal landscape. The more sheltered beach margins also impart a strong sense of naturalness due to intact dune systems at Opito Bay and the contiguous forest from ridgeline to sea at Matapaua Bay. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: While there is housing development in adjacent Opito Bay and Matapaua Bay, they are separated from most of the HNC area by headland landforms. There is very little development within the character area itself other than pasture and farm tracking. The open areas of pasture, particularly around Opito Point are subservient to the highly expressive interplay between the landforms and open water. The extensive pine forest inland from the character area is also a noticeable modification however the steep, elevated terrain and dominance of indigenous vegetation means that these coastal forests, escarpments, and exposed cliffs appear as a distinct character character area. Habitat Value: The character area provides a rich variety of coastal habitat due to the established nature and sequence of vegetation from spinifex foredunes and coastal scrub through to remnant indigenous vegetation on elevated coastal slopes and craggy shoreline. Opito Beach is home to the nationally

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threatened NZ dotterel which breed and feed there each season. Despite the character area’s proximity to areas of modification it is relatively intact and is able to provide a broad link between the sea and forest that is considered of regional and national ecological significance. Natural Processes: Despite the presence of pasture, forestry and some farm tracks nearby, natural processes remain clearly evident in the intact landform, native vegetation patterns and habitat and the character area’s dramatic interaction with the sea. The headland at Opito Point is expressive of natural coastal processes as a coherent whole. The dune formations at Opito Bay and the craggy steep bluffs and outcrops characteristic of this coastline are also highly expressive of the interplay of tidal interaction and coastal processes while the primary and secondary regenerating indigenous forest provides wider ecological linkages. The presence of NZ Dotterel in the Opito Bay dunefields, reinforce the landscape’s natural processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The lack of building and structures and the raw and exposed character of the landforms and aspect impart a strong sense of wildness. The steep, elevated nature of the escarpments and headlands screen and separate these coastal orientated slopes from adjacent areas of modification, reducing their impact. Experiential Attributes: The raw, exposed character of the coastal environment is accentuated by the sharply rising, intact headlands and sculptural rocky outcrops. The windswept vegetation patterning on the coastal slopes as well as the relationship with the ocean all contributing to a high level of experiential attributes. Context / Setting: Located at the end of a broad peninsula, this HNC area consists of a sequence of headlands, escarpments, bluffs and shoals that connect Opito Bay on the north coast with south-facing Matapaua Bay. Pine plantations crest the inland ridge and dominate the western margins. While the intrusion of the forestry negatively affects the perceived intactness and cohesion of the coastal environment as a whole, the lack of built development and structures and nature of the terrain heightens the sense of remoteness. While the windswept vegetation at Opito Point creates a distinctive surface and patterning at the northern end, the headland landform reads as a coherent whole and is difficult to physically and visually separate from the pastoral southern slopes. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The interplay of headlands, exposed slopes and open waters of the Pacific Ocean including variation resulting from weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Transient/dynamic attributes are also high due to the seasonal presence of NZ Dotterel in the Opito Bay dunefields.

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Night-time Values: Night time values are high due to the very limited exposure to lights within the character area. The proximity to dwellings and roads at each end of the character area, at Opito Bay and Matapaua Bay begins to intrude on the perceived naturalness of the area however impacts are limited due to the headland landforms that separate these modified areas. Summary/ Key Attributes:

A lack of built modification, exposed, elevated, volcanic bluffs, headlands and escarpments, and an intact dune system at Opito Bay characterise this character area. Opito Point is a prominent feature, while the landform of the dunes, in combination with indigenous coastal vegetation form a clear point of demarcation behind the beach. Vegetation cover in the character area remains relatively intact.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact, dramatic landforms provide a high level of experiential attributes and a direct, dynamic relationship with the sea.

2. Despite the pastoral activity that dominates the southern ridge, the Opito Point headland as a whole is expressive of natural coastal processes and an integral part of the wider coastal environment.

3. There is very little development within the character area with housing development in adjacent bays currently separated from most of the HNC area by headland landforms.

4. Intact native vegetation patterns and habitat. 5. A broad link between the sea and forest supports the high ecological values.

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Rabbit and Motukoruenga Island; Sunk, Needle, Old Man Rock

Outstanding

Landforms: Series of scattered offshore island landforms comprised primarily of volcanic rock, the islands rise sharply from surface of the sea, gradually evening out in to a rolling landscape. Exposed craggy rocks and stony beaches extending to rocky outcrops characterise the edge of the islands. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Windswept coastal scrub including manuka, flax, and coprosma desperately clings to the tops of the islands, while the more exposed cliffs and escarpments remain bare. Stunted pohutukawa are also prominent in places. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or structures exist or are apparent on the Islands.

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Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered coastal edge and outcrops of the landform reveal their underlying geology and are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of well-defined natural landforms, land cover, ocean setting, evidence of coastal processes and atmospheric conditions heighten the remote, raw and wild character of these islands. Experiential Attributes: The islands are completely unmodified rocky islands with a character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity. Their sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of the surrounding coastal exposure. Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape - highly exposed to the majority of the eastern coastline, particularly from Opito Bay. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of headlands, exposed slopes and open waters of the Pacific Ocean including variation resulting from weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Night-time Values: Limited exposure to lights due to the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area imparts a very strong sense of naturalness.

62

Motukoranga Island

Outstanding

Landforms: Offshore island landform comprised primarily of volcanic rock which rises sharply from surface of the sea. Exposed craggy rocks and stony beaches extending to rocky outcrops characterise the edge of the island. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Windswept coastal scrub including manuka, flax, and coprosma desperately clings to islands slopes, while the more exposed cliffs and escarpments remain bare. Stunted pohutukawa are also prominent in places. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape.

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Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or structures exist or are apparent on the Islands. Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered coastal edge and outcrops of the landform reveal their underlying geology and are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of coastal processes and atmospheric conditions heighten the remote, raw and wild character of the island. Experiential Attributes: Completely unmodified rocky island with a character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity. Their sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of the surrounding coastal exposure. Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape – strong visual and physical connection with Devils Point. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of island landform, exposed slopes and open waters of the Pacific Ocean including variation resulting from weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Night-time Values: Limited exposure to lights due to the absence of dwellings and structures within the character area imparts a very strong sense of naturalness.

63

Western Bush Margins of Matapaua Bay and Coastline

High

Landforms: Largely intact sequence of moderate to steep coastal escarpments at the western end of Matapaua Bay including a weathered rock field that covers its upper slopes, distinctive shoreline of basalt boulders, and island landform. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Largely covered remnant coastal forest with pastoral cover on upper slopes. Windswept coastal scrub and remnant pohutukawa line the coastal edge.

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Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Exposed aspect and interaction with the Pacific Ocean amplifies the relief and steepness of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of buildings and structures – the open areas of pasture become subservient to the interplay of landforms, escarpments, exposed cliffs and the open waters of the Pacific Ocean. Habitat Value: Clearly defined matrix of native forest descending into varied shoreline habitat including boulder beaches, rocky outcrops, and island formations. Natural Processes: Strongly expressed coastal processes evident in the sequence of landforms and their dramatic interaction with the Pacific Ocean. The basalt rock fields are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Interplay between remnant vegetation and rural pasture, reinforcing topography. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Absence of building and structures and the raw and exposed character of the coastal environment impart a strong sense of wildness despite the proximity to Matapaua settlement. Experiential Attributes: The raw and exposed character of the coastal environment is accentuated by the field of weathered boulders, exposed island landform as well as the relationship with the Pacific Ocean all contributing to a very endemic landscape. Context / Setting: Part of the coastal interface of an extensive sequence of hill country that rises up to Waitaia (311m). Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Variations resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day/year, tides, and wildlife reinforce coastal processes. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures.

64

Sandy Bay to Eastern Wataia Bay Coastline

Outstanding

Landforms: Extensive intact sequence of headlands, ridges and valleys with moderate to high relief, exposed weathered cliffs and escarpments, predominately rocky shoreline interspersed by three sandy bays

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(Sandy, Horseshoe & Double Bay). Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: A contiguous swath of regenerating to mature coastal forest covers the upper slopes and valleys giving way to coastal shrubland on exposed peaks and escarpments. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Exposed aspect and interaction with the Pacific Ocean amplifies the relief and steepness of the coastal slopes. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Essentially devoid of buildings and structures with some access tracks. Habitat Value: Very diverse coastal habitat due to the contiguous coverage of indigenous vegetation and intact coastal landform – limited human presence. Natural Processes: Exposed cliffs and outcrops of the landform reveal their underlying geology and are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. The interplay of mature indigenous forest and the vegetative sequence from coastal scrubland to coastal forest, combined with rocky outcrops reinforces the topography and pronounced relief of the landform. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The absence of modification, contiguous swathe of coastal scrubland and podocarp forest on mid to upper slopes, terminating with jagged rocky outcrops and coastal bluffs, accentuates the landscapes pronounced relief and imparts a strong sense of wildness. Experiential Attributes: Entirely natural wilderness experiment informed by very clearly articulated sequence of hill and river valley topography combined with forest remnants and natural coastal margins to create a very clearly structured and patterned hill country and coastal landscape. The whole landscape has a very strong endemic signature. Context / Setting: The character area is part of a broader sequence of ridges and valleys covered indigenous vegetation that extent up to Waitaia. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of land and Ocean including variation resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day / year, tide and wildlife. Wading and sea birds prevalent.

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Night-time Values: Very high naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures.

65

Whauwhau Bay to Northern Wharekaho Bay Coastline

High

Landforms: The character area is characterised by an extensive sequence of sandy beaches separated by small rocky headlands, islets and weathered bluffs. Beyond the shoreline, gently undulating ridges and valleys rise steadily inland before abruptly steepening to form the prominent peak of Maungatawhiri, some 300m asl. Numerous streams drain these coastal slopes. Maungatawhiri is a highly legible volcanic feature with basalt rock fields and a long, narrow, summit profile that maintains a high level of interaction with the coast. Wave and wind erosion are prevalent along the coastline and mid slopes. The southern slopes enclose Wharekaho Beach to the north and form the margins of Akeake Stream inlet. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The rocky shoreline and Whauwhau beaches to the north of the character area are backed by an almost contiguous margin of coastal forest and secondary growth shrublands. Some of the pohutukawa forest is primary and of very high ecological value ranking as nationally significant. South of Lion Rock, forest gives way to grassland with the lower to mid slopes of Maungatawhiri predominantly covered in pasture with scattered trees and regenerating forest in the valleys, coastal fringe and steep south facing slopes. This gives way to an extensive sequence of remnant and regenerating forest on the upper slopes of the hill encompassing forested streams to their headwaters. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The varied terrain of the character area from elevated slopes to sandy bays and rocky headlands, reinforced by indigenous vegetation patterns, results in a diverse relationship with the sea. From dramatic engagement with the open ocean sculpting the rocky outcrops to the more sheltered margins of Wharekaho Beach and the Akeake Stream delta. The prominent vertical relief of Maungatawhiri creates an extensive coherent connection between landscape and seascape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Isolated dwellings with some access tracks are scattered across the character area, generally in small clusters close to the foreshore of each sandy bay. They appear subservient to the combination of indigenous vegetation, extensive elevated backdrop and dynamic coastal landforms, with natural elements patterns and processes dominating the character of this coastal environment. While the mid slopes of Maungatawhiri are predominantly covered in pasture with several farm tracks and a small cluster of farm sheds, the numerous mature pohutukawa also scattered across these slopes physically connect the more forested areas. Much of the indigenous forested areas are protected

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including the DOC administered Maungatawhiri Recreation Reserve which contains much of the primary forest, as well QEII Open Space covenants. Habitat Value: The character area provides opportunities for very diverse coastal habitat due to the contiguous coverage of indigenous vegetation including forested headwaters and intact coastal landforms. While the mid-slopes of Maungatawhiri are predominantly in pasture, the numerous mature pohutukawa physically connect the various habitats across the mountain. The DOC administered Maungatawhiri Recreation Reserve contains much of this primary forest as well providing habitat for several nationally At Risk and Threatened plant and animal species such as Streblus banksia and NI brown kiwi. Natural Processes: The interplay of coastal forest along the coastal edge, gullies extending up the slopes, summit, and pohutukawa scattered across the pastoral ridges and slopes provide an ecological coastal to lowland forest sequence that reinforces natural drainage patterns and relief of the landform. Coastal erosion and wind exposure are also evident in the coastal landforms and vegetation and highly expressive of coastal natural processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Despite some modification due to pastoral land use and the presence of several dwellings and access tracks, the character area retains a strong sense of remoteness overall due to the combination of intact coastal landforms, extensive forest cover and the pronounced relief of Maungatawhiri. The small clusters of dwellings are relatively isolated from one another and even more so from roads and settlements. The pohutukawa scattered across the pastoral mid slopes add to the raw and remote characteristics of the areas. Experiential Attributes: The sensory and experiential attributes of this character area are high due to the strong and diverse relationship with the seascape. It represents a signature Coromandel landscape combining key elements of bush, coastal fringe, elevated peaks and coastal escarpments. Context / Setting: The character area, including Maungatawhiri is part of a broader sequence of ridges and valleys overlaid in indigenous vegetation that extends north, visually and physically connecting to the Waitaia catchment. Maungatawhiri is a highly legible landform which maintains a coherent interaction with the coast. This association is made more legible by the indigenous vegetation patterns that dominate the coastal margins and upper slopes and connect via the scattered pohutukawa across the mid slopes. The character of these coastal ridges and valleys is distinct from Wharekaho Beach settlement on the coastal flats to the south.

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Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated slopes, stream, sandy beaches and rock headlands create a dynamic interplay between land and sea including variation resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day / year, tide and wildlife. Dynamic wave and wind erosion are prevalent along the coastline and mid slopes of Maungatawhiri while other transient attributes are associated with the presence of fauna such as NI brown kiwi in some of the forested areas. Night-time Values: Night-time values are very high due to limited exposure to lights within the character area. Despite the presence of some dwellings, they are predominantly focused along the foreshore and relatively isolated from one another so that potential for lighting to disrupt the intactness of the character area is limited. Summary/ Key Attributes: The sequence of sandy beaches and small rocky headlands that characterise the shoreline are inextricably linked to the prominent peak of Maungatawhiri. While the mid slopes are covered in pasture and farm sheds and tracks, impacting on vegetation, land use and habitat, overall the mountain and slopes form a cohesive, legible volcanic landform that interacts strongly with the sea and cannot be separated out.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. Maungatawhiri is a highly legible landform and while the mid slopes of Maungatawhiri are modified by farming activities, there are numerous mature pohutukawa also scattered across these slopes that physically connect the more forested areas, reinforcing the coherent landform.

2. The strong natural processes including habitat values and hydrological patterns provided by the coastal to lowland forest sequence.

3. The sensory and experiential attributes are high due to the strong and diverse relationship with the seascape from sandy bays, elevated bush covered slopes, and rocky headlands.

4. Built form is currently subservient to the dominant natural elements patterns and processes of this coastal environment due to their low scale, density and clustered location surrounded by indigenous vegetation.

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Round Island (Mahungarape) and Centre Island (Motukorure)

Outstanding

Landforms: Offshore island landforms comprised primarily of volcanic rock which rises sharply from surface of the sea. Bare rock escarpments / headlands / slopes & islets characterise the islands coastal edge. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Small pockets of windswept remnant indigenous shrubland & bush cling to the tops and slopes of the Islands while the more exposed cliffs and escarpments remain bare.

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Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open waters of the Pacific Ocean and Mercury Bay provide a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or structures exist or are apparent on the Islands. Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered cliffs and craggy rock formations reveal their underlying geology along with and windswept indigenous vegetation are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The unmodified state of these islands together with the sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of coastal processes while their exposed position and atmospheric conditions at the entry to Mercury Bay heighten the remote, raw and wild character of the islands. Experiential Attributes: Completely unmodified rocky islands with a character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity. Their sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and heighten the sense of coastal exposure. Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean and Mercury Bay provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of island landform, exposed slopes and open waters of the Pacific Ocean including variation resulting from weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Night-time Values: A very high degree of naturalness is derived from the islands long distance to nearby settlement around Mercury Bay.

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Western Whitianga Harbour

High

Landforms: Expansive tidal harbour with a matrix of exposed sand bars and mud flats along with shallow and deep water channels. Intact sequence of coastal slopes that frame the western margins of the harbour.

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Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Mosaic of estuarine vegetation types although mangrove colonies dominate the upper and middle harbour areas. Wetland vegetation extends into shallow waters between the mouths of the rivers and streams feeding the Harbour. A contiguous coverage of remnant and regenerating indigenous coastal forest covers the coastal slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The coastal environment enjoys a dynamic interaction with the waters of the Harbour - the Pacific Oceans tidal rhythm provides a counterpoint for the harbour catchments natural flow variations, clarity and flood cycles. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Largely unmodified harbour environment with a scattering of dwellings located on coastal slopes amongst bush, however given the predominance of natural attributes, they do not disrupt the integrity of the underlying landforms, vegetation cover or the overall cohesion of the character area. Habitat Value: Rich and diverse coastal habitat due to the sequence of vegetation from mangrove, salt marsh and coastal scrub through to remnant indigenous vegetation on elevated coastal slopes. Natural Processes: The interplay of intertidal estuarine flats and the tidal influence of the Harbour are expressive of natural processes within the coastal environment. Clearly defined ecological sequence of remnant indigenous forest descending into coastal margins, including mangrove colonies and mud flats. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Natural qualities are clearly evident in the amalgam of landforms, native forest remnants and their relationship with the Whitianga Harbour contributing to a sense of wilderness although the proximity of Whitianga settlement limits this. Experiential Attributes: Very clearly defined harbour environment and interaction of indigenous forest, estuarine vegetation and mudflats which express natural coastal processes – the coastal environment has a strong endemic signature. Context / Setting: The adjoining coastal environment has been severely modified due to farming, exotic forestry, and recent development while the Whitianga settlement is located on the north western banks of the Harbour entrance which affect the cohesion of the character area’s margins. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of land and harbour including variation resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day / year, tide and wildlife. Wading and sea birds prevalent.

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Night-time Values: Lighting from nearby settlement starts to affect the perceived intactness of the adjoining coastal environment.

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Cooks Beach Ferry Landing to Kaitoke

High

Landforms: Extensive steep harbour escarpment interspersed with exposed Karst landforms adjoining the eastern extent of the harbour comprising mud flats, exposed sand bars, shallow and deep water channels. Vegetation type, Cover & Patterns: Continuous sequence of remnant and regenerating indigenous coastal forest / shrubland cover the harbour escarpment down the coastal edge merging with a mosaic of estuarine vegetation types. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The coastal environment enjoys a dynamic interaction with the waters of the Harbour – the Pacific Oceans tidal rhythm provides a counterpoint for the harbour catchments natural flow variations, clarity and flood cycles. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Largely unmodified escarpment and adjoin harbour margins with a small numbers of dwellings located on coastal slopes amongst bush, however given the predominance of natural attributes, they do not disrupt the integrity of the underlying landforms, vegetation cover or the overall cohesion of the character area. Habitat Value: Rich and diverse coastal habitat due to the sequence of vegetation from mangrove, salt marsh and coastal scrub through to remnant indigenous vegetation on elevated coastal slopes. Natural Processes: Clearly defined ecological sequence of remnant indigenous forest through to mangrove colonies and mud flats. The estuarine flats and tidal influence of the Harbour are expressive of the interplay of natural processes within the coastal environment. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Enclosing landforms, particularly the continuous vegetation cover on the eastern escarpment and the Harbour headland, also contribute to the feeling of wilderness. Experiential Attributes: Exposed karst landforms amongst indigenous coastal forest, expansive open water areas and tidal flats, absence of built form imbue the coastal environment with a memorable and strong endemic signature.

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Context / Setting: The adjoining coastal environment has been severely modified due to farming, exotic forestry, and recent development while the Whitianga settlement is located on the north western banks of the Harbour entrance which affect the cohesion of the character area’s margins. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of land and harbour including variation resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day / year, tide and wildlife. Wading and sea birds prevalent. Night-time Values: Absence of lighting across and above the escarpment contribute to the perceived intactness of the coastal environment.

69

Shakespeare Cliff Reserve and Headland

High

Landforms: Intact very prominent headland feature together with cliffs / promontories & coves - pumice rich volcanic rock gives the Cliffs their distinctive white appearance, which is synonymous with much of the adjoining eastern coastline. Includes Flaxmill and Cook Stream outlets and associated beach area adjacent to Cook Bluff. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Largely covered remnant and regenerating coastal forest with a small grassed reserve atop of the headland. Windswept coastal scrub and remnant pohutukawa line the coastal edge. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The cliffs maintain a direct and highly expressive interaction with Mercury Bay, providing a dramatic setting that defines the coastal landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of buildings – small lookout platforms, gravel access and carpark area. Habitat Value: Clearly defined matrix of indigenous forest descending into rocky outcrops and sandy beaches. Natural Processes: Strongly expressed coastal processes are evident in the dramatic interface between the line of cliffs, enclosed beach area, and the Pacific Ocean. The clear pattern and structure of the landforms is positively reinforced by vegetation patterns. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The absence of development / modification, amalgam of sculpted landforms, windswept and remnant

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coastal forest / scrub land, the dynamic and obvious natural processes at play along the coastline impart a sense of remoteness and wildness. Experiential Attributes: The coastal environment incorporates an iconic amalgam of natural elements, coastal features and processes that have a high degree of cohesion, structure, and patterning, as well as considerable diversity. The prominent forested landforms enclosing Lonely Bay create a sense of intimacy, devoid of human activity. Context / Setting: Part of a broader sequence of distinctive ignimbrite rock features along the coastline. Proximity to Cook Beach and Maramaratotara Bay settlements affects perceived intact of the coastal environments margins. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between this landform and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures within. Intactness of character areas margins affected by adjoin settlements.

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Cooks Bluff to Cathedral Cove

High

Landforms: Conspicuous sequence of sheer bluffs, coves and bays. The exposed cliff face reveals a pumice rich volcanic rock that give the cliffs their distinctive white appearance, and is synonymous with much of the adjoining eastern coastline. East of the headland sheer sculpted cliffs jut out into the sea and flank a series of sandy coves and bays. Vegetation type, Cover & Patterns: Largely covered in remnant coastal forest with patches of regenerating coastal scrub and wilding pines interspersed amongst the coastal forest. Windswept coastal scrub and remnant pohutukawa line the coastal edge of Cook Bluff. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The cliffs maintain a direct and highly expressive interaction with Mercury Bay, providing a dramatic setting that defines the coastal landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Several large residential houses have recently been established on the northern and western escarpment of Cook Bluff as well as the headland at the northern end of Haihei Beach – this

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modification negatively impacts of the perceived naturalness of the coastal environment. Habitat Value: Diverse and clearly defined matrix of indigenous forest descending into rocky outcrops and sandy beaches. Natural Processes: Strongly expressed coastal processes are evident in the dramatic interface between the line of cliffs, enclosed beach areas, and the Pacific Ocean. The clear pattern and structure of the landforms is positively reinforced by vegetation patterns. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The absence of development / modification, amalgam of sculpted landforms, windswept and remnant coastal forest / shrub land, the dynamic and obvious natural processes at play along the coastline impart a sense of remoteness and wildness. Experiential Attributes: The coastal environment incorporates an iconic amalgam of natural elements, coastal features and processes that have a high degree of cohesion, structure, and patterning, as well as considerable diversity. The prominent forested landforms enclosing Cathedral – Gemstone Bay create a sense of intimacy, devoid of human activity. Context / Setting: Part of a broader sequence of distinctive ignimbrite rock features along the coastline. The majority of the headland south of the vegetated escarpment is highly modified. The majority of this modification remains peripheral to the dominant natural elements, patterns, and processes at play within the coastal environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between this landform and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures within.

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Mahunga Island Group

Outstanding

Landforms: Assemblage of offshore island landforms comprised primarily of volcanic rock which rises sharply from surface of the sea. Bare rock escarpments / headlands / slopes & islets characterise the islands coastal edge.

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Vegetation type, Cover & Patterns: Small pockets of windswept remnant indigenous shrubland & bush cling to the tops and slopes of the Islands while the more exposed cliffs and escarpments remain bare. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open waters of the Pacific Ocean and Mercury provide a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or structures exist or are apparent on the Islands. Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered cliffs and craggy rock formations reveal their underlying geology along with and windswept indigenous vegetation are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The unmodified state of these islands together with the sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of coastal processes while their exposed position and atmospheric conditions at the entry to Mercury Bay heighten the remote, raw and wild character of the islands. Experiential Attributes: Completely unmodified rocky islands with a character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity. Their sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and heighten the sense of coastal exposure. Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean and Mercury Bay provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of island landform, exposed slopes and open waters of the Pacific Ocean including variation resulting from weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Night-time Values: A very high degree of naturalness is derived from the islands distance away from nearby settlement at Hahei.

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72

Herehere Point to Pupuha Point Coastline

High

Landforms: This character area forms an eastward facing ribbon of coast encompassing the slopes up to the crest of the first coastal ridge or the inland extent of vegetated coastal escarpments. The landforms comprise a coherent sequence of rhyolite headlands, promontories, escarpments, bluffs, rocky outcrops and islands that interface with the sea in a highly sculpted coastline – sheer cliffs up to some 100m asl jut prominently into the sea and flank a series of coves and stony/ boulder bays. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The cliff tops are largely dominated by pasture above cliff faces with a fringe of indigenous coastal cliff forest, or treeland on the cliff edges and clinging to the upper margins. The boundaries of the HNC area are focussed on these escarpment faces. The SNA within this HNC area exists predominantly within the Te Pupuha Recreation Reserve which consists of primary cliffland pohutukawa treeland with secondary forest and scrubland and emergent pines scattered throughout. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The sheer sea cliffs rise abruptly from the sea, maintaining a direct and highly expressive interaction with the Pacific Ocean and providing a dramatic setting that clearly defines the coastal landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: While the character area is largely free of built development, there is an unsealed access way and buildings on Te Pupuha Point. Elsewhere, the cliff tops are dominated by open farmed pasture extending inland beyond the character area boundaries and encompassing other dwellings and some pine forestry. While this modified land cover and land use impacts the perceived naturalness of the coastal environment, particularly at Te Pupuha Point, the intact and landforms remain dominant elements within the coastal environment. On the point, development is noticeable but largely within or alongside vegetation, helping to absorb impacts. Habitat Value: The primary ecological values are associated with the cliff communities. The cliff edge habitat with indigenous remnant forest descending into rocky outcrops are ranked as being regionally significant. Natural Processes: The coastal environment incorporates an amalgam of natural elements, coastal features and processes that have a high degree of cohesion, structure, and patterning. Coastal processes are evident in the dramatic interface between the sculpted coastline of tall cliffs, eroded islands and the Pacific Ocean. The rugged features are highly expressive of underlying geology and the clear sequence and structure of the exposed landforms is positively reinforced by vegetation patterns. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The highly legible, sculpted outcrops and elevated cliff landforms, indigenous vegetation and consistent

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weathering and patterning from coastal exposure impart a sense of remoteness and wildness despite the adjacent farmland, pine trees, and proximity to the settlement of Hahei. Development on Te Pupuha Point noticeably reduces the sense of wilderness however the surrounding vegetation ensures impacts are localised and the natural patterns and processes remain dominant. Experiential Attributes: The abrupt relief of the landform and high level of coastal exposure create an impressive coastline of sheer cliffs, rocky outcrops and islands, characteristic of a rugged coastal environment and imparting a high level of sensory and experiential attributes. The height of the landforms and complex coastline encloses several coves which create a sense of intimacy, devoid of human activity. Context / Setting: Te Pare headland and Sarahs Hill (116m asl) physically and visually separate the character area from the extensive settlement at Hahei. To the south, much of the coastal hinterland behind the cliffs is a broad plateau which has been cleared and is in pasture and pine forestry. Scattered residential properties and associated roads, buildings and plantings are set back from the headlands and orientated towards the ocean. This modification negatively impacts on the naturalness of the coastal environment’s margins. However within the HNC area itself, the height and sharp pitch of the landforms and complex coastline delineate a distinct character area characterised by its landscape/seascape interface and largely unsuitable for human activity. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The elevated cliffs, escarpments and islands in this character area convey transient and dynamic attributes associated with their direct exposure to and engagement with the sea. These include coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric and light conditions, and windswept vegetation which combine to create a dynamic interplay between this landform and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived throughout most of the character area due to the limited exposure to lights. Lights from the cliff top development has the potential to impact on the coastal margins however the height and sharp descent of the coastal orientated slopes, and the presence of vegetation reduces the degree to which they intrude. Summary/ Key Attributes: The character area comprises a sequence of sheer cliff landforms and escarpments from the sea up to the crest of the coastal ridge or the inland extent of the vegetated coastal escarpment. While the cliff tops are dominated by open pasture, dwellings and pine forest, within the character area the cliff faces are home to a fringe of indigenous coastal cliff treeland.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact, highly sculpted coastline and sheer cliffs. 2. The rare cliffland vegetation communities.

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3. The extent of modification along the cliff tops and on the headland at Te Pupuha Point, negatively impacts on the naturalness of the character area’s margins so that the wildness, experiential and dynamic attributes associated with the HNC area are sensitive to increasing density of further development.

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Orua Bay to Hot Water Beach

High

Landforms: The northern end of this character area is a continuation of the complex eastward facing coastline where the character area boundaries with the high natural character rating are focused on the sequence of cliffs. The landforms comprise a distinctive progression of rhyolite headlands, promontories, escarpments, bluffs and rocky outcrops. This ribbon of cliffs and coves leads into Hotwater Beach – an expansive sandy ocean beach and dune system with stream corridors at each end. The northern stream inlet encompasses a restored wetland while a prominent knoll/headland is a distinctive feature marking the southern end of the beach. A modified basin and escarpment off Domain Road adjacent to the southern headland and behind the dunes is excluded from the HNC area. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The cliff tops inland from the character area are largely dominated by pasture and some tracts of pines. Much of the cliff slopes are covered in indigenous coastal shrubland with remnant pohutukawa and wilding pines. While this northern section is not mapped as an SNA, the Hotwater Beach dunes and beach system are identified as nationally significant SNAs consisting of muehlenbeckia, spinifex and pingao dune grasses. At the southern end of the beach, modified lower slopes are flanked by two headlands wrapped in primary coastal forest. The intervening basin/escarpment is covered in pasture and gorse with a large gravel carpark and access road, creating a visual and physical separation and as such has been excluded from the wider HNC area. In contrast, the headland areas provide a rare coastal sequence from protected dunes and stream up into primary coastal forest. The legibility of the headland and dune features are reinforced by the vegetation cover and patterns. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The varied terrain of the coastline from sheer exposed cliffs and coves to gentle sloping beach and dunes, maintains a direct and highly expressive interaction with the Pacific Ocean and a dramatic setting that defines the coastal landscape. The Huruhurutakimo Stream salt marsh environment and river mouth impart a strong sense of naturalness and connection to the wider seascape. This is due to the highly evident coastal processes including the dynamic interplay between hot water beach, the stream flow and the sea’s tidal fluctuations.

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Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There are no apparent buildings and structures. Open pasture, pine plantations and scattered dwellings modify the cliff tops adjacent to the northern end of the character area. This modification impacts on the perceived naturalness of the coastal margins however the intact elevated cliffs and rock features remain dominant elements within the coastal environment. At the southern end of the HNC area, a basin and escarpment behind the dunes is highly modified by a large gravel carpark and access road. The location and scale of modification within the basin physically and visually separates it from the wider HNC area. Habitat Value: The character area provides a diverse range of habitat types ranging from cliff edge habitat with indigenous remnant forest descending into rocky outcrops to the expansive sand dune system backing Hot Water Beach. The beach is an important breeding site for NZ dotterel. The forest remnants at the southern end of the beach provide a rare coastal sequence from protected dunes and a stream up into primary coastal forest. Natural Processes: Coastal processes are evident in the dramatic interface between the line of sheer sculpted cliffs and the Pacific Ocean. The coastal features are highly expressive of underlying geology and the clear pattern and structure of both the cliffs and dune features is positively reinforced by vegetation patterns. The hot springs, streams, inlets and wetland also support hydrological processes as well as maintaining ecological networks from stream and dunes to primary forest. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The distinct eroded cliff landforms, indigenous vegetation and consistent weathering and patterning from coastal exposure, elevated dune sequence impart a sense of wildness. The limitied modification within the character area amplifies the sense of remoteness despite the proximity of scattered nearby houses, pine forestry and a small section of road. Experiential Attributes: The presence of natural thermal hot springs accessible two hours either side of low tide, tidal processes, atmospheric conditions, times of day/year and presence of wading birds, all express the highly dynamic natural processes at play in this environment. Context / Setting: Much of the coastal hinterland behind the cliffs and beach has been cleared and are in pasture with some pine forestry. There are scattered residential properties and associated roads, buildings and plantings set back from the headlands and beach. The little settlement of Hot Water Beach is situated across the stream from the headland marking the southern end of the character area. This modification negatively impacts on the naturalness of the coastal margins. However within the HNC area itself,

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particularly along the cliffline, the legible, often complex terrain creates a distinct character area characterised by its landscape/seascape interface that limits the impact. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The clifflands, weltlands and dune formations reflect a dynamic interplay between land and sea evident in the coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation. Other transient attributes are associated with the stream flows and the presence of seasonal fauna such as the NZ Dotterel. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived throughout most of the character area due to the limited exposure to lights. Lights from the adjacent clifftop and beachside development have the potential to impact on the coastal margins however the varied terrain and the presence of vegetation reduces the degree to which they intrude. Summary / Key Attributes: A ribbon of sea cliffs and indented coves leads into Hotwater Beach. The stream inlet at the north end of the beach encompasses a restored wetland while the southern end is marked by a prominent knoll/headland. A modified basin and escarpment adjacent to the southern headland is excluded from the HNC area.

Key attributes that are sensitive to change within this High Natural Character area include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact cliff landforms. 2. The fragile dune and beach system 3. The small primary coastal forest remnant at the southern end of the beach providing a rare

coastal sequence from protected dunes and a stream up into primary coastal forest. 4. The wetland and hydrological systems at the stream mouth and beach interface. 5. Immediately behind the character area, the pastoral land behind the cliffs and beach, pine

forestry, scattered residential properties and associated roads and car parking, including the little settlement of Hot Water Beach negatively impacts on the naturalness of the coastal margins so that the natural processes, wildness, and experiential attributes in particular are highly sensitive to the encroachment of further development.

74

Southern Hot Water Beach Coastline

High

Landforms: The character area encompasses the coastal slopes of andesite foothills rising to some 220m asl between Hot Water Beach and Tapuaetahi. Along the coast it comprises a sequence of escarpments, rocky points and shoals separating stony bays. The topography is moderate to steeply sloping above the shoreline, stepping back to a plateau through the mid slopes before rising abruptly to the summit and ridgeline. The areas of pasture reveal exposed rock in places.

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Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: The character area is predominantly covered in remnant and regenerating indigenous coastal forest and shrubland, interspersed by areas of pasture. Cliffland, rocky shoreline and outcrop communities grade into the Tapuaetahi Coastal Forest SNA. This SNA comprises several fragments grading from pohutukawa clifflands to mature coastal forest, terminating near Te Puia pa at approximately 240m asl. It contains nationally under-represented forest and despite being fragmented and interspersed by pastureland and treeland habitats of lesser ecological value the forest remains of national ecological significance. The escarpment immediately south of Hot Water Beach includes fragments of primary pohutukawa and secondary coastal forest of local significance. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The steep coastal escarpment and rocky shoreline is highly expressive of the interaction with the Pacific Ocean providing a dramatic setting that defines the coastal landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: There are a small number of buildings and structures with access tracks scattered within the character area but the scale of development is very limited. Overall, the extent of built form and patches of pasture remain subservient to the coherent landform and the interplay of the hill slopes, shoreline and Pacific Ocean. Habitat Value: A diverse range of habitat types is provided with indigenous remnant forest descending into rocky outcrops. Cliffland, rocky shoreline and outcrop systems dominate this HNC area providing habitat for several nationally At Risk and Threatened plants and animals and forming important linkages to other ecologically significant natural areas in the locality. Natural Processes: Strongly expressed coastal processes are evident in the sequence from elevated coastal slopes to escarpment, rocky shoreline and the Pacific Ocean. The clear pattern and structure of the coastal foothills is positively reinforced by the vegetation patterns. While the landcover of mid slopes is predominately pasture, overall there is a strong degree of interaction between the continuous fringe of pohutukawa, mid and upper pastoral slopes, rocky shoreline, and the sea. This is amplified by the exposed rock revealed in the areas of pasture. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of remnant forest and prominent rocky coastal features imbue this landscape with a strong sense of naturalness, remoteness and wildness. While the small coastal settlement of Hot Water Beach is nearby, the character area is orientated away from it and relatively isolated from human activity. The small number of buildings within the character area are isolated from one another and set in a vegetated context so that as a whole, the character area would rate highly in terms of wildness.

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Experiential Attributes: The coastal outlook and orientation of the elevated coastal escarpment, slopes and valleys falling to the sea, along with the craggy weathered coastal edge results in a dramatic and cohesive coastal landscape abutting the Pacific Ocean. Context / Setting: The character area extends from the southern arm sheltering Hot Water Beach, south to a ridge below Tapuaetahi (277m asl). It forms part of a broader sequence of coastal hill country extending south through to Otara Bay. The eastward facing slopes descend rapidly to a plateau across the mid slopes before another moderate to steep drop to the sea where they form a continuous sequence of stony bays and rocky outcrops. Orientated to the Pacific Ocean, they are highly exposed and impart a sense of isolation despite proximity to Hot Water Beach settlement. The forest fragments connect to the forested backslopes, and the wider forest-flanked hills southward, further enhancing the naturalness of the landscape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: The sequence of forest and treeland cover from elevated ridgeline to shoreline provides a range of transient and dynamic attributes that vary with different seasons, times of the day and weather patterns. Attributes include those associated with the seasonal presence of animals and changes in the remnant and regenerating bush, as well as coastal erosion, wave action, and fluctuations in tide. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights given the few number of dwellings and structures within the character area. Proximity to Hot Water Beach will have minimal effect on night-time values. Summary and Key Attributes The slopes of this HNC area step down to the coastline from an elevated, bush clad ridgeline. While the gentle mid slopes are predominantly in pasture, there is still a strong physical and visual connection from sea to summit. The areas of pasture reveal exposed rock in places, and include scattered pohutukawa forming important linkages between the fringe of pohutukawa clifflands along the shoreline and the mature coastal forest above. Key attributes that are sensitive to change include [for consideration of future works]:

1. The intact seaward facing lower escarpment 2. The pohutukawa and coastal forest fragments provide important ecological stepping stones

within the character area and the wider context. 3. Although the forest is fragmented by pastureland, it includes scattered treeland habitat so that

the cohesive structure of the coastal foothills remains legible and there is a strong degree of interaction between sea and summit.

4. The low level of built form so that it is the high level of natural patterns and processes present that clearly characterise this area.

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75

Tapuaatahi to Otara Bay Coastline

Outstanding

Landforms: Extensive sequence of coastal hill country focusing around peaks of Tapuaetahi (277asl) and Kohungahunga (270asl), with steep escarpments and rocky outcrops points, islands and bluffs, as well as a several sandy beaches. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Contiguous cover of remnant and regenerating indigenous coastal forest giving way to coastal shrub land on more exposed slopes and extending to the shoreline. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Rocky exposed eastern coastline has a strong interaction with the Pacific Ocean. A number of streams and tributaries drain this hill country, running along the base of the deep valleys and gullies to the coast. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of buildings and structures. Very small patches of pasture are subservient to the interplay of coastal landform, coastal forest and the Pacific Ocean. Habitat Value: Diverse and expansive habitat ranging from forested gullies and ridges descending into rocky outcrops and expansive beach areas. Natural Processes: Rugged coastal environment highly expressive of the interplay between the rocky coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Windswept vegetation and coastal erosion on steeper slopes and outcrops further reinforces the dynamic natural process at play. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of raw landforms, remnant forest, prominent rocky coastal features and the landscapes isolation imbue this landscape with a strong sense of naturalness, remoteness and wildness. Experiential Attributes: Exceptionally dramatic, dynamic distinctive landscape. Highly atmospheric qualities due to isolation and dominance of natural attributes – wild remote qualities strongly expressed. Context / Setting: Part of a broader sequence of l hill country extending further west. Remains buffered from settlement to the south and west. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation

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combine to create a dynamic interplay between this landform and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures within.

76

Sailors Grave/ Pumpkin Hill North Tairua Coastline

High

Landforms: Extensive sequence of coastal foothills, headlands, escarpments, coves, rocky outcrops and the sandy bead at Te Karo Bay. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Contiguous cover of remnant and regenerating indigenous coastal forest giving way to coastal shrub land on more exposed slopes and extending to the shoreline. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Rocky exposed eastern coastline has a strong interaction with the Pacific Ocean. A number of streams and tributaries drain from the coastal slopes, running along the base of the deep valleys and gullies to the coast. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Coastal forest is interspersed with sporadic house sites which affect the physical and perceived naturalness of the coastal environment, but given their separation from one another and integration amongst bush remain relatively subservient to natural elements patterns and processes. Habitat Value: Diverse and expansive habitat ranging from forested gullies and ridges descending into rocky outcrops and beach areas. Natural Processes: Rugged coastal environment highly expressive of the interplay between the rocky coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Windswept vegetation and coastal erosion on steeper slopes and outcrops further reinforces the dynamic natural process at play. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of raw landforms, remnant forest, prominent rocky coastal features and the landscapes isolation imbue this landscape with a sense of remoteness and wildness despite the presence of scattered housing. Experiential Attributes: Clearly articulated sequence of ridge and valley topography combined with forest remnants and natural coastal margins to create a very clearly structured and patterned coastal environment with a strong

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endemic signature. Context / Setting: Part of a broader sequence of l hill country extending up to Pumpkin Hill and further north to Kohungahunga. Presence of forestry and housing atop of Pumpkin Hill affects the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between this landform and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: Lighting from dwellings off Sailors Grave Road and Pumpkin Hill negatively impact on the degree of naturalness within the coastal environment.

77

Ohui to Wharekawa Harbour Coastline

High

Landforms: Expansive ocean beach & holocene dune (Opoutere Beach) with distal spit and rocky island feature (Hikunui Island) flanking the narrow entrance to Wharekawa Harbour. Includes a prominent headland (Ruahiwihiwi Point) to the south characterised by highly weathered cliffs and rocky shoreline. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Spinifex and pingao dune grasses cover the vast majority of the foredune while some exotic dune species are apparent. Indigenous wetland occupies the inner margins of Wharekawa harbour near the entrance to Wahitapu Stream. Remnant pohutukawa line the margins of Ruahiwihiwi Point. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The Ohui Stream breaches the dune cover towards the northern end of the Beach while the tidal flow of the Wharekawa Harbour bounds the southern end of the Beach. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of buildings and structures. Habitat Value: Highly valued avifauna habitat on distal spit and inner margins of Wharekawa Harbour. Natural Processes: Strongly expressed coastal processes are evident in the dramatic interface between the beach and dune corridor, distal spit, craggy headland flanking the entrance to Wharekawa Harbour and the tidal flow of the Harbour itself.

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Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: Extensive beach, elevated foredune and separation from rural hinterland and housing by tall pine forest impart a sense of remoteness and wildness. Experiential Attributes: Despite the presence of the forestry backing the length of the beach, a high level of naturalness is derived from a combination of its natural elements, the dynamic natural process along the beach and its relative remoteness and wildness, further accentuated by extensive length of the Beach. Context / Setting: Nearly all of the coastal hinterland behind the beach has been cleared and is in pasture and pine forestry. A number of residential properties and associated roads, buildings are setback behind an extensive line of pine trees which abuts the beaches foredune - this modification negatively impact of the naturalness of the coastal environments margins. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between this landform and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from limited exposure to lights within the character area given the absence of dwellings and structures within.

78

North Onemana Coastline

High

Landforms: Very pronounced sequence of headlands, promontories, sheer cliffs and escarpments, rocky outcrops, and sandy beaches backed by elevated dune systems. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Mature sculptured pine forest dominates the cliff tops while remnant Pohutukawa dominated indigenous coastal forest and shrub land occupied more exposed slopes. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Sheer cliffs, headlands, and rocky shoreline has a strong interaction with the Pacific Ocean. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of building and structures. Land cover is dominated by senescent pine forest however the predominance of the steep cliffs and bluffs, presence of jagged rocky outcrops and islands gives this stretch of coast a strong sense of cohesion and character area. Habitat Value: Cliff edge habitat descending into rocky outcrops and beach / dune areas.

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Natural Processes: Rugged coastal environment highly expressive of the interplay between sheer cliffs, rocky coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Windswept vegetation and coastal erosion on steeper slopes and outcrops further reinforces the dynamic natural process at play. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of raw landforms, remnant forest, prominent rocky coastal features and the landscapes isolation imbue this landscape with a sense of remoteness and wildness despite the presence of pine forestry. Experiential Attributes: Clearly articulated and dramatic sequence of cliffs and rocky shoreline combined with the highly weathered and raw face of the cliff landform impart a high degree of naturalness. Context / Setting: Sculptured pine forest within the character area is part of a broader active area of pine forestry which negatively impacts on the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between this landform and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: Limited lighting due to pine forest atop of the cliffs. Nearby settlement at Onemana starts to affects the degree of naturalness within the coastal environment.

79

South Onemana to Te Ananui Point Coastline

High

Landforms: Very pronounced sequence of headlands, promontories, sheer cliffs and escarpments, rocky outcrops and islands, interspersed by extensive sandy beaches and dune systems. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Remnant indigenous pohutukawa dominant coastal forest cover much of the coastal slopes and promontories descending to the coastal edge, interspersed with small patches of pasture. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Remnant indigenous pohutukawa dominant coastal forest cover much of the coastal slopes and promontories descending to the coastal edge, interspersed with small patches of pasture. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of building and structures – incorporates patches of open pasture along the upper margins of the coastal environment.

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Habitat Value: Cliff edge habitat descending into rocky outcrops and beach / dune roosting areas. Natural Processes: Rugged coastal environment highly expressive of the interplay between a varied amalgam of landforms including sheer cliffs, rocky coastline, beaches and the Pacific Ocean. Windswept vegetation and coastal erosion on steeper slopes and outcrops further reinforces the dynamic natural process at play. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of raw landforms, remnant forest, prominent rocky coastal features and the landscapes isolation imbue this landscape with a sense of remoteness and wildness despite the presence of nearby housing. Experiential Attributes: Clearly articulated and dramatic sequence of cliffs, beach areas and rocky shoreline combined with the highly weathered and raw face of the cliff landform impart a high degree of naturalness. Context / Setting: Close proximity to small number of scattered housing and broader areas of pasture to the west negatively impacts on the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between this landform and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: Lighting from nearby dwelling starts to affect the degree of naturalness within the coastal environment.

80

Northern Whangamata Harbour Coastline

High

Landforms: Extensive steep narrow harbour escarpment (just over 2.5km in length) and rock bluffs flanking the western edge and entrance of Whangamata Harbour– includes the immediate intertidal harbour flats, sandbanks and channels. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Contiguous remnant indigenous coastal forest cover descending to salt marsh & mangroves. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Continuous steep escarpment and bluffs have a strong interaction with the tidal margins and cyclic action of the Whangmata harbour.

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Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or built developments are present within this character area. Habitat Value: Sequence of mature and regenerating indigenous coastal forest to tidal estuarine environment. Natural Processes: Columns of exposed rock devoid of vegetation are visible on steeper slopes of the escarpment illustrates erosion of underlying bedrock material of the peninsula combined with the immediate cyclical and ever changing harbour environment is highly expressive of natural coastal processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of raw exposed landforms, continuous coastal forest and direct connections with the estuarine margins of the harbour imbue this landscape with a sense of remoteness and wildness despite the presence of nearby housing. Experiential Attributes: Clearly articulated and dramatic escarpment sequence and its interaction with the harbours tidal flats impart a high degree of naturalness. Context / Setting: The crest of the escarpment adjacent to the character area consists of exotic forestry which is visible in parts rising above indigenous forest – this negatively affects the perceived naturalness of the coastal environment as a whole. Proximity of moorings within the harbour channel, while very apparent, are subservient to the natural landform and patterns of the escarpment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of land and harbour including variation resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day / year, tide and wildlife. Wading and sea birds prevalent. Night-time Values: Absence of dwellings and lighting imbue the coastal environment with a sense of naturalness.

81

North-eastern Side of the Otahu River

High

Landforms: Steep vegetated slopes overlook the Otahu River estuarine environment – includes the immediate intertidal harbour flats, sandbanks and channels. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Isolated patch of indigenous vegetation covers the hill slope giving way to pasture and wilding pines in places.

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Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The landform has strong interaction with the tidal margins and cyclic action of the Otahu River estuary. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of buildings and structures; although presence of wilding pines and nearby development impacts on the intactness of the coastal environment. Habitat Value: A sequence of regenerating indigenous coastal forest to tidal estuarine environment. Natural Processes: Steep vegetated slopes combined with the immediate cyclical and ever changing harbour environment is highly expressive of natural coastal processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of indigenous vegetation and direct connection with the estuarine margins of the River imbue this landscape with a sense of remoteness and wildness despite the presence of nearby development. Experiential Attributes: The landforms interaction with the harbours tidal flats impart a high degree of naturalness. Context / Setting: Isolation from indigenous forest and proximity to development negatively affects the perceived naturalness of the coastal environment as a whole. Outlook over the wider intertidal flats of the Otahu River add to an overall sense of naturalness. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of land and harbour including variation resulting from atmospheric conditions, time of day / year, tide and wildlife. Wading and sea birds prevalent. Night-time Values: Absence of dwellings and lighting imbue the coastal environment with a sense of naturalness.

82

Great Mercury Island

High

Landforms: Very pronounced sequence of headlands, promontories, sheer cliffs and escarpments, rocky outcrops interspersed with coves, sandy beaches and dune systems around the southern coastline of Great Mercury Island. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Remnant and regenerating indigenous coastal forest cover with patches of open pasture.

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Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: Sheer cliffs, promontories, rocky shoreline, and beaches have a strong interaction with the open waters of the Pacific Ocean. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of building and structures – incorporates patches of open pasture along the margins of the coastal environment. Habitat Value: Diverse ranges of habitat including mature and regenerating indigenous coastal forest connected to cliffs, rocky outcrops and beach / dune roosting areas. Natural Processes: Dramatic interface between the Islands sheer cliff faces, steep and shallow coastal escarpments, enclosed sandy beaches, and the Pacific Ocean are expressive of coastal processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The combination of raw landforms, remnant forest, prominent rocky coastal features and the landscapes isolation imbue this landscape with a sense of remoteness and wildness despite the presence of production forest behind. Experiential Attributes: Exposed and rugged coastal environment with clearly articulated sequence of coastal slopes, beach areas and rocky shoreline, absence of buildings and structures impart a strong sense of naturalness. Context / Setting: Character area is backed by production pine forest & pasture which affects the perceived intactness of the coastal environment. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between the sequence of landforms and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: Absence of dwellings and lighting reinforce the perceive intactness of the coastal environment.

83

Mercury Island Group (Excluding Great Mercury)

Outstanding

Landforms: Assemblage of highly weathered offshore island landforms comprised primarily of basalt which rises sharply from surface of the sea. Bare rock escarpments / headlands / slopes & islets characterise the islands coastal edge.

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Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Windswept remnant indigenous shrubland & bush cling to the tops and slopes of the Islands while the more exposed cliffs and escarpments remain bare. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open waters of the Pacific Ocean provide a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or structures exist or are apparent on the Islands. Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered cliffs and craggy rock formations reveal their underlying geology along with and windswept indigenous vegetation are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The unmodified state of these islands together with the sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of coastal processes while their exposed position and atmospheric conditions within the open expanse of the Pacific Ocean heighten the remote, raw and wild character of the islands. Experiential Attributes: Completely unmodified rocky islands with a character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity. Their sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and heighten the sense of coastal exposure. Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between these landforms and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: A very high degree of naturalness is derived from the islands isolation from human activities or structures.

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84

Shoe Island (Motuhoa)

Outstanding

Landforms: Offshore island landform comprised primarily of rhyolite which rises sharply from surface of the sea. Bare rock escarpments / headlands / slopes & islets characterise the islands coastal edge. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Uniform coverage of windswept remnant indigenous shrubland & bush cling to the tops and slopes of the Island while the more exposed cliffs and escarpments remain bare. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open waters of the Pacific Ocean provide a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or structures exist or are apparent on the Islands. Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered cliffs and craggy rock formations reveal their underlying geology and along with windswept indigenous vegetation are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The unmodified state of these islands together with the sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of coastal processes while their exposed position and atmospheric conditions within the open expanse of the Pacific Ocean heighten the remote, raw and wild character of the islands. Experiential Attributes: Completely unmodified rocky islands with a character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity. Their sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and heighten the sense of coastal exposure. Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean and Mercury Bay provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of island landform, exposed slopes and open waters of the Pacific Ocean including variation resulting from weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Night-time Values: A very high degree of naturalness is derived from the islands isolation from human activities or

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structures.

85

Rabbit Island, Penguin Island and Watchman Rock

Outstanding

Landforms: Offshore island landforms comprised primarily of andesite which rises sharply from surface of the sea. Bare rock escarpments / headlands / slopes & islets characterise the islands coastal edge. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Uniform coverage of windswept remnant indigenous shrubland & bush cling to the tops and slopes of the Islands while the more exposed cliffs and escarpments remain bare. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open waters of the Pacific Ocean provide a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or structures exist or are apparent on the Islands. Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered cliffs and craggy rock formations reveal their underlying geology and along with windswept indigenous vegetation are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The unmodified state of these islands together with the sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of coastal processes while their exposed position and atmospheric conditions within the open expanse of the Pacific Ocean heighten the remote, raw and wild character of the islands. Experiential Attributes: Completely unmodified rocky islands with a character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity. Their sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and heighten the sense of coastal exposure. Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape – strong connection with larger profile of Slipper Island. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of island landform, exposed slopes and open waters of the Pacific Ocean including variation resulting from weather and light conditions, time of year / day.

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Night-time Values: A very high degree of naturalness is derived from the islands isolation from human activities or structures.

86

Slipper Island (Whakahau)

High

Landforms: Prominent sequence of exposed andesite escarpments, headlands, slopes & islets which rises sharply from surface of the sea and characterise the eastern and south margins of Slipper Island. Vegetation Type, Cover & Patterns: Windswept remnant indigenous shrubland & bush cling to the exposed cliffs and escarpments of the Island including patches of open pasture while the more exposed cliffs and bluff remain bare Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open waters of the Pacific Ocean provide a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: Devoid of building and structures – apparent pastoral landuse extending to the coastal edge in places. Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered cliffs and craggy rock formations which reveal their underlying geology along with and windswept indigenous vegetation are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The raw and rugged rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of coastal processes while their exposed position and atmospheric conditions within the open expanse of the Pacific Ocean heighten the remote and wild character of the islands eastern coastline. Experiential Attributes: Exposed rugged character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity despite the presence of adjoin farmland. Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape – strong connection with Penguin and Rabbit Island to the south. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Interplay of island landform, exposed slopes and open waters of the Pacific Ocean including variation

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resulting from weather and light conditions, time of year / day. Night-time Values: A high degree of naturalness is derived from the character areas absence of buildings and structures – proximity of dwelling to the west affects the perceived natural ness of the adjoining coastal environment.

87

The Alderman Island Group

Outstanding

Landforms: Assemblage of highly weathered offshore island landforms comprised primarily of volcanic rock which rise very sharply from surface of the sea. Bare rock escarpments / headlands / slopes & islets characterise the islands coastal edge. Vegetation type, Cover & Patterns: Uniform coverage of windswept remnant indigenous shrubland & bush which cling to the tops and slopes of the Islands while the more exposed cliffs and escarpments remain bare. Sea / Estuarine Water Bodies: The open waters of the Pacific Ocean provide a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Land Uses / Activities / Structure: No human activities or structures exist or are apparent on the Islands. Habitat Value: Provides significant habitat due to sequence of coastal habitat types and isolation from mainland. Natural Processes: Exposed highly weathered cliffs and craggy rock formations reveal their underlying geology along with and windswept indigenous vegetation are expressive of the landscapes formative processes. Wildness / Wilderness / Remoteness: The unmodified state of these islands together with the sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and expressive of coastal processes while their exposed position and atmospheric conditions within the open expanse of the Pacific Ocean heighten the remote, raw and wild character of the islands. Experiential Attributes: Completely unmodified rocky islands with a character that expresses both natural processes and evokes a strong sense of being divorced from human activity. Their sculpted rocky landforms and battered vegetation are both highly dramatic and heighten the sense of coastal exposure.

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Context / Setting: The open surface of the Pacific Ocean provides a dramatic setting and defines the island landscape. Transient / Dynamic Attributes: Coastal erosion, tidal processes, seasonal change, atmospheric conditions, and windswept vegetation combine to create a dynamic interplay between these landforms and the Pacific Ocean. Night-time Values: A very high degree of naturalness is derived from the islands isolation from human activities or structures.

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