IEMP 1 to 21

Iwi Environmental Management Plan
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Mutunga - Protecting the environment for future generations through kaitiakitanga
MISSION
The mission of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Mutunga is –
Promoting understanding of Ngāti Mutunga values and responsibilities in our rohe;
Protecting the environment for future generations; and
Demonstrating Ngāti Mutungatanga through our role as kaitiaki
Ngāti Mutunga have the same fundamental goal as other environmental management agencies – which is to provide for sustainable management of the environment for the social, cultural, economic, and environmental well-being of our iwi, the wider community, now and into the future. However, we may have different perspectives on what this means and how it should be achieved.
Giving effect to this relationship and shared goals is best achieved through partnership. This may take a variety of forms, but should be underpinned by the following concepts, set out in the Memorandum of Understanding between Ngāti Mutunga and the New Plymouth District Council –
The parties have honesty of purpose towards building enduring and trusting relationships
The parties will treat each other with mutual respect in the same manner by which they themselves wish to be treated
The parties recognise the mandate and authority of the other party and will not enter into any other agreement or contract which has the potential to undermine that authority
the parties will communicate with each other on important matters affecting the other in a timely manner
The parties recognise that although they may have differing philosophical approaches and values, they will act in good faith towards one another
The parties maintain confidentiality of commercially or culturally sensitive information
Ngāti Mutunga expect agencies to –
recognise that the Ngāti Mutunga Chairperson has the same mana and should engage directly with Mayors and Ministers
engage with Ngāti Mutunga through the office of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Mutunga
support us by talking to us about issues of mutual interest, providing expert advice when needed and explaining issues or scientific information in a way that can be understood by iwi members
retain and refer to information already provided, including this plan, before engaging with us. This saves everyone's time
be informed about tikanga Māori and protocol, especially if they are coming on to the Marae
respond to all correspondence from Ngāti Mutunga within a reasonable time
follow-up any engagement with Ngāti Mutunga and demonstrate how Ngāti Mutunga submissions or input contributed to the final decision, policy or plan
monitor the use and effectiveness of the plan, and report back to Ngāti Mutunga on how they have implemented the plan
work together to lighten the load on iwi and share information as appropriate
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thanks to the Iwi Environmental Management Plan committee:
Jamie Tuuta
Hurimoana Haami
Rena Kettle
Kere Wallace
Tammy Oxenham
for working so hard to pull this plan together.
Thanks to Dyanna Jolly and Craig Pauling for reviewing the plan, and Miriama Evans and Dion Tuuta for editing it.
Thanks to Toka Walden, Phil Mohi, and Jenny Stevens from Department of Conservation (DoC) for providing information on the role and function of DoC, conservation values in our rohe and descriptions of DoC administrated land in the rohe (which have been included in Appendix 4).
Thank you to Aroha Chamberlain, Rowan Williams, Mitchell Dyer, Erina Parsons and Lauren O'Byrne from New Plymouth District Council (NPDC), Fred McLay, Colin McLellan and Gray Severinson from Taranaki Regional Council (TRC), Samuel Tamarapa from the Ministry of Fisheries and Amos Kamo from NZ Historic Places Trust for providing information on the role and function of their organisations IMP.
Thanks to the Department of Conservation, the New Plymouth District Council, the New Zealand Historic Places trust and the Taranaki Regional Council for reviewing the factual information contained in the plan.
Thank you to George and John Bertrand and Stephen McClutchie for sharing their ideas about issues and policies to include in this plan, and to Graham Duckett for sharing his knowledge of the history of our rohe.
Thanks also to the Taranaki Regional Council for printing draft copies of the plan for distribution to iwi members.
Above all thank you to Raewyn Solomon, Chris Rosenbrock and Te Ao Marama for agreeing to let us use Te Poha o Tohu Raumati, Kai Tahu ki Otakou Natural Resource Management Plan and Te Tangi a Tauira as reference material. The Ngāi Tahu plans provided us with thinking and talking points, and were an excellent model for this plan.
INDEX
INTRODUCTION
7
AIR AND ATMOSPHERE
13
Air Quality - 14
Light, Odour, Noise and Visual Pollution - 16
Climate Change - 17
Energy - 19
INDEX (continued)
WHENUA NGÀHERE/BUSHLAND
22
Bushland Ecosystems - 24
Biodiversity - 24
Bioprospecting - 25
Mahinga Kai - 27
Species Recovery - 29
Pest Management - 33
1080 (Sodium Flouroacetate) - 34
Land Use and Development - 36
Vegetation Clearance and Burning - 36
Forestry - 38
Mining and Prospecting - 40
Infrastructure - 42
Management of Department of Conservation Lands - 43
Concessions - 45
Cultural Interpretation - 46
Mounga Taranaki - 47
Wāhi Tapu - 49
INDEX (continued)
TE PUNA WAIORA/FRESHWATER
50
Rivers and Streams - 56
Water Quantity - 57
Water Quality - 59
Wetlands - 63
Riparian Zones - 64
Riverbeds - 67
Access to Waterways - 68
Mahinga Kai - 68
WHENUA MĀNIA/PLAINS
72
Erosion - 73
Soil Degradation and Land Management - 74
Mahinga Kai - 74
Biodiversity - 76
Pests - 76
Natural and Amenity Features - 78
Natural Hazards - 79
Significant Natural Areas - 80
Waste - 81
Hazardous Substances and New Organisms - 82
Subdivision, Development and Changing Land Use - 84
Earthworks - 86
Stock and Transport - 87
Forestry - 81
INDEX (continued)
TAKUTAI/COAST
91
The Land, Beach and Seabed - 94
Land Use and Development - 94
Structures in the Coastal Marine Area - 96
Coastal Access and Campgrounds - 97
Coastal Mining and Extraction Activities - 99
Off Shore Petroleum Exploration - 100
Coastal Water Quality and Use - 101
Coastal Ecosystems - 104
Biodiversity - 105
Mahinga Kai - 106
Customary Fishing - 107
Commercial Fishing - 107
Recreational Fishing - 110
Aquaculture - 111
Management Areas - 112
Marine Birds - 113
Marine Mammals - 115
Wāhi Tapu - 115
CULTURAL LANDSCAPES AND WĀHI TAPU
117
Cultural Landscapes - 118
Our Wāhi Tapu Sites – History and Surveys
Policy and Rules for Wāhi Tapu - 124
Protecting Cultural Landscapes - 126
Wāhi Tapu and Sites of Significance - 127
Artefacts and Koiwi - 1312
INDEX (continued)
IMPLEMENTATION
134
Effective Participation - 135
Working Together - 135
Partnership - 136
Consultation - 136
Engagement Tools - 139
Regional and District Council Processes - 142
Plan Review and Monitoring - 148
APPENDICES
150
Appendix 1: Agencies and their Roles and Legislative Context - 151
Appendix 2: Conservation Values and Threats – DoC Land - 157
Appendix 3: Reserves Managed by DoC - 161
Appendix 4: DoC Conservation Activities and Conservation Values - 171
Appendix 5: Taonga Species - 177
Appendix 6: Pest Species - 193
Appendix 7: Accidental Discovery Protocol - 194
Appendix 8: Marine Mammal Protocol - 197
Appendix 9: Organisations Involved in Environmental Management - 199
Appendix 10: New Plymouth District Council Flow Charts - 203
INDEX (continued)
PROTOCOLS FROM NGĀTI MUTUNGA DEED OF SETTLEMENT
205
Appendix 11: Statutory Acknowledgements & Statements of Association from Deed of Settlement - 205
Appendix 12: Ngāti Mutunga Rohe & Claims Settlement Redress Sites - 206
Appendix 13: List of Contacts - 207
INTRODUCTION
ABOUT NGĀTI MUTUNGA
Prior to the arrival of tauiwi in Aotearoa, the Ngāti Mutunga iwi was an autonomous, independent and selfgoverning confederation of hapū, who exercised Tino Rangātiratanga over its traditional rohe.
Considerable migration occurred in the nineteenth century in which Ngāti Mutunga joined neighbouring or related groups to travel back and forth from Taranaki. This was not a single exodus, but several heke (migrations) over time mainly to the Wellington district and Wharekauri (Chatham Islands).
While the heke took place, small settlements of people throughout the rohe maintained ahi ka and were present on the return of the majority of the tribe in 1848 and 1868.
The traditional hapū no longer form distinct communities within the iwi. In more recent times, Ngāti Mutunga has interacted as a single tribal grouping which is today known as Ngāti Mutunga. The iwi today has around 1,700 members aged 18 and over, and several thousand under that age. Most are now resident outside of Taranaki.
The traditional rohe of Ngāti Mutunga is indelibly etched into both the physical and historical landscapes. The Tītoki ridge rising from the marine shelf in the northwest signals interface with Ngāti Tama.
From here, the Tītoki stream outlines the extremities of tupuna mana as far north as the Mangahia Stream from which an easterly direction is struck to Huanui, then northwest to Waitara-iti. The rohe then finds a natural eastern definition in the Waitara River as the river flows southward to the Poutiatoa precinct.
From here the border extends further south and then northwest along the Waitara River to a point where the river connects with the Makara Stream. The confines of mamawhenua are then traced in a northerly direction skirting slightly west of the Poukekewa, Poutotara and Pukemai streams.
The Mangahewa Stream provides an outline for the duration of the course to the coast. The old settlement of Te Rau o te Huia was bounded by the Waiau River and its remains mark the area of Ngāti Mutunga's southern boundary.
The area of the Ngāti Mutunga rohe described above was approximately 63,200 hectares (156,000 acres) according to a digital map calculation in 2003.
PURPOSE OF THE IWI ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT PLAN
The primary audience for this plan is iwi members. The Iwi Environmental Management Plan (IEMP) will codify our Ngāti Mutunga values and support and educate those stepping up to work on environmental issues. The IEMP will also protect those who are providing advice on Ngāti Mutunga's position to councils by providing them with a mandated set of policies on which to base their advice.
External agencies, particularly the Taranaki Regional Council, New Plymouth District Council and the Department of Conservation are the secondary audience for the plan. The IEMP should influence environmental management in our rohe and help agencies to identify ways to work more closely and effectively with Ngāti Mutunga. The IEMP has a legal effect under the Resource Management Act (RMA), as Councils must take into account iwi management plans when preparing plans under the RMA.
The community at large is the third target group for the IEMP. The IEMP will provide the community with information on our relationship with the whenua and provide context for our values and positions. We also hope that the IEMP will provide guidance to people wanting to carry out activities in our rohe and help them to design projects which are in line with our values and objectives.
HOW TO READ THIS PLAN
This plan is split into three parts.
Part 1
introduces Ngāti Mutunga, this plan and its kaupapa and provides guidance on how to use the plan.
Part 2
sets out ngā take (issues) and ngā kaupapa (policies) for resource management in the Ngāti Mutunga rohe.
Part 3
sets out how this plan should be used and implemented.
Part 4
provides extra information which supports ngā take and kaupapa set out in this plan.
For the purposes of this plan, ngā take are problems or issues which have an adverse impact on Ngāti Mutunga values. We expect those involved in resource management to include the take we have identified when identifying or prioritising issues to be managed or problems to be solved. Ngā take may exist now or be potential problems. Existing problems should be resolved in order to avoid damaging our values, and potential problems should be avoided.
For the purpose of this plan, ngā kaupapa (policies) are directions, actions or guidelines which should be followed in order to resolve issues in a way which is consistent with our values. We expect those involved in resource management to follow these policies in order to resolve the take identified in the plan.
HOW TO USE THIS PLAN
THE PLAN SUPPLEMENTS BUT DOES NOT REPLACE KANOHI KI TE KANOHI CONSULTATION WITH NGĀTI MUTUNGA
Ngāti Mutunga wants central and local government agencies involved in environmental management to use this plan to inform their day-to-day business. A guide to agencies who may wish to use the plan and their relevant functions are included in Appendices 1 and 9.
Ngāti Mutunga encourage agencies to use the plan to –
develop understanding of Ngāti Mutunga values and objectives
inform planning and policy development processes
identify issues of mutual interest and potential areas for joint advocacy or action
indicate areas where agencies can work with Ngāti Mutunga to carry out projects or functions for example environmental monitoring
indicate when and how to engage with Ngāti Mutunga on environmental issues or decisions, including when to consult with us or when to include us as an affected party for an application for resource consent
inform plan and policy review processes this plan may highlight policies or plans which need to be reviewed in order to achieve the objectives of Ngāti Mutunga
indicate what submissions for Ngāti Mutunga are likely to contain
identify conditions which should be imposed on resource consents
gauge how well current plans and policies meet our objectives and values
provide guidance to applicants for resource consent or other interested parties
use this implementation chapter as a template for Memorandums of Understanding, Protocols or similar documents
This list is not exhaustive. Agencies are encouraged to use the information in the plan in whatever way helps them to provide for Ngāti Mutunga interests in environmental management and uphold our objectives.
In order to make the best use of the plan, we recommend that-
All relevant staff are informed of the plan and know how and when to use it
Any new staff are provided training on how to use the plan as part of their induction
Copies of the plan are made available to staff electronically as well as in hard copy
Internal process guides include information on when staff should refer to the plan and when staff should engage directly with iwi. These could be included in Memoranda of Understanding or Protocols, and must be developed in consultation with Ngāti Mutunga
Upon receiving the plan, agencies review their policies and plans and assess how these compare to Ngāti Mutunga issues and policies, with a view to prioritising review
Agencies encourage applicants for resource consent or concessions within or impacting on our rohe to refer to the plan when designing projects. This should not replace kanohi ki te kanohi consultation with Ngāti Mutunga
Staff read and understand the contents of the plan before meeting with Ngāti Mutunga, so that they have a good basic understanding on which to base engagement
Writing the plan is only one step in improving our engagement in environmental management. Ngāti Mutunga will also need to work hard to maintain the momentum we have gained and relationships developed through the plan writing process.
In order to implement this plan and achieve our objectives, Ngāti Mutunga will –
Continue to develop meaningful and enduring relationships with relevant local and central government agencies
Continue to develop and implement Memoranda of Understanding with relevant agencies
Continue to develop our capacity to engage on environmental issues
Encourage our rangitahi to take an interest in the environment and pursue studies in relevant fields
Work with relevant agencies to implement the plan
Look for opportunities to involve our people in work carried out by local and central government, such as monitoring and enforcement
Work with our people to develop our understanding of environmental issues
Work with other iwi groups on issues of mutual interest
Review the plan as appropriate
Participate in planning and decision making processes
Seek out and support new and innovative ways of doing things in order to reduce our impact on the environment
Work with other agencies to share ideas and information
Participate in iwi forums, reference groups and/or other advisory bodies
provide Cultural Impact Assessments where requested by councils or for resource consent
EXPLANATION OF POLICY TERMS
To Oppose
An activity or action that must not occur
To Require
An action or activity that must be carried out by another organisation
To Promote
The action or activity will be endorsed by Ngāti Mutunga. We will work in collaboration with other agencies to promote Ngāti Mutunga values associated with this action or activity
To Encourage
An action or activity, to be carried out by other agencies, which is supported by Ngāti Mutunga
To Discourage
An action or activity which is generally not supported by Ngāti Mutunga
To Identify
An action or activity which we will work independently or in collaboration with other agencies to carry out
To Support
An action, activity, policy or rule which is already in place and is encouraged by Ngāti Mutunga. We encourage implementation, and in some cases, intensification of these actions, activities, policies and rules by other agencies
Avoid, Remedy or Mitigate
Ngāti Mutunga notes that the RMA, and policies and plans developed under the RMA, require that people "avoid, remedy or mitigate" where appropriate adverse impacts of their activities on the environment.
We, as Ngāti Mutunga think that it is much better to avoid an adverse effect than reduce its impact or fix up the problem later. We strongly encourage Councils and other bodies operating under the RMA to require that people avoid adverse effects on the environment and any sites of cultural significance to Ngāti Mutunga. We suggest that people should only be able to remedy or mitigate adverse effects if there is no way to avoid them.
OUTCOMES WE WANT TO ACHIEVE THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PLAN
Ngāti Mutunga aim to achieve the following outcomes through the implementation of this plan:
Kaitiakitanga, Tino Rangatiratanga and Treaty of Waitangi
Ngāti Mutunga is effectively involved in management and protection of natural resources
Agencies responsible for environmental management understand and respect the role, value and responsibilities of Ngāti Mutunga
Partnerships between Ngāti Mutunga and agencies responsible for environmental management are developed and enhanced
Agencies foster the capacity of Ngāti Mutunga to engage in environmental management, particularly decision making processes and planning
Ngāti Mutunga values become embedded in the planning documents and management practices of relevant agencies
Environment
Natural and physical resources are managed in an holistic and integrated way
The state of the natural environment is restored to a state which supports the values and customs of Ngāti Mutunga
The life supporting capacity of the environment is protected and supported
Ngāti Mutunga are actively involved in day-to-day management of the environment
Ngāti Mutunga capacity to engage on environmental issues and participate in activities such as environmental monitoring is enhanced
Social, Economic, Health and Well-being
All plans, policies, strategies, regulations, laws and other methods of environmental regulation or planning identify and avoid negative effects on the health and well-being of the Ngāti Mutunga community
Establish a sense of belonging and Kaitiakitanga amongst the whole community
The Kaitiakitanga tradition of Ngāti Mutunga is continued through the generations
AIR AND ATMOSPHERE
INTRODUCTION
It can be hard to see and understand the effects that some activities have on the air and atmosphere, but we should not let "out of sight" mean "out of mind". It is our role as kaitiaki to understand what is happening in our rohe so that we can ensure that every aspect of our environment is well managed.
CULTURAL VALUES
Ngāti Mutunga recognises that everything has a mauri, or life force, and all elements of our environment are interconnected. In order for our people to be healthy and happy, everything around them needs to be healthy too. Thus the quality of the air we breathe and the effects of increasing levels of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere directly affect our wellbeing.
OBJECTIVE
To seek better understanding of issues relating to the air and atmosphere so that we can perform our kaitiaki role and engage in the development of solutions to problems caused by climate change.
AIR QUALITY
Air quality in our rohe is generally good. While vehicle emissions, aerial spraying, sawmill operation, odours industries and activities associated with farming have adverse effects on air quality, these activities are limited in our area. There are no major industries discharging contaminants to the air in our rohe, although we note that pollutants discharged elsewhere may be blown into our area.
We are lucky that the winds in our rohe blow most pollutants away, so we do not suffer from smog. However, the wind must blow these pollutants somewhere. It is up to us to manage discharges to air in our rohe to make sure that they do not do harm to others elsewhere.
We should not take good air quality in our rohe for granted. It would be a shame to see New Zealand grappling with the types of problems and illnesses faced by countries with poor air quality.
"Whatever you send up into the air, it's got to come down somewhere!" Kere
OBJECTIVE
To ensure that a high standard of air quality is maintained in our rohe, for us and future generations.
NGĀ TAKE - ISSUES
Lack of engagement with Ngāti Mutunga on air quality issues
Discharges and poor air quality have an adverse effect on mahinga kai, taonga species, biodiversity and wāhi tapu, as well as on cultural values and wellbeing including effects on hinengaro (mind), wairua (spirit), mauri (life force), tinana (body)
Poor understanding of effects of discharges to air, leading to poor management
Poor management and use of hazardous chemicals, resulting in discharge of these chemicals to air
Spray drift, resulting in poisoning of non-target species, escape of toxins to rivers and impacts on human health
Burning of inappropriate materials, such as plastic, resulting in the release of toxins
Culturally offensive discharges, for example from crematoriums or hospitals
Increasing vehicle emissions leading to an increase in greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere
NGĀ KAUPAPA - POLICIES
Require councils and other agencies to provide opportunities for Ngāti Mutunga to engage in the development of local and national guidelines, standards, codes, policy statements or plans relating to air quality. This includes, for example, chemical use or application, discharge allowances and air quality standards. All such documents must provide for the Treaty of Waitangi and Sections 6, 7 and 8 of the Resource Management Act 1991.
Require engagement with Ngāti Mutunga when considering consents relating to discharge to air within our rohe
Encourage education programmes which increase awareness of mātauranga Māori, the interconnectedness of the environment and the cumulative impacts of discharges to air
Oppose discharges to air whose negative impacts cannot be mitigated by good environmental practice and new technologies
If discharges must be made, require that they avoid adverse effects on mahinga kai, taonga species, biodiversity and wāhi tapu, health and cultural values
Require councils to consider environmental and cultural values first and foremost when assessing applications for resource consent for discharges to air
Require council review of discharge consents after the first three years. The review should consider the environmental and cultural effects of the discharge and whether technological improvements have made it possible to manage this discharge in a better way. If technology has improved but not been adopted the consent holder should explain why he or she has not done so
NGĀ KAUPAPA - POLICIES (continued)
Require that consents for discharge to air last for a maximum of 10 years
The duration of any consent for discharge must recognise and provide for future conditions, including growth of industry or community
Require robust monitoring of discharge permits to assess the impact of discharge
Require meaningful action if conditions on discharge consents are not complied with
Encourage education of the community about air quality issues and the effects of poor air quality
Encourage the adoption of environmentally friendly use of wind power (i.e. wind farms) on a case by case basis.
Require monitoring of discharges to air and assess their environmental effects
Encourage the adoption of best practice for management of hazardous chemicals and application of spray
NGĀ KAUPAPA - POLICIES (continued)
Encourage promotion of alternatives to burning of waste material, including the adoption of new technologies
Encourage education programmes which explain the detrimental effects of burning materials, such as plastics, and encourage proper management of these materials
Encourage councils to reduce the need to burn waste by providing good waste services in the rohe
Encourage and provide incentives for the adoption of new technologies which reduce adverse effects of activities on air quality
Discourage the establishment of crematoriums in the Ngāti Mutunga rohe. If a crematorium must be established it should not be located within 500 metres of sites of significance to Ngāti Mutunga
Encourage initiatives to reduce emissions from motor vehicles, including the adoption of new technologies and incentives to reduce use of motor vehicles
Require notification and the correct use of signage for all activities such as spraying of chemicals to enable people to protect themselves from spray drift or other hazards.
Encourage Ngāti Mutunga as an iwi and as individuals to show leadership in the development and use of sustainable technologies in our marae, homes and businesses.
LIGHT, ODOUR, NOISE AND VISUAL POLLUTION
Our rohe is, on the whole, a quiet, peaceful place to live. We enjoy being able to see the stars at night and have fresh, odour free air to breathe.
Development which includes inappropriate artificial lighting, strong smells, noisy activities and visual pollution would make our environment less pleasant to live in. It is important to manage these issues because they affect our feelings about and relationship with a place. If we do not feel good about the places we live, work and see every day, we do not feel good within ourselves.
OBJECTIVE
To ensure that light, smells, noise and visual pollution do not reach levels which have an adverse impact on our people or environment.
NGĀ TAKE - ISSUES
Odour from farms, particularly chicken, pig and worm farms
Potential for increasing levels of noise pollution
Potential for visual intrusion from too much light
Visual and amenity effects of ugly or inappropriate buildings
NGĀ KAUPAPA - POLICIES
Encourage councils to restrict the establishment of odorous industries in the rohe
Oppose the establishment of smelly industries on or near wāhi tapu, marae and any papakainga developments.
Require monitoring of odour from industries and ensure that they comply with existing standards and are not having an adverse effect on those living near them
Encourage the adoption of measures to reduce odour, including new technologies
Require restriction of the establishment of noisy activities in the rohe in order to preserve it's quiet, rural nature
Encourage restrictions on the installation of artificial lighting. Light should not reach levels which alter the rural nature of the rohe, or make it difficult to see the stars at night
NGĀ KAUPAPA - POLICIES (continued)
Require engagement with Ngāti Mutunga on decision making relating to the development, design and location of structures which can be seen from sites of significance to Ngāti Mutunga
Support consent conditions such as planting native trees to screen large or obtrusive buildings
Support policies which provide for and maintain low density development similar to that already present in the rohe
Encourage the use of colours and building design which are in harmony with the surrounding environment
Discourage large scale and imposing development that intrudes on the natural character and visual amenities associated with the rural environment
Identify viewshafts that are of importance to Ngāti Mutunga and apply for them to be protected under the NPDC District Plan (Draft Policy on Viewshafts – Community Environment, NPDC Draft District Plan 2018 – Policy VS P2
CLIMATE CHANGE
As our world gets warmer, many things change. Polar ice is melting, causing sea level rise. Weather patterns are changing, often resulting in more extreme weather events such as storms and cyclones. The Taranaki Regional Council provided the following information on the impacts of climate change in the Taranaki Region -
At a regional level, research indicates that, over the next 70-100 years, Taranaki's temperatures could be up to 3°C warmer, the climate could be up to 20% wetter with more varied rainfall patterns, and flooding is likely to become more frequent and severe. The effects of climate change are manifold and likely to impose significant costs on the community. Global warming is expected to lead to a rise in the average sea level due to the thermal expansion of ocean water and melting of glacial and polar ice. Rising sea levels and more extreme weather events may increase coastal erosion, threaten vulnerable beaches and low-lying areas, and increase the need for coastal protection measures. In rural areas, if extreme events such as floods and droughts become more severe and frequent, costs to farmers associated with dealing with stock losses, increased soil erosion and damage and disruptions to farm operations would be expected to increase. A wetter climate may also increase pugging of pasture and cropping soils during winter. Hotter summer days could also increase competition for water uses in some areas between agricultural irrigation and domestic and industrial uses during drier periods. Generally warmer temperatures could further facilitate the spread of some pests, diseases and lower feed-quality sub-tropical grasses such as kikuyu grass. There may also be some benefits for agriculture and forestry through improved plant growth because of longer growing seasons and rising carbon dioxide levels and the potential for new crops and associated industries to move into new areas. In urban areas, heavier rainfall will put added pressure on drainage and storm water systems and increase flooding risks in some areas. Housing areas near river banks and lake shores are likely to become more prone to floods. Roading infrastructure might need more maintenance work and new structures such as bridges may need to accommodate higher flood peaks in their design
Climate change can adversely affect ecosystems including those with conservation and biodiversity values. The public health effects of climate change include warmer winters that might alleviate cold-related illnesses and death, and hotter summers that might cause heat stress and promote the spread of subtropical diseases and their vectors. Some greenhouse gas emissions are also indirectly contributing to ozone depletion, which results in increased ultraviolet radiation and increased risk of skin cancer. 1.
Māori see the world as a unified system in which all elements are linked. Climate change validates this perspective – we can see that changes to one part of the system may affect many other parts.
Many of the effects of climate change will directly affect Ngāti Mutunga values.
As storms become more frequent and powerful and sea level rises, we will see increasing coastal erosion. This erosion endangers many sites of significance and may make it harder for us to access mahinga kai.
Changes in temperature and weather patterns will threaten indigenous species, including taonga and mahinga kai species. Some scientists predict that increasing levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere will make sea water slightly more acidic. More acidic sea water will make it harder for shellfish to make and repair their shells and affect their ability to grow and breed. This could include kai species such as Kūtai/Kuku (mussels), pipi and tuangi (cockles) and may cause a drop in their populations. This will also affect species that eat shellfish, although scientists are not sure exactly what the effects will be. Indigenous plants and animals may not be able to live in their current habitats any more. Because much of their habitat is already damaged and fragmented, it may be hard for these species to move to more suitable areas.
Indigenous plants and animals may also be threatened by predators and pests which are able to outcompete them or invade new areas as environmental conditions change. We have already lost much of our indigenous biodiversity through land confiscation, clearing and the introduction of pest species. Further losses will have significant cultural, social and economic impacts.
1 Taranaki Regional Council, Regional Policy Statement for Taranaki 2017 update (accessed March 2019)
Ngāti Mutunga acknowledges that a concerted effort on behalf of all people is needed to minimize and manage the effects of climate change. We support the protection of cultural, spiritual and environmental values while providing for the wise use and development of resources. It is our role as kaitiaki to ensure that the world we pass on to our mokopuna is in good condition. It is too late to prevent climate change; we can already see some of the changes. Now we must balance the need to develop with the need to limit further emissions of greenhouse gasses and adapt to our changing environment.
OBJECTIVE
To:-
educate our people on the potential effects of climate change
support and encourage initiatives which reduce greenhouse gas emissions while providing for the wise use and development of resources
work with other groups to adapt to the changing climate.
NGĀ TAKE – ISSUES
Greenhouse gas emissions, particularly increasing vehicle emissions and intensive farming practices contribute to climate change. The effects of climate change, for example rising sea levels and increasing storms, may damage sites of significance, including wāhi tapu
Climate change may have an adverse effect on mahinga kai, particularly seafood, and make it harder for us to live from the land
We do not have a good understanding of the causes and effects of climate change and how we can play a part in reducing the effects of climate change, which makes it harder for people to take action on this issue
Science relating to climate change needs to include the Māori world view
Climate change and policy responses to the issue may increase existing disparities for Māori
We do not have a good understanding of how climate change and policy responses may affect Māori
Alternative energy sources may be available
Climate change policy may have a negative impact on indigenous biodiversity by encouraging people to plant exotic species rather than indigenous species
NGĀ KAUPAPA - POLICIES
Encourage and support the development of regional and local programmes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in consultation or partnership with Ngāti Mutunga
Identify ways in which the Rūnanga and Marae could reduce emissions of greenhouse gases and to support our people in their kaitiaki role by encouraging reduction of greenhouse gas emissions
Encourage the adoption and development of best practice and new technologies which reduce the emission of greenhouse gasses
Encourage and support research into the impacts of climate change on indigenous species and food chains, particularly fish. Require any reports on these impacts within our rohe to be distributed to Ngāti Mutunga
Encourage communication within and between communities to share ideas about how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and manage the effects of climate change
Encourage education programmes which explain global environmental processes, climate change, its effects on the community and what we can do to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Encourage and support the involvement of Māori people and mātauranga (traditional Māori knowledge) in research on issues related to climate change
NGĀ KAUPAPA - POLICIES (continued)
Require consideration of the effects of climate change policy on all aspects of Māori communities, including economic, health, housing and governance and ensure that existing problems are not made worse
Encourage consultation with Ngāti Mutunga on the effects and adoption of new technologies, and capacity building for the Ngāti Mutunga Rūnanga and people, to enable them to participate in the development of programmes which reduce greenhouse gas emissions
Encourage all national, regional and local policies or programmes relating to climate change to provide for the Māori world view and principles of the Treaty of Waitangi
Encourage and engage in the development of national, regional and local responses to climate change. Such programmes should not limit, remove or restrict future options for development of Ngāti Mutunga assets or resources or ability to exercise Kaitiakitanga
Identify ways to participate in planning to adapt to the changing climate
Encourage the adoption of alternative energy sources provided they do not have an adverse effect on indigenous biodiversity or cultural values
Require that all national, regional and local policies or programmes relating to climate change avoid adverse effects on indigenous biodiversity and support the regeneration of indigenous forests
Support any proposed legislation that is in line with these objectives and policies – eg Proposed Zero Carbon Bill 2018.
Oppose any activities that involve the extraction or use of fossil fuels.
ENERGY
There are two aspects to energy –
The effects of generating energy; and
The effects of using energy.
The Taranaki region generates energy from both renewable and non-renewable sources. Renewable sources of energy, such as sunshine, wind and water, come from natural sources that do not get used up or run out. Nonrenewable sources of energy include coal, oil and gas. These resources get used up in the generation process and are in limited supply. Use of these fuels will also emit greenhouse gasses.
Any method of generating energy on a large scale may have environmental and cultural effects. The use of nonrenewable energy sources may be inefficient, unsustainable, result in environmental destruction and contribute to climate change. Generating energy from renewable sources may be more environmentally friendly because it does not emit as much greenhouse gas, but, as with any form of development, it can have cultural and environmental effects such as changes to river systems and loss of natural landscapes.
New Zealand's demand for energy is increasing. This may lead to an increase in development for energy generation and increasing environmental and cultural effects. These issues can be managed by encouraging wise and efficient use of energy and promoting the use and development of small scale renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
The installation of equipment used for energy generation will involve earthworks. This section should be read alongside the section on Earthworks, set out in the Plains chapter on page 86.
OBJECTIVE
To provide for development while managing the adverse effects of the generation and use of energy.
NGĀ TAKE – ISSUES
Potential for development and use of new renewable sources
Potential for adverse impacts of energy generation on indigenous species, cultural values and the environment
Scale of energy generation
Demand for energy is increasing, leading to the development of more energy generation schemes
NGĀ KAUPAPA - POLICIES
Encourage the development of renewable energy in preference to non-renewable energy. Encourage the use of mātauranga Māori and the involvement of Māori researchers in investigations into this mahi
Encourage research into more efficient or environmentally friendly ways to generate electricity
Oppose the use of nuclear generators within the rohe and throughout Aotearoa
Require agencies of the Crown to recognise and provide for the right of Ngāti Mutunga to develop resources, including renewable energy resources
Require assessment of all applications to develop new electricity generation schemes to include consideration of potential effects on indigenous biodiversity, sites of significance and cultural values
Prohibit the installation of power generation machinery on or near wāhi tapu or sites of significance e.g. wind turbines
Require any new development to provide for continuous access of Ngāti Mutunga to sites of significance
Encourage councils to ensure that the scale and location of any new energy development does not unreasonably detract from the natural landscape and character of the area
Require Ngāti Mutunga participation in processing and application for resource consent for new energy development within the rohe. Engagement should include a kanohi ki te kanohi meeting to discuss the proposal, pictures of the proposed structures and locations as well as an explanation of the proposal in plain English so that Ngāti Mutunga can fully understand and assess the application
Identify ways to reduce energy use at the Marae and Rūnanga office, possibly through an energy strategy
Encourage education programmes which raise awareness about why and how to conserve energy
Encourage and promote programmes which make it easier for our people to adopt energy efficient measures, such a subsidised home insulation
Encourage efficient use of existing infrastructure and the adoption of new technologies which improve efficiency
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