update to the draft porirua landscape evaluation (draft ... · 2.1 a draft evaluation of the...

Land.People.Culture.Isthmus.

Porirua City CouncilDraft Landscape Evaluation 2019Update to the Draft Porirua Landscape Evaluation (Draft Technical Assessment) prepared for Porirua City in June 2018.

2 September 2019 —

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Isthmus.Document record

Issue Revision Author QA Date

Draft 4 RA LR 2 September 2019

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Contents.

1.0 Executive Summary 4

2.0 Background 7

3.0 Addendum Report #1: Summary 8

4.0 Draft Porirua Landscape Evaluation 2019 11

5.0 Further work recommended- prior to notification 14

6.0 Porirua Draft ONF/SAL 15

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1.0 Executive Summary

1.1 Porirua City Council (PCC) is carrying out a review of landscape areas identified in its District Plan, as part of a District Plan review, to progress to a notified Plan Change.

1.2 This report is an addendum to the draft 2018 Porirua Landscape Evaluation1, (which identified draft Outstanding Natural Features (ONFs) and Special Amenity Landscapes (SALs) in Porirua), following further landscape evaluation work completed by Isthmus Group (Isthmus) and input from mana whenua to address shared and recognised values to tangata whenua.

1.3 Consultation with district-wide landowners was not included in the scope of works, due to time constraints.

1.4 This report incorporates updated landscape values for tangata whenua, and confirms or adjusts Isthmus Group’s preliminary recommendations2 on Porirua’s landscape areas. This follows further desktop analysis and site work to publicly accessible areas, discussions with required landowners and developers, and feedback and input received from mana whenua and the council Plan Change team.

1.5 The summarised tangata whenua landscape values provided in this report have been drawn from more detailed information reviewed by mana whenua, and recognise the Porirua district’s extensive and multi-layered history for Ngāti Toa Rangatira (mana whenua), and for other Māori, in terms of both historical and on-going connections and associations with the land. Mana whenua may make adjustments to the summaries of values in this report, due to time constraints in reviewing the summaries before notification of the Draft District Plan.

1.6 The body of this report sets out recommended:

• Adjustments to draft ONFL (Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes) and SAL boundariesidentified in 2018;

• Updates to summaries of values and characteristics for each draft ONFL and SAL area; • Further work recommended for completion prior to the statutory Plan Change notification.

1.7 In addition to boundary adjustments, the key recommendations and updates are as follows:

• That Te Awarua o Porirua/Porirua Harbour should be recognised within the Porirua District Plan asimportant and integrated landscape/harbour context for the Pauatahanui Inlet, Whitireia and Rangituhi/Takapūwāhia SALs. While the Coastal Marine Area (CMA) is outside Porirua’s jurisdiction, inclusion ofthe harbour arms (Pauatahanui Inlet and Onepoto) as contextual components of the SALs will recognisetangata whenua values; will acknowledge how people perceive these landscapes; and will provide for

1 Porirua Landscape Evaluation, Draft Technical Assessment completed for Porirua City Council; Boffa Miskell Ltd; June 2018.

2 Porirua Landscape Evaluation Addendum Report Issue #1; IGL, 29 March 2019

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integrated management of the land/water relationship. This cross boundary approach has been tested through the statutory process and adopted in other district plans such as the Tauranga City Plan;

• That the Pikarere Southern Escarpment (on the south-western coastal boundary of the district) beidentified as draft ONFL. This escarpment forms part of a prominent and distinctive coastal landform- most of which is identified as ONF in a draft (2017) Wellington City landscape evaluation. Whenconsidered as part of the wider landform, and taking into account cross boundary matters, the area isassessed as an ONFL.

1.8 An overview map of draft ONFL and SAL areas identified and recommended in the Isthmus evaluation is set out on the following page.

1.9 A more detailed map for each draft ONFL and SAL area is provided in Appendix A, with recommended boundary changes mapped, and key values and characteristics for each area, (identified in draft form in 2018), reviewed and updated by Isthmus. GIS shape files of the recommended changes have also been issued to council.

1.10 A description of the recommended boundary updates for each ONFL and SAL are set out in the tables in the body of this report.

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Can n on sCreekRi dge

Pau atah an u i

Kakah o

Hongoeka/Wai raka

Rangitu h i /Takapūwāhia

B el m on t H i l l s

Ru ku tan e /Ti tah i B ay

Te Rewarewa

Wh i ti rei aPen i n su l a

M an a I sl an d

Tau po Swam p

Paekakar i kiE scarpm en t

P i karereSou th ernE scarpm en t

Pau atah an u iI n l e t Co n t e x t

OnepotoContext

Sources: Esri, Airbus DS, USGS, NGA, NASA, CGIAR, N Robinson, NCEAS, NLS, OS, NMA, Geodatastyrelsen, Rijkswaterstaat, GSA, Geoland, FEMA, Intermap and the GIS user community, Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Overview ONFL: SAL (Draft, 2019)

Legend.

Draft SALs

Draft ONFLs

City Extent

Draft Harbour Context- Onepoto

Draft Harbour Context- Pauatahanui Inlet

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2.0 Background

2.1 A draft evaluation of the Porirua district’s landscapes was carried out in 2018 by Boffa Miskell Limited, to identify Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes (ONFLs) and Special Amenity Landscapes (SALs). These were documented in a Draft Technical Assessment Report1 (the 2018 Landscape Evaluation).

2.2 In 2019 Isthmus Group Limited (Isthmus) was engaged by Porirua City Council (PCC) to carry out the next stages of landscape assessment work. This comprised a review of the 2018 Landscape Evaluation, engagement with mana whenua, a small number of landowners (as required) and the council Plan Change team. Advice on Structure Plan development inside draft SAL, and policy response advice to Plan Change lodgement were progressed as separate briefs (and are not addressed in this report).

2.3 In March 2019 Isthmus issued a draft Addendum Report #1 to the 2018 Porirua Landscape Evaluation, following a review of the 2018 Evaluation, and desk-top research to better understand values to tangata whenua in ONFL and SAL areas in Porirua (an information gap recognised by the 2018 Landscape Evaluation). Preliminary recommendations were made to adjust a number of landscape area boundaries, to better capture key factors that contribute ONFL and SAL values, based on best practice assessment methodology.

2.4 This report confirms or adjusts Isthmus Group’s preliminary recommendations2, following further desktop analysis, additional site visits to publicly accessible areas, and input on Isthmus’ preliminary recommendations from mana whenua and the council Plan Change team.

2.5 It also incorporates updated tangata whenua landscape values for each ONFL and SAL area, following further input from mana whenua.

2.6 Summarised key tangata whenua landscape values included in this report have been drawn from more detailed information reviewed and confirmed by mana whenua3, and recognise the Porirua district’s extensive and multi-layered history for Ngāti Toa Rangatira (mana whenua), and for other Māori, in terms of both historical and on-going connections and associations with the land. Mana whenua may make adjustments to the summaries of values included in this report, due to time constraints in reviewing the summaries before notification of the Draft District Plan.

2.7 Recommendations for identified landscape areas, set out in the body of this report, should be read in conjunction with the maps and summaries of key values and characteristics, included in Appendix A.

2.8 Isthmus has provided input to policy response for ONFL and SAL areas, documented in a series of memos, and

1 Porirua Landscape Evaluation, Draft Technical Assessment completed for Porirua City Council; Boffa Miskell Ltd; June 2018.2 As also set out (as possible at time of issue) in IGL Addendum Report #2, 30 July 2019. (Timing of Addendum Report #2 was required to coincide with work on the draft Landscape Chapter to the District Plan. At time of issue updated tangata whenua landscape values were not available, and so not incorporated into Addendum Report #2).3 Refer to Appendix B to this report.

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in a Management Recommendation Report (issued 10 July 2019). The Management Recommendation Report is not addressed in this report, as it focuses on likely threats to ONFL/SAL values, and recommended management measures to protect, maintain and/or enhance those values, rather than on the identification of ONFL and SAL areas and associated values.

3.0 Addendum Report #1: Summary

3.1 The Porirua Landscape Evaluation Addendum Report Issue #1 (29 March 2019, Isthmus Group), reviewed the 2018 Landscape Evaluation, provided further information on draft tangata whenua landscape values in Porirua, made a number of preliminary recommendations on the boundaries of draft ONFL and SAL areas, and identified a small number of additional candidate ONFL and SAL areas, for further review.

3.2 Tangata whenua landscape values, connections and associations

3.3 Identification of tangata whenua landscape values in Porirua was a recognised gap in the 2018 draft Landscape Evaluation, and a crucial part of identifying and confirming ONFL and SAL landscapes in the district. Key documents relating to tangata whenua were provided by council, and reviewed by Isthmus, to more fully identify potential values (for correction or confirmation by mana whenua). These included:

• Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Toa Rangatira Trust and The Crown – Deed of Settlement of Historical Claims; • Greater Wellington Proposed Natural Resources Plan; • Porirua City Council District Plan Appendix Z1 Statutory Acknowledgement, Statements of Association

and Statements of Coastal Values; • Ngāti Toa Rangatira http://www.Ngātitoa.iwi.nz/

3.4 A draft “overview statement” of tangata whenua values, connections and associations with Porirua was provided for review by mana whenua in April 2019. This draft statement was intended to “set the scene” for summaries of values associated with each draft ONFL and SAL area. (The “draft overview statement” has since been amended, following provision of further important documents by mana whenua, and has been reviewed and confirmed by mana whenua. The updated draft statement is provided in Appendix B to this report).

3.5 Landscape Evaluation Methodology

3.6 Part 2 of Addendum Report #1 reviewed the landscape assessment methodology employed in the 2018 Landscape Evaluation. This review was necessary to confirm or amend the 2018 draft ONFL/SAL areas, to identify any further recommendations, and to prepare for further engagement and appropriate policy response.

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3.7 In its review Isthmus found that methodology employed for the 2018 Landscape Evaluation followed best practice guidance set out by the New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects (NZILA), and was generally consistent with the assessment framework provided in the Greater Wellington Regional Policy Statement (RPS).

3.8 Best practice methods to identify ONFL and SAL areas have been developed through accepted guidance, as set out and developed by the New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects’ Best Practice Guidance Note 10.1, case law decisions, and through detailed explanation and requirements provided in the RPS. NZILA best practice guidance for landscape evaluation recognises a need for an element of context specificity within each assessment approach, to allow evaluations to adapt to the particulars of each landscape context.

3.9 The core aspects of methodology and the tests required to identify ONFL and SAL are, however, generally accepted, and are as detailed in Policy 25 and 27 of the RPS.

3.10 In considering the 2018 Porirua Landscape Evaluation, Isthmus made a number of recommendations on methodology for the assessment of Porirua’s landscapes. These are set out in full in Addendum Issue #1, and are summarised as follows:

3.11 Thresholds for ONFL/SAL: Qualitative/Quantitative Approach

3.12 Isthmus recommends that an “overall” integrative approach be taken, rather than a quantative approach with rated factors4 used as tests for ONFL and SAL classification. This avoids reliance on a mathematical approach in the evaluation of landscapes, and recognises that the different components of a landscape are inter-related - landscapes are more than the sum of their “factors” and “value” parts. An integrative approach is recommended, in line with the RPS requirement for an overall evaluation, to consider whether or not the landscape or feature, as a whole and within the context of District, meets the qualitative tests required under the RPS.

3.13 In addition, the review identifies best practice guidance and generally accepted case law to include areas of forest and “naturalised” but non-indigenous vegetation, within ONFL areas of Porirua. Adopted ONFL in other Districts (of a comparative well-populated context), identify relatively modified landscapes with pasture, regenerating scrub and areas of exotic forestry to be where “natural components dominate over the influence of human activity”- as is required under the RPS. This was considered particularly relevant to Porirua, where exclusion of non indigenous cover would discount many areas in the Porirua district from being identified as an ONFL.

3.14 Defining Feature and Landscape Boundaries

3.15 The 2018 Landscape Evaluation used a range of techniques to define landscape area boundaries (such as catchment, land form and land cover). The 2018 Evaluation notes that there were several instances for which indigenous “landcover” is used as the primary rationale to extend or contract the ONF and SAL boundaries from

4 Where each assessment factor is scored on a 7 point scale, as included in the NZILA guidance

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a catchment or landform edges5, with the general approach being to exclude larger areas of managed exotic forest and other non-indigenous vegetation, and (conversely) to include areas of indigenous vegetation.

3.16 Isthmus’ recommended approach is to prioritise landform patterns in defining the edge of a landscape or feature, where this represents the logical physical extent of the factors that contribute to ONFL or SAL values. This approach is also considered to better inform landscape policy response, as distinct from Significant Natural Area management.

3.17 Landscapes and Features

3.18 The 2018 Evaluation identified relatively broad areas, for example within Whitirea Park, as ONF - that is, as a feature. Isthmus’ recommended approach would be to identify such broad areas as a Landscape. Best practice guidelines recognise features as clearly defined singular or discrete landforms, over a relatively small or narrow extent, such as an area of wetland or confined coastal escarpment or river gorge. Broad scale areas of headland, such as at Whitirea, that combine a wide range of coastal edge landforms from wetlands to escarpment, rocky and sandy shore environments, stream gulleys and gently sloped hills, better fit the definition of an area experienced as a landscape.

3.19 Noting that there is no distinct policy response required under the Resource Management Act 1991, the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement 2010 or the RPS, and assuming that there was no proposal to distinguish landscapes from feature in the District Plan Review, Addendum Issue #1 noted that the point of difference was essentially academic, and did not recommend further consideration of the matter. (Development of Landscape Chapter provisions since Addendum Issue #1 has taken the approach to define outstanding areas collectively, as “ONFL”. )

3.20 CMA Inclusion/exclusion

3.21 The 2018 evaluation omits consideration of Te Awarua o Porirua Harbour, as the Harbour (including Pauatahanui Inlet) are part of the Coastal Marine Area (CMA), and outside Porirua City Council’s jurisdiction6.

3.22 Isthmus recommended that Pautahanui Inlet, and the terrestrial areas surrounding it, should be considered as an entirety, which includes both land and water. Such an approach will acknowledge how people see and experience the area, as a harbour landscape combining tidal areas and a dramatic backdrop of hills. This approach should also assist integrated management and the requirements of Policy 6 and 15 of the RPS. In particular, it is our view that the landscape matters addressed in Policy 6 will not be adequately served by provisions required to manage identified SNA or Natural Character areas of the Inlet. (This recommendation has since been updated, as outlined below in section 4 of this report.)

5 Porirua Landscape Evaluation, Draft Technical Assessment completed for Porirua City Council; Boffa Miskell Ltd; June 2018; Appendix 1.6 RPS Policy 25 states that regional plans will identify outstanding natural features and landscapes in the coastal marine area and the beds of lakes and rivers; district plans will identify outstanding natural features and landscapes for all other land. RPS Policy 27 states that Regional plans may identify special amenity landscapes in the coastal marine area and the beds of lakes and rivers; district plans may identify special amenity landscapes for all other land.

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3.23 A detailed outline of the best practice assessment process used in the Isthmus review of the 2018 Landscape Evaluation was included as an appendix to Addendum Report #1.

3.24 Addendum Report #1 Key Recommendations

3.25 Isthmus Landscape Evaluation Addendum Report #1 made a number of recommendations on boundary adjustments to draft ONFL and SAL areas identified in the 2018 Landscape Evaluation, based on review of evaluation methodology, and to better capture ONFL/SAL values. These were set out in a series of indicative maps.

3.26 Further key recommendations were:

• Inclusion of Te Awarua o Porirua Harbour (Pauatahanui Inlet) inside the Pauatahanui SAL boundary,with further assessment work to identify and document inlet natural science, sensory and shared andrecognised values;

• Inclusion of the Pikarere (Southern Scarp) as a candidate ONF;

• Definition of the Ranui landform (at the southern gateway to the city) as a candidate SAL.

3.27 Pikarere (Southern Scarp) and Ranui were evaluated as part of the 2018 landscape assessment, but found not to meet the required thresholds for ONFL/SAL. The Pautahanui Inlet area was excluded on the basis that it sits outside PCC jurisdiction.

3.28 Isthmus’ preliminary recommendations were that the values of these areas, and the planning framework assumptions limiting their inclusion, warranted further review.

4.0 Draft Porirua Landscape Evaluation 2019

4.1 Following provision of Addendum Report #1 to council, Isthmus (with council) engagaed with mana whenua on draft ONFL and SAL areas/values; carried out further site work and engagement with required landowners/developers; and undertook further evaluative work with council planning experts and officers, on the preliminary recommendations for Porirua’s ONFL/SAL areas.

4.2 Updated Tangata whenua landscape values, connections and associations

4.3 Subsequent to Addendum Report #1 further important documents were made available to Isthmus by mana whenua for review. This brought to light further key (potential) tangata whenua landscape values in Porirua, and highlighted the long-standing complexity and importance of the area to Ngāti Toa Rangatira, and to other Māori, prior to the arrival of Toa Rangatira.

4.4 Potential tangata whenua landscape values were identified by Isthmus through review of the documents

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provided by council and Ngāti Toa Rangitira, and these were provided to mana whenua for review and amendment or confirmation.

4.5 Following this, summaries of tangata whenua values have been developed for each ONFL and SAL area, drawn from the more extensive information reviewed and confirmed by mana whenua. These have now been incorporated into the tables of wider landscape values associated with each ONFL and SAL area7.

4.6 Mana whenua may make adjustments to the summaries of tangata whenua landscape values in this report, due to time constraints in reviewing the summaries before notification of the Draft District Plan.

4.7 Updated ONFL/SAL Recommendations

4.8 The tables set out over the following pages show key recommendations, along with key findings and/or matters still to be clarified, for each draft ONFL and SAL in the Porirua District. The tables should be read alongside Appendix A, which includes maps of draft ONFL and SAL areas and recommended boundary adjustments (where recommended boundaries differ from the 2018 Landscape Evaluation); as well as summaries of key values and characteristics for each area (identified in 2018, and reviewed and edited by Isthmus across the RPS factors8).

4.9 Further to boundary changes, other key recommendations confirmed and/or adjusted from preliminary recommendations set out in Addendum Issue #1, are as follows:

4.10 Inclusion of Te Awarua o Porirua Harbour as CMA landscape/seascape context to Pauatahanui Inlet, Whitireia and Rangituhi/Takapūwāhia SALs

4.11 Isthmus considers that the two arms of Te Awarua o Porirua (Pauatahanui Inlet and the Onepoto arm) form integrated parts of the terrestrial areas surrounding them, and as such, should be included within landscape area boundaries in the District Plan. Landscape values in these areas relate to both land and water, and the integrated relationship between these components.

4.12 Initial views expressed by mana whenua have indicated that both arms of Te Awarua o Porirua hold very high value to tangata whenua, and that particular emphasis should not be placed on Pauatahanui Inlet alone.

4.13 The Onepoto arm of Te Awarua o Porirua provides seascape context for the important Porirua maunga Rangituhi and Whitireia, and is associated with the Takapūwāhia settlement.

4.14 Pauatahanui Inlet provides the integrated setting for the Pauatahanui and Kakaho SALs, and tangata whenua associations with the Inlet are long-standing and ongoing.

7 Refer to Appendix A.8 Natural science; sensory; shared and recognised.

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4.15 Together, both arms of Te Awarua o Porirua form a key area for tangata whenua - integral to Ngāti Toa’s association with Porirua.

4.16 Inclusion of the CMA context within landscape areas, as recommended, will recognise tangata whenua values, and will acknowledge how people see and experience the areas as harbour landscapes (combining tidal areas and dramatic/distinctive landform backdrops). It should also assist integrated management and the requirements of Policy 6 and 15 of the RPS. In particular, it is our view that the landscape matters addressed in Policy 6 will not be adequately served by provisions required to manage identified SNA or Natural Character areas of the Inlet. Inclusion of the CMA context within landscape boundaries will enable strengthened policy response in terms of effects on the harbour/inlet from surrounding terrestrial areas.

4.17 Further assessment work has been carried out to identify and document the natural science, sensory and shared and recognised values of the Inlet and the Onepoto arm of Te Awarua o Porirua, as contextual but integrated components of the adjacent SALs. These have been incorporated into the tables of values in Appendix A. However, due to time constraints leading up to the notification of the Draft District Plan, further work may be needed to finalise this assessment.

4.18 Inclusion of the Pikarere (Southern Escarpment) as an ONFL

4.19 This area was excluded in the 2018 Evaluation for technical reasons. (It was evaluated as not reaching the threshold for ONF as it did not score Very High in any of the landscape factors. It was also defined as a feature, so not at a scale to be considered as a SAL).

4.20 The area forms part of a prominent and distinctive escarpment - most of which was identified as ONF in a draft Wellington City landscape evaluation (2017). Isthmus considers that when considered holistically as part of the wider landform (i.e. without considering jurisdictional boundaries) it qualifies as ONFL.

4.21 The Pikarere (Southern Escarpment) is recommended as draft ONFL. Further assessment work is recommended to identify and document the natural science, sensory and shared and recognised values of this area, sufficient to inform the Plan Change.

4.22 Ranui landform (at the southern gateway to the city): SAL candidate

4.23 Values associated with this area (“gateway” and “landmark” values ; areas of high value indigenous vegetation; memorable and distinctive landform and vegetative components) are such that in Addendum IReport #1 Isthmus recommended further evaluation of the area as a candidate SAL.

4.24 While naturalness and other sensory values have been reduced by the inclusion of Transmission Gully, some of these effects are temporary given the mitigation planting being undertaken as part of the works and are not considered sufficient to detract from the area’s gateway qualities. Inclusion of a major road does not necessarily preclude an area from qualifying as an SAL. However, further evaluation has highlighted that, overall, the landscape values do not meet the tests required for the area to be identified as an SAL, as highly valued by the

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community. For example, and in contrast to Cannons Creek Ridge and Belmont Hills SALs , which have similar natural science and sensory values, the area does not contribute shared and recognised values resulting from association with Belmont Regional Park.

4.25 On balance, when considered overall, the Ranui landform is not recommended for inclusion as SAL

5.0 Further work recommended- prior to notification

5.1 Technical evaluation sheets

5.2 Isthmus has reviewed and edited draft key values and characteristics for each ONFL and SAL identified in the 2018 Porirua Landscape Evaluation (the value summaries) . This was to clarify values across the RPS factors, and refine descriptions, with repetition removed, and statements edited in line with the RPS sub-factors. This will provide greater consistency and alignment with best practice landscape evaluation methodology, and the RPS.

5.3 It is recommended that the full technical evaluation sheets (that provide greater detail on natural science, sensory and shared and recognised values) are now reviewed and amended, to align with changes made to summaries of values. In some cases descriptions of values have been moved between “factors” in the value summaries.

5.4 It will be important that the technical evaluation sheets align with the summarised ONFL and SAL values set out in the proposed District Plan. These sheets should be made available to those assessing effects on ONFL and SAL values, as they provide full details of values and characteristics. This will be particularly important in relation to tangata whenua values, as these are extensive for some ONFL and SAL areas, and are set out in full in the technical evaluation sheets.

5.5 Te Awarua o Porirua; Pikarere Southern Escarpment

5.6 Further assessment work may be required to identify and document the natural science, sensory and shared and recognised values of the Pauatahanui Inlet and the Onepoto arm of Te Awarua o Porirua, as contextual but integrated components of the adjacent SALs. Records to date are a preliminary assessment only, particularly for the Onepoto arm.

5.7 Further work is recommended to fully identify and document the natural science, sensory and shared and recognised values of the Pikarere Southern Escarpment, commensurate with the recommendation of its identification as an ONFL.

15Porirua Landscape Evaluation| PCC| September 2, 2019

6.0 Porirua Draft ONF/SAL (Refer to Appendix A for accompanying maps)Landscape Area Status Key Findings/Questions Remaining/Matters for Clarification Recommendations

Mana Island 2018: Draft ONF

2019: Draft ONFL

None No boundary change recommended.

Confirm or adjust tangata whenua summarised landscape values contained in this report, with mana whenua.

Edit landscape technical evaluation sheets, to align with updated summaries of key values and characteristics (reviewed by Isthmus in Appendix A to this report, for inclusion in Appendix to the proposed Landscape Chapter).

(Technical evaluation sheets should be made available to those carrying out assessment of effects on ONFL/SAL values, as they provide full details on values and characteristics, further to those summarised in the District Plan).

Taupo Swamp 2018: Draft ONF

2019: Draft ONFL

None Boundary adjustment recommended: Inclusion of Te Ara Harakeke Pathway within the Taupo Swamp SAL.

Te Ara Harakeke, the pedestrian and cycle path, is recognised within the shared and recognised values for the ONFL, and is part of the ONFL landscape (as differentiated from the SNA).




Whitireia Peninsula 2018: Draft ONF

2019: Draft ONFL

Engagement with mana whenua on values associated with golf course land/Whitireia maunga may result in a redefined landscape boundary to recognise tangata whenua values.

Exclusion of golf course area is appropriate in terms of natural science and sensory factors, due to its values being significantly different (and lower) to those identified for the ONF.

Ridgetop/top of escarpment visual and natural character values may not be sufficiently protected by the 2018 Landscape Evaluation boundary.

Onepoto arm of Te Awarua o Porirua provides the CMA context for the Whitireia maunga. Landscape values relate to the integration of land and water within this environment.

Boundary adjustment recommended: Realign southern boundary as indicated to protect values associated with top of escarpment;Inclusion of Onepoto arm of Te Awarua o Porirua as CMA context - a contextual but integrated component of the SAL which contributes to landscape values.

Further work may be required to ensure that landscape values contributed by the CMA context are captured in the technical evaluation sheets and summary of values and characteristics for the SAL.





Landscape Area Status Key Findings/Questions Remaining/Matters for Clarification Recommendations

Paekakariki Escarpment 2018: Draft ONFL

2019: Draft ONFL

2018 southern boundary relates to vegetation rather than escarpment landform. Southern “edge” of escarpment is difficult to discern in many views, but is defined by a sky-line ridge in approach from the south on SH1 (when travelling north out of Pukerua Bay on SH1).

Boundary adjustment recommended:Re-align southern boundary to define escarpment landform more clearly.


Edit landscape technical evaluation sheets, to align with updated summaries of key values and characteristics (reviewed by Isthmus in Appendix A to this report, for inclusion as Appendix to the proposed Landscape Chapter).


Te Rewarewa 2018: Draft ONF

2019: Draft ONFL

None No boundary adjustment recommended.




Pikarere (Southern Escarpment)

2018: No status

2019: Draft ONFL

Excluded by the 2018 Evaluation for technical reasons.

Forms part of a prominent and distinctive escarpment - most of which was identified as ONF in a draft Wellington City landscape evaluation in 2017.

When considered holistically as part of the wider landform (i.e. without considering jurisdictional boundaries) is likely to qualify as ONFL.

Recommended for inclusion as ONFL.


Further work is recommended to fully identify values to inform the Plan Change.





Pauatahanui 2018: Draft SAL

2019: Draft SAL

The area as a whole (land and water) has very high value to tangata whenua (as recognised in the Greater Wellington proposed Natural Resources Plan),

The SAL is very large with particular historical values concentrated at the eastern end.

Western-most parts of the SAL are part of the Kakaho landform/hill and gully system. Consideration has been given to whether these western parts should be incorporated with the Kakaho SAL – to align “like with like”. On balance this is not recommended, as these parts are also closely associated with the coastal edge and distinct from the inland hills of Kakaho SAL in this respect.

Pauatahanui Inlet waters are seen and experienced as part of this landscape. Landscape values relate to the integration of land and water within this environment.

The ecological, natural character, landscape and visual amenity values of Te Awarua o Porirua/Pauatahanui Inlet, and the extremely high value placed on the area bytangata whenua (as confirmed within the Greater Wellington proposed NaturalResources Plan) are such that the Inlet in its entirety (land and water) should berecognised as an important landscape at a district scale, within PCC’s planningdocuments. Implications include strengthened policy response in terms of effects onthe Inlet SAL from surrounding terrestrial areas.

Boundary adjustment recommended:Include the Inlet waters within the District Plan as CMA Context - landscape/seascape context to the Pauatahanui Inlet SAL, as acknowledgement of tangata whenua values, perceptual values, and for integrated management purposes. (Refer also to the final column of this table, “Te Awarua o Porirua/Pauatahanui Inlet: CMA Context to Pauatahanui SAL”).

Further work may be required to ensure that landscape values contributed by the CMA context captured in the technical evaluation sheets and summary of values and characteristics for the SAL.




Rangituhi/Takapūwāhia 2018: Draft SAL

2019: Draft SAL

Engagement with mana whenua has revealed important values arising from the historical settlement and on-going/contemporary residence at Takapūwāhia by Ngāti Toa, with possible Papakainga in early planning stages at Takapūwāhia.

The 2018 SAL excludes a sizeable area of draft SNA on slopes above the urupā, as well as parts containing public mountain biking tracks (also behind/west of the urupā). These excluded parts provide amenity and a context for the urupā, linking it to the SAL backdrop (Rangituhi maunga), and are part of the SAL landform.

Papakainga development, if designed appropriately, could contribute to SAL values (with shared and recognised/tangata whenua values being key in this area). Papakainga development and planning provisions are not confirmed in this area, at this stage.

Significant parts of the SAL are covered by the suburban zone.. Existing zoning immediately above Takapūwāhia village and the urupā provides for residential-density development, which could detract from SAL values, if included inside the SAL.

On balance no boundary change is recommended immediately above the urupā at Takapūwāhia. However, Takapūwāhia village and urupā are linked to the SAL, and contribute contextual values which should be recognised in the consideration of development in this area.

Ridgetop values above Takapūwāhia may not be protected by the 2018 boundary.

Boundary adjustments recommended:

Extend boundary to ridgetop at north-western extent (above Takapūwāhia) to protect ridgetop values (contributing to sensory and shared and recognised values).


Recognise the contextual value contributed to the SAL by Takapūwāhia village and urupā.





Rukutane (Stuart Park Headland - including Titahi Bay

2018: Draft SAL

2019: Draft SAL

Landowner request for boundary change on the headland (Green Point) at Pikarere Farm.

Existing boundary takes in the highest point of the Green Point headland. This is appropriate to protect values associated with that landform. The line could be softened to follow a very slightly lower contour, but this would be a minimal change only.

Policy response for the SAL will be less onerous than for an ONF and will not be incompatible with the stated aspirations of the landowner, which is for possible large-lot/rural-residential development.

No boundary adjustment recommended.




Cannons Creek Ridge 2018: Draft SAL

2019: Draft SAL

2018 western boundary follows property boundaries rather than landform; 2018 south-western boundary follows a catchment approach, rather than landform approach.

Landform slopes at the southern extent (excluded from the 2018 draft SAL) contribute amenity and this will continue post-Transmission Gully, particularly with proposed associated planting mitigation (the route passes adjacent to this area).

Boundary adjustment recommended:Adjust western boundary edge to follow contour/landform more closely.




Belmont Hills 2018: Draft SAL

2019: Draft SAL

None No boundary adjustment recommended.






Kakaho 2018: Draft SAL

2019: Draft SAL

Northern extension to boundary proposed by Plimmerton Farm has ridgetop values for western Pukerua Bay, but is not associated with the Pauatahanui Inlet landscape. Additional landscape values would be required to justify SAL inclusion.

South-west areas proposed to be removed by Plimmerton Farm do form part of the Pauatahanui/Kakaho landscape for parts of western Whitby (contiguous with the draft Pauatahanui Inlet SAL). Existing boundary in this area follows ridge-lines naturally. The line could be moved “back” (contracting the SAL eastwards) to the next “natural” line across ridges (as indicated on the map PDF - Appendix A). This recommended boundary line will protect ridgetop values for east-facing residential areas at Plimmerton (e.g. on Motuhara Road) and SH1, while having minimal adverse effects on landscape values of the Pauatahanui Inlet.

South-eastern boundary (where the SAL joins to the draft Pauatanahui SAL excludes some landform (south-east facing slopes) for unknown reasons.

Boundary adjustment recommended: Contract boundary at western edge as shown on attached map (Appendix A);Expand boundary at eastern edge as shown on attached map (Appendix A).




Hongoeka/Wairaka 2018: Draft SAL

2019: Draft SAL

Mana whenua indicated naming of the SAL should acknowledge the important Hongoeka area. The name Wairaka relates only to northern parts.

No boundary adjustment recommended.

Recommended name change to Hongoeka/Wairaka SAL.






Te Awarua o Porirua (Pauatahanui Inlet and Onepoto arm)

2018: No status

2019: Draft CMA context to SALs

Te Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour is described by Porirua City Council (Growth Strategy) as “our taonga and Porirua City’s most significant natural feature.”

Te Awarua o Porirua is a key area for tangata whenua, as integral to Ngāti Toa’s association with Porirua as the land.

The Pauatahanui Inlet waters, salt marsh/inter-tidal zones, and surrounding terrestrial areas are inextricably linked - both perceptually (in terms of how they are seen and experienced by people); in terms of habitat and ecology; and in terms of shared and recognised values. The land and enclosed inlet waters forms one landscape.

The Onepoto arm provides the immediate water context for the two Porirua maunga Rangituhi and Whitireia, and for the important Takapūwāhia settlement.

Given the importance of Te Awarua o Porirua to tangata whenua and to the Porirua district, it would seem appropriate to recognise these areas as entire landscapes, incorporating both land and water.

While PCC has no jurisdiction over the CMA, noting important landscape values relating to Te Awarua o Porirua in district planning documents will strengthen policy related to effects on the CMA from surrounding terrestrial areas.

Greater Wellington’s proposed Natural Resources Plan identifies Te Awarua o Porirua (including Pauatahanui Inlet and its main tributaries) as Nga Taonga Nui A Kiwa (Schedule B), and Pauatahanui Inlet Tidal Flats and Saltmarsh as Outstanding Water-bodies – Wetland (Schedule A). The harbour and Inlet are both recognised as Ecosystems and Habitats with significant indigenous biodiversity values (Schedule F).

CMA has been defined as ONF (Harbour and Estuaries) by at least one other District Council (Tauranga City Council) within its planning documents (Tauranga City Plan), for integrated management purposes. Evaluation of the Harbour and Estuaries ONFL in Appendix 6a to the Tauranga City Plan notes that “Tauranga City Council’s jurisdiction only applies to those areas above mean high water springs as indicatively identified on the Plan Maps, Part B. Areas below mean high water springs are shown for integrated management purposes.”

The recent Natural Character Study carried out for Porirua City Council has included the CMA

Inclusion of both arms of Te Awarua o Porirua (Pauatahanui Inlet and Onepoto arm) as integrated components of adjacent SAL areas (CMA context) which contribute to landscape values.

Further research may be needed to identify and catalogue CMA contextual values.




Appendix A: ONFL/SAL Indicative Maps; ValuesDraft Porirua Landscape Evaluation 2019

Review of 2018 Porirua Landscape Evaluation

2 September 2019

Land.People.Culture.Isthmus.s.

2 Isthmus

Contents

Overview ONFL: SAL (Draft, 2019) 3

ONFL: Mana Island 4

ONFL: Taupo Swamp 6

ONFL: Whitireia Peninsula 8

ONFL: Paekakariki 10

ONFL: Te Rewarewa 12

ONFL: Pikarere (Southern Escarpment) 14

SAL: Pauatahanui 16

SAL: Rangituhi/Takapūwāhia 18

SAL: Rukutane / Titahi Bay 20

SAL: Cannons Creek 22

SAL: Belmont Hills 24

SAL: Kakaho 26

SAL: Hongoeka/Wairaka 28

Can n on sCreekRi dge

Pau atah an u i

Kakah o

Hongoeka/Wai raka

Rangitu h i /Takapūwāhia

B el m on t H i l l s

Ru ku tan e /Ti tah i B ay

Te Rewarewa

Wh i ti rei aPen i n su l a

M an a I sl an d

Tau po Swam p

Paekakar i kiE scarpm en t

P i karereSou th ernE scarpm en t

Pau atah an u iI n l e t Co n t e x t

OnepotoContext

Sources: Esri, Airbus DS, USGS, NGA, NASA, CGIAR, N Robinson, NCEAS, NLS, OS, NMA, Geodatastyrelsen, Rijkswaterstaat, GSA, Geoland, FEMA, Intermap and the GIS user community, Sources: Esri, HERE, Garmin, FAO, NOAA, USGS, © OpenStreetMap contributors, and the GIS User Community

Overview ONFL: SAL (Draft, 2019)

Legend.

Draft SALs

Draft ONFLs

City Extent

Draft Harbour Context- Onepoto

Draft Harbour Context- Pauatahanui Inlet

3Draft Porirua Landscape Evaluation 2019 | Appendix A | 2 September 2019

ONFL: Mana Island

0m 500m

1:13,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft ONFL

Contours -5m Intervals

Streams and Rivers

City Extent

Cadastral

4 Isthmus


Name: Mana Island

ONFL/SAL Draft ONFL (No boundary adjustment.)

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Highly representative island peneplain remnant; predominantly unmodified landform;

• A range of habitats and ecosystems present;

• Predator free: one of only two pest-free offshore islands on the west coast between Wellington and Kāpiti

Coast;

• Scientific Reserve managed by the Department of Conservation in partnership with Ngāti Toa; research

and educational importance;

• Significant location for several native fauna species; presence of translocated species, particularly

seabirds;

• Extensive indigenous regeneration of wetlands and forest in gullies and reaching up to the top of the

landform;

• Increasing indigenous ecology/habitat value (through active and ongoing restoration).

Sensory • Appears predominantly natural; extensive indigenous regeneration and overall lack of structures reinforce

the strong sense of naturalness;

• Landcover/vegetation patterns follow underlying landform enhancing aesthetic values (simplicity,

coherence, sense of naturalness);

• Visually striking steep rocky cliffs emphasise island/sea relationship;

• Distinctive table top island form which is highly visible and memorable from many areas within Porirua and

beyond;

• Ancient eroded peneplain and rugged exposed coastal cliffs remain clearly legible and expressive of the

island’s formative processes;

• Changing light patterns and water conditions emphasise the exposed, rugged island character.

• Sense of isolation from mainland;

• Seasonal variation due to weather and migratory patterns, including whale patterns.

Shared and Recognised • A very important place for Toa Rangatira, an area of tupuna activity for many generations, with many

important sites across the island, some of which are still tapu;

• The island was discovered by Kupe and bears his name as Te Mana o Kupe ki Aotearoa;

• Under the rohe of Toa Rangatira, Mana Island became the principle home of Te Rangihaeata;

• Mana was, and remains, an important area for customary fishing;

• Legend tells that the landscape form of the island (flat top) is due to Awarua, the taniwha of Porirua,

levelling the area in a ‘crash landing’;

• European occupation of the island began in the 1830s when a whaling station was established from which

time most of the vegetation was cleared to create one of New Zealand’s earliest pastoral farms;

• Wool from Mana Island sheep was among the earliest exported from New Zealand;

• Ongoing community and Department of Conservation restoration programmes.

0m 500m250m

1:17,000 @A3

N

ONFL: Taupo Swamp

Legend.

Draft ONFL


Streams and Rivers

Cadastral

Draft 2018 Boundary

6 Isthmus


Name: Taupo Swamp

ONFL/SAL Draft ONFL

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Taupo Swamp is the largest remnant flax wetland (30 hectares) in the Wellington Region, recognised as a

GWRC Key Native Ecosystem (KNE) and wetland of national importance for biodiversity;

• Very rare lowland wetland, close to coast - a perched wetland, separated from the coast by uplift; highly

representative of topogenous mire, one of only a few in the Wellington Region reflecting uplift and

siltation;

• Regionally unique and diverse vegetation and succession stages. Includes several at-risk species of flora

and fauna (Bagnall and Ogle, 1981);

• Important for research and education as a Scientific Reserve and subject of several studies – known

habitat of diverse aquatic species such as kokopu, eels, galaxiids and waterfowl (Directory of Wetlands in

New Zealand, DoC 1992) (Moar, 1949);

• Wildlife corridor (terrestrial and aquatic).

Sensory • Simple broad swamp vegetation pattern remains coherent along valley floor;

• Highly legible and visible; an enclosed ‘landform’ and edge to SH1; forms a memorable ‘landmark’ along

northern gateway into Porirua;

• Natural wetland values and ecological processes remain clearly apparent, albeit surrounded by major

transportation corridors;

• Opportunities to experience wildlife enhance sensory associations including seasonal variation with birds

feeding and flowering flax.

Shared and Recognised • The wetland holds special cultural and spiritual value for tangata whenua;

• An important source of mahinga kai and mahinga raranga for the Toa Rangatira settlement at Taupo Pā;

• Taupo Pā, situated at the sea end of of Taupo Swamp, was a principal pā of Ngāti Toa Rangatira; Taupo

Pā and Taupo stream mouth have important associations with Taupo Swamp and hold numerous sites of

significance for tangata whenua;

• Several varieties of flax introduced with help from Ngāti Toa in 2008 to enhance quality of flax for local

weavers, marking continued use for resource gathering;

• High recreational values with Ara Harakeke pathway following State Highway 1 on its eastern side and

linking Plimmerton with Pukerua Bay and with Tau-Tapu Track to the west;

• Taupo Swamp flax was harvested to supply the flax industry from the 1880s up to 1960 – flax was

transported to Foxton flax mills.

Legend.

Draft ONFL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

ONFL: Whitireia Peninsula

Cadastral

Draft 2018 Boundary

Draft Harbour Context

0m 1000m500m

1:14,000 @A3

N

Onepoto - Harbour Context

8 Isthmus


Name: Whitireia Peninsula

ONFL/SAL Draft ONFL

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Demonstrates the whole continuum of the Wellington coastal landscape from rocky cliffs to sandy beaches;

• Geologically unique formation - the only peninsula in Porirua;

• Recognised as a GWRC Key Native Ecosystem (KNE) as one of the highest value coastal sites in the

Wellington region, representative of the Cook Strait Ecological District;

• Pockets of intact remnant vegetation (important as a seed source for Mana Island restoration) and Onepoto

inlet with tidal influence remain relatively intact with remaining land cover in early stages of regrowth with

stock removal and active replanting of foreshore;

• Freshwater inlet sitting over Onepoto arm of Te Awarua o Porirua;

• Increasing natural science values due to active Friends group undertaking rehabilitative work.

Sensory • Peninsula landform appears prominent and highly visible from main transport corridors and forms sentinel

defining entrance to Porirua Harbour.; highly memorable;

• Few discordant elements with notable exception of transmission mast accentuating the peninsula’s

prominent and exposed location;

• Rugged, open natural and coastal elements character dominates, with less natural parts of the peninsula

to the south below/behind the coastal escarpment ridgetop, Natural character contrasts strongly with

residential development to the south at Titahi Bay, Titahi Bay Golf Course, and along south-western edge;

• Regenerating bush on slopes and within valley inlet remain coherent within landform, with open grassed top

and rocky cliffs on windswept north-western face emphasising the landform and its shaping by erosion.

Shared and Recognised • Long history of Māori occupation with numerous settlements along the coast; contains many sites of

significance, including urupā, kāinga, pā, middens, pits, terraces and turanga waka (anchorages for canoe);

• Kupe’s anchor stone, Te Punga o Matahorua, was left here by pioneer Māori explorer Kupe - now held at Te

Papa;

• Strong link to Mana Island, as the starting point for the shortest crossing of Cook Strait for waka;

• Gifted by Ngāti Toa to the Crown on the premise that a school would be built for the children of Toa

Rangatira, but no school was established, and the land has not been returned;

• The coast of the peninsula remains an important area for the gathering of kaimoana;

• Legend says that the gully with Onepoto Park is formed by the Porirua taniwha, Awarua, crash-landing into

the maunga Whitireia while being taught to fly by Rereroa the albatross;

• Te Awarua o Porirua (Porirua Harbour, including the Onepoto arm), has vast potential for environmental

restoration and this is highly valued by Ngāti Toa;

• Highly recognised landform within the district - prominent peninsula seen from many of Porirua’s residential

areas and national transport corridors;

• High recreational values with popular coastal walk and rock-climbing destination;

• Whaling station at Onepoto Beach mid-1800s;

• Land purchased by Smith & Smith as rt of their 100th anniversary celebrations in 1975 and gifted to

community;

• Active Friends group undertaking restoration projects.

• Onepoto waters provide a widely recognised setting to the Whitireia landform.

ONFL: Paekakariki

0m 500m

1:13,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft ONFL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

Cadastral

Draft 2018 Boundary

10 Isthmus


Name: Paekakariki Escarpment

ONFL/SAL Draft ONFL

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Steep coastal scarp with rocky outcrops modified by major transport corridors of rail and road;

• Steep fault line escarpment containing vegetation representative of the Cook Strait Ecological District

(Department of Conservation, 1987) subject to maritime climate with frequent gales;

• Coastal remnant vegetation provides seed source for several ecological restoration projects of the district;

• Includes a Key Native Ecosystem (KNE) (GWRC, 2016);

• Increasing natural science values due to active restoration projects.

Sensory • Highly visible and memorable northern gateway into Porirua where road follows dramatic coastline;

• Rail and road cut along coastal edge, however natural elements predominate with no apparent residential

development evident along the dramatic, and exposed escarpment landform;

• Highly expressive steep, rocky coastal scarp with extensive regeneration;

• Coastal weather effects including waves, high winds, slips and coastal erosion enhance wild and transient

values.

Shared and Recognised • Historic Māori village of Paripari was located at the base of the slope;

• Early transportation routes along the base and ridge of the escarpment used for defence, trade and

to connect hapu, and are linked to historic events of the Hutt Valley campaign and the ancestor Te

Rangihaeata;

• Highly visible, scenic route for road and rail users and wider community;

• Forms part of the national Te Araroa Trail– the Paekakariki Escarpment track opened in 2016 with high

usage by walkers, administered by Te Araroa Trust.;

• Active ‘Nga Uruora’ Friends group restoring quarry, undertaking restoration planting, managing plant and

animal pests and bird monitoring.

ONFL: Te Rewarewa

0m 500m

1:13,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft ONFL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

Cadastral

12 Isthmus


Name: Te Rewarewa

ONFL/SAL Draft ONFL (No boundary adjustment.)

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Highly representative of rocky headland and steep escarpment along Wellington’s western coastline;

• Plant communities’ representative of coastal cliffs and shingle beaches which occur in the region

(Department of Conservation, 1990);

• Part of the coastal edge modified by localised past quarrying activity;

• Natural regeneration of coastal scrub on hillside with goats and pest plants evident;

• The Pukerua escarpment is recognised as part of the Raroa-Pukerua Key Native Ecosystem (KNE) by

GWRC, characterised by very exposed, steep coastal escarpments and screes affected by salt-laden wind

and frequent gales, with high biodiversity values supporting the only mainland population of Whitakers

skink and other lizards.

Sensory • Natural landform and landcover predominates with evidence of st quarry activity gradually fading;

• Few structures with no permanent or incongruous elements;

• Very distinctive vegetated headland provides ‘bookend’ to Hongoeka Bay;

• Steep eroding scarps and incised gullies highly expressive of formative coastal processes;

• Strong influence of tides and wind around coast - evident in vegetation patterns and species.

Shared and Recognised • Hongoeka Marae establishes strong connection to this area for Ngāti Toa;

• Pā and kainga on the coast between Te Rewarewa Point and Wairaka;

• Pā sites and urupā located along Wairaka ridge;

• Wairaka Rock (near Pukerua Bay) is a memorial associated with the story of Hau and his wife Wairaka,

who Hau turned to stone with a curse while she was gathering pāua;

• Highly valued for its wild and rugged coastline with coastal walkway at base of headland; valued by local

community linking Pukerua Bay with Hongoeka Bay;

• Rocky headland provides clear definition and identity for Hongoeka Bay and wider community;

0m 1000m500m

1:20,000 @A3

N

ONFL: Pikarere (Southern Escarpment)

Legend.

Draft ONFL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

Cadastral

14 Isthmus


Name: Pikarere (Southern Escarpment)

ONFL/SAL Draft ONFL

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Representative of Porirua’s steep, western coastal escarpment edge;

• Intact landform;

• Contains pockets of remnant coastal vegetation and extensive regeneration on cliff faces and steep

slopes.

Sensory • Forms part of a prominent, distinctive and clearly legible escarpment;

• Appears as highly natural and remote;

• Cohesive landcover patterns without discordant elements or structures;

• Dramatic landform - forms part of a distinctive skyline (as seen together with wider context - coastal

escarpment to the south)

• Expressive of coastal processes.

Shared and Recognised • Tutamaurangi Pā was historically located at Rock Point, and used as a place of refuge in times of trouble;

• Archaeological sites at Rock Point and at southern end of Open Bay;

• Popular fishing and diving spot;

• Western coastal edge provides seafood gathering.

0m 1000m500m

1:18,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft SAL


Streams and Rivers

Cadastral

Draft Harbour Context

SAL: Pauatahanui

Pauatahanui Inlet - Harbour Context

16 Isthmus


Name: Pauatahanui

ONFL/SAL Draft SAL

Factors Description

Natural Sciences

• Gently rolling hills and valley flats/eroded river gullies - a good example of an ancient drowned river system with branching

valleys and marshy flats where streams flow into the inlet;

• A modified landscape with mixed landcover including exotic shelterbelts, pasture, and areas of indigenous vegetation;

• Pauatahanui Wildlife Reserve is inhabited by many local bird species and migratory bird species (caspian tern, pukeko, pied

stilt, kingfisher, black shag, bar-tailed godwit); pockets of inlet edge vegetation largely intact in the Reserve;

• Provides water catchment for the Pauatahanui Inlet;

• The adjacent Pauatahanui Inlet is a nationally significant estuary with a diverse range of significant habitats for threatened

and At Risk species; and is a nationally significant site for geological features;

• The only large estuarine wetland in the lower half of New Zealand’s North Island and only area of salt marsh and seagrass in

the Wellington region.

Sensory • A low-density settled landscape comprising a small village surrounded by lifestyle lots in a rural setting connected to the

Pauatahanui Inlet;

• Structures are generally well-integrated with few discordant elements;

• Land-water edge is modified with roading, but still provides a a vivid and dynamic interplay between land and water;

• Natural landform and natural elements remain dominant overall;

• Highly visible edge and backdrop landscape to the Pauatahanui Inlet; seen from extensive residential areas and State

Highway 1 heading north;

• Sunlight on hills creates dramatic patterns of shifting light with transient values enhanced by presence of wildlife, seasonal

browning of hills and tidal patterns within the inlet;

• Adjacent Inlet waters and inter-tidal areas provide a context with strong naturalness and scenic/picturesque qualities,

including reflections of surrounding landforms and other transient values relating to the changing character of the waters.

Shared and Recognised

• The inlet has occupied a central place in Ngāti Toa’s livelihood and identity as a people since their arrival in Porirua;

• The area around the inlet has been inhabited for at least the last 600 years and is rich with wāhi tapu, sites and historic

places, with several well-known Ngāti Toa pā sites with strategic importance;

• An important mahinga kai, with areas of extensive cultivations at Motukaraka Pā, and the uncovered mud flats vital for

the abundance of shell-fish they provided; the abundance of kai moana provided by the Inlet is renowned by Māori and

recorded in legend;

• Matai-taua Pā (on the site now occupied by St Albans church) was the only pā in the region to be built specifically for gun

fighting, and was the scene of fighting between Ngāti Toa and the Crown;

• The Horokiri Wildlife Reserve is near the beginning of the tapu track called Purehurehu, a route used by Ngāti Toa

Rangatira to travel between the Hutt Valley and Porirua;

• The Inlet has vast potential for environmental restoration and this is highly valued by Ngāti Toa;

• Highly recognised for its land/water connection; boardwalks and several tracks within Pauatahanui Wildlife Reserve

enhance recreation opportunities along the margins off the inlet;

• Changing light on the rolling hills and through the seasons are often the subject depicted in paintings and are frequently

photographed;

• The special character and qualities of the Pauatahanui Village Zone are recognised in the Porirua City Council District Plan;

• Historic highway north around inlet with Pauatahanui Village Hotel and staging post.

• Inlet waters provide a widely recognised setting to the landform;

• The Inlet has vast potential for environmental restoration and this is highly valued by Ngāti Toa.

SAL: Rangituhi/Takapūwāhia

0m 500m250m

1:16,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft SAL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

Cadastral

Draft 2018 Boundary

18 Isthmus


Name: Rangituhi/ Takapūwāhia

ONFL/SAL Draft SAL

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Rangituhi/Takapūwāhia forms part of the distinctive western backdrop to Porirua’s Central Business

District. This landscape extends between Pikarere in the north and culminates at Rangituhi / Colonial

Knob at its southern end. Much of this backdrop is contained within Porirua Scenic Reserve and Colonial

Knob Scenic Reserve and includes adjoining areas of vegetation backed by rural farmland visible from

wide areas across Porirua. The eastern edge of this landscape typically follows the boundary of significant

vegetation bordering the existing urban edge

Sensory • Largely cohesive undeveloped backdrop with advanced native regeneration from lower to steep upper

slopes;

• Considerable landscape significance for Porirua City forming a vivid natural backdrop to Porirua City -

some exotic trees, pasture and tracks are clearly visible on cleared slopes, but overall retains a high level

of naturalness;

• Panoramic views are possible from the summit across the Porirua area and Cook Strait to the South Island

– extending from the Kaikoura Range in the south to Mount Taranaki in the northwest;

• Eroded peneplain remnant of Colonial Knob remains legible;

• Opportunity to experience wildlife however several plant and animal pests are also present.

Shared and Recognised • Considerable spiritual and cultural significance for tangata whenua who have had a long historical

association and identification with this area with Rangituhi identified as the maunga for Ngāti Toa;

• Provides the maunga backdrop for the highly valued Takapūwhāhia village, marae and urupā;

• Areas in close association with the landscape - at Takapūwāhia Marae and urupa, and the wider

Takapūwāhia village - form strong associations with Rangituhi and the harbour - since disrupted

through reclamation along the southern harbour edge; Takapūwāhia village has been a focal point for Toa

Rangatira settlement since the 1860s.

• Highly recognised and valued open space values, including opportunities for walking and mountain biking

tracks;

• Presence of two historic water reservoirs in Colonial Knob Scenic Reserve.

SAL: Rukutane / Titahi Bay

0m 500m250m

1:16,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft SAL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

Cadastral

20 Isthmus


Name: Rukutane / Titahi Bay

ONFL/SAL Draft SAL (No boundary adjustment.)

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Provides a combination of predominantly intact/unmodified coastal landforms representative of Porirua’s

rugged west coast - rocky headlands, open headlands, coastal escarpment, sandy beaches and dunes;

• Contains areas of modified landcover (pasture); but with regeneration occurring in gullies and on steeper

slopes;

• Stuart Park headland contains remnant vegetation and extensive regeneration within gorse-dominated

scrub and stream with native fish – recognised as a Key Native Ecosystem (KNE) by GWRC;

• Active restoration projects mean increasing natural science values on beach dunes;

• Fossilised totara stumps from last glaciation are exposed at low tide and valued for their in-situ setting

both scientifically and educationally (Healy, 1980).

Sensory • Dramatic and highly legible coastal edge with limited development on the outer, enclosing headlands;

• Sandy beach framed by boat sheds and low key residential development: remains relatively coherent with

few incongruous elements;

• Rocky coastal headlands and distinct crescent beach form a striking visual relationship with Mana Island;

• Transient coastal associations heightened through exposure to high prevailing westerly winds; light at

sunset emphasises open landforms.

Shared and Recognised • Presence of a significant fortified, headland pā (Komanga Rautawhiri) – a sacred, very important tapu site;

• Tauranga waka (waka landing place) at Komanga - first visited by Kupe;

• Important area for kai moana harvesting;

• Titahi Bay forms an accessible and popular beach setting within Porirua’s dramatic coastal edge;

• Historic boats sheds;

• Green Point retains a strong physical and visual relationship with Mana Island historically connected with

Mana Island by a shallow land ‘bridge’.

0m 500m250m

1:7,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft SAL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

Cadastral

Draft 2018 boundary

SAL: Cannons Creek

22 Isthmus


Name: Cannons Creek

ONFL/SAL Draft SAL

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Large areas of modified landcover (pasture, exotic shelterbelts and exotic forestry) with indigenous

vegetation/regeneration at Maaroa Reserve;

• Predominantly unmodified landform;

• Maara Roa Reserve promotes natural classroom values;

• Pasture with some deep gullies supporting vegetated waterways is relatively typical of this area of

Porirua’s rural environment.

Sensory • Striking open rural backdrop with rolling landform, provides strong sense of enclosure to eastern Porirua,

visible from residential areas of Waitangirua, Cannons Creek and Aotea;

• Predominantly natural backdrop to the city to the east;

• The mix of grazed pasture on the hills, shelterbelts and exotic forest plantations, with bush-filled gullies,

has created distinctive patterns of open spaces with few prominent or incongruous structures;

• Changes in light and shadow add a dramatic context to this open pastoral backdrop;

• Highly visible from Transmission Gully route.

Shared and Recognised• Contained inland forested areas with important resources and links to other areas for Māori;

• Northern end forms backdrop to Maraeroa Marae in Waitangirua;

• Part of Belmont Regional Park which forms local backdrop for Aotea/Cannons Creek and wider area;

• Includes walkway entrance to Belmont Regional Park from Porirua through Waitangirua Farm and

Cannons Creek Lakeside Reserve;

• Landcorp farm - historic values associated with Belmont Regional Park including Old Coach Road -

the original route between Normandale and Pauatahanui and crosses Waitangirua Farm.

Cadastral

0m 500m250m

1:7,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft SAL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

SAL: Belmont Hills

24 Isthmus


Name: Belmont Hills


Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Large areas of modified landcover (pasture, exotic shelterbelts and exotic forestry) with indigenous

vegetation/regeneration at Maaroa Reserve;


• Maara Roa Reserve promotes natural classroom values;

• Pasture with some deep gullies supporting vegetated waterways is relatively typical of this area of

Porirua’s rural environment.

Sensory • Striking open rural backdrop with rolling landform, provides strong sense of enclosure to eastern Porirua,

visible from residential areas of Waitangirua, Cannons Creek and Aotea;

• Predominantly natural backdrop to the city to the east;

• The mix of grazed pasture on the hills, shelterbelts and exotic forest plantations, with bush-filled gullies,

has created distinctive patterns of open spaces with few prominent or incongruous structures;

• Changes in light and shadow add a dramatic context to this open pastoral backdrop;

• Highly visible from Transmission Gully route.

Shared and Recognised • Belmont Regional Park is highly valued for a diverse range of active recreational opportunities which

include walking, cycling, running and horse-riding;

• Views from these hills provide open vistas onto the wider Porirua area and harbour to Mana Island;

• Historic assocations include the original Belmont Coach Road from Wellington, built as the area

came under increasing pressure from settlement in the 1860s - the original route between

Normandale and Pauatahanui, now a recreational track through Belmont Regional Park;

• Contained inland forested areas with important resources and links to other areas for Māori.

SAL: Kakaho

0m 500m

1:13,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft SAL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

Cadastral

Draft 2018 Boundary

26 Isthmus


Name: Kakaho

ONFL/SAL Draft SAL

Factors Description

Natural Sciences • Highly representative of open rolling landform characteristic of much of Porirua’s rural hinterland;


• Primarily managed as pasture with low ecological value;

• Indigenous revegetation in a number of gullies identified as Significant Natural Areas.

Sensory • Landform remains largely open and intact with few incongruous elements; minor farm tracks, pylons and a

single block of exotic forest;

• Folded landform creates a vivid ‘rumpled blanket’ effect which remains highly visible from State Highway 1

at the Paremata Road Bridge and large areas of Porirua’s existing northern residential areas;

• Despite extensive pastoral use, landform remains relatively natural with limited modification;

• Distinctive valleys and open rolling tops highlight bold changes in shadow and light.

Shared and Recognised• Contained inland forested areas with important resources for Māori and associated with Pā and mahinga

kai at Taupo;

• Provides a highly recognisable local backdrop, visible from State Highway 1 and residential areas to the

south of Pauatahanui Inlet between Paremata and Whitby;

• Changing light on the hills and through the seasons are often the subject depicted in paintings and are

frequently photographed as part of the backdrop to Pauatahanui Inlet.

Cadastral

SAL: Hongoeka/Wairaka

0m 500m

1:13,000 @A3

NLegend.

Draft SAL


Streams and Rivers

City Extent

28 Isthmus


Name: Hongoeka/Wairaka


Factors Description

Natural Sciences• Typical Porirua rural landscape with gully-eroded slopes and rounded hilltops;

• Eroded peneplain remnant;

• Wide range of landform types from hilltop to foothills;

• Small forest remnants present within farmland (e.g. Rangi’s Bush) and regeneration in gullies at

Pukerua Bay; but predominant lack of gully revegetation results in lower ecological value overall;

• Ecological values on Hongoeka land.

Sensory • Highly cohesive landcover of continuous pasture emphasises steep and dramatic hills and gullies;

• Fences lines create strong visual division between farming and regenerating bush;

• Few structures and limited evidence of farm tracks or erosion;

• Striking open rural backdrop visible and memorable from State Highway 1 along northern gateway

leaving Porirua;

• Form of eroded peneplain remnant remains clearly evident;

• Quality of light at different times of day and seasons which highlights landform.

Shared and Recognised • Continued Māori land ownership and settlement; Hongoeka Marae is a continued centre of Ngāti

Toa Rangitira;

• Toa Rangatira urupā at Hongoeka;

• Inland forested areas with important resources for Māori;

• Forms strong backdrop to Pukerua Bay settlement and key characteristic of northern Porirua City

gateway as seen from State Highway 1 and Main Trunk Line Railway Corridor.

Appendix B: Draft Tangata Whenua Landscape Values Draft Porirua Landscape Evaluation 2019

Land.People.Culture.Isthmus.

2 September 2019

Draft Tangata Whenua Landscape Values for Porirua

Draft Overview Statement: Māori - early years and ongoing connections (Statement for amendment/ correction)

(Amended statement including information from

approved Ngāti Toa sources, available for council

reference only.)

Draft only: for correction/amendment

Draft Tangata Whenua Values

Ngāti Toa Rangatira (Mana Whenua)

1. Isthmus has been asked to assist Porirua City Council in the identification of Outstanding Natural

Features and Landscapes (ONFL) and Special Amenity Landscapes (SAL) as part of the District Plan

Review. These landscape areas are identified by considering natural science, sensory and shared

and recognized values, as set out in policies in the Regional Policy Statement (RPS). Isthmus’ brief is

to review the findings of the Stage 1 technical study completed by Boffa Miskell Ltd in 2018 –

Porirua Landscape Evaluation - and confirm the ONFL and SAL areas that will be proposed in the

Plan Change. An important part of this brief is to work with Ngāti Toa and build a greater

understanding of:

• Values to tangata whenua that need to be considered as part of the evaluation of the District’s

important landscapes, as shared and recognized values that help determine ONFL and SAL

status;

• The most appropriate boundary definition for these landscapes, that will allow these values to

be managed appropriately under specific SAL and ONFL objectives, policies and rules;

• Other landscape areas that may have been missed – that have very high values to tangata

whenua and, once understood, mean that the area can be identified as an ONFL or SAL;

• Document, in summary format, the values to tangata whenua that are particular to each ONFL

and SAL to be included in the proposed Landscape Chapter appendices, to assist landscape

management under the RPS and the Resource Management Act, 1991.

2. As part of this brief, Isthmus has reviewed a number of key documents (as confirmed by PCC) relating to

tangata whenua values, as well as documents and sources of information with a focus on Ngāti Toa history,

associations and connections to the Porirua area. In particular, documents/sources reviewed include:

• Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Toa Rangatira Trust and The Crown – Deed of Settlement of Historical


Claims;

• Greater Wellington Proposed Natural Resources Plan;

• Porirua City Council District Plan Appendix Z1 Statutory Acknowledgement, Statements of

Association and Statements of Coastal Values;

• Ngāti Toa Rangatira http://www.Ngātitoa.iwi.nz/

• Other approved Ngāti Toa sources available for council reference only.

3. From this desk-top research Isthmus has drafted a brief overview account of Ngāti Toa’s historical and on-

going associations and connections with Porirua’s landscapes, as mana whenua. This statement is

intended as a working draft and starting point for developing greater understanding of values to tangata

whenua that contribute to landscape significance and further work to identify values that are particular to

each ONFL and SAL. It is intended that this statement (refer below), once verified and amended by mana

whenua, will be included in the final Landscape Evaluation Addendum Report, to acknowledge Ngāti Toa

Rangatira associations with the wider Porirua area.

4. The overview statement may not be included in the proposed District Plan Landscape chapter, but “sets

the scene” for the key tangata values identified for each Outstanding Natural Feature and Landscape and

Special Amenity Landscape in Porirua1.

5. “Key” tangata whenua landscape values were identified in draft form in the 2018 Boffa Miskell

Porirua Landscape Evaluation, for each draft ONFL or SAL area in Porirua. These have been

reviewed and added to by Isthmus through the desk-top research undertaken (as outlined above),

and are shown in the document “Porirua Landscape Evaluation: Draft Tangata Whenua Landscape

Values”.

6. Once the “overview statement” and the more specific tangata whenua landscape values relating to

each ONFL and SAL area have been reviewed/amended by mana whenua, “key” values can then be

http://www.ngātitoa.iwi.nz/


identified in “summary” format, to be included in the proposed District Plan Landscape Chapter

appendices, to assist landscape management under the RPS and the Resource Management Act.

Values to tangata whenua and landscape assessment under the RMA

7. Statutory acknowledgements2 and areas of interest3 established by the Treaty of Waitangi deeds of

settlement and statements of association (as appended to the District Plan) are in place for Ngāti Toa.

Under the Resource Management Act, and as required by the RPS, this means that Ngāti Toa are tangata

whenua of the District, with shared and recognized values to be considered as part of a landscape

assessment and in the identification of ONFL and SAL. At a broad scale, and as summarized in the

description below, these statements and areas of interest establish the historical and cultural values of Te

Awarua o Porirua (Porirua Harbour) and its tributaries, and the broader Porirua area through historical

mythology, links to important ancestors, patterns of settlement, transport, trade, food gathering and

historical conflicts and events involving notable leaders and loss of land. As such Ngāti Toa are also mana

whenua4 of the Porirua District, who have traditional authority over an area of land [whenua] and the

area over which particular iwi and hapū claim historical and contemporary interests.

Māori – early years and ongoing connections

8. The history of Porirua can be traced back to the times of Kupe, the great Polynesian explorer and

Rangatira, who discovered Aoteroa on journeying from his home of Hawaiiki. The anchor stone from

Kupe’s canoe rested originally at Onehunga Bay and then at Ngāti Toa domain for decades, and now

resides at Te Papa. Kupe is responsible for naming many of the important sites in Porirua, including Te

Awarua-o-Porirua Harbour, Mana Island, and Komanga Point.

2 A statutory acknowledgment is an acknowledgment by the Crown that recognises the mana of a tangata whenua group in relation to specified areas - particularly the cultural, spiritual, historical and traditional associations with an area. These acknowledgements relate to ‘statutory areas ‘ which include areas of land, geographic features, lakes, rivers, wetlands and coastal marine areas, but are only given over Crown-owned land. The GWRC Proposed Natural Resources Plan (PRNP) further documents values associated with Te Moana o Raukawa, Te Awarua o Porirua and other sites of significance in the District for Ngāti Toa. 3 Areas of interest are mapped in the directory of Iwi and Māori Organisations administered by Te Puni Kōkiri http://www.tkm.govt.nz/ 4 Mana whenua means customary authority exercised by an iwi or hapu in an identified area.

http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1991/0069/ latest/DLM230272.html

http://www.tkm.govt.nz/

http://www.tkm.govt.nz/

http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1991/0069/

http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1991/0069/


9. Following on from Kupe, complex and multi-layered settlements, histories and connections

developed across the Porirua district for Māori. The settlement and discovery stories describe

these many layers of history in Porirua – notable for the reason that in that in no other part of

New Zealand do so many different tribes appear to have been located at various times.5 Porirua

was attractive to many groups due to its microclimate for growing kumara, its fishing and hunting

resources, and its position for coastal trading.

10. With each settlement, people created their own special places across Porirua, recorded through

continued naming. For Māori the naming of a place connects a particular group with the land, and

the land then becomes whakapapa – part of a living tradition.6 Early historical documents relating

to Porirua recorded that “there is no place in the district, however small … but bears a native

name, and to these names are attached traditions innumerable”.7

11. Ngāti Toa Rangatira are mana whenua in the Porirua District, with associations to the area stretching

back to the early 1820s. Around this time, following a protracted period of conflict in their ancestral

homeland of Kawhia, Ngāti Toa Rangatira leaders, particularly Te Rauparaha and Te Peehi Kupe, decided

to leave Kawhia and led their people on a number of heke south; first to northern Taranaki, and then to

the area now known as the Kāpiti Coast. Here the abundant land and resources enabled them to re-

establish themselves and revitalise their iwi, before undertaking further journeys into the Wellington and

Hutt Valley districts and across the Cook Strait into Te Tau Ihu (northern South Island).

12. By the mid-1830s Ngāti Toa Ranagtira held a powerful and unique strategic position in the Cook Strait

region, with occupation of key locations on both sides of Cook Strait (particularly Kāpiti island).

13. In the North Island, Ngāti Toa Rangatira’s principal kainga were located at Ohariu, Porirua, Kāpiti Island and

other locations on the Horowhenua coast. Other significant settlement sites included Kahu o te Rangi,


Rangatira, Taepiro, Wharekohu and Waiorua on Kāpiti Island; the offshore islands of Motungarara and

Tohoramaurea; the island of Te Mana o Kupe ki Aotearoa; settlements on the Kāpiti coast and hinterland

including Te Uruhi; the settlements of Wainui and Whareroa; and further south, several pā at Pukerua.

14. Closer to Porirua there were settlements at Te Onepoto, Te Kahikatoa, Te Neke, Kaiaua,

Onehunga, and Kaitawa at Whitireia; Motukaraka pā and Mataitaua pā at Pauatahanui;

settlements and pā at Taupo (near Taupo wetland) and Hongoeka; and around Te Awarua o

Porirua (Porirua Harbour) were Takapūwāhia and Kenepuru.

15. The coastal areas were typically the focus of Ngāti Toa settlement, with inland forests used for

resources and routes to other rohe (tribal areas). Current transportation routes, along the coast,

over Paekakariki Hill, State Highway 58 and along Transmission Gully are closely aligned with the

tracks established by Māori, travelling to and from Porirua Harbour. For example, Paekakariki Hill

is well known as part of Te Rangihaeata’s escape route from the conflict a t Battle Hill and the Hutt

Valley campaign8.

16. Ngāti Toa’s rohe is traditionally described as being from Whangaehu in the north, the Tararua

ranges to the east, south by Turakirae Heads to Kaikoura and west to Arahura, then returning to

Whangaehu. The rohe includes both rural and urban areas, as well a s a diverse range o f

landscapes from the Manawatu plains to the Marlborough Sounds and the North Canterbury high

country9.

17. Ngāti Toa Rangatira used the rivers, streams and maunga within their rohe i n accordance with

tikanga. These lands, waterways and harbours were of cultural, spiritual, historical and traditional

significance. The flora and fauna within the rohe provided food, shelter, and economic resources.

18. Boundaries, settlements, wahi tapu and other sites of significance represented and maintained

mana, and were also fundamental to culture, spirituality and identity.8 Kāpiti Coast Landscape Study IGL pg 47 9 Transmission Gully Cultural Impact Report, July 2011; Te Runanga o Toa Rangitira; pg. 10.


19. The waters of the Te Moana o Raukawa (Cook Strait) are at the heart of the rohe, and are as integral to

Ngāti Toa’s association with the Porirua area as the land10. Te Moana o Raukawa (Cook Strait) was, and

still is, a site of the highest significance to Ngāti Toa Rangatira. Not only does Te Moana o Raukawa have

great traditional and spiritual significance, it was crucial as a political and economic asset to Ngāti Toa

Rangatira and important as a means of transport and a rich source of various resources11. This coastal

environment provided a significant opportunity for expansion, and allowed the iwi to revitalise their

identity on arrival from Kawhia.

20. Te Awarua o Porirua is also of primary cultural, historical, spiritual, and traditional significance to Ngāti

Toa Rangatira. The harbour includes both the Pauatahanui and Onepoto arms. The abundance of

natural life historically supported by the harbour provided a wealth of kai moana, as a treasured

mahinga kai. In addition to providing sustenance for Ngāti Toa and guests, kai moana gathered from the

harbour was an important commodity for trade and gifts. The streams that feed into the harbour

provided a plentiful supply of freshwater fish, forest foods and rongoā12. This abundance of Te Awarua o

Porirua is recorded in numerous historical accounts by Ngāti Toa and early european visitors, and is

recorded in Māori mythology linked to the area.

21. To Ngāti Toa Rangatira, the lands, lakes, rivers and harbours within their rohe were taonga. Their history

and relationship with these resources is still one of the foundations of identity, cultural integrity, wairua,

tikanga and kawa13.

22. Ngāti Toa Rangatira continue to have a very strong association with the Te Awarua o Porirua. Through

active pā and marae at Takapūwāhia and Hongoeka, with Takapūwāhia having been the centre of Ngāti

Toa community from the 1880s to the present day.14

10 Transmission Gully Cultural Impact Report, July 2011; Te Runanga o Toa

Rangitira; pg. 10. 11 District_Plan_Z1_Appendix_Ngāti_Toa_Claim_Settlement.pdf 12 Greater Wellington Regional Council Proposed Natural Resources Plan, Schedule B: Ngā Taonga Nui a Kiwa: 13 Ngāti Toa Rangatira and Toa Rangitira Trust and The Crown – Deed of Settlement of Historical Claims, pgs. 12,13. 14 From 1823 (the beginning of Ngāti Toa settlement) to 1852 there were 12 major pā in Porirua, only two of these remain:

those being Takapūwāhia and Hongoeka. The names given to streets surrounding these pā (particularly surrounding


23. Hongoeka marae is also significant, now located in the suburb of the same name, stretching from an

urupā located at the end of Moana road to Haukopia (Big Bay). Hongoeka is a site of historical

significance, as it was searched during Te Rauparaha’s eventual seizure from Taupō Village15. It was

later set aside as one of three reserves which made up the Porirua Deed 1847 (after the crown had

acquired Porirua).

24. The exercising of customary rights within the traditional rohe continues today. This occurs through, for

example, the customary gathering and use of resources, and the exercise of kaitiakitanga in promoting

the sustainable management of the environment16. As an example, Ngāti Toa Rangitira gather eels and

inanga from the Horokiri and Pauatahanui streams and sometimes from the Waiohata (Duck Creek), and

pipi from the Pauatahanui Inlet.17.

25. Although in a degraded state, Te Awarua o Porirua is treasured by Ngāti Toa; as it is associated with and

nurtured their ancestors, and because of their continued role as kaitiaki, and concern that the harbour

provide for generations to come18.

26. Te Awarua o Porirua has played a fundamental role over the generations in sustaining Ngāti Toa’s physical

and cultural needs and continues to be integral to the identity of the iwi19.

27. Te Moana o Raukawa and Te Awarua o Porirua (including Pauatahanui Inlet and the harbour’s tributary streams)

Takapūwāhia) demonstrate that the city of Porirua has grown around these pā (Stodart, 2015). Takapūwāhia is named after

an ancient settlement in Kāwhia (Ngāti Toa homeland) (Takapūwāhia Community & Porirua City Council, 2014). There were

many Ngāti Toa settlements, however Takapūwāhia was “the principal residence of Ngāti Toa hereditary chief Te Hiko”

(Takapūwāhia Community & Porirua City Council, 2014, p. 6) http://www.idcities.co.nz/resources/Porirua%20

Historical%20Snapshot.pdf 15 Ibid 16 Transmission Gully Cultural Impact Report, July 2011; Te Runanga o Toa Rangitira; pg. 14. 17 Transmission Gully Cultural Impact Report, July 2011; Te Runanga o Toa

Rangitira; pg 17. 18 Ibid; pg 27. 19 District_Plan_Z1_Appendix_Ngāti_Toa_Claim_Settlement.pdf

http://www.idcities.co.nz/resources/Porirua


are recognised as Nga Taonga Nui a Kiwa20 and Te Mana o te Wai21 in the Greater Wellington proposed Natural

Resources Plan .

28. Sites of significance and areas of interest to Ngāti Toa in Porirua are recorded in the Greater Wellington

proposed Natural Resources Plan and in the Porirua District Plan, and include Whitireia, Pauatahanui Inlet,

pā sites, wahi tapu, tauranga waka and mahinga kai - to name only a few.

29. Mythological history also provides strong associations with the land and the coastal environment. An

example is the legend of Awarua, the taniwha of Porirua22. This tells of Awarua being taught to fly by

her close friend, Rereroa the albatross. To this day the results of Awarua’s flying antics can be seen in the

landscape around the Porirua harbour. When she crash-landed across Mana Island, Awarua took the

top off, causing the island’s flat appearance. When she collided into Whitireia she caused a huge gully,

which has become Onepoto Park.

30. The cultural values of places in Porirua are complex, because many different tribes and groups within

Māoridom may value a place for different reasons and at different times, and it may be difficult to

determine significance. From the Māori world view all the natural world (including people) has

significance and a certain amount of tapu and mauri. Yet within Papatūānuku there are places which are

valued differently due to the activities which took place. The type of place and its associated set of values

will determine what sorts of activities are acceptable from the view-point of the tangata whenua.”23

20 Nga Taonga Nui a Kiwa are those large freshwater and coastal entities from which mana whenua derive cultural and

spiritual identity, their status as mana whenua and the associated responsibilities that come with that including those of

kaitiaki. These places are the larger rivers and harbours that have a long history of multiple and complex resource use

associated with large populations. Ngā Taonga Nui a Kiwa emphasises the importance of mana whenua relationships with

rivers, lakes, harbours and estuaries. http://www.gw.govt.nz/assets/Plans--Publications/Regional- Plan-Review/Proposed-

Plan/Chapter-2-Interpretation.pdf, pg. 27. 21 A defining feature of Ngāti Toa settlement in the Wellington area and integral to Ngāti Toa identity;

http://www.gw.govt.nz/assets/Plans-- Publications/Regional-Plan-Review/Proposed-Plan/Chapter-12-

Schedules_2.pdf; pg. 287. 22 http://eng.mataurangamāori.tki.org.nz/Support-materials/Te-Reo-Māori/Māori-Myths-Legends-and-Contemporary-

Stories/Awarua-the-taniwha- of-Porirua

http://www.gw.govt.nz/assets/Plans--Publications/Regional-

http://www.gw.govt.nz/assets/Plans--

http://www.gw.govt.nz/assets/Plans--

http://eng.mataurangamāori.tki.org.nz/Support-materials/Te-Reo-M%C4%81ori/M%C4%81ori-Myths-Legends-and-Contemporary-Stories/Awarua-the-taniwha-

http://eng.mataurangamāori.tki.org.nz/Support-materials/Te-Reo-M%C4%81ori/M%C4%81ori-Myths-Legends-and-Contemporary-Stories/Awarua-the-taniwha-

Tangata Whenua Porirua District Landscape Values ONFL and SAL Draft Summaries of Values

For review and amendment by mana whenua

190826 4119 Porirua Landscape Evaluation Tangata Whenua Value Summaries

1.0 BACKGROUND

The following tables provide summaries of tangata whenua values for draft ONFLs and SALs in

the Porirua district, identified as part of Porirua Landscape Evaluation, for the District Plan

Review.

The value summaries are derived from more extensive technical evaluation sheets provided by

Isthmus to Porirua City Council in June 2019, and provided to mana whenua for review. The

summaries are being issued following advice from council and further discussions with mana

whenua on the technical evaluation sheets. It is recommended that the summaries are further

reviewed by mana whenua, for inclusion of all key values, as values identified in the technical

evaluation sheets are extensive for some ONFL/SAL areas.

The summaries of values are for inclusion with other key values (natural science, sensory and

shared and recognised) identified for each draft ONFL and SAL area, to be attached to the

proposed Natural Features and Landscapes chapter of the District Plan, in association with

mapped (draft) ONFL and SAL areas.

The summaries form an update following IGL Addendum Issue #21 to the Porirua Landscape

Evaluation 2018.

It is recommended that the proposed Natural Features and Landscapes chapter of the District

Plan should refer those assessing effects on landscape values to the technical evaluation sheets,

in addition to the summaries of landscape values attached to the District Plan. This will be

particularly important in relation to tangata whenua values, as these are extensive for some

draft ONFL and SAL areas, and are detailed in full in the technical evaluation sheets.

The following tables provide summaries of values only, and do not discount or exclude other

values identified in the technical evaluation sheets.


2.0 SUMMARIES OF TANGATA WHENUA LANDSCAPE VALUES FOR DRAFT ONFLS AND SALS

Mana Island: Draft Outstanding Natural Feature and Landscape

• The island was discovered by Kupe and bears his name as Te Mana o Kupe ki Aotearoa;

• Under the rohe of Toa Rangatira, Mana Island became the principle home of Te Rangihaeata;

• A very important place for Toa Rangatira, an area of tupuna activity for many generations,with many important sites across the island, some of which are still tapu;

• Mana was, and remains, an important area for customary fishing;

• Legend tells that the landscape form of the island (flat top) is due to Awarua, the taniwha ofPorirua, levelling the area in a ‘crash landing’.

Taupo Swamp: Draft Outstanding Natural Feature and Landscape

• The wetland holds special cultural and spiritual value for tangata whenua;

• An important source of mahinga kai and mahinga raranga for the Toa Rangatira settlement atTaupo Pā;

• Taupo Pā and Taupo stream mouth have important associations with Taupo Swamp and holdnumerous sites of significance for tangata whenua;

• The principal Pā of Ngāti Toa Rangatira was Taupo, situated at the sea end of Taupo Swamp;

• Several varieties of flax introduced with help from Ngāti Toa in 2008 to enhance quality offlax for local weavers, marking continued use for resource gathering.

Whitireia Peninsula: Draft Outstanding Natural Feature and Landscape

• Long history of Māori occupation with numerous settlements along the coast; containsmany sites of significance, including urupā, kāinga, pā, middens, pits, terraces andTauranga waka (anchorages for canoe);

• Kupe’s anchor stone, Te Punga o Matahorua, was left here by pioneer Māori explorerKupe - now held at Te Papa;

• Strong link to Mana Island, as the starting point for the shortest crossing of Cook Straitfor waka;

• Gifted by Ngāti Toa to the Crown on the premise that a school would be built for thechildren of Toa Rangatira, but no school was established, and the land has not beenreturned;

• The coast of the peninsula remains an important area for the gathering of kaimoana;

• Legend says that the gully with Onepoto Park is formed by the Porirua taniwha, Awarua,crash-landing into the maunga Whitireia while being taught to fly by Rereroa thealbatross;

• Te Awarua o Porirua (Porirua Harbour, including the Onepoto arm), has vast potential forenvironmental restoration and this is highly valued by Ngāti Toa.


Paekakariki Escarpment: Draft Outstanding Natural Feature and Landscape

• Historic Māori village of Paripari was located at the base of the slope;

• Early transportation routes along the base and ridge of the escarpment used for defence,trade and to connect hapu, and are linked to historic events of the Hutt Valley campaignand the ancestor Te Rangihaeata.

Te Rewarewa Point to Pukerua Bay: Draft Outstanding Natural Feature and Landscape

• Hongoeka Marae establishes strong connection to this area for Ngāti Toa;

• Pā and kainga on the coast between Te Rewarewa Point and Wairaka;

• Pā sites and urupā located along Wairaka ridge;

• Wairaka Rock (near Pukerua Bay) is a memorial associated with the story of Hau and his wifeWairaka, who Hau turned to stone with a curse while she was gathering pāua.

Pikarere (Southern Escarpment) (2019) Draft Outstanding Natural Feature and Landscape

• Tutamaurangi Pā was historically located at Rock Point, and used as a place of refuge intimes of trouble;

• Archaeological sites at Rock Point and at southern end of Open Bay.

Pauatahanui: Draft Special Amenity Landscape

• The inlet has occupied a central place in Ngāti Toa’s livelihood and identity as a people sincetheir arrival in Porirua;

• The area around the inlet has been inhabited for at least the last 600 years and is rich withwāhi tapu, sites and historic places, with several well-known Ngāti Toa pā sites with strategicimportance;

• An important mahinga kai, with areas of extensive cultivations at Motukaraka Pā, and theuncovered mud flats vital for the abundance of shell-fish they provided; the abundance of kaimoana provided by the Inlet is renowned by Māori and recorded in legend;

• Matai-taua Pā (on the site now occupied by St Albans church) was the only pā in the region tobe built specifically for gun fighting, and was the scene of fighting between Ngāti Toa and theCrown;

• The Horokiri Wildlife Reserve is near the beginning of the tapu track called Purehurehu, aroute used by Ngāti Toa Rangatira to travel between the Hutt Valley and Porirua;

• The Inlet has vast potential for environmental restoration and this is highly valued by NgātiToa.


Rangituhi/Takapūwāhia: Draft Special Amenity Landscape

• Considerable spiritual and cultural significance for tangata whenua who have had a longhistorical association and identification with this area with Rangituhi identified as the maungafor Ngāti Toa;

• Areas in close association with the landscape - at Takapūwāhia Marae and urupa, and thewider Takapūwāhia village - form strong associations with Rangituhi and the harbour - sincedisrupted through reclamation along the southern harbour edge; Takapūwāhia village hasbeen a focal point for Toa Rangatira settlement since the 1860s.

Rukutane: Draft Special Amenity Landscape

• A significant fortified, headland pā (Komanga Rautawhiri) – a sacred, very important tapusite;

• Tauranga waka (waka landing place) at Komanga - first visited by Kupe;

• Important area for kai moana harvesting.

Cannons Creek Ridge: Draft Special Amenity Landscape

• Contained inland forested areas with important resources and links to other areas for Māori;

• Northern end forms backdrop to Maraeroa Marae in Waitangirua.

Belmont Hills: Draft Special Amenity Landscape

• Contained inland forested areas with important resources and links to other areas for Māori.

Kakaho: Draft Special Amenity Landscape

• Contained inland forested areas with important resources for Māori and associated with Pā and mahinga kai at Taupo.

Hongoeka/Wairaka: Draft Special Amenity Landscape

• Toa Rangatira urupā at Hongoeka;

• Inland forested areas with important resources for Māori;

• Continued land ownership and settlement;

• Hongoeka Marae is a continued centre of Ngāti Toa Rangitira.

update to the draft porirua landscape evaluation (draft ... · 2.1 a draft evaluation of the...

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