ARC seeks community buy-in over aquaculture management

Changes to the Proposed Regional Plan: Coastal, regarding the development and management of Aquaculture Management Areas (AMAs), were yesterday publicly notified by the Auckland Regional Council (ARC).

The ARC invites public submissions to the Variations by 4:30pm Friday 13 December, 2002.

"ARC staff have put a great deal of effort into research and consultation with affected parties – however, at this stage, nothing is set in stone. I hope that those involved in this important industry, and those affected by it, will examine these proposals carefully and make submissions. We seek and we need community buy-in,” said Cr. Ian Bradley, Chair of ARC’s Strategic Policy Committee.

“I am also aware that many Iwi of the Auckland region have a particular interest. In many cases, aquaculture development occurs in places where Iwi have long-standing traditions and practices.”

"The main purpose of the Variations are two�fold: Firstly, to define AMAs in the region and secondly, to develop a policy framework for future management of aquaculture development," added Cr. Bradley.

As part of the Variations a new series of maps has been added to the existing maps of the Plan. The new maps define where aquaculture development can be carried out within the following regional locations: Kaipara Harbour, Mahurangi Harbour, Matakana River, Kawau Island, Great Barrier Island, Waiheke Island and Wairoa Bay.

Materials relating to the Variation can be viewed at the ARC, your public library and local council office or at www.arc.govt.nz/pubs

Copies of the Variations are available through Enviroline on 3662070, or 0800 80 60 40 if outside the Auckland free-calling area.

Submissions close 4:30pm Friday 13 December, 2002

© Scoop Media