Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet

Transcription

1 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet Unit name MAUNGATAPERE DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Volcanic cones land type Comment One of a sequence of volcanic cones, which form a family of features and characterise the landscape to the west of Whangarei. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Mangatapere scoria cone The three large scoria cones of Maunu, Maungatapere and Maungakaramea, were produced as part of a second period of basalt eruptions between to years ago at a similar time to the four cones to the west of Kamo, and three to the east. More precisely, Mangatapere was formed 0.29 ± 0.0 my. The site is listed as being of national geopreservation importance (Kenny and Hayward. 199) which states that the feature is the largest and best preserved in the Whangarei field. It notes that the height of the feature is 9 m, but that the cone is 18 m above sea level. Soil Types The unit mainly comprises Papakauri silt loam, and Kiripaka bouldery silty loam. The cone is listed as a soil site of regional importance since the area is a good example of Papakauri red loam (Arand et al. 199). Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) Archaeological sites Identified in the Whangarei Ecological District PNAP survey as Level 1 site Q06/02, this site includes 6 ha of forest and 6.7 ha of shrubland. It is reported that the site includes both volcanic broadleafed forest and swamp forest, the latter being accommodated within the crater. Both of these are nationally rare forest types. In addition, the cone is a representative site for totara shrubland, manuku-towai shrubland, mamuku fernland, taraire-totara forest, taraire-tawa forest, taraire-totaratowai forest and taraire forest. It is also the only site in the Ecological District where towai-mamuku-totara forest, mapou-karamu forest and maire tawake-pukatea swamp forest have been recorded. Pukeatua pa is located on elevated land to the north east. Heritage Landscapes The site and its surrounds have links to early settlement, with, in 189, the purchase of land in the Maungatapere area land from Te Tirarau by Thomas Elmsley and the Walton Brothers, Henry and Charles. Henry Walton established his farm on the slopes of the cone, naming the farm Maungatapere Park. (N.P. Pickmere). Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) The Maungatapere cone is an almost perfect steep sided cone which, unlike many of the other cones within the Whangarei field has not been quarried of modified to a significant extent by farming. The majority of the feature being the mid and upper slopes retains a forested cover. Within the wider context, the cone forms a single feature within the family of nearby and more distant cones contained within the Whangarei field, with the inter-relationship between the other cones being of importance both terms of landscape character and culturally. Locally, the Maungatapere cone forms a way marker on SH1 between Dargaville and Whangarei as well as characterizing the nearby Maungatapere settlement. The view of the cone from the State Highway to the east of the settlement is of particular importance and illustrates the scale of the feature and its spatial relationship with the town (refer to photo below). Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

2 EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. The cones within the Whangarei volcanic field are important features which typify and lend identity to the area. Whilst a number are unknown or lesser known due to their scale or lack of prominence, some including Maungatapere are widely known. This cone clearly represents a member of the family of volcanic cones and is widely recognised as such. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. Whilst a number of cone features exist within the Whangarei, Far North and Kaipara Districts, on a national scale these features are relatively rare. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. The Maungatapere cone is the least modified representative of the family of cones and retains a high level of coherence. This is a consequence of the uniform shape of the feature, the lack of landform modification and lack of vegetation clearance. As described above, a diverse range of vegetation types are evident on the feature. These types reflect the variations in underlying soils, the aspect, gradient and level of exposure and indicates a good level of diversity and complexity. The scale and form of the cone, in relation to the surrounding gently undulating farmland (to all but the south east) tends to emphasise the contrast between the feature and its immediate context. For this reason, and due to the high level of exposure afforded by the State Highway which passes the feature on its north western side, and other roads in the vicinity, the feature displays a highly vivid and memorable character. Although the rural area surrounding the cone, and the gentle lower slopes have been modified and assume a cultivated character, the steeper mid and upper slopes retain an unmodified and natural appearance. In a situation such as this, where the feature has a distinctive and legible form, it is easier to contemplate a defined line between the modified portion of the feature and the natural. This division on the Maungatapere cone is clear and the mid and upper slopes indicate a good strength of natural processes and natural patterns. The mid and upper slopes of the cone retain a high level of intactness with little modification of these most visible parts of the feature. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

3 Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. 2 The form of the feature clearly demonstrates its origin and formative processes. The form of the cone and its highly visibility and prominence contribute to the sensory quality of the feature. In addition to this, the contiguous cover of native forest on the mid and upper slopes differentiate this feature from others and add to the experience. Limited evidence of transient values evident, although changes in light angle and light conditions resulting from temporal and climatological changes are of importance. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development 2 The cone is a relatively small scale feature within a highly modified and occupied rural area. A limited sense of remoteness can be gained from being within the landscape, but it is difficult to achieve separation between it and the surrounding landscape. Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. The cone is a widely recognised feature and is highly visible due to the alignment of State Highway 1. It characterizes, and shares a name with the nearby settlement and forms part of the wider linked family of cones within the Whangarei field. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. Pukeatua pa located on elevated land to the north east. The unit is a prominent feature from the surrounding area including from the State Highway. It has lent its name to the nearby settlement of Maungatapere and is likely to be valued by the local community. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Final Version following Council decisions February 201

4 Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Photographs of unit Maungatapere from State Highway 1 Maungatapere from Snooks Road Final Version following Council decisions February 201

5 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet Unit name MAUNU DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Volcanic cones land type Comment One of a sequence of volcanic cones, which form a family of features and characterise the landscape to the west of Whangarei. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Kerikeri volcanics basaltic scoria cone The three large scoria cones of Maunu, Maungatapere and Maungakaramea, were produced as part of a second period of basalt eruptions between to years ago at a similar time to the four cones to the west of Kamo, and three to the east. More precisely, Mangatapere was formed 0.29 ± 0.0 my. The site is listed as being of regional geopreservation importance (Kenny and Hayward. 199), although modified by farming, minor quarrying and roading. A crater was destroyed as a result of the construction of a television transmitter. Kenny and Hayward report that the cone rises 10 m above the surrounding plateau, whilst lava flows associated with the feature extend approximately 6.0 km east almost as far as Whangarei City. Soil Types The entirety of the unit is overlain by Papakauri clay loam. Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) Archaeological sites Heritage Landscapes The site is identified in the PNAP survey is a Level 1 site and is identified as Q06/026. It comprises three areas of forest with the largest being located on the southern slopes of the cone nearest, and visible from the State Highway. These southern slopes are covered with taraire dominant forest with frequently occurring tawa. Broadleaf volcanic forest is a nationally rare forest type which supports the kukupa and regionally uncommon ornate skink. The forest is a representative site for taraire forest, taraire-tawa forest and tarairerewarewa forest. None known. None known. Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) The feature lies some.0 km to the west of Whangarei and appears as an extension to the hills associated with the Pukenui Forest. This said, Maunu forms a recognizably individual feature and is clearly volcanic in origin with a defined cone shape. It forms one of the family of highly group of volcanic cones, and is particularly evident when travelling along State Highway 1. From this road the cone forms a focus along the State Highway when travelling both from the west and the east. The cone is some km in diameter and stands some 9 m asl. It is breached from the west and is very steep sided particularly on its southern face, which is encircled by the State Highway. The west side, the north trending ridge, and the lower slopes on the eastern side of the feature are farmed, however the eastern and southern slopes are vegetated with pines and native forest. A number of telecommunications structures are located on the summit of the cone. accessed by an extension of Millington Road. These are Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

6 EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. The cone is highly representative of the Whangarei volcanic field and forms one of a family of cones that are intervisible and characterise the landscape of the area. Viewed from the south and south west the cone presents a strongly endemic and natural character, although from other directions the pine plantations, pasture and telecommunications masts reduce its natural character. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. Although there are a number of similar volcanic features in the area, in the wider context of the region similar features only occur in small numbers in defined clusters. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. 2 2 The powerful shape of the cone enables the retention of a measure of coherence. Furthermore, the presence of vegetation on the steeper southern, and south eastern faces provides coherence when viewed from the western, southern and eastern quadrants. The geometric form of the pine plantation detracts to some extent from the levels of coherence, and built development and vegetative patterns on the lower slopes tend to be more discordant and only reflect the underlying natural pattern to a limited degree. Vegetation on the southern steep slope displays a moderate to high level of complexity and diversity. The remainder of the feature displays limited levels of complexity and diversity. The volcanic origins of Maunu are clearly evident and as such the feature presents a striking form which is visible and distinct over a wide visual catchment. Like many of the other cones, Maunu is used as an orientating feature, as well as a waymarker for travelers on their way to Dargaville, or travelling in the other direction to Whangarei. Whilst not as natural as Maungatapere, the distinctive form, visibility and level of recognition result in the cone displaying a high level of vividness. As described above, Maunu has been modified in a number of ways such that the level of naturalness has been eroded. This includes the clearance of native vegetation for pasture, the construction of telecommunications masts, the planting of non-native tree species and the construction of buildings on the lower slopes. Viewed from the south and south west however, the feature retains an appearance of naturalness since from these directions, including along the line of the State Highway to the south west, the slopes are vegetated with native forest. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

7 Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. As described above, only portions of the feature retain a coverage of native forest. The slopes clad with this vegetation, are both aesthetically coherent and retain a moderate level of intactness with respect to the natural systems and processes. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. 2 The feature clearly displays its volcanic origins and therefore possesses a high level of expressiveness. Climbing Maunu, the visitor experiences rapid gain in height over a limited distance, and a striking contrast between the height at the top of the feature compared to the surrounding landscape. The views from the summit are therefore extensive and impressive, and the visitor can experience the wind exposure associated with an elevated position. Limited to the play of light and climatic conditions on the feature. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. 1 The modified character of the feature and its proximity of built development limits the sense of remoteness experienced by the visitor. Maunu is a readily recognised feature which characterised both the immediate area the nearby suburb shared its name with the feature and the wider region. As one of a family cluster of similar volcanic features, Maunu enjoys a strong community association. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Final Version following Council decisions February 201

8 Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Photograph of unit Final Version following Council decisions February 201

9 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Low escarpment land type. Bays and headlands land type. Reefs and islands land type. Sand dune land type Unit name MIMIWHANGATA to PAREPAREA BAY Comment This combination of land types creates a rugged and dramatic landscape that reflects the exposed and wild character of the coast. The cliffs and escarpments are punctuated by bays enclosed by headlands, rocky shelves and reefs. Geology (including geopreservation sites) The unit includes a sequence of a number of beaches separated by headlands. It also includes rocky shelves and offshore rocky islands. The beaches comprise sand beaches backed by low foredunes, whilst the headlands and islands are described as comprising Waipapa Terrane greywacke with Holocene beach and dune sand in bay on north side of Rimariki Island. The steep coastal hillcountry of Waipapa Terrane greywacke is capped by a Kerikeri Volcanics basalt flow remnant (which is a rare geological type in the District), and associated boulder colluvium. Soil Types Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) The predominant soil type along the coastal edge within the unit is Marua clay loam with pockets of Marsden sand. This unit contains a number of sites listed within the Whangaruru Ecological District PNAP report. All of the sites are Level 1 sites, the detail of which are as follows: NGAHAU BAY COASTAL HABITAT The site is identified as Q06/01 and comprises 2 ha of duneland and 1 ha of estuary. It is a coastal site supporting threatened and regionally significant species. WAIKAHOA BAY FOREST The site is identified as Q06/027 and has an area of 108 ha The area is of significance due to the presence of King fern (Serious Decline), kawaka (Sparse). pateke (Nationally Endangered), NI brown kiwi (Serious Decline), kukupa (Gradual Decline). Red-crowned kakariki (Regionally Significant) have been recorded from the area. MIMIWHANGATA COASTAL FOREST REMNANTS This site is identified as Q06/00 and has an area of 2 ha The site is of significance due to the presence of Calystegia marginata (Sparse), Fuchsia procumbens (Sparse), pateke (Nationally Endangered) and NI brown kiwi (Serious Decline) are present in the forest or margins. Placostylus hongii (Range Restricted) was formerly known from Paparahi Point and Ngahau Headland, but is now thought to be extinct at these sites. The snail Punctidae sp. 28 (Range Restricted) is still known from these remnants. MIMIWHANGATA BEACH/PAREPAREA BAY Identified as Q06/09. It is reported that this sequence of beaches are of significance due to the presence of threatened and regionally significant species. Northern NZ dotterel and variable oystercatcher breed in this area and pateke are found in the streams behind the Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

10 beaches. The site is a relatively unmodified example of a rare habitat type in the Ecological District and is a representative site for type spinifex grassland. MIMIWHANGATA NORTH WETLANDS This Level 1 site is described as Q06/01 and comprises an area of 8 ha. The site is noted as being of significance due to the presence of several threatened and regionally significant species including white heron (Nationally Critical), grey duck (Nationally Endangered), matuku (Nationally Endangered), pateke (Nationally Endangered), black shag (Sparse), pied shag (Sparse), spotless crake (Sparse), and grey teal (Regionally Significant). The Kaituna wetland is of significant size, with a series of smaller wetlands in the area all providing habitat for pateke and other threatened bird species. RIMARIKI ISLAND & SURROUNDS This Level 1 site is identified as Q0/060 and comprises 11 ha of forest and 11 ha of shrubland ) The site is noted as being of significance due to the presense of nationally rare habitat types, and a representative site for all ecological units. In addition, it supports a range of threatened plant and animal species, and regionally significant plant species. The plant species include Hibiscus aff. trionum (Nationally Endangered), large-leaved milk tree (Sparse), coastal tussock (Range Restricted) and Hebe Whangarei (Regionally Significant). Significant flora on Motuwharariki Island includes Carmichaelia williamsii (Nationally Endangered), large leaved milk tree (Sparse), coastal mahoe (Regionally Significant), and tawapou (Regionally Significant). The animal species include reef heron (Nationally Endangered), and white-fronted tern (Gradual Decline). Lizard species include common gecko, and shore skink. The snail Phrixgnathus paralaomiformis (Range Restricted) is found on both Rimariki and Motuwharariki Islands WIDE BERTH ISLANDS This Level 1 site is identified as Q0/061 and comprises an area of 1. ha The site is noted as being of significance for the presence of threatened species which include Carmichaelia williamsii (Nationally Endangered) recorded in Coastal tussock (Range Restricted). The site is representative with the only record of Native iceplant taupata coastal association on hillslope, and coastal tussock native iceplant coastal association on hillslope vegetation types in the Ecological District. Archaeological sites Pa sites are evident on prominent headlands. Heritage Landscapes None known. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

11 Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) This unit includes the tip of the Mimiwhangata peninsula, and its eastern side, including the sequence of rocky headlands, which separate a number of sandy, bays as far south as Pareparea Bay. A primary characteristic of this coastal landscape is the sequence of small to moderate sized beaches defined by stretches of rocky coastline. Many of the beaches tend to be indented into the rocks so that prominent headlands, with rocky shoals extending seaward and define the beach in a cove-like character. Parts of the rocky portions of the coast feature reefs or small islets which extend the rocky profile of the coast seawards. Low rocky cliff lines or steep coastal banks are typical of this landscape. The convoluted character lends the coast an added measure of interest, fragmenting and framing views and because the coast tends to be semi exposed the landscape is periodically battered by moderate seas. In calmer conditions, when the shores are lapped by placid waters the colour and clarity of the water, in conjunction with the exposed and submerged rock, and seaweed are attractive and alluring and heighten the sense of drama. The coherence of the coastal margin is strengthened by the strong vegetation patterns where pohutukawa are a recurring theme. These frequently dominate headlands and the steepest portions of the coast and sometimes provide backdrops to beaches. Where beaches are backed by dunes, such as in Pareparea Bay, spinafex and pingeo strengthen the apparent natural character. Some steep rocky headlands along the coast host pa sites, where the elevation of these elements have provided strategic bastions. The smaller islands tend to be little more than rock outcrops, or stacks, but the larger islands host low wind pruned vegetation EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. The varied coastal alignment provides a strong sense of anticipation and is characteristic of the rocky northland coast where views and outlooks continually change as the viewer moves through the landscape. The presence of native vegetation, particularly pohutukawa lends the scene a strong endemic character. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. Although relatively common on the northland coast, the character of this landscape is less common at a national level and is therefore of significance. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. The strong vegetation patterns, often dominated by pohutukawa and sometimes reinforced by coastal shrubland associations lend the coast a high level of coherence. Pockets of built development occur, but these tend to be confined to bays, or to headlands adjoining bays where access is facilitated. The coast displays a high level of complexity by virtue of its convoluted form, and the variety provided by the combination of rocky coast and sandy bays further heightens this perception of complexity. In addition, the diversity of microclimate and growing conditions offered is matched by the diversity of vegetation types that take advantage of the opportunities. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

12 Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. The coast offers spectacular and dramatic views which are recognised across the community. The vividness of the landscape is increased by calm and sunny conditions when the interplay between the colour of sky and water heightens the visual qualities of the coast. The coastal edge displays a limited level of modification as a result of human activity, however the inland component of the landscape has been modified by agricultural practice, replacing the natural vegetation with pasture. Having said this, there is a paucity of built development and landform modification, and the landscape therefore retains a moderate level of naturalness, retaining evidence of natural processes. The landward backdrop to the coast particularly on the Mimiwhangata peninsula is dominated by a pastured landscape and therefore displays a level of human modification. Evidence of natural systems remain within the wetlands contained within these pastured areas and are also evident on the coastal margins where both ecological processes and coastal processes are clearly evident. The convoluted and rocky coast clearly demonstrates the formative erosive and depositional processes that continue to shape this landscape. The colour and light of this landscape, particularly on still calm days is particularly striking. During stormy weather, the sensory quality of the landscape is different but equally striking with exposure, wind and the smell and feel of the sea being dominant. Transient values are associated with the flowering of pohutukaka, the migratory patterns of bird which frequent the wetlands, and the changes associated with tide and weather. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public The sense of remoteness varies along the coast depending on opportunities for access and the intensity of use. There is potential for experiencing remoteness or wildness. The values associated with the Northland coast are widely known and this recognition is evidenced by the numbers of visitors during the holiday periods. The associations which include rocky headlands, bays and the characteristic coastal Final Version following Council decisions February 201

13 esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. vegetation including pohutukawa provide a strong sense of place. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. Numerous pa sites are evident particularly on the larger headlands. The coast is highly valued by the community for recreation and this can translate to a spiritual affinity. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Final Version following Council decisions February 201

14 Photographs of unit Rimariki Island, off Mimiwhangata Final Version following Council decisions February 201 6

15 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types (refer to list overleaf) Steep hills: moderate high relief. Unit name MOTUTAU FOREST AND REMNANTS Comment Visible as an elevated vegetated landform, the unit forms a recognisable feature within the landscape and one of a number of similar elevated landform features, which contributes to the character of the lower part of the region. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Steep hill country underlain by Cretaceous-Paleocene ophiolitic volcanics (Tangihua Complex). Soil Types Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) The unit comprises a mix of soil types with the dominant type being Te Kie steepland soils, stoney clay loam, but also including pockets of Taumata clay loam, Takitu gravelly clay loam, Purua clay loam, and Omu clay loam. The unit is identified in the Tangihua Ecological District PNAP report as P06/08 (Motutau Forest). This Level 1 site comprises three remnants and encompasses an area of 21. ha. It comprises a large area of cut-over tall podocarp-broadleaved forest near the eastern boundary of Tangihua ED. Taraire forest is widespread, with frequent tawa, rewarewa, and puka evident in the canopy. Occasional species include karaka, totara, rimu, pukatea and puriri. Towai forest is of similar abundance, occurring with frequent rewarewa and occasional miro, totara and kauri. The remaining forest type includes co-dominant kanuka, totara and towai, with frequent kahikatea and rewarewa, and occasional rimu, tanekaha and mamaku. The PNAP report notes that the site is significant due to the presence of Northern rata (regionally significant, NI brown kiwi (Nationally Vulnerable), kauri snail (Gradual Decline), Liarea bicarinata (Range Restricted), NI tomtit (regionally significant), and kukupa (regionally significant), It states that the land snail Amborhytida forsythia (Gradual Decline) is also present. Archaeological sites None known. Heritage Landscapes None known. Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) The forest occupies an area of elevated land which rises to a maximum height of 60 metres and is a prominent feature from a wide visual catchment, particularly from the southern quadant from where it is also seen in the context of the Mangakahia Forest. Much of the northern flanks and the southern flanks at the western end of the range (including the high point) are vegetated with pine plantations and this detracts to some degree from the coherence of the unit. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

16 The central portion of the range retains a cover of contiguous vegetation and this, in association with the prominence and scale of the feature, and its relationship to Mangakahia Forest contributes to its significance. EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. The landscape is strongly representative of the sequence of ranges vegetated with native forest that occurs between the Tangihua and Tutamoe Ranges, but which also includes Mangakahia Forest. These features characterise the landscape within this part of the region, and are representative of Northland as a whole. Whilst a number of examples of this land type exist, the strength lies partly in the repeated occurrence within the region. They are characteristic of Northland and rare in a national sense. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. The main body of the range displays a high level of coherence, with the forest clearly reflecting and emphasizing the underlying landform. The vegetation within northern and western part of the ranges is more fragmented with the slopes clad with pine plantation. The ranges display a moderate level of ecological diversity and complexity, with a variety of vegetation types reflecting the topography, drainage patterns and slope aspect. Views of the unit from the southern quadrants are particularly striking with the scale of the ranges clearly evident. This characteristic is heightened both by the contiguous vegetation cover and by the contrast between the steep southern ridge face and the flatness of the Kaikou and Moengawahine valley floors. The majority of the unit displays a moderate - high level of naturalness with minimal evident human activity. Past clearance for agriculture is evidenced by the diversity of the kanuka forest, but the contiguous character of the forest lends the ranges a high level of natural character when viewed from the southern quadrants. Fragmentation of the vegetation to the northern and western slopes due to exotic vegetation tends to diminish the apparent naturalness. Vegetation types and patterns are clearly representative of topography, drainage patterns and slope aspect, and this suggests a high level of strength of natural processes. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

17 Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. The main body of the unit displays a moderate level of intactness, with modification associated with the pine plantations detracting from the aesthetic values of the northern and western slopes. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. 2 The unit displays a moderate level of legibility in terms of the hydrological processes that have shaped the valleys and ridges. The complexity and spatial arrangement of vegetation reflects the underlying topographical form of the ranges. The unit displays subtle qualities associated with native bush, and is reliant to some extent on interaction with weather to elevate sensory qualities. The unit is strongly influenced by light and weather conditions, although light conditions on the southern side tend to be more muted in scope. Ridges create extremely distinctive silhouettes during dawn and dusk. Seasonal influences of flowering trees and other plants are also important with respect to transient values. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. 2 The roading network in the area provides reasonably easy access around the range, and the prevailing sense from the margins is of a rural landscape. A greater sense of remoteness can be gained from within the forest where its scale and elevation provide a sense of separation from the surrounding rural landscape. The ranges tend to be less widely recognised than Tutamoe but form part of a wider sequence of landscape features Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Final Version following Council decisions February 201

18 Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Photographs of unit Motutau Forest from Marlow Road Motutau Forest from Riponui Road Final Version following Council decisions February 201

19 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Northern and eastern dissected ranges; high relief land type Unit name MT TIGER BUSH AND REMNANTS Comment The forested hill country represented by this unit is strongly representative of the character of the Northland landscape and the hills form a backdrop to the harbour, as well as forming a part of a discontinuous chain of hills that links Whangarei Harbour with Waikare Inlet in the Bay of Islands. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Soil Types Deeply incised valleys in hill country of Waipapa Terrane greywacke with limited areas of overlying Te Kuiti Group glauconitic sandstone in the west. The soils within this unit primarily comprise Marua brown clay loam, whilst ridgetops are, in places overlain with Omaiko gravelly silt loam and the valley floors with Whakapai clay loam. Pockets of Rangiora silt clay loam and Te Ranga steepland soils light brown clay loam, stony clay loam are evident in places. Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) The unit includes a number of different sites identified in the Whangaruru Ecologfical District PNAP report. Q07/00 (Taihu/Kohinui Stream Bush) is a Level 1 site, which comprises 0 ha of forest, and 209 ha of shrubland. This site is of significance due to the presence of threatened and regionally significant species. The site is contiguous with large, adjacent forest areas and is a representative site for mamaku fernland, and taraire kanuka/manuka forest. Only record of type (c) in the Ecological District. Q07/00 (Parkes Road Bush) is a Level 1 site that comprises 16 ha of forest, and 1 ha of shrubland. The site is of significance due to the presence of kukuoa. It is contiguous with large, adjacent remnants and is a representative site for type (a) totara forest. Q07/002 (Mount Tiger Road Bush) is a Level 1 site that comprises 22 ha of forest, 2 ha of shrubland) The site is of significance due to the presence of threatened and regionally significant species (including Kukupa (Gradual Decline), long-tailed cuckoo (Gradual Decline), NI tomtit (Regionally Significant), Australasian harrier, grey warbler, morepork, NZ kingfisher, NI fantail, shining cuckoo, silvereye, tui. Visiting NI kaka (Nationally Endangered), bellbird (Regionally Significant) and redcrowned kakariki (Regionally Significant). The snail Amborhyiida dunniae (Gradual Decline). Banded kokopu (Regionally Significant) and shortfin eel present in the upper reaches of Awaroa Creek. Mount Tiger Road Bush is a large area contiguous with adjacent forest areas, which provide linkages along Mt Tiger ridge, used by several threatened species. It is representative site for the totara towai forest type. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

20 Q07/00 (Waikaraka Stream Remnants). This Level 1 site comprises 1 ha of forest, and 189 ha of shrubland. The site is of significance due to the presence of threatened and regionally significant species (including Kawaka (Sparse), NI brown kiwi (Serious Decline) present in the past, kukupa (Gradual Decline), NI tomtit (Regionally Significant), Longfin eel (Gradual Decline), giant bully (Regionally Significant), banded kokopu (Regionally Significant) and Amborhytida dunniae (Gradual Decline). The Waikaraka Stream Remants comprise a large secondary forest/shrubland area, which is contiguous with several other forest areas. It is a representative site for towai forest type, kanuka/manuka kahikatea totara forest type, kanuka/manuka shrubland type, and kanuka/manuka rimu forest type. Archaeological sites Heritage Landscapes Pa sites are located on peaks, particularly overlooking the harbor. Archaeological sites associated with Mmori settlement around the harbour are common. None known within unit. Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) This unit forms the southern portion of the range of forested hills that extends down the east coast from the Russell Forest to Whangarei Harbour. Although reasonably contiguous at the northern end (Russell Forest and North eastern hills), the vegetation on the central and southern hills is more fragmented and discontinuous. Mt Tiger forms a prominent backdrop to the north east of the city and along the northern edge of the Harbour. Where bush remains of the slopes it provides a strongly natural theme to the hills, and the bush clad ridges extending down to the harbour are a strong element that lends structure to the landscape and assists with the integration of built development on these slopes. Whilst historically built development has tended to occupy the flatter ground adjacent to the harbour, and frequently within the bays on the harbour edge, more recent development has pushed higher up the slopes. The western slopes of Mt Tiger, nearest the City and overlooking Onerahi are largely vegetated with pine. To the east of the dividing ridge top, traced by Mt Tiger Road, the hills retain their native forest cover and the steep sided dissected gully provide a dramatic vista for the increasing number of dwellings being constructed along the ridge. Pockets of clearance are visible within the forest but for the most part the vegetation is contiguous. Further to the north east and east, the broad ridges occupied by Owhiwa, Kohinui, Franklin Roads and some linking side ridges have been cleared for pasture and ribbons of rural residential development have established, benefiting from the panoramic views. EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. The elevated forested hills are a characteristic feature of eastern Northland and Mt Tiger reflects the pattern of east coast hills that extend between the Bay of Islands and the Brynderwyn ranges. The forest displays strong endemic associations. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

21 Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that The landscape forms one of a number of forested hills that display little modification from built development. They contribute to and characterise the landscape. Along with the other forested hills, they relate strongly to each other to form a landscape of considerable drama and presence The landscape displays a high level of coherence. It reflects the form and pattern of the underlying topography with a largely contiguous vegetation cover of some 20 ha in area. The coherence of the feature is most evident from the the northern harbour edge and from Mt Tiger Road. Development is visible within the unit on ridge tops and the ongoing ribbon of development along Mt Tiger Road is eroding the character of the unit. Away from the road corridors however, the forest retains a strong coherence with minimal fragmentation. The forest displays a high level of diversity and complexity whilst visually maintaining coherence and harmony. The varied topography, with localized knolls and established vegetation provides for a memorable landscape. Viewed from the south side of the harbour, the extent of the bush on the backdrop hills is evident and an important characterizing element. The landscape possesses a high level of naturalness with limited built development or infrastructure services. The contiguous forest cover contrasts with the rural character of the surrounding landscape and this heightens the perception of its naturalness. The PNAP report indicates that natural processes and ecological patterns are strong and in good health. Mt Tiger forms a large area of forest with a high diversity of vegetation types. The contiguous vegetation, although modified in the past for logging displays a high level of intactness with aesthetically coherent vegetation patterns. Development along some of the ridges has eroded the perception of intactness to some degree. The landscape displays a high level of legibility in terms of the hydrological processes that have shaped the valleys and Final Version following Council decisions February 201

22 formed them. ridges. The complexity and spatial arrangement of vegetation reflects the underlying topographical form of the ranges. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. Primarily limited to the smells and sounds of the forest, with occasional views to the wider landscape from high points within the forest. Strongly influenced by light and weather conditions. Seasonal influences of the blooming of trees and shrubs. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. 2 The proximity of the unit to settlement and the ease of access diminishes the wildness and remote experience. Some sense of remoteness can be gained within the forest however. The proximity of the unit to the urban centre and settled areas ensures a high degree of recognition. Similarly, as a backdrop to the harboru, the forest has gained a strong community association. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Final Version following Council decisions February 201

23 Photographs of unit Mt Tiger Bush Mt Tiger Bush including pa site Final Version following Council decisions February 201

24 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet Unit name NGUNGURU SANDSPIT DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Sandspit land type Dunes land type Comment The spit is of a dramatic scale that is best appreciated from within the unit or from elevated locations to the north and south. It creates shelter for the Ngunguru Estuary which contrasts markedly with the exposure of the open ocean beach on its eastern side. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Holocene sandspit at the mouth of Ngunguru Estuary, comprising a sand beach and foredune on the seaward side, and dune and deflation areas to landwards. The sandspit is a site of regional geological significance, and is: an excellent example of an unmodified sand barrier beach and dune field developed between a tidal estuary and a broad open bay, a significant example of a rapidly disappearing coastal feature (Kenny & Hayward 1996). Soil Types Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) The unit is predominantly mobile sand, although a pocket of Marsden sand is recorded at the northern end. The sandspit is identified in the Whangaruru Ecological District PNAP report as Q06/102. The report ranks the feature as a Level 1 site with 7 ha of dunelands, 16 ha of shrubland and ha of estuary. The site provides habitat for a high diversity of bird species, including many threatened species. It is a breeding site for both northern NZ dotterel and variable oystercatcher, both of which face a reduction in their habitat due to pressure from coastal development. Ngunguru Sandspit supports the largest population of Succinea archeyi in the Ecological District, and the third largest population of this species in New Zealand. It also supports other threatened invertebrates, and threatened and regionally significant plants. The Ngunguru Sandspit is an example of a habitat type, which is now very rare both in Northland and nationally, and is one of the least modified sandspits remaining in private ownership. Its ecological value is further increased by it proximity to other significant natural areas, and its continuity with coastal forest at site Q06/101. Representative site for coastal sandfield type. Archaeological sites Legends tells that the waka Tūnui-ā-rangi, which brought Ngāi Tāhuhu to New Zealand, visited Ngunguru on its way from the Bay of Islands to Whangarei. The area was named by Puhi, captain of another waka, Mataatua. In pre-european times, there was a substantial Māori population in the area. The Ngunguru sandspit was the scene of a battle between southern tribes and Te Waiariki in 188. Heritage Landscapes The Ngunguru area has a long history of both Maori and European settlement. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

25 Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) Sandspits are created by the accumulation of sand as it moves along the coast by tidal movements. With the Ngunguru spit, as with the spit at Waipu and Whananaki, the feature has developed at the mouth of a river, forcing the river northwards to create a new river mouth. The spit at Ngunguru largely retains its natural form with the majority of the dune formations being intact and the vegetation largely indigenous, although scattered exotic trees wilding pines and other weeds are present in places. The scale of the spit is striking, being some 2.0 km in length and 00 m wide at its narrowest point. The beach on the ocean side of the spit presents a remote and wild character due to the difficulties of access, whilst the estuary side of the spit is influenced by the proximity of the Ngunguru settlement and activity on the river. At the landward end of the spit, the vegetated and elevated form of Whakareora adds to the sense of naturalness and grounds and contains the feature. EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. The spit is a recognizable element and characterises the settlement of Ngunguru. It displays strongly endemic associations in relation to the vegetation and fauna present. The Ngunguru spit is one of four spit features of any scale on the east coast of northland. Along with the Mangawhai spit it represents the largest and least modified example of a spit. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. The lack of modification, retention of dune formations and vegetation lends the feature a high level of coherence. The largely unmodified presence of the Whakareora at the southern end of the spit, and its associated forested context contributes to the high level of coherence. The spit displays a high level of diversity and complexity in terms of its ecological values. Highly visible across the estuary from Ngunguru, the spit is an essential component of the character of the settlement. Although appearing as a low profile sand feature, akin to dunefields from the west, viewed from elevated locations to the north and north west from where the scale of the spit is apparent, it is highly vivid. Similarly, the experience of walking on the feature creates aa memorable impression primarily of its scale and naturalness. The feature retains a high level of naturalness, although scattered wilding pines are evident singly and in clusters. No built development is visible on the spit itself with only small buildings being visible at the foot on low lying ground. These buildings tend not to be highly visible. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

26 Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. The feature demonstrates intact and strong natural processes and an unmodified and legible topography. The spit does not display signs of human modification and appears visually intact. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. Being formed and continually modified by coastal processes, the spit clearly demonstrates the natural processes which led to its formation. Although difficult to access other than by boat, the spit offers a variety of sensory experiences. Within the main body of the spit, the sand dunes, screen views of the adjoining settlement and create shelter from the wind. The silence and stillness provided by the dunes contrasts with the exposure and noise of the ocean beach. Movement and migratory activities of sea birds contribute to the transitory values of the spit, as well as the daily rhythms of the tides and the changes resulting from the weather. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. Despite its proximity to the Ngunguru settlement, the spit can provide the illusion of a high level of remoteness and wildness, primarily due to the separation provided by the river, and lack of access from the south. The spit is widely valued and recohnised as an important landscape feature worthy of protection. Recent and historic attempts to develop the spit has galvanized the community into opposing development. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. The spit is highly valued by the local community for in terms of its spiritual, historical, cultural and ecological values. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Final Version following Council decisions February 201

27 Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Photographs of unit Ngunguru Sandspit Final Version following Council decisions February 201

28 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Northern and eastern dissected hills; moderate to high relief land type Unit name NORTH EAST BUSH CLAD HILLS Comment The forested hill country represented by this unit is strongly representative of the character of the Northland landscape, as is the balance between this vegetated steeper country and gullies, and the pastured lower lying country and rivers flats. Since public access to the hills that comprise this land type is limited, views experienced by the wider community of this land type are restricted to glimpses of a vegetated ridge slope on its margins when travelling along a road, or more frequently as the forested hill slopes that form a backdrop to much of the east coast of Northland. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Steeply dissected hillcountry of Waipapa Terrane greywacke with Kerikeri Volcanics basalt flow remnants and associated boulder colluvium on some hills and ridge tops. Steeply dissected hillcountry in Waipapa Terrane greywacke. Soil Types Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) The more elevated portions of the unit are characterised by Te Ranga steepland soils, clay loam and stony clay loam, with isolated pockets of Waioto friable clay. Midslopes are dominated by Te Ranga steepland soils, light brown clay loam and stony clay loam. The valley floors are overlain by Whakapara mottled clay loam. Q06/026 (Hansens Hill Forest) The site comprises 292 ha of forest, 217 ha of shrubland, and 10 ha of wetland). Hansens Hill Forest is significant for the presence of kawaka (Sparse), pateke, which are Nationally Endangered) utilise streams in the habitat, and breed in the area. North Island brown kiwi (Serious Decline) is also reported to be present. Other significant fauna include kukupa (Gradual Decline), NI tomtit (Regionally Significant), and Peripatus sp. Q06/11 (Whananaki Bush) This site comprises 2 ha of forest, and 861 ha of shrubland. The site is significant as a large, contiguous area, which provides habitat for several threatened species including NI brown kiwi (Serious Decline), kukupa (Gradual Decline), Auckland green gecko (Gradual Decline) recorded in Fish recorded at this site include inanga and redfin bully. Whananaki Bush is a representative site for kanuka/manuka shrubland, kanuka/manuka totara shrubland, kauri rimu towai forest (only record in Ecological District), kanuka/ manuka rimu forest, kauri tanekaha forest, towai secondary forest, kanuka/manuka tanekaha totara shrubland, tanekaha totara forest (only record in Ecological District), and taraire kahikatea forest (only record in Ecological District). Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

29 Archaeological sites Pa sites are evident hill tops, particularly near the coast. Heritage Landscapes None known Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) As part of a continuing theme of elevated forested hills that extend down the east coast from the Bay of Islands to Whangarei harbour, this unit comprises a sprawling area of forest that links Mimiwhangata with the hills inland from Sandy bay. As with the Russell Forest, and the Eastern hills, this unit forms a vegetated backdrop to the coast which characterises Northlands east coast. Similarly, these hills, when seen from inland roads are often experienced as glimpses of forest where it overtops a ridge, or flows down a gully. In other places the forest may be seen as a more continuous feature extending for some distance. Viewed from elevated locations within the unit, the extent and contiguity of the vegetation are more apparent. Whilst the more frequently seen margins of the units tend to comprise regenerating shrubland, the vegetation contained within its interior is generally more established and diverse, and often encompasses entire catchments. Frequently, pockets of pasture are isolated within the wider areas of bush. Most frequently these are limited to ridge tops, or spurs, thus providing easier access for stock to the interior of the bush areas. Sometimes pockets of lower lying pasture are evident in lower lying locations. The pastured ridgetops also allow access to, and suitable buildings sites for dwellings, and development of this type has occurred, particularly at the southern end of the unit around Whananaki and Sandy Bay, but also along the bush margins of the valleys occupied by Whananaki North and South Roads, and Kaiikanui Road. Generally built development has been sympathetic to the landform patterns and form recessive elements in the landscape, although some less sympathetic examples are more prominent and draw the eye. With the exception of the indeterminate edges resulting from the grazed ridgetops, the margins of the unit are reasonably well defined by the bush edges, and generally accommodates the steeper land. The landscape type as characterised by this unit forms a dominant element in the mix that typifies the Northland rural landscape, with other elements of the mix including pastured hills and ridges, and bush remnants. Plantation forestry is also a feature of this unit, although usually occurring in contained pockets close to the margins of the unit. The unit includes several extensive areas, these are; Hills to the north west and north of Opuawhanga; Hills to the south and south west of Helena Bay; Hansens Hill and Onekainga, to the north and north west of Whananaki; The range of hills between Whananaki North and South Roads, and; The range of hills between Whananaki South Road and Matapouri Road, inland from Sandy Bay. Typically this vegetation lends a sense of coherence and legibility to the landscape, creating a strong landscape structure. The age and diversity of much of this forest is limited, and historical aerial photography has indicated that many areas have regenerated over the past 0 0 years, although more diverse vegetation within gullies and on steeper slopes evidences a framework of older and more established forest. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

30 EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. The unit is strongly representative of the sequence of ranges vegetated with native forest that occurs between the Russell Forest, Mt Tiger and Eastern hills. These features characterise the landscape within this part of the region, and are representative of Northland as a whole. Whilst a number of examples of this land type exist, the strength lies partly in the repeated occurrence within the region. They are characteristic of Northland and rare in a national sense. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. The unit displays a moderate level of coherence, with the larger areas of forest clearly reflecting and emphasizing the underlying landform and patterns of the landscape. There is a degree of fragmentation however with the intervening areas being used for other landuses. Generally however the natural patterns still display a level of coherence where vegetation has been retained on steeper valley sides and within gullies. The unit displays a moderate to high level of ecological diversity and complexity, with a variety of vegetation types reflecting the topography, drainage patterns and slope aspect. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Viewed from the coast to the east, the unit forms an important backdrop to the landscape, which is a repeated theme along the east coast. This land type is not, however particularly spectacular, although memorable in the wider overriding landscape character sense. The unit is also experienced when travelling to or from the coast along the various west east aligned roads. Viewed from these roads there is no perception of the overall extent of the vegetation, although in some locations particularly when bisecting the larger areas of forest and descending to the coast Sandy Bay Hill and on Whananaki South Road for example when the scale of vegetation is more memorable and forms a waymarker, or gateway on the journey to the coast. A key element of this is the lack of visible built development thus heightening the sense of wildness and remoteness key elements of the Northland coastal experience. The majority of the unit displays a high level of naturalness with minimal evident human activity. Fragmentation of the vegetation tends to diminish the apparent naturalness, as does the presence of pine plantation to the west, but the linking fragments relate well to the underlying topographical and hydrological patterns. Pasture along ridgetops and spurs reflect the ongoing use of these areas for grazing of stock. Pastured ridgetops are more common on the margins of the unit, although in places Final Version following Council decisions February 201

31 Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. 2 they do extend some distance into the unit. Although these areas do detract to some extent from the naturalness of the unit, and suggest the ongoing use of the forest as a grazing resource, the scale of the unit as a whole tends to mitigate against the diminishing of naturalness. Vegetation types and patterns are clearly representative of topography, drainage patterns and slope aspect, and this suggests a high level of strength of natural processes. The unit displays a moderate level of intactness, although the corridors althrough the unit provided by Matapouri, Whananaki South, Whananaki North, and Kaiikanui Roads have resulted in the fragmentation of the wider area of forest. In the extensive areas between these road corridors the unit displays a high level of intactness. The landscape displays a high level of legibility in terms of the hydrological processes that have shaped the valleys and ridges. The complexity and spatial arrangement of vegetation reflects the underlying topographical form of the unit. Viewed from the east, the unit forms an elevated and vegetated backdrop that contributes to the character and sense of place of the landscape. Strongly influenced by light and weather conditions, although light conditions on the southern side tend to be more muted in scope. Ridges create extremely distinctive silhouettes during dawn and dusk. Seasonal influences of flowering trees and other plants. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. The roading network in the area provides reasonably easy access to the unit, and the prevailing sense from the margins is of a rural landscape. The proximity of built development also affects the sense of remoteness, although in some locations a limited sense of remoteness whilst journeying can be experienced. The ranges tend to be less widely recognised than the nearby Russell Forest but forms part of a wider sequence of landscape features. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Final Version following Council decisions February 201

32 Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Photographs of unit View north east over North east Hills to Whananaki Final Version following Council decisions February 201

33 View north east over Otamure Bay showing the relationship between the coast and unit Final Version following Council decisions February 201 6

34 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Central rolling hills; strongly undulating land type Unit name NORTH RIVER AND WAIPU CAVES FORESTS AND REMNANTS Comment Visible as an elevated vegetated landform, the unit forms a recognisable feature within the landscape and one of a number of similar elevated landform features, which contributes to the character of the lower part of the region. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Manaia / Bream Head stratovolcano North River Forest: Steep hill country with deeply incised valleys and gullies; predominantly underlain by Mesozoic greywake (Waipapa Terrace), but with areas of Oligocene limestone karst (Whangarei Limestone, Te Kuiti Group) along Waipu Caves Road, and Miocene sandy mudstone (Waitemata Group) in the vicinity of Q Small areas of Holocene alluvial flats are present in the North River gorge from Q , and on the southern side of a prominent fault scarp at Q Within the northern portion of the area the hillslopes and gullies are also underlain by bluff-forming sandstone (Waitemata Group). Waipu Caves Forest: Steep hill country with deeply incised valleys and gullies; predominantly underlain by Mezozoic greywake (Waipapa Terrane) but with areas of Oligocene limestone karst (Whangarei Limestone, Te Kuiti Group) along Waipu Caves Road, and Miocene sandy mudstone (Waitemata Group). The limestone geology and the vegetation it supports is regionally distinctive (Kenny & Hayward, 1996) and the limestone cave system has been ranked as regionally important for geomorphology because it includes the largest cave passage in Northland and some fossil bone deposits. Soil Types The unit, particularly the Waipu Caves Road Scenic Reserve, is ranked as being a soil site of national importance (Arand et al. 199). The North River Forest shares a commonality with the Ruakaka Forest, being primarily overlain by Rangiora clay loam and Marua clay loam. Soils on the primary ridges within both forest areas comprise Marua clay loam and Te Ranga steepland soils, light brown clay loam and stony clay loams. Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) North River Forest: Identified in the Waipu Ecological District PNAP report as Q07/117 (North River Forest), this Level 1 site comprises 97. ha of forest, and. ha of shrubland. The forest is largely contiguous, occupying east west trending steep hill country south of Waipu caves Road and north of Helmsdale Road. The forest lies within two catchments of the North River, although the river lies to the south. One of these drains east off the northern side of the hills. The other drains south, through a steep, winding, limestone gorge that descends from Waipu Caves Road. This gorge contains a number of sizable waterfalls. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

35 The forest is one of the largest areas of indigenous bush within the Waipu Ecological District and forms a stepping stone betweem the Ruakaka Forest and the Mereretu Forest. The site is of significance due to the presence of four threatened plant species; Doodia squarrosa, Doodia mollis, mida and Nematoceras rivulare, five regionally significant plant species Hebe macrocarpa var. macrocarpa, tree fuscia, Oxalis magellanica, Brachyglottis kirkii var. angustior, and gully tree fern. In addition, a number of threatened fauna species are present, including kauri snail, kukupa, Hochstetter s frog, and longfin eel, and two regionally significant fauna species (tomtit and banded kokopu. The forest contains nine representative ecological ecological types; kanuka-rimu-tanekaha, -rimu forest on ridge, kanuka-mamaku forest on ridge, hillslope and in gully head, taraire forest on moderate to steep hillslope and gully, tanekaha-kanuka forest on ridge and steep hillslope, kanuka forest on ridge, puriri forest in gully, kauri-kanuka forest on ridge, kanuka-rewarewa forest in gully head, rimu-tanekaha forest on ridge and kowhai-kahikatea forest on alluvium (unique in the Ecological District and rare nationally). The forest within the northern portion of the area (Q07/120, Caves Road Forest) situated directed north of Waipu Caves Road and west of Ormiston Road, where it is closely linked with the larger forest area to the south, is more fragmented. It comprises ha of forest and 0.8 ha wetland. The vegetation over much of the site is characterised by young kanuka forest with frequent totara and mamuku. The site is of significance due to the presence of kaikomako (Regionally Significant), Hochstetter s frog (Sparse), New Zealand dabchick (Sparse), Australasian little grebe (Coloniser; regionally significant), kukupa (Gradual Decline). This portion of the site includes a representative example of nikau forest on moderate hill slope which is unrecorded elsewhere in the Ecological District. Waipu Caves Forest: Identified in the Waipu Ecological District PNAP report as Q07/118 (Waipu Caves Forest), the Level 1 site comprises an area of ha, much of which is totara forest on moderate hillslope. The forest is long and narrow in shape, extending over km in an east-west direction and 600 m wide north to south and occupying steep hill country. The site is bisected by Waipu Caves Road and is grazed throughout much of its area. The two major ecological units of the site are representative of their types, being totara forest on moderate hillslope, and totara-taraire forest on moderate hillslope and in a gully. The forest provides an important ecological linkage between North River Forest and Ruakaka Forest. It also contains one threatened plant species (Doodia mollis) and two regionally plant species (carmine rata and tree fuscia). Five threatened fauna species (kukupa, kauri snail, Hochstetter s frog) are present within the site. Archaeological sites None known. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

36 Heritage Landscapes None known. Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) Located to the north of the Mareretu Forest, this unit relates strongly both to that, and the Ruakaka Forest to the north east and all form elements of the horse-shoe of forested ranges that arches from the Brynderwyns to the Harbour. Like the aforementioned forests, the North River Forest is glimpsed from State Highway 1 as an inland line of bush clad hills, although for the traveller, distinguishing between the individual range is challenging. Viewed from the surrounding countryside this group of units also tends to merge, with bush remnants occupying the steeper slopes and gullies, providing linking structural elements and lending the landscape a strong bush character. Smaller in both area and stature than the forest to the south, the unit is separated from the Mareretu Forest by the valley of the North River a broad pastoral valley accessed by Helmsdale Road. From this road, the steepness of the vegetated northern valley side is evident and dominates the view. The North River Forest unit is accessed via Waipu Caves Road and Palmer Road and these roads trace a broad ridge up to the high point, at 29 m. The ridge has been cleared of forest for grazing and scattered dwellings are visible, but are generally well integrated into the landscape. A recent subdivision has facilitated the construction of a number of additional dwellings along the crest of the south facing slope, however these buildings are unlikely to detract from the landscape values of the unit when viewed from the south. To the north, the Waipu caves Forest unit occupies steeper slopes of a linear range of hills which rises to a maximum height of some 270 m and is aligned west east. The unit is bisected by Waipu Caves Road. EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. The unit is strongly representative of the sequence of ranges vegetated with native forest that occurs between the Brynderwyns and Takahiwai Range. These features characterise the landscape within this part of the region, and are representative of Northland as a whole. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Whilst a number of examples of this land type exist, the strength lies partly in the repeated occurrence within the region. They are characteristic of Northland and rare in a national sense. The unit displays a moderate level of coherence, with the forest clearly reflecting and emphasizing the underlying landform. The vegetation on the crest of the North River Forest ridge, and on the margins of the Waipu Caves Forest is more fragmented, however the natural patterns still display a level of coherence where vegetation has been retained on steeper valley sides and within gullies. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

37 Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. The ranges display a high level of ecological diversity and complexity, with a variety of vegetation types reflecting the topography, drainage patterns and slope aspect. Views of the landscape from the southern quadrants are particularly striking with the scale of the hills clearly evident. This characteristic is heightened both by the contiguous vegetation cover and by the contrast between the steep southern ridge face and the flatness of the valley floor. The majority of the unit displays a high level of naturalness with minimal evident human activity. Past clearance for agriculture is evidenced by the diversity of the kanuka forest, but the contiguous character of the forest lends the ranges a high level of natural character when viewed from the southern quadrants. Fragmentation of the vegetation to the north and north east tends to diminish the apparent naturalness, but the linking fragments relate well to the underlying topographical and hydrological patterns. Vegetation types and patterns are clearly representative of topography, drainage patterns and slope aspect, and this suggests a high level of strength of natural processes. The unit displays a high level of intactness, particularly when viewed from within Helmsdale Valley, and from Waipu Caves Road. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. The landscape displays a high level of legibility in terms of the hydrological processes that have shaped the valleys and ridges. The complexity and spatial arrangement of vegetation reflects the underlying topographical form of the ranges. The presence and strength of the landscape is most immediate and apparent when experienced from Helmsdale Road and Waipu Caves Road. From here the vertical scale of the feature is apparent, and the landform, and vegetation cover provides a strong sense of enclosure. Strongly influenced by light and weather conditions, although light conditions on the southern side tend to be more muted in scope. Ridges create extremely distinctive silhouettes during dawn and dusk. Seasonal influences of flowering trees and other plants. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development 2 The roading network in the area provides reasonably easy access to the unit, and the prevailing sense from the margins is of a rural landscape. The proximity of built development also affects the sense of remoteness. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

38 Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. The ranges tend to be less widely recognised than the nearby Mareretu and Ruakaka Forests but form part of a wider sequence of landscape features. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Final Version following Council decisions February 201

39 Photographs of unit North River Forest from north looking south Waipu Caves Forest Final Version following Council decisions February 201 6

40 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet Unit name OCEAN BEACH DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Ocean beach land type Comment Defined at the northern and southern ends by the elevated units of Kauri Mountain and Whangarei Heads, this unit is simple but dramatic, comprising a curving beach backed by sand dunes. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Holocene coastal dunefield of fixed and active transverse dunes and dune blowouts, with two headlands of Lower Miocene subvolcanic intrusions (Coromandel Group) cutting melange of Cretaceous to Oligocene sedimentary units (Mangakahia and Motatau complexes) in the southern part of the site. Forested areas comprise coastal cliffs cut in Mesozoic greywacke and chert (Waipapa Group); melange of Cretaceous to Paleocene mudstone (Mangakahia Complex); and Lower Miocene andesitic dikes (Coromandel Group). Saltmarsh occupies valley floor wetland on Holocene alluvial deposits; remnant of formerly extensive Holocene swamp behind coastal dune belt. Freshwater wetlands occupy hollow on Holocene fixed sand dunes. Soil Types Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) Primarily comprising drifting or recently stabilized sands, the unit also includes pockets of Marsden sands, Ruakaka loamy peat, Rangiuru clay, Omaiko gravelly silt loam and Hukerenui silt loam on its landward side. Ocean Beach is identified in the Manaia Ecological District PNAP report as Q07/07. The report ranks the feature as a Level 1 site with 1.7 ha forest, 28.6, ha duneland, 1.9 ha wetland, 7.1 ha estuarine, 0.7 rockland, however the landscape area that is the subject of this worksheet only focuses on the beach and a limited portion of the foredune. The site is of significance due to the presence of five At Risk plant species and four regionally significant species. In addition, the site supports numerous species of birds, including four Threatened and eight At Risk species of seabird, as well as one Threatened and two regionally significant reptile species, and one Threatened invertebrate species. Archaeological sites Pa sites are evident at the northern and southern ends of the beach. Heritage Landscapes None known. Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) Ocean Beach extends for a distance of some 6.0 km between Bream Head and Tarakanahi at its southern extreme, to the stream outfall immediately to the south of Kauri Mountain in the north. These features provide containment for the beach which describes a shallow curve, broken only by two small knolls near the southern end. In addition, the features also contribute to the feeling of naturalness and wildness. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

41 The beach is backed by low dunes which in places forms a moderately extensive dunefield. Beyond this, the low lying land has been drained and modified for pasture. Viewed from the beach however, the foredune precludes views inland and focuses attention on the longer views along the beach, or towards the ocean. The landscape has a powerful simplicity engendered by the limited palette of colours, and the scale and form of the beach. It possesses an exposed and open character. Public access is only possible from the Whangarei Head settlement at the extreme south end, and from Kauri Mountain Road at the north end. Activity tends to focus around the settlement whilst the reminder of the beach retains a more remote and empty character. Similarly, built development is focused at the southern end of the beach. EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. Ocean Beach is a representative example of a Northland east coast ocean beach. The contextual landscape features Bream Head and Kauri Mountain provide a clear sense of place and distinguish the beach from other examples. The beach has strong endemic associations due to the native spinifex and other dune species present on the foredunes. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. The beach is similar in scale and character to a limited number of ocean beaches within the region, but retains its own character due to the beach backdrop dunelands and framing topographical features. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. 2 The beach and its immediate backdrop retain a high level of coherence as a result of the simplicity of the components, and form of the feature. There is only limited modification in terms of built form, and this is restricted to the southern end of the beach. The dunes are affected by exotic weeds, but retain a natural appearance. The beach and its setting display a limited degree of diversity and complexity, although the ocean tends to be a dynamic element which provides its own ever changing complexity to the landscape, against the simple foil of the beach. The simplicity of form and colour, and the scale of the beach and its interplay with the sky results in the feature being particularly striking and displaying a high level of vividness. The clarity of the water on sunny days is a significant component of the experience. Whilst the backdrop to the beach has undergone a level of modification as a result on weed invasion, the beach and its immediate fore dune retain a high level of naturalness that is devoid of built development, and exotic vegetation, and maintains strong natural and coastal processes, both hydrological, and ecological. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

42 Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. The settlement at the southern end is generally set back from the coastal edge and only influences the beach to a limited degree. The beach and its immediate backdrop retain a coherence and intactness and does not show signs of modification. The backdrop to the beach does display a greater level of modification and this does, in places detract to some extent from the intactness of the landscape. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. The beach clearly displays the coastal processes, which formed it and continue to shape it. The exposure and openness of the beach provides for a heightened sensory experience, whether on a windy winters day, or a still day in summer. The power and clarity of the waves and the colour of the water also add to this experience. A number of transient values are evident on the beach, including changes evidenced the tides, by changing weather and the seasons, but also by the arrival and departure of migrating birds. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular The beach is accessed from a limited number of locations at the north and south end. At the southern end the sense of remoteness is diminished by the presence of the settlement and proximity to the car park. The visitor is able to experience a greater level of remoteness, which increases as the distance from the access point increases. At the northern end of the beach where greater development has occurred the sense of remoteness and wildness has been diminished. Ocean Beach is a widely recognised as a destination and a surfing location. It has a strong sense of place and is held in high public esteem. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

43 parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Photographs of unit Ocean Beach from look out Final Version following Council decisions February 201

44 Ocean Beach looking south from end of Kauri Mountain Road Final Version following Council decisions February 201

45 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet Unit name OFF-SHORE ISLANDS DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Off-shore islands land type Comment The off-shore islands are highly visible and widely valued features, characterised by steep rocky cliffs and rock formations such as caves and rocky shelves. Geology (including geopreservation sites) The islands represent the heavily eroded remains of large larva domes formed during the Pliocene epoch. They are composed of rhyolite weathered into a complex topography that includes archways, caves, tomos and chimneys, as well as the lofty cliffs. There are very steep cliffs and bluffs that contain the best developed marine eroded arches, tunnels and caves in New Zealand. These extend up to 200 m long and 0m wide in size, and are eroded by the sea along joints in silicified rhyolite breccia. There are completely submerged tunnels of depths up to 0 to 0 metres below sea level, and uplifted to 80 metres above the present sea level. They include air bubble caves, many of which have been named. Tawhiti Rahi contains an uplifted sea cave 12 m deep, 8 m wide and m high. The Poor Knights sea arches and sea caves have been classified as being of national geological importance, and are described as extremely well defined landforms of scientific, educational and scenic value (Kenny & Hayward, 199). Aorangi has a large valley that dips at its northern end to a boulder beach and a flat with salt pans. The Aorangi Island terraces, from the northern coast to Oneho Hill, Puweto Valley floor, are a wellpreserved sequence of eight uplifted marine terraces reaching metres, possibly dating from 700,000 years ago. There are locally derived rounded pebbles on the terraces (the most wellrounded occurring on the highest terrace, in contrast with the present day sea-cliffed coast. The terrace surfaces are modified by prehistoric Mäori horticulture. These terraces are classified as being of regional geological importance by Kenny and Hayward (199), and the stonewall defences around a prehistoric Pa on a rocky knoll above the north end of Shag Bay are classified in the same inventory as being of national significance. The Hen Island Pinnacles, an area of spectacular rock pinnacles including Balancing Rock on the western end of the crest of Hen Island, have been classified as an extremely well defined landform of regional scientific and educational value (Kenny & Hayward, 199). Another feature of geological significance is the prehistoric stone works in the area behind Pukanui Bay and Dragon's Mouth Cove. Numerous free-standing walls, stone rows, heaps, platforms and retaining walls have been constructed from andesite scree that was cleared in preparation for gardening. Because this is one of the best preserved areas of stonework associated with prehistoric gardening in New Zealand, this site has been classified as being of national importance (Kenny & Hayward, 199). The Chickens group of islands, of which the largest are Lady Alice, Whakupuke and Coppermine, are found about 6.8 km north of Taranga. They have steep sided greywacke and andesitic intrusion cliffs, rising up to 2 metres above sea level. Some small gravel Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

46 and boulder beaches are found on their southern coastlines. Coppermine Island contains several sites of geological significance. The western end of Coppermine Island contains an example of porphyry copper deposit (more specifically pyrrhotite-chalcopyrite hydrothermal mineralisation in pyroxene diorite and dacite breccia) that has been classified as being of national importance. The coastal cliffs on the western end of the island are of regional significance in that they represent the only diorite plutons in the region. These appear as dark coloured, coarse grained, pyroxene diorite, roughly elliptical in shape, with weak foliations parallel to the margins, and date from the Miocene (Kenny & Hayward, 199). The shore platforms and coastal cliffs around the island also exhibit examples of albite-epidote and hornblende hornfels, which are of regional geological importance (Kenny & Hayward, 199). Soil Types - Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) Rocky shores are the predominant marine habitat across all the offshore islands in the study area. Many ecosystems contain an abundance and variety of species not found on the mainland coast. Most contain some tropical or subtropical species, presumably due to the influence of the East Auckland Current. The Poor Knights Islands are also noted for their large numbers of petrels. Ten species of petrel are known to breed on the Poor Knights Islands, and petrel population numbers are high. The most abundant of these species is the Bullers shearwater. The Poor Knights Islands are the only breeding place for this species. The other common resident sea birds are gannets, which nest on the Sugar Loaf and the Pinnacles. Fairy prions also nest on the islands. Although beyond the scope of this report, it is pertinent to note that there is a high degree of endemism in the terrestrial biota on the Poor Knights, due to the islands' separation from the mainland during the last period of glaciation. These include numerous endemic insects, including weta species. Some of the plant species exhibit features not found elsewhere in the same species, such as particularly large leaves or unusual growth forms. The Poor Knights Islands have been identified as an area of significant conservation value. Unlike the Poor Knights Islands, the Hen and Chickens Island were connected to the mainland during the last glacial period. However, these islands are also important because of their terrestrial fauna, specifically their bird populations, which include forest species that are rare or endangered elsewhere. There are also significant reptile populations, including tuatara, and ten species of lizard (DoC, 199). The Hen and Chickens Islands have been identified as an area of significant conservation value. Hauturu supports some 70 plant species including 90 fern varieties it is the largest remaining native forest area in New Zealand unmodified by browsing animals and man (Hauraki Gulf Maritime Park Board, 198). As a predator-free nature reserve, Hauturu plays an important role in the conservation of rare and endangered bird species, which nest and breed on the island. While the island is most significant in its conservation of terrestrial bird species, and number of marine birds also occur on the island. These include northern blue penguins, flesh footed shearwaters, white-fronted terns, gannets, Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

47 Bullers shearwater, diving petrels, grey-faced petrels, fairy prions, fluttering shearwaters and little shearwaters. Less frequently observed birds include the wandering albatross, black browed mollyhawk, shy (Salvin's) mollyhawk, giant petrel, Cape pigeon, black-winged petrel, Arctic skua, common diving petrel, and whitefaced storm petrel. A small population of the endangered brown teal is found on the Hauturu. Ten reptile species and two species of bats also occur on the island, as does a species of giant weta, found only there. The Mokohinau Islands contain a variety of marine habitats, including broken rock, boulder beaches, sandy sediments, and kelp forests. These contain a large diversity of marine species. The islands are particularly noted for their high diversity of encrusting invertebrates and fish. The islands are the closest to Auckland to contain a subtropical element in their marine biota (Auckland Regional Council, 199). The coastal waters around the islands are renowned for their larger marine life particularly marlin, shark, kingfish and hapuku. Fanal Island (7 hectares) is the least modified of the Mokohinau Islands with respect to its terrestrial environment, and is surrounded by cliffs up to 10 m high. Half of the island is covered in mountain flax but the remainder mainly consists of houpara and young kohe kohe. Fanal, Flax, Trig and Groper Islands are all wildlife sanctuaries. Burgess Island (2 hectares) is the site of a lighthouse station. All of the islands have suffered from naturally occurring bush fires and the resulting vegetation is fairly stunted. The cliff vegetation within the coastal environment is the habitat of several threatened plant species. A number of species of coastal and sea birds breed on most of the islands and stacks in the group (Auckland Regional Council, 199). In addition to a range of native terrestrial birds, eight species of reptiles occur, including a small endangered skink. Rare beetles have also been identified on the islands (Hauraki Gulf Maritime Parks Board, 198). The area has been selected by the Department of Conservation as an Area of Significant Conservation Value. Archaeological sites Bruce Hayward reports in Prehistoric history of the Poor Knights Islands, Northern New Zealand as follows: Fifty-two prehistoric archaeological sites are recorded from the Poor Knights Islands. Two pa are present on each of the main islands - Tawhiti Rahi and Aorangi, and one on smaller Aorangaia. All five pa have high stone retaining walls that probably had defensive purposes. Most sites are terraces and/or stonework features that were produced during cultivation activities, but some smaller habitation sites are also recognised. The extent of these cultivation-related sites suggests that virtually all the flat and gently sloping land (10 ha) on the Poor Knights was cultivated at one time or other in the prehistoric period. Despite this large area that has been used for cultivation, only six kumara storage pits are present on the islands. This could mean that the islands were usually abandoned in winter, but equally it may indicate that the islands' temperate climate allowed year round kumara cultivation. Shell midden is sparse on the islands, reflecting the lack of beaches and the fact that the intertidal rocks are mostly inaccessible cliffs. Three unusual, square to subcircular bowls, each c. 0.2m diameter and up to 0.2m deep, are carved into the tops of large boulders in three separate locations on Aorangi. The extent of cultivations and the fairly uniform 10 to 200 year age of most of the forest cover, indicates that prehistoric forest clearance on the Poor Knights was fairly complete and the resulting impact on the fauna would also have been enormous. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

48 Heritage Landscapes Refer to above Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) A number of islands are included within this Land Type including islands within the Poor Knights group, the rocky islets to the south (High Peak Rock and Sugarloaf Rock), Islands within the Hen and Chickens group including Sail Rock, and Mokohinau Island group. The Poor Knights Islands form a scattered group of islands roughly orientated north-south 18 km from the nearest mainland and 21 km north east of Tutukaka Harbour. There are two large islands, Tawhiti Rahi (129 ha) and Aorangi (66 ha), with numerous smaller islets, stacks and rocks. These are almost entirely bounded by cliffs (up to 20 m above sea level), which drop below the water surface to depths of 0 to 100 m where loose boulders lie on a sandy flat. The Pinnacles (two islets surrounded by five smaller stacks and rocks), found 6 km to the south, and the Sugarloaf, a solitary rock 7.7 km to the south, are also included in the Poor Knights Island group. The Hen and Chickens Islands are a group of islands only 20 kilometres out to sea from the Whangarei Harbour entrance. The largest island (Taranga) is 7 hectares in size. It is composed of andesitic breccia and flows with very steep cliffs and bluffs rising to 17 metres. The northern shores are constantly buffeted by heavy swells, and rise as steep V-sided valleys to the deeply weathered peaks. The islands generally display similar characteristics, forming clusters of rocky islands with small islets. They are largely bounded by steep cliffs and bluffs along the waterline, with vertically striated or sculpted rock. Caves and rock stacks are common. Some of the larger islands have recognizable silhouettes with prominent peaks and headlands. The profile of Taranga, with its rocky pinnacles echoes the profile of Manaia when viewed from the south west. The islands are vegetated with a dense low indigenous tree and shrub cover. Where the islands are edged with steep slopes, vegetation flows down these slopes almost to water level and has the appearance of being draped over the landform. The islands are unaffected by built development, however fifty-two prehistoric archaeological sites are recorded on the Poor Knights Islands and these island have significant cultural importance to Maori. EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. Like the islands of the Hauraki Gulf, the island off the Northland coast are highly distinctive and representative of the east coast. They are essential component of the character of the coast and demonstrate strong endemic associations. Whilst a number of examples of this land type exist, the strength lies partly in the repeated occurrence within the region. They are characteristic of Northland and rare in a national sense. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. The islands display a high level of coherence with the natural vegetation patterns clearly reflecting the underlying topography. The island have a strongly natural appearance. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

49 Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. The ranges display a high level of ecological diversity and complexity, with a variety of vegetation types reflecting the topography, drainage patterns and slope aspect. The naturalness of the islands, their scale and dramatic cliffs and rock formations are particularly striking and highly memorable. The colour of the sea varies, but on clear days, the vivid aquamarine colour of the ocean further heightens the vividness of the features. The unit displays a high level of naturalness with minimal evident human activity. Vegetation types and patterns are clearly representative of topography, drainage patterns and slope aspect, and this suggests a high level of strength of natural processes. The islands display a very high level of intactness. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. The islands display a high level of legibility in terms of the the coastal and hydrological processes that have shaped their form including the sculpted rock formations, stacks and caves. The complexity and spatial arrangement of vegetation reflects the underlying topographical form of the unit. Whilst dependent on the weather conditions, the islands are generally perceived as highly distinctive, dramatic and attractive. Their location engenders a sense of exposure and vulnerability. Strongly influenced by light and weather conditions, the islands display considerable and varied values. Ridges create extremely distinctive silhouettes during dawn and dusk. Seasonal influences of flowering trees and other plants, including pohutukawa and poor knights lilies. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development The distance of the islands from the mainland reduces the number of visitors, although regular trips are scheduled to the poor knights from Tutukaka. The sense of remoteness and wildness is very high. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

50 Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. The off-shore islands are widely recognised and valued by the wider community and contribute in a significant sense to the sense of place Cultural associations associated with the unit are very high. The islands are also valued as a recreational resource, both for fishing in some areas, and as a marine reserve around the Poor Knights. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Final Version following Council decisions February 201 6

51 Photographs of unit Poor Knights Islands Poor Knights Islands Final Version following Council decisions February 201 7

52 View to west end of Taranga (Hen and Chickens Islands) View of Marotere Islands (Hen and Chickens) from east Final Version following Council decisions February 201 8

53 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Bays and headlands land type Low coastal escarpment land type Bays and headlands land type Reefs and islands land type Unit name ORUAEA BAY TO NGUNGURU RIVER Comment This combination of land types creates a rugged and dramatic landscape that reflects the exposed and wild character of the coast. The cliffs and escarpments are punctuated by bays enclosed by headlands, rocky shelves and reefs. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Soil Types Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) The unit includes cliffed coastal headlands in Waipapa Terrane greywacke, and steep coastal headlands, hillcountry and island in Waipapa Terrane greywacke. The predominant soil type within the unit is Marua clay loam whilst Whakapara mottled clay loam is present within gully bottoms. The unit contains a number of sites identified within the Whangaruru Ecological District PNAP report. These are as follows: Q06/070 (Matapouri Coastal Remnants) This Level 1 site comprises 81 ha of forest, and 1 ha of shrubland. The significance of the site is due to the high diversity of animal and plant species, several of which are threatened or regionally significant (Fireweed Senecio scaberulus (Nationally Endangered), Fuchsia procumbens (Sparse), large leaved milk tree (Sparse), Hebe Whangarei (Regionally Significant) and Psilotum nudum (Regionally Significant). Kukupa (Gradual Decline). The site is an example of a habitat type which is rare nationally, with a relatively high diversity of coastal forest types and is representative site for totara pohutukawa coastal forest, pohutukawa puriri coastal forest, pohutukawa nikau coastal forest, kauri rimu coastal forest, kauri pohutukawa coastal forest, kauri pohutukawa rimu coastal forest, and kowhai pohutukawa puriri coastal forest. Q06/09 (North Gable Remnants) This Level 1 site comprises ha of forest The site is an example of a rare forest type of limited distribution in Northland, which provides habitat for threatened and regionally significant plants and animals including the threatened fireweed Senecio scaberulus (Nationally Endangered), Myrsine aquilonia (Sparse), parapara (Sparse), tawapou (Regionally Significant) and the Northland endemic fern Asplenium northlandicum (Regionally Significant), NI brown kiwi (Serious Decline), Kukupa (Gradual Decline), Northern little blue penguin (Gradual Decline), pied shag (Sparse) roost site, and bellbird (Regionally Significant). Q06/09 (South Gable Remnants) This Level 1 site comprises 28 ha of forest and ha of shrubland. It is composed of several coastal forest and shrubland remnants on the cliffs of the South Gable headland, and the adjacent Rocky Bay. The northern remnant is separated from the other remnants, and is dominated by pohutukawa, with kauri common on the ridge. Kowhai is frequent throughout, with occasional totara and rimu. There is a small Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

54 clearing in its centre, with ti kouka and the odd nikau growing. The northern remnant on the South Gable is dominated by pohutukawa. The site is of significance due to the presence of a high diversity of coastal vegetation types, which are rare nationally, and contains one of the best examples of coastal forest in the District. It is also a representative site for pohutukawa kauri coastal forest, pohutukawa coastal forest, kanuka/manuka houpara coastal shrubland, houpara karaka pohutukawa coastal forest. Q06/099 (Rehuotane Headland) This site comprises and area of 62 ha of forest, and 72 ha of shrubland. It is significant due to the presence of Presence of several threatened and regionally significant species, including Hibiscus aff. trionum (Nationally Endangered/Taxanomically Indeterminate), Calystegia marginata (Sparse), Metrosideros carminea (Regionally Significant) and Olearia albida (Regionally Significant), long-tailed bat (Nationally Vulnerable), matuku (Nationally Endangered), kukupa (Gradual Decline), NI fernbird (Sparse), NI tomtit (Regionally Significant), banded kokopu (Regionally Significant), and koaro (Regionally Significant). There are past records of kiwi. Although modified in places, the site is a relatively large coastal forest area for the District, and is a forest type which is rare in Northland. It is representative site for pohutukawa houpara coastal forest, kanuka/manuka kauri rimu coastal forest, taraire coastal forest, and rimu taraire totara coastal forest. Archaeological sites Pa sites are evident on prominent headlands and high points. Heritage Landscapes None known. Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) The unit extends from the southern end of Whananaki Sandspit to the entrance to the Ngunguru River a rocky convoluted coastline which comprises prominent rocky headlands which separate contained bays. The coastal edge is dominated by steep coastal banks and cliffs with reef outcrops and rocky outcrops. The character of the open portion of the coast is wild and exposed, whilst some shelter is afforded within the bays, such as the Tutukaka Harbour, Matapouri Inlet and Horseshoe Bay where a strong sense of enclosure is experienced. Extensive pockets of pohutukawa are visible on coastal banks and headlands, whilst in places, forest and shrubland flows down to the ocean from inland. The sequence of sandy bays and rocky coast displays a complexity and strength that characterises and symbolizes the eastern Northland coast. With the exception of the area around the Tutukaka settlement, the majority of built form is contained within the bays, although more recent development has seen the subdivision of land between the bays and the construction of scattered dwellings on elevated cliff tops and landward backdrop. In places Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

55 development is highly visible, with prominent cuts associated with accessways. In places where built development, where development is situated amongst vegetation and is of a simple form and dark and recessive colour, it has been integrated more successfully. EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. The sequence of elements including rocky headlands, vegetated coastal slopes and beaches, with limited and localize pockets of built development is very characteristic of the eastern northland coast. The concentration of vegetation, including pohutukawa on the coastal flank is a powerful contributing theme and highly representative. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure Although this land type is common locally, it is rare in the national context. The unit displays a moderate level of coherence, with elements such as the coastal cliffs and vegetated coastal slope, and the linking flow of vegetation down to the coast enhancing the coherence. The coastal elements such as the pattern of rocky headlands, shoals and islets, and the interplay between these elements and the ocean displays a high level of coherence. The intrusion of built development onto prominent locations such as headlands or elevated mid and upper slopes has resulted in the diminishing of coherence, as has the progressive erosion of vegetation patterns. Despite this, the scale and rugged power of the coastal edge and its associated features, particularly where coastal vegetation frames the edge or extends inland, ensures that a relatively unbroken margin along the coast maintains a high level of coherence. Bush remnants, coastal vegetation and dune vegetation displays a high level of diversity and complexity. In addition, the coastline displays a complexity and diversity whilst also maintaining a high level of coherence. The indented rocky coastline, beaches and framing islets, along with the colour of the sea is particularly memorable and are highly symbolic of the area. Where coastal riparian vegetation is present, the vividness of the unit is further enhanced. Although the majority of the coast maintains a high level of visual absorption capability a consequence of the complexity of the coastal edge and landform, strong landscape patterns and vegetation patterns, modification resulting from agricultural practices and building development is evident along the coastal margin. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

56 services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Historically, this modification has created the representative Northland coastal character, however at the same time it diminishes the influence of natural (ecological) processes and ecological patterns. More recent subdivision development for lifestyle blocks has resulted in further modification in the landscape character of this part of the coast, for example with the planting of olive trees, or with facilitated revegetation. This latter modification is a continuation of a process that has been evident over the past 20 0 years where economic drivers has resulted in large areas of the coastal hills being allowed to regenerate into shrubland and forest. Residential pockets around Whangaumu Bay, Tutukaka, Wooleys Bay, Matapouri and Sandy Bay display high levels of modification and diminished naturalness. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. With the exception of pockets of development, the coastal margin retains a high level of intactness. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. The coastal margin clearly demonstrates the formative and ongoing coastal processes. Visually the unit is very striking, but as with the appreciation of the smell and sound of the coast, the visual qualities are dependant on weather conditions. This said, the unit does offer very distinctive sensory opportunities. The coastal character of the unit, and its exposure to prevailing winds means that its character and qualities vary with the seasons, and weather. The flowering of pohutukawa and kowhai is also a notable transient value. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. Although it is possible to gain a sense of remoteness within the smaller bays where public access is limited. Where Matapouri Road provides easy access, and near the settlements opportunities for the experiencing of remoteness are limited. The eastern Northland coast possesses a distinct character and quality that is valued by the wider community and attracts holiday-makers and tourists during throughout the year. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. The coast is highly valued by the community for recreation and this can translate to a spiritual affinity. Final Version following Council decisions February 201

57 These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Photographs of unit View north to Sheltered Bay and Oruaea Bay Final Version following Council decisions February 201

58 Looking north from Middle Gable Entrance to Tutukaka Harbour Final Version following Council decisions February 201 6

59 Northland Regional Landscape Assessment Worksheet Unit / Landscape Ref No. DESCRIPTION AND CHARACTERISATION Component Land Types Central rolling hills; strongly undulating land type Unit name OTAIKA VALLEY BUSH TO TE WAIITI FOREST Comment The unit forms an island of elevated and vegetated land, which influences the character of the landform most notably when viewed from the south on State Highway 1 and from Otaika Valley Road. Geology (including geopreservation sites) Soil Types Ecology (including protected vegetation / features, PNAP Level 1 and 2 sites) Fault block of Torlesse Terrane greywacke and argillite capped by (unknown probably Te Kuiti Group and Northland Allochthon), and Kerikeri Volcanics basaltic lava flows in the vicinity of Cemetery Road. Upper slopes of the unit are overlain with Rangiora clay loam and silty clay loam, whilst the soils of the lower slopes comprise Te Ranga steepland soils, light brown clay loam and stony clay loam. The site is identified within the Whangarei Ecological District PNAP report at Q07/02. It is a Level 1 site and comprises 8. ha of forest, and 10 ha of shrubland. The site is of significance due to its scale as a large area of forest with a high diversity of vegetation types. The site contains 9 ecological units; the highest number recorded within the Whangarei Ecological District. The forest is a representative site for kauri forest, kanuka/manukatanekaha-towai forest, kanuka-manuka forest, taraire-totara forest, puriri forest, rewarewa-taraire forest, kanuka/manuka-totara forest, tanekhaha forest, tanekeha-totara forest, kauri-tanekaka forest and puriri-totara forest. It is also the only site in the Ecological District where kanuka/manuka- -towai forest, puriri-towai forest, matai-taraire-towai forest, karakapuriri forest, kanuka-manuka-puriri forest, tanekaka-kauri forest, manuka-tanekaha shrubland, puriri-tanekaha-taraire forest and kanuka/manuka-tanekaha forest have been recorded. Archaeological sites Heritage Landscapes The Ruarangi Block to the north is known to have significant archaeological and cultural values and it is anticipated that these may also apply to the unit. Numerous pa sites are recorded on peaks within the unit. None known. Landscape characterisation (including the identification of any specific characteristics) Located to the south of Whangarei City, the Otaika Valley bush, or Te Wai-iti forest forms a visible feature for travelers approaching the city from the south. It occupies a landform, which rises to a maximum height of some 2 metres. Aligned approximately south east north west, parallel to Otaika Valley Road, the hills are some km in length, but only a maximum of approximately 2.0 km wide. They form the catchment boundary between the Otakia Stream and Te Wai-iti Stream. The steep forested hillside which forms the southern edge of the hills dominates the Otaika valley and presents a strongly natural appearance with a near contiguous cover of vegetation. The hills are also visible from State Highway 1 travelling north. Final Version following Council decisions February 201 1

60 Viewed from the north and north east, the forest is less evident, and is seen in the context of the Winstones Otaika Quarry and pine plantations to the north. The edge of the forest is visible, as it is when viewed from the west, and whilst it lacks the drama of the southern side of the hills, hints at a more extensive forested area over the ridge beyond. EVALUATION Criteria Rank Comment Natural Science Factors Representativeness Natural landscapes are clearly characteristic of the area, district or region. The key components of the landscape will be present in a way that defines the character of the place and distills its character and essence. Endemic associations. The Otaika Valley bush, forms one of the sequence of forested hills that characterises the Northland landscape. Along with Pukenui and Parihaka it provides a strong and natural to the Whangarei urban centre. Rarity Natural features are unique or rare in the region or nationally, and few comparable examples exist. The landscape forms one of a number of forested hills that display little modification from built development. They contribute to and characterize the landscape. Along with the other forested hills, they relate strongly to each other to form a landscape of considerable drama and presence. Aesthetic Values Coherence The patterns of land cover and land use are largely in harmony with the underlying natural pattern of the landform of the area and there are no significant discordant elements of land cover or land use. Diversity & Complexity The elements contributing to overall landscape character are diverse and complex (particularly in ecological terms) without creating disharmony. Vividness Natural features and landscape are widely recognised across the community and beyond the local area and remain clearly in the memory; striking landscapes are symbolic of an area due to their recognisable and memorable qualities. Naturalness How affected by human activity is the landscape? Does human activity intrude on the landscape? Eg. Presence of buildings and associated built development. Presence of infrastructure services. Extent of indigenous forest cover. Homogeneity of exotic vegetation. Presence / extent of modified agricultural land use. Strength of natural processes / ecological patterns. Unmodified and legible physical relief and landform. Presence of water. Intactness Natural systems are intact and aesthetically coherent and do not display significant visual signs of human modification, intervention or manipulation, The landscape displays a high level of coherence. It reflects the form and pattern of the underlying topography with a largely contiguous vegetation cover of some 00 ha in area. The coherence of the feature is most evident from the south, from where virtually no built development is visible. The forest displays a high level of diversity and complexity whilst visually maintaining coherence and harmony. The landscape lacks the extensive visual catchment of other similar vegetated features and therefore appears less dramatic over a wider area. Within the visual catchment of the Otaika Valley however the landscape dominates the area and is a memorable feature that characterises the area. The landscape possesses a high level of naturalness with little evident built development or infrastructure services. The contiguous forest cover contrasts with the rural character of the surrounding landscape and this heightens the perception of its naturalness. The PNAP report indicates that natural processes and ecological patterns are strong and in good health. The Otaika Valley bush forms a large area of forest with a high diversity of vegetation types. The contiguous vegetation, although modified in the past for logging, Final Version following Council decisions February 201 2

61 visually intact and highly aesthetic natural landscapes. Experiential Values Expressiveness The legibility of the landscape. Natural features clearly demonstrate the natural processes that formed them. Sensory qualities (These are landscape phenomena as directly perceived and experienced by humans, such as the view of a scenic landscape, or the distinctive smell and sound of the foreshore). Transient Values The consistent and repeated occurrence of transient features that contributes to the character, qualities and values of the landscape; landscapes are widely recognised for their transient features and the contribution that these make to the landscape. displays a high level of intactness with aesthetically coherent vegetation patterns. The landscape displays a high level of legibility in terms of the hydrological processes that have shaped the valleys and ridges. The complexity and spatial arrangement of vegetation reflects the underlying topographical form of the ranges. Primarily limited to the smells and sounds of the forest, with occasional views to the wider landscape from high points within the forest. Strongly influenced by light and weather conditions. Seasonal influences of the blooming of trees and shrubs. Remoteness / Wildness Does the landscape display a wilderness character, remote from and untouched by human presence? Eg. Sense of remoteness Accessibility Distance from built development The Otaika Valley Walkway, a DoC maintained access bisects the unit between Otaika valley Road and Raumanga Heights Road. The proximity of the landscape to settlement and the ease of access diminishes the wildness and remote experience. Some sense of remoteness can be gained within the forest however. Shared and recognised values Natural features and landscape are widely known and valued by the immediate and wider community for their contribution to a sense of place leading to a strong community association with, or high public esteem for the place. Spiritual, cultural and historical associations Natural features and landscapes can be clearly and widely known and influenced by their connection to the spiritual, cultural and historical valued in the place and includes associative meanings and associative activities valued by the community. These can include both activities and meanings associative meanings are spiritual, cultural or social associations with particular landscape elements, features, or areas, whilst associative activities are patterns of social activity that occur in particular parts of a landscape, for example, popular walking routes or fishing spots. The proximity of the unit to the urban centre and settled areas ensures a high degree of recognition. Similarly, as a backdrop to Otaika Valley, the forest has gained a strong community association. Consultation was initiated during the mapping process, but has not led to any feedback within the required period. The bush contains a number of pa sites and adjoining areas are known to have significant cultural values. Rank scale between 1 (low) and (high) Land Types Coastal cliffs / escarpment Low escarpment Bays and headlands Beach Dune complex Reefs and islands Estuarine / inlet Open harbour Coastal plain Rolling hills Steep hills; moderate to high relief Final Version following Council decisions February 201

62 Ranges; high relief Strongly rolling land Low rolling land Valley floors and flats Plains Volcanic cones River mouth Wetland Watercourses Lakes and water bodies Photographs of unit View to Otaika Valley bush from State Highway 1 Final Version following Council decisions February 201

63 View to Otaika Valley bush from south west View to Otaika Valley bush from south east, with Winstones Quarry. Final Version following Council decisions February 201