Wharekawa Coast river and catchment management programme

Frequently asked questions

• Why is there currently no river and catchment management programme for the Wharekawa Coast?

  When the catchment area was transferred to the Waikato region in 2010 due to a merger of councils, that now make up Auckland Council, there was no community mandate to rate for such an activity.
• What is river management?

  River management involves maintaining and improving the natural capacity of rivers, erosion protection and habitat to reduce the frequency and impacts of damage, improve water quality and reduce the loss of soils. This may include:

  • erosion protection, by hard (human-made) and soft (using nature i.e. planting) engineering
  • in-stream capacity works (e.g., gravel management and obstruction removal)
  • removal of trees that are at risk of falling and causing obstructions and erosion
  • planting of natives and willow poles to stabilise river banks and improve biodiversity.
• What is catchment management?

  Catchment management involves maintaining and improving soil conservation, water quality and biodiversity. This may include:

  • planning new catchment restoration projects
  • erosion control and prevention, fencing, planting, freshwater wetland protection and restoration, afforestation, and pest plant and animal control.
• How is this work funded?

  River and catchment management programmes are funded through general and targeted rates and with landowner contributions.

  • The percentage of the cost covered by general rates recognises the wider public benefit of the programme.
  • Targeted rates recognise that the programme has a local benefit, therefore much of the cost it funded locally.
  • The targeted rate may depend on the degree of benefit offered (i.e. a differential consideration) provided to a landowner.
  • Landowner contributions may be work in-kind, rather than a monetary contribution. The extent of contributions also depends on the availability of third-party funding.
• I’m a landowner with a river on my property and pay a targeted rate, why do I have to then contribute again to the works done on my land?

  Landowners are responsible for the normal maintenance of rivers and streams on and around their property. Council may assist and oversee complex work ensuring legal compliance with regulations. The agreed programme of work between council and the landowner will also set out responsibilities and funding contributions. In some instances, additional funding or in-kind contributions are required. This acknowledges the direct benefit to the landowner (who pays more) as well as the wider benefit to the community (who contributes to the targeted rate) and makes the ratepayer funds go further.
• Why should a percentage of the cost of a river and catchment management programme in the Wharekawa Coast area come from the general rate, i.e. including from landowners who don’t even live there?

  There are benefits to the whole region, including economic benefits from tourism and farming, recreational opportunities and protection of infrastructure such as state highways, roads and utilities.
• Do I get a say in whether I want to pay rates for a river and catchment management programme?

  Yes. A management programme was identified as a key strategic action in the Wharekawa Coast 2120 Community Plan. This acknowledges that such a programme would be subject to targeted rates. The rates may be set following formal consultation with the community via an Annual Plan by resolution of the council after. This stage will be your opportunity to provide us formal feedback.
• Are stopbanks, pump stations and other infrastructure included as part of the programme?

  No, flood protection capital works are not in scope with this programme as flood infrastructure is much more expensive to plan, construct and maintain. Formal drainage outlets and assets owned by other agencies (such as bridges and culverts) will also be excluded.
• What about stream mouth opening on the coast?

  Natural stream mouths maintenance will be included.
• What benefits are there in having a targeted rate?
  • The programme of works will deliver on the Wharekawa Coast 2120 Community Plan.
  • A consistent, formal works programme at sub-catchment level is established.
  • It enables large-scale works that might not be attainable by individual landowners.
  • Access to advice, expertise and enactment.
  • Leverage for third-party funding.
  • It reflects the benefits to the community as a whole and distributes the costs.
• Why should I engage in this discussion?

  While this is not a referendum, the quality and quantity of feedback we receive will help the council with their decision making.