Marlborough Sounds Resource Management Plan 21 August 2008 the Sounds. Some residual concerns remain about the effects of ship-generated waves on marine biology, shoreline geomorphology, shoreline structures, recreational values, small boat safety and Maori cultural values. The Council continues to monitor these values and effects. Recent indications are that, since the introduction of the fast ferry speed restrictions, there has been some improvement and recovery in the condition of the environment, particularly around the coastal margin of the Sounds. The potentially adverse effects of ship-generated waves need to be managed in a manner that provides for the continued economic, social and cultural wellbeing of all people and communities, while sustaining the coastal environment. This is particularly so for the future as It Is likely that shipping activity within Tory Channel and Queen Charlotte Sound will increase. International regulations for roll-on roll-off passenger ferries have introduced enhanced safety requirements regarding ship stability for vessels carrying more than 400 people. This will ultimately mean that larger ships are expected to be operating along the inter- island ferry route. This along with industry trends towards the use of larger, faster ships means that there is potential to generate greater effects in future than those experienced presently. Shipping activity in other areas of the Marlborough Sounds such as Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds is different to that of Queen Charlotte Sound and Tory Channel. The majority of shipping within Pelorus and Kenepuru Sounds is coastal or local in nature and relates to the transport of tourists, logs, livestock as well as fishing and marine farming fleets. These vessels are generally smaller and travel at speeds that are slower than ships such as the fast ferries and conventional ferries. It is considered unlikely that other areas of the Sounds will develop the type or extent of shipping experienced in Tory Channel or Queen Charlotte Sound given the lack of, or potential, to develop a deep water port within these other areas. At this stage therefore, there is currently little justification for the regulation of shipping activity in these areas. In addition there is an increasing number of larger recreational vessels using the Sounds waters, some of which travel at speeds similar to the fast ferries. Although it is not proposed to control-these vessels at this stage, the potential for adverse effects from their wake may need to be assessed in the future in light of their growing numbers. 9.5.2 Objective and Policies Objective 1 To ensure that the environmental effects of ship- generated waves and speed are managed so that potential conflict with other coastal users and values is avoided, remedied or mitigated. Policy 1.1 Enable as a permitted activity the continuing use of the National Transportation Route and Queen Charlotte Sound by ships travelling up to 15 knots. Policy 1.2 Enable as a permitted activity the continuing use of the National Transportation Route for existing inter-island shipping services up to speeds that reflect the operating regime that was current at 14 November 2002. 9 - 20