21 August 2008 Chapter 19 - Water Transportation 19.3 Objectives and Policies Objective 1 Safe, efficient and sustainably managed water transport systems in a manner that avoids, remedies and mitigates adverse effects. Policy 1.1 Avoid, remedy or mitigate the adverse effects of activities and structures on navigation and safety, within the coastal marine ar ea. Policy 1.2 Ensure land based activities and subdivision do not adversely impact on the safety and efficiency of water transportation in the Soun ds. Policy 1.3 Avoid, remedy or mitigate the adverse effects of water transport activities on the natural and physical resources of the Sounds. Policy 1.4 Achieve an appropriate balance between water transportation and other users of the coastal marine area. Policy 1.5 Identify and enable the use of water transport corridors which form a significant part of the transport network. Policy 1.6 Provide for surface water transportation activities which do not have a significant adverse effect on the coastal environment. Policy 1.7 Recognise and allow for those structures, facilities, coastal access and appropriate loading sites where no adequate land transportation is available to serve an area. Policy 1.7 Recognise the following jetties and landing areas as necessary community/ commercial landing areas: Oyster Bay (Port Underwood), Elaine Bay (Tennyson Inlet), Okiwi Bay (Croisilles Harbour), Elmslie Bay (French Pass), Kapowai Bay (d’Urville Island) and Portage. Policy 1.8 Avoid the adverse effects of transporting forestry produce through water by using barges or other vessels rather than rafting techniques. The policies are designed to manage the effects of nearby activities on the water transportation network. Likewise, the policies recognise the adverse effects that can be caused by water transport activities and intend that these effects can be avoided, remedied or mitigated. Policy 19.3.1.3 states the need to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse environmental effects brought about by water transportation activities. It is intended that this be applied to the specific environment as appropriate. For example, Tory Channel is recognised as a transportation route where a certain level of effect is expected and can be withstood. Therefore adverse effects from water transportation here should be mitigated, or where possible, remedied. Policies 19.3.1.7 and 19.3.1.8 recognise those facilities (such as jetties and community landing areas) which are essential to the transportation network of the Marlborough Sounds. The New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement Policy 3.3.1 requires that when classifying activities in the Plan the Council needs to apply a precautionary approach where there is a relative lack of understanding about coastal processes and the effects of activities. 19 - 3