Marlborough Sounds Resource Management Plan Resource Consent applications could potentially affect the values of sites which are of significance to tangata whenua, (for example an activity which disturbs the seabed could affect the fisheries values of mahinga maataitai). The applicant will need to show whether any actual or potential adverse effects can be avoided, remedied or mitigated (in that order of preference). This could be achieved through changes in design of the proposal, negotiation with tangata whenua over appropriate compensation, or conditions on the resource consent. The tangata whenua group affected may be an iwi authority, but is more likely to be a smaller group such as a land-owing trust, a hapu, or a whanau. The marae are active living centres of the Maori community with potential for development and change. The range of activities undertaken on marae is expected to be wider than, for example, residential sites. It is considered that zonings (Residential or Rural) may unduly hinder the functioning and development of marae. It is considered to be necessary and appropriate to provide for special‘marae’ identification with sufficient flexibility to enable marae to function and develop whilst protecting important amenities of surrounding environments. 6.2 Heritage The Marlborough Sounds are rich in both Maori and European history. The early inhabitants of New Zealand were a sea-faring people. When canoe provided the major means of transportation practically all habitation was located along the coast. Throughout New Zealand the majority of archaeological sites are concentrated in coastal areas reflecting the fishing, hunting, gathering and horticultural opportunities that these areas offered. Buildings with heritage significance are located in Robin Hood Bay, Rai Valley and Havelock and Picton townships. The Marlborough Sounds has a number of historic and notable trees the majority of which are located in or around the townships. These trees are an important contribution to both the heritage and the visual character of the Sounds. Heritage resources contribute to environmental quality, and consequently the community’s wellbeing, in many ways. The ICOMOS New Zealand Charter for the Conservation of Places of Cultural Heritage Value describes places of cultural heritage value. “In general such places: i) Have lasting values and can be appreciated in their own right; ii) Teach us about the past and the culture of those who came before us; iii) Provide the context for community identity whereby people relate to the land and to those who have gone before; iv) Provide variety and contrast in the modern world and a measure against which we can compare the achievements of today; and v) Provide visible evidence of the continuity between past, present and future.” 6 4