13. Use of the Coastal Environment Volume One help resource users determine whether these values will be adversely affected by the proposed activity. While the Council has undertaken various assessments and studies to inform the areas that have been mapped in Policy 13.1.1, not all areas within the coastal environment have been assessed. This is because for certain values, such as significant marine biodiversity, the information is incomplete. Where information becomes available this can be reflected through plan changes under the First Schedule process of the RMA. [R, C, D] 13.M.4 Regional and district rules A range of regional and district rules enable the use of the various coastal management zones as permitted activities, especially where there are minimal adverse effects on the environment. These activities will be subject to standards, including amenity based standards. Rules will also require coastal permits for activities in the Coastal Marine, Port and Port Landing Area and Marina Zones, where these activities need a greater level of control. These rules are described further under the subsequent sections of this chapter. Additionally, other chapters of the MEP also have regional rules for some activities that may affect the coastal environment; for example, discharges to air, land and water. Descriptions of these regional rules are set out in other chapters. [C] 13.M.5 Affected party status The Harbourmaster and Maritime New Zealand will be treated as affected parties in respect of any resource consent application for a coastal permit, to enable an assessment of any potential impacts on safe navigation of boats. [C] 13.M.6 Other legislation As a harbour authority, the Council also has responsibilities for navigation and public safety within the harbour limits. The Council's Harbourmaster carries out these functions under Local Government Act bylaws, delegations under the Maritime Transport Act and associated maritime rules (or any successor to these). Bylaws also impose additional constraints on speed, e.g. the five knot harbour speed limit. Recreational activities Marlborough’s coastal environment is valued not only for its natural qualities but also for a wide range of recreational activities including swimming, fishing, diving, boating, kayaking, picnicking and walking. Marlborough’s coastal environment, especially the Marlborough Sounds, is a centre of recreational activity for both local residents and visitors. This includes the use of many holiday homes located within the Marlborough Sounds from which recreational activity occurs. Consequently, the coastal environment (which includes the coastal marine area) plays an essential role in the social wellbeing of New Zealand in general and the Marlborough community in particular. This in turn has economic benefits for Marlborough, as many of these recreational activities rely on local businesses for the provision of services and goods. Issue 13B – Providing for social wellbeing by ensuring people and communities can carry out recreational activities. Recreation is one of the most extensive uses undertaken within Marlborough’s coastal environment, especially within the Marlborough Sounds. Recreational activities range from active to passive pursuits. Much of the value placed on the coastal marine area is derived from the fact that it is the largest area of public open space in Marlborough and the public have a long held 13 – 8