13. Use of the Coastal Environment Volume One [C, D] Policy 13.3.3 – Ensure that the use of recreational vessels and vehicles does not create a public nuisance, compromise the health and safety of other users or result in adverse effects on the coastal environment. While recreational activity is generally to be encouraged, the use of recreational vessels and vehicles can, by virtue of their speed, noise or associated discharges, become a public nuisance and inappropriate use may pose a risk to both public health and safety and the environment. For recreational vehicles onshore, it may be necessary to prevent their use in some locations, particularly to minimise risks to public health and safety, physical damage to the foreshore area, damage to intertidal areas, direct damage to indigenous flora and/or harm or disturbance of wildlife. [RPS, C] Policy 13.3.4 – Ensure recreational use has priority over commercial activities that require occupation of the coastal marine area in Queen Charlotte Sound, including Tory Channel. (This policy does not apply to areas zoned Port or Marina.) The policy recognises that for Queen Charlotte Sound and Tory Channel, recreational use is significant and is to have a priority over commercial interests that require occupation of the coastal marine area. Recreational use is particularly important in these areas, with a large number of holiday homes being a base for recreation and with good access points in Picton and Waikawa (including through launching ramps and marinas). Historically, activities such as marine farming have been prevented from occurring in these areas because of the extent of recreational activities. The exclusion of Port and Marina Zones in Queen Charlotte Sound acknowledges the establishment of these zones for port and marina activities within which recreational activities may not be appropriate. Methods of implementation The methods listed below are to be implemented by the Council unless otherwise specified. [R, C, D] 13.M.7 Regional and district rules A range of regional and district rules enable recreational activities as permitted activities, especially where there are minimal adverse effects on the environment. These activities will be subject to standards, including amenity based standards. In some cases, a prohibited activity rule may apply to protect recreational use. The rules are described further under the subsequent sections of this chapter. [C, D] 13.M.8 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. 13 – 10