13. Use of the Coastal Environment Volume One [C] Policy 13.10.25 – Where practicable, the use of non-structural methods for coastal protection work (including planting and beach nourishment) shall be preferred to structural methods. Using non-structural coastal protection methods is preferred over structural methods where this is a practicable option. This policy helps to give effect to Policies 25-27 of the NZCPS. Structural methods artificially stabilise the coastline and may be appropriate where it can be demonstrated that such a solution is the best practicable method for remedying or mitigating the hazard. [C] Policy 13.10.26 – Any proposal for coastal protection structures or works shall demonstrate that: (a) the design, construction and placement of the coastal protection structure will not lead to any of the following effects (either in a temporary, permanent or cumulative manner): (i) undermining of the foundations at the base of the structure; (ii) erosion behind or around the ends of the structure; (iii) settlement or loss of foundation material; (iv) movement or dislodgement of individual structural components; (v) the failure of the coastal protection structure should overtopping by water occur; (vi) offshore or longshore loss of sediment from the immediate vicinity; (vii) any increase in the coastal erosion posed to the coastline in question; and (b) any effects of the work, including effects on water currents, wave action, sediment transport and deposition processes, do not adversely affect waahi tapu sites, natural processes, ecological or amenity values of the coastal marine area beyond the site of the work. It is important that coastal protection works, which are structural in nature, are designed by experts in natural coastal processes. This ensures that the proposed works will not exacerbate the hazard but will achieve what they are designed for and not transfer adverse effects elsewhere. [C] Policy 13.10.27 – Discourage the use of concrete slab retaining walls, sheet piling, car tyres or similar for coastal protection measures and encourage instead the use of materials similar to those found naturally occurring in the area or that can be locally sourced. Many people find the appearance of hard protection works unattractive and inconsistent with the natural character of the coast (and in turn, inconsistent with the provisions of the NZCPS). Retaining walls or similar can also cover or reclaim part of the beach and affect access to the beach. These types of protection structures can have direct and indirect adverse effects on natural character, landscape values, amenity values and public access. It is therefore preferable that materials similar to those naturally occurring in the area to be protected are used. Where this is not practicable, materials that can be sourced locally can also be used. 13 – 32