6: Natural Character Volume One 17 distinct coastal terrestrial areas based on land typology. For each area, abiotic systems and landforms, biotic systems and experiential attributes were assessed. Freshwater values within the coastal environment were identified in the coastal terrestrial areas. The analysis of natural character was undertaken at a range of scales from broad (i.e. at the Marlborough Sounds or South Marlborough level) through to a more detailed scale, which in some cases was bay-level assessment. As a result, natural character can be perceived at different levels and different scales, depending on the level of information that is available. The scales at which the assessments have been undertaken can be seen in Figure 6.2. Figure 6.2: Natural Character Assessment Scale 6 – 4