Chapter 12 - Rural Environments 12.5.2 Objectives and Policies Objective 1 To adequately provide within the rural zones for a range of persons wishing to live in the rural areas without placing undue demands on existing facilities in the rural areas and without inhibiting or diminishing the life supporting capacity of the soil or the primary productive capacity of the land. Policy 1.1 To prevent the establishment of rural residential development which exacerbates conflicts between rural uses and residential activity. Policy 1.2 Where proposals are received for rural residential developments, preference will be given to locations that minimise the loss of productive soils. Policy 1.3 To provide a specific zone for rural-residential activities, and also provide flexibility within the Rural 4 Zone for part-time or hobby farming uses and intensive farming on small lots. Policy 1.4 Ensure that rural residential developments do not result in a demand for or an extension of urban services. Policy 1.5 Ensure that rural residential developments make adequate provision for sewage and stormwater disposal. The Deferred Township Residential Zone at Rarangi will only develop when a permanent potable water supply has been installed and service connection made to all properties in both the Deferred Township Residential Zone and the Township Residential Zone. Policy 1.6 To ensure that when development occurs the full costs of remedying or mitigating adverse effects on the environment are met. Policy 1.7 To take into account the cumulative adverse effects of rural residential development proposals on the environmental and conservation values of rural areas. Policy 1.8 Further residential development, outside those areas already zoned for residential purposes, shall be assessed against the following matters: • The need to avoid sprawling or sporadic subdivision, use or development in the coastal environment; • The effects of changes in land use from rural to residential on the natural character of the coastal environment; • The likely exposure to natural hazards; • The need to protect coastal ecosystems that are vulnerable to modification; and • The contribution that the area makes to the amenity values found in the coastal environment. The Council believes that it is appropriate to provide for people to live throughout rural areas provided that any adverse effects of the development on the rural environment have been avoided or suitably mitigated. 12 - 19