Wairau/ Awatere Resource Management Plan 12.5.3 Methods of Implementation Zoning Zones will identify existing rural residential areas. Rules Rules will be used to ensure conflicts are minimised between residential and rural activities. Rules will establish minimum environmental standards. Plan Changes New localities will be accommodated through plan change procedures. Zoning and rules are the appropriate method of recognising existing developments. The Council does not believe that it should predetermine the location of new localities, rather that applications be guided through plan change procedures assessed on merit and guided by the objectives and policies of this Plan. 12.6 Skifield Area 12.6.1 Issue Managing the effects of skifield activity in a sensitive alpine environment. The Rainbow Skifield is located high in the St Arnaud Range close to the District boundary above the Wairau River. It is acknowledged that the substantial site development has left the terrain in a highly modified state. The land is owned by the Crown and managed by the Department of Conservation under the Conservation Act 1987. The skifield and access road have been developed and continue to develop under a licence from the Department of Conservation. The Rainbow Skifield is the only commercial skifield in the north of the South Island. It is an important recreation/ tourism attraction for Marlborough and the adjacent Nelson area, with the potential for further expansion. In recognition of the unique use of this sensitive area the Rainbow Skifield area has a specific skifield zoning. The area included in the Skifield Zone is sensitive for a number of reasons. It is an area of high landscape and ecological importance with only limited ability to absorb change and development. It is also a highly unstable area as erosion potential and soil/ slope instability is very high. The development of the skifield is recognised as having modified this sensitive environment. The Department of Conservation has an important role ensuring the continuing integration of the commercial operation, including any intended expansion or upgrading of facilities, in a sustainable manner. 12 - 20