Wairau/ Awatere Resource Management Plan Cape Campbell to Mirza Creek This area is the least modified coastal environment section along the East Marlborough Coast. It has significant conservation value due to its spectacular scenery and unique geological formations. Though the pea gravel beaches are common to this area they are relatively rare internationally. The Chancet Rocks and the Needles have international significance because of their unique sponge fossil composition. These limestone outcrops are also colonised by the New Zealand Fur Seal. Mirza Creek is of regional significance. The native pingao and banded dotterals near Mirza Creek above mean high water springs line are also significant features. Hectors Dolphins Cloudy and Clifford Bays are of national importance as habitat for vulnerable Hectors Dolphins. The dolphins are a rare and endangered species and can be regarded as having national significance. Other coastal plant communities There are a number of ecologically significant coastal herbfields, shrublands, dunelands and bluff communities known to occur along the east Marlborough coastline. These communities rely on their coastal location for their survival, are a characteristic of the Marlborough coastline, and are prone to modification through direct disturbance such as fire, quarrying, and minor land disturbance activities, as well as invasion by weeds and pests. Refer to Appendix D, Volume Two, for areas of Significant Conservation Value. 9.6 Objectives and Policies Objective 1 To protect habitats, ecosystems and areas of significant conservation value within the coastal environment from the adverse effects of subdivision, use, development and discharges. Policy 1.1 Identify areas of significant ecological value and areas of iwi cultural significance. Policy 1.2 Avoid, as far as practicable, the adverse effects of coastal land and water use on coastal areas of significant conservation value. Policy 1.3 Promote public understanding of the importance of protecting areas of significant conservation value from the adverse effects of activities because of their intrinsic, conservation, social, economic, scientific and education worth, and for their contribution to the natural character of the East Marlborough Coast. Policy 1.4 Maintain and where practicable enhance habitats, ecosystems and areas of significant conservation value. Many of the natural values of the area have, over time, been seriously affected by change. These values are still under threat from introduced plants and animals, inappropriate human activities and nearby land uses which affect water quality. 9 - 8