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AUCKLAND INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT PROPOSED SECOND RUNWAY

LANDSCAPE BASELINE REPORT

151023_3346_GL_AIAL Second Runway_Landscape and Urban Design Baseline Report_p.2

Client: Auckland International Airport Limited

Project: Proposed Second Runway

Report: Landscape Baseline Report

Status: Final

Date: 23 October 2015

Author: Gavin Lister and Matthew Jones

Isthmus

PO Box 90 366

Auckland 1142

+64 9 309 7281

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


CONTENTS

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................ 5

INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 7

ANALYSIS OF EXISTING LANDSCAPE .................................................................................... 8

‘Northern Area of Influence’ ............................................................................................... 8

Northern Landscape ........................................................................................................... 8

Natural features ............................................................................................................................ 8

Activities and aesthetics ............................................................................................................... 8

History ........................................................................................................................................... 9

Future airport urban centre .......................................................................................................... 9

Eastern Landscape (Pukaki Creek, Pukaki Lagoon, Crater Hill, Waokauri Creek) .................... 9

Natural features (volcanic craters and tidal creeks) ..................................................................... 9

Activities and aesthetics ............................................................................................................. 10

History and cultural associations ................................................................................................ 10

Natural Character of Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks .................................................................... 11

Western Landscape (Maungataketake headland, Manukau Harbour)................................. 11

Natural features (Manukau Harbour, volcanic features, fossil forest, ecology)......................... 11

Aesthetics .................................................................................................................................... 12

Wider Landscape Context ........................................................................................................... 12

Cultural and historical associations ............................................................................................ 13

Recreational use ......................................................................................................................... 14

Natural Character of the Manukau Harbour coast..................................................................... 14

‘Southern Area of Influence’ ............................................................................................. 16

Southern Landscape (Manukau Harbour and Wiroa Island) ................................................ 16

Natural features (Manukau Harbour, Wiroa Island, ecology, volcanic features) ....................... 16

Aesthetics .................................................................................................................................... 17


Natural Character ....................................................................................................................... 17

South-eastern Landscape .................................................................................................. 18

Natural Features ......................................................................................................................... 18

Aesthetics .................................................................................................................................... 19


Natural character........................................................................................................................ 19


Wider landscape context ............................................................................................................ 19

EVALUATION OF LANDSCAPE SIGNIFICANCE AND NATURAL CHARACTER ........................... 20

Landscape significance ............................................................................................................... 20

Natural Character of the Coastal Environment .......................................................................... 20

Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes ......................................................................... 21

CONSTRAINTS .................................................................................................................. 22

Visibility and ‘audiences’ ............................................................................................................. 22

Landscape constraints ................................................................................................................ 23

CONCLUSIONS .................................................................................................................. 24

‘Northern area of influence’........................................................................................................ 24

APPENDIX 1: SOURCES ...................................................................................................... 25

APPENDIX 2: LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY ................................................... 27


EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

1 This report assesses the existing landscape that would be potentially affected by a proposed

alteration (relocation and/or extension in length) to the Designated Northern Runway at

Auckland International Airport (Proposed Second Runway).

2 For the purpose of the assessment the existing landscape was divided into five geographic

areas:

a) The northern landscape (existing airport land),

b) The eastern landscape (beyond the eastern end of the airport including Pukaki

Creek, Pukaki Lagoon, Waokauri Creek and Crater Hill);

c) The western landscape (beyond the western end of the airport including the

Manukau Harbour and shoreline);

d) The southern landscape (south of the airport including the airport shoreline,

Wiroa Island and Manukau Harbour); and

e) The south-eastern landscape (the eastern shore of the Manukau Harbour in the

vicinity of Puhinui Reserve and beyond).

3 The northern landscape presents few constraints to development. The topography is subdued,

there are few remaining natural or cultural features of any note, the character is strongly

influenced by the adjacency of the existing airport, and much of the area is covered by the

existing designation for the Designated Northern Runway.

4 The eastern landscape has important biophysical, aesthetic and cultural values, and presents

significant constraints. However, the landscape is inwardly focused so that development could

be carried out within airport land close to the edge of Pukaki Creek without significant adverse

effects. Promotion of the eastern landscape’s existing rural character would both maintain the

existing landscape values and minimise reverse sensitivity effects that might arise from

development of the land for sensitive activities which conflict with operation of the Proposed

Second Runway.

5 The western landscape has the highest landscape value and likewise presents significant

constraints. Any reclamation into the Manukau Harbour would potentially affect feeding

grounds for wading birds (refer to the ecological baseline report) and the Ihumatao Fossil Forest

(a significant geological feature) with implications for both landscape and natural character

matters. With regards perceptual aspects, a distinction can be made either side of a line drawn

between the headland at Maungataketake and the Existing Runway: Development inland of such

a line would be confined to a bay where the character is already influenced by the airport,

whereas development seaward of such a line would extend into the wider harbour which would

amplify adverse landscape effects.

6 The southern landscape likewise has important biophysical and aesthetic values, and presents

significant constraints. In contrast with the eastern landscape, the area to the south is open and

has high visibility. Reclamation into the Manukau Harbour would be visually prominent, would

occupy a relatively larger portion of the harbour (including feeding grounds and habitats of

migratory wading birds - refer ecological baseline report), and would result in partial destruction

of Wiroa Island as a coastal feature.


7 The south-eastern landscape similarly has important biophysical, aesthetic and cultural values.

Because of its location, potential effects are more likely to arise from indirect disturbance from

aircraft to wildlife and the aesthetic qualities of the Puhinui Reserve and wildlife sanctuary.


INTRODUCTION

8 Auckland International Airport Ltd (AIAL), as a requiring authority, is seeking to alter an existing

designation of land for the future construction and operation of a Proposed Second Runway

either to the north or south of the Existing Runway and terminals. As part of the process to

prepare the NoR to alter the designation under the Resource Management Act, AIAL is required

(amongst other things) to:

a) Assess the effects that the works will have on the environment and the way in

which these adverse effects can be remedied or mitigated;

b) Consider alternatives; and

c) Outline why the project is reasonably necessary for achieving AIAL’s objectives.

9 This landscape report has been prepared as part of an initial baseline assessment of the

environmental and engineering / cost constraints. The constraints identified will assist in the

later assessment of environment effects, the assessment of alternatives against the Project

Objectives, and in identifying opportunities to avoid, remedy and mitigate potential effects.

10 The Designated Northern Runway is to the north of the airport on an alignment parallel to the

Existing Runway. Recent strategic work has identified that such the Proposed Second Runway

should be 72m further north than the Designated Northern Runway so that taxi-ways can

accommodate new generation planes (such as the Airbus A380), and that it should be longer

than the approved 2150m length in order to provide for more efficient and flexible use of the

airport. Greater length might entail an eastern extension (in the direction of Pukaki Creek) or a

western extension (protruding into Manukau Harbour), or a combination of both. Alternatively,

an option is to construct the Proposed Second Runway on reclaimed land in the Manukau

Harbour south of the Existing Runway. The southern option would include a runway located a

similar distance (some 2050m) from the Existing Runway.

11 To assist the baseline assessment, the landscape was divided into the four geographic areas

depicted on Figure 1 as follows:

Northern landscape (the area between the Manukau Harbour and Pukaki Creek);

Eastern landscape (Pukaki Lagoon volcanic crater, Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks);

Western landscape (Manukau Harbour and Maungataketake);

Southern landscape (Manukau Harbour and Wiroa island); and

South-eastern landscape (eastern shore of Manukau Harbour, Puhinui Reserve).

Figure 1

Landscape Study Area

Figure 2

Geology and Geological Features


ANALYSIS OF EXISTING LANDSCAPE

‘Northern Area of Influence’

Northern Landscape

12 The ‘northern landscape’ comprises the land owned by Auckland International Airport Ltd north

of the existing airport. It is flat to gently rolling, has few features of any significance, already has

a Designated Northern Runway, and is in a state of transition from its former rural character to

that of airport activities. Characteristics and qualities of the airport land include the following:

Natural features

13 The land is part of a broad area of marine and river sediments deposited in the Manukau Basin

during the ice ages (Pleistocene) that makes up much of the South Auckland lowlands. It is low-

lying, gradually rising from the Manukau Harbour to an elevation of roughly 20m.

14 There are no natural features of any particular significance:

The topography is subdued and has been further modified by earthworks approximately

1200m in length previously in anticipation of the Designated Northern. Such earthworks

include a spoil pile approximately 30m high (‘Mount Carr’) located near the Manukau

Harbour;

There are only short intermittent or permanent watercourses, they have been substantially

modified by farming, and have poor water quality and ecological health1; and

The vegetation is predominantly pasture, crops and rural shelter trees (almost entirely

exotic).

Activities and aesthetics

15 The land within the northern “area of influence” is designated for (future) airport activities

including the Designated Northern Runway. The existing character and aesthetics are

influenced by the adjacent airport activities including aircraft movements, traffic flows to and

from the airport, and ancillary activities such as warehousing and aviation support. Current

activities within the northern “area of influence” have a temporary or ‘stop-gap’ character such

as car parking, a paint-ball facility, and short term cropping. The area in general has modest

aesthetic qualities.

16 The adjacent area north of the Designated Northern Runway is currently being developed as a

warehouse and logistics area (‘the Landing’). It is being developed on a leasehold basis, the

ownership of the land remaining with AIAL. Important characteristics of ‘the Landing’ include:

16.1 A grid-like road layout with a spine road parallel to the Designated Northern Runway,

and secondary roads at right angles on a north-west-/south-east alignment;

16.2 A strong landscape framework (characterised by grids of trees and hedges) that is

intended to be the unifying design element;

16.3 Design controls which, in conjunction with the landscape treatment of public open

space, are to create a high level of amenity for this activity type; and

1 Boffa Miskell, Assessment of Ecological Effects, 16 October 2016, page 13


16.4 A curvilinear perimeter road and wide reserve following the Oruarangi Stream. This

northern perimeter truncates the street grid. It is part of the ‘Manukau Heritage

Gateway Route’ which connects heritage features between the Airport, Ihumatao and

Mangere (discussed further under the heading ‘Western Landscape’).

History

17 The airport land has historical associations with settler farming families beginning with Crown

grants made in the 1850s and including land confiscated from its iwi owners following the New

Zealand Wars in the 1860s. European settler family names associated with the area (recognised

in road names in several cases) include Nixon, Westney, Rennie2, Jones, Scott, Wallace and

Kirkbride. In particular, during the 1850s several Methodist settlers were attracted to the area by

the Wesleyan Mission at Ihumatao and a close-knit rural community developed because of

family connections and common religion.3 However, landscape features associated with such

history have now mostly been removed. The Westney farmstead and Westney Road Methodist

Church formerly in this area have been relocated to the ‘Abbeville’ site in Nixon Road. Abbeville

is the former homestead of the Nixon family and is now used as a function centre. Abbeville and

the Westney Road Methodist Church are listed in Schedule 6A ‘Buildings and Objects to be

Protected’ of the Auckland Council District Plan (Manukau Section).

Future airport urban centre

18 It is also relevant to note that AIAL has embarked on a long-term programme to develop the

airport as one of Auckland’s principal urban centres, focused on the area between the Existing

Runway and Designated Northern Runway. Development of the centre will generate its own

requirements for urban amenity and access to natural recreation opportunities. A commitment

to design amenity within the airport and its fringes is demonstrated within such recent

development as the Novotel hotel, developments in Leonard Isitt Drive, the Landing, the

gateway landscape on George Bolt Memorial Drive, the airport marae (Te Manukanuka o

Hoturoa), Abbeville centre, and the Aviation Country Club golf course. The landscapes and

natural features at the east and west ends of the airport potentially provide amenity

opportunities to serve such a future urban centre.

Eastern Landscape (Pukaki Creek, Pukaki Lagoon, Crater Hill, Waokauri Creek)

19 The landscape east of the airport has more significant characteristics and qualities in comparison

with the airport land. The area comprises two volcanic explosion craters (Pukaki Lagoon and

Crater Hill) and the Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks. Both creeks wrap around the volcanic features

to form an integral and intricate landscape with significant cultural associations.

Natural features (volcanic craters and tidal creeks)

20 Pukaki Lagoon and Crater Hill are classified as geological features of national significance in the

New Zealand Geopreservation Inventory’4. They are described as “the two best remaining

examples of explosion crater(s) and tuff ring(s) in Manukau City”. Pukaki Lagoon is described as

2 Renton Road is understood to be an amalgam of Rennie and Morton – the name of a farm in the area. 3 Excavations at Scott Farmstead, Ihumatao, Louise Furey, 2011, page 9 4 The Geopreservation Inventory is a non-statutory data-base maintained by members of the Geological Society of New Zealand.


a “large, well-preserved explosion crater and surrounding tuff ring with minimal urban

development.” The two craters, together with a third crater further east (Kohuora), are known

as Nga Tapuwae a Mataaho (the footprints of Mataaho).5 Both are recognised as regionally

significant volcanic features in the Auckland Council Regional Policy Statement, and are listed in

Schedule 6E ‘Geological Features and Areas to be Protected’ of the Auckland Council District Plan

(Manukau Section). They are listed in Appendix 3.1 ‘Schedule for Outstanding Natural Features’

in the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan. It is understood that much of the surroundings of Pukaki

Lagoon comprises a Heritage Reserve and the floor of the crater is Maori land leased in

perpetuity to Auckland Council.

21 Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks are tidal in nature and are characterised by tidal mud flats fringed

by mangroves and low cliffs or banks approximately 5m high. Pukaki Lagoon itself was also

formerly tidal but has been drained and is now controlled by floodgates. The terraces above the

banks are lined with a mix of exotic shelter trees, weeds, and some native regeneration. It is

understood the mangrove-lined margins are habitat for ‘cryptic’ bird species including banded

rail and fernbird6 and that areas in the vicinity of the harbour are used as roosting sites for

shorebirds.7

Activities and aesthetics

22 The area has a mixed rural and peri-urban character.

22.1 The land on the southern banks of Waokauri Creek (which is under the approaches to

the Existing Runway) remains a productive rural landscape including market gardening.

Similarly, for the most part, the north-eastern banks of Waokauri and Pukaki Creeks

(including the crater rims) are used for rural activities including market gardening on

the good soils along Pukaki Road. However, while there are some attractive rural

corners, one is aware of nearby urban development and the presence of the airport.

22.2 There is some recent residential development on Pukaki Road (on the south-west side

of the crater) and Retreat Drive (on the east side of the crater) in an area that could fall

under approaches to the Proposed Second Runway. In addition there is recent

suburban development in the ‘Peninsula Estate’ area immediately to the north (i.e. on

the north part of the Pukaki Lagoon tuff ring).

23 Aesthetically, the craters and creeks are distinctive features, particularly when seen from the air.

The area can be characterised as a sequence of enclosed landscapes with views confined within

the creeks, within the two craters, and within shelter belt compartments. There are few long

views in contrast to the Manukau Harbour landscape at the western and southern shorelines of

the airport.

History and cultural associations

24 The upper reaches of Waokauri Creek were part of a portage between arms of the Manukau

(part of a longer route between the Manukau and Waitemata Harbours). The strategic location,

volcanic soils and proximity to the harbour meant this area was a focus of Maori settlement. The

concentration of archaeological sites around the tidal creeks and volcanic features highlights

5 The name Nga Tapuwae a Mataaho is also applied to the wider area. 6 Boffa Miskell, Assessment of Environmental Baseline: Ecological Values, 16 October 2015, page 22 7 Boffa Miskell, page 22


such Maori settlement.8 Pukaki Marae, the principal marae of Te Akitai, is located on the bank of

the Waokauri Creek opposite the eastern end of the airport and is recognised as one of the

oldest in Tamaki Makaurau.

Natural Character of Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks

25 The elements of natural character are described above. The creeks themselves are characterised

by such natural elements, processes and patterns as the mud flats, mangroves, the ebb and flow

of the tides, and the periodic appearance of such wildlife as the wading birds. The containment

of views within the creeks by the fringing vegetation also increases perceptions of natural

character. However such impressions are reduced by the obvious presence of aircraft coming

and going from the airport, the Puhinui Road bridge (which crosses the creeks near their mouth

with the Manukau Harbour), and the views of adjacent urban development (including industrial

development in the Timberly Road area and cropping on adjacent farmland). Taking these

factors into account, the Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks and their margins have moderate natural

character.

Western Landscape (Maungataketake headland, Manukau Harbour)

26 The landscape beyond the western end of the airport comprises the shoreline and open

expanses of the Manukau Harbour. The adjoining land immediately north-west of the airport is

also an integral part of a landscape with significant volcanic, ecological, cultural, historic, amenity

and recreation values. Characteristics and qualities of this landscape include the following:

Natural features (Manukau Harbour, volcanic features, fossil forest, ecology)

27 The adjacent section of the Manukau Harbour comprises the Karore Bank, an extensive area of

inter-tidal mud and sand. It is understood the bank has high ecological value as a feeding ground

for fish and shorebirds.9 The Ecological Report notes the high numbers of shoreline birds, the

diversity of species (including national and international migratory species), and that most

species use multiple habitat types so that there is significant movement of birds across the

landscape.10 Specifically, the Report identifies a roosting area in the market gardens near Renton

Road.11

28 The remnants of the Maungataketake volcano are located immediately north-west of the

Designated Northern Runway. Maungataketake was a 65m cone surrounded by a lava stone-field

and an outer tuff ring. While the cone has been removed and its site is now a quarry pit, the

stone-field extending west to form the coastal headland is still intact, and the low ring of

volcanic ash (tuff) still encircles the location of the former cone to the north and east. The tuff

soil is currently used for market gardening. A small watercourse and raupo wetland south-east of

Renton Road follows the edge of the tuff ring and marks the boundary between the volcanic

features and the ‘back-ground’ landscape.

8 Clough and Associates, October 2015, Proposed Northern Runway and Southern Runway Options, Auckland International Airport, Mangere, Archaeological Constraints Assessment, page 25 9 Boffa Miskell, page 22 10 Boffa Miskell, page 26 11 Boffa Miskell, page 22


29 Ihumatao fossil forest is a noteworthy feature in the coastal cliffs and mud flats at the end of

Renton Road. The natural history is explained in Hayward, Jessica J., and Bruce W. Hayward,

1995.12 ‘The fossils are of coastal kauri forests which were overtaken by two separate events.

The older forest succumbed to waterlogging, the logs of which were preserved in peat and

are now exposed on the tidal mud flats.

A later forest was buried by volcanic ash from the Maungataketake eruptions and which is

now exposed in the coastal cliffs eroded into the tuff ring.

30 In landscape terms the fossil forest features are subtle: It is likely that many people would need

to be alerted to the features before paying particular attention to them. However, they are

recognised as having scientific significance: The ‘Ihumatao Pleistocene buried fossil forests’ is

listed in the ‘Geopreservation Inventory’ as a feature of national significance because it is the

“best example in New Zealand of a fossilised mature kauri forest, and of a fossil forest, buried

and preserved beneath volcanic ash.” The listing assigns a maximum vulnerability and notes

‘airport extensions’ as a hazard. The feature is identified in Schedule 6E ‘Geological Features and

Areas to be Protected’ of the Auckland Council District Plan (Manukau Section) –although the

entry notes that the feature is partly within land designated for the airport and may be modified

by works in accordance with the designation. It is listed in Appendix 3.1 ‘Schedule for

Outstanding Natural Features’ in the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan.

Aesthetics

31 Aesthetically the landscape is characterised by relatively fine-grain coastal volcanic features and

expansive ‘big sky’ views across the Manukau Harbour. The Harbour itself is characterised by its

extensive shoals, tidal channels, and wading birds. The name of the Manukau Harbour (‘only

birds’) reflects the presence of the shorebirds in the landscape. The most striking view is of the

Manukau Heads from the Maungataketake shoreline from where the Manukau Heads are

framed (often silhouetted) by steep-sided bold hills, and the distinctive shape of Paratutae.

32 Harbour views are also influenced by the regular taking-off or landing of aircraft.

Wider Landscape Context

33 While the Maungataketake cone has been destroyed by quarrying, the remaining stonefield and

tuff ring nevertheless retain value because they are part of a suite of volcanic features along the

shoreline of the Manukau Harbour and part of a significant cultural landscape associated with

those features. Volcanic features comprise the following:

Otuataua volcanic cone and stonefield

Puketapapakanga a Hape (Pukeiti) volcanic cone and stonefield

Moerangi (Mt Gabriel)

Puketutu Island

Mangere Lagoon

Mangere volcanic cone and lava fields

34 The following comments are relevant in describing this wider landscape:

34.1 With the exception of Mangere mountain, the volcanic features are all of a relatively

fine or intricate scale;

12 Hayward, Jessica J. and Bruce W Hayward, in Tane 35: 127-142 (1995), Fossil Forests Preserved in Volcanic Ash and Lava at Ihumatao and Takapuna, Auckland


34.2 The features are diverse and include cones, lava flows, stone-fields, tuff rings, an

explosion crater and a variety of detailed features such as the fossil forest;

34.3 The volcanic features comprise much of the shoreline between Mangere Bridge and the

airport;

34.4 The features have strong cultural and historic heritage associations (which are

discussed further below); and

34.5 The features have been significantly affected by such activities as quarrying and the

sewerage treatment plant. However, the following steps have been taken in recent

years to remediate such damage:

The sewerage ponds have been removed and the Harbour allowed to return to

the coastal mudflats, Mangere Lagoon and Oruarangi Creek;

The Otuataua stonefields have been protected as a reserve and recognised as a

significant landscape; and

Coastal vegetation is being re-established on part of the coast, and a coastal

walkway constructed between Mangere Bridge and the Otuataua stonefields;

Bio-solid waste is being deposited on Puketutu Island in a manner intended to

replicate the destroyed volcanic features, and a plan has been prepared (but not

enacted) to restore the damage to Puketapapakanga a Hape cone with clean fill.

Cultural and historical associations

35 Human activity gravitated to the volcanic landforms (soils) and coastline so that there are strong

tangata whenua and historical associations.

35.1 The Ihumatao area has been occupied by a number of iwi and hapu over some 800 or

900 years.

35.2 The Otuataua stonefields in particular illustrate a close pattern of settlement and

cultivation going back to early Maori settlement.

35.3 The Archaeological Baseline Report indicates that the general area has “a rich history

and archaeological legacy relating to Maori and early European occupation” and

collectively is a “significant archaeological landscape.”13 The Report points out the

frequency of recorded place names14 and notes there has been comprehensive

historical research of the Ihumatao area.15

35.4 Makaurau Marae is understood to be the longest continuously inhabited village in

Auckland. The marae is on the southern banks of Oruarangi Creek a short distance

upstream from the harbour.

35.5 Makaurau is associated with the Tainui waka which stopped off at the village, and

where members of the waka remained to settle.

13 Clough and Associations, page 25 14 Clough and Associates, page 6 15 Clough and Associates, page 10


35.6 It is understood that the first Maori King, Potatau, lived in the vicinity and that one of

the hui to select the first King was held at Makarau.

35.7 The Wesleyan Methodist Mission established the Ihumatao Mission in the vicinity of

Makaurau on the coast near the end of Ihumatao Road (on the lava field west of

Maungataketake).

35.8 It is understood that Ngati Ahiwaru, the inhabitants of Makaurau and Ihumatao, were

forced from the area during the New Zealand Wars in the 1860s, and land was unfairly

confiscated.

35.9 Several settler families subsequently occupied the land. This is discussed above in

relation to the airport land. The Rennie homestead, on the corner of Oruarangi and

Ihumatao Roads, is listed in Schedule 6A Buildings and Objects to be Protected of the

Auckland Council District Plan (Manukau Section), and is also scheduled as a Significant

Historic Heritage Place in the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan (‘PAUP’).

35.10 George Fistonich, one of the pioneering leaders of the New Zealand wine industry,

established Villa Maria winery on the north bank of Oruarangi Creek, and the winery is

an important recreation destination.

36 The relationship between the history and landscape features north-west of the airport is

encapsulated in the ‘Manukau Heritage Gateway’16 concept which connects the landscape and

heritage sites.17

Recreational use

37 Recreational use includes a coastal walkway from Mangere Bridge connecting Ambury Park and

the Otuataua stonefields. The walkway also makes up a section of Te Araroa: New Zealand’s Trail

– the long-distance walkway which continues around the northern and eastern perimeter of the

airport.

Natural Character of the Manukau Harbour coast

38 The Manukau Harbour coastline can be sensibly divided into two distinct sections for the

purpose of assessing natural character:

Airport to Maungataketake; and

Maungataketake to Oruarangi Creek.

39 The Airport to Maungataketake section of harbour coastline comprises a bay defined at its

southern end by the Existing Runway and at its northern end by the headland at

Maungataketake. The natural character comprises the following:

39.1 The shoreline mainly comprises low cliffs (typically in the order of 5m-10m high) cut

into the coastal terrace, and dipping where the main watercourse reaches the coast.

There are narrow shell beaches at the toe of the cliffs and extensive tidal mudflats.

16‘Manukau Gateway Heritage’ refers in different contexts to an area, a trail, and a programme organised by Auckland Council. 17 Partners in the ‘Mangere Gateway’ project include Te Waiohua, AIAL, Auckland Tourism and Events Economic Development (ATEED), Watercare, Villa Maria. See website Nga Tapuwae o Mataoho (Footprint of Mataoho), http://www.gatewaynz.com/project/value/, retrieved 3 may 2014

http://www.gatewaynz.com/project/value/


There is an unusual oval-shaped reclamation (approximately 120m long by 60m wide)

opposite Maungataketake which was created as a bird roost.

39.2 The vegetation on the cliffs and immediate margins is a mix of native coastal species

(including occasional pohutukawa), weed species, rank kikuyu grass and exotic shelter

belts. The adjacent land is mainly rural in character.

39.3 The only public access to this shoreline is from the end of Renton Road (where it is

currently littered with dumped rubbish).

39.4 As discussed above, the Ihumatao fossil forest is located in the mudflats and tuff cliffs

near the end of Renton Road.

39.5 The intertidal area has high value in terms of biophysical aspects of natural character as

discussed in the Ecological Baseline report.

39.6 In terms of experiential (perceptual) aspects of natural character, the airport already

influences the character of this section of coastline because the Existing Runway

extends approximately 1km into the harbour from the current trend of the coastline (in

addition to approximately 700m that has been reclaimed from the original shoreline). A

jetty for landing aids extends a further 500m beyond the reclamation.

39.7 Planes approaching or leaving the airport across the Manukau Harbour also influence

perceptions of natural character although the type of effect is that of transient human

artefacts juxtaposed against a reasonably ‘intact’ natural setting.

39.8 While the land-ward side of the coast is dominated by the airport or residual rural

activities, from the shoreline itself such views are screened by the adjacent cliffs. From

such locations the character is dominated by views across the Manukau Harbour, in

particular to the Manukau Heads.

40 Taking the factors above into account, this section of coastline generally has moderate natural

character, but noting the localised particular significance of the Ihumatao Fossil Forest and the

ecological value of the intertidal mudflats.

41 This Maungataketake to Oruarangi Creek section of the coast is separated from the airport by

the headland at Maungataketake (i.e. it is in a different ‘visual catchment’) but it is part of the

context for the coastline adjacent to the airport land, and might potentially be affected by a long

western extension. The natural character comprises the following:

41.1 Physically, the coastline comprises low cliffs (typically 5-10m high) around the

headland, and lower relief rocky lava-flow margins. There are narrow shell beaches and

extensive mudflats. Parts of the coastal edge were modified during the time the

sewerage works occupied the harbour, and features such as rock groynes remain from

this time. However, significant restoration work has been carried out of the coastline.

41.2 Coastal edge vegetation is characterised mainly by mangroves and rushes, with a range

of weed vegetation on banks. There a patches of remnant coastal forest in the

Otuataua stonefields.


41.3 There is public access at the end of Ihumatao Road (which is littered with rubbish as

with Renton Road), at Otuataua stonefields, and by way of the coastal walkway.

41.4 The inland character is rural, with a backdrop of volcanic features including the

stonefields and cones of Puketapapakanga a Hape and Otuataua.

41.5 As above, this section of coast has high value in terms of biophysical aspects of natural

character as discussed in the Ecological Baseline report.

41.6 The outlook from this coastline is largely natural –particularly from water’s edge. Views

are across open harbour toward the Manukau Heads, with middle-ground views of

Puketutu Island.

41.7 There are strong cultural associations with the coastline as discussed above, and

historic heritage associations with the site of the Ihumatao Mission Station which is

located on the headland opposite the Manukau Heads.

42 Taking the factors above into account, this section of coastline generally has moderate-high

natural character.

‘Southern Area of Influence’

Southern Landscape (Manukau Harbour and Wiroa Island)

43 The landscape within the ‘southern area of influence’ south of the airport comprises the airport

shoreline, Wiroa Island and a relatively large part of the Manukau Harbour. Characteristics and

qualities of this landscape include the following:

Natural features (Manukau Harbour, Wiroa Island, ecology, volcanic features)

44 The Manukau Harbour south of the airport forms part of the Karore Bank extending out to the

Papakura Channel. The Karore Bank is bisected by the protrusion of the Existing Runway into the

harbour. The Ecological Baseline Assessment assumes the area has high ecological value for

shorebirds, although this value has not been quantified by fieldwork.18 Of particular note is the

salt marsh, shell banks and high tide roosts on Wiroa Island 19 (see below).

45 Wiroa Island is located south-east of the Existing Runway and is connected to the airport by a

causeway. It is low-lying with the majority of the land less than 5m above sea-level. It was

modified to house the airport’s radar station –the most prominent feature of which is a circular

bund in the order of 4 - 5m high. The island is fringed by tidal mud flats and mangroves. There is

no public access.

46 The eastern end of the island is a wildlife sanctuary that has been enhanced by Auckland

International Airport Ltd as a bird roost to encourage birds away from the Existing Runway and

18 Boffa Miskell, page 33 19 Boffa Miskell, page 33


flight paths20. Wiroa Island occupies a strategic location at the mouth of the Pukaki Creek and is

therefore a reasonably prominent coastal feature.

47 Much of the Existing Runway is located on land reclaimed from within the Manukau Harbour,

resulting in a ‘straight’ coastal edge characterised by a rip-rap bank in the order of 4-5m high.

Aesthetics

48 Aesthetically the landscape is dominated by the existing airport (the linearity and openness of

the Existing Runway and taxi-ways, the backdrop terminal facilities, coming and going of

aircraft), the expansive views across the Manukau Harbour, and the subtle landscape of Wiroa

Island. The harbour itself is characterised by its extensive shoals, tidal channels, wading birds

and ‘big sky’ views.


49 Wiroa Island formed part of the wider cultural landscape connected with the Mangere, Pukaki

and Puhinui centres. The archaeological baseline assessment notes there are 17 recorded

archaeological sites, all but one of which are middens (the remaining site being a red ochre

quarry). 21

Natural Character

50 The coastal edge of the existing airport has low natural character taking into account the linear

rip-rap edge, the adjacent Existing Runway and taxi-way aprons, backdrop of airport facilities,

and the frequent taking-off and landing of aircraft. It has no natural landscape features of note.

Although it is obviously constructed, it has become an inherent feature of this landscape.

51 The natural character of Wiroa Island includes the following:

51.1 The shoreline mainly comprises low banks and cliffs (typically less than 3m high), areas

of rip rap, narrow shell beaches, and a fringe of tidal mudflats, salt marsh and

mangroves.

51.2 Inland parts of the island are somewhat modified by works associated with the radar

station and fire-fighting and rescue training facilities. However, the eastern end of the

island is more natural and is a habitat for coastal birds (wildlife sanctuary).

51.3 The intertidal area is assumed to have high value in terms of biophysical aspects of

natural character as discussed in the Ecological Baseline Assessment, and the presence

of areas identified in the PAUP as Significant Ecological Areas.

52 In terms of experiential (perceptual) aspects, Wiroa Island is a distinct coastal feature, and it

occupies a strategic location at the mouth of Pukaki Creek. It is influenced both by its location in

the harbour, and the nearby presence of the airport. The natural experience or appearance of

the harbour itself increases with distance from the existing airport so that it is low adjacent to

the airport shoreline but moderate to moderate-high by the outer edge of the study area.

20 Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan, Section 7 Infrastructure Precinct, 7.2 Auckland Airport - Precinct Description 21 Clough and Associates, page 22


53 Taking the factors above into account, it is considered that he airport shoreline and adjacent

harbour adjacent to the Existing Runway has low natural character, while Wiroa Island and parts

of the harbour further from the airport have moderate to moderate-high natural character.

South-eastern Landscape

Natural Features

54 The wider landscape context to the east of the ‘Southern Landscape’ includes Puhinui Reserve

and the fringes of industrial Wiri.

55 The main natural feature is the Ngā Matukurua volcanic area which includes:

Matukutūreia (McLaughlins Mountain)

Matukuturua Stonefields

Manurewa Mountain

Ash Hill

Wiri lava cave

Puhinui volcanic explosion craters

56 Some of the features have been extensively quarried and now form part of industrial Wiri.

However, the Wiri lava cave remains intact and is a site of national importance.22 Similarly the

Matukurua Stonefields are largely intact within the Puhinui Reserve (see below) along with the

quarried remnant of Matukutureia / McLaughlins mountain. Matukutureia and the Matukuturua

lava field and tuff ring are identified in the PAUP as an outstanding natural feature (ONF).

Appendix 3.1 describes them as follows: “The Matukuturua lava field is one of the best-

preserved lava fields remaining in the Auckland volcanic field and is an important representative

example of the volcanic lava terrain that underlies much of the city. The lava field erupted from

McLaughlin’s Mountain (Matukutūreia) volcano. Most of the original scoria cone and a section of

the lava field in the north have been quarried away. Associated with the lava field is a section of

tuff ring remaining from the early phases of the eruption. A small wetland has formed behind the

ridge of tuff.” A cluster of small volcanic craters within the stonefield are also separately listed as

an ONF in the PAUP. Appendix 3.1 describes them as “three, small, elongate (200-250 m) craters

(Pond, Arena, Eroded) each sit at the top of a small (7-8 m high) tuff cone forming the hills of

Puhinui Reserve. Pond Crater retains a small freshwater lake in the crater; Arena Crater is filled to

the overflow level with lake sediment; and Eroded Crater has a small stream eroded through the

middle of it. This is the only cluster of small explosion craters in the Auckland Volcanic field.”

57 As well as encompassing the Matukura Stonefield, the 200ha Puhinui Reserve extends further

south-east to the estuary of Puhinui Creek and the shell-bank peninsula separating the estuary

from the Manukau Harbour. The area is important as wildlife habitat, particularly for coastal and

wading birds that use the extensive feeding grounds on the adjacent harbour tidal flats. An area

at the tip of the peninsula is set aside as the Puhinui Stream Wildlife Refuge to which access is

restricted.

58 The intertidal banks and shellbanks around the mouth of Puhinui Inlet are proposed as an ONF in

the PAUP. Appendix 3.1 describes them as “an area of dynamic shellbanks at the mouth of

Puhinui Creek is one of the best examples on the Manukau Harbour. The shellbanks and

intervening intertidal banks also form a complex of habitats for a variety of animal and plant

communities.”

22 Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (1992), Geology of the Auckland Urban Area, page 54


Aesthetics

59 Puhinui Reserve provides access to the natural setting and outlook over the harbour. Te Araroa:

New Zealand’s Trail also traverses Puhunui Reserve and Prices Road. This area has subtle

landscape qualities including the volcanic stonefields, shell banks and beaches, salt marsh, tidal

estuary, and expansive outlook over the harbour. It has a relatively remote character and quiet

contemplative atmosphere considering its proximity to urban areas and the airport.


60 The area also has significant cultural associations linked to the strategic location at the

intersection of stream mouth, harbour and volcanic soils. Several ‘sites of significance to Mana

Whenua’ are identified within the Matukura Stonefield in the PAUP, and ‘sites of value to Mana

Whenua’ are densely clustered between the stonefield and estuary.

Natural character

61 The natural character of this section of the eastern shore of Manukau Harbour and Puhinui

Creek estuary comprises the following:

61.1 Physically the shoreline is subdued, comprising shell banks and tidal muddy beaches,

rocky lava-flow shore in part of the estuary. The intertidal banks and shellbanks around

the mouth of Puhinui Inlet are proposed as an ONF in the PAUP. Appendix 3.1 describes

them as “An area of dynamic shellbanks at the mouth of Puhinui Creek is one of the best

examples on the Manukau Harbour. The shellbanks and intervening intertidal banks also

form a complex of habitats for a variety of animal and plant communities.”

61.2 Shoreline vegetation is characterised by mangroves, rushes and salt marsh. The inland

landscape is mainly farmland characterised by pasture and exotic shelter belts,

although there is a wide area of regenerating vegetation adjacent to the Manukau

Harbour and some areas of revegetation within the farmland and along a tributary of

the Puhinui Creek.

61.3 The coast has significance for wildlife taking into account the presence of the Puhinui

wildlife refuge, the range of habitat between the estuary and the wide tidal flats of the

harbour, and the high-tide roosts and other habitat, and that the area and adjacent

intertidal flats are classified in the PAUP as Significant Ecological Areas.

61.4 Perceptually, the immediate setting of the Puhinui Reserve and backdrop is rural and

natural. However, the broader context includes the urban backdrop of industrial Wiri to

the east, suburban Manurewa to the south, and the presence of aircraft movements to

and from the airport to the north-west.

62 Taking these factors into account (a mix of high biophysical value and moderate experiential

value) this section of coastline has moderate-high natural character.

Wider landscape context

63 Otherwise, the broader context to the east comprises mainly an industrial landscape. This area

includes the Auckland South Corrections Facility (‘Wiri Prison’).


EVALUATION OF LANDSCAPE SIGNIFICANCE AND NATURAL CHARACTER

Landscape significance

64 Landscape matters relate both to s7(c) and s7(f) of the RMA, which concern ‘amenity values’ and

the ‘quality of the environment’ respectively. In summary:

64.1 The northern landscape itself has few landscape characteristics or qualities of any

significance, and presents few constraints to development of the Proposed Second

Runway.

64.2 The eastern landscape east of the airport (comprising Pukaki Lagoon, Crater Hill and the

Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks) has reasonably significant landscape values. Its

characteristics and qualities make it reasonably sensitive to the effects of development.

However, it is an inwardly focused landscape so that development could occur on

airport land reasonably close to this landscape without significant adverse effects.

64.3 The western landscape west of the airport has the highest landscape values, taking into

account that it is an integral part of a wider significant landscape north-west of the

airport. Its characteristics and qualities mean it is the more sensitive to potential effects

of development. A western extension would have adverse effects on the Manukau

Harbour and would likely impact on the Ihumatao Fossil Forest.

64.4 While the southern landscape south of the airport does not have as significant

landscape values as the area west of the airport, its characteristics and qualities mean it

has the high sensitivity to the effects of development. Expansion to the south would

have high visibility, high effects on Wiroa Island, and would potentially affect a

significantly larger part of the Manukau Harbour.

64.5 The south-eastern landscape has some significant landscape values including those

relating to the wildlife value of the Puhinui Creek estuary, eastern shoreline of the

harbour and adjacent shell bank roosts. This area might potentially be affected by

approaches to the Proposed Second Runway.

Natural Character of the Coastal Environment

65 Natural character of the coastal environment overlaps with landscape matters. Section 6(a) of

the RMA requires as a matter of national importance the ‘preservation of the natural character

of the coastal environment…and its protection from inappropriate subdivision, use and

development’.

66 While the area in the vicinity of the airport falls within the coastal environment to a greater or

lesser degree, there is a clear differentiation between the harbour margins (where the harbour

has a dominant presence) and areas a short distance inland where the coastal influence is much

less marked.

67 The elements, processes and patterns that contribute to natural character are described above

in each of the geographic areas. The degree of natural character can be summarised as follows:

67.1 The Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks and their margins have moderate natural character.


67.2 The section of Manukau Harbour coastline between the airport and the

Maungataketake headland generally has moderate natural character, but noting the

localised particular significance of the Ihumatao Fossil Forest and the high ecological

values.

67.3 The section of Manukau Harbour coastline between the Maungataketake headland and

Oruarangi Stream has moderate-high natural character. This area is separate from the

airport but is part of the broader context.

67.4 The airport southern shoreline has low natural character, but Wiroa Island has

moderate- natural character, and the natural character of the Manukau Harbour itself

increases with distance from the current airport from low to moderate-high.

67.5 The eastern shore of the Manukau Harbour south-east of the airport (around the

Puhinui Creek estuary and shellbanks) has moderate-high natural character.

Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes

68 Section 6(b) of the RMA requires as a matter of national importance ‘the protection of

outstanding natural features and landscapes from inappropriate subdivision use and

development’. There are no outstanding natural landscapes in the vicinity of the airport

identified in the Auckland Council Regional Policy Statement, the District Plan (Manukau

Section), or the Proposed Unitary Plan.

69 However, as discussed above, the Ihumatao buried forests, Pukaki Lagoon, Crater Hill,

Matukutureia and the Matukuturua lava field and tuff ring, Puhinui volcanic explosion craters,

and Puhinui intertidal banks and shellbanks are all are mapped and listed in Appendix 3.1

‘Schedule for Outstanding Natural Features’ of the PAUP. The ‘Ihumatao Buried Fossil Forest’,

Crater Hill Tuff Ring and Crater, Pukaki Lagoon Tuff Ring and Craterare also listed in Schedule 6E

‘Geological Features and Areas to be Protected’ of the District Plan (Manukau Section). Of these,

it appears the Ihumatao buried forest is the most sensitive to potential effects of airport

expansion because of its proximity to airport land and its location near the end of the Designated

Northern Runway.

70 In addition, the volcanic features east, west and south-east of the airport have collective value as

part of the ‘Auckland Volcanic Field’ which is one of eight sites on the ‘Tentative List’ of sites

suitable for nomination for World Heritage status submitted to the UNESCO World Heritage

Committee by the New Zealand Government in 2007. The Auckland Volcanic Field was

recommended under both ‘natural’ and ‘cultural’ categories. Features in the vicinity of the

airport that are included in the recommended ‘site’ are the Ihumatao fossil forest and the

Otuataua stonefields. It is understood that Pukaki Lagoon, Crater Hill and Puketutu Island were

also identified as having ‘World Heritage value subject to their coming into public ownership.23

23 Hayward, Bruce W, Graeme Murdoch and Gordon Matiland (2011), Volcanoes of Auckland –the essential guide, page 92


CONSTRAINTS

Visibility and ‘audiences’24

71 The ‘viewing catchment’ of the airport land is relatively restricted in views from the north and

east because of the flat terrain, the extent of trees in the intervening landscape (especially along

the Pukaki Creek margins), and the buffer provided by the industrial land north of the airport.

Residential areas with potential views comprise ‘Peninsula Estate’ (an area of housing south of

Massey Road to the north-east), houses along Pukaki Road, and the Pukaki Marae at the end of

Pukaki Road.

72 Reclamation into the Manukau Harbour at the western end would be visible from a wider

‘viewing catchment’ although the ‘audience’ would be relatively small, particularly if such

reclamation was confined to the bay between the Existing Runway and the Maungataketake

headland. The visibility would more expansive if such reclamation were to extend west of this

headland in which case it would not be confined to a discrete bay but would protrude into the

greater Manukau Harbour. Reclamation into the Harbour to the south would also have a wider

‘viewing catchment’.

73 Potential ‘audiences’ of an airport expansion include:

Travellers or other people with business at the airport;

People with business in the industrial areas and other ancillary activities near the airport;

Residents north-east of the airport in the Pukaki Road and Peninsula Estate area;

Residents south-east of the airport in the Clendon Park and Weymouth;

Residents and visitors to Makaurau and Pukaki Maraes;

People using the recreational opportunities of the surrounding area such as the Otuataua

Stone-fields, the harbour walkway and shoreline, Puhinui Reserve, or boating on the

Manukau Harbour.

74 In terms of relative ‘sensitivity’:

74.1 Residents and people associated with the two maraes are assumed to be relatively

most ‘sensitive’ to the potential amenity effects of airport development.

74.2 People making use of recreational opportunities are also assumed to be ‘sensitive’ to

amenity effects to the extent that such recreation is based on experience of a natural

landscape. However, such an audience is transitory. Some visitors are also likely to

regard views of aircraft movements as a feature of interest.

74.3 Travellers or others with business at the airport are assumed to have relatively less

sensitivity: While amenity is important to their experience, their expectation will be

that of an airport, and most people will be either transitory passengers or will be

visiting the airport for work or business.

24 This section considers the potential visibility of an airport expansion itself and does not take into account the wider visibility of plane flight paths which would obviously extend over a much wider area.


Landscape constraints

75 The western and eastern landscapes (that ‘book-end’ the airport) present landscape constraints.

These landscapes are significant for their volcanic and ecological values, aesthetic and

recreational values, and their cultural and historic associations.

76 The landscape significance and likely effects are greater at the western end for the following

reasons:

The presence of the Ihumatao fossil forest and its potential destruction as a result of

reclamation beyond the western shoreline (a jetty for landing aids might be able to be

constructed into the harbour in a way that would minimise effects on the fossil forest);

The higher natural character in parts, and more exposed nature of the harbour coastline,

which means there will be greater potential effects on natural character of the coastal

environment;

The greater cultural significance and historical heritage value of the landscape north of

Maungataketake;

The higher recreational use and visual amenity of the Manukau Harbour shoreline,

particularly north-west of the airport; and

The greater visual exposure, particularly if reclamation for a Proposed Second Runway

extended beyond the Maungataketake headland into the wider Manukau Harbour.

77 While the landscape at the eastern end also has significant characteristics and qualities, the

potential landscape effects are likely to be less significant, for the following reasons:

Potential effects on the natural character of the Pukaki and Waokauri Creeks are likely to

be contained to more discrete areas;

While there are significant Maori and historical associations with the landscape, these are

considered less comprehensive and evident (in a landscape sense) than those associated

with Otuataua, Makaurau, the Wesleyan Mission site, and the settler history;

While Pukaki Lagoon and Crater Hill are recognised as volcanic features with national

significance and are outstanding natural features, they are beyond the area within which

an airport extension might reasonably be considered (unlike the Ihumatao fossil forest);

and

Visibility is more confined by vegetation and buildings.

78 Potential landscape effects are also likely to be significant on the southern landscape for the

following reasons:

The greater extent of reclamation likely to be required compared with the east or west

options, coupled with the moderate natural character of Wiroa Island and adjacent parts of

the harbour;

The partial destruction of Wiroa Island as a coastal feature;

The greater visual exposure within the wider Manukau Harbour; and

Potential indirect or direct effects on the Puhinui Reserve and wildlife refuge.


CONCLUSIONS

‘Northern area of influence’

79 The land owned by the airport (northern landscape) presents few constraints to development.

Confining development of a Proposed Second Runway to this land within the northern area of

influence would result in the least adverse landscape effects.

80 The distinctive landscape beyond the eastern end of the airport (the two volcanic craters and the

tidal creeks) has greater landscape value and represents more significant constraints. However,

that landscape is an internally focused one so that development could be carried out close to the

margins of Pukaki Creek (including potential extension of navigation aids across the creek)

without significant adverse landscape effects.

81 The landscape beyond the western end of the airport (the Manukau Harbour and the volcanic

shoreline landscape north-west of the airport) has the highest landscape value and represents

significant constraints. Any reclamation into the Manukau Harbour would potentially affect

biophysical aspects of natural character including potential destruction of the Ihumatao Fossil

Forest. A distinction can be made either side of a line drawn between the headland at

Maungataketake and the Existing Runway in terms of perceptual aspects: Development inland of

such a line would be confined to a bay where the character is already influenced by the airport,

whereas development seaward of such a line would extend into the wider harbour with greater

adverse landscape effects.

82 The land north-west of the airport in the vicinity of Maungataketake is an integral part of a more

extensive harbour edge landscape that has significant biophysical, aesthetic, recreational,

cultural and historic heritage values.

‘Southern area of influence’

83 The area south of the airport land (Wiroa Island and the Manukau Harbour also has greater

landscape value and represents significant constraints. Reclamation into the Manukau Harbour

to accommodate the Proposed Second Runway in the southern area of influence would

potentially affect biophysical aspects of natural character including the partial destruction of

Wiroa Island. The scale of the proposed extension into the Manukau Harbour (indicated by the

‘Southern Area of Influence’) significantly increases the visibility and would result in greater

adverse landscape effects than those associated with the eastern or western areas in the

‘northern area of influence’.

84 Reclamation of to the south of the Existing Runway would potentially have indirect effects on

the significant wildlife and other values of Puhinui Reserve further to the east.

Gavin Lister / Matthew Jones

Isthmus

23 October 2015


APPENDIX 1: SOURCES

Draft Baseline Reports

Tonkin and Taylor (October 2015), Proposed Second Runway, Geotechnical Due Diligence Report

Boffa Miskell (16 October 2015), AIAL Second Runway, Assessment of Environmental Baseline:

Ecological Values,

Clough and Associates (October 2015), Proposed Northern Runway and Southern Runway

Options, Auckland International Airport, Mangere, Archaeological Constraints Assessment

Other Sources

Abbeville Estate, The History, http://www.abbeville.co.nz/history.html, retrieved 3 May 2014

CFG Heritage Ltd (Louise Furey) (November 2005), Mangere Puhinui Rural Zone Review:

archaeological appraisal

CFG Heritage Ltd (Louise Furey) (2 May 2011), Excavations at Scott Farmstead, Ihumatao, Report

to the New Zealand Historic Places Trust and Auckland International Airport Ltd

de Beer Marketing and Communications (November 2004), Puketapapa heritage gateway trail

Hayward, Bruce W, Graeme Murdoch and Gordon Maitland (2011), Volcanoes of Auckland –the

essential guide

Hayward, Bruce W, (unpublished report 2009), Geology of Pukaki Lagoon

Hayward, Jessica J. and Bruce W Hayward, in Tane 35: 127-142 (1995), Fossil Forests Preserved in

Volcanic Ash and Lava at Ihumatao and Takapuna, Auckland

Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (1992), Geology of the Auckland Urban Area

Lawlor, Ian (11 November 2008), Puketapapa (Pukeiti) Restoration Plan

Mackintosh, Lucy (2009), Te Pukaki Tapu O Poutukeka: A History of Occupation and Land Use

and Historic Heritage Places (Report for Manukau City Council)

Makaurau Marae History, http://www.makauraumarae.co.nz/history/, retrieved 3 May 2014

Manukau City Council, Nga Tapuwae o Mataoho (Footprint of Mataoho), Mangere …our

international gateway, powerpoint presentation, retrieved 3 May 2014

New Zealand Environment Court Decision 2012/120, Wallace & ors vs Auckland Council, (appeal

in relation to Plan Change 13 of the former Manukau District Plan concerning zoning of land at

the western end of Ihumatao Peninsula –includes useful summary of history of Ihumatao)

Nga Tapuwae o Mataoho (Footprint of Mataoho), http://www.gatewaynz.com/project/value/,

retrieved 3 may 2014

http://www.abbeville.co.nz/history.html

http://www.makauraumarae.co.nz/history/

http://www.gatewaynz.com/project/value/


Peake Design (2 March 2003), Landscape Assessment Mangere Puinui Rural Zone Review

Wild Earth Media Ltd (October 2009), Pukaki Tapu o Poutukeka: Vegetation History and Potential

for Ecological Restoration (Report for Manukau City Council)


APPENDIX 2: LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY

Definition of ‘landscape’

1 ‘Landscape is the cumulative expression of natural and cultural features, patterns and

processes in a geographical area, including human perceptions and associations’

(New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects Best Practice Note 10.1, November

2010)

2 By way of further explanation, landscape combines physical features and peoples perceptions.

Perceptions include scientific knowledge, sensory experience, and people’s associations with an

area.

Asssessing the existing landscape

3 Research was carried out into the physical, perceptual and associative attributes of the

landscape. This included documentary research and site visits. Factors (or components) of the

landscape considered included the following:

Geology, geomorphology and topography

Hydrology (streams, coastlines)

Soils and natural vegetation

Ecology (the health and significance of ecological aspects)

Land use

Human vegetation patterns

Settlements and buildings

Road networks

Historical sites

Geomorphic expressiveness

Legibility

Visibility (visual catchment and viewing audiences)

Aesthetics (including picturesque and compositional qualities, coherence)

Naturalness associations (such as wilderness value, or New Zealand sense of place)

Historical associations

Tangata whenua associations

Recreational use based on landscape qualities

The first draft was carried out in parallel to that of other disciplines such as ecology and archaeology,

such information being incorporated into subsequentdrafts.

4 Analysis was then undertaken of how the attributes combined to create the particular

characteristics and qualities of the landscape (its unique sense of place). Such characteristics and

qualities relate to both s7(c) and s7(f) of the RMA –amenity values and the quality of the

environment. It is stressed that such an analysis is concerned with landscape ‘in the round’

rather than a mere catelogue of attributes.

5 Particular analysis was also undertaken to determine whether the landscape falls within the

coastal environment and the extent to which it has natural character. This analysis relates to

s6(a) of the RMA. Similarly a check was made of the statutory documents and an analysis

undertaken to determine if there are any outstanding natural features or landscapes in relation

to s6(b) of the RMA.

Job No: 3346 Date: 16 October 20151:30,0001:30,0001:30,0001:30,000

Landscape Study Area

Western Landscape

Northern Landscape

Eastern Landscape

Auckland International Airport Second Runway - Landscape Baseline AssessmentPlan prepared by Isthmus for AIAL.Data Sources: Auckland Council GIS Viewer (ALGGI)

Figure 11: 30,000 @ A3

Manukau Harbour

Waokauri Creek

Oruarangi Creek

1:30,000

Southern Landscape

Pukaki Creek

1:30,000

Potential extent of Second Runway

Breakdown of Study Area

South Eastern Landscape

Job No: 3346 Date: 16 October 2015

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

!(

1:30,000

Ihumateo Fossil Forest

Wiroa Island

Northern - Area of Influence

Southern - Area of Influence

Wesleyan Methodist Mission site

Abbeville Estate

MakaurauMarae

‘The Landing’

Villa Maria Vineyard

Pukaki Marae

Pukaki Lagoon

Oruarangi Creek

Pukaki Creek

Site of 19thC Maori Settlement

Site of former Maungataketake Pa

Geological FeaturesAuckland International Airport Second Runway - Landscape Baseline AssessmentPlan prepared by Isthmus for AIAL.Data Sources: Auckland Council GIS Viewer (ALGGI), GNS Science NZ, NZ Archaeological Association.

Figure 21: 30,000 @ A3

Puketutu Island

Waitomokia

Pukeiti

Otuataua Stonefields

Maungataketake

Pukaki

Crater Hill

Kohuora

Matukutureia

Matukuturua Stonefields

Puhinui Volcanic Explosion Craters

ManurewaAsh Hill

Volcanic Geological Feature

Crater

Ihumateo Fossil Forest

Historic / Cultural Location

Creek

Residential

Industrial

Potential extent of Second Runway

Manukau Harbour

Waokauri Creek

auckland international airport proposed second … · an option is to construct the proposed second...

Documents