WAITAKERE RANGES

                 2.2.1           DESCRIPTION

As a recreational reserve within the region, the Waitakere ranges are invaluable, a rugged and steeply dissected highland region with peaks up to 450 metres and regenerating native bush, largely contiguous throughout the area.

The two high points within the ranges are characterised by poorly drained and undulating plateau.

Development is confined largely to the fringes of the ranges - along the West Coast and Manukau harbour edge, whilst in the east, development is located on the ridges and at the base of the escarpment.

Roads and recreational walking tracks follow ridges through the ranges and have enabled the building of scattered bushlot dwellings.

On the west coast and eastern escarpment, spectacular views are occasionally provided a glimpse from the roads.

Much of the area is recognised as a valuable recreational and ecological resource and is protected under its designation as a Protected Natural Area. (PNA).

Away from the more vulnerable fringes issues are largely restricted to those of the integration of recreational activities with the natural resource.

On the interface between the native bush and human habitation additional issues arise. These are outlined below with a set of objectives provided for each:

                  2.2.2          ISSUES

• Bush clearance

• Grazing and browsing.

• Grazing and browsing.

• Earthworks for access and buildings.

• Habitat protection.

• Protection of water quality and soils.

• Control of noxious animals and exotic plant species.

• Incongruous subdivision.

• Design, location and scale of development.

• Poorly sited utilities.

• Provision of recreational opportunities and facilities.

                  2.2.3          OVERALL GOAL

To maintain and protect the valuable bush resource whilst allowing sustainable and sympathetic development and subdivision in limited locations

                  2.2.4          OBJECTIVES

• To minimise bush clearance

• To eliminate grazing and browsing.

• To minimise the adverse effects of earthworks.

• To enhance habitat values

• To control run-off and effluent disposal.

• To eliminate exotic plant species and noxious animals.

• To provide for bush protection through subdivision boundary adjustment and title amalgamation within density limits

• To control the design, location and scale of structures

• To locate utilities sensitively and sympathetically

• To provide for appropriate recreation use and provision of facilities.