Promise kept on coastal policy

National is delivering on our promise to provide more guidance for local authorities to meet their obligations under the Resource Management Act.

The New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement 2010 will provide stronger direction and protection for the management of our coastal areas. It will include direction on natural character, outstanding landscapes, nationally significant surf breaks, biodiversity, planning for subdivision use, and it will emphasise the priority the Government places on public access to the coast.

There is updated policy on managing coastal hazards and a stronger requirement to identify where water quality is degraded and should be enhanced. The statement also includes policies on ports and aquaculture to recognise the importance these industries play in our national economy. It will replace the 1994 policy statement when it comes into force on December 3.

For a copy of the statement visit: www.doc.govt.nz/coastalpolicy