Policy and Resource Management
Aquaculture in the Firth of Thames
In past semesters, students have worked on issues related to the development in the coastal zone. Students have reviewed the documentation related to marine farming applications for the Firth of Thames, covering legal and policy frameworks as well as community (both pakeha and Maori) perspectives.
Riparian Management Issues and Barriers to Implementation
A analysis of the issues surrounding the implementation of riparian management in New Zealand, using the Whakatiwai Stream as a case study. The focus was on national legislation and regional guidelines (Auckland Region in this instance). The incentives for, and factors prohibiting riparian management were outlined and discussed, and stakeholders views were represented in this work.
Policies with regard to the control of pest plants and weeds
This study also used the Whakatiwai Stream as a case study, and discussed pertinent pest plant legislation in New Zealand. Cross-boundary issues weregiven particular attention, as the implementation of weed control often rests with one of several local authorities and with the Department of Conservation.
Waste Management
One student (fall 2004) carried out an analysis of the responsibilities at national, regional and district level, with regard to management of solid waste. The New Zealand Waste Strategy (2002) provides guidelines, but these are non-mandatory. Several communities in New Zealand subscribe to 'Zero Waste' principles. Resource recovery and diversion of the waste stream is ever more important, as the fast-growing economy generates more and more waste.
Mainland Islands
In 2001 and 2002, several students worked on documenting views of local iwi on the proposed fence at Maungatautari. In 2003, two students worked on the existing frameworks at Regional level to encourage landowners to establish mainland islands or reserves on their land, and two students worked on the cost benefit analysis of pest proof fencing, compared to ongoing predator control in non- fenced reserves.
Increasingly we are looking to mainland New Zealand (rather than out offshore and outlying islands) to expand the restoration network. One of the students in Fall 2004 investigated the mainland island concept. He analysed the different approaches that can be taken to reach the goals of managing tracts of land on New Zealand's North and South Islands in order to maintain and enhance biodiversity. Although the mainland islands were initially the domain of the Department of Conservation, community groups and private individuals now all play a role in providing safe havens for our endangered species.
Restoration of the coastal wetlands
In close consultation with the Wharekawa Marae Committee, one of our students has started work on scoping out plans and options for restoration of the wetlands along the Whakatiwai Coast. This project outlines the legislative framework pertaining to coastal walkways, and use of private land to enhance biodiversity. Long-term this project will tie in with riparian management of the Whakatiwai Stream .
Cabbage trees (Cordyline australis) and new Zealand flax (Phormium tenax) are characteristic of the coastal wetlands at Whakatiwai
