carrington water race scheme resource consent … · introduction 1 introduction 1.1 preamble...

CARRINGTON WATER RACE SCHEME

Resource Consent Application andAssessment of Environmental Effects

C a r t e r t o n D i s t r i c t C o u n c i l 2 0 1 1

Carrington Water Race Scheme

ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

Prepared for

Carterton District Council

By

Boffa Miskell Limited

With the Assistance of

Eastern Consulting Limited

November 2011

Version 2

Acknowledgements

This document has been prepared on behalf of Carterton District Council by Boffa Miskell Limited, with hydrological input and assistance from Eastern Consulting Limited. We also acknowledge the assistance of Melvin Pike (Water Race Overseer) for his considerable historic and operational knowledge of the water races.

CARRINGTON WATER RACE CARTERTON DISTRICT COUNCIL

ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS i Contents

Table of Contents

Table of Contents .................................................................................................................................... i

1 Introduction ............................................................................................................................... 1-11.1 Preamble .......................................................................................................................... 1-11.2 Purpose of this Document ................................................................................................ 1-1

2 Background and History .......................................................................................................... 2-12.1 Water Race Network History ............................................................................................ 2-1

3 Existing Environment ............................................................................................................... 3-13.1 The Water Race Network ................................................................................................. 3-13.2 Current Take and Usage .................................................................................................. 3-13.3 River Values ..................................................................................................................... 3-43.4 Other Values of the Taratahi Plains ................................................................................. 3-93.5 Land Use .......................................................................................................................... 3-93.6 Existing Resource Consents ............................................................................................ 3-9

4 Proposal Description ................................................................................................................ 4-14.1 Introduction ...................................................................................................................... 4-14.2 Section 13 – River Bed Structures and Works ................................................................ 4-14.3 Section 14 – Takes, Diversions, Use ............................................................................... 4-34.4 Section 15 – Discharges .................................................................................................. 4-44.5 Summary of Consents Sought ......................................................................................... 4-54.6 Duration of Consents ....................................................................................................... 4-5

5 Consent Considerations .......................................................................................................... 5-15.1 Section 104 – Consideration of Resource Consent Applications .................................... 5-15.2 Section 105 - Matters Relevant to Certain Applications .................................................. 5-15.3 Section 107 - Restriction on Grant of Certain Discharge Permits ................................... 5-2

6 Assessment of Environmental Effects .................................................................................... 6-16.1 Positive Effects ................................................................................................................ 6-16.2 Social ............................................................................................................................... 6-16.3 Assessment of Effects of River Bed Structures and Works ............................................. 6-36.4 Assessment of Effects of Water Take .............................................................................. 6-46.5 Assessment of Effects of Discharges .............................................................................. 6-8

7 Mitigation Measures and Monitoring....................................................................................... 7-17.1 Water Take Regime ......................................................................................................... 7-17.2 Minimise Impact on River Bed ......................................................................................... 7-17.3 Avoid and Minimise Wastages ......................................................................................... 7-27.4 Self-monitoring and reporting ........................................................................................... 7-2


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS ii Contents

7.5 Improved Water Race Management ................................................................................ 7-27.6 Minimise Surface Contaminant Discharges ..................................................................... 7-37.7 Other District Council Initiatives ....................................................................................... 7-37.8 Suggested Conditions of Consent ................................................................................... 7-4

8 Consultation .............................................................................................................................. 8-18.1 Tangata Whenua ............................................................................................................. 8-28.2 Department of Conservation ............................................................................................ 8-28.3 Interest Groups ................................................................................................................ 8-28.4 Wairarapa District Health Board ...................................................................................... 8-38.5 Landowners and Water Race Users ................................................................................ 8-38.6 Other Water Take Consent Holders ................................................................................ 8-3

9 Consideration of Alternatives .................................................................................................. 9-19.1 Water Take Alternatives ................................................................................................... 9-19.2 Discharge Alternatives ..................................................................................................... 9-29.3 Conclusion ....................................................................................................................... 9-3

10 Statutory Assessment ............................................................................................................ 10-110.1 Background Statutory Context ....................................................................................... 10-110.2 Resource Management Act 1991 .................................................................................. 10-110.3 Relevant Planning Instruments ...................................................................................... 10-310.4 Operative Wellington Regional Policy Statement .......................................................... 10-310.5 Proposed Wellington Regional Policy Statement .......................................................... 10-410.6 Regional Freshwater Plan for the Wellington Region .................................................... 10-610.7 Other Relevant Documents .......................................................................................... 10-17

11 Conclusion .............................................................................................................................. 11-1

List of Appendices Appendix 1: Map of Carrington Water Race Scheme Showing Water Take and Discharge Points

Appendix 2: Mangatarere Stream Flow Monitoring Data

Appendix 3: Resource Consents for Other Water Takes from Mangatarere Stream

Appendix 4: Indicative Monitoring Details for Carrington Water Race Scheme


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 1-1 Introduction

1 Introduction1.1 PreambleCarterton District Council (‘CDC’) operates and maintains the existing open water race network in the Carterton District. Two water race schemes make up this network, being the Taratahi and Carrington Water Race Schemes. The network’s principal use is to supply drinking water to farm animals, but water is also used for a number of other purposes, such as domestic and industrial (non-potable purposes), fire fighting and a limited amount of irrigation.

The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) requires the CDC to submit resource consent applications to the Greater Wellington Regional Council for the continued operation and maintenance of the water races. Under the RMA, the water races have been continuing to operate and be maintained under existing use rights. The applications that this Assessment of Environmental Effects (AEE) supports would replace these existing use rights.

Activities involved in operating and maintaining the water race network, and which require resource consent, are summarised as follows:

(1) All structures located in/on/over/under the bed of natural rivers, i.e. intake structures and discharge structures and flumes; consent is also required for their on-going maintenance/replacement;

(2) All works necessary in the beds of natural rivers to facilitate water flow into the intake structures;

(3) All water takes and diversions from natural water bodies into the water race network; and

(4) All discharges of water, including any water containing contaminants, from the water race network to water, whether the discharge is a point or non-point discharge.

The basis of the applications is to enable the water races to continue to be operated and maintained as they have over the last ten years. This means CDC is seeking resource consent to continue to take water from the Mangatarere Stream at the same rate it has historically taken water.

For the purposes of the resource consent applications, the Taratahi Water Race Scheme and Carrington Water Race Scheme have been split into two separate AEEs. Whilst much of the information is similar, they have slightly different environment context and conditions.

1.2 Purpose of this Document The purpose of this document is to provide an assessment of the potential environmental effects that the continued operation and maintenance of the Carrington Water Race Scheme and associated works may have on the environment, in support of the applications for resource consents.

An assessment of effects on the environment is required to accompany any application for resource consent under the provisions of Section 88 of the RMA. This document has been prepared in accordance with the Fourth Schedule of the RMA.

This report sets out:

The background and history to the water race – when and why the water races were established

A description of the Existing Environment – what are the components of the water race network, and the current environmental conditions, including what water has been taken

A description of the Project – including a description of the proposed water take and ongoing operation and maintenance works


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 1-2 Introduction

Consent considerations and information requirements – including what matters are to be assessed and information provided in the resource consent applications

Assessment of Effects – the assessment of the actual or potential environmental effects of the water race network

Mitigation measures and monitoring – suggested mitigation measures and monitoring put forward by CDC

Consultation – description of the consultation undertaken and how it has influenced the applications

Alternatives Considered – an assessment of alternative water race options considered

Statutory Assessment – overview of Resource Management Act and relevant plan provisions (e.g. Regional Policy Statement and Regional Plan)


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 2-1 Background and History

2 Background and History 2.1 Water Race Network History The water race network in the Carterton district has been in place for over 100 years and is an important part of the history of the District. David Yerex1 documented the history of the Carterton District in 1999 as part of the District’s Millennium celebrations. Below is an extract from this publication which briefly describes the history of the water races:

“BETTER WATER

The settlers in the Three Mile Bush drew their water from a natural water course that flowed parallel to High Street. Subsequently an intake was placed in the Atiwhakatu and pipes laid to the reservoir in Chester Road. These pipes were crushed by a moving hillside and the system failed. In any event as more homes were built, and fighting fires became a priority, its inadequacies became all too apparent. A solution did not present itself, however, until the WSCC succeeded in getting an Act through Parliament in 1886 allowing them to draw water from the Atiwhakatu Stream.

The object was to provide stock water throughout the Taratahi, which ‘browned off’ badly in some summers that it was commonly referred to as ‘the Taratahi Desert’. Two totara boxes were placed in the bed of the stream and water races created by workers with pick and shovel and a horse-drawn scoop. A second intake was set in place later in the Waingawa to increase the flow as more and more people took advantage of the supply. Eventually a network of water races 500km long, servicing 46,000 hectares, was in place.

The Carrington water race of 40km was later added, drawing water from the Mangatarere. In addition to providing water for stock, the races also supplied water to toilet systems and hot water cylinders in homes not on town supply, and maintained several streams which otherwise dried up in summer. They were the source of water for fighting rural fires, and washing down plants on dairy farms, and gradually gained a number of industrial users. A water rate was applied to all users to cover costs of Council maintenance.”

An article in the Wairarapa Agricultural News2 documented the establishment of the water races as well. This article describes the current issues of the day relating to agricultural activities in the Wairarapa (e.g. animal health issues and new processing factories), and in relation to water races it stated:

“After a good deal of agitation, also the customary delay, the settlers of the Upper Plain (Masterton) have at last succeeded in securing a well-constructed water race. By means of races an excellent supply of water is obtained from the Waingawa River, and extends over a considerable area of land, which, hitherto, was practically useless during the summer months, but will now be rendered a superb pasturing country. The scheme – a great desideratum – was economically and inexpensively carried out, and will prove a boon a great boon to the particular settlers concerned. Some time ago a proposal was made to construct a scheme to water the Opaki, but no further steps were taken than to decide on obtaining an engineer’s opinion, which resolution was never carried into effect. Up to the present three water races have been constructed – namely, Moroa (the longest established, and near Greytown), Taratahi, and the Upper Plain – and it is surprising, after witnessing the great success of the two first named, that similar schemes are not more generally in existence.”

1 Yerex, David (1999), Carterton…Biography of a Country Town and District, Carterton District Council 2 Wairarapa Agricultural News, Issue 2486, 6 November 1901, Page 9


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 2-2 Background and History

These two extracts provide details of the importance of the water races in the history of the Carterton District and the significant contribution they have been to the economic and social wellbeing of the area.

The water races are now an established part of the Carterton District (as well as other rural areas of the Wairarapa), both in a geographic/landscape sense, and in an economic/land use sense. The races were, and still are, the principal means for supplying water to stock on the Taratahi plains. Without this water, many forms of farming would not have been possible historically or currently, and/or animal welfare would be severely compromised.

As documented above, the water races have historically been used for many secondary purposes, which is an important part of the contribution the water race network makes to the local area. These secondary uses include as a domestic water supply and irrigation purposes. Another very important use of the open race network is as a source of fire-fighting water, particularly where there is a lack of available water on the Taratahi plains during the summer months.

The above extracts also highlight the contribution the water races make towards the ecological and amenity values of the area. The races provide a strip of greenery and biodiversity in what would otherwise be a dry and waterless area, including streams which typically would dry up in summer.

Without the race network, the Carterton District (and wider Wairarapa region) would not be what it is today in terms of its economic and social progress.


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 3-1 Existing Environment

3 Existing Environment 3.1 The Water Race Network Within the Carterton District, the CDC operates an extensive and complex network of open water races. In total, there is approximately 270 kilometres of races supplying approximately 12,500 hectares of land. The network serves approximately 330 properties.

The water races are open channels cut into the ground, and all operate by gravity. All road crossings and the majority of gateways are piped with culverts. Flumes exist to cross some natural (typically ephemeral) watercourses.

The CDC is responsible for operating, maintaining, and administering the network. Where races are contained within private property, the Council can enforce the maintenance of the races through local government bylaws.

The network within the Carterton District is divided into two discrete schemes: Taratahi Water Race Scheme and Carrington Water Race Scheme. The primary source of water for the Taratahi Water Race Scheme is the Waingawa River and the Carrington Water Race Scheme source is the Mangatarere Stream. The Carrington Water Race Scheme is located on the southern side of the Mangatarere Stream and extends in a southerly direction. The Scheme effectively covers the north-eastern half of a triangle of land bounded by the Kaipatangata Stream to the west, the Mangatarere Stream to the south and east, and the foothills of the Tararua Ranges to the north.

The Taratahi and Carrington Water Race Schemes interact with and are connected to a number of perennial and historically ephemeral waterbodies. This interaction and connection is in the form of a water source to supply the water races as well as a receiving environment for discharges from the water race.

The general area of the Carrington Water Race Scheme is dominated by a mix of primary production activities, particularly dairying and dry stock farming. There is also a large piggery in the area.

The ecological and amenity values of the water races are described in detail in Section 6 of this AEE.

3.2 Current Take and Usage Water is taken from the Mangatarere Stream and is fed into the main water race channel. The intake structure is located at grid reference NZMS 260, S26 2148 2675. Access to the intake is via a right of way from Mangatarere Valley Road.

The Carrington water race intake is located on the true right bank of the Mangatarere Stream, in a shallow pool at the end of a sharp left hand bend in the river. The intake structure is a submerged pipe with a coarse screen over the inlet (refer Figure 3-2), which then feeds an underground pipe to a flow regulating stop log structure. At this structure, the water race becomes can open channel.

A rock boulder weir was constructed in 2002 across the river to deepen the water at the intake pipe in response to the decreasing water depth at that location (refer Figure 3-1).

Downstream from the piped section there is a diversion channel which diverts excess water back to the Mangatarere Stream, primarily during flood events.



Figure 3-1: Carrington Water Race Rock Boulder Weir in Mangatarere Stream

Figure 3-2: Carrington Water Race Intake from Mangatarere Stream

The Carrington Water Race has a consent to take up to 113L/s (WR 92/105). A condition of this consent imposes a step-down allocation regime during low river flows, with the Carrington Water Race take restricted to 50L/s when the river flow is below 150L/s.

3.2.1 Abstracted Flows and Usage The water abstracted has previously been ‘measured’ by CDC using rudimentary techniques at the time of the original applications in 2001. The measured flows were:

Table 3-1: CDC Measured Flow

Date Flow (L/s)

9 January 2001 205

7 February 2001 100

3 April 2001 62

10 May 2001 126

2 July 2001 86

Average 116

An analysis of the usage of water in the water race network was undertaken in 20003. For the Taratahi Water Race, this analysis measured evaporation rates, but assumed level of water take/consumption, seepage to ground, and discharge/return to other waterbodies. Therefore, these assumed levels are considered indicative rather than definitive.

3 Stronge, J.M. An Investigation into the Taratahi and Carrington Water Races, Carterton, Wairarapa. Research project for Bachelor Applied Science, Massey University, Palmerston North, 2000.



Figure 3-3: Taratahi Water Race – Assumed Usage - January

While this information was originally compiled approximately 10 years ago, land use activities and the nature and use of the water race has no changed significantly in this time. Therefore, this information is considered to still carry some relevance.

This information shows the actual take or consumption of water from the water races is a relatively small proportion. There is a relatively large portion that is seepage to ground, which may be supplying groundwater or other surface water resources in the district.

For the component of the water that is taken or consumed from the water race, the predominant purpose is for stock drinking water. A survey of water race users in 2000 showed the following results:

Figure 3-4: Survey Results of Water Use for the Taratahi and Carrington Water Races in 2000

The table below lists the current industrial users who take water from the Carrington Water Race system. The amount of water taken by each industrial user is relatively small (estimated to be between 1-2 l/s).

Table 3-2: List of Industrial Users of Water Extracted from the Carrington Race Water

Name Location/Address Purpose/Use of Water

Reids Piggery Haringa Road Wash down and stock water

Evaporation

Seepage

Consumption

Return

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

Num

ber o

f Pro

pert

ies

Water Use

Stock

Dairy Shed Cooling

Dairy Shed Cleaning

Irrigation

Domestic

Garden

Fire



3.3 River Values The Wairarapa is a large river valley bounded by the Tararua and Rimutaka Ranges to the west and Aorangi and Puketoi Ranges to the east. The ranges open out to rolling foothills, leading down to the valley floodplain.

Four main rivers flow from these ranges through the floodplain. These rivers are the Ruamahanga, Waingawa, Waiohine and Tauherenikau. The Ruamahanga is the largest river extending from the northern Tararua Ranges to Lake Onoke in the south (with flood flows to Lake Wairarapa over the Oporua Spillway), with the Waingawa and Waiohine flowing into the Ruamahanga and the Tauherenikau flowing into Lake Wairarapa.

The Wairarapa has three distinct climatic patterns. The Tararua and Rimutaka hills have very high rainfall (up to 5,000mm/yr), the plains have warm dry summers and cool wet winters (900-1,500mm/yr) and the eastern hills, which have similar annual rainfall to the plains, but this eastern hill country is also influenced by ocean climate patterns. Given this climate, the river flows vary throughout the year, and dependent on weather events.

In addition to the main rivers, there are a series of permanent and ephemeral surface waterbodies which cross the floodplain. In relation to the Carrington Water Race Scheme, the Mangatarere Stream is one of these lower order streams in the Wairarapa which is largely perennial but does experience regular periods in a number of reaches which are surface dry.

The section below briefly describes the ecological, amenity, visual, and cultural values of the main rivers relevant to the Taratahi Water Race Scheme. The effect of the proposed activities on these values is described in detail in Section 6 of this AEE.

3.3.1 Mangatarere Stream The Mangatarere Stream is a small gravel-bed river in the western portion of the Carterton District. The Mangatarere Stream is the main tributary of the Waiohine River and has a total catchment of approximately 157 km2. The Mangatarere Stream originates in the foothills of the Tararua Range and the stream has a length of approximately 31 km before its confluence with the Waiohine River at State Highway 2, south of Carterton township.

Most of the upstream section of the Mangatarere Stream, including its tributaries, are located partially with the eastern fringes of the Tararua Forest Park. The Tararua Forest Park is a relatively undisturbed native forest and tussock land. The upper catchment of the main branch of the Mangatarere Stream is characterised by steeply sloping hill country transitioning to more open river valley near the abstraction point for the Carrington water race. The stream passes through a gorge as part of this transition, and the river begins to meander as it enters to the river valley.

Water Quantity

Greater Wellington Regional Council has measured flows for the Mangatarere Stream at the Gorge monitoring site above the Carrington Water Race intake since 1999 (refer Appendix 2 for river flow site information and flow data).

Table 3-3 below sets out the monthly mean flows and monthly minima together with the year in which the lowest monthly flow occurred.

Table 3-3: Summary of Mangatarere Stream Mean and Minimum Flow Records

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Mean Monthly Flow (1999-2008) (l/s)

896 1060 1035 929 1656 2663 2892 2779 1558 2985 1709 1445

MonthlyMinimum (l/s)

184 159 362 245 775 1302 1442 621 473 839 426 445

Year 2008 2008 2001 2001 2002 2007 2001 2005 2005 1999 2005 2007



The lowest monthly flows (e.g. 159 l/s in February 2008) are much lower than the mean values for the corresponding month. The monthly minimum flows are commonly experienced in the months of February, March and April.

In addition to the mean and minimum monthly flows, shorter periods when the Mangatarere Stream experiences low flows are relevant to this application. Table 3-4 below provides a summary of the low flow frequency analysis for the Mangatarere Stream at the Gorge (noting the current existing use rights for the Carrington Water Race is based on flow measured at the Gorge).

Table 3-4: Summary of Mangatarere Stream Low Flow Frequency Analysis

Annual Recurrence Interval (ARI) or Return Period 1-Day (l/s) 7-Day (l/s) 14-Day (l/s) 28-Day (l/s)

Mean Annual Low Flow (MALF) 168 - - -

2.33 Years 138 161 201 283

5 Years 109 127 154 205

10 Years 93 108 127 163

20 Years 81 94 108 131

100 Years 62 70 77 80

Aquatic Habitat and Water Quality

Greater Wellington Regional Council has recently completed a study on water quality in the Mangatarere Stream. The conclusion from this study states:

“Surface water quality is degraded in the lower Mangatarere Stream catchment, from both a regional and national perspective. This degradation generally begins in the main stem downstream of the Gorge, where the stream opens onto the more intensively farmed plains. Degradation in stream water quality is evident in the form of elevated dissolved nutrient concentrations, E. Coli bacteria counts above guideline values for stockwater and/or contact recreation and, at some locations in the lower catchment, reduced water clarity.

Both dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) and dissolved reactive phosphorus (DRP) loads increase with distance down the catchment. Based on the September 2008–August 2009 sampling period, the patterns of increase differ, with DIN loads increasing consistently with distance downstream, and DRP loads increasing significantly in the lower reaches of the catchment, primarily as a result of the Carterton WWTP discharge. The Carterton WWTP discharge also contributes DIN to the Mangatarere Stream, both directly and indirectly via seepage to groundwater from under the oxidation ponds, wetland cells and land application area adjacent to the stream. However, the DIN input is relatively minor at higher stream flows when non-point sources account for the majority of the DIN. Ecological sampling undertaken by Carterton District Council confirms that the discharge has a measurable impact on invertebrate health, particularly in the summer months when stream flows are lower.”4

This study has highlighted the degraded state of the water quality in the Mangatarere Stream, with this degradation attributed to both point and non-point discharge sources, changes in riparian conditions and catchment wide land use changes. Therefore, the changes in water quality in the Mangatarere Stream comparing the quality at the intake with the quality at the most downstream discharge of unused water race water near Brooklyn Road needs to consider these wider issues, and not just the discharges from the water races.

The detailed results from the State of the Environment sampling which informed the above report are described below. Table 3-5 below details the State of the Environment sampling location for the Mangatarere Stream.

4 Greater Wellington Regional Council (2010), Mangatarere Stream Catchment Water Quality Investigation, Page 123



Table 3-5: Relevant State of the Environment Sampling Locations for the Mangatarere Stream

GWRC Site No. Name of waterway and location Easting Northing Substrate Dominant cover

RS50 Mangatarere S at SH 2 2719786 6013880 Hard Pasture

Tables 3-6 and 3-7 below record the periphyton and aquatic invertebrate indicator (MCI) data for the relevant sampling location on the Waingawa River.

Table 3-6: Periphyton Levels for the Mangatarere Stream

Streambed cover (%)

Filamentous (>2 cm long) Mats (>0.3 cm thick)

SiteNo

Site Name Max n >30 % cover

n Max n >60 % cover

n

RS50 Mangatarere Stream at SH 2 100 2 10 2 0 10

Table 3-7: Aquatic Invertebrate Indicator (MCI) for the Mangatarere Stream (and tributaries)

SiteNo

Site Name AFDM(g/m2)

Chlorophyll a

(mg/m2)

MCIscore

MCIQuality Class

QMCI %EPT Taxarichness

RS50 Mangatarere S at SH 2 6.63 47.76* 92.8 Fair 4.66 18.6 25

- Kaipatangata S (Dalefield Rd)

- - 101.1 Good 4.87 10.1 -

- Mangatarere (at Dalefield)

- - 109.7 Good 5.61 56.2 -

- Beef Creek - - 73.3 Poor 4.48 0.3 -

- Enaki S (above Mangatarere conf)

- - 114.5 Good 6.81 69.7 -

- Enaki (Belvedere Rd) - - 106.6 Good 5.77 91.5 -

- Hinau (at Gully Rd) - - 98.4 Fair 5.02 78.6 -

- Mangatarere Road end - - 138.4 Excellent 8.05 83.1 -

*The Chlorophyll a measure is very near non-compliance with MfE (2000) guidelines.

The aquatic fauna data in the lower reaches of the Mangatarere Stream suggest a fair to poor water quality and aquatic habitat condition with limited EPT taxa and a community generally of ronust taxa. This condition improves higher up in the catchment. The main tributaries generally also show decreased health and poor water quality indications, accept for the Enaki Street above the Mangatarere Stream confluence.

The SOE report in terms of water chemistry qualified the Mangatarere Stream as having poor water quality failing in terms of clarity, E.coli levels, nitrite-nitrate nitrogen, ammonia nitrogen and dissolved reactive phosphate. Only dissolved oxygen did not fail the test parameters. Only four other streams measured (of the 55 in total measured) were in poorer condition.

A comprehensive study was carried out by the GWRC (Milne et al) in 2010 over a period of two years (August 2008 to July 2010). This set of studies more fully assessed the range of values and conditions associated with the natural waterways (i.e. not the water races) on the Mangatarere Stream, Waiohine River and many of their tributaries (Enaki, Hinau gully, Kaipatangata Stream and Beef Creek). Without repeating the detail of this large study, the essence in regard to the waterway quality and issues relevant to this application are summarised below.

The results indicated that degradation of the Mangatarere Stream generally begins downstream of the “gorge” on the farmed plains. Degradation takes the form of elevated nutrient concentrations, E.coli



increases (above guideline values), reduced water clarity, DIN and DRP increases, which the level of nutrient concentrations increasing the further downstream. The Carterton wastewater treatment plant was identified as a major DRP pollution source in this study. Nutrient concentrations are exacerbated by lower flows and contamination of DIN, which is not an issue when the Mangatarere Stream is at “higher” flows. Reid’s piggery was also noted as a contaminant loading “point” source issue for the Mangatarere Stream as a whole.

Beef Creek was assessed to have very poor water quality and contributes approximately one third of the DIN and DRP loading to the lower Mangatarere system which discharges to the Waiohine River. Dairy shed effluent and stock in general were identified as the two primary nutrient / contaminant issues from land use activities.

The lack of riparian cover, periods of low and/or stable water flow, and contaminant levels causing nuisance periphyton growth were all identified as drivers for reduced (poor) aquatic invertebrate health in the lower Mangatarere Stream reaches. Water temperature, low flows, lack of riparian cover and stock access were viewed as the primary stream health issues in the upper portion of the catchment.

The study noted that the Mangatarere Stream “naturally” goes surface dry (e.g. at Andersons line). However, as the study identifies, an increase in surface water take or ground water take is likely to exacerbate the frequency and period of time of surface dry conditions.

In summary, the study concludes that nutrient levels need to be managed to a much lower level and that stock exclusion and riparian re-vegetation are aspects to consider in maintaining water / habitat quality. A trend of decreasing MCI scores from 2004 to 2009 supports the contention that, overall, and in general, the Mangatarere system is declining in quality in regard to the aquatic environment.

Fish and Game and other organisations note the Mangatarere Stream as a Brown trout spawning river. The NIWA data base has a number of records for the Mangatarere Stream and Waiohine River and tributaries (i.e. within the water race area). A summary of those records is present below in Tables 3-8 and 3-9.

Table 3-8: Frequency of Recorded Fish Species from NIWA Database for the Waiohine River and Mangatarere Stream (and tributaries)

Waterbody kora

long fin eel

short fin eel

upland bully

comm

onbully

brown mud

fish

red fin bully

torrent fish

lamprey

Brown trout

dwarf galaxid

Crans bully

perch

inanga

Waiohine River 2 1 1 1 2 1 1 2

Mangatarere Stream 9 14 11 6 1 1 2 14 1 1 1

Mangatarere Streamtributary 1 3 2 2

Kaipatangata Stream 4 5 2 2 1 1 4

EnakiStreamtributary 5 8 4 3 1 1 1 2 1 1

EnakiStream 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1

Beef creek 1 1



Table 3-9: Coded Abundance of Recorded Fish Species from NIWA Database for the Waiohine River and Mangatarere Stream (and tributaries)

Waterbody

kora

long fin eel

short fin eel

upland bully

comm

onbully

brown mud

fish

red fin bully

torrent fish

lamprey

Brown trout

dwarf galaxid

Crans bully

perch

inanga

Waiohine River c r r r c a r c

Mangatarere Stream a a c c o r o c c r a

Mangatarere Streamtributary c c c c

Kaipatangata Stream a c c o c a r

EnakiStreamtributary c c c o o c r a r

EnakiStream r c r c r c c

Of interest is the frequent occurrence of crayfish and long fin eel, both threatened species, as well as occasional occurrences of dwarf galaxids, brown mud fish, lamprey, Crans bully, inanga, common bully, torrent fish and red fin bully, also all threatened (Declining) species (Alibone et al 2010).

The Mangatarere Stream in and of itself supports at least 11 species of fish, nine native, seven of which are “threatened” species, which would make this waterway “significant”.

There is little to no information as to the values supported by the races themselves and nothing at this stage can be noted in regard to what flora and fauna are supported by the races or what the water quality and physical habitat is like in the races.

Recreation and Amenity Values

The main recreational activity for the Mangatarere Stream is trout fishing. The amenity and visual values of the Mangatarere Stream have been partially modified from their natural state in the vicinity of the Carrington water take location. The river bed has been modified with the construction of a rock boulder weir (refer Figure 3-5 and Figure 3-6).

Figure 3-5: Mangatarere Stream immediately downstream of Carrington Water Race Intake

Figure 3-6: Mangatarere Stream immediately upstream of Carrington Water Race Intake



The Mangatarere Stream is listed in the Wellington Freshwater Regional Plan as being important for a number of reasons:

Table 3-10: Wellington Freshwater Regional Plan

Appendix Location Waterbody Reason

Appendix 4: Important Trout Habitat

Upstream of the Waiohine confluence

Mangatarere Stream Trout

Appendix 7: Water Bodies with Water

Quality Identified as Needing Enhancement

Lower reaches (from Waiohine confluence

upstream to approximately Reid’s

piggery)

Mangatarere Stream Aquatic Ecosystems

3.4 Other Values of the Taratahi Plains The Taratahi Water Race network is linked to a range of other values on the Taratahi Plains.

Terrestrial Ecosystems

The Taratahi Plains has been highly modified with now a predominantly rural working environment. However, there are a few pockets of indigenous flora and fauna which the water races support. For the Carrington Water Race Network one important area of indigenous flora and fauna in Fensham Reserve. Fensham Reserve is a 48 hectare remnant kahikatea swamp forest, which also contains wetlands for the nationally vulnerable mudfish and the regional threatened plant Botrychium biforme;(Empson & Sawyer 1996). Kanuka, matai, rimu black beech, titoki and kowhai are the dominant vegetation types in the reserve. A water race runs through the kahikatea portion of this area on the north-west end.

There are other smaller wetlands and areas of indigenous flora and fauna which the water races supply and/or pass through. These wetlands contribute to the overall indigenous biodiversity values of the Taratahi Plains.

As described above, a portion of water in the water races is “lost” to groundwater by seepage. While in one sense this seepage can be seen as inefficient or a loss, and may also be seen as a positive in terms of recharging groundwater levels in locations which historically experience ground water shortages. Given the length of time the water races have been in operation and the understood relationship between surface water and ground water, this seepage could be classified as one of the other values for the water race network and contributor to the existing environment.

3.5 Land Use There are a range of land uses undertaken on the Taratahi Plains in the area serviced by the Carrington Water Race Network. The predominant land use is primary production activities consisting of dry stock grazing and dairying.

3.6 Existing Resource Consents In order to understand fully the existing environment within the vicinity of the water race network, it is necessary to consider the existing resource consents that relate to other activities in the area, principally, other surface water takes.

There are 10 other take consents within the Mangatarere Stream catchment, with one of these takes upstream of the Carrington water race take and the rest downstream. The majority of these takes are for irrigating farm land. Appendix 3 contains details of these other resource consents.

In addition to the above consents, there are other resource consents for ground water takes and discharge consents for a range of activities, such as effluent disposal for dairy farms and intensive farming activities (e.g. piggery).


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 4-1 Proposal Description

4 Proposal Description 4.1 IntroductionCarterton District Council (CDC) propose to renew or apply for all resource consents necessary to legally operate and maintain every aspect of the open water race network within the Carrington Water Race Scheme. In short, CDC is seeking to re-consent an existing water permit to take water from the Mangatarere Stream and obtain all associated consents for works to the beds of rivers and discharges.

Given the range of consents required, Table 4-1 below summarises the type of works and the relevant section of the Resource Management Act 1991 which applies.

Table 4-4-1: Relevant Resource Management Act Sections

Description Resource Management Act Reference

All structures located in/on/over/under the bed of natural rivers, i.e. intake structures and some discharge structures, flumes, and siphons

(maintenance of these structures is also required) Section 13

All works necessary in the beds of natural rivers to facilitate water flow into the intake structures and water races Section 13

All water takes and diversions from natural water bodies into the water race network Section 14

All discharges of water (including any water containing contaminants) from the water race network to water, whether the discharge is a point or non-

point discharge Section 15

Based on the above, this section of the AEE is divided into three sub-sections dealing with consents required under Sections 13, 14, and 15 of the RMA respectively. An overall map showing the location and type of consents sought is contained in Appendix 1 of this AEE.

4.2 Section 13 – River Bed Structures and Works Resource consents are sought for all structures and works in/on/under/over river beds that form part of the Carrington Water Race Scheme. This section is split into two parts: the first part relates to structures and works for the Mangatarere intake, and the second part relates to all other structures and works located throughout the water race network.

4.2.1 Mangatarere Stream Take Structures

As described in Section 3 of this AEE, the existing intake structure is a submerged pipe with a coarse screen over the inlet located on the true right bank of the Mangatarere Stream located at grid reference NZMS 260, S26 2148 2675. Access to the intake is via a right of way from Mangatarere Valley Road. This river intake feeds through a short section of underground pipe to a flow regulating stop long structure and then into the open water race channel.

The flow regulating structure consists of a metal frame and timber panels. It is manually adjusted by the race operator to ensure adequate stockwater is provided to the network, while preventing excess floodwater from entering the races.

Regular maintenance of the intake surface is undertaken by the race operator. These maintenance works include clearing of flood debris (e.g. vegetation and gravels) by hand and machinery. River water is diverted towards the intake structure using appropriate riverbed works.



River Bed Works

To maintain an adequate and consistent flow of water to the intake in the Mangatarere Stream, a rock boulder weir was constructed in 2002 (refer Figure 3-1 and Figure 3-2). The weir was constructed using imported boulders and pile-driven railway irons, and was formed using an excavator.

During flood flows, the weir may be damaged by the force of the flow. Following a flood, the weir may need to be repaired to maintain the water flow in the intake. These repair works could include removal of silt and flood debris adjacent to the intake and re-forming the weir itself. Most repair work is completed using an excavator on the stream banks or within the stream channel.

The magnitude of the repair works depend on the magnitude of the flood flow (i.e. a larger flood event will require a larger amount of repair works (in terms of both time, scope and magnitude of works).

4.2.2 Network Wide Operation and Maintenance Structures

As described in Section 3 of this AEE, the Carrington Water Race Scheme involves a network of open water channels. Most of these channels have been formed over the last 60 years to provide stock water to rural properties. In some places, what were previously natural streams (permanently flowing or ephemeral) form part of the water race network and these natural streams are now significantly influenced by the operation of the water race.

In addition, there are a few locations where a water race crosses a natural stream (typically ephemeral) or vice versa. In some locations, a flume has been constructed to separate the water in the natural stream from the water race. The existing crossovers (structures and non-structure points) intermittently require maintenance, such as repairing leaks in structures and minor repairs such as stream bank erosion.

There are generally no structures for discharges, as the race connects to a natural stream via an open channel. Where structures do exist, these are generally culverts below roads or access tracks.

Within the water race network itself, there are a number of existing culverts where access tracks or roads cross the water races and/or natural streams. On occasions, new crossings may be constructed across the water race and/or maintenance carried out on existing crossings.

A network wide land use consent is sought to undertake the range of operational and maintenance activities on the water race network described above, including natural streams. For the Carrington Water Race Scheme, it is estimated up to 0.5 kilometres of re-alignment works could be undertaken per year, approximately 1.0 kilometres of cleaning, and 5 new and upgraded (replacement or larger diameter) culverts per year. It is expected a condition of consent would be imposed which sets out the parameters for this land use consent, such as the maximum length of piping/culvert installation in a 12 month period and notification/reporting process to GWRC. Providing for the maintenance and ongoing operation of these existing structures ensures the efficient functioning of the Carrington Water Race Scheme.

River Bed Works

To maintain an adequate and consistent flow of water in the water races, regular maintenance is undertaken in the water races. This maintenance is primarily clearing excess silt and vegetation (macrophyte) from the bed and banks of the water races. Excavated material is typically small quantity and is spread out on-site adjacent to the water race. In some locations where the natural streams effectively form part of the water race network, these maintenance works are also undertaken in the natural streams.

In addition, some water races are re-aligned to meet the needs of landowners. Where the water races connect to natural streams, these re-alignment works may also require works to river beds to open and close sections of the re-aligned water race.

The maintenance works are generally carried out over the summer months when the flows in the water races are lowest. The works are undertaken by an excavator. CDC undertakes all maintenance works throughout the water race network.



4.3 Section 14 – Takes, Diversions, Use Consent is sought to take and use water from the Mangatarere Stream as the source of water for the Carrington Water Race. Consent is also sought for a secondary water take/diversion associated where a natural stream interconnects with the Carrington Water Race Scheme. The location of these water takes/diversions are shown on the map in Appendix 1. The water will principally be used to supply drinking water to stock. There are other secondary uses of the water such as irrigation of domestic gardens and limited domestic use for non-potable purposes.

4.3.1 Mangatarere Stream Take CDC seeks consent to take and use water from the Mangatarere Stream at a maximum rate of 113 l/s for up to 24 hours/day to supply the base/core operation of the Carrington Water Race Scheme. The water take will be reduced when river flows in the Mangatarere Stream are lower (step down regime), and a supplementary or ‘flush’ flow could be taken during flood or fresh flows. The following water take regime is proposed (noting that this is not the current/status quo take (which is a flat 113 L/s, or 50L/s when the river is below 150L/s)):

Table 4-2: Proposed Mangatarere Stream Water Take

Mangatarere Stream Flow Measured at Gorge

Proposed Water Take Proposed Abstraction % of the Mangatarere Stream

flow

Above 1,200 l/s 250 l/s 21%

330 – 1,200 l/s 113 l/s 9 – 34%

240 – 330 l/s 65 l/s 20-27%

Below 240 l/s 50 l/s 21%

These water takes are based on the assumed historical and current level of water taken from the Mangatarere Stream but are an increase on the current “allowed” take regime. These flows are also based on the flow needed in order to deliver a satisfactory flow of water for stock water supply at the most remote distribution races in each water race branch. There is a minimum flow required in order to ‘drive’ water down the race system to the most distant points (that being somewhere around 113 L/s). The step down to 65 l/s could result in a lesser flow in parts of the race system, which means some other downstream users of the water race water (e.g. irrigators) may not receive a sufficient supply of water to fully irrigate.

There is currently an abstraction stop quantum of 240 l/s in the Freshwater Regional Plan for the Mangatarere Stream. It is proposed in this application to adopt, in the absence of any study, a flow rate of 240l/s at the intake as the minimum flow at which abstraction falls to a level of 50 l/s which is considered the minimum take required for the water race system to perform its purpose and function of supplying water to farm animals and domestic use.

In addition to the step-down regime during low flow conditions, a higher take is proposed during high river flows when the Mangatarere Stream exceeds 1,200 l/s. The main purpose of these proposed ‘pulse’ flow injections is to fill up the network during floods and freshes to act as a “flush”. Periodic flushes are required by most natural systems to remove excess algae growths and re-distribute sediment and flush contaminants out of the system. A bypass channel is located in the water race channel below the intake structure to direct excess water during flood conditions back to the river.

With the setting of the control value fixed to the screened culvert take structure built into the stream bank, the flow in the water race is directly linked to the flow in the river – the flow (take) in the water race increases when a flood or fresh occurs in the stream and the flow (take) in the water race decreases if the river flow drops. Therefore, the proposed water take regime provides for this interrelationship between stream flow and water take amount.



4.3.2 Other Water Take/Diversion As described above, the Carrington Water Race Scheme also interconnects with a number of smaller surface waterbodies (typically ephemeral). In one situation, water is discharged into and taken/diverted from a stream in the middle of the scheme. Consent is sought for this water take/diversion as part of the overall Carrington Water Race Scheme:

Table 4-3: Proposed Other Water Take/Diversion

Take No. Shown on

Map in Appendix 1

Waterbody/Location Intake Structure/Diversion Proposed Water Take/Diversion

Estimated Head Water Depth for

Calculating Water Take Flow

C02

Unnamed Stream / Cobden Road

Open diversion channel (300mm dia. pipe for water race discharge

immediately upstream)

160 l/s 0.9 m

The amount of proposed water take/diversion in the above table has been calculated based on the nature and size of the pipe for the discharge from the water race to this stream immediately upstream of the take/diversion location and the estimated headwater depth.

4.4 Section 15 – Discharges Consent is sought to discharge water from the water races, which may contain contaminants, to water. The map in Appendix 1 identifies 9 locations where the water races discharges to water. Of these 9 discharge points, 7 are into the Mangatarere Stream, 1 is into the Enaki Stream (a tributary to the Mangatarere Stream) and 1 is to an unnamed stream near Cobden Road. There are two types of discharges; ‘Discharge (Transfer)’ and ‘Discharge (End)’. The ‘Discharge (Transfer)’ locations are where a water race discharges into natural streams where they contribute to the flow of these streams, and then further downstream, this discharged water is subsequently taken back from the natural stream. ‘Discharge (End)’ is where a water race discharges into a natural waterbody and is not taken further downstream.

The discharge flow is the residual water race water as well as any surface water runoff from the catchment. The rate of discharge is intermittent, and varies according to a number of factors. Such factors include the amount of rainfall runoff entering the stockwater network, and the size of the race that the discharge is installed on.

Depending on the flow of water in the different branches of the water race network, the quantity and nature of the discharges would vary, both over time and between different branches of the water race network. Therefore, a blanket discharge consent is sought to cover these activities. This approach is considered appropriate given the nature of the discharge and the receiving environment. Additionally, there are no effective and efficient alternative methods for discharging the water, or for discharging the water to other receiving environments.



4.5 Summary of Consents Sought The following table is a summary of the activities requiring resource consent for the Taratahi Water Race Scheme.

Table 4-3: Resource Consents Sought by Carterton District Council

Activity Consent No.

Land Use Consent for all structures and works in/on/over/under the bed of the Mangatarere Stream to maintain and facilitate water flow into the water race intake structure

1

Land Use Consent for all structures and works in/on/over/under the bed of natural rivers within the Carrington Water Race Scheme to maintain and operate the water races (structures include but are not limited to flumes, culverts and sumps)

2

A Water Permit to take and use surface water from the Mangatarere Stream at a maximum rate of 113 l/s for up to 24 hours per day for the core/base operation of the Carrington Water Race Network

3

A Water Permit to take, divert and use surface water from the Mangatarere Stream at a maximum rate of 250 l/s for up to 24 hours per day as a supplementary allocation for the Carrington Water Race Network

4

A Water Permit to take, divert and use surface water from an unnamed stream (near Cobden Road) at a maximum rate of 160 l/s for up to 24 hours per day for the Carrington Water Race Network

5

A Discharge Permit to discharge unused water from the Carrington Water Race Scheme which may contain contaminants to various watercourses

6

4.6 Duration of Consents Carterton District Council seeks all resource consents have a term of 20 years. This consent term would provide CDC with certainty in implementing the capital works required to monitor the operation of the water races at a level affordable to the community.


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 5-1 Consent Considerations

5 Consent Considerations This Section of the AEE outlines the consent considerations for resource consent applications under the RMA.

5.1 Section 104 – Consideration of Resource Consent Applications

Section 104 of the RMA requires (subject to Part II of the Act) a consent authority to have regard to the matters in section 104 when considering resource consent applications. Those parts of section 104 that are relevant are set out below:

(1) When considering an application for a resource consent and any submissions received, the consent authority must, subject to Part 2, have regard to-

(a) Any actual and potential effects on the environment of allowing the activity; and

(b) Any relevant provisions of-

(i) national environmental standard: (ii) other regulations: (iii) a national policy statement: (iv) a New Zealand coastal policy statement: (v) a regional policy statement or proposed regional policy statement: (vi) a plan or proposed plan; and

(c) any other matter the consent authority considers relevant and reasonably necessary to determine the application.

(2) When forming an opinion for the purposes of subsection (1)(a), a consent authority may disregard an adverse effect of the activity on the environment if the plan permits an activity with that effect.

Section 104 also states that where an application is made for a new consent in respect of an existing activity for which consent is about to expire (applications made under Section 124 of the RMA), regard must be had to the value of the investment made by the existing Consent Holder.

The actual and potential effects of the project are assessed in Section 6 of this AEE. The relevant planning documents to these applications outlined in (b) above and other matters are assessed in Section 10 of this AEE.

Section 104B: Discretionary Activities

Under section 104B, in making a decision on a Discretionary Activity, a consent authority:

(a) may grant or refuse the application; and

(b) if it grants the application, may impose conditions under section 108.

Section 104B is relevant to all the resource consents sought for the Carrington Water Race Scheme relating to works in the river beds, taking and use of water, and the discharges.

5.2 Section 105 - Matters Relevant to Certain Applications Section 105(1) sets out matters a consent authority must have regard to when considering a resource consent application for a discharge permit. Consideration should be given to the nature of the discharge and the sensitivity of the receiving environment to adverse effects, the applicant's reasons


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 5-2 Consent Considerations

for the proposed choice as well as any possible alternative methods of discharge, including discharge into any other receiving environment.

Section 105(1) applies to the discharge permit sought for discharging the unused water from the water races. The above matters have been addressed in Section 6 of the AEE.

5.3 Section 107 - Restriction on Grant of Certain Discharge Permits

Section 107 sets out particular restrictions on the granting of discharge permits. The nature, quantity and mitigation measures for the proposed discharge of the unused water will ensure that none of the effects set out in section 107 will occur (refer to sections 6 and 7 of this AEE).


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 6-1 Assessment of Environmental Effects

6 Assessment of Environmental Effects The following section summarises and evaluates the effects of the continued operation and maintenance of the Carrington Water Race Scheme on the environment described in Section 3 of this AEE. These effects relate to the physical and natural elements that determine these environments, as well as the social, cultural and economic environment in the Carterton District.

This Section of the AEE outlines the consent considerations for resource consent applications under the RMA.

6.1 Positive Effects The history of the Carrington Water Race Scheme is described in Section 2 of this AEE: in short, the establishment and ongoing operation of the water races has significantly contributed to the economic and social wellbeing of the Carterton District, and indirectly, the wider Wairarapa region. The water races are a key part of the rural community infrastructure in the district, and play a key role in ensuring the ongoing functioning of primary production activities.

Enabling the ongoing operation of the water races will have a range of benefits at both the local and regional level by ensuring a secure supply of water in the district. Water contributes not only to economic, social and cultural wellbeing, but also to health (through providing a safe and clean water supply to animals/stock) and safety (through the security and reliability of a minimum water supply).

The Carrington Water Race Scheme and associated maintenance and operational works will have the following positive effects:

Provision of a safe and secure rural water supply for the farmers of the plains west of Carterton for stock drinking water. The water is essential to maintaining stock health.

Provision of a safe and secure rural water supply for a number of other uses, including domestic (non-potable) water supply, fire-fighting, irrigation, industrial, amenity, aesthetic, ecological, recreation, and other values. These secondary uses make a contribution to the economic and social wellbeing of individual properties owners which would not otherwise be available if the water race system did not exist.

Enables the ongoing effective use of existing infrastructure and provides the rural Carterton area with an economically sustainable water supply scheme. The Scheme will continue to provide essential support for the farmers’ livelihood and positively contribute to the rural economy in the Carterton District and indirectly the wider Wairarapa region. It will assist the local farming community in providing for their economic wellbeing.

Contribute to the environmental diversity and condition of the area as the water races provide or support habitats for many species of indigenous flora and fauna.

Contribute to the amenity values and landscape values of the area. Individual property owners have enhanced their properties through localised improvements through planting and forming water features (e.g. ponds and small lakes).

Many of these positive effects are further discussed in individual sections below.

6.2 SocialThe social effects of the Carrington Water Race Scheme are positive. These social effects relate to the variety of uses of water and the economic benefits derived from the activities using the water. As described in Section 3 of this AEE, water from the water races is used for a number of purposes, and the social effects of these uses is described below.

Stock Water

The principal use of the water races is to provide water to stock. In many areas, other forms of supplying sufficient quantities of water to stock are not readily available. Thus open water races are often the sole source of water for stock.



Many farmers value the water race system as a source of stock water because it is reliable, low cost, and tastes better than trough water. A point raised by many in the consultation process (refer Section 7) was the issue of race versus trough water. The common theme was that troughs are incapable of delivering water to many stock at one time – this can affect animal welfare during dry/hot conditions. Water quality within troughs can also fall severely during warm conditions.

In addition, many of the farming operations in this area have been setup based on the location and alignment of water races, with individual paddocks fenced to efficiently use the land resource and have access to a water race. Any changes to the location, nature or quantity of water in a water race, may have an adverse effect on individual farming operations, which could lead to anxiety and uncertainty for some farmers.

Amenity/Gardening

A number of dwellings on rural properties, areas of amenity improvements on farms (e.g. duck ponds) and rural-lifestyle properties have been undertaken based around the water races. Individual property owners value the amenity and aesthetic qualities of the water races as an important feature on their property, with many properties enhancing these qualities through planting and associated water features (e.g. duck ponds, garden ponds/lakes). These landscape improvements are valued by individual property owners and contribute to their social wellbeing. In addition, they contribute to the wider community wellbeing through attractive and vegetated landscapes. The ecological effects of the water races are discussed further below.

Domestic Water

For a limited number of dwellings, the water races are still used for supplying domestic (non-potable) water. This situation applies for long-established dwellings and when other forms of water supply are not readily available. Therefore, this domestic use contributes to the social wellbeing of these individual dwelling occupants.

Fire Fighting Water Supply

Local fire brigades rely on the water race system for fire fighting purposes. In many locations, water races run close to dwellings, and the races are the only ready source of water for dealing with any potential fires. Without the races, a greater risk to life and property exists. In addition, the water races are a source of water for fighting fires in vegetation fires in the District.

Irrigation

A small portion of the water in the water races is used for irrigation purposes. A few farms use the water in combination with other water takes, and some smaller properties use the water for watering gardens.

Stormwater and Surface Water Run-off

The water races also act as a land drainage mechanism, preventing some surface flooding that might otherwise occur during times of heavy rainfall. This benefits farmers by providing for the efficient movement of surface water run-off and land potentially susceptible to ponding and/or flooding.

Groundwater Recharge

As described in Section 3 of the AEE, some of the water from the water races seeps into the ground and therefore contributes to groundwater resources. This seepage could contribute to groundwater resources across the Taratahi plains.

Economic Effects

The water race network has contributed to the agricultural based economy in the Carterton District. The agricultural economy continues to be a large portion of the Carterton District and the ongoing functioning of the water races would support the economy. Many of the pastoral farms on the Carterton plains rely on the water races for their livelihood. In economic terms, these farms generate revenue and employment for the Carterton District. The closure or reduction of flows in the water races would cause significant adverse effects by reducing the ability to efficiently use some of the land on the Taratahi plains.



Operational and Maintenance Activities

Activities associated with maintaining and operating the water race network (e.g. weed removal and monitoring water levels) could have potential adverse social effects. These social effects include disturbance to residents and farming activities. Regular liaison between CDC (primarily the water race overseer) and residents and farmers would be effective in mitigating these potential effects.

6.3 Assessment of Effects of River Bed Structures and WorksThis section is in two parts, with the first part assessing the effects on the Mangatarere Stream of the river bed structures and works, and the second part assessing the effects on all other river beds through the Carrington Water Race Scheme.

6.3.1 Mangatarere Stream Bed Structures and Works As described in Section 4 of this AEE, the river bed works are usually only required following flood damage to repair the rock boulder weir and clear debris (vegetation and gravels) from the intake structure. In this respect, ambient levels of sediment in the river flow may be relatively high at the time of these works. Any effect of increased sediment levels due to bed disturbance are therefore considered to be negligible.

In stream works to re-establish structures or channels or gravel bars following floods typically cause sediment discharges, local substrate habitat disturbances and sometimes (depending on the nature of works) bank and riparian disturbance. Rarely do they affect fish and fish passage. In a location where the instream activity has been repeated to maintain permanent structures the primary disturbance has already occurred both to the riparian areas, the bank but also the substrate habitat. Since the work envisaged is also typically following a flood to repair the intake feature the disturbance to the bed and even the sediment discharges are minor in effect and of no consequence to the stream ecology next to the disturbance of the flood.

As the flow of the Mangatarere Stream is maintained at all times during these works, they do not cause any effects on the flow regime or other hydrological characteristics of the stream.

Fish passage has been provided for in the design and construction of the weir, with buried logs under the bank edges which have been arranged so as to form conduits for fish to swim through the submerged inter-log spaces. In addition, the boulders and smaller substrate are placed and have been graded to provide pools and chutes up which most swimming fish, and certainly trout, would swim at most flows, other than high flush flows and low summer flows. In the low flow situation, passage is unlikely, but so is the run of river passage, as large expanses of the gravel bed in the middle reaches are surface dry. In other words, in low flow periods, passage over the weir is not required or feasible due to the wider extent of river dryness. It is noted that in some particular instances, the current practice when schools of trout are seen pooling beneath the weir and flows are receding, that the operators currently dig a temporary side channel that does facilitate passage. That practice is proposed to be maintained.

In terms of effects on recreational values, no recreational use is known to occur in this stretch of the Mangatarere River, possibly due to the limited public access nearby. However, angling does occur upstream and downstream of the intake site, therefore it is possible some recreational users may pass through this area intermittently. As the works in the river bed are short term (up to 8 hours), and river flow is maintained both during and after the river bed works, the effects on recreational values are considered no more than minor.

The adverse effects on visual and amenity values of the river from the river bed works are considered to be minor. This assessment is based on river bed materials being used to form the rock boulder weir, therefore, it appears as part of the river bed. In addition, the works are located in close proximity to other human made structures in the area, such as the intake structure and bank erosion structures immediately upstream.

6.3.2 Network Wide Operation and Maintenance As described in Sections 3 and 4 of this AEE, the Carrington Water Race Scheme involves an extensive network of open water channels which require ongoing maintenance. The purpose of the



maintenance works is to ensure an adequate and consistent flow of water is maintained in the water races. As with the water races themselves, some stretches of the interconnected natural streams require regular maintenance to maintain this water flow. This maintenance is primarily clearing excess silt and vegetation (weed) from the bed and banks of the water races and streams.

Clearance of macrophyte has effects on the systems fauna and flora and on its properties involving filtration of nutrients and settlement of sediments. Macrophyte removal also helps maintain a harder substrate base, but reduces the biomass of benthic invertebrates and disturbs fish. Given the history of this activity in the races, it is highly unlikely that there are threatened macrophyte species affected by this action or particular adverse habitat effects. The activity is a constant in the life of the race and its continued presence and the probable tolerances of the communities present, causes no further change to those communities or concern for the persistence, condition or value of those communities.

To mitigate the potential effects of these maintenance activities, the primary mitigation measure proposed is minimising the extent of area disturbed as necessary to maintain water flow. Also, avoiding re-fuelling and maintaining equipment in the river bed would eliminate the risk of contaminants entering river water. Provided these mitigation measures are implemented, the effects of the maintenance works are considered to be no more than minor.

Summary of Effects of River Beds Structures and Works

River bed structures and works in the Mangatarere Stream are for maintaining the intake structure such as clearing debris and maintaining weir to maintain water levels at the intake. The effects from these works are temporary and localised, and overall no more than minor.

River bed structures and works in other natural watercourses are for maintaining the operation of the water race network, such as removing excessive weed and sediment. Minimising the extent of disturbed area is the primary mitigation measure. Mechanical works for maintaining the water race have been fine-tuned over the years, which effectively mitigate the adverse effects to be no more than minor and are generally temporary effects.

6.4 Assessment of Effects of Water Take This section assesses the effects of the water takes on the flow regime, aquatic ecosystems, water quality, and recreational and amenity values of each waterbody consent has been sought to take water from.

6.4.1 Water Take from the Mangatarere Stream Mangatarere Stream hydrology and characteristics

The Mangatarere Stream catchment has a very wide range in annual rainfall, from around 3000mm at the top of the catchment to 900mm on the plains near Carterton. The wettest months are usually June, July, August and October while the driest months are in January to April. At the Mangatarere Stream gorge the mean flow is 1.9 cumecs, the median flow is 840L/s and the MALF 136L/s.

The lowest monthly flow recorded (159 l/s in February 2008) is much lower than the mean values for the corresponding month, in that case by a factor of 6 but typically by a factor of 2 to 3. The monthly minimum flows are commonly experienced in the months of February, March and April (896, 1035 and 929 l/s respectively).

In addition to the mean and minimum monthly flows, shorter periods occur when the Mangatarere Stream experiences low flows which are relevant to this application. The low flow frequency analysis for the Mangatarere Stream at the Gorge (noting the current existing use rights for the Carrington Water Race is based on flow measured at the Gorge) indicates the MALF lies somewhere between 100 and 200 L/s and could be considered for water residual purposes to be around 150L/s (see Table 3-3 in Section 3).

Where the Mangatarere Stream crosses the plains, it is reported by a number of sources (including Milne et al 2010) that the stream tends to lose water to groundwater, but gains water below Andersons Line. Above that point it is reported that the bed often goes surface dry in summer.

The main tributaries enter the Mangatarere Stream in the middle-lower reaches and supply around 2.3 cumecs in the winter-spring months.



The confluence with the Waiohine River immediately downstream of the State Highway 2 bridge were the MALF has been calculated to be 305L/s (Keenan 2009). During low flow periods, the Mangatarere Stream contributes about 10% of the total low flow in the Waiohine River.

Minimum Flow Regime and Habitat Requirements

Given the limited information on the aquatic flora and fauna habitats for the water races and the flow regime in those water races, other than the abstraction quantum from the Mangatarere Stream, the base take proposed for the water races is 50 l/s. The base take/flow in the water races is to ensure the function and role of the water races is not compromised to ensure stock have access to water. However, it is also noted that the water race is anecdotally acknowledged as providing aquatic stable habitat, especially for smaller trout and low or no flows in the race would threaten the existing stable aquatic values.

For the Mangatarere Stream, no minimum flow regime is proposed (except by limiting the base take to 50L/s abstraction when the Mangatarere Stream is below 240L/s). The data available and the water take regime proposed indicates that typically water is and would still be taken and used when the river is at or about the MALF. The 150 L/s MALF estimate is considered to be an estimate of the regular condition created by the current largely un-monitored take at low flow times and acknowledging that there is currently no cessation of take below the minimum flow. If a proposed minimum (no abstraction) point was possible, then that proposed minimum residual flow would likely be 150L/s, which should be sufficient to sustain the existing array of native fish supported by the Mangatarere Stream and the apparent value for brown trout spawning, while acknowledging the value also of the race to these same species.

Effects on the flow regime

As outlined in Section 4, a modified abstraction regime for the Carrington water race is proposed. This modified abstraction regime is summarised in the Table 6-1 below alongside an assessment of the percentage of the flow taken from the Mangatarere Stream.

Table 6-1: Current and Proposed Abstraction Regime for the Carrington Water Race

Waingawa River Flow @ Gauge Site (litres/sec)

Current abstraction allowed (litres/sec)

Proposed abstraction (litres/sec)

Proposed abstraction %

Above 1,200 l/s 113 l/s 250 l/s 21%

330 – 1,200 l/s 113 l/s 113 l/s 9 – 34%

240 – 330 l/s 113 l/s 65 l/s 20 – 27%

Below 240 l/s 50 l/s 50 l/s 21%

Policy 6.2.1 in the Freshwater Regional Plan sets the required flow regime for the Mangatarere Stream. The core allocation has been set at 180 L/s and the corresponding minimum flow required for this take is 330 L/s. The core allocation of 180 L/s represents 54.5% of this flow rate. The current and proposed water race take represents 62.8% of the allowable core allocation at the minimum flow level and 34% of the 330 L/s lower threshold.

Once flow reduces below 330 L/s, the allocation drops to 90 L/s, representing 27.3-37.5%% of the flow. The current and proposed water race take of 113 L/s and 65 L/s represents 125.6% and 72.2% respectively of the allowable allocation, and the take at 65 L/s would be between 20%-27% of the 240 – 330 L/s flow rate (less than the allocation).

Once flow drops below 240 L/s, the current policy provides a zero allocation although a note says that the flow will be available for the reasonable domestic and stock needs for the Carrington Water Race. The proposed take when river flows are below 240 L/s is 50l/s, representing 21% of the flow and what is required to make the race work for the provision of stock and domestic water..

The 1-day MALF for this river is 136 L/s. The proposed low flow take of 50l/s represents 36.8% of this flow rate. The lowest recorded low flow for the river is 159l/s which occurred in February 2008. The river flows at greater than 120l/s for approximately 99% of the time, meaning the 50L/s lower water allocation proposed would very rarely result in less than 100 l/s in the main river and never a complete take..



A supplementary take of up to 250 l/s has been sought when the Mangatarere Stream experiences a fresh or flood exceeding 1,200 l/s, which is consistent with the supplementary allocation level in the policy in the Freshwater Regional Plan. At this level, the proposed abstraction represents up to 21% of the flow. The supplementary take would be restricted to 250 l/s, as any additional flow could lead to flooding downstream in the water race network.

The potential cumulative effects of all consented takes from the Waingawa River has also been considered. These additional takes are summarised in the table below.

Table 6-2: Current and Proposed Allocation of Water from the Upper Mangatarere Stream

Consent No Consent Holder Watercourse Take Vol (l/s) Take Vol (m3/day)

WAR010202 CDC Mangatarere 113 9763

WAR010098 McFadzean Mangatarere 18.9 1504

WAR010370 Reid Mangatarere 17.2 1363

WAR000298 Smith Mangatarere 26.5 2194

Total Allocated Volume 175.6

Based on the above allocations, the total consented take would be 175.6 L/s. This current and proposed allocation is within the core allocation of 180 L/s outlined in Policy 6.2.1 of the Freshwater Regional Plan.

Granting the renewal of this consent would change the proposed volume of water taken from the river. At higher flow events the proposed take would have a reducing effect with increasing river flows. The proposed low flow take is the same as the assumed current take and is not considered to result in any affect greater than what has currently been occurring.

As noted earlier, the Upper Mangatarere Stream experiences surface dry periods where the river flows below the surface within the gravels similar to flowing through an underground aquifer. The water is still considered to be available in a water regime sense, but the surface flow rate cannot be monitored. It is considered the proposed water race take would not alter the current flow regime.

The proposed abstraction regime is considered to generally fit within the minimum flow and core allocation provisions outlined in Policy 6.2.1 of the Freshwater Regional Plan.

In addition to the above water takes from the Upper Mangatarere Stream, GWRC has granted resource consent for a water take from the Carrington Water Race (Daysh, GWRC Ref No. WAR010181 [21345]). This consent permits water to be taken from a branch in the lower part of the Carrington Water Race network at a rate of 21.5 l/s and the water is used for irrigation purposes. This water take is not considered a separate take from the Upper Mangatarere Stream, and effectively forms part of the water race take from the Upper Mangatarere Stream. When the water race is taking water at a rate of 113 l/s from the Upper Mangatarere Stream, sufficient water can be distributed throughout the water race network to supply this irrigation take. However, at the proposed step down of 65 l/s, it is anticipated insufficient water would be available to supply this water take and any abstraction would cease.

Effects on aquatic ecosystems (including fish passage and macroinvertebrates)

Currently, the aquatic ecosystems of the lower-middle Mangatarere Stream are noted to be stressed during the low flow periods due to increasing water temperature associated with an absence of riparian vegetation (shade) and low (shallow) waters as well as a concentration in ammonia, DIN and DRP resulting in periphyton blooms, and resultant oxygen availability (Milne et al 2011). A decrease in the water in the Mangatarere Stream would have the potential to exacerbate these issues, at lower flows, in the absence of stock removal from the river bed and edges, riparian planting and better management of contaminant discharge in surface flows.

However, the proposed water takes would abstract 9-34% of the flow when the river is above 330 l/s, a reduction in take to 27% when the flow was between 240 and 330% (from what was once 47%) and 21% and increasing to around 50% from when the river was 240 L/s and declining. It is only in this lower bracket when flows drops below 200 l/s that the take (as it does currently) could potentially increase the adverse effects discussed above.



The supplementary take proposed as a “fresh” or pulse when the main river is in “flood” is of benefit to the race system. These supplementary flows mean algae and sediment and other settled contaminants are periodically removed and/or re-distributed via this flushing process. In the absence of being able to maintain this process, the water race and natural systems could accelerate in their accumulation of contaminants and seasonal algae issues may be prolonged. Therefore, the water races, while stable habitat, also require such a flush periodically and it is most appropriate to occur when natural flushes are in the main waterway.

Effects on water quality

Reducing water flow has one primary effect related to water quality which is to (where it is clean water) reduce the dilution factor downstream. The current data (Milne et al 2010) suggest that the Mangatarere Stream in general in the upper reaches remains in good quality. Downstream, water quality issues increase until some significant adverse water quality issues persist in the lower reaches (and therefore discharge to the Waiohine River). Those issues are related to land use (pig farming, dairying, wastewater management) and the associated current management issues of production land (e.g. stock access into the beds of waterways, lack of riparian filtration and buffers, etc). In addition, E.Coli, and other pathogen contaminants are present and these pose risk to human health.

A decrease in water to the Mangatarere Stream with an associated potential increase in intensification of the land means a likely increase in contaminant loading. There is no evidence by interference to the middle and upper Mangatarere Stream being relatively uncontaminated that the water races currently discharge poor quality water. However, at this time, the water race contaminant loading is unknown. The current level of water take is apparently insufficient to dilute the contaminant loading through the summer months (as suggested by contamination levels in the lower reaches), even with some race discharge to the Mangatarere Stream.

Effects on recreational and amenity values

The Mangatarere Stream in the vicinity of the water take site and downstream is not considered to provide significant recreational uses to the local community. However, upstream and further downstream of the water take site it is understood the Mangatarere Stream is a popular trout fishing waterbody.

As described above, the minimum flow in the Mangatarere Stream would be maintained with the step-down regime in the amount of water taken for the Carrington water race. This minimum flow is considered appropriate to maintain the current recreational uses that may exist. Therefore, the effect of the abstraction of water on the recreational use of the Mangatarere Stream is considered to be no more than minor.

As described in Section 3 of this AEE, the existing amenity values of the Mangatarere Stream downstream of the water take is a small gravel-bed river on the Wairarapa plains before its confluence with the Waiohine River. With the seasonal variation in river flow, the amenity values of the Mangatarere Stream changes with the proportion of river bed relative to water surface varying throughout the year. It is also recognised the complete drying of some stream reaches (e.g. Mangatarere Stream at Andersons Line) during parts of summer is considered “natural”5.

During the higher river flows in autumn, winter and spring and the proportion of total water taken from the stream, the proposed take is not considered to adversely affect the amenity values during these seasons. During summer with lower river flows, provided the minimum flow in the Mangatarere Stream is maintained using the step-down regime in the amount of water taken for the Carrington water race, the minimum flow is considered appropriate to maintain the amenity values of the Mangatarere Stream, including recognising that stretches of the stream may dry up at times. Therefore, the effect of the abstraction of water on the amenity values of the Mangatarere Stream is considered to be no more than minor.

6.4.2 Other Water Take/Diversion As outlined in Section 4, there is an interconnection between a branch of the water race and a stream (ephemeral). Water is discharged from the water race via a 300mm diameter pipe into this stream.

5 Greater Wellington Regional Council (2010), Mangatarere Stream Catchment Water Quality Investigation, Page 113



Based on the size of the pipe and the estimated headwater of 900mm, a maximum flow of 160 l/s has been calculated. However, based on observations at this site, it is estimated the ‘normal’ flow is in the range of 20-30 l/s. Approximately 300 metres downstream of this discharge point, there is a diversion (take) of this water back into the water race network. It is considered there is a balance between the discharged into this stream and then diverted (taken) back into the water race the short distance downstream. Given this balance in water flow, and that it is effectively a continuation of an existing situation, the effects of this water take/diversion are not considered to change from the existing situation.

6.5 Assessment of Effects of Discharges This section assesses the effects of the discharges of unused water from the water races, where it discharges to water. 8 discharge points have been identified for the Carrington Water Race Scheme as shown on the map in Appendix 1. As described in Section 4 of this AEE, 7 discharge points are to the Mangatarere Stream and 1 is to the Enaki Stream. The nature of the receiving waters are described below and the potential effects on these waters.

Nature of the receiving waters

The ultimately receiving waters for the discharges from the Carrington Water Race System is the Waiohine River via the Mangatarere Stream. In low flow periods the Mangatarere Stream discharge can make up about 10% of the flow of the Waiohine River at the confluence of the Mangatarere Stream. Currently the discharge of water into the Mangatarere Stream from its major tributaries and from the Mangatarere Stream into the Waiohine River is high in contaminants, to the point of being above the GWRC guidelines in regard to nitrogen (Nitrite-Nitrate), ammonia, total nitrogen, total phosphate, DIN and DRP. Measures by Milne et al (2010) frequently exceeded the guidelines in the lower Mangatarere Stream. Therefore, the current water quality discharged to the Waiohine (the receiving environment) is considered poor.

No information is currently available about water quality in the water races or their discharges into the Mangatarere Stream. In the absence of this data, and given the Milne study findings, it is assumed that the race water discharging to the Mangatarere Stream (and in one location the Enaki Stream) are contaminated to similar levels as the data records for the main tributaries and the main stem of the Mangatarere Stream (the contamination in the Mangatarere Stream being a composite of surface run off directly and via “tributaries” which includes the water races). However, it is noted that the poorest water quality is in lower reaches of the Mangatarere Stream, possibly indicating that the water race discharges which are mostly located in the middle reach, are not substantive in quantity or so poor in quality as to cause an obvious immediate water quality issue in the middle Mangatarere Stream.

Effects on aquatic ecosystems of receiving waters

Additional contaminant loading either through additional pollution, or through a reduction in dilution would potentially add further stress to the aquatic system especially in summer. Problematic periphyton growths could increase in frequency and the potential for toxic by-products would likely increase (especially were cyano-bacteria issues arise as is sometimes the case with dairy farm run-off receiving streams (e.g. the Selwyn River in Canterbury).

The status quo discharge quality from the water races, if that could be managed to remain as it currently occurs, is considered not to substantively make worse the Mangatarere Stream. However, continuing with the status quo discharge quality would not provide for any improvement. While it appears the discharges from the water races only have minor adverse effects on the ecology of the river at present, data is sparse and anecdotal evidence is that there are periods of significant stress. Eventually, fish passage and substrate quality, benthic diversity and community value would deteriorate in the absence of improvements of water quality issues primarily related to land use discharges.

Effects on recreational and amenity values of receiving waters

As described above, the proposed discharges are unused water which flows from open water race channels into small streams or larger rivers. The potential effects are likely to be as a result of non-point source pollution and stormwater runoff into the water race networks. This non-point source pollution is likely to result from land use activities in and surrounding the water race networks.



For the Mangatarere Stream, the discharges from the water races are considered to be similar to other non-source discharges in the area. Therefore, the effects of these discharges are considered to not change the existing level of effects on the recreational and amenity values of these waterbodies.


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 7-1 Mitigation Measures and Monitoring

7 Mitigation Measures and Monitoring This section sets out proposed measures to mitigate any actual or potential adverse effects on the environment. The following mitigation measures have been identified:

Water take regime

Minimise impact on river bed

Avoid and minimise wastages

Self-monitoring and reporting

Improved water race management

Minimise surface contaminant discharges

Other District Council initiatives

Each of these mitigation measures are discussed below and draw on details described in earlier sections of this AEE.

7.1 Water Take Regime As described in Section 4 of this AEE, a step-down water take regime is proposed for the water take for the Carrington Water Race Scheme from the Mangatarere Stream. This approach is based on the amount of water taken from the Mangatarere Stream reducing when river flows are low which can be enforced through conditions of consent.

This water take regime is generally in line with the Freshwater Regional Plan policies for water takes from the Mangatarere Stream. The minimum river flows that the step-down regime is based on may maintain ecological and recreation values in the Mangatarere Stream.

During times of reduced water take, CDC and water race users will be responsible for implementing water restrictions at these times, while ensuring the water races still adequately functioning and do not degrade the ecological and other values in the water races and interconnected natural streams. The reduced water take may result in lower levels of service to some properties on the Carrington Water Race Scheme. Significantly more input from the water race operator is required to manage the network during water restrictions.

The Mangatarere Stream flow is automatically monitored by GWRC with telemetered equipment in the Mangatarere Gorge upstream of the water race take. This monitoring provides GWRC with information on when the river flows reaches minimum flow levels. It is anticipated GWRC would continue the current practice of advising all consent holders with water takes from the Mangatarere Stream when the minimum flow levels are triggered. Once notification from GWRC is received, the race operator can make the necessary adjustments to the water take intake controls to reduce the amount of water taken. This procedure can be enforced by conditions of consent.

7.2 Minimise Impact on River Bed The primary mitigation measure is minimising the amount of river bed disturbed. As all structures and water races are existing, the works to disturb the river beds are only associated with maintenance and repair of the existing water race infrastructure. In the case of the works in the Mangatarere Stream bed, the majority of these maintenance and repair works are the result of floods. Therefore, if no major flood events are experienced for long periods in the Mangatarere Stream, it is anticipated minimal works would be undertaken in the bed of the river. Maintenance and repairs are only undertaken as and when required. Similarly, maintenance and repairs works are only undertaken in the water races and natural streams in the Water Race Scheme as and when required to maintain the functioning of the network. Disturbed areas are limited to sections with significant weed growth and/or sedimentation.



Other mitigation measure proposed includes re-fuelling and undertaking other machinery maintenance activities outside the river bed, thereby preventing contaminants entering the river.

7.3 Avoid and Minimise Wastages Avoiding and minimising wastage in the water race network would ensure more efficient use of the water resource, which is particularly important during summer drought conditions. CDC and water race users have been making improvements to avoid and minimise wastage. These improvements include redirecting surplus overflow to rivers/streams, closing redundant water races where no longer required due to changing land uses, and responding to blockages in the water race. CDC proposes to continue these measures to further avoid and minimise wastage.

7.4 Self-monitoring and reporting CDC proposes to implement a much improved level of self-monitoring and reporting for the operation of the Carrington Water Race Scheme. Regular flow measurements from the Mangatarere Stream take is proposed. Staff gauges are proposed to be installed on the Mangatarere Stream take to enable the provision of data on the water abstraction. An alarm monitoring system is also proposed on the Mangatarere Stream take to alert the water race operator to any emergency or unusual event. This flow monitoring will ensure races are operated in an efficient manner.

A regime of monitoring discharge points will also be implemented. This monitoring would check both the quality and quantity of water being discharged. A monitoring programme is proposed to determine the extent of the effects of the water race discharges on the microbiological, physical and chemical quality of the river immediately downstream of the discharge points. The initial monitoring of the water quality will provide a monitoring framework against which to measure the need for, and success of, contaminant reduction initiatives. It will also establish better baseline data on water quality, against which any changes can be assessed. Details are contained in Appendix 4 of the indicative monitoring programme, including monitoring sites, regularity of sampling/testing and indicators to be monitored.

The records collected through this self-monitoring will be used as the basis for annual reports to GWRC. This data will provide a record of takes, flows and discharges and will be used to demonstrate consent compliance. Non-compliance with conditions of consent will also be documented and recorded in annual reports.

It is proposed annual reports would include results of race water quality sampling and detail measures/actions taken to improve efficiency of stock race water use. This annual reporting is evidence of Council’s ongoing commitment to improve the efficiency of water use in the water race network. The specific details of the self-monitoring and reporting would be confirmed in the proposed Code of Practice.

7.5 Improved Water Race Management To provide for improvement in water race management, a Code of Practice is proposed. This proposed Code of Practice would be prepared and implemented to address the effects of the water take and discharges. The Code of Practice would provide a process for consider the different and potentially conflicting values involved in decision making related to management of the water races.

The proposed Code of Practice would seek to improve the efficiency of water taken and used within the network, and improve the quality of the unused water discharged. Water race users, the water race operator and water race contractors would operate the network and undertaken works in accordance with the measures and procedures detailed in the Code of Practice. Code of Practice could include but not be limited to:

Network description

Maintenance procedures

Seasonal operations

Operations during droughts

Environmental Policy and resource consent requirements



Flow monitoring procedures/locations

Network Improvement Programme

Bylaws and enforcement procedures

Administration and reporting requirements

The Code of Practice would be submitted to GWRC a set time following the granting of these resource consents (e.g. twelve months). The Carrington Water Race Scheme would then be operated in accordance with the Code of Practice.

7.6 Minimise Surface Contaminant Discharges To minimise surface discharges from land use practices contaminating surface waterways, a number of initiatives have been considered. This issue arises where waterway edges are unprotected which allows stock to stand in and defecate into water, disturb the bed of, and cause erosion of banks by trampling. Cattle are the primary concern for this issue, with sheep to a significantly lesser degree. In addition, unprotected waterway edges can remove the ability for any filtration buffer of vegetation between fertiliser application and rain induced surface run off.

One approach is advocacy through the use and implementation of “best practice” guidance and other education tools to assist in better on farm management (e.g. GWRC’s Managing Stock Access to Waterways Guidelines). The Code of Practice noted above could be expanded to include information on how landowners can implement various practices to minimise surface contamination discharges.

Another approach is the installation of vegetated buffers along waterways. This approach has two fold benefits of improving aquatic habitat as well as buffering the waterway from surface run off. With the establishment of vegetated buffers, provision of crossings and stock access to water would need to be managed.

For the Taratahi plains, a 2-3m wide riparian buffer along both sides of waterways (both the water races and the “natural” streams) is considered appropriate (width based on the gradient of the land). The easiest and cheapest method to implement this riparian buffer would be a two wire fence. Consideration needs to be given to how to manage the long grass and weeds that would develop without fully planting the riparian area, noting a long grass sward is a very good surface flow filter. To manage this issue, the riparian zone along the waterways could be planted with Carex secta, flax, toi toi in the future (not exotic species or trees). This fencing and planting would protect most if not all of the waterway edges while still allowing for channel management currently practices (e.g. clearing of macrophyte via a long armed digger and bucket).

Further consideration is to be given to the most appropriate approach(s) for minimising surface contaminant discharges.

7.7 Other District Council Initiatives Some of the other measures proposed by CDC to improve the efficiency of water race use include compliance with current legislation and bylaws that govern use and operations of the water race network that already exist (e.g. Wairarapa South County Water Race Bylaw 1987). CDC will make greater use of powers available under this existing bylaw to control stock in races and pollution. In addition, CDC proposes to implement the requirements for measuring and reporting of water takes as outlined in the recently adopted national regulations.

Improved education and awareness programmes assist in identifying and implementing opportunities for improving the efficiency of the water race network. CDC proposes to increase promotion of these opportunities through holding field workshops with water race users to outline improved management requirements for the water race network. This education and awareness initiatives could be undertaken as a multi-agency approach with similar initiatives by other organisations, such as working with GWRC (and partners) promoting the Managing Stock Access to Waterways Guidelines. In addition, disseminating information to water race users would draw to their attention bylaws, the proposed Management Plan and reporting of issues with the water races.



7.8 Suggested Conditions of Consent Given the assessment of potential adverse environmental effects of the proposed activities on the environment, measures have been proposed to mitigate these effects. Below is a list of proposed mitigation measures that could form conditions of consent. It is anticipated that further conditions may result from consultation with stakeholders and discussions with Greater Wellington Regional Council officers.

Install and implement a water quantity monitoring programme, with a new water flow monitoring site with telemetry installed in the main take for the Carrington Water Race with the ability for electronic monitoring. Information for the main take is to be reported to GWRC on a quarterly basis including maximum, average and minimum daily abstraction rates.

Within 4 years, undertake a Water Use Audit investigating the use and efficiency of the Carrington water race. This audit should consider measures for any physical improvements to the water race to minimise the loss of water and improve the efficient use of water.

Water in the water race shall only be used for domestic, stock water, frost protection, fire fighting, irrigation and essential community purposes.

Within 12 months, prepare a Code of Practice setting out the land use practices and use of water from the water race. The Code of Practice would cover informing water race users about their obligations in respect of taking water and land use practices to minimise adverse effects on water quality, techniques and timetable for promoting the Code of Practice, timetable and requirements for requiring restrictions on stock access to water races (e.g. a minimum width of 2m as a riparian edge buffer), riparian revegetation with native grass species in fenced off area, and procedures to advise landowners that water is unfit for human consumption without prior treatment.

Minimum water quality standards for the receiving waters. These minimum water quality standards not causing any effects relating to the production of conspicuous oil or grease films, scums or foams, or floatable or suspended materials; change in the colour or visual clarity; emission or objectionable odour; rendering of freshwater unsuitable for consumption by farm animals; significant adverse effects on aquatic life, undesirable biological growths; or temperature changes by more than 3°C or to exceed 25°C.

Establish and implement a water quality monitoring programme with representative sample of sites (e.g. at the Mangatarere Stream intake location, points in the middle sections of the water races and the Mangatarere Stream, and at final discharge points to the Mangatarere Stream). Regular monitoring would be undertaken sampling for E.coli, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen and suspended solids. Results of this monitoring programme would be reported to GWRC on an annual basis.

Undertake a Water Quality Audit of the Carrington water race assessing the impact of the discharges on the receiving waterbodies based on water quality monitoring results. The Audit would identify and decide any appropriate mitigation measures to minimise adverse effects of land use practices on the quality of water in the races, including ways in which total nitrogen and total phosphorus concentrations and bacteriological contamination in the water race discharge can be decreased. The results of this Audit are proposed to be reported to GWRC within 3 years.

Various measures to manage the disturbance of the bed of the Mangatarere Stream. These measures include limiting the extent of the works, maintaining the alignment of the waterbodies, maintaining fish passage at all times, minimum release of suspended sediment, maintaining public access, restricted hours of operation, no refuelling, cleaning or storing of machinery in the riverbed, and avoiding disturbance to nesting birds (including but not limited to banded dotterels, black-fronted dotterels, black-billed gulls, pied stilts, and variable oystercatchers) during the months of September to December.

Limit the extent of works disturbing the river beds for the scheme consent to 0.5 kilometres of re-alignment works per year, one kilometres of cleaning per year, and 5 new and upgraded (replacement or larger diameter) culverts per year.


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 8-1 Consultation

8 ConsultationThis chapter provides a summary of the consultation undertaken for this application, including the key issues raised. As the water races are existing and operating, the consultation has focused on the issues associated with the maintenance and operational aspects of the water race network.

In 2000, an academic research project6 surveyed and interviewed a number of parties in relation to the Taratahi and Carrington water races. Information was collected through the use of mail surveys sent to all ratepayers on the Taratahi and Carrington Water Race Schemes, with a survey response rate of 50%. Also, semi-structured interviews were held with a number of parties who have an interest in the water races, and include tangata whenua, interest groups and landowners/water race users. The information collected through this research project provides useful information about the uses, values and opinions people have in relation to the water races. Below is the summary from this research project about the uses, values and opinions of the water races:

“The Carterton community believes that the water races are an efficient use of water, because they are value for money, a reliable system that delivers water to their properties, with continual and constant flows. The ancillary functions that the water races were identified to perform were: providing a farm drainage system for properties, acting as a water supply for fire-fighting and support natural wetlands and swamps which have had an influential impact on the flora and fauna in the district. These functions make use the races’ resource, their environment or their physical structure. These ancillary functions were considered by the survey respondents to be important in the operation of their properties and were just as important as the water supplied for stock and domestic consumption. These people believe that the water races have strong community values, and hold individual values such as amenity, ecological and conservation values. These people believe that the water races have over the years, become a part of the natural environment and support the natural ecosystem in the district. The stakeholders involved in these issues believe the water system and its natural environment are very important to both the rural community and the local environment.

The Carterton rural community believes also that there are several maintenance and management issues that require close attention, such as siltation, flooding and irregular flows that are frequently experienced on properties on both systems.

However, overall the water races are strongly valued by the rural community both as a system of supplying water, and as a provider for their natural environment.7”

The key stakeholder and interest groups identified for these consent applications include:

Ngati Kahungunu

Rangitane o Wairarapa

Department of Conservation

Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society Inc

Fish and Game

Fensham Reserve

Queen Elizabeth II National Trust

Wairarapa Canoe Club

Wairarapa District Health Board

6 Stronge, J.M. (2000). An Investigation into the Taratahi and Carrington Water Races, Carterton (Research for Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Natural Resource Management, Massey University) 7 Stronge, J.M. (2000). An Investigation into the Taratahi and Carrington Water Races, Carterton (Research for Bachelor of Applied Science (Honours) in Natural Resource Management, Massey University) – Page 71



Landowners and Water Race Users

Other Water Take Consent Holders

Below is a summary of consultation undertaken with these parties and issues raised.

8.1 Tangata Whenua Meetings and site visits of the water race network have been held with representatives of Ngati Kahungunu and Rangitane of Wairarapa. Matters raised by tangata whenua during these discussions were that Maori regard water as taonga and is considered to possess a life force or mauri, and to have a spirit or wairua in relation to the quality and use of water. Therefore, the taking, use and discharge of water has the potential to effect the mauri of these affected waterbodies. However, the representatives acknowledged that the Carrington Water Race Network has been in place a significant length of time and was a valued physical resource on the Taratahi Plains.

Tangata whenua requested an integrated catchment management be adopted for the Taratahi Plains so all water related issues (e.g. water takes, water uses, discharges, land use practices, etc) be assessed and determined in a holistic and inclusive way.

Other matters raised were maintaining minimum flows in both the main waterbodies and the water races to ensure they supported aquatic life, particularly eels and kokupu. In addition, minimising the degradation of water quality was an important issue with concern expressed about land use practices. Maintenance of the water races was also discussed, including mitigation measures for works associated with weed and sediment removal.

8.2 Department of Conservation The Department of Conservation (DOC) expressed interest in all aspects of the water race network, from the water takes, use of water, discharge of unused water and activities which disturb the beds of rivers. The primary matters of interest were to retain and enhance the aquatic values of natural river systems and the water race network, as well as maintaining and enhancing the terrestrial habitats which now rely on water supplied from the water races (e.g. Waingawa Wetlands and Allen/Lowes Bush). DOC recognised that the water race networks support indigenous flora and fauna on the Taratahi Plains, but modifications were required to land use practices to improve water quality.

8.3 Interest Groups 8.3.1 NZ Forest and Bird Protection Society Inc Forest and Bird raised three key matters in relation to the water race networks. Firstly, Forest and Bird recognise the contribution the water races make to the ecological values on the Taratahi Plains, as they provide habitat for indigenous fish and other aquatic species and support the remaining areas of indigenous vegetation and wetlands, in what is a highly modified environment. Secondly, the need to maintain minimum flows in the main rivers, smaller streams and water races to support aquatic life. Thirdly, the need to improve water quality in the water races and other waterbodies on the Taratahi Plains.

Forest and Bird consider improvements are required to land use practices to address water quality deterioration. For example, Forest and Bird identified stock access to the water races as a principal concern.

8.3.2 Fish and Game Fish and Game raised issues relating to effects on water quality, natural character, life supporting capacity and instream values, including the native fisheries and trout populations of the waterbodies associated with the water race network. In particular, Fish and Game identified the Waingawa River and Mangatarere Stream as providing important trout habitat. Fish and Game also sought monitoring of water quality within the water race network itself, and in the Mangatarere Stream both upstream and downstream of the take to identify areas where the water race system is having adverse effects on the



freshwater environments and to allow improvements to be made. As part of the mitigation package for the water race consent, Fish and Game has sought that stock access to waterbodies (natural and water race) be excluded.

8.3.3 Fensham Reserve Fensham Reserve is administered by the Forest and Bird Protection Society. The water race traverses the reserve and plays an important role in maintaining the wetlands within the reserve. Fensham Reserve custodians wish to ensure a continued water supply to this reserve to maintain water levels in the wetlands.

8.4 Wairarapa District Health Board The Wairarapa District Health Board (WDHB) expressed interest in the water races as the public body responsible for advocating and enforcing public health in the area. There particular interests relate to ensuring water quality does not pose a risk to public health, such as water bodies used for swimming and other recreational purposes meeting contact recreation water quality standards. Whilst e-coli is a primary indicator for determining the suitability of water for contact recreation purposes, the WDHB stated they had a broader interest in the overall water quality.

8.5 Landowners and Water Race Users Landowners on the Taratahi Plains have expressed a variety of views in relation to the water races. The majority of landowners place significant importance on the primary function of the water races in supplying stock water. In addition, many other landowners value the water races for the water they supply for other purposes, such as domestic use, amenity, fire fighting, limited irrigation, frost protection and ecological purposes.

The maintenance of a secure and reliable water supply is valued by landowners, especially during dry summer periods where alternative water supplies are scarce. Landowners highlighted issues with the need to maintain a reliable supply of water in the water races, with regular maintenance and management of the water races highlighted as a factor in achieving this reliable supply.

Landowners recognised water quality in the water races was an important issue, and generally landowners in the upper part of the network were satisfied with the quality of water while landowners in the lower part of the network highlight a degradation of water quality at times. Land use practices were recognised to have an influence on water quality.

Some landowners noted they were no longer reliant on the water races and had alternative water sources (primarily ground water). Some landowners had piped short sections of the water race where it was no longer needed or had re-aligned the water races to adjoining paddocks.

8.6 Other Water Take Consent Holders There are a number of parties with water takes from the same waterbody as the water races. These other water takes are for irrigation purposes. Most of these other water take consent holders are also landowners where the water races traverse their properties. The majority of these other water take consent holders recognise the overall community and environmental values of the water races, and that water from the water races supplements water in the natural streams. However, some other water take consent holders question the need and efficiency of the water race network.


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 9-1 Consideration of Alternatives

9 Consideration of Alternatives This section summarises the consideration of alternatives for the Carrington Water Race Scheme. This assessment focuses on alternatives to the water races themselves (i.e. the water take) and discharges.

Two previous studies have been undertaken in relative to the alternatives/options for the water races. These studies are:

Good Earth Matters Consulting Ltd (May 2000). Carterton District Water Races, Uses, Efficiency, and Value within the Community.

Good Earth Matters Consulting Ltd (undated). Carterton District Council Water Management Strategy – Issues and Options Discussion Paper.

While these two studies were prepared some time ago, the alternatives evaluated are still considered applicable. The assessment below draws information from these previous studies.

No assessment is detailed for the river bed works due to the conclusion that the effects of these works are no more than minor.

9.1 Water Take Alternatives CDC has considered alternatives to taking water from the Mangatarere Stream to supply the Carrington Water Race Scheme. It has also considered alternatives to the operation of the water races themselves, including piping (all or part) and a complete shut-down.

9.1.1 Water Take Regime CDC has considered alternative water take regimes to that proposed. However, CDC considers that any alternative water take regimes would likely make the existing Carrington Water Race Scheme unviable.

The proposed maximum water take levels are based on flow regime for the Mangatarere Stream, with a step-down approach. CDC considers this water take regime has operated effectively for a number of years, and appropriately provides for the reduction of water take during low flow conditions.

Alternative water take levels have been considered throughout the step-down range of amounts. However, any reduction in the water takes at the different levels would undermine the functional viability of the water races in all or part. The reduction in the amount of water taken would have consequential effects on the downstream values of the interconnected water race network, with reduced water in natural streams augmented by water from the water races, as well as the ecological and amenity values of the water races.

9.1.2 Groundwater Abstraction There are no alternative surface waters available with sufficient quantities of water needed to maintain the water race system. Therefore, groundwater abstraction has been considered as a potential alternative.

The Carrington Water Race Scheme crosses two Groundwater Zones identified in the Freshwater Regional Plan (i.e. Matarawa and Mangatarere). To maintain the adequate functioning of the water race, one single large take would be required at the top of the water race network (similar to the existing surface water take), and/or a series of individual groundwater takes along different branches of the water race network.

It is recognised there is increasing demand on groundwater resources in these Groundwater Zones for irrigation purposes, and that some areas are nearing full allocation. Therefore, the ability (technically and environmentally) to obtain groundwater in sufficient quantity and in the appropriate location(s) to supply the entire water race network is uncertain. In addition, it is recognised there are direct linkages between the Mangatarere Groundwater Zone and the Mangatarere Stream. Based on the information



currently available on the limitations on the groundwater resource in this area, further investigation of groundwater abstraction is not considered necessary at this time.

The Wairarapa Irrigation Trust is currently undertaking a scoping study on water enhancement opportunities on the Wairarapa plains. This study would determine whether opportunities exist for new water takes, storage and use in the Wairarapa. At this time, the investigations are in the early stages and feasibility has not yet been confirmed. Depending on the outcomes of these investigations, this scheme could supplement the current Carrington Water Race Scheme or provide an alternative.

9.1.3 Piped Water Races The piping of the water races has been raised on a number of previous occasions. This piping has been considered for the entire water race network or certain parts of the network, where it would replace the existing open water race channels.

A piped reticulated network could provide a continuous supply of water to a tank(s) located on each rateable property. Some key technical issues would need to be resolved, in particular the quality of the water to maintain the effective operation of a piped network. Without pre-treatment or regular cleaning of the pipes, a significant level of deposition of sediment and slimes could be anticipated within the pipe interiors. Treatment costs are expected to be significant, as all of the reticulated water would need to be treated.

The capital costs of replacing the existing open race system with a fully piped system are considered to be significant. In addition, the annual operational and maintenance costs for a fully piped system may also be significantly more compared to the existing open channel scheme.

Another possible option is groups of local landowners combining together and reticulating water from one or more water race branch(s). Reticulating from a main open race would minimise local losses through seepage and evapotranspiration and would avoid open races interfering with land use management. It is anticipated these localised piping networks would be funded and implemented by each group of landowners. These localised piped systems could be supplemented with water from surface or ground water sources. However, the availability of a suitable alternative surface or ground water resource may be limited.

9.1.4 Complete Closure Closing the complete Carrington Water Race Scheme has previously been flagged as a potential option. This closure would involve removing the intake structure from the Mangatarere Stream and filling in the open channels. Care would be required in determining whether the open water race channels are filled in network wide, as many of these channels also act as stormwater run-off channels. If some sections of the open channels were filled in, this could inadvertently result in flooding and/or ponding on upstream land.

Another consequence of the complete closure would be the reduced discharge of water to other areas and connected waterbodies on the Wairarapa plains. The ecological and amenity values of these connected waterbodies could be significantly degraded in the short-term due to a lack of water.

Consultation with water race users had indicated a number of them do not have a suitable or available alternative water supply. Therefore, some individual properties would suffer significant economic and social effects due to the lack of water for stock and other purposes.

9.2 Discharge Alternatives CDC has considered alternatives for managing the quality of the unused water discharged throughout the Carrington Water Race Scheme. These alternatives focus on the relationship of land use activities and the water races, as land use activities have a direct relationship with the quality of discharged water through non-point source pollution.

9.2.1 Stock Access to Water Races By their function, stock need access to water from the water race for drinking. However, this requirement does not mean stock need to drink the water directly from the water races themselves.



Limiting stock access (temporarily or permanently) would improve the quality of the water through avoiding stock defecating in the water races and pugging (releasing sediment) the water race and adjacent land. Limited stock access could be achieved through different types of fencing, such as a ‘hot wire’ or standard post and wire fence. This fencing could strength the entire length of water races through paddocks or for part of their length. Through part fencing the water races, this could enable stock to access for water races for drinking only, and restrict stock from standing in and entering the water races. If the water races were fully fenced (either temporarily or permanently) some form of water trough would need to be provided.

However, this fencing would impose costs on the landowner. These costs are the direct costs of erecting the fences themselves (e.g. materials and labour), as well as the potentially reduced area of productive land.

9.2.2 Fertiliser and Effluent Spreading With the majority of the productive land use on the Carterton plains is pastoral based (e.g. dairy and dry stock), with fertiliser and effluent spread to maintain pasture growth. Care is required to ensure these nutrient inputs do not directly or indirectly affect the quality of water, either through point or non-point source discharges. Good land use practices use a buffer distance for waterbodies for the spreading of fertiliser and effluent. The adoption of these practices would minimise the effects on the water quality in the water races. CDC could use different techniques for this buffer distance, such as a regulatory approach through the Water Race Bylaw or a non-regulatory approach through education and information programmes.

9.2.3 Maintenance Works The 4th Schedule to the Resource Management Act 1991 requires a consideration of alternatives where the adverse effects likely to arise from the activity may be significant. Given the conclusions reached above that the effects of the maintenance works are less than minor provided the mitigation measures are implemented, there is no need to consider alternatives for maintenance works. Notwithstanding this conclusion, alternatives were considered including the use of different machinery and non-machinery options (e.g. herbicide for weed control). However, all other alternatives considered were concluded to result in similar or greater environmental effects or not as cost-effective.

The nature and approach of the existing maintenance works has evolved overtime to minimise the adverse effects. CDC would continue to monitor and adapt the maintenance works programme and techniques to avoid, remedy or mitigate the environmental effects.

9.3 ConclusionCDC has considered a range of alternatives for the water race networks. Of all of the alternatives considered, none are considered to offer the same or similar benefits to the existing network for the costs. Most of the alternatives would incur significant financial costs which may not be affordable by the community. In addition, there would be environmental and social costs associated with a change to the supply of water via an alternative system.

In terms of the alternatives considered for discharges, there are a number of factors which influence the water quality in the water races and receiving waters. While improvements can be made in relation to the water races themselves, land use practices for all waterbodies in the catchment should also be considered. CDC considers the proposed mitigation measures achieve a balance between avoiding and mitigating the adverse effects while not imposing undue costs. CDC believes the benefits of implementing other alternatives considered would not currently outweigh the costs. Nevertheless, CDC intends to regularly monitor and reassess alternative options to improve the discharges as land use practices change.


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 10-1 Statutory Assessment

10 Statutory Assessment 10.1 Background Statutory Context Prior to the RMA, water takes were controlled by the Water and Soil Conservation Act 1967 (WSCA). When the WSCA was enacted in 1967, it authorised the “use of natural water, following proper notification, to the extent that such uses had lawfully been happening at any time during the period of 3 years that ended with September 1966”. It is understood the South Wairarapa County Council duly notified the Wairarapa Catchment Board before 1st April 1969 as required by Section 21(2) of the WSCA to enable the continued taking of water.

In October 1991, the RMA was enacted. The RMA is a comprehensive piece of environmental legislation, amalgamating and repealing a number of previous Acts, including the WSCA. Under Section 386 of the RMA, it provides that rights and authorities to take, use, or discharge into water, which were granted or deemed to be granted under the WSCA, become “water permits” or “discharge permits”. Under this section, these permits were deemed to be granted under the RMA with the same conditions.

For the Taratahi water race, at existing use right notice (Refer No. 362 WRC 690506) was issued on 31 March 1969 allowing a water take of up to 17 cusecs (481L/s). Under Section 386(3), existing authorities expire on 1 October 2001 (i.e. 10 years after commencement of the RMA). To continue under existing use rights, applications to renew the consents must be made six months prior to this date (by virtue of Section 124(a) RMA).

For the Carrington water race, a resource consent (water permit) was granted on 3rd February 1993 to continue to abstract up to 113L/s from the Mangatarere Stream (Permit No. WAR 92/105). This water permit was granted for a term of 9 years, and therefore expired on 3rd February 2002.

Prior to the expiry of theses consents on 1 October 2001 and 1 April 2001 respectively, CDC originally lodged the applications to renew these permits. Therefore, the operation of the water race network may continue until Greater Wellington Regional Council makes a decision, and any appeals have been determined.

10.2 Resource Management Act 199110.2.1 Part II – Purpose and Principles The purpose and principles of the RMA are set out in Part II of the Act. Part II is a relevant consideration in assessing the resource consents applications.

Section 5 sets out that the purpose of the RMA is to promote the sustainable management of natural and physical resources. The term ‘sustainable management’ is explained to mean:

Managing the use, development, and protection of natural and physical resources in a way, or at a rate, which enables people and communities to provide for their social, economic, and cultural well being and for their health and safety while- a) Sustaining the potential of natural and physical resources (excluding minerals) to meet the

reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations; and b) Safeguarding the life supporting capacity of air, water, soil, and ecosystems; and c) Avoiding, remedying, or mitigating any adverse effects of activities on the environment.

The ongoing operation of the Carrington water race would promote sustainable management in a way that will–

Sustain the potential of natural and physical resources for current and future generations, particularly in terms of providing an affordable stock water supply for the rural area;

Provides for the use and development of primary production activities which are a major contributor to the economic and social wellbeing of the Carterton district;



Provides for the efficient use of an existing physical resource (i.e. the existing water races) which is a valued community asset;

Maintain the life-supporting capacity of the water races through maintaining the water flows based on historical levels;

Avoid, remedy and mitigate the adverse effects through the ongoing operation of the water race as it would maintain the existing environmental conditions which have evolved over the life of the water races;

Section 6 of the RMA outlines matters of national importance that need to be recognised and provided for by the consent authority in terms of the proposed water takes, discharges and associated works. The continued operation of the Carrington water race recognises and provides for five key matters of national importance, namely:

The preservation of the natural character of wetlands, rivers and their margins by maintaining the existing amount of water take and discharges (Section 6(a));

The protection of areas of significant indigenous vegetation and significant habitats of indigenous fauna by providing supplementary water to these areas (Section 6(c));

The maintenance and enhancement of public access to rivers is not affected by these works (Section 6(d)); and

The relationship that tangata whenua have with their ancestral lands, water, sites, waahi tapu, and other taonga through consultation with tangata whenua (Section 6(e)).

Section 7 outlines other matters to which particular regard should be had by the consent authority. Particular regard has been given to the following relevant other matters:

The concept of Kaitiakitanga, through consultation with tangata whenua for this project (Section 7(a));

The proposal is considered to be an efficient use and development of physical resources, particularly utilising existing water races for continued supply of stock water while providing for improved monitoring regime to more efficiently record and respond to the environmental conditions (Section 7(b));

The proposal provides for the maintenance and enhancement of amenity values, as the water races themselves and the natural river systems have their own amenity values (Section 7(c));

The maintenance of the existing level of water in the water races would not adversely affect the intrinsic values of ecosystems, as these ecosystems rely on this water (Section 7(d));

The quality of the environment would be maintained by the retaining the current level of water take, as a water races contribute in a number of positive ways to the quality of the existing environment (e.g. amenity and natural areas) (Section 7(f)); and

The protection of the habitat of trout is achieved through maintaining the water levels in the water races at existing levels (Section 7(h)).

Section 8 requires the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) to be taken into account when considering applications for resource consent. These principles have been incorporated into the consultation in preparing these applications. The project endeavours to recognise and provide for the relationship of Maori to their ancestral lands and water, as well as maintaining and enhancing the quality of the environment by maintaining the level of water in the water races at historical levels in which the environment has adapted to.

Any matters which are considered relevant in terms of these sections are then assessed in making an overall judgement as to whether a proposal promotes or is contrary to section 5.

Overall, it is considered that the proposed water takes, discharges and associated works are consistent with Part II of the RMA.



10.3 Relevant Planning Instruments As outlined in Section 4 of this AEE, CDC is proposing to continue to take water from the Mangatarere Stream to maintain the operation of the Carrington water race network. In addition, a number of related consents are sought to provide for the maintenance of the water race network, including downstream water takes, discharges and works in river beds. The consents being sought are summarised in Section 4 of the AEE.

The following sections provide an evaluation of the proposed works in relation to the following statutory documents:

Operative Wellington Regional Policy Statement 1995

Proposed Wellington Regional Policy Statement 2009

Wellington Regional Freshwater Plan

Wellington Regional Land Plan

Proposed National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management

Resource Management (Measurement and Reporting of Water takes) Regulations 2010

Proposed National Environmental Standard for Ecological Flows and Water Levels

In addition, the Wairarapa South County Race Bylaw is considered a relevant other matter.

10.4 Operative Wellington Regional Policy StatementThe Operative Wellington Regional Policy Statement (RPS) provides an overview of resource management issues in the Wellington Region. It provides policies and a range of methods to achieve integrated management of natural and physical resources across resources, jurisdictional boundaries and agency functions, and guides the development of regional and district plans and the consideration of resource consents and notices of requirement.

Relevant provisions of the RPS are as follows:

Chapter 5: Freshwater 5.3 Objectives Objective 1 The quantity of fresh water meets the range of uses and values for which it is required, safeguards its life supporting capacity, and has the potential to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations.

Objective 2 The quality of fresh water meets the range of uses and values for which it is required, safeguards its life supporting capacity, and has the potential to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations.

Objective 3 Freshwater resources of significance or of high value for cultural, spiritual, scenic, ecosystem, natural, recreational, or other amenity reasons are protected or enhanced.

5.4 Policies Policy 1 To manage the quantity of fresh water so that it is available for a range of uses and values, and:

(1) Its life supporting capacity is safeguarded; and (2) Its potential to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations is sustained; and, (3) For surface water, any adverse effects on aquatic ecosystems are avoided, remedied, or mitigated.

Policy 2 To promote the conservation and efficient use of fresh water.

Policy 4 To maintain and protect the quality of fresh water so that it is available for a range of uses and values, and:

(1) Its life supporting capacity is safeguarded; and



(2) Its potential to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations is sustained; and (3) For surface water, any adverse effects on aquatic and riparian ecosystems are avoided, remedied, or mitigated.

Policy 5 To improve water quality and restore contaminated water to a standard which is appropriate for its desired uses and natural values.

Policy 6 To ensure that the effects of contaminants contained in point source discharges on the quality of fresh water and aquatic ecosystems are avoided, remedied, or mitigated and allowing for reasonable mixing:

(1) Do not render any fresh water unsuitable for any purpose specified in any regional plan for that water; (2) Do not prevent the receiving fresh water from meeting any standards established in any regional plan for that water; (3) Do not render any water in the coastal marine area unsuitable for any purpose specified in a regional coastal plan for the Wellington Region.

Policy 7 To avoid, remedy, or mitigate adverse effects on water quality and aquatic ecosystems of contaminants contained in non-point source discharges.

Policy 9 To avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of modifications to the beds of water bodies on water quality, groundwater, aquatic ecosystems, and the amenity and cultural values of water.

Policy 11 To ensure that, in respect of all water bodies not covered by Fresh Water Policy 10, any adverse effects on amenity values or the intrinsic values of ecosystems which may result from any use and development, and on any natural or near natural areas, are avoided, remedied, or mitigated.

Policy 12 To avoid, remedy, or mitigate any adverse effects of any new or existing use and development where these effects impact on the natural character of wetlands, lakes, rivers, and other water bodies, and their margins.

Policy 13 To recognise the cultural relationship of the tangata whenua with rivers, lakes, wetlands, and other water bodies, and to promote the management of fresh water in ways that take into account iwi values and beliefs. In addition, to promote the protection and management of sites of significance to iwi within the beds of water bodies.

The proposed water takes, discharges and river bed works are a continuation of existing resource utilisation and activities which have taken place for a number of years to supply the Carrington Water Race Scheme. The Scheme provides valuable water to meet the current and future needs of activities on the Carterton plains, particularly the water requirements of stock. The proposed flow regime for the water take, management of land use practice for discharge, and the proposed river bed works would avoid, remedy or mitigate the effects on the environment.

Overall, the consents sought are considered consistent with the objectives and policies of the Regional Policy Statement. The consents would provide for the ongoing functioning and water supply provided by the Carrington Water Race Scheme.

10.5 Proposed Wellington Regional Policy StatementThe Proposed Wellington Regional Policy Statement (Proposed RPS) was publicly notified early in 2009. Hearings were held in November 2009 and decisions on submissions were released in May 2010. The ‘decisions’ version of the Proposed RPS has been assessed below, as it is relevant consideration under Section 104 of the Act. However, it is noted some of the provisions of the Proposed RPS have been appealed, therefore, weight needs to be given to both the Operative RPS and Proposed RPS.

Relevant provisions of the Proposed RPS are as follows:



Section 3.4 Fresh water (including public access) Objective 12 The quantity and quality of fresh water:

(a) meet the range of uses and values for which water is required; (b) safeguard the life-supporting capacity of water bodies; and (c) meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations.

Policy 39: Maintaining and enhancing aquatic ecosystem health – consideration When considering an application for a resource consent, notice of requirement, or a change, variation or review of a regional or district plan, particular regard shall be given to:

(a) requiring, as a minimum, that water quality, flows and water levels of surface water bodies are managed for the purpose of maintaining or enhancing aquatic ecosystem health; (b) requiring, as a minimum, water quality in the coastal marine area to be managed for the purpose of maintaining or enhancing aquatic ecosystems health; and (c) managing water bodies and the water quality of coastal water for other purposes identified in regional plans.

Policy 40: Minimising the effects of earthworks and vegetation disturbance – consideration When considering an application for a resource consent, notice of requirement, variation or review of a regional or district plan, particular regard shall be given to controlling earthworks and vegetation disturbance to minimise:

(a) erosion; and (b) silt and sediment runoff into water, or onto or into land that may enter water, so that healthy aquatic ecosystems are sustained.

Objective 13 The region’s rivers, lakes and wetlands support healthy functioning ecosystems

Policy 42: Protecting aquatic ecological function of water bodies – consideration When considering an application for a resource consent, notice of requirement, or a change, variation or review of a district or regional plan, particular regard shall be given to:

(a) maintaining or enhancing the functioning of ecosystems in the water body; (b) maintaining or enhancing the ecological functions of riparian margins; (c) minimising the effect of the proposal on groundwater recharge areas that are connected to surface water bodies; (d) maintaining or enhancing the amenity and recreational values of rivers and lakes, including significant amenity and recreational values of rivers and lakes listed in Table 15 of Appendix 1; (e) protecting the significant indigenous ecosystems and habitats with significant indigenous biodiversity values of rivers and lakes, including rivers and lakes listed in Table 16 of Appendix 1;(f) retaining natural flow regimes; (g) maintaining fish passage; (h) protecting and reinstating riparian habitat, in particular riparian habitat that is important for fish spawning; (i) discouraging stock access to rivers lakes and wetlands; and (j) preventing the removal or destruction of indigenous wetland plants in wetlands.

Objective 14 Water is used efficiently and is not wasted.

Policy 43: Managing water takes to ensure efficient use – consideration When considering an application for a resource consent to take water, particular regard shall be given to:

(a) whether the applicant has demonstrated that the volume of water sought is reasonable and justifiable for the intended use, including consideration of soil and crop type when water is taken for irrigation purposes; (b) requiring the consent holder to measure and report the actual amount of water taken; and



(c) requiring the consent holder to adopt water conservation and demand management measures and demonstrate how water will be used efficiently.

As assessed above for the Operative RPS, the proposed water takes, discharges and river bed works are a continuation of existing resource utilisation and activities which have taken place for a number of years to supply the Carrington Water Race Scheme. The Scheme provides valuable water to meet the current and future needs of activities on the Carterton plains, particularly the water requirements of stock. The proposed flow regime for the water take, management of land use practice for discharge, and the proposed river bed works would avoid, remedy or mitigate the effects on the environment.

In particular, the aquatic ecosystem health of the Mangatarere Stream and other waterbodies connected to the Carrington Water Race Scheme (e.g. Enaki Stream) would be maintained through the proposed water take regime. The health of ecosystems on the Carterton plains is maintained through the supply of water in the water races. The proposed river beds works are considered to minimise the adverse effects on the ecological, amenity and recreational values of the affected waterbodies.

Overall, the consents sought are considered consistent with the objectives and policies of the Proposed Regional Policy Statement. The consents would provide for the ongoing functioning and water supply provided by the Carrington Water Race Scheme.

10.6 Regional Freshwater Plan for the Wellington Region The Regional Freshwater Plan for the Wellington Region provides direction regarding the policy framework and rules relating to management of freshwater resources in the Wellington region. Below are the objectives and policies in the Regional Plan considered relevant to this proposal.

4.1 General Objectives The relationship of tangata whenua with fresh water 4.1.1 The relationship of tangata whenua and their culture and traditions with fresh water, and with ancestral sites, waahi tapu and other taonga within the beds of rivers and lakes, is recognised and provided for.

4.1.2 The mauri of water bodies and river and lake beds is protected.

4.1.3 The principles of the Treaty of Waitangi are taken into account in the management of the Region's water bodies and river and lake beds.

Natural values 4.1.4 The natural character of wetlands, and lakes and rivers and their margins, is preserved and protected from inappropriate subdivision, use and development.

4.1.5 The life-supporting capacity of water and aquatic ecosystems is safeguarded from the adverse effects of any subdivision, use and development.

4.1.6 Significant indigenous aquatic vegetation and significant habitats of fresh water fauna in water bodies are protected.

Amenity values and access 4.1.7 The amenity and recreational values of wetlands, lakes, and rivers are maintained and, where appropriate, enhanced.

Use and development 4.1.11 People and communities are able to use and develop freshwater resources to provide for their social, economic, and cultural well being and for their health and safety.

4.1.12 The adverse effects of the use and development of freshwater resources are avoided, remedied, or mitigated.

4.1.13 Activities that enhance freshwater resources are promoted.



4.1.17 Conditions placed on resource consents are used as a means of avoiding, remedying or mitigating adverse effects.

These objectives highlight the range of issues that need to be considered when making decisions about the management of freshwater resources. As the Carrington Water Race Scheme is an existing physical resource, it provides for the social and economic wellbeing and health and safety for properties serviced. The consents sought effectively seek to maintain the existing values of the water races and connected waterbodies that have adapted to the historical water race management regime. Notwithstanding this, opportunities for improving the water quality have been identified, as well as implementing a better monitoring regime. For these reasons, it is considered the consents sought are not inconsistent with the above objectives.

4.2 General Policies The relationship of tangata whenua with freshwater 4.2.1 To manage sites of special value to the tangata whenua in water bodies and river and lake beds so that the cultural values of those sites are not adversely affected.

4.2.2 To encourage applicants to consult directly with affected tangata whenua when making an application for a resource consent which is for an activity within, upstream, or immediately downstream of any identified site of special value to the tangata whenua. As part of this consultation the applicant should determine:

(1) Whether granting the resource consent could have any adverse effects on the special values of the site. (2) How any potential adverse effects that might result from the activity could be avoided or remedied.

4.2.4 To avoid, remedy, or mitigate the adverse effects of the use and development of water bodies and river and lake beds on the habitats of species traditionally harvested by the tangata whenua.

4.2.5 To have regard to the values and customary knowledge of the tangata whenua, where these have been identified by the tangata whenua, when assessing resource consent applications for the use and development of water bodies and river and lake beds.

The cultural and spiritual values of tangata whenua and their relationship with water has been recognised and provided for in these consent applications. Through consultation with tangata whenua, sites, areas and resources of significance to tangata whenua have been identified and taken into account in determining the mitigation and monitoring measures. Of particular importance to tangata whenua is the impact of the discharges on water quality and effects on food sources. As discussed in Section 6 of this AEE, the effects of the discharges are proposed to be minimised through improved land use practices and maintenance works on the water races. It is considered these consents would not be inconsistent with the above policies for tangata whenua and cultural values.

Natural values 4.2.9 To have regard to the following characteristics of wetlands, and lakes and rivers and their margins, when considering the protection of their natural character from the adverse effects of subdivision, use, and development:

• ecosystems, habitats and species; and • water quality; and • the natural flow characteristics and hydraulic processes (such as sediment transport) of

rivers or the pattern and range of water level fluctuations that occur naturally in wetlands or lakes; and

• the topography and physical composition of river or lake beds and the course of the river.

4.2.10 To avoid adverse effects on wetlands, and lakes and rivers and their margins, identified in Appendix 2 (Parts A and B), when considering the protection of their natural character from the adverse effects of subdivision, use, and development.



4.2.11 To avoid, remedy or mitigate the adverse effects of the use and development of water bodies and river and lake beds on aquatic habitats and freshwater ecosystems by having regard to:

• the maintenance of biological and physical processes; and • the maintenance of habitat for feeding, breeding and sheltering aquatic life; and • the maintenance of the diversity of aquatic life; and • the maintenance of the ability of fish to disperse and migrate; and • the times which will least affect feeding, spawning, dispersal or migratory patterns of fish

and other aquatic species; and • the prevention of irreversible adverse effects.

4.2.13 To protect the nationally threatened indigenous aquatic plants identified in Part B of Appendix 3 and to protect nationally threatened freshwater fauna, in the water bodies identified in Part A of Appendix 3 by:

• managing water quality so that Polices 5.2.1 to 5.2.7, whichever is (are) relevant, is (are) satisfied; and

• managing the flows and levels of water bodies so that Policies 6.2.1, 6.2.2, 6.2.12, and 6.2.13, whichever is (are) relevant, is (are) satisfied; and

• maintaining migratory and dispersal pathways for fish; and • avoiding adverse affects on habitats that are important to the life cycle and survival

(including spawning areas) of fish and birds; and • promoting landowner and user knowledge of nationally threatened species, the sites

where they are present, and how they can be protected.

4.2.14 To avoid, remedy or mitigate any adverse effects on important trout habitat in the Region, identified in Appendix 4, by:

• managing water quality so that Policy 5.2.3 is satisfied; and • managing the flows and levels of water bodies so that Policies 6.2.1, 6.2.2, 6.2.12, and

6.2.13, whichever is (are) relevant, is (are) satisfied; and • having particular regard to offsetting adverse effects on trout habitat; and • having particular regard to maintaining the same, or similar, river bed configuration in the

rivers identified.

As described in Sections 3 and 6 of the AEE, a number of the waterbodies associated with the Carrington Water Race Scheme are recognised for their natural values. These values include their natural character, habitat for nationally threatened freshwater fauna, and as important trout habitat.

The proposed water take from the Mangatarere Stream seeks to maintain the historical level of water take. Given the period of time that these water takes (including discharges augmenting Enaki Stream), the natural values of these waterbodies are in part reflect of these long-established environmental conditions. Maintaining the water takes at these current and historical levels is considered to be consistent with the above policies to protect the natural values of the identified waterbodies.

For the proposed discharges of unused water, mitigation measures are proposed to improve water quality over time. As the water races also act as de facto drainage channels, the water quality in the water races in influenced by land use activities in the catchment. Therefore, the mitigation measures proposed directly relate to activities associated with the water races themselves, rather than wider catchment wide activities. The mitigation measures for the water race activities are considered to mitigate their effects on water quality. For these reasons, it is considered the proposal is not inconsistent with the above policies.

Amenity values and access 4.2.15 To avoid, remedy, and mitigate any adverse effects of use and development on the water bodies identified in Appendix 5 as regionally important for their amenity and recreational values, by:

• managing water quality so that Policy 5.2.4 is satisfied; and • managing the flows and levels of water bodies so that Policies 6.2.1, 6.2.2, 6.2.12, and

6.2.13, whichever is (are) relevant, is (are) satisfied; and



• having particular regard to offsetting adverse effects on amenity and recreational values; and

• having particular regard to the timing of use and development so that, where practicable, adverse affects on amenity values and recreational use are minimised.

As described in Sections 4 and 6 of the AEE, the Mangatarere Stream and Waiohine River are identified for their amenity and recreational values. By maintaining the quantity of water in the water races is considered to maintain the amenity values of the water race themselves, which is valued by many in the community.

The water take from the Mangatarere Stream is not considered to degrade the amenity and recreational values of this waterbody. As discussed in Sections 6 and 7, mitigation measures are proposed to minimise the adverse effects on the amenity values and recreational use of the Mangatarere Stream. For these reasons, it is considered the proposal is not inconsistent with the above policy.

Use and development 4.2.23 To have regard to the benefits arising from any proposal for the use and development of a water body when assessing the proposal.

4.2.24 To have regard to the effects on other established activities when considering any proposal for the use and development of water bodies.

4.2.25 To encourage users of fresh water to adopt an ethic of guardianship for future generations.

4.2.26 To adopt a precautionary approach to the management of freshwater in the Wellington Region where information is incomplete or limited.

4.2.27 To encourage the restoration or rehabilitation of freshwater resources in the Region, including the establishment of wetlands, where appropriate.

4.2.29 To recognise the needs of existing lawful users of fresh water by: • allowing existing users to upgrade progressively their environmental performance where

improvements are needed to meet the provisions of the Plan; and/or • giving priority to existing users over new users at locations where the demand for the use

of water is greater that the resource can sustain.

4.2.32 To encourage the development of industry “Codes of Practice” and “Guidelines”.

4.2.33 To provide for those activities which have no more than minor adverse effects on the environment. As a guide, the adverse effects of activities are likely to be no more than minor if the following criteria are met:

(1) the activity does not require exclusive use of the river or lake bed, and does not preclude lawful public access to, and use of, the river or lake bed (subject to the circumstances listed in Policy 4.2.16 that make restrictions necessary); and (2) any adverse effects on plants, animals or their habitats are confined to a small area or are temporary, and the area will naturally re-establish habitat values comparable with those prevailing before commencement of the activity; and (3) there are no significant or prolonged decreases in water quality; and (4) there are no off-site adverse effects; and (5) river bank or lake shoreline stability is not adversely affected; and (6) there are no adverse effects on mahinga kai, waahi tapu, or any other sites of special value to tangata whenua; and (7) there are no adverse effects on the natural character of wetlands, and lakes and river and their margins.

4.2.34 To avoid, remedy, or mitigate adverse effects which are associated with, or are a consequence of, an activity by placing conditions on resource consents, particularly where adverse effects are likely to occur on the following:

• characteristics of spiritual, historical or cultural significance to tangata whenua; or • natural values; or



• amenity and recreational values; or • lawful public access.

4.2.35 To have regard to the following matters when determining the nature and extent of any conditions to be placed on a resource consent:

• the significance of the adverse effects arising as a consequence of, or in association with, the proposed activity; and

• the extent to which the proposed activity contributes to the adverse effects; and • the extent to which the adverse effects of the proposed activity can be, and have been,

dealt with by other means; and • any proposals by the applicant to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects, and any

agreements reached at pre-hearing meetings; and • the monitoring proposed to be carried out by the applicant; and • the extent to which the community as a whole benefits from the proposed activity and

from any proposed conditions on a consent; and • the financial cost of complying with any conditions on a consent; and • the extent to which a condition placed on a consent will avoid, remedy or mitigate any

adverse effects.

4.2.36 To avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects, conditions on a resource consent may relate to all or any of the following:

• project design and implementation, choice of materials, site improvements; or • habitat restoration, rehabilitation, creation and improvement; or • restocking and replanting of fauna or flora (with respect to replanting, preference will be

given to the use of indigenous species, with a further preference for the use of local genetic stock); or

• works and services relating to the improvement, provisions, reinstatement, protection, restoration or enhancement of the matters listed in Policy 4.2.35; or

• the relationship between flow in a river and water quality (e.g. conditions attached to discharge permits can be flow related in respect of compliance with water quality guidelines).

The above policies recognise the benefits and use of the water races need to be considered in assessing these resource consent applications. The Carrington Water Race Scheme is an existing physical resource which provides economic, social and environmental benefits for the district. The policies provide for existing lawful users of freshwater to have priority of new users, as well as existing users making incremental improvements to environmental performance. As described in Sections 4, 6 and 7 of the AEE, a number of improvements are proposed to the Carrington Water Race Scheme which would improve its environmental performance. For these reasons, it is considered the proposal is not inconsistent with the above policies.

5.1 Water Quality and Discharges to Fresh Water Objectives 5.1.1 The quality of fresh water meets the range of uses and values for which it is required while the life supporting capacity of water and aquatic ecosystems is safeguarded.

5.1.2 The quality of fresh water has the potential to meet the reasonably foreseeable needs of future generations.

5.1.3 The quality of water is, as far as practicable, consistent with the values of the tangata whenua.

5.2 Water Quality and Discharges to Fresh Water Policies Receiving Water Quality 5.2.1 To manage water quality in its natural state in those water bodies identified in Part A of Appendix 2 (subject to Policy 5.2.10).



5.2.3 To manage water quality for trout fishery and fish spawning purposes in those rivers, or parts of rivers, identified in Appendix 4 (subject to Policy 5.2.10).

5.2.4 To manage water quality for contact recreation purposes in those water bodies identified in Appendix 5 (subject to Policy 5.2.10), excluding Lake Waitawa (managed according to Policy 5.2.6) and Lake Wairarapa (managed according to Policies 5.2.2 and 5.2.6)

5.2.5 To manage water quality for water supply purposes in those water bodies, or parts of water bodies, identified in Appendix 6 (subject to Policy 5.2.10).

5.2.6 Except for rivers and streams identified in Appendix 7, to manage the water quality of all surface water bodies in the Region for aquatic ecosystem purposes (subject to Policy 5.2.10).

5.2.9 To manage the quality of the fresh water of the rivers, or parts of rivers, identified in Appendix 7 so that water quality is enhanced to satisfy the purposes identified in the Appendix (subject to Policy 5.2.10).

5.2.10 To allow the discharge of contaminants to fresh water which do not satisfy Policies 5.2.1 to 5.2. 9, whichever is (are) relevant, only where:

(1) the discharge is of a temporary nature; or (2) the discharge is associated with necessary maintenance works; or (3) exceptional circumstances justifying the granting of a permit; or (4) the discharge:

• was present at the time the Plan was notified; and • is not likely to cause a decrease in the existing quality of water at that site and the

person responsible for the discharge has defined a programme of work for upgrading the discharge within a specified timeframe; or

(5) that in any event, it is consistent with the purpose of the Act to allow the discharge.

Mixing Zones 5.2.11 To ensure that any zones allowed on a discharge permit for reasonable mixing of contaminants or water with the receiving water are determined by having regard to:

• the purpose for which the receiving water is being managed, and any effects of the discharge on that management purpose; and

• any tangata whenua values that may be affected; and • the volume of water or concentration of contaminants being discharged, and the area of

receiving water that could potentially be affected; and • the physical, hydraulic and hydrological characteristics of the receiving water.

Non-point Source Discharges 5.2.15 To promote the reduction of the levels of contaminants entering water bodies, including groundwater, from non-point sources in the Wellington Region, particularly in water bodies where non-point sources of contamination contribute to making water quality unsuitable for the purposes that the water body is to be managed for in Policies 5.2.1 to 5.2.7.

5.2.16 To minimise the adverse effects of accidental spills on water quality.

As described in Section 3 of the AEE, the Carrington Water Race Scheme primarily affects the Mangatarere Stream which is used and valued for a number of different purposes, including its aquatic ecosystem and recreational use. These objectives and policies seek to manage water quality in this waterbody for its different purposes and values. The proposed incremental improvement in the land use practices for the water races would mitigate the effects on water quality. However, the impacts on water quality in the water races is also influenced by a range of other activities undertaken in the catchment (non-point source discharges), with the water races acting as surface water run-off channels. Therefore, the water quality in the water races is not directly attributable to water race activities. For these reasons, it is considered the consents sought are not inconsistent with the above objectives and policies.



6.1 Water Quantity and the Taking, Use, Damming or Diversion of Fresh Water Objectives 6.1.1 People and communities are able to take, use, dam, or divert surface water, and take and use groundwater, while ensuring that the flows in rivers, and water levels in lakes and wetlands, are sufficient to maintain the natural and amenity values of water bodies.

6.1.2 People and communities are able to take and use groundwater while ensuring that the construction of bores and abstractions do not:

• exceed the safe yields of aquifers; or • adversely affect the yields of nearby bores through interference, inefficient borehole

construction, or excessive drawdown; or • adversely affect water quality.

6.1.3 Water abstracted from rivers, streams, lakes and aquifers is used efficiently and water conservation is promoted.

6.1.4 The flows in rivers and water levels in lakes and wetlands are, as far as practicable, consistent with the values of the tangata whenua.

6.2 Water Quantity and the Taking, Use, Damming or Diversion of Fresh Water Policies

Minimum Flows, Safe Yields, and Water Allocation 6.2.1 To manage the allocation of water and flows in the parts of the rivers and streams shown in column 1 of Table 6.1 by:

(1) recognising the flows shown in column 3 as minimum flows that should be achieved in low flow conditions; and (2) authorising, through resource consents, the taking of no more than the core allocation shown in column 4 (except where the requirements for supplementary allocation in clause (3) of this policy are satisfied); and (3) authorising, through resource consents, the taking of a supplementary allocation when the flow exceeds that shown in column 5 (which is additional to the core allocation provided for in clause (2) of this policy); and (4) authorising, through resource consents, the taking of no more than the first and second stepdown allocations shown in columns 6 and 7, respectively, when the river or stream is below the stepdown flows, also shown in columns 6 and 7 respectively.

Table 6.1 Minimum Flows and Water Allocation for Some Rivers in the Wellington Region Column 1 Column 2 Column 3

Policy 6.2.1(1)

Column 4 Policy 6.2.1(2)




Part of the river/streamwithin which allocations in columns 4, 5 6 & 7 apply

Thelocation of recorders whereflows in columns 3, 5, 6 & 7 are measured

MinimumFlow (litres/second)

Core Allocation (litres/second)

Flow required forsupplementary allocation(litres/second)

Flow below which first stepdownallocation takes effect (litres/second)

Firststepdownallocation (litres/second)

Flowbelowwhichsecondstepdownallocationtakeseffect(litres/second)

Second stepdownallocation (litres/second)

Mangatarere Stream fromtheheadwatersto the BelvedereRoad bridge, including any tributaries

The Gorge 240 180 1200** 330 90 240 0***



** the flow required for supplementary allocation for the Mangatarere Stream refers to the flow measured at the Mangatarere Gorge Environmental monitoring site. *** The second stepdown allocation of “0” for the Mangatarere River and its tributaries from the headwaters to the Belvedere Rd bridge will not necessarily apply to the taking of water for the Carrington water race for people’s reasonable domestic needs and the reasonable needs of people’s animals for drinking water. The taking of water for these purposes will be considered when a resource consent application is made for the Carrington water race.

6.2.2 To manage the flows in rivers and streams not identified in Policy 6.2.1 by having regard to: • the significance of natural, amenity, and tangata whenua values; and • the scale/magnitude of any adverse effects on natural, amenity and tangata whenua

values; and • the reversibility of any adverse effects on natural, amenity and tangata whenua values.

6.2.5 To give priority over other users to the abstraction of water for the public health water needs of people including:

• the use of water by any statutory authority which has a duty for public water supply under any Act of Parliament or regulation; or

• the use of water for reticulation into a public water supply network; when:

• water takes exceed the core allocation shown in Table 6.1; or • water takes exceed the safe yields shown in Tables 6.2, 6.3, 6.4, and 6.5; or • a water shortage direction is issued under section 329 of the Act.

6.2.7 To encourage users to take groundwater as an alternative to surface water resources where:

• the groundwater is of sufficient quality and quantity for the prospective use; and • there are no significant environmental, technical, or financial constraints associated with

abstracting groundwater.

6.2.9 Where appropriate, to encourage and support “user committees” to assist in managing the taking and use of fresh water.

Water Races 6.2.11 To have due regard to the relevant provisions of this Plan, such as Policies 6.2.1 to 6.2.3, when considering water permits for the take of water for water races.

The above objectives and policies set out the policy framework for managing the taking and use of water for the Carrington Water Race Scheme. The policies include minimum flows and water allocation levels to maintain the natural and amenity values of the waterbodies, as well as to provide for the taking and use of water by people and communities. Water races are specifically identified in the policy framework as a particular type of community infrastructure that takes water.

As described in Sections 3 and 6 of the AEE, water has been taken and used for the Carrington Water Race Scheme for a number of years. This water has provided for the needs of people and communities for this period of time, and the natural and amenity values of the waterbodies has adapted to this take. It is considered the consents sought to continue to maintain the water take at current levels would is generally in line with the policies above. The amount of take would sustain the historical levels of water in the Carrington Water Race Scheme, which would maintain the economic, natural and amenity values of the Scheme. For these reasons, it is considered the proposal is not inconsistent with the above objectives and policies.

7.1 Use of the Beds of Rivers and Lakes and Development on the Floodplain Objectives 7.1.1 Appropriate uses of the beds of rivers and lakes are allowed while avoiding, remedying, or mitigating any adverse effects. 7.1.2 The risk of flooding or erosion is not increased by locating structures or carrying out activities in the beds of rivers and lakes or on the floodplain. 7.1.3 Activities do not cause damage to, or destruction of, existing lawful flood mitigation works. 7.1.4 The uses of river and lake beds are, as far as practicable, consistent with the values of the tangata whenua.



7.2 Policies Appropriate Uses within River and Lake Beds 7.2.1 To allow the following uses within river and lake beds:

• structures or activities for flood mitigation or erosion protection purposes; • structures for transportation and network utility purposes; or • structures for activities which need to be located in, on, under, or over the beds of rivers

and lakes; or • structures for cultural harvest (e.g., pa tuna); or • the maintenance of any lawful structure; or • the removal of aquatic weeds from farm drains and urban drains for drainage purposes;

or• the extraction of sand, gravel, or rock; or • the diversion of water associated with activities that are otherwise authorised; or • the enhancement of the natural character of any wetland, lake or river and its margins;

provided that any adverse effects are avoided, remedied or mitigated and that the significant adverse effects identified in Policy 7.2.2 are avoided.

7.2.2 To not allow the use of river and lake beds for structures or activities that have significant adverse effects on:

• the values held by tangata whenua; and/or • natural or amenity values; and/or • lawful public access along a river or lake bed; and/or • the flood hazard; and/or • river or lake bed or bank stability; and/or • water quality; and/or • water quantity and hydraulic processes (such as river flows and sediment transport);

and/or• the safety of canoeists or rafters.

Structures in River and Lake Beds 7.2.10 To ensure that all structures in or on the beds of rivers and lakes which are visible are adequately maintained so that:

• the structure is safe; and • any adverse effects on the visual amenity of the area are minimised.

Disturbance of River and Lake Beds (including “River Beaches”, Farm Drain Maintenance and Gravel Extraction) 7.2.11 To ensure that the use of any river or lake bed which is not covered by water does not disturb nesting birds or any of the nationally threatened plant species identified in Part B of Appendix 3. 7.2.12 To ensure that the disturbance of any river or lake bed associated with the removal of vegetation:

• does not exacerbate bank erosion or the flood hazard; and/or • maintains the drainage of farmland; and/or • is required to be carried out either as a permitted activity or an activity for which a

resource consent has been granted.

The proposed works in the beds of the Mangatarere Stream and interconnected streams in the water race network are relatively small scale and limited in duration. All existing structures are to be maintained so that they are safe and do not detract from the visual amenity values of the waterbodies. Mitigation measures are proposed to minimise the adverse effects on the ecological, amenity and recreational values of the waterbodies. It is considered the proposed river bed works are consistent with the above objectives and policies.

10.6.1 Assessment of Freshwater Regional Plan Rules The following table outlines the rules and standards in the Freshwater Regional Plan as they relate to this proposal for taking, use and discharging water associated with the operation of the Carrington Water Race Scheme, and whether these standards are met.

CA

RR

ING

TON

WA

TER

RA

CE

S

C

AR

TER

TON

DIS

TRIC

T C

OU

NC

IL

AS

SE

SS

ME

NT

OF

EN

VIR

ON

ME

NTA

L E

FFE

CTS

10-1

5 St

atut

ory

Ass

essm

ent

Cha

pter

5 –

Wat

er Q

ualit

y an

d D

isch

arge

s to

Fre

sh W

ater

Activ

ity

Rule

Refe

renc

e Ac

tivity

Sta

tus

Com

men

t

Dis

char

ges

of W

ater

an

d M

inor

C

onta

min

ants

Rul

e 1

Per

mitt

ed

The

disc

harg

es fr

om th

e w

ater

race

s of

unu

sed

wat

er o

r sur

face

wat

er ru

noff

ente

ring

the

wat

er

race

s m

ay n

ot m

eet t

he c

ondi

tions

in R

ule

1.

Sto

rmw

ater

Dis

char

ge

Rul

e 2

Per

mitt

ed

The

disc

harg

e fro

m th

e w

ater

race

s of

sur

face

wat

er ru

noff

that

has

ent

ered

the

wat

er ra

ces

may

no

t mee

t the

con

ditio

ns in

Rul

e 2.

All

Rem

aini

ng

Dis

char

ges

to F

resh

W

ater

Rul

e 5

Dis

cret

iona

ry

As

the

disc

harg

es fr

om th

e w

ater

race

s m

ay n

ot m

eet t

he c

ondi

tions

for P

erm

itted

Act

ivity

di

scha

rges

of w

ater

, thi

s as

pect

of t

he a

pplic

atio

n w

ould

be

deem

ed d

iscr

etio

nary

act

ivity

und

er

Rul

e 5.

Cha

pter

6 –

Wat

er Q

uant

ity a

nd th

e Ta

king

, Use

, Dam

min

g or

Div

ersi

on o

f Fre

sh W

ater

Activ

ity

Rule

Refe

renc

e Ac

tivity

Sta

tus

Com

men

t

Min

or a

bstra

ctio

ns

Rul

e 7

Per

mitt

ed

This

rule

per

mits

the

taki

ng o

f up

to 2

0,00

0 lit

res

per d

ay o

f fre

sh w

ater

at a

rate

of n

o m

ore

than

2.

5 lit

res

per s

econ

d. T

he p

ropo

sed

wat

er ta

kes

both

exc

eed

this

qua

ntity

and

rate

.

Div

ersi

on o

f wat

er

from

an

artif

icia

l w

ater

cour

se o

r dra

in

Rul

e 9A

P

erm

itted

Th

e di

vers

ion

of w

ater

from

an

artif

icia

l wat

erco

urse

or d

rain

(whi

ch in

clud

es w

ater

race

s) w

ould

oc

cur p

erio

dica

lly a

ssoc

iate

d w

ith m

aint

enan

ce a

ctiv

ities

. It i

s an

ticip

ated

thes

e m

aint

enan

ce

activ

ities

wou

ld c

ompl

y w

ith th

e co

nditi

ons

in R

ule

9A.

Taki

ng, u

se, d

amm

ing

or d

iver

sion

of w

ater

, or

the

trans

fer t

o an

othe

r site

of a

ny

wat

er p

erm

it to

take

or

use

wat

er

Rul

e 16

D

iscr

etio

nary

Th

e ta

king

, use

, and

div

ersi

on o

f wat

er fr

om th

e M

anga

tare

re S

tream

into

the

wat

er ra

ce n

etw

ork

requ

ires

reso

urce

con

sent

und

er th

is ru

le.

CA

RR

ING

TON

WA

TER

RA

CE

S

C

AR

TER

TON

DIS

TRIC

T C

OU

NC

IL

AS

SE

SS

ME

NT

OF

EN

VIR

ON

ME

NTA

L E

FFE

CTS

10-1

6 St

atut

ory

Ass

essm

ent

Cha

pter

7 –

Use

of B

eds

of R

iver

s an

d La

kes

and

Dev

elop

men

t on

the

Floo

dpla

in

Activ

ity

Rule

Refe

renc

e Ac

tivity

Sta

tus

Com

men

t

Mai

nten

ance

, rep

air,

repl

acem

ent,

exte

nsio

ns, a

dditi

ons

and

alte

ratio

ns to

st

ruct

ures

Rul

e 22

P

erm

itted

Th

is ru

le p

erm

its th

e m

aint

enan

ce, r

epai

r, re

plac

emen

t, ex

tens

ions

, add

ition

s an

d al

tera

tions

to

exis

ting

law

fully

est

ablis

hed

stru

ctur

es w

hich

incl

udes

the

exis

ting

wat

er ta

ke s

truct

ures

. The

na

ture

of w

orks

for m

aint

aini

ng th

e w

ater

take

stru

ctur

es a

re li

kely

to e

xcee

d th

e sc

ale

of w

orks

pe

rmitt

ed u

nder

this

rule

.

Cle

aran

ce o

f flo

od

debr

is fr

om ri

vers

and

la

kes

Rul

e 36

P

erm

itted

Th

e di

stur

banc

e of

the

Man

gata

rere

Stre

am b

eds

asso

ciat

ed w

ith c

lear

ing

flood

deb

ris th

at p

oses

a

flood

or e

rosi

on h

azar

d or

for t

he p

urpo

ses

of p

rote

ctin

g th

e w

ater

take

stru

ctur

es is

per

mitt

ed. I

t is

ant

icip

ated

wor

ks u

nder

take

n fo

r thi

s pu

rpos

e w

ould

com

ply

with

the

cond

ition

s in

Rul

e 36

.

Mai

nten

ance

of d

rain

s R

ule

39

Per

mitt

ed

Per

iodi

c m

aint

enan

ce o

f the

wat

er ra

ces

is re

quire

d to

ens

ure

they

ope

rate

effi

cien

tly.

Mai

nten

ance

wor

ks in

clud

e th

e re

mov

al o

f veg

etat

ion

and

sedi

men

t to

mai

ntai

n its

orig

inal

gra

de

or c

ross

sec

tion.

It is

ant

icip

ated

the

mai

nten

ance

wor

ks w

ould

be

unde

rtake

n in

com

plia

nce

with

th

e co

nditi

ons

in R

ule

39 o

f no

cont

amin

ants

ent

erin

g th

e w

ater

and

ste

ps ta

ken

to m

inim

ise

rele

ase

of s

edim

ent.

Rem

oval

of v

eget

atio

n R

ule

40

Per

mitt

ed

Trim

min

g an

d re

mov

al o

f veg

etat

ion

is u

nder

take

n as

par

t of t

he m

aint

enan

ce w

orks

for t

he w

ater

ra

ces

and

conn

ecte

d st

ream

s. S

ome

trim

min

g an

d re

mov

al o

f veg

etat

ion

may

invo

lve

dist

urba

nce

of th

e st

ream

bed

to a

void

or m

itiga

te th

e ad

vers

e ef

fect

s of

floo

ding

or e

rosi

on, o

r for

the

purp

ose

of p

rote

ctin

g st

ruct

ures

. No

stre

ams

in th

e C

arrin

gton

wat

er ra

ce n

etw

ork

are

iden

tifie

d in

Pol

icy

4.2.

10 (A

ppen

dix

2 –

wat

er b

odie

s w

ith a

hig

h de

gree

of n

atur

al c

hara

cter

). It

is a

ntic

ipat

ed th

e tri

mm

ing

and

rem

oval

of v

eget

atio

n w

ould

be

unde

rtake

n in

com

plia

nce

with

the

cond

ition

s lis

ted

in R

ule

40.

All

rem

aini

ng u

ses

of

river

and

lake

bed

s R

ule

49

Dis

cret

iona

ry

The

use

of a

ny ri

ver o

r lak

e be

d is

a d

iscr

etio

nary

act

ivity

und

er R

ule

49. T

his

‘cat

ch-a

ll’ ru

le

cove

rs a

ll ot

her u

ses

and

activ

ities

for m

aint

aini

ng th

e C

arrin

gton

wat

er ra

ce n

etw

ork.



Based on the above assessment, the following resource consents are sought:

Table 10-1: Resource Consents Sought by Carterton District Council

Activity Rule Number/Activity Status

Consent No.

Land Use Consent for all structures and works in/on/over/under the bed of the Mangatarere Stream to maintain and facilitate water flow into the water race intake structure

Rule 49: Discretionary

Activity 1

Land Use Consent for all structures and works in/on/over/under the bed of natural rivers within the Carrington Water Race Scheme to maintain and operate the water races (structures include but are not limited to flumes, culverts and sumps)


Activity 2

A Water Permit to take and use surface water from the Mangatarere Stream at a maximum rate of 113 l/s for up to 24 hours per day for the core/base operation of the Carrington Water Race Network


Activity 3

A Water Permit to take, divert and use surface water from the Mangatarere Stream at a maximum rate of 250 l/s for up to 24 hours per day as a supplementary allocation for the Carrington Water Race Network


Activity 4

A Water Permit to take, divert and use surface water from an unnamed stream (near Cobden Road) at a maximum rate of 160 l/s for up to 24 hours per day for the Carrington Water Race Network


Activity 5

A Discharge Permit to discharge unused water from the Carrington Water Race Scheme which may contain contaminants to various watercourses


Activity 6

10.7 Other Relevant Documents10.7.1 Proposed National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management The Proposed National Policy Statement (NPS) for Freshwater Management was publicly notified in late 2008 for submissions. The Board of Inquiry has heard submissions and reported back to the Minister for the Environment on these submissions in early 2010. To date, the Minister has not ratified this Proposed NPS.

While the Proposed National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management has no statutory basis, it does reflect Central Government’s policy and directions to local government regarding the management of the nation’s freshwater resources. Therefore, some consideration could be given to the objectives and policies contained in the NPS when assessing the application.

The key relevant objectives of the Proposed NPS are as follows:

Objective 1 – Enabling Well-being of People and Communities To ensure that freshwater resources are managed in a way that enables the people and communities of New Zealand to provide for their social, economic and cultural well-being, and their health and safety.

Objective 2 – Ensuring Integrated Management of Effects on Fresh Water To ensure effective integrated management (including by the co-ordination and sequencing of land-use development with investment in infrastructure for supply, storage and distribution of fresh



water) of the effects of Land-use Development and discharges of contaminants on the quality and available quantity of fresh water.

Objective 3 – Improving the Quality of Fresh Water To ensure the progressive enhancement of the overall quality of Freshwater Resources, including actions to ensure appropriate Freshwater Resources can reach or exceed a swimmable standard.

Objective 4 – Recognising and Protecting Life Supporting Capacity and Ecological Values To ensure the life supporting capacity and ecological values of Freshwater Resources are recognised and protected from inappropriate –

• Taking, use, damming or diverting of fresh water; and • Land-use Development; and • Discharges of contaminants.

Objective 7 – Efficient use of fresh water To ensure that allocated fresh water is used efficiently particularly in terms of the following:

(a) avoiding wastage: (b) avoiding excessive contamination: (c) facilitating opportunities to increase benefits from the use of fresh water.

Objective 8 – Iwi and hap Roles and Tangata Whenua Values and Interests To ensure that iwi and hap are involved, and Tangata Whenua Values and Interests are identified and reflected, in the management of Freshwater Resources including the matters specified in Objectives 1–7.

Objective 9 – Ensuring Effective Monitoring and Reporting To ensure that regional councils and territorial authorities undertake effective monitoring and reporting of the matters specified in Objectives 1–8.

Policy 6 - Policy as to certain consents and designations Without limiting Policies 1 to 3, this National Policy Statement will be achieved also through the inclusion, unless inappropriate, of conditions on any relevant resource consents granted and recommendations on designations confirmed in respect of the following:

(a) Efficient Consumptive Use of fresh water (including where appropriate, the return of fresh water to Freshwater Resources): (b) Protection against degradation of the quality of Freshwater Resources (including through the management of activities giving rise to stormwater discharges): (c) Sustainable management of demands on fresh water in a manner which has regard to available supply of fresh water and adverse effects, both individual and cumulative: (d) Integrated management of the effects of Land-use Development and discharges of contaminants on the quality and available quantity of Freshwater Resources: to be achieved, as a minimum, by the use of industry good practice: (e) Monitoring and reporting on matters relating to paragraphs (a) to (d).

The proposal is considered generally consistent with the objectives and policy in the Proposed NPS in that:

It enables the ongoing wellbeing of people and rural communities on the Carterton plains by providing an affordable and reliable source of stock water;

It maintains the life supporting capacity and ecosystem values of freshwater resources on the Carterton plains which have developed in response to the historical water take regime and land uses on the Carterton plains;

A more effective monitoring and reporting regime is proposed to provide more accurate measurements and data on the water taken, used and discharged; and

The adverse environmental effects of the continued operation of the Carrington Water Race Scheme have been appropriately avoided, remedied or mitigated, as detailed in Section 6 and 7 of this AEE.



10.7.2 Resource Management (Measurement and Reporting of Water Takes) Regulations 2010

The Regulations (which come into force on 10th November 2010) impose minimum requirements on the holders of certain water permits to keep and provide records of water taken under the permits.

The Regulations apply to a water permit that allows fresh water to be taken at a rate of 5 litres/second or more, unless the taking of the water is non-consumptive (as described in regulation 4(2)).

The permit holder must keep records that provide a continuous measurement of the water taken under the water permit. The permit holder must provide the records to the regional council.

The Regulations specify:

The form and manner in which the records must be kept; and When and how the records must be provided to the council.

The Regulations prevail over a regional rule or a condition of a water permit, unless the rule or condition is more stringent.

In terms of implications for the Carrington Water Race Scheme, the Regulations require that the form of records provided to the Regional Council must comprise measurements (in cubic metres) reported daily or weekly (only if granted by the Regional Council) and that records must be kept with a device or system within ± 10% of the actual volume taken (assuming take is from an open channel or partially piped). CDC would comply with these regulations.

10.7.3 Proposed National Environmental Standard for Ecological Flows and Water Levels

The Proposed National Environmental Standard (NES) for Ecological Flows and Water Levels was released as a Discussion Document in early 2008. The Discussion Document sets out interim limits on the alteration to flows and/or water levels for rivers, wetlands and groundwater system which do not have limits imposed through the Regional Plans. The aim of the standard is to promote consistency in the variability and quantity and ecological evaluation of flows and water levels within these systems and establish ecological flows and water level limits within Regional Plans.

The Proposed NES recognises the link between water quality and quantity and seeks to integrate these two issues. Water management objectives would enable protection of the ecological flows and water level values assigned by the communities and Regional Councils and shall provide a baseline to relate the method or flow statistic rates against.

Since the closing of submissions in August 2008, central government has made no further progress with this Proposed NES. Therefore, it has not been evaluated in this AEE.

10.7.4 Wairarapa South County Race Bylaw 1987 This Bylaw was prepared and adopted by the Wairarapa South County Council in 1987 to apply to all water races in the Wairarapa South County at the time, including the Taratahi and Carrington water races. This Bylaw has been carried over by the CDC and is still in place today.

The Bylaw sets out the rights and obligations on Council and landowners/occupiers for the ongoing management and maintenance of the water races. The rights and obligations relate to the following matters:

Obstructions and planting in and adjacent to the water races Alteration or interference with the water races Taking water from the water races Landowner and Council responsibilities for maintaining the water races and other structures Enforcement Entry powers of the Council

CDC proposes to review and/or replace this Bylaw if consents are granted to provide more up-to-date management arrangements.


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 11-1 Conclusion

11 ConclusionCDC is seeking resource consents to enable the continued operation of the existing Carrington Water Race Scheme. The existing water race scheme has operated for a number of years and has made a contribution to the overall development and environmental conditions of the Carterton plains. The Carrington Water Race Scheme needs to continue to operate to provide a safe and reliable supply of water for principally stock, but also other uses.

The original water rights for taking water from the Mangatarere Stream were secured under earlier legislation. With the enactment of the Resource Management Act 1991 which replaced the earlier water legislation, all existing consents expired in 2001 unless resource consents were obtained. In 1993, CDC was granted a water permit to continue to take water from the Mangatarere Stream for the Carrington Water Race for a term of 9 years. Prior to the expiry of this consent, CDC lodged an application to renew these water rights. Since that time, the applications have been on-hold pending the supply of further information. This AEE responds to the further information requested by GWRC to enable the consent applications to be processed and determined.

In addition, following a review of the consents sought in 2001, additional resource consents were identified as being required to provide for the operation of the whole Carrington Water Race Scheme. These additional consents relate to discharges of unused water, and works in river beds for natural streams interconnected with the water race network. This AEE covers all the original and additional resource consents sought to provide for an overall assessment of the environmental effects for the Carrington Water Race Scheme.

Properties and activities served by the water races contribute to the local and regional economy, thereby enabling communities to provide for their social and economic well-being. Many individual properties are reliant on the water race as the principal source of stock water.

The assessment of environmental effects recognises the nature and condition of the current environment in part has responded to the historical water take regime and other land modifications. Many of the ecological and amenity values in this area are associated with the water races. Therefore, maintaining the current water take regime would provide for the economic and social wellbeing of the area, as well as maintaining the ecological and amenity values that have developed.

A monitoring and reporting programme is proposed to further determine potential effects of the water taken and used. In addition, an approach for developing and implementing further mitigation measures has been proposed to minimise effects on water quality.

Alternative water take regimes, water reticulation options and practices for maintaining and/or enhancing water quality have been considered. However, these alternatives are considered to impose significant costs (e.g. direct financial costs, opportunity costs and environmental costs) on the community which are not outweighed by the benefits (e.g. more efficient use of water).

On balance, it is considered that the Scheme provides the best practicable option for the continual supply of water and enables the ongoing effective use of existing infrastructure and provides the Carterton plains with an economically sustainable stock water supply. The Scheme will continue to provide essential support for farmers’ livelihood and positively contribute to the rural economy in the Carterton District.

A 20 year consent term is required to provide certainty to the rural community and CDC, provide security to landowners for future land-use practices, and to enable further management and efficiency gains to be investigated and implemented.

Overall, this proposal is considered to achieve the purpose and principles of the Resource Management Act in promoting sustainable management of natural and physical resources.


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS Appendix 1

Appendix 1: Map of Carrington Water Race Scheme Showing Water Takes, Crossovers and Discharge Points

GF

GF

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

_̂

_̂

Kaipaitangata Stream

Man

g ata

rere

Str e

am

High St

reet

Sout

h

High

Stre

et N

orth

Linco

ln Roa

d

Mangatarere

Valley Road

Park Road

Victoria Street

Kent Street

Conno

llys L

ine

Richmond Road

Brooklyn Road

Nicholson Road

Brooklyn Road

Mannin

gs

R oad

Benges Road

Dalefield Road

Somerset Road

Jervois Road

Waterso

ns Line

Andersons Line

Huru

rua

Road

Tea

Cree

k Ro

ad

Man

ga

tar ere Va

lley R oa

d

Dalefield Road

Belved

ere Road

Belvedere Road

Cobden Road

Cobde

n Road

Hinau

Gully

Road

Hoe

ke R

oad

Hoeke

Road

Harin

ga R

oad

Haringa Road

C01

C02

November 10, 2011 W11001_CarringtonWRN_A4.mxd © Boffa Miskell Ltd 2011

This map has been produced as a result of information provided by the clientand/or sourced by or provided to Boffa Miskell Limited by a third party for thepurposes of providing the services. No responsibility is taken by Boffa MiskellLimited for any liability or action arising from any incomplete or inaccurateinformation provided to Boffa Miskell Limited (whether from the client or athird party). This map is provided to the client for the benefit and use by theclient and for the purpose for which it is intended.

°

0 1 2 3 4km

Water Race

Stream/Drain

_̂ Water Take Location

!C Discharge (End) Location

!C Discharge (Transfer) Location

GF Water Race Crossover

Major River/Stream

C A R T E R T O N D I S T R I C T C O U N C I L

CARRINGTON WATER RACE NETWORKMap Prepared for Resource Consent Purposes

1


ASSESSMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS Appendix 2

Appendix 2: Mangatarere Stream Flow Monitoring Data

Mangatarere Stream at Gorge

PAGE 56 OF 267 WGN_DOCS-#723259-V1

Site Name:- Mangatarere Stream at Gorge

Grid Reference:- T26: 215271 E 2721485 N 6027140 Catchment Mangatarere

Catchment Area (Km2) :- 33.3 Start of record:- 9 February 1999

Description and history

This site is located about 20.5kms from the confluence with the Waiohine River. The control is unstable natural alluvial channel that has frequent rating changes.

Site installed for floodwarning and SOE monitoring.

The instrumentation is a gas purge system with a 5m transducer connected up to a System Do CPU/3 datalogger logging stage value every 15 minutes. Telemetry is used for data collection and for floodwarning alarms.

Slackline cableway installed for measuring high stage flows May 2001.

Installed a YSI Sonde probe for water quality (WQ) monitoring from October 2002 to December 2004.

Upgraded the logger to an IQuest DS 4483 and the stage sensor to an SDI12 Handar shaft encoder in March 2003.

There are 2 low flow frequency tables below. The first is from the 10 years of record. The second is what was used up to now. This table used values based on a simulated record set derived from the Atiwhakatu flow record modified by a correlation exercise between the Atiwhakatu record flows and gaugings in the Mangatarere. Now that there are at least 10 years of record, more weight should now be given to the actual record table.


WGN_DOCS-#723259-V1 PAGE 57 OF 267

Annual Extremes

Minimum MaximumYear m3/s Date Time m3/s Date Time

1999 0.151 19990219 181500 28.5 19990821 1430002000 0.169 20000312 173000 101.3 20001009 1115002001 0.093 20010326 203000 33.3 20010815 1300002002 0.200 20020522 004500 54.0 20020618 0400002003 0.149 20030218 060000 79.7 20030609 1815002004 0.223 20040402 013000 104.4 20040212 0200002005 0.040 20050225 203000 79.9 20050330 1800002006 0.123 20060319 164500 67.4 20061126 1815002007 0.149 20071216 191500 33.8 20071017 0800002008 0.058 20080229 190000 82.7 20081007 143000

Minimum Flow 0.040 m3/s Maximum Flow 104.4 m3/s

Flow Distributions

Flow Distribution Table (m3/s) 19990209 153000 to 20090101 0

0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 90 104.43 14.86 10.19 8.30 7.05 6.19 5.56 5.04 4.62 4.26

10 3.97 3.69 3.44 3.23 3.05 2.89 2.74 2.61 2.49 2.3820 2.28 2.19 2.10 2.02 1.94 1.87 1.81 1.74 1.68 1.6230 1.57 1.51 1.46 1.41 1.37 1.33 1.28 1.25 1.21 1.1740 1.14 1.11 1.08 1.05 1.02 0.99 0.97 0.94 0.92 0.8950 0.87 0.85 0.82 0.80 0.78 0.76 0.74 0.72 0.70 0.6860 0.67 0.65 0.63 0.62 0.60 0.58 0.56 0.55 0.53 0.5170 0.50 0.48 0.47 0.45 0.44 0.42 0.41 0.39 0.38 0.3780 0.35 0.34 0.33 0.32 0.31 0.30 0.28 0.27 0.26 0.2590 0.24 0.23 0.22 0.21 0.21 0.20 0.18 0.17 0.15 0.12

100 0.04

Mean 1.80 m3/s S.Dev 3.40 m3/s



Flow Frequency

High Flows (m3/s) From 19990209 153000 to 20090101 0

Return Period Flow (Record) Flow(1)

2.33 67 675 89 89 Maximum recorded

10 106 108 104 m3/sec on 2004021220 124 12650 146 149 R. Period 9 Years

100 163 166

Low Flows (l/s) From 19990209 153000 to 20090330 131500

Return Period 1 Day 7 Day 14 Day 28 DayMALF 136 166 197 261

2.33 115 140 170 2165 78 102 137 166

10 57 81 119 13820 42 65 106 11750 27 50 93 96

100 17 40 84 83

Low Flows (l/s) See note below(2)

Return Period 1 Day 7 Day 14 Day 28 DayMALF 168 - - -

2.33 138 161 201 2835 109 127 154 205

10 93 108 127 16320 81 94 108 131

100 62 70 77 80

1 Derived from The Mangatarere Stream & Floodplain Investigation report from the flow figures for the Valley Road site scaled down by (33.3/40.7)0.8

2 Derived from correlated data from the Atiwhakatu site.


WGN_DOCS-#723259-V1 PAGE 59 OF 267

Monthly mean flows

Monthly means 1999 to 2008 Flow(l/sec) at Mangatarere River at Gorge

Year Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Mean

1999 ? ? ? 1249 2890 2457 2182 2449 688 839 1893 1716 1822?

2000 986 644 924 2041 1270 2362 1781 2397 2439 5671 816 1165 1881 2001 782 262 362 245 1636 1378 1442 3142 656 1662 2610 2137 1370 2002 1236 645 2307 929 775 4422 4226 1690 1647 2095 2227 2533 2070 2003 534 326 407 367 903 3104 2132 1918 3770 3011 1931 1449 1658 2004 1407 6436 774 763 1408 4362 1862 4191 2969 3538 1098 1918 2542

2005 1145 264 2162 ? 2453 2045 1655 621 473 2191 426 778 1304? 2006 1428 386 751 2029 1911 2785 5792 2961 656 3704 3954 1758 2359 2007 363 421 956 317 ? 1302 2763 2138 1093 3390 642 445 1270? 2008 184 159 671 422 ? 2409 5084 6287 1186 3746 1491 548 2036?

Min. 184 159 362 245 775 1302 1442 621 473 839 426 445 1370 Mean 896 1060 1035 929 1656 2663 2892 2779 1558 2985 1709 1445 1980 Max. 1428 6436 2307 2041 2890 4422 5792 6287 3770 5671 3954 2533 2542 The Min Mean and Max of Annual values are for complete years only.

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am

Daysh GJ & AM21.5 l/s

WAR010181

Hodder C A & H D7.2 l/sWAR010310

McFadzean J D & H F18.89 l/s

WAR010098

Smith D G & A B26.5 l/s

WAR000298

Reid N & E E17.2 l/s

WAR010370

High St

reet

Sout

h

High

Stre

et N

orth

Linco

ln Roa

d

Mangatarere Valley Road

Park Road

Victoria Street

Kent Street

Conno

llys L

ine

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Nicholson Road

Brooklyn Road

Mannin

gs

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Benges Road

Dalefield Road

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Jervois Road

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rua

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ad

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ga

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d

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ere Road

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Cobde

n Road

Hinau

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Hoe

ke R

oad

Hoeke

Road

Harin

ga R

oad

Haringa Road

C01

C02

November 10, 2011 W11001_CarringtonConsents_A4.mxd © Boffa Miskell Ltd 2011


°

0 1 2 3 4km

Consented Surface Water Take

!. Irrigation

Water Race

Stream/Drain




GF Water Race Crossover

Major River/Stream


C O N S E N T E D S U R FA C E W AT E R TA K E SMANGATARERE STREAM

information supplied by GWRC on30 June 2011

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sure

s

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ly (D

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ly

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il –

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embe

r) fo

r the

par

amet

ers

liste

d be

low

, and

qua

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he Q

MC

I

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3

Car

ringt

on W

ater

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rook

lyn

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d in

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n 54

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the

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e tim

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ight

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ly

(Apr

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r) fo

r the

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d be

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, and

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gate

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end

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follo

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g pa

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s ar

e to

be

mea

sure

d fo

rtnig

htly

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r the

sum

mer

mon

ths

to in

dica

te w

ater

qua

lity:

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. col

i •

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l Nitr

ogen

•

Tota

l Pho

spha

te

• pH

•

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duct

ivity

•

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solv

ed o

xyge

n •

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pend

ed s

edim

ent

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ndic

ator

is to

be

used

as

the

biol

ogic

al re

fere

nce

of c

ondi

tion

(bas

ed o

n to

tal c

ount

, kic

k ne

t aqu

atic

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roin

verte

brat

e sa

mpl

ing

(thre

e re

plic

ate

sam

ples

pe

r site

)).

This

sam

plin

g ef

fort

can

be re

duce

d to

one

or t

wo

sam

ples

per

yea

r afte

r 2 y

ears

if q

uarte

rly s

ampl

ing

reve

als

no s

tatis

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ly s

igni

fican

t diff

eren

ce in

the

com

mun

ities

bet

wee

n se

ason

s.

GF

GF

!

!

!

!

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

!C

_̂

_̂


Man

g ata

rere

Str e

am

CM4

CM3

CM2

CM1

C02

C01

SH 2

Chester R

oad

Harin

ga R

oad

Brooklyn RoadDalefield Road

Belvedere Road

Huru

rua

Road

Tea Cre

ekRo

ad

Linco

ln Roa

d Park Road

Hina

u Gully Road

Man

gatar

er

e Valley Road

Hoeke Road

Cobden Road

Andersons Line

Kent Street

Jervois Road

Watersons Line

Somerset Road

Mannings Road

High S

treet

Sou

th

Rutlan

d Roa

d

Benges Road

Victoria Street

High

Stre

et N

orth

Conno

llys L

ine

Pembroke Street

Nicholson Road

Arcus

Roa

d

Chester Park Drive

Carring

ton D

rive

Mangatarere

ValleyRoad

November 10, 2011 W11001_CarringtonIMD_A4.mxd © Boffa Miskell Ltd 2011


°

0 1 2 3 4km

Water Race

Stream/Drain




! Monitoring Location

Major River/Stream


INDICATIVE MONITORING LOCATIONSMap Prepared for Resource Consent Purposes

3