In Tāmaki Makaurau, we’re already starting to see the impacts of climate change, and the severe weather events earlier this year were a reminder of what we need to consider in our planning.
These events highlighted the importance of robust shoreline adaptation planning as one tool to support our coastal communities. We need plans that can guide both short-term, operational responses such as maintenance and post-storm responses, and longer-term strategic planning to inform future management options and associated funding.
Shoreline Adaptation Plans (SAPs) are Auckland Council’s first round of ‘adaptive planning’ – an approach that addresses uncertainty and risk, and places community engagement at the centre of decision-making processes. The SAPs are living documents that currently focus on managing Auckland Council-owned coastal land and assets including reserves, coastal defence structures and public facilities.
Public consultation for the Whatipū to South Head SAP is open from now to 2 April 2024 and Councillor Greg Sayers, Rodney Ward councillor, encourages the community to have their say.
“We’ve seen the devastating impacts of severe weather on our communities. It’s so important that we plan for the future in an agile way that involves our coastal communities. Your input can help shape these plans and guide our strategic planning for the future,” says Cr Greg Sayers.
The Whatipū to South Head shoreline includes (but is not limited to): Whatipū, Karekare, Piha, Anawhata, Te Henga (Bethells Beach), Raetahinga Point, Muriwai, Woodhill, Waionui Inlet and Mosquito Beach.
Visit akhaveyoursay to find out more about in-person and digital engagement opportunities for the Whatipū to South Head SAP.
About Shoreline Adaptation Plans (SAPs)
Since the launch of the programme in 2021, four full SAPs have been developed, including the Whangapāraoa Pilot, Kahawairahi ki Whakatīwai / Beachlands and East Pilot, as well as Āwhitu and Manukau South SAPs.
Each plan focusses on the potential impacts of:
- Coastal erosion
- Coastal inundation
- Rainfall flooding,
- Climate-change impacts (including sea level rise).
“Our Shoreline Adaptation Plans aim to provide a roadmap for evolving coastal management strategies over the next 100 years,” says Paul Klinac, Auckland Council General Manager Resilient Land & Coasts.
“The intention is that they reflect the intrinsic value of the coast to mana whenua as well as the local community and the need to enhance the preservation and ecological restoration of coastal environments.”
Up next
Public consultation for Tāmaki River Inlet and Bucklands Beach to Pine Harbour will be open from 1 February to 2 April 2024, and all remaining SAPs will be developed over the course of 2024/2025.
Have your say on the Whatipū to South Head Shoreline Adaptation Plans from now to 2 April 2024.
You can also tell us what you value about the coast for SAPs under consultation (or coming up for consultation) over the course of 2024 by visiting our regional social pinpoint map.
For more information on Shoreline Adaptation Plans, check out the council’s website.
