Waiheke Marina

Challenge

Kennedy Point Boat Harbour Ltd proposed a new marina at Kennedy Point to provide permanent berthage for around 180 recreational boats, as well as temporary berthage for smaller visiting boats. This was to be the first marina in the Hauraki Gulf Islands, so attention to the potential ecological effects was a key consideration in the design.

Achieving high environmental standards was required in the design and throughout the construction phase. Our client was particularly concerned with the ecological effects relating to water and sediment quality and the potential effects on kororā (little penguin), which were known to be present along the breakwater.

To avoid reclamation of the seabed, a floating pontoon structure was a key feature of the development. Floating attenuators were also incorporated into the design to prevent currents from being disrupted in the bay and eliminate the need for dredging and reclamation, which were a first at this scale in New Zealand.

“We initially engaged SLR for their expertise in marine effects assessment but came to rely on them more and more throughout the construction phase for ecological monitoring and advice. Along with their expert input into our operational documents, the SLR team (Mark, Cat and Pete) have been a vital part of successfully completing this innovative but complex project.”

Kitt Littlejohn, founding partner and Director of Marina Development Partners

Solution

4Sight (now SLR) has supported this project since 2016, from the initial ecological investigation through to providing ecological management at the consenting stage, construction and beyond. Due to the extensive experience of our ecological consultants in assessing the effects of marina development, we were engaged to avoid and manage any potential ecological effects.

Our team undertook a desktop review and carried out various ecological surveys, including benthic and intertidal ecology, water and sediment quality and specialist kororā surveys, including the use of a DOC certified conservation dog.

From our assessments, we were able to describe the ecology and water/sediment quality of the location and identify the actual and potential effects. Kororā monitoring and management was undertaken monthly over a two year period, before and during construction subject to an approved plan that was developed externally.

We were also involved in presenting evidence to Independent Commissioners at the Auckland Council consent application hearing. Subsequent appeals to the Environment Court required the team to be involved in expert caucusing and prepare a joint witness statement and further evidence with regards to kororā.

SLR is providing ongoing water and sediment quality monitoring to ensure the operational marina meets the conditions of the consent.

Impact

The marina was successfully developed in accordance with the assessment of effects and management plans. Continuous monitoring of the completed marina supports our earlier predictions of low ecological effects.

Actual effects on kororā have been avoided, and the subject site now supports a larger population than was established prior to the works. The population is benefiting from improved habitat opportunities and predator control.