Application 124771 - Ministry of Fisheries

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2.11 The applicant currently has a private share base in the facilities which would amply cope
with the extra product from this 1 ha extension. The applicant is also aware of the current
discussions on future wharf infrastructure options and of Waikato Regional Council’s
intention to develop an aquaculture strategy which would, among other matters, consider
the future infrastructural needs of the industry. The applicant would be involved in these
studies through the Coromandel Marine Farmers Association.
3. Consideration of possible alternative locations
3.1 The RMA requires a description of any possible alternative locations or methods for
undertaking the activity for which consent is sought, where it is likely that the activity will
result in any significant adverse effect on the environment. The applicant contends that
there would be no significant adverse effect on the environment arising from this
application. Alternative sides of the existing consented area were considered for the one
hectare extension, and in consideration of practicalities such as tidal flows, navigation and
existing operations, were dismissed.
3.2 RCP rule 16.5.5A clearly anticipates the application site as being a potentially appropriate
area for marine farming.
4. Assessment of actual or potential effects
4.1 This part of the AEE deals in detail with the actual or potential effects on the environment
of the proposed activity. It also addresses the matters, where relevant, outlined in the
Fourth Schedule to the RMA and addresses all relevant matters outlined in Rule 16.5.5A
and Appendices I and IA of the RCP. The comments made below are supported by the
scientific report attached as Appendix 2 and the report: Taylor D, Clark D, Keeley N and
Goodwin E, 2012. Assessment of Benthic and Water Column Effects from Inshore
Coromandel Mussel Farms. Prepared for a Collective of Coromandel Mussel Farmers.
Cawthron Institute.
4.2 Any effect on those in the neighbourhood and, where relevant, the wider community
including any socio-economic and cultural effects
4.2.1 The existing farm of 6ha hectares has been farmed since prior to the
commencement of the RMA in 1991. It is considered that the impacts of a one
hectare extension on the “neighbourhood” would be no more than minor.
4.2.2 In terms of socio-economic effects the marine farming industry creates and
supports a range of direct and indirect employment opportunities in the Thames-
Coromandel region. It is noted that the 1ha extension is located in highly
productive waters and will make a valuable economic contribution to the
applicant’s business. The report “Economic Impact of Coromandel Aquaculture:
Report prepared for the Hauraki-Coromandel Development Group”, (Wyatt, S.,
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