16 February 2022
The Kōpū Marine Precinct Expert Consenting Panel (the Panel) Environmental Protection Authority (EPA)
Sent by email to [email protected] Tēnā koe
RESPONSE TO REQUEST FOR INFORMATION IN RELATION TO K ŌPŪ
RECREATIONAL BOAT RAMP
Thank you for the opportunity to provide further information regarding the regional significance of the proposed boat ramp and pontoon with respect to “Option 2” currently being considered by the Panel.
Your letter of 1 February 2022 requested further information as below:
Information Requested
The application includes information regarding the regional significance of the proposal in terms of the marine servicing and aquaculture industries. With respect to “Option 2”, and whether it can be considered “specified infrastructure” under regulation 45 of the Resource Management (National Environmental Standards for Freshwater) Regulations 2020 you are requested to;
1. Provide further information regarding the regional significance of the recreational boat ramp and associated carparking, including:
(a) recreational benefits and tourism opportunities (if any) associated with the recreational boat ramp;
(b) the need for the facility in terms of its location and predicted usage;
(c) the regional benefits associated with the facility and predicted regional usage;
(d) confirmation of whether the recreational boat ramp provides all tide access;
(e) any co-location / agglomeration benefits as a result of the relationship between the commercial aspects of the proposal and the recreational boat ramp and associated carparking; and
(f) analysis of the direct economic, social or cultural impacts of that aspect of the proposal.
In response to the above:
• Without approving option 2, recreational boating or fishing from Kopu will likely stagnate due to requirement to manage access in conjunction with commercial users. Conversely, allowing option 2 will enable recreational boating and fishing activities to flourish. This will allow Kopu to become a focal point for such activities and attract people to the region.
Current Facilities and Requirement for Kōpū Ramp
• Infrastructure for recreational boating and fishing activities in Waikato is extremely limited yet the demand for such infrastructure has been steadily increasing. Kopu is ideally linked to other established regional recreational activities the Thames Coromandel district is well known for including established cycle and walking trails. Within the business case1 it is noted that an observational study found that approximately 3000 recreational users utilise the current facilities at Kōpū and this is anticipated to increase in conjunction with boat ownership.
• The current availability of ramps is addressed in the Thames-Coromandel District Council publication “Recreational Boating and Fishing on the Coromandel”. This publication provides a good description of existing facilities:
In terms of other ramps along the coast, the ramp to the north-west at Shorthand Slipway is likely to disappear going forward as that space moves more toward retail and residential. The first ramp up the coast at Tararu is a private ramp that is very tidal with a lack of parking during peak times. Similarly Te Puru’s private boat ramp is also very tidal although members can use the tractor on site if needed. The ramps at Waiomu and Ruamahunga
1Page 3, Buisness Case, 2019
have limited parking and are exposed to the prevailing winds. The ramps north of Tapu (including Waikawau and Kereta) all have some development potential, but with differing issues including exposure to wind, dredging requirements or limited parking.
• There are currently 14 boat ramps along the western coastline, however only Waikawau and Sugarloaf can be considered ‘all-tide’, however, both are subject to significant constraints. Specifically, Waikawau boat ramp is privately managed and operated by club members. We have been advised that new membership applications are currently closed due to capacity issues. The public Sugarloaf ‘all tide’ ramp has dedicated pay and display parking for only 12 boat trailers. The upgraded Sugarloaf / Te Ariki Tahi scheme that is subject to consent approval retains the same footprint and parking spaces for trailer parking. In addition, both Waikawau and Sugar loaf boat ramps are experiencing at or at times exceeding capacity during the peak boating season. Thames-Coromandel District Council are also having to actively manage, through public education campaigns. about the capacity of boating facilities along the Thames Coast due to high use. Therefore, regional demand for a new public ‘all tide’ safe boat ramp with dedicated parking is high.
• It is clearly the case that the Kōpū recreational facility provided via option 2 will fill the demand for such infrastructure in the Waikato region. Anecdotal evidence is that since the publication, boat trailer demand has steadily increased, exacerbating the need for a boat ramp and trailer park at Kōpū.
• Kōpū is well situated for a regional boat ramp as it is on the junction of SH25 and SH2 providing access for Auckland, Hamilton and Coromandel traffic. As a result of its geographic location, growing demand and lack of ‘all tide’
launching options in the area the existing rudimentary gravel ramp at Kōpū has experienced increasing boat trailer usage in the past few years. Based on existing demand and stakeholder feedback, it is predicted the new facility will be in reasonably high demand for the 40 – 50 parking spaces created. The proposed scheme provides flexibility for additional parking (subject to additional consent) in the adjoining land to cater for any realisation of long term demand. The proposed new ramp facility with a 12m wide ‘all tide’ concrete ramp, floating pontoon and dedicated carpark is expected to be widely used by boat owners from Auckland and Waikato regions.
All Tide Access
• In regard to the question about all tide access, I can confirm that the proposed recreational boat ramp provides launching and retrievals for shallow draft trailered craft throughout the majority of the tidal cycle. This is the reason existing users such as Peninsula Marine and Coastguard refer to the ramp as ‘all tide’ in their submissions. As such, I have referred to the ramp as being generally ‘all tide’. However, this is strictly dependant on vessel draft and tidal level variances, there are short periods of time where there may be insufficient water depth for launching and retrieval at low tide. The tidal range in relation to the boat ramp is shown on drawing US-B325-800 Section 1 submitted with the consent application. As such, the proposed Kōpū boat ramp will provide a regional all-tide access boat ramp with with trailer parking to meet regional demand for such a facility.
Regional Benefits (Economic, Cultural and Social)
• An important direct benefit to regional boaties within the Firth of Thames, provided by the new ramp and pontoon, is improved facilities for Coastguard to respond call outs ‘all tide’, night and day. Existing operational health and safety risks and concerns for launching and retrieval operations to respond and attend to emergencies will be mitigated with the proposed ramp and pontoon under option 2. This is clearly evidenced by Coastguard letter attached. An extract from the letter that summaries the safety issue is as follows:
“The increase in recreational users has had a proportional increase in Coastguard operations and Coastguard use of this facility has increased significantly including night operations. As Kopu is the only “all-tide” facility south of Waikawau it is often used in less than ideal and often risky situations. Under Option 1 Coastguard’s ability to use the facility in an emergency or urgent callout could be compromised by the commercial ramp being blocked by other users.”
• Coastguard have been engaged by the project team throughout the development of the scheme with their
obligations to provide emergency services to access the Firth of Thames. As is noted above, the current facilities are not optimal in regard to safety during call outs, whereas having Option 2 will provide not only a safer facility but a greater flexibility in their options for providing Coastguard services to the region. It is also noted that emergency call outs are from not only local boats, but also from boats launching from one of the busiest boat ramps in the
Auckland Region, Kawakawa Bay. The emergency services requirement coupled with the strategic location of the Kōpū ramp supports the regional significance of the proposed ramp.
• During an update to iwi on the possible removal of the recreational boat ramp (option 1) due to consenting restrictions Ngati Maru reiterated to the project for Thames-Coromandel District Council of importance to ensure retaining access for small crafts for iwi members who use it for eel and flounder fishing.
• The co-location or agglomeration benefits of the recreational ramp will increase the diversity of marine vessels wishing to launch from Kōpū and therefore increase the demand for a variety of marine servicing, also located at Kōpū. For example, Peninsula Marine sells and services trailer craft and uses the existing ramp daily for testing and boat trials. Peninsula Marine’s letter of support (25 January 2022) clearly demonstrates the expected popularity and importance of the proposed boat ramp and the economic benefits to the marine servicing industry. In addition, many local businesses support recreational fishing including retailers (Hunting and Fishing), boat yards (Peninsula Marine), tackle manufacturers, suppliers, cafes, motels, restaurants, and charter operators. Existing business such as Peninsula Marine, Andys Storage, Hunting and Fishing are also anticipating direct increased economic benefits as supported by their submissions. Further, the separation of the recreational aspect from the commercial aspect (while still being in proximity) further enhances the usability of the facilities for both groups, increasing efficiency for the commercial users while avoiding possible conflicts and health and safety concerns.
• The recreational boat ramp will provide another dimension for tourist related activities. It will enable the Thames Coromandel area to market the Waikato region to a much wider and diverse range of tourists and/or be able to link marine based recreational activities to land based recreational activities to encourage people to increase the days/nights spent in the Waikato region. These sentiments were clearly expressed during the development of the Kōpū business case process with broad and wide engagement with key marine based stakeholders and iwi2.and endorsed by the comprehensive submission by the Thames Business Association and affiliated businesses, who have emphasised the need to separate commercial and recreational facilities for the benefit of all parties and the increased options for recreational and tourism initiatives.
• While I am not aware of any formal studies, specific to recreational boating in the Coromandel or Waikato Region, it is noted that the analysis of the direct economic, social or cultural impacts of the recreational boat ramp was considered together with the wider scheme in the business case. Further, the boat ramp provides attraction of smaller trailered craft as a part of the wide range of boat servicing opportunities that the scheme promotes. The most popular activity that attracts trailer boats to the area is fishing within the Firth of Thames. Provision of mussel farms has further enhanced fish habitat providing an improved regional opportunity for recreational fishing, but an ongoing issue for mussel farmers.
• In 2016 the New Zealand Marine Research Foundation published a report entitled ‘Recreational Fishing in New Zealand, A Billion Dollar Industry’. This report outlines the economic benefits that arise from recreational fishing, including “$946 million is spent annually by more than 700,000 fishers, supporting 8,100 full-time jobs, stimulating
$1.7 billion in total economic activity, contributing $638 million in Gross Domestic Product and $342 million in salaries, wages and small business profits while adding $188 million in tax revenues to help keep New Zealand functioning).”
In addition, the report notes that 100,000 international tourist per year fish while in New Zealand, while 39,000 chartering a boat for this purpose, resulting in a total direct spend of $89 million per year (included in the previous total spend figures). A copy of this report is attached for your reference.
• To add to this, NZ is the third largest trailer boat owning nation per capita and the trend is moving from moored vessels to larger trailer boats. As noted, this report was written in 2016, since which time boat use and recreational fishing has increased, although it is acknowledged that COVID will have reduced tourism over the last two-three years. While the abovementioned report has a nationwide, rather than regional focus, it does note that in the upper north island there is a total direct spend in excess of $663 million. Based on this report, it is considered reasonable to draw the conclusion that there are significant economic and social benefits to the wider region arising from recreational boating and fishing, particularly given that mussel farms provide for attractive fishing grounds. Clearly the positives of recreational fishing reach far beyond the water’s edge, and into the lives of all New Zealanders.”3
In conclusion, the proposed recreational boat ramp will meet a growing regional demand for all-tide access boat ramp, improve health and safety outcomes and result in significant social and economic benefit to the region. As such, I consider that the recreational boat ramp can be considered ‘Regionally Significant Infrastructure’.
I understand that our response will be provided to the panel and every person who provided comments on the application of requirement and the EPA website.
2See Appendix C of the Business Case, 2019
3 Estimating Marine Recreational Fishing’s Economic Contributions in New Zealand - Technical Steps New Zealand Marine Research Foundation January 2017 by: Southwick Assoc.
Sincerely
Attachment A – Recreational Boating and Fishing on the Coromandel Lorenzo Canal
Managing Director DDI 09 377 2332 M 021 748 006
Recreational Boating and Fishing on the Coromandel Background and Context
The Thames / Coromandel District has a unique coastline with an abundance of fish habitat and other seafood resource which provides huge potential in terms of leveraging off existing and potential marine and harbour facilities. At present, the infrastructure needed to service the activities in the area is of varying quality and in many cases congested and/or in need of replacement. In order to create the desired economic and tourism growth in Coromandel, TCDC needs to facilitate the provision of facilities that are fit for purpose (e.g. all tide access with sufficient parking and shelter).
Recreational Fishing is a billion dollar industry for New Zealand according to the NZ Marine Research Foundation report 2016 (ECM 4722115). Saltwater fishing is the 5th most popular leisure activity for hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders. To add to this, NZ is the third largest trailer boat owning nation per capita and the trend is moving from moored vessels to larger trailer boats.
Demand for adequate marine facilities to cater for recreational fishing and boating growth is increasing. Nationally, recreational fishing supports 8100 jobs stimulating $1.7 billion in total economic activity. The recreational and charter fishing industry is currently growing by 10%
annually and has the potential to grow at an even higher rate if well promoted. Provision of mussel farms further enhances fish habitat, thus positioning the Coromandel as a fishing mecca. World- class boating will continue to bring in both tourists and new residents alike. Research shows that fishing and outdoor activities are major draw cards for tourists and kiwis returning home to settle down and raise a family.
Many businesses support recreational fishing including retailers, boat builders, marine mechanics, tackle manufacturers, marine suppliers, marinas, motels, restaurants, and charters to name a few.
$89 million is spent by 100,000+ international tourists on marine fishing activities in New Zealand each year.
Unfortunately, development of marine facilities on the Coromandel Peninsula has not kept pace with the growth of these activities over recent decades. This has led to a current issue of lack of capacity and quality fit for purpose marine facilities to service the current demand. For non-boaties the continual growth of recreational fishing is starting to dominate the coastal land open spaces mainly through the need for the additional parking and toilet requirements. There is a very real risk of that continued growth without effective management and appropriate locations will be
detrimental to the non-fishing communities' right of enjoyment of the coastal environment. Finding the right balance and the right locations for the facilities will be important to mitigate the effects of the forecasted growth going forward.
Thames Coast Ramps and Marine facilities
The Thames-Coromandel Coast borders the western shoreline of the Firth of Thames and Hauraki Gulf and contains a world-class fishing resource and destination that is well known regionally/nationally. Recreational fishing and boating in the Coromandel has the potential to become a major international tourism attraction particularly with the America’s cup just around the corner in 2021.
There are currently 14 boat ramps between Kopu and Coromandel, including those in Coromandel Town as well as a few informal beach access sites along the west coast. Currently only two boat ramps provide fit for purpose, safe all-tide access for recreational fishers (Waikawau and Sugarloaf). Both these ramps experience significant congestion and parking issues and have the issue of long launch and retrieve waiting times during the peak season. However, there are a number of other existing ramps that could provide improved access and facilities if upgraded.
These ramps could provide alternative sites to launch from thus spreading the recreational load
across the area. Kopu boat ramp is one such ramp that would be useful to help spread the load if the recreational activities can be separated from commercial.
Current trends and discussions with key stakeholders (predominantly facility users) in particular, indicate a strong desire for growth and expansion in the Aquaculture and Recreational and Commercial fishing industries in the District. The Coromandel has an environment well-positioned for growth but needs a solid strategy to provide facilities and infrastructure that are fit for purpose going forward. The key issues for recreational boating on the peninsula are listed below:
Key Issues
Congestion at many existing boat ramps particularly during peak times;
Shared use of Sugarloaf Wharf by both recreational and Mussel Industry causing Health and Safety risks;
Unconsented Ramps or soon to expire consents on marine facilities limiting the number of facilities that are able to be maintained;
Unlicensed ramps on NZTA of DOC land e.g. Kereta Boat Ramp;
Affordability of development of new facilities;
Financial sustainability of harbour facilities and development / maintenance / renewal cost structures;
Multiple Iwi with varying interests in the coastal environment;
Marine and Coastal Area Application (MACAA) process untested;
Variable ownership models for the various ramps i.e. public vs. private.
What facilities does the area have currently and what is their status and capacity?
There are a number of existing and established public and private boat ramps and marine facilities within the Thames-Coromandel Area. Appendix A provides specific details about each ramp including location, capacity, property and consenting matters, current situation and development status where known.
How does Kopu Boat Ramp fit into the big picture for recreational fishers?
There are very few ramps with development potential that are owned by TCDC, many are privately owned and without consent in some cases. Kopu boat ramp is owned by TCDC and should be carefully considered for upgrade and separation from commercial activities going forward, if budget permits. Not only will the upgraded ramp at Kopu help with spreading the recreational boating load, it will also take a number of boats and trailers off the Thames Coast Road. (Noting the current usage would need to be verified via a user survey if time permits) If a new boat ramp for Kopu is built first it could also provide a site for business continuity while the existing larger Kopu facility is being expanded.
In terms of other ramps along the coast, the ramp to the north-west at Shorthand Slipway is likely to disappear going forward as that space moves more toward retail and residential. The first ramp up the coast at Tararu is a private ramp that is very tidal with a lack of parking during peak times.
Similarly Te Puru’s private boat ramp is also very tidal although members can use the tractor on site if needed. The ramps at Waiomu and Ruamahunga have limited parking and are exposed to the prevailing winds. The ramps north of Tapu (including Waikawau and Kereta) all have some development potential, but with differing issues including exposure to wind, dredging requirements or limited parking.
TCDC has been working with Waikawau Boat Ramp society and Ngati Tamatera to try and progress a new ramp somewhere north of Tapu. These discussions will take time and may not result in the desired outcome. Consenting for this ramp will be difficult without NZTA, Iwi and
community buy in and could be some 5+ years away assuming agreement can be reached with the key stakeholders.
It is important to understand how many recreational boaties currently use the ramp and Kopu and what they use it for. Many may use it for access to the shallows where fishing is great at certain times of the year, meaning ramps further north are of little appeal. However, with an existing ramp about 5km upstream at Turua, consideration should be given to whether that ramp could be better promoted and as such existing users should be questioned about whether they would use it and if not why not.
Critical to the project is for council to decide whether it is in the business of developing and owning ramps and wharves or not i.e it this TCDC’s core business? Undoubtedly economic growth is council’s business, as well as provision of facilities such as libraries, parks, toilets and playgrounds, all of which provide for residents and visitors. So in that case is a boat ramp any different? Boat ramps provide for residents and visitors and people are even prepared to pay for its use if it is a suitable facility.
It is a well-known fact that recreational boating and fishing is a growing pastime for Kiwis. Our coastline is what brings many people to this area to work, live and play. Leveraging off our coastal assets needs to be taken on by TCDC and its partners, otherwise the area will be stifled in its growth and potential.
Where to from here?
Appendix B outlines the process that was undertaken to find a developer (Pita Street Development) for the Coromandel Marine Gateway, which is also a major project seeking PGF funding. This process has resulted in a private investor funding and hopefully building a facility that is commercially viable, with immense public goodwill. If the design and subsequent business case stack up this could be a useful process for the Kopu development to mirror to try and reduce the burden on ratepayers.
Appendix A – Ramp details
Facility location
and capacity Property and RMA
status Parking and launch
ability Tidal Nature Programmed work Annual
Plan or LTP Future Potential Work Other Kopu Boat Ramp,
Kopu
Parking for 15-20 recreational boats and trailers plus more parking available roadside if needed
Partially on TCDC road and partially on Crown hydro parcel, ramp owned by TCDC.
Public ramp. WRC has no record of consent.
Parking limited when haul out or Leach activities in progress.
Currents and
congestion can reduce launch ease
Not really tidal except out further when
entering the Firth
Business Case underway for expansion of this facility for commercial purposes which would include separation of recreational and commercial users if demand requires.
Potential for Hardstand expansion and marina berths going forward.
Shortland Slipway, Thames Wharf, Thames
Limited capacity depending on customers at the wharf and number of boats on the hard stand.
Partially on TCDC fee simple land and partially on crown hydro parcel.
Adjacent hardstand areas are under treaty redress as well as land adjacent to Ngati Maru.
Wharf authorised in 1878 on MD plan 630.
WRC has no record of consent.
Site parking limited by the number of boats on the hardstand and customers at the wharf.
Currents and
congestion can reduce launch ease.
Somewhat tidal
Thames Wharf and adjacent land being offered back to Ngati Maru. Development plans underway for this site to become more retail focussed with little room haul out or boat ramp activities going forward.
Retail and residential space going forward.
Tararu Boat Ramp / Thames Sailing Club SH25, Tararu Capacity:
Parking for 15 boats on site
Public ramp owned by Thames Sailing Club but partially on LINZ hydro parcel. Not under treaty redress.
WRC has no record of consents
Parking limited at the site but further parking down SH25.
Tidal movements can reduce launch ease
Very tidal
Renew facility consent / authorisation with WRC.
Discuss development ideas / aspirations with Sailing Club
Improve parking and signage in consultation with Thames Sailing Club
Facility location
and capacity Property and RMA
status Parking and launch
ability Tidal Nature Programmed work Annual
Plan or LTP Future Potential Work Other Te Puru Boat Ramp
/ Puru Boat Club Inc. Sea view Avenue, Te Puru Capacity:
Parking for 100+
recreational boats
Private ramp owned by Puru Boat Club but partially on LINZ hydro parcel. Some parcels under treaty redress.
Consented by WRC
Plenty of parking on site and adjacent reserve and roads.
Tidal movement can reduce launch ease.
Ramp gradient flat but ability to launch all-tide with onsite tractor available for members.
Exposed to westerly winds.
Very tidal
Check consent status. Discuss development ideas / aspirations with Puru Boat Club.
Coastal scientist advises breakwater will be costly and difficult
Waiomu Boat Ramp, SH25, opposite Trotters Ave, Waiomu Capacity:
Parking for 20 recreational boats plus limited parking available on the roadside
Public ramp owned by TCDC partially on LINZ hydro parcel and NZTA land. Not under treaty redress, co- governance agreement exists between Ngati Tamatera and TCDC.
WRC has no record of consents. Has NZTA LTO.
Limited parking due to NZTA gravel storage site.
Ramp is often covered up with sand and rocks.
Exposed to Westerly winds
Somewhat tidal tractor launch possible most tides
Annual ramp clearance budget for works post storm events and the like.
Renew facility consent / authorisation with WRC. Get consent for regular ramp clearance. Clear ramp of debris when needed.
Discuss improvement ideas with Ngati Tamatera and NZTA.
Coastal scientist advises breakwater will be costly and difficult. Too much sedimentation ramp suitable for high tide only.
Ruamahunga Boat Ramp, SH25, South of Otuturu Cres, Ruamahunga Bay Capacity:
Parking for 15-20 recreational boats
Public ramp owned by TCDC partially on LINZ hydro parcel and NZTA land. Not under treaty redress. WRC has no record of consents. Has NZTA LTO
Limited parking mainly local use. Charter user takes up most of parking space at times.
Exposed to southerly winds
Somewhat tidal but ok with 4wd access
2018/19 Renew facility consent / authorisation with WRC.
2019/20 Extend and repair breakwater and ramp by 5-7 metres, resurface ramp with dark concrete and improve signage and parking.
Keep an eye on erosion and discuss with NZTA as needed.
Extend area via reclamation with erodible soft edge in conjunction with NZTA plans (if any).
This would increase parking and could also improve access. Good site for ramp and extension per coastal scientist
.
Facility location
and capacity Property and RMA
status Parking and launch
ability Tidal Nature Programmed work Annual
Plan or LTP Future Potential Work Other Tapu Boat Ramp,
Cemetery Point, Thames Coast Road, Tapu
Capacity:
Parking for 100+
recreational boats
Reserve under co- governance agreement between Ngati Tamatera and TCDC.
Proposed ramp would be partially on LINZ hydro parcel. Not under treaty redress.
WRC has no record of consents
Existing ramp is above
MHWS current
informal beach assess does not need consent
Plenty of parking although access of SH25 could be improved particularly from the north.
Relatively easy to launch with 4wd when
the tide is in. Somewhat tidal
Consult with Ngati Tamatera and locals on development opportunities (if any).
Prepare facility consent / authorisation with WRC if needed.
Discuss access improvements with NZTA.
Improve existing Northern beach ramp with concrete access investigate design and consent for larger ramp if feasible.
WBBRS have aspirations to build a new ramp and breakwater on northern side and have concept design and early consultation underway.
North side or reserve is a good site according to the coastal scientist and locals. Southern side site not ideal for ramp given sedimentation and exposure of delta to prevailing winds.
Significant bird life also present at the point.
Waikawau Bay Boat Ramp / Waikawau Boat Ramp Society
Inc. SH25,
Waikawau Capacity:
Parking for 150+
recreational boats
Private ramp owned by Waikawau Boat Ramp Society.
Reserve under treaty redress to Ngati Tamatera and partially on LINZ hydro parcel.
Private Ramp
consented in 2000 by WRC
Excellent parking and launch ability at this site although during peak times a wait time of up to 2 hours sometimes occurs.
Somewhat difficult to launch right at the bottom of the tide
All-tide although can be
challenging if there are extremely low tides.
Work with Ngati Tamatera on and WBBRS on development opportunities and impacts on future capacity and parking.
Try and find alternative site or arrangement that does not require ongoing dredging.
Ongoing dredging makes this site un-economic if it is ever to be downsized or reconfigured by Tamatera aspirations.
Waikawau Boat Ramp Society concerned about proposed site changes and reduction in user capacity.
Greg H had been working with Tamatera on spatial plan / reserve
management.
Kereta Boat Ramp, SH25 opposite Russek Road, Kereta
Capacity:
Parking for 20-25 recreational boats plus more potential parking opposite
Private ramp owned by Thames Angling Club partially on LINZ hydro parcel and NZTA land.
Not under treaty redress.
Consented in 1959 consent has expired.
Parking on site for 20- 25 boats with more parking across the road. (20-25)
Relatively easy launching although exposed to winds in south and west.
All tide although very low tides can make
launching more difficult.
Discuss development ideas / aspirations with Thames Angling Club and NZTA. Discuss extra parking available opposite the ramp on NZTA land with NZTA.
Renew facility consent / authorisation with WRC.
Remove gravel pile near toilet improve signage around parking and back in area.
New toilet, improve /extend parking via reclamation and possible breakwater.
Discuss cost-recovery and site management arrangements with club
Facility location
and capacity Property and RMA
status Parking and launch
ability Tidal Nature Programmed work Annual
Plan or LTP Future Potential Work Other ramp on NZTA road
reserve.
Sugarloaf Wharf and Ramp, Te Kouma Road, Te Kouma
Capacity:
Parking for 20-25 recreational boats
Public ramp owned by TCDC partially on LINZ hydro parcel Not under treaty redress.
Consented with consent held by TCDC.
Parking and mixed use facility causes health and safety risk. Not enough parking for industry let alone recreational users.
Safe and easy launching only limited by lack of parking and industry risk
All-tide, sheltered
Separate commercial from Recreational users to help address H&S issues.
Work with CoroMFA to do an appropriate expansion that will help both industry and recreational users.
CoroMFA have business base underway for a major expansion for aquaculture. PGF funding is being applied for.
Ideal area for reclamation and expansion adjacent the road per coastal scientist. Little or no dredging required and straight into deep water.
Jacks Point Boat Ramp, Wharf Road, Coromandel Town Capacity:
Parking for 100+
recreational boats
Public ramp owned by TCDC partially on LINZ hydro parcel DOC reserve under treaty redress with land going back to Patukirikiri.
Consented by WRC in 1977 expires 2032
Plenty of parking on adjacent Patukirikiri Reserve.
Relatively sheltered but siltation makes launch and retrieve unpleasant when the tide is out.
Very tidal, but sheltered
2018/19 Design and consultation for improved facility including pontoon is underway.
Consenting to be done in parallel with Pita Street Development.
Upgrade only to occur if channel is dredged by others.
Upgrade ramp to double land with pontoon if and when Pita Street Development occurs as Pita Street will pay for the dredging.
Long Bay
Campground Boat Ramp, Long Bay, Coromandel
Capacity:
Parking for 15-20 recreational boats when camp not full over peak
Public ramp owned by TCDC partially on LINZ hydro parcel Not under treaty redress.
Consented by WRC in 1991
Parking very limited when camp ground full.
Launching relatively easy and sheltered but only when tide is in.
Very tidal, local use only
Renew facility consent / authorisation with WRC.
Investigate site development opportunities and access improvements.
Resurface and repair ramp. Health and Safety improvements next 10 years.
Attachment B – Letter from Coastguard
Thames Volunteer Coastguard Inc.
P.O. Box 504, Thames.
Tel: 07 868 6060 A/H 07 868 2382
Fax: 07 868 6071 www.nzcoastguard.org.nz Thames Volunteer Coastguard Inc.
P.O.Box 504 Thames 3540 28 January 2021
To Whom it may concern
Thames Volunteer Coastguard Inc fully endorses the adoption of Option 2 for the redevelopment of the Kopu Marine Precinct. While there are greater economic benefits will accrue from Option 2, our
concerns are focused on health and safety issues.
Due to both our experience as a user and our observations of other users it is our firm belief that the current facilities present a risk to the safety of all operators. These risks remain with Option 1 and are only mitigated under Option 2.
In particular, these risks have increased in recent years with greater use of the facility by recreational and commercial users and are set to increase further. This increase in risk is for these reasons.
• At most stages of the tide there is a swift current flowing making vessel operations difficult. As there is no pontoon planned it is necessary for crew members to enter the water and the current.
This makes night operations particularly challenging.
• Due to congestion at other ramps in the District recreational users have “discovered” Kopu increasing the number of users and creating a higher potential for harm. Under Option 1 this is further exasperated by the deletion of the recreational ramp meaning commercial and
recreational will be vying to use the same space. This brings its own health and safety issues.
• The increase in recreational users has had a proportional increase in Coastguard operations and Coastguard use of this facility has increased significantly including night operations. As Kopu is the only “all-tide” facility south of Waikawau it is often used in less than ideal and often risky situations. Under Option 1 Coastguard’s ability to use the facility in an emergency or urgent callout could be compromised by the commercial ramp being blocked by other users.
In addition to obvious economic benefits, Thames Coastguard views the current project as an opportunity to eliminate the risks to current users and the users of this facility in the future.
Thank-you for this opportunity to comment on this project and we trust that our concerns will be alleviated during the design and construction process.
Yours faithfully
SE Mansell President
Attachment C – NZ Fishing Economic Report
A Billion Dollar Industry
RECREATIONAL
FISHING
ZEALAND in NEW
MARCH 2016
Recreational Fishing in New Zealand | 3
Positives of recreational fishing in New Zealand
Saltwater fishing is a popular activity for hundreds of thousands of New Zealanders.
People participate in recreational fishing for a variety of reasons—as an escape from life’s daily stresses, timeout with work colleagues where competition is rife, or simply teaching the kids how to catch their own healthy food. The positives of recreational fishing reach far beyond the waters edge and into the lives of all New Zealanders due to the substantial contribution the industry makes to the economy.
It all begins with fishers’ spending, which totals about $946 million each year.
This is a lot of money, but it is not the whole equation. These dollars then circulate through the national economy supporting 8,100 jobs and stimulating $1.7 billion in total economic activity. And there is growth potential too. Participation in both fresh and saltwater fishing increased by 10 percent between 2008 and 2014, and if fisheries are kept strong and resilient, can grow even more.
In economic terms alone, recreational fishing is a substantial and critical industry in New Zealand. Like other industries, its lifeblood is the revenues received from its customers who, in this case, are fishers. The many firms who support fishers include retailers, boat builders, tackle manufacturers, suppliers, marinas, motels, restaurants, charters, media and more. They employ thousands of people who work hard to ensure fishermen can enjoy their day out on the water.
In the absence of economic data on the recreational fishing industry the government tends to favour commercial interests who can easily quantify their activity through landings and sales data. But New Zealand has too often overlooked the significant contributions generated by marine recreational fishers.
In 2014 the New Zealand Marine Research Foundation decided it was time we all had a better understanding of the economic contribution that fishing-related recreation makes at a national and regional level. A project was initiated and experienced international researchers Southwick Associates were engaged. The technical report, Estimating Marine Recreational Fishing’s Economic Contributions in New Zealand - Technical Steps, includes the methodology used and describes the results in full, and will be available after the peer review process.
This document summarises the technical report. It delivers some hard hitting, simple and persuasive facts that can be used to improve fisheries management and stewardship through greater public awareness of what recreational fishing brings to our fine nation.
The New Zealand Marine Research Foundation is a registered Charitable Trust. It was established in 1996 to do research on aquatic plants and animals, and study the interactions between people and marine ecosystems, to the benefit of all New Zealanders.
The Foundation specialises in research that:
Is conservation focused.
Is not likely to be funded by government.
Is important to New Zealanders, their culture and heritage.
Supports the needs and aspirations of people involved in ocean recreation.
700,000
peoplefish in the sea every year.
They spend
946
million dollars.And generate
1.7
billion dollars in economic activity.4 | Recreational Fishing in New Zealand
A valuable project
As recreational anglers we have always known that our fishing generates an industry of activity and value to the New Zealand economy, but there was no easy way to describe it or put a dollar value on the collective spending.
The riddle has been solved.
After two years work the New Zealand Marine Research Foundation has successfully delivered a report defining the significant contribution that recreational fishing makes to the New Zealand economy.
Now the results need to be shared with decision makers, resource managers, the general public, and especially those generous people who have funded this valuable project.
The Foundation realises not everyone has an interest in recreational fishing, but most Kiwis aspire to having clean, healthy seas with an abundance of marine life.
This report offers substantial evidence to support a change of management focus, from the current state of sustained depletion, to a state of restored abundance. But a shift in management will only happen if there is sufficient political motivation to change.
Over the next two years the Foundation needs your help to promote these results to politicians, the Minister and Ministry for Primary Industries, other industry and interest groups.
By working together we can generate the necessary policy changes to ensure fisheries are more productive and provide for future generation’s needs.
What better way to do that than having abundant fisheries and a thriving recreational fishing industry supporting job growth and regional development.
FOUNDATION CONTACT Secretary, NZ Marine Research Foundation
P.O. Box 207-012 Hunua 2254 New Zealand [email protected] www.nzmrf.org.nz
2.65 million fishing days each year.
Recreational fishing is the
5 th most popular recreational activity for adult New Zealanders.
8,100 full-time jobs supported by recreational fishing.
TOP 40
If the recreational fishing
industry was listed on the
New Zealand Stock Exchange
the direct spending by
anglers would put this
industry among the
top 40 companies.
Recreational Fishing in New Zealand | 5
Recreational fishing generates value
Until now recreational fishers’ contributions to the national coffers have not been calculated. However, given the growing interest in fishing and the marine environment it is critical that conservative resource management decisions are made, because having abundant fisheries and a vibrant recreational fishing industry is important to all New Zealanders.
New insights provided by the economic study shows New Zealand receives around $136 million in GST revenues and $52 million in personal income tax annually from the recreational fishing industry. Through these mechanisms recreational fishers are ‘paying their way’; contributing not only to the cost of
fisheries management but also to the greater, common good.
1400 dollars per
annum is the average spend on fishing by Kiwi residents.
710 dollars spent per year by shore based fishers.
1800 dollars spent per year by boat fishers.
Recreational fishing generates
136 million dollars in GST revenues every year and
52 million dollars of personal income tax each year.
TOTAL ANNUAL DIRECT SPENDING BY RESIDENT MARINE FISHERS IN 2014/15 (INCLUDES GST)
Trip-related spending Fishing equipment spending Big equipment spending* Total spending**
NZ resident marine fishers $263,721,679 $274,007,145 $319,489,269 $857,218,094
*Fishing related spending on boats and larger items used for other activities, including vehicles and holiday homes.
**Totals are rounded to the nearest whole number.
6 | Recreational Fishing in New Zealand
Tourist spending and growth potential
Considering the total annual visitors to New Zealand and the rich resources our nation is blessed with, there is significant potential growth in recreational and sport fishing-related tourism.
In 2014 almost 109,000 international visitors sought a fishing experience while they were in New Zealand.
With information provided by charter boat operators, we estimate 26% of these visitors came to New Zealand with the primary purpose of going saltwater fishing.
An estimated 39,000, or 35% of all international visitors who go marine fishing hire a charter boat service. This includes the 28,000 people who visited New Zealand for purposes other than fishing who also hired a charter boat for a day, or longer, on the water.
The balance of visitors, 71,000, are assumed to engage in marine fishing using alternative means such as land-based fishing or boating with family or friends.
Source: International Visitor Survey, Statistics New Zealand. Note: there was a change of survey form and delivery in July 2013.
INTERNATIONAL VISITORS SALT-WATER FISHING
60000 80000 100000 120000
2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005
100,000
international tourists fish in the sea every year when visiting New Zealand.
39,000 tourists hire a charter boat for their fishing.
2,800 dollars per trip spent by visiting fishers.
89 million dollars spent by tourists on marine fishing activities each year adding
68 million dollars to the GDP.
1,100 full-time jobs
supported by tourist spending.
Recreational Fishing in New Zealand | 7
Spending profiles
In this study, spending by international visiting marine fishers takes into account the trip’s purpose. For visitors travelling specifically to go marine fishing, trip-related spending is based on reports of spending by all international visitors.
Among visitors who enjoyed some marine fishing while in New Zealand for other reasons, spending is based on only the items they purchased to go fishing, such as charter boat fees, ice and other fishing-specific items.
Spending can vary widely, from the thousands spent on travelling to and from a 10-day stint aboard a long-range gamefish charter in the north, to the half-day charter focused on catch and release sport fishing further south.
Estimates are deliberately conservative to ensure no over-representation of expenditure is captured in the report.
With careful management of our marine resources there is potential to increase these visitor numbers.
A prime example is our world-class kingfish fishery.
Prudent management of our kingfish stocks has enabled a rebuild, to a stage where they are an annual draw card for many offshore anglers seeking an unforgettable and potentially world-beating fishing experience.
Spending by these visitors adds valuable overseas income to businesses in Northland, Coromandel, the East Coast and top of the South Island.
Thirty two of the 34 of the recognised men’s and women’s world record yellowtail kingfish have been caught in New Zealand.
Just imagine the increased benefits if we gained a reputation for having other well managed and abundant fisheries.
New Zealand could become a fishing mecca!
8 | Recreational Fishing in New Zealand
Results by region and species
This document summarises the full report, Estimating Marine Recreational Fishing’s Economic Contributions in New Zealand - Technical Steps. The technical report provides details of the contribution that fishers make at a regional (Upper North Island, Lower North Island, and South Island) and national level.
Each region possesses unique natural amenities and recreational fishing opportunities for marine fishers. A weighting adjustment was made to our respondent sample based on avidity, gender, age and region of home residence.
National economic contributions in most cases are greater than the sum of regional contributions because of regional leakages captured within the national economic model. Regional breakouts are based on where the fishing occurred.
TOTAL DIRECT SPENDING ON MARINE FISHING BY RESIDENT AND VISITING FISHERS, BY REGION
Trip-related spending Fishing equipment spending Big equipment spending* Total spending**
Upper North Island $225,152,493 $197,661,531 $240,466,126 $663,280,150
Lower North Island $53,223,894 $29,740,433 $27,225,321 $110,189,648
South Island $74,067,174 $46,605,181 $51,797,821 $172,470,176
National $352,443,561 $274,007,144 $319,489,269 $945,939,974
*Fishing related spending on boats and larger items used for other activities, including vehicles and holiday homes
**Totals are rounded to the nearest whole number.
UPPER NORTH ISLAND (TE IKA A MAUI)
LOWER NORTH ISLAND
SOUTH ISLAND (TE WAIPOUNAMU)
65% of all anglers fish from a boat.
35% of anglers fish from land or a land-based structure.
More than
90% of all landed catch is taken by commercial fishers.
Around
6% of all landed catch is taken by recreational fishers.
FISHING
andour reputation for quality outdoor activities are a major draw card for tourists and Kiwis returning home to settle down and raise a family.
Recreational Fishing in New Zealand | 9 Breakdowns are also offered on the contributions of various species, nationally
and for the three regions. These categories were selected on the basis of having sufficient survey data available to conduct a robust, statistical analysis.
TOTAL DIRECT SPENDING BY NEW ZEALAND RESIDENTS, PER SPECIES (INCLUDES GST)
Species Trip-related spending Fishing equipment spending Big equipment spending* Total spending**
Snapper $133,655,064 $138,092,839 $130,993,853 $402,741,756
Kahawai $74,336,099 $95,060,626 $84,412,633 $253,809,358
Gamefish $29,920,384 $102,040,156 $93,391,881 $225,352,421
Blue Cod $23,943,669 $44,936,033 $49,854,523 $118,734,225
Kingfish $9,035,383 $37,508,933 $32,788,344 $79,332,660
Trevally $15,893,542 $25,894,755 $29,136,395 $70,924,692
Hapuku/Bass $3,366,576 $4,764,237 $4,432,622 $12,563,435
LegaSea spearheaded the fundraising effort for this report, publicising the research and generating broad public support through the What’s Fishing Worth? campaign.
Hundreds of donations were made online between August and December 2015 at www.whatsfishingworth.co.nz.
Further support was generated through grant applications and soliciting industry donations.
This is spending by New Zealand residents only.
It is no surprise that the spending associated with snapper fishing, at $403 million, is the highest amongst the seven categories.
Spending on other popular species such as tarakihi and gurnard probably fall in the range between kingfish and hapuku (groper) and bass, but there was insufficient survey data on fisher spending to enable reliable estimates to be calculated.
Spending estimates by species are not mutually exclusive given the tendency for fishers to pursue a variety of species during any one outing, and for some fishers who fish multiple regions to pursue the same species.
Therefore, some expenditures may be counted twice across the species.
*Fishing related spending on boats and larger items used for other activities, including vehicles and holiday homes.
**Totals are rounded to the nearest whole number.
10 | Recreational Fishing in New Zealand
The value chain of recreational fishing
The full technical report for this survey details that on an annual basis more than 700,000 people, residents and international visitors, fish in the sea.
When these people spend money, their expenditures change hands as businesses re-spend the dollars on employees, supplies and operating expenses, creating ripple effects through the economy.
This activity generates $638 million in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and
$342 million in salaries, wages and small business profits per annum.
It also adds a conservative $188 million in tax revenues to help keep New Zealand functioning.
In comparison, arts-related industries generate around $410 million of value added value or GDP per annum.
All of these economic impacts, including the $1.7 billion in total spending or
DEFINITIONS
Four economic contribution measures are used in this table.
Total Economic Activity / Output:
Represents the value of annual industry production for all of the industries affected by the purchases made by marine fishers.Gross Domestic Product (GDP):
Another term for GDP is value-added. It represents the difference between the industries or the establishments total output and the cost of its intermediate inputs.Employment:
Reflects marine fishing’s contributions to full-time employment.
Income:
Represents the contribution to
New Zealand’s household income.
photos
342
million dollars in salaries, wages and small business profits are generated each year due to recreational fishers’ spending.TOTAL ECONOMIC CONTRIBUTIONS OF MARINE FISHING BY RESIDENTS AND VISITORS (Net GST and import adjustments)
Total contributions by residents
Total Economic Activity Contribution to GDP
Employment Income
Total contributions by visitors
Total Economic Activity Contribution to GDP
Employment Income
TOTAL CONTRIBUTIONS BY ALL FISHERS Total Economic Activity Contribution to GDP
Employment Income
$1,508,441,221
$570,432,114 7,048
$307,140,161
$177,402,225
$67,955,971 1,076
$34,681,487
$1,685,843,446
$638,388,085 8,124
$341,821,648 Total contributions
