Coastal water quality

Coastal waters are highly valued for recreation, production from marine farming and as a wildlife habitat. Although the majority of the coastal marine area has high water quality, in some areas human activities have led to water quality problems arising from sewage disposal, siltation, oil spills, discharge of contaminants and other impacts of land use.

Pressure on the coastal environment

Sensitive coastal environments are under increasing pressure from development, recreational use, climate change and cumulative effects on environmental quality. All of these can threaten the natural character of the coast and ecosystems. The main ports at Lyttelton and Timaru play a vital role in servicing the region’s agricultural and manufacturing sectors. Development of aquaculture requires regional councils to work in conjunction with central government agencies.

Coastal hazards

There is a history of coastal erosion and sea water inundation along parts of the Canterbury coast, damaging property and threatening life. This is expected to increase further due to climate change, which may increase the frequency and severity of storms. In addition, sea level rise is expected to continue at a more accelerated rate.

Regional consistency

With 9 district and city councils along the Canterbury coastline there is a need to integrate coastal management. There is also a need to manage cross-regional boundary issues in conjunction with government agencies to give effect to wider national policies.