Protection for unique land areas

The Far North District Council has posted letters to about 8000 property owners this week, telling them how they can help protect unique indigenous species and habitats on their land.

The council is required by the Northland Regional Council to identify Significant Natural Areas in its district and to protect them. A Significant Natural Area has high ecological value because of the native plants and habitats found there, typically native bush that is home to rare or endangered native species.

Mayor John Carter said many Far North property owners would already be aware that they had areas of potential significance on their land.

About half of the land identified by was within the Department of Conservation estate, but Carter said some landowners would be learning about the areas on their properties for the first time, and might have concerns. “For most, this will have very little impact. There is no requirement to protect the SNA through fencing, covenants or other methods, unless you intend to develop or subdivide.”

The proposed district plan would include specific rules for SNAs related to clearing vegetation or when subdividing, and that was when landowners might need to apply for resource consent.

Potential benefits of identifying sensitive areas included protecting the district’s archaeological, geological and cultural heritage; boosting science, research, and educational opportunities; and increasing tourism, especially eco-tourism. Protecting SNAs could also improve overall resilience to the effects of climate change.