PALMERSTON NORTH
ASSESSMENT OF OUTSTANDING
NATURAL FEATURES AND LANDSCAPES
13th October 2015
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Prepared by
Hudson Associates
Registered Landscape Architects
PO Box 8823 Havelock North
Ph 06 877-9808
[email protected]
www.hudsonassociates.co.nz
For
Palmerston North City Council
13th October 2015
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Contentspage
Figurespage
1Executive Summary7
Figure 1:
Photomontage - BOI Decision Outcome
15
2Background7
Figure 2: Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes Overview
19
3Issue to be Managed9
Figure 3: Palmerston North City Boundary
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4Legislative Setting9
Figure 4: Tararua Ranges ONFL - Aerial
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5Policy and Regulatory Setting9
Figure 5: Tararua Ranges ONFL - Topo50 Map
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6Existing Information9
Figure 6: Plate Movement Diagram22
7Additional Information Required9
Figure 7: Photo - Turitea Reserve
8Consultation to Date11
Figure 8: Photo - Brown’s Flat22
9
Existing Approach to Managing the Issue
11
Figure 9: Horizons Regional Council Boundary
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9.1 Effectiveness and Efficiency of Existing Approach 11
Figure 10: PNC 12km length of Tararua Range 22
10
Alternative Approaches to Managing the Issue
11
Figure 11: Photo - Tararua Ranges North of Pahiatua Track
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10.1
Effectiveness and Efficiency of Alternative Approaches
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Figure 12: Photo - Tararua Ranges South of Pahiatua Track
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11Most Appropriate Approach11
Figure 13: Photo - Harding’s Park
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12Risk of Acting or Not Acting11
Figure 14: Photo - Harding’s Park
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13Method13
Figure 15: Photo - Rounded Hills of the Northern Tararua Range
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13.1Expansiveness 13
Figure 16: Photo - Tararua Ranges Backdrop from Palmerston North City
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13.2Expressiveness13
Figure 17: Photo - Brown’s Flat26
13.3Memorability13
Figure 18: Photo - Tararua Ranges Wind Turbines
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13.4Openness 13
Figure 19: Photo - Harding’s Park Track
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13.5Simplicity 15
Figure 20: Photo - Harding’s Park Map
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13.6Complexity15
Figure 21: Photo - Tararua Ranges Backdrop to the City
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13.7Coherence15
Figure 22: Photo - Tararua Ranges Rolling Landform North of Pahiatua Track
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13.8Vividness15
Figure 23: Manawatu Gorge ONFL - Aerial
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14Potential Threats15
Figure 24: Manawatu Gorge ONFL - Topo50 Map
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14.1
Wind Farms15
Figure 25: Photo - Manawatu Gorge looking East
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14.2
Earthworks17
Figure 26: Photo - Manawatu Gorge Slip 32
16Conclusion17
Figure 27: Photo - Manawatu Gorge looking West
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Figure 28: Manawatu River High Flow
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Figure 29: Manawatu River Low Flow
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Figure 30: Manawatu Gorge Entrance Information Area
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Figure 31: Manawatu Gorge Walking Track’s
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Figure 32: Manawatu Gorge Information Board
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Outstanding Natural Features/Landscapes
Overview - Palmerston North City Council
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Tararua Ranges21
Manawatu Gorge31
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1 Executive Summary
The landscape assessment for Palmerston North City Council has been undertaken as an expert based
Outstanding natural landscapes (and/or features) are generally of high value in terms of natural science
approach, with 2 areas identified as having the significance to qualify as Outstanding Natural Features or
and aesthetic criteria, with less human modification and greater visual appeal. There may be other areas
Landscapes.
that rank highly in terms of the assessment criteria, however may not qualify as Outstanding. This is
typically due to the level of modification which provides clear evidence of human intervention, or reduced
The landscapes have been assessed in general accordance with the Modified Pigeon Bay Criteria, which is
values in terms of natural science or perceptual values. This assessment relates specifically to s6(b), being
a list of landscape assessment factors established by the Environment Court in its decision on an appeal
Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes, and has not identified amenity landscapes as provided for
for a series of mussel farms in Pigeon Bay, Banks Peninsula1 . These factors, which were refined in the
as a s7(c) matter.
subsequent Wakatipu Environmental Society Inc (WESI) v Queenstown Lakes District Council appeal, are
known from that case as the WESI criteria2. However, while the Pigeon Bay case has taken on a greater
2 Background
prominence in rhetoric, the factors have been modified in subsequent Decisions and is the commonly
used name for the method of assessing the significance of landscapes. This process is also outlined within
This assessment of the City’s landscapes was motivated by a desire to clearly identify landscapes of
Policy 6-7 and Table 6.1 of the Horizons One Plan, with the factors listed in there corresponding to the
significance within the city, including their values and characteristics, in order to provide policy direction
WESI factors, which are the factors used in this Palmerston North assessment.
and satisfy the requirements of the Horizons One Plan and the Resource Management Act. This process
The assessment process identifies seven categories for assessment, which are:
has been prompted by the Palmerston North City District Plan Sectional Review. Horizons Regional
Natural Science (Geological/Ecological)
Council have identified three Regionally Outstanding Natural Features and/or Landscapes within the City’s
Aesthetic (Coherence, Vividness, Naturalness, Memorability)
jurisdiction, with provisions relating to significant landscapes evolving as the One Plan moved from its
Expressiveness (Legibility)
Transient
Proposed version to the Decisions version and now onto the Operative Version. The three Outstanding
Shared and Recognised
areas identified in the One Plan are: The Tararua Forest Park (land administered by the Department
Tangata Whenua
of Conservation), the series of highest ridges and highest hilltops along the full extent of the Ruahine
Historic
and Tararua Ranges (including within the Forest Parks), the Manawatu Gorge. The One Plan provisions
While efforts have been made to obtain information relating to all categories, inevitably greater information
(Policies 6-6 and 6-7) have a policy framework that allows Territorial Authorities to alter, add or delete
will be held by other people in relation to each area and each category than is known to the author.
the Outstanding Natural Features and/or Landscapes identified within Schedule G of the One Plan. While
However, the results of past assessments using this process have shown a consistency in terms of higher
no areas have been added or deleted, careful consideration has refined the geographical extent of these
values occurring for specific areas over a range of factors for landscapes of significance i.e. high values
areas identified within this assessment. The general areas were identified by description within the One
may occur for geological, ecological, memorability, expressiveness, and naturalness in the same area. This
Plan and but not mapped. These areas have now been spatially defined through this assessment process.
reinforces that a particular area has landscape significance. It is then a value judgment as to whether that
It is important to note that there is a significant overlap between the Tararua Forest Park and the series of
area qualifies as an outstanding natural landscape.
highest hilltops and ridges of the Tararua Ranges, which has allowed them to be treated as one combined
Outstanding Landscape/Feature.
The request to prepare the landscape assessment was made in mid August 2015, and the fieldwork and
draft report were completed in September 2015.
1 Pigeon Bay Aquaculture Ltd and others v Canterbury Regional Council [1999] C32/99
2 Wakatipu Environmental Society v Queenstown Lakes District Council [2001] C075/2001. These have been
further refined in subsequent appeals, but the underlying principles remain the same.
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3 Issue to be Managed
The issue to be addressed in the landscape assessment is the identification of outstanding landscapes so
The One Plan acknowledges that the submission process has highlighted the potential for additional areas
that these are known and can thus be protected in terms of the requirements of the Resource Management
to those identified as outstanding, but this could not be done under the scope of the Plan’s development
Act.
as those areas had not been identified or consulted on in the notified version of the Proposed One Plan.
None of the additional areas acknowledged as absent from the Proposed One Plan by the Provisional
Part and parcel of the need to carry out a landscape assessment of the District was the fact that Horizons
Determination fall within the Palmerston North City Council limits.
Regional Council has identified outstanding landscapes at a regional scale by way of written description.
The landscape report for Palmerston North City Council was required to identify the outstanding areas
6 Existing Information
spatially and at a cadastral level. To achieve this, the assessment has reviewed the previously undertaken
mapping, describing them in terms of the Modified Pigeon Bay (WESI) factors, and determining the
Existing information that was drawn on for the preparation of the landscape assessment included the
landscape characteristics and values that relate to each area. This is intended to inform provisions and
following:
outcomes for subdivision, use and development within these identified areas.
• District Plan Boundary and cadastral information from Quickmap
• Topographic and NZTopo50 mapping from Quickmap and LINZ
4 Legislative Setting
• Aerial photography from Quickmap, WDC, Google & Bing Maps
The key provisions of the RMA that need to be considered when addressing the issue of landscape
significance are:
• Conservation significance information from DoC websites
Sn 6(a) The preservation of the natural character of the coastal environment (including the coastal marine
• DoC Actively Managed Historic Places
area), wetlands, and lakes and rivers and their margins, and the protection of them from inappropriate
• One Plan Chapter 7 and Schedule G
subdivision, use, and development.
• Operative Palmerston North City Plan
Sn 6(b) The protection of outstanding natural features and landscapes from inappropriate subdivision,
• Pigeon Bay Aquaculture Ltd and others v Canterbury Regional Council [1999] C32/99
use, and development.
• Oblique aerial photographs taken a flight over the District on 29 September 2015
Sn 6(e) The relationship of Maori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral lands, water, sites,
waahi tapu, and other taonga.
• GIS layers supplied by PNCC
Sn 7(c) The maintenance and enhancement of amenity values
• Associational factors
7 Additional Information Required
5 Policy and Regulatory Setting
The 1998 Regional Policy Statement identified regionally significant landscapes throughout the Horizons
To complete this assessment, additional information is needed from submitters to inform decision-makers
Region. This has been replaced by the One Plan which repeated part of this list, and initially mapped
on the views of land owners, the public, and cultural representatives. This information will be obtained
their extent. In the now operative One Plan, the maps have been removed and the ONFL are listed be
through submissions after notification. Without this information the assessment remains purely an expert
description in Schedule G. Additionally, the One Plan lists a set of assessment factors at Table 6.1 (which
based assessment and lacks the breadth and depth, particularly regarding Associational Factors, that
are akin to the modified Pigeon Bay factors and have generally been adhered to in this Assessment), that
comes from community input.
are to be taken into account when identifying outstanding landscapes, and when Territorial Authorities
are identifying or considering adding to the One Plan Schedule G.
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8 Consultation to Date
Consultation will take place as appropriate during the sectional review of the Proposed District Plan.
The results of the landscape assessment will lead to greater efficiency if adopted into the Proposed
Palmerston North City District Plan. A reason for this is because the areas of landscape significance
have been spatially defined so whenever a consent application arises in close proximity to a significant
9 Existing Approach to Managing the Issue
landscape, the boundaries are already defined. This removes the need for assessment work to potentially
The Palmerston North City District Plan (Operative 2000) had not identified areas of Outstanding Natural
be repeated and gives certainty to users of the Plan, which adds to its effectiveness and efficiency for
Landscapes and/or Features. The reliance has therefore been placed upon direction from the Regional
future users of the Palmerston North City District Plan.
Council, which under the previous Regional Policy Statement had listed the following outstanding areas
within Palmerston North City District;
10 Alternative Approaches to Managing the Issue
• Skyline of the Tararua Ranges
The primary alternative approach to the Operative Plan is to not only describe the areas of landscape
• Tararua Ranges State Forest Park
significance but to map these areas also. This has the advantages of introducing a higher level of certainty
• Manawatu Gorge
when applications are considered and may reduce subsequent costs in identifying whether applications
Under the Issues section, it also listed a range of criteria that qualify areas suitable for inclusion as having
relate to areas of landscape significance or not. Alternatively, the Operative Plan approach of not spatially
particular significance, such as DOC estate, Council Reserves, QEII land etc. These landscapes were not
defining any areas could be adopted and the current level of landscape protection could continue. This has
mapped and relied on the previous RPS descriptions and the qualifying criteria listed above. Now that
issues relating to uncertainty and the subsequent costs this leads to.
the Horizons One Plan has become operative, those landscapes listed in Schedule G are managed by
10.1Effectiveness and Efficiency of Alternative Approaches
Palmerston North City Council through their responsibility to give effect to Regional Plans, where significant
The expected effectiveness of the alternative approach outlined above (being the current approach) is low,
landscapes are identified.
while the expected efficiency is also low due to the potential need for redefinition of areas of landscape
9.1 Effectiveness and Efficiency of Existing Approach
significance each time a consent application is assessed.
The Palmerston North District Plan (Operative 2000) does not identify the spatial extent of those landscapes
11 Most Appropriate Approach
identified as outstanding and regionally significant. Having completed the landscape assessment for
Palmerston North City Council, it is apparent that the primary discrepancy between the One Plan and
The assessment has listed the values relating to each area, and these can be referenced into the policies
the areas identified within this assessment relate to treatment of the Tararua Ranges. Firstly, the One
that the plan writer needs to incorporate when drafting the provisions of the proposed PNDP. A cost
Plan Identifies the Tararua Forest Park, however this approach results in an ownership based cadastral
evaluation has not been carried out.
boundary (e.g. the DoC Reserve), whereas the landcover and landform are considered better indicators
for defining landscape boundaries. Secondly, within the One Plan, the skyline is treated separately to the
12 Risk of Acting or Not Acting
forest park, however it is considered that the landscape unit defined as the Tararua Ranges comprises both
the wider area of ranges and bush, along with the skyline feature. The One Plan provides for refinement
The risks of acting or not acting relates to the need to meet the statutory requirements of the RMA, in
and addition of areas at the territorial level, so it is within scope to adjust the precise boundaries when a
which sections 6 deals with significant landscapes. If these are not identified in the District Plan, there is
detailed review is undertaken at a district level. By identifying the extent of areas of landscape significance
considerable difficulty in giving effect to the Act and the One Plan.
throughout the district and the values relating to them, policies can be put in place to ensure the relevant
provisions of the RMA and One Plan are met.
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13 Method
13.1Expansiveness.
As outlined above in the Executive Summary, the landscapes have been assessed according to the Modified
Used to describe the appreciation of wide open spaces and views. Typically views of more than 180˚ and
Pigeon Bay Criteria (WESI factors), which is based on a list of landscape assessment factors established
sometimes up to 360˚. Long distance views are normally available, with objects diminishing in prominence
by the Environment Court in its decision on an appeal for a series of mussel farms in Pigeon Bay, Banks
and visibility due to distance and increasing dominance of the landscape in comparison to the object itself.
Peninsula3. These factors, which were refined in the subsequent Wakatipu Environmental Society Inc
The perception of expansiveness can be significantly reduced when large structures or features are seen
(WESI) v Queenstown Lakes District Council appeal, are known from that case as the WESI criteria4.
in the foreground or mid ground, as they provide a focus that is well short of the natural horizon. Even
However, the Pigeon Bay case has taken on a greater prominence in rhetoric, and is the commonly named
if these structures do not block the view, their presence can provide a visual distraction and focus that
method for assessing the significance of landscapes.
disrupts the perception of expanse.
The assessment process identifies three categories for assessment: Natural Science, Perceptual and
13.2Expressiveness
Associational. The factors under these three headings have also considered the factors listed in One Plan
Landscapes evolve over geological time. The ability to perceive evidence of this evolution reflects how
Table 6.1 Natural Feature and Landscape Assessment Factors. The assessment process identifies seven
expressive the landscape is of its formative processes. For example, the Manawatu River is within an
categories for assessment, which are:
incised river gorge and has evolved through tectonic processes and erosion over time, therefore it is
Natural Science (Geological, Ecological, Topographical)
Aesthetic (Coherence, Vividness, Naturalness, Memorability)
expressive of these geological processes. Highly expressive landscapes are often also dramatic, which in
Expressiveness (Legibility)
turn can make them highly memorable.
Transient
Shared and Recognised
13.3Memorability
Tangata Whenua
Historic
A landscape becomes memorable when the image perceived by the viewer remains with them after they
The assessment process gathered information from available sources, but in some cases there is less
leave the site. It is not possible to fully define what makes landscapes memorable, as the combination of
information documented within the assessment sheets than we would like. Any gaps will have the
factors is numerous and of different importance to different people. However, the factors contributing
opportunity to be identified through the statutory process. Until that time, this is an expert assessment
to memorability include how dramatic the view is, the expansiveness, openness, simplicity, naturalness,
that does not have the input from the wider community, particularly in relation to Associational factors
coherence, vividness, expressiveness and rarity of the view, and the extent of panorama obtained. In
where local knowledge is essential.
terms this landscape assessment, the more memorable views are typically those with higher naturalness
When undertaking the assessment to arrive at the Summary of Key Values, subjective assessments needed
and/or of greater dramatic quality due to their expressiveness of natural and formative processes.
to be made in relation to aesthetic values. To provide some guidance when reviewing this assessment, the
13.4Openness.
following explanations have been developed in relation to some of the subjective words used in these
Typically an open landscape has few structures or features, as such elements would collectively start to
categories:
create a sense of enclosure. Shelter belts, buildings, trees, and large structures such as wind turbines
can all contribute to a loss of openness, but they would need to be of sufficient prominence or density
to actually limit visibility of parts of the view. This is different to loss of expansiveness, which can occur
without loss of views.
3 Pigeon Bay Aquaculture Ltd and others v Canterbury Regional Council [1999] C32/99
4 Wakatipu Environmental Society v Queenstown Lakes District Council [2001] C075/2001. These have been
further refined in subsequent appeals, but the underlying principles remain the same.
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14 Potential Threats
13.5Simplicity.
Typically a simple landscape has a uniform land cover and even land form. Simplicity is lost when elements
There are a number of potential threats to the areas identified within this assessment and these have
introduce diversity. These can be varied vegetation, new structures, earthworks, drainage etc. Structures
been outlined below. These primarily relate to weed and pest nuisance and effects, loss of indigenous
such as wind turbines and access roads would reduce simplicity. However, in a somewhat ironic way, simple
vegetation, earthworks, loss of water flow and the effect of wind farms.
landscapes can also be well suited to visually accommodating wind turbines due to the simplicity of these
14.1 Wind Farms
large structures - the two can complement each other. When a simple landscape is of sufficiently large
scale, it can potentially accept simple elements such as wind turbines, but it is important that ancillary
The results of the landscape assessment conclude that wind farms may have an adverse effect on
features like roads and transmission lines have minimal impact to avoid clutter and maintain simplicity.
Outstanding Natural Landscape or Features. Consent was granted in 2010 for the Turitea Wind Farm,
located south of the Aokautere – Pahiatua Track. To date, the wind farm has not been built, but the consent
13.6Complexity
has a 10 year lapse period. Part of the consented Turitea wind farm is located within the Tararua Ranges
A complex landscape occurs when there are features, elements or patterns that individually or collectively
Landscape Protection Area. In granting this consent and undertaking its Part 2 RMA evaluation, the Board
contribute to diversity. The complexity may be in the vegetation cover or the landform. Typically, more
of Inquiry deleted many turbines but retained many others, acknowledging in relation to these that some
complex areas are able to visually integrate additional features such as large structures due to the existing
adverse effects could not be mitigated and allowed for the placement of turbines across the continuum of
diversity that already exists, provided the additional features are in scale with the existing complexity.
the ONL. Since that time, the One Plan has become operative, introducing changes to the relevant ONFL
provisions that applied under the 1998 RPS. Additionally, and sectional review of the PN City District Plan
13.7Coherence
is being undertaken with the introduction of ONLF and comprehensive wind farm provision under PC15.
A coherent landscape occurs when there are features, elements or patterns that individually or collectively
In determining the status of the landscape for this current assessment, consideration has been given to
contribute to a cohesive appearance. The coherence may be in the vegetation cover or the landform, such
the existing physical environment which has not been modified by the consented wind farm. Accepting
as a full cover of native vegetation or a repetitive landform. Typically, more coherent areas are able to be
that a consented base line exists, but that the consent was granted acknowledging that some adverse
visually identified as having a common character which can define the extent of an ONFL.
effects could not be mitigated and that the turbines crossed the continuum of the ONL, the eligibility for
the area to remain an ONL if the consent is implemented is not guaranteed. If the wind farm is constructed
13.8Vividness
in part or in its entirety (Figure 1), the TRLPA should be reassessed to determine its eligibility as an ONL.
A vivid landscape occurs when there are features, elements or patterns that individually or collectively
contribute to the landscape having ‘stand out’ or spectacular aspects within it. It is often accompanied by
memorability e.g. ‘I vividly remember …’. It can also be linked to expressiveness due to the legibility of a
scene such as an extensive coastal dune strip with no buildings. Vividness may not be limited to visual, but
may include transient values such as bird song or sea spray.
Figure 1: Photomontage - BOI Decision Outcome
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14.2Earthworks
The geology/geomorphology of the areas identified within this report play an important role in heightening
the landscape classification. This is because the geology/geomorphology within the area typically
contributes to a number of key values. These values are often connected to the underlying geology/
geomorphology and as such protecting the landform from modification, such as earthworks, must be
considered. Quarrying or mining within the Tararua Ranges Landscape Protection Area is a possible threat,
with such activities both having occurred to a small scale in the past, while damming is an unlikely but
possible threat. Significant roadworks within the Manawatu Gorge are another threat, with possible
efforts to remove bluffs or bridging for road straightening an unlikely possibility, or further large scale slip
control activities.
15 Conclusion
While efforts have been made to obtain information relating to all of the assessment factors, inevitably
greater information will be held in relation to each area and each factor than is known to the author.
However, the results of the assessment process have shown a consistency in terms of higher values
occurring for specific areas over a range of factors for landscapes of significance i.e. high values may occur
for geomorphology, ecology, hydrology, memorability, expressiveness, aesthetic and naturalness in the
same area. This reinforces the assessment that this particular area has landscape significance. It is then a
value judgment as to whether that area is an outstanding natural landscape.
As this assessment relates to s6(b), being Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes, significant amenity
landscapes do not qualify but would qualify for recognition under s7(c). Amenity values relating to cultural
importance can be mapped under s7(c), but determination of such values will require contributions from
the public and special interest groups. Before considering the inclusion of Amenity Landscapes in the
District Plan, Council should also be aware that there may be a very limited range of additional policy
provisions that would apply to significant amenity landscapes as distinct to adjacent rural landscapes.
Amenity Landscapes have not been considered as part of this assessment. It is a separate matter whether
threats to their values warrant separate recognition in district plan provisions. Three areas of Significant
Amenity Value have been recognized in relation to Policy 3-6. These are defined by geographic location
and contour level, above which the policy makes specific reference to the effect of wind farms.
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OVERVIEW
Palmerston North City Council Outstanding Natural Features/Landscapes
Manawatu
Gorge
Ta
ra
r
ua
Ra
n
ge
s
Figure 3: Palmerston North City Boundary
PNCC District Boundary
Outstanding Natural Feature/Landscape Boundary
Figure 2: Outstanding Natural Features and Landscapes Overview
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151
Name:
Tararua Ranges
Location:
NZ Topo 50 - BM34 & BM35
Description:
Generally the portion of the Tararua Ranges south of the Pahiatua Track covered in native vegetation. This includes the highest ridges and hill tops of the entire Turitea Reserve and upper reaches of the Turitea Valley west of
the Reserve, Brown’s Flat, Harding’s Park and the upper Kahuterawa Valley west of the Forest Park and Turitea Reserve.
Outstanding Natural Feature and Landscape
Tu
r
ite
a
Re
s
er
ve
ONL/ONF:
t
Fla
n’s
w
Ta
ra
r
ua
Fo
r
es
tP
ar
k
Ha
rd
in
g’
s
Pa
r
k
Bro
Figure 4: Tararua Ranges ONFL - Aerial
Figure 5: Tararua Ranges ONFL - Topo50 Map
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Figure 8: Photo - Brown’s Flat
Tu
r
ite
aP
NC
C
12
km
PN
C
C
7k
m
TD
C
Figure 6: Plate Movement Diagram
Figure 7: Photo - Turitea Reserve
22
Figure 9: Horizons Regional Council Boundary
153
Figure 10: PNC 12km length of Tararua Range
GEOLOGICAL
The Tararua Ranges have been formed as a result of the Pacific Plate being subducted under the Australian Plate
The ridgelines of the Turitea Reserve, Harding’s Park and the Forest Park form the skyline of the Tararua Ranges south
(Figure 6). This has compressed the Wellington Region, causing the North Island fault system, and a series of SSW-NNE
of the Pahiatua Track when viewed from Palmerston North city. The pastoral ridgeline of the Tararua Ranges forms the
trending basins and ranges, including the Ruahine, Tararua and Rimutaka Ranges, and the Wairarapa-Masterton Basin.
skyline north of the Pahiatua Track when viewed from Palmerston North city, with much of this being located within
The ranges are primarily composed of Greywacke (hardened sandstone and mudstone), with a mantle of weathered
the jurisdictional boundary of Tararua District Council.
material and a thin coating of soil that supports regenerating native forest.
A series of grazed or plantation foothills line the lower slopes west of the Tararua Ranges south of Pahiatua Track.
The Manawatu Plains were formed by depositional activity on the seabed floor of the Taranaki Bite up until 500,000 years
These include Te Mata Ridge, the western edge of Brown’s Flat overlooking the Kahuterawa Valley, Tirohanga and the
ago, following which uplift raised them to expose the extensive plains. Gradual erosion from traversing watercourses
ridge to its north, Ngahere Park and Bryant Hill. While lying outside the Turitea Reserve, Harding’s Park or Tararua
has shaped inundations into the plains, but alluvial deposits from major rivers such as the Manawatu has been a
Forest Park, they are prominent landforms that reflect the same geological derivations as the uplifted ranges that form
countering force, laying extensive areas of silt across the flood plains. The uplifted and alluvial deposits have combined
the spine of the Horizon’s region and Palmerston north City, but with less uplift, greater weathering and effects from
to provide a fertile plain that spreads from the foothills across to the coast, with Palmerston North City enjoying rich
previous erosional and coastal processes. They maintain a degree of prominence as an immediate backdrop to the
and highly productive soils within the river corridor and denser soils on the higher terraces.
lower terraces east of the Manawatu River but are less prominent than the ranges when viewed from the wider aspects
of Palmerston North City.
The Tararua Ranges have weathered towards their northern extent to express a rounded landform along the ridgeline,
with steeper side slopes running down towards the Manawatu Plains. This rounded form diminishes south of the
The Tararua Ranges are representative of the dynamic geomorphological processes that have taken place through uplift
Track, with the ridgeline splintering into several parallel and diverging ridges south of Marama. The Turitea Reserve is
and erosion. The Ranges represent a geologically dynamic process, formed through compression and folding of the
contained within one of these folds to the east of the main ridgeline, with steeply sloping sides providing the catchment
Pacific Plate as it slides under the Australian Plate. Remnants of the Wellington peneplain are significant geologically,
for part of Palmerston North’s water supply (Figure 7). To the south of this is the high lying wetland of Brown’s Flat
representing the connectedness of the lower North Island geological derivations. The Tararua Ranges typify the
(Figure 8), an extensive area of highland wetland that is currently grazed.
character of the wider area, representing a small portion of a wider landscape that has undergone similar evolution.
The Ranges continue their complex folding and varied topography from here through to the City’s southern boundary
Key values: Large scale landform provides a prominent backdrop to Palmerston North City of landscape and visual
at Arawaru, being the highest point in the City at 760m. A series of ridges and contained basins form the skyline, with
importance. Lesser importance north of the Pahiatua Track due to reduced visual complexity and prominence. Ridgeline
steep sides and rugged topography in contrast with the simple rolling ridgeline landform north of the Track.
in scale with the expansive flat plains of the City. Unbuilt skyline generally south of the Pahiatua Track, with multiple
ridgelines forming the skyline.
The Ruahine and Tararua Ranges form the central spine of the lower North Island and also the central spine of the land
within the Horizon’s Regional Council’s jurisdiction. With a territorial jurisdiction stretching over 200km from Levin to
Simple rolling ridgeline landform forming the skyline north of the Pahiatua Track, able to accommodate large scale
east of Mt Ruapehu, 150km of this length is encompassed by the central spine of the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges,
structures without losing its dominance due to the simplicity and coherence of the landform. Smaller scale foothills
stretching from south of Levin to northeast of Taihape (Figure 9). Of this 150km length of the two Ranges, 125km is
with clearly discernible landform as intermediate scale between the terraces and tops east of the Manawatu River.
within the Tararua and Ruahine Forest Parks, leaving just 25km outside of the Forest Parks protection. Of this 25km
length, 7km falls within Tararua District and covers pasture land north of the Manawatu Gorge, while 12km covers
pasture land within Palmerston North City and contains the rolling hills between Manawatu Gorge and Pahiatua Track
(Figure 10). The remaining length is covered in native vegetation and administered by PNCC as part of the Turitea
Reserve.
The ranges form the eastern backdrop to Palmerston North city and the Manawatu Plains, with the highest point within
the City’s jurisdiction being Arawaru at 760m. The Tararua Ranges northern extent ends abruptly at the Manawatu
River, which is also the northern extent of Palmerston North City’s territory. The eastern boundary of the City’s territory
runs generally along the ridgeline of the Tararua Ranges, although slightly to the east in the area south of Pahiatua
Track and slightly to the west in the area north of the Track. The total length of the Taraura Ranges within the City’s
jurisdiction is approximately 30km, with a little over half of this distance covered by native vegetation within the Turitea
Reserve or Harding’s Park. Tararau Forest Park lies south and east of the City’s jurisdiction.
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Figure 13: Photo - Tararua Reserve
Figure 14: Photo - Harding’s Park
Figure 11: Photo - Tararua Ranges North of Pahiatua Track
Figure 15: Photo - Rounded Hills of the Northern Tararua Range
Figure 16: Photo - Tararua Ranges Backdrop from Palmerston North City
Figure 12: Photo - Tararua Ranges South of Pahiatua Track
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ECOLOGICAL
VIVIDNESS
Pastoral farmland is the predominant land use over the ranges north of the Pahiatua Track (Figure 11). This is interspersed
Vividness within areas of the Turitea Reserve due to extreme topographical variations and within the Tararua Forest
with occasional areas of plantation forest, but the grass cover predominates.
Park due to scale of the Range, views towards and from the range, and extent of regenerating shrublands.
South of the Pahiatua Track, pasture melds into remnant plantation forest which has been left to naturally regenerate
Key Values: Vividness within the Turitea Reserve due to combination of extreme topographic variation and extensive
into native vegetation (Figure 12). Beyond this to the south lies the Turitea Reserve which merges seamlessly with the
continuous seamless vegetation cover within the Turitea Reserve and with Harding’s Park.
Tararua State Forest Park. Both are densely covered in regenerating native forest, with parts of the Turitea Reserve having
mature trees in the lower valley and extensive areas of regenerating Manuka giving way to broadleaf vegetation on
the side slopes. Shrublands with a dominant presence of Pseudowintera colorata (mountain horopito or pepperwood)
NATURALNESS
clothe the upper reaches of the ridgeline, with its traditional medicinal uses known to Tangata Whenua and its strong
The Tararua Ranges have an increasingly high degree of naturalness moving south of the Pahiatua Track. This is contributed
presence having ecological recognition. To the south in Harding’s Park, similar endemic regeneration continues, with a
to by the protected nature of the Turitea Reserve, Harding’s Park and Tararua Forest Park, the native vegetation is
wide range of broadleaf species forming the dense shrublands that cover the area.
steadily developing through its secondary regrowth phase. In some sheltered areas, it contains examples of large tertiary
The regenerating native vegetation is not limited to the reserve boundaries, but flows across the raised plateau and
vegetation. Combined with the lack of modification in terms of buildings, structures, roads and exotic vegetation, the
down the upper portions of some of the valleys to the west. At the southern end of the ranges within the City’s territory,
side slopes are dominated by pasture and some expansive areas of pine plantation below the ridgelines of the Turitea
Reserve and Tararua Forest Park. These slopes flow down to the pasture and pine covered foothills between Bryant Hill
and Te Mata Ridge.
Key values: High degree of ecological value due to extensive tracks of indigenous shrubland and taller secondary and
tertiary species within the valleys of the Turitea Reserve south of the Pahiatua Track (Figure 13). Regenerating native
vegetation throughout most of the Turitea Reserve and Harding’s Park and some upper valleys west of these.
internal Turitea Reserve is highly natural. The Tararua Forest Park also lacks modification, and native regrowth is well
established in the shrublands of the Range’s uplands. The naturalness is apparent from close quarters such as Harding’s
Park (Figure 14), but also apparent from more distant views within Palmerston North City from where the unbuilt ridgeline
of the Turitea Reserve forms the skyline, with its well established native regeneration within the Reserve clearly visible
from roads aligned to the ranges.
Naturalness is far less pronounced north of the Pahiatua Track, where there are a plethora of wind turbines and modified
land cover or pasture and some pine plantations. The rounded nature of the uplifted hills is clearly seen, with this clarity
amplified by the pastoral land cover that emphasises the topography of the northern end of the Tararua Ranges (Figure
15).
COHERENCE
Key values: Extensive native vegetation on areas south of the Pahiatua Track.
High aesthetic values within areas of the Turitea Reserve and Tararua Forest Park, where steep sided ridgelines or
extensive of upland shrublands provide a sense of coherence and scale that dominates that of the human being. When
seen from the City, coherence is due to unmodified land cover and unmodified ridgeline, although the fragmented
MEMORABILITY
topography adds complexity and reduces landform coherence. Coherence of ridgeline north of the Pahiatua Track due
The Tararua Ranges provide a memorable backdrop to Palmerston north City due to their scale and prominence (Figure
to its simple pastoral land cover and simple rounded landform.
16). The unbuilt nature of the ranges south of Pahiatua Track contrasts with the wind farm environment north of the Track,
The aesthetic values of the foothill pastoral landscapes are apparent, but mainly as an intermediate landscape
between the terraces and ridgeline. Their aesthetic value comes from the coherence of their rounded landform and
with the Turitea, Harding’s and Tararua Forest Park ridgelines providing a densely vegetated mantle to the imposing hills
of the mountain range.
the intermediate scale and form that provides a transition between the developed terraces and lower foothills and the
The ranges contribute to the sense of identity of the City, providing a strong boundary to the east and a natural backdrop
higher slopes of the range’s ridgeline.
and sharply defined skyline, particularly south of the Pahiatua Track. The ranges contrast with the extensive flatness of the
Key Values: Aesthetic coherence of the landcover generally south of the Pahiatua Track over unbuilt fragmented
landform. Simplicity of rounded landform and pastoral land cover leads to aesthetic coherence north of the Pahiatua
Track.
Manawatu Plains, while the Manawatu Gorge is a third contrasting feature that truncates the central spine by bisecting
the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges with its unique cross divide river flow. These three main elements of prominent ranges,
extensive plains and incised gorge contribute to the memorability of the City’s landscape.
Key values: Unmodified, distinctive and complex landform, vegetated unbuilt character of ridgelines as tall backdrop
aligned to the central roads of the City south of the Pahiatua Track. The skyline has high scenic qualities and natural
character provided by its landscape characteristics, its prominence and unbuilt backdrop vista to the city. Rounded
landform with modifications of land use (pastoral and plantation) and structure (wind turbines) north of the Pahiatua
Track. Less memorable than the south in terms of landform but more memorable in terms of wind farm character.
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Figure 17: Photo - Brown’s Flat
Figure 18: Photo - Tararua Ranges Wind Turbines
Figure 19: Photo - Harding’s Park Track
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Figure 20: Photo - Harding’s Park Map
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EXPRESSIVENESS (Legibility)
TANGATA WHENUA
The Tararua Ranges are a simple and legible landform expressive of its tectonic origins derived from the compression of
The Tararua Range is known as the heke or ribs of the sacred fish of Maui Tikitiki a Taranga, and is referred to as the sacred
the land as the Pacific Plate flows under the Australian Plate. The rounded hills north of the Pahiatua Track are possibly
ribs of the fish of maui. The peaks along the length of range north of the Tararua Forest Park have long been recognised in
remnant landforms of the peneplain that may have stretched from Wellington before being partially eroded to form the
Maori heritage landscape. For example, the peaks from Pahiatua Track to Arawaru are all named: Te Ramiha, Te Mairekau
sharper ridgelines south along the Tararua and Rimutaka Ranges. The sharper ridgelines and steeper valleys have resulted
(Bryant Hill), Te Tititea, Te Maramarima, Te Irawaru and Te Awawaru. To the west of these peaks the high spurs are known
from splintering of the uplifted landform and variable erosion of its surface. Brown’s Flat remains as an unusual elevated
as floating ribs. Tirohanga was traditionally used for cosmic observations and noting changes in the constellations.
wetland plateau, suspended high above the plains and river terraces below (Figure 17).
Key values: Tararua Ranges significant representing the fish of Maui, with Tirohanga a high point used for cosmic
Key values: Tararua Ranges expressive of a possible peneplain remnant with simple rounded ridgeline north of the Pahiatua
observation.
Track, eroded more complex ridgelines south of the Pahiatua Track expressive of tectonic uplift.
HISTORICAL
TRANSIENT VALUES
A large portion of the Tararua Ranges was sold to the Government in the 1870s. Over three-quarters of the Tararua Range
Wind is a dominant transient value of the area, with the Tararua Ranges being the home of more wind turbines than
any other concentration in New Zealand (Figure 18). With the wind comes dynamic air patterns and weather, with mists
forming on the upper slopes and rain falling as the moisture laden westerlies hit the high points of the ranges, condense,
and turn to precipitation. The Turitea Water catchment is well located to capitalise on this orographic process.
is within the Tararua Forest Park (none of which is within Palmerston North City District).
The Turitea Reserve as we know it today was officially granted to the Borough of Palmerston North by the Crown for water
supply purposes on the 23rd of February 1905. The Council acquired additional land to increase the catchment area of the
Reserve up until 1966 when Browns Flat in the headwaters of the Turitea Stream was purchased. Hunters and trappers
Bird life is improving within the Turitea Reserve and adjacent Forest Park as pest control has its beneficial effect. The home
have had access to the reserve on a restricted basis since 1951. In 2003, the Turitea Water Reserve was formerly classified
of the NZ Falcon and other endemic species, the avian activity contributes positively to the transient values of the area
as a Reserve under the Reserves Act 1977 and divided into three sections according to their primary purpose. These were:
south of the Pahiatua Track.
Water Supply Catchment - Local Purpose Reserve for the purpose of Water supply and the protection of indigenous flora
Key values: Wind and all the weather and sensory attributes it brings.
and fauna. In 2006 a third purpose was added to provide for renewable energy generation.
Water Structures Area - Local Purpose (Water Supply)
SHARED AND RECOGNISED VALUES
Harding’s Park - Scenic Reserve.
The Tararua Ranges includes a variety of tramping routes and, when combined with access via Harding’s Park, provides
Key values: Water Reserve for over 100 years, supplying much of the City’s water.
a wide range of recreational opportunities within close proximity to Palmerston North City. Turitea Reserve Valued also
for its water catchment which provides a major source for the city’s drinking water and for its visual backdrop to the
Manawatu Plains and Palmerston north City, as well as holding approximately 90% of the city’s endemic biodiversity..
High level of recreational use in Harding’s Park and the pine plantation to the south, with tramping and mountain biking
being popular activities (Figure 19 & 20).
The home of over 400 consented or constructed turbines, the ranges from Te Apiti south are characterised by wind
generating facilities. These are concentrated between Pahiatua Track and the Manawatu Gorge (with Te Apiti north of the
Gorge but outside the City’s boundary). Consent exists for turbines south of the track but these have not been built yet.
Key values: Ranges north of Pahiatua Track recognised as having a windfarm character. South of the Pahiatua Track
recognised as having an unbuilt natural character. Harding’s Park and Tararua Forest Park enjoyed for recreational walking
and tramping.
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Figure 21: Photo - Tararua Ranges Backdrop to the City
Figure 22: Photo - Tararua Ranges Rolling Landform North of Aokautere - Pahiatua Track
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SUMMARY OF KEY VALUES
Characterised by Tararua ranges with rounded landform and pastoral/plantation/windfarm land use to the north away
from the city and steeper complex ridgelines and indigenous vegetation cover to the south as a backdrop and unbuilt
skyline to the city.
The Tararua Ranges provide landscape and visual values as a prominent backdrop vista to Palmerston North City, giving
visual containment and contrast with the extensive flat plains. The height and scale of the ranges is such that it provides
a dominance over the plains contained within the confines of the City (Figure 21), particularly south of the Pahiatua Track
where the ranges are higher and the city’s built environment is closer. West of the City, the extent of horizontal plain
becomes such that the Tararua Ranges decrease in prominence as the viewer moves further away.
South of the Pahiatua Track, the proximity of the landform and extent and visibility of the native vegetation cover is such
that increased naturalness is perceived both within the Ranges and from the City. This also provides opportunities for
recreational activities and cultural association.
The unbuilt ridgelines as seen in association with the increased naturalness and vividness of the land cover, its coherence
and memorability as a backdrop vista to the city, the legibility and expressiveness of the land form all combine to create
a prominent unbuilt backdrop vista to the city with a skyline of high landscape and visual value with high scenic qualities
and naturalness.
North of the Pahiatua Track, the simplicity of the rolling landform and pastoral land cover contribute to high visual
coherence. The ranges are lower north of the Pahiatua Track than south of it and are also a greater distance from the built
up areas, decreasing their prominence over the City. The simple rolling ridgeline landform forming the ridgeline north of
the Pahiatua Track is able to accommodate large scale structures without losing its prominence due to the simplicity and
coherence of the landform (Figure 22). The simpler the structures, the more easily than can be visually accommodated.
ASSESSMENT OF ONFL
Considering the characteristics and values of the listed factors, the areas that fall within an Outstanding Natural Landscape
are those south of the Pahiatua Track as shown on the attached figure. This generally comprises all the area of the Tararua
State Forest Park that falls within Palmerston North District, the entire Turitea Reserve and upper reaches of the Turitea
Valley west of the Reserve, Brown’s Flat, Harding’s Park and the upper Kahuterawa Valley west of the Forest Park and
Turitea Reserve.
While the One Plan refers to the full extent of the skyline of the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges as being and Outstanding
Natural Feature or Landscape, this description refers to 180km of skyline, 125km of which is within forest park. Of the
remaining 25km, 13km falls within the boundary of Palmerston North City and lies north of the Pahiatua Track. This
is an area with high visual coherence due to its simple rounded landform and uniform pastoral land cover. It has less
dominance over the city in terms of a backdrop than the ranges south of the Pahiatua Track, due to its lower elevation and
greater distance from the built up part of the city. The ranges north of the Pahiatua Track lack vividness, ecological value,
naturalness, memorability and any particular associational values. For these reasons, it does not qualify as an Outstanding
Natural Feature or Landscape.
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Name:
Manawatu Gorge
Location:
NZ Topo 50 - BM35
Description:
The area of the Manawatu Gorge on the southern side of the Manawatu River that falls within the Manawatu Gorge Scenic Reserve and within the jurisdiction of Palmerston North City.
ONL/ONF:
Outstanding Natural Feature
Figure 23: Manawatu Gorge ONFL - Aerial
Figure 24: Manawatu Gorge ONFL - Topo50 Map
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Figure 26: Photo - Manawatu Gorge Slip
Figure 25: Photo - Manawatu Gorge looking East
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Figure 27: Photo - Manawatu Gorge looking West
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GEOLOGICAL
COHERENCE
The Manawatu River flows along the foot of the western flanks of the Tararua Ranges. It has the unique attribute of rising
Coherence in high within the Manawatu Gorge due to its containment and uniformity of landform creating a canyon
east of the Ruahine Ranges, crossing the central divide, and outflowing on the west coast. It pierces the spine of the
like feature (Figure 27). The continuity of escarpments clad in native vegetation plus the simplicity of river channel all
Tararua-Ruahine ranges through the Manawatu Gorge (Figure 25), emerging at Ashhurst where it joins the Pohangina River
combine to provide a sense of enclosure, grandeur and isolation in this river section of this area.
before flowing across the plains to meet the sea at Foxton. The Manawatu Gorge was formed through the ranges being
uplifted at the same time as the river flowed east to west, rather than the more normal gorge creation process of erosion
down through an existing range.
Key Values: High degree of coherence within the Manawatu Gorge due to consistency of the strong topographical
containment and continuity of the largely unmodified vegetated escarpments that dominate the scale of the road and
rail.
The Ruahine and Tararua Ranges form the central spine of the lower North Island and also the central spine of the land
within the Horizon’s Regional Council’s jurisdiction. The Manawatu River truncates the Tararua Ranges at their northern
end, carving through the mountain range and exposing greywacke base rock and shafts of shattered material loosened
VIVIDNESS
by successive earthquakes over time. The highly unstable slopes above the road on the southern side of the Gorge are
Vividness within the Manawatu Gorge due to its steep escarpments, native vegetation clinging onto the cliffs and rocks,
continually eroding, exposing the base material and shatter zones that predominate in this unique geological environment.
and the entrenched water course of the river channel all combine to provide a sense of drama and vividness in this river
Within the current landscape, there remains the dynamic qualities of the Manawatu River, capable of transforming from
section of this area.
a placidly flowing water course averaging 100 cumecs into a raging torrent carrying 1400 cumecs or more. Heavy rainfall
Key Values: Within the Manawatu Gorge due to narrow gorge-like topography, dramatic scale of cliffs and escapements
associated with the moisture laden westerly winds hitting the Ranges can cause excessive downpours, with flooding of the
with generally full native vegetation cover.
plains not an uncommon result.
The Tararua Ranges are representative of the dynamic geomorphological processes that have taken place through uplift
and erosion. This is particularly apparent in the formation of the Manawatu Gorge, which has come about by the Manawatu
River being in place as the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges were uplifted.
The Manawatu Gorge is a unique component of the wider character of the Ruahine and Tararua Ranges that have
undergone similar evolution. The Manawatu Gorge provides an ongoing opportunity for research and education due to its
dynamic geomorphology and exposed geology. It is a unique phenomenon in New Zealand, flowing across a main divide,
and rare in the world.
Key values: The Manawatu Gorge is a clearly unique geological feature in New Zealand and rare internationally due to the
east-west flow of the river across the main divide. The tight canyon like gorge formation, unmodified river, dominance of
rocky cliffs and tall extensive vegetated escarpments contrasts with the ridgeline and plains of the rest of the City.
NATURALNESS
Naturalness is prominent within the Manawatu Gorge, with the exposed rocky outcrops, steep rocky and vegetated
escarpments, and dynamic flow of the Manawatu River. The modifying elements of the road and railway (to a lesser
extent) reduce the naturalness of the Gorge, particularly with the slip control works implemented to reduce the risk of
debris falling onto the road. However, the scale of the Gorge, its dominant escarpments, the extent of native vegetation
and the dynamic river (Figure 25), all contribute to the general naturalness of the feature.
Key Values: Extensive native vegetation on all the cliffs and escarpments. Some threat to this exists due to slips and
road works, but the current scale of these remains subordinate to the dominant naturalness of the topography and
vegetation.
MEMORABILITY
ECOLOGICAL
The extent of the Manawatu Gorge that lies within the City’s jurisdiction is primarily classified as scenic reserve. Regenerating
native vegetation covers the steep side slopes of the gorge, while the greywacke base material is exposed on bluffs and
bare escarpments and clearly seen from the road. Vegetation is sparse on recent slip faces (Figure 26), but more mature
vegetation exists across the majority of the area that has avoided drastic erosion over recent years. An active biodiversity
project is underway throughout the gorge co-ordinated by DoC and Horizons Regional Council.
Key Value: Extensive cover of regenerating native vegetation clothes the tall escarpments, with regeneration assisted by
pest control and protection within the scenic reserve and from the biodiversity project.
The gorge landscape is memorable due to its dramatic scale, steep sided vegetated escarpments, narrow weaving course
and exposed rocky bluffs. All of these are clearly seen by the public from the highway that traverses the gorge, or from
the railway of passenger trains if they are running.
The ranges contrast with the extensive flatness of the Manawatu Plains, while the Manawatu Gorge is a third contrasting
feature that truncates the central spine by bisecting the Tararua and Ruahine Ranges with its unique cross divide river
flow. These three main elements of prominent ranges, extensive plains and incised gorge contribute to the memorability
of the City’s landscape.
Key Values: A narrow and enclosed Gorge with dominant topography and native vegetation cover. Canyon-like in its
appearance. Narrow highway and railway that weave precariously across the dramatic escarpments. Contrasts strongly
with the fertile plains east and west of the ranges.
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Figure 28: Manawatu River High Flow
Figure 29: Manawatu River Low Flow
Figure 31: Manawatu Gorge Walking Track’s
Figure 30: Manawatu Gorge Entrance Information Area
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Figure 32: Manawatu Gorge Information Board
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EXPRESSIVENESS (Legibility)
The Manawatu Gorge is a clearly legible feature that is expressive of the geomorphological processes that have formed
The Manawatu River was named by Haunui a Nanaia as he pursued his wife Wairaka and her abductor down the west coast
it. A unique feature, allowing the Manawatu River to flow across the lower North Island’s main divide, the Gorge exposes
of the lower North Island. Upon reaching the vast Manawatu River mouth at Foxton, he stood aghast at the prospect of
the soft shattered rock of the northern end of the Tararua Range while allowing the harder greywacke of the southern
having to cross it. Hence the name ‘manawa’ meaning heart and ‘tu’ meaning to stand still, or ‘heart standing still’.
Ruahine Range to be clearly visible by traffic using the highway that traverses the gorge. The legibility is accentuated by the
Manawatu River flowing from the Wairarapa to the Manawatu, confirming the cross range connection that the geological
Key Values: Significant in Maori mythology and for transport and connection between the west and east.
history has provided.
Key Values: Highly expressive of unusual tectonic processes, with clearly visible shatter zones, geological features and
erosion processes that have allowed the river to flow across the main divide.
HISTORICAL
The Manawatu River has been an important travelling route since early settlement. Used by Maori for travel from the
Taranaki coast through to the east coast, it formed a significant trading route and river highway. The first road was
completed in 1872 and an expanded version today still forms the primary link between the west and eastern sides of the
TRANSIENT VALUES
ranges that divide the lower north island. The railway was completed in 1891, and today remains a vital link for goods such
A dominant transient value of the Manawatu Gorge is the evident fluctuations in river level from low water to high flood
during heavy rain and storm events (Figure 28 & 29). Wind that flows across the ranges is funnelled through the gorge.
Continued erosion and slips within the Gorge. Flourishing bird life through pest control throughout the native vegetation.
as milk and timber being transported to factories and ports on the other side of the ranges.
Key Values: Used for transport and as a trading route by early settlers and a vital link and trading route between the west
and east.
Key Values: Concentration of weather related effects such as floods, wind and slips. Recovering avian activity.
SUMMARY OF KEY VALUES
SHARED AND RECOGNISED VALUES
Characterised as a unique geological feature of a steeply incised and heavily vegetated gorge crossing the main divide,
Manawatu Gorge hosts a range of walking tracks with DoC information board and facilities (Figure 30). The 4km Tawa Loop
contrasting with the other two main landscape elements of Palmerston North City, being the ranges and the plains.
Track within the confines of PN City takes 1-2 hours and includes a one way detour to the big slip lookout. Other tracks
The key values of the Manawatu Gorge are its clear legibility and rare geological significance, valued due to the unique
within the Gorge but outside of the city’s boundaries include the 10km Manawatu Gorge Track and the 1km Manawatu
Gorge Loop (Figure 28). The Gorge provides the main transportation link between the east and west for central north
island and is widely recognised and remembered by travellers. The milk train carries raw milk from the dairy farms of the
Wairarapa, Central Hawkes Bay through to the milk treatment plant at Hawera each day, while State Highway 3 is the main
road link between the Manawatu and Wairarapa/Hawkes Bay. Recreational activity including rafting and kayaking on the
river and through the Gorge.
Key values: Enjoyed for recreational water sports, walking, tramping and a vital transportation route.
east-west flow of the river through the dividing range, the vividness of the tight canyon like gorge formation, memorability
of the rugged rocky cliffs and naturalness of the extensive native vegetation. Significant to Maori in mythology and for
connection between the east and west and significant for current recreational activities of walking and water sports. The
railway and highway can be accommodated within the Gorge without adversely affecting its values due to their current
small scale and the meandering nature of the road which is generally subordinate to the dominating topography.
ASSESSMENT OF ONFL
The Manawatu Gorge qualifies as an Outstanding Natural Feature, with the extent shown in the attached Figure 21.
TANGATA WHENUA
According to Rangitane folklore, Te Apiti (Manawatu Gorge) was created through the actions of a great totara tree that
once grew on the western slopes of the Puketoi Range in the east. This totara, which became possessed of a great spirit
called Okatai, made its way west to the Ruahine Tararua maintain range and forced its way through, creating Te Apiti – the
gorge (Figure 29).
Lying within the Rohe of Rangitane O Manawatu who have held manawhenua over the region for over 700 years, they
refer to the Manawatu Gorge as Te Apiti (narrow pass). It was used as a transport route for Maori between the western
and eastern sides of the ranges, connecting western Rangitane with their eastern kinsmen who lived in Tamaki nui a Rua,
(Wairarapa/Hawkes Bay).
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