Environment
Protecting the Harbour
Latest activity - June update
Work to date has focussed on identifying kororā nesting locations. Specialist dog searches have been undertaken to literally sniff out where the nests are so we can safely relocate any that would be impacted by the project work.
New nesting habitats are being created for this purpose, authorised by DOC and supported by our project iwi-endorsed Kaitiaki (custodian). In addition, the team has focussed on cleaning up the Kaiwharawhara estuary area as part of the kororā habitat creation.
Protecting the Kaiwharawhara Stream connects to CentrePort's wider role with Taranaki Whanui and the Sanctuary to Sea programme. You can find out more about this programme here.
New kororā nesting boxes have been established as part of the project's wildlife management plan. These will become the new home to relocated birds affected by the project.
Key Focus Areas
Harbour Environment
We will manage our construction activities to reduce impacts on water quality and marine ecosystems. Key issues include protection of kororā (little blue penguin) and marine mammals.
We will also work to prevent contaminants being discharged into the harbour by using targeted management plans developed by experts involved in the project.
Neighbouring communities
Specific measures will be undertaken protect neighbouring communities including harbour users from construction impacts like dust, noise and vibration.
Targeted management plans have also been developed by experts for these issues.
Any risk to other harbour users from construction and the movement of plant and material will be managed through strict navigation protocols.
Working with partners
Working together is key to our successful environmental management. We are partnering with mana whenua iwi and our contractors as part of our planning, consenting, and delivery processes.
For more information on who our partners are, please check out out partners page.
Marine mammals
One of the priorities in our environmental work is our management and protection of korora (little blue penguins).
We have many breeding birds either within or nearby the construction site and will be working with DOC and our kaitiaki monitors to ensure their protection and safety. That includes relocating some of the birds when necessary.
It's a careful process that works around breeding patterns and finding suitable alternative spots to keep them well away from construction activity. Check out our Penguin Management Plan for more information. [link]