Further investigation in marine reserve pollution

A presentation by environmental watchdog, The Long Bay Great Park Society, to Auckland Council’s Environment and Community Committee on July 10 included scientific reports and expert testimony showing that the Long Bay Okura Marine Reserve is suffering from severe and ongoing pollution caused by development.

The group demanded that Auckland Council take urgent action to stop further destruction, seeking a resolution that Council shut down activities at all major earthwork sites discharging into the marine reserve – including those of Weiti block developer, Weiti Developments – until more effective systems for sediment and heavy metal control are implemented.

“The most serious threat the marine reserve faces is high levels of sediment coming off the land, mostly from consented sites, the largest of which are Long Bay and Weiti Developments,” the committee was told. In response, the committee resolved that Council staff should investigate the issue and report back to its next meeting.

The report will investigate options for improved management of sediment discharge into the marine reserve.