Comprehensive Stormwater Consent and Catchment Management Plans - Where do they Fit in?

The Resource Management Act (RMA) came into effect in 1991, with the purpose being “to promote the sustainable management of natural and physical resources”, such as Land and Water.

The Bay of Plenty Regional Stormwater Strategy was published in 2005 as a collaborative approach between the Regional and District Councils within the Bay of Plenty to better manage urban stormwater and improve the water quality of discharges into streams, rivers, Tauranga Harbour and Maketu Estuary. Actions sought within the strategy included Territorial Authorities obtaining Comprehensive Stormwater Consents (CSC) for urban areas in each district.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council (WBOPDC) has decided to split its District into three distinct areas in line with its water supply zones including the Western, Central and Eastern catchments. Catchment Management Plans (CMP) are being prepared for each area.

Despite the good intent of the RMA framework, the structure of planning services required to gain CSCs has put limitations onto WBOPDC’s ability to manage their stormwater system efficiently and within the existing planning heart - the District Plan.

This paper will discuss the pro and cons as well as financial implications for WBOPDC.