Waikato Regional Plan (online version)

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Eplan update: This page sets out the operative Regional Plan in HTML format. As part of the April 2019 National Planning Standards, we will be migrating the current HTML plan (below) into a new eplan, which will also be re-formatted in accordance with the National Planning Standards. We expect to go-live with the new regional eplan on-line in 2019/20. Further updates on the eplan project will be provided as we progress.

You can use the table of contents below to navigate and read the plan online. Or, click here to read or download in PDF format.

Some of the sections in the plan refer to Waikato Regional Plan maps. These maps show where waterbodies and geothermal systems in the region are classified for specific management purposes.
>> You can see the water allocation maps(external link) and the geothermal maps here on this website.
>> The other planning maps are available to view via our online maps. Please contact us(external link) for further information.

Table of contents

	Chairman's Foreword
	Readers Guide
		Introduction
		Structure of the Plan
		Abbreviations and Symbols
		Relationship Between Rules and Resource Consents
		Activity Guide
1	Approaches to Resource Management
	1.1	Introduction
		1.1.1	Area Covered by the Plan
	1.2	Approaches to Resource Management
		1.2.1	Background
		1.2.2	Issues
		1.2.3	Objectives
		1.2.4	Policies
		1.2.5	Implementation Methods
		1.2.6	Environmental Results Anticipated
	1.3	Monitoring the Effectiveness of the Plan
	1.4	Review of the Plan
	1.5	Processes to Address Cross-Boundary Issues
	1.6	Responsibilities of Resource Users Under the RMA
2	Matters of Significance to Maori
	2.1	Introduction
		2.1.1	General
		2.1.2	Broad Tribal Groups
	2.2	Iwi in the Waikato Region
		2.2.1	The Iwi of Hauraki
		2.2.2	Raukawa
		2.2.3	Waikato-Tainui
		2.2.4	Ngati Maniapoto
		2.2.5	Ngati Tuwharetoa
		2.2.6	Pouakani
	2.3	Tangata Whenua Relationship with Natural and Physical Resources
		2.3.1	Issue
		2.3.2	Objective
		2.3.3	Policies
		2.3.4	Implementation Methods
		2.3.5	Environmental Results Anticipated
		2.3.6	Monitoring Options
3	Water Module
		Policies included in the Regional Plan in accordance with the NPS on Freshwater Management
	3.1	Water Resources
		3.1.1	Issue
		3.1.2	Objective
		3.1.3	Clarification of the Relationship between Water and Geothermal Modules
		3.1.4	Monitoring Options
	3.2	Management of Water Resources
		3.2.1	Issue
		3.2.2	Objective
		3.2.3	Policies
		3.2.4	Implementation Methods - Water Management Classes and Standards
		3.2.5	Environmental Results Anticipated
		3.2.6	Monitoring Options
	3.3	Water Takes
		3.3.1	Issue
		3.3.2	Objective
		3.3.3	Policies
		3.3.4	Implementation Methods – Water takes
			Water allocation maps
	3.4	Efficient Use of Water
		3.4.1	Issue
		3.4.2	Objective
		3.4.3	Policies
		3.4.4	Implementation methods – Transfer of water take permits
		3.4.5	Implementation methods – The use of water
	3.5	Discharges*
		3.5.1	Issue
		3.5.2	Objective
		3.5.3	Policies
		3.5.4	Implementation Methods - Discharges
		3.5.5	Implementation Methods - Farm Effluent Discharges
		3.5.6	Implementation Methods - Discharge of Biosolids* and Sludges or Liquids from Activated Sludge Treatment Processes to Land
		3.5.7	Implementation Methods - On-Site Sewage Discharges
		3.5.8	Implementation Methods - Well and Aquifer Testing Discharges
		3.5.9	Implementation Methods - Tracer Discharges
		3.5.10	Implementation Methods - Drainage Water Discharges
		3.5.11	Implementation Methods - Stormwater Discharges
		3.5.12	High Risk Facilities
		3.5.13	Environmental Results Anticipated
		3.5.14	Monitoring Options
	3.6	Damming and Diverting
		3.6.1	Issue
		3.6.2	Objective
		3.6.3	Policies
		3.6.4	Implementation Methods - Damming and Diverting
		3.6.5	Environmental Results Anticipated
		3.6.6	Monitoring Options
		3.6.7	Spillway Requirements
	3.7	Wetlands*
		3.7.1	Issue
		3.7.2	Objective
		3.7.3	Policies
		3.7.4	Implementation Methods - Wetlands
		3.7.5	Environmental Results Anticipated
		3.7.6	Monitoring Options
		3.7.7	Table of Wetlands in the Waikato Region for Rule 3.7.4.6
		3.7.8	Examples of Wetlands
	3.8	Drilling*
		3.8.1	Issue
		3.8.2	Objective
		3.8.3	Policies
		3.8.4	Implementation Methods - Drilling
		3.8.5	Environmental Results Anticipated
		3.8.6	Monitoring Options
	3.9	Non-Point Source Discharges*
		3.9.1	Issue
		3.9.2	Objective
		3.9.3	Policies
		3.9.4	Implementation Methods - Non-Point Source Discharges
		3.9.5	Environmental Results Anticipated
		3.9.6	Monitoring Options
		3.9.7	Guidance Notes for the Use of Fertiliser
	3.10	Lake Taupo Catchment
		3.10.1	Issues
		3.10.2	Objectives
		3.10.3	Policies
		3.10.4	Non-regulatory implementation methods
		3.10.5	Implementation Methods – Land Use and Discharge Controls
		3.10.6	Implementation Methods – Domestic Wastewater Treatment and Land Application
		3.10.7	Environmental Results Anticipated
		3.10.8	Procedure for Monitoring Objectives, Policies and Methods
		3.10.9	Map of Lake Taupo Catchment
4	River and Lake Bed Module
	4.1	River and Lake Bed* Management
	4.2	River and Lake Bed Structures
		4.2.1	Issue
		4.2.2	Objective
		4.2.3	Policies
		4.2.4	Implementation Methods - Structures In, On, Under or Over the Beds of Lakes and Rivers
		4.2.5	Existing Lawfully Established Structures
		4.2.6	Whitebait Stands
		4.2.7	Maimai, Game Bird Hunting Structures
		4.2.8	Bridges
		4.2.9	Culverts
		4.2.10	Discharge and Intake Structures
		4.2.11	Fords*
		4.2.12	Boat Ramps and Jetties
		4.2.13	Moorings*, Navigational Markers, Safety/Interception Booms, Signs, Ski Lane Markers and Canoe Gates
		4.2.14	Lines, Cables, Pipelines, Ropeways and Associated Structures
		4.2.15	Erosion Control Structures
		4.2.16	Channel Training Structures*
		4.2.17	Monitoring and Sampling Structures
		4.2.18	Maintaining Access for Maintenance of Artificial Watercourses and Beds of Rivers in Drainage Districts and River Control Scheme Areas
		4.2.19	Gradient Control Structures
		4.2.20	Removal or Demolition of a Structure or Part of a Structure
		4.2.21	Suspended Solids Discharge Standards for Permitted Activity Rules in Chapters 4.2 and 4.3
		4.2.22	Environmental Results Anticipated
		4.2.23	Monitoring Options
	4.3	River and Lake Bed Disturbances
		4.3.1	Issues
		4.3.2	Objective
		4.3.3	Policies
		4.3.4	Implementation Methods - Disturbances of the Beds of Lakes and Rivers
		4.3.5	Implementation Methods - Livestock Access to Water Bodies
		4.3.6	Implementation Methods - Disturbance of River and Lake Beds Associated with the Maintenance of a Lawfully Established Structure
		4.3.7	Implementation Methods - Sand and Gravel Extraction
		4.3.8	Implementation Methods - Introduction or Planting of Vegetation and Tree Layering on the Beds and Banks of Rivers and Lakes
		4.3.9	Clearance of Vegetation In, On or Under the Beds of Rivers and Lakes
		4.3.10	– Removal of Obstructions
		4.3.11	Environmental Results Anticipated
		4.3.12	Monitoring Options
	4.4	Lake Taupo Mooring Maps
		4.4.1	Zoned Maps Areas
		4.4.2	Prohibited Mooring Maps
		4.4.3	Existing Public Moorings
5	Land and Soil Module
	5.1	Accelerated Erosion*
		5.1.1	Issue
		5.1.2	Objective
		5.1.3	Policies
		5.1.4	Implementation Methods - Accelerated Erosion
		5.1.5	Conditions for Permitted Activity Rule 5.1.4.11 and Standards and Terms for Controlled Activity Rules
		5.1.6	Matters over which Waikato Regional Council will Reserve Control
		5.1.7	Environmental Results Anticipated
		5.1.8	Monitoring Options
	5.2	Discharges Onto or Into Land
		5.2.1	Issue
		5.2.2	Objective
		5.2.3	Policies
		5.2.4	Implementation Methods - Discharges Onto or Into Land
		5.2.5	Implementation Methods - Cleanfilling* and Overburden* Disposal
		5.2.6	Implementation Methods - Dumps* and Offal* Holes on Production Land
		5.2.7	Implementation Methods - Landfills
		5.2.8	Implementation Methods - Composting of Green Waste* and Other Organic Materials
		5.2.9	Implementation Methods - Dust Suppression
		5.2.10	Environmental Results Anticipated
		5.2.11	Monitoring Options
		5.2.12	Good Practice Guide on Location of Dumps and Offal Holes on Production Land
	5.3	Contaminated Land*
		5.3.1	Issue
		5.3.2	Objective
		5.3.3	Policies
		5.3.4	Implementation Methods - Contaminated Land
		5.3.5	Environmental Results Anticipated
		5.3.6	Monitoring Options
6	Air Module
	6.1	Regional and Local Air Management
		6.1.1	Issue
		6.1.2	Objective¹
		6.1.3	Policies
		6.1.4	Implementation Methods - Regional and Local Air Management
		6.1.5	Implementation Methods - Domestic Sources
		6.1.6	Implementation Methods - Transport Sources
		6.1.7	Implementation Methods - Effects of Land Use on Air Quality
		6.1.8	Standard Conditions for Permitted Activity Rules and Standards and Terms for Controlled and Restricted Discretionary Activity Rules
		6.1.9	Implementation Methods - General Rules
		6.1.10	Implementation Methods - Discharges of Contaminants from Abrasive Blasting
		6.1.11	Implementation Methods - Coating Processes (including Spray Painting), Diisocyanate and Organic Plasticiser Processes
		6.1.12	Implementation Methods - Combustion Processes for Fuel Conversion to Useful Heat, Electricity or Work
		6.1.13	Implementation Methods - Discharges to Air From Combustion Processes*
		6.1.14	Implementation Methods - Processing, Storage, Transfer and Flaring of Hydrocarbons and Biogas
		6.1.15	Implementation Methods - Managing Discharges to Air from Intensive Indoor Farming
		6.1.16	Implementation Methods - Mineral Extraction, Size Reduction, Screening and Storage
		6.1.17	Implementation Methods - Metal Processing
		6.1.18	Implementation Methods - Waste Management Process
		6.1.19	Implementation Methods - Other Activities
		6.1.20	Implementation Methods - Cooling Processes
		6.1.21	Environmental Results Anticipated
		6.1.22	Monitoring Options
	6.2	The Discharge of Agrichemicals into Air
		6.2.1	Issues
		6.2.2	Objective
		6.2.3	Policy
		6.2.4	Implementation Methods
		6.2.5	Environmental Results Anticipated
		6.2.6	Monitoring Options
		6.2.7	Spray Checklist
		6.2.8	Guidelines for Assessment and Enforcement
		6.2.9	Potential Spray Drift Hazard Chart¹
		6.2.10	Performance requirements for qualifications to apply agrichemicals
	6.3	Regional Ambient Air Quality Guidelines
	6.4	Guidelines for Assessment
		6.4.1	Guidelines for Assessing Odour
		6.4.2	Guidelines for Assessing Particulate Matter
7	Geothermal Module
	7.1	Clarification of the Relationship between the Water and Geothermal Modules
	7.2.1	Background and Explanation
	7.3	Issues and Objectives
	7.4	Policies
	7.5	General Non-Regulatory Implementation Methods
		7.5.1	Geothermal Characteristics Valued by Tangata Whenua
		7.5.2	Environmental Education
		7.5.3	Integrated Management
		7.5.4	Consistency of District Plans
		7.5.5	Geothermal Features in Protected Systems
		7.5.6	Guidelines for Applicants
	7.6	Regional Rules
		7.6.1	Takes and Discharges in Development Systems
		7.6.2	Takes and Discharges in Limited Development Systems
		7.6.3	Takes and Discharges in Research Systems
		7.6.4	Takes and Discharges in Protected Systems
		7.6.5	Takes and Discharges in Small Systems
		7.6.6	Surface Activities Affecting Significant Geothermal Features
	7.7	Environmental Results Anticipated
	7.8	Monitoring Options
	7.9	Maps of Geothermal Systems
		7.9.1	Development Geothermal Systems
		7.9.2	Limited Development Geothermal Systems
		7.9.3	Research Geothermal Systems
		7.9.4	Protected Geothermal Systems
	7.10	Maps of Significant Geothermal Features and Geothermal Water Features
		7.10.1	Significant Geothermal Features and Geothermal Water Features in Development Geothermal Systems
		7.10.2	Significant Geothermal Features and Geothermal Water Features in Limited Development Geothermal Systems
8	Information Requirements
	8.1	Assessment Criteria and Information Requirements
		8.1.1	General Information Requirements for all Applications
		8.1.2	Water and Geothermal
		8.1.3	Rivers and Lake Beds
		8.1.4	Land and Soil
		8.1.5	Air
		8.1.6	Geothermal
		8.1.7	Further Information
	Glossary of Terms

Download the plan in PDF format

Section			Download in PDF format

Chairman's Foreword			Chairman's Foreword and readers guide [PDF, 734 KB] 734 kb
Readers guide
	Introduction
	Structure of the plan
	Abbreviations and symbols
	Relationships between rules and resource consents
	Activity guide

1	Approaches to resource management		Chapter 1: Approaches to resource management [PDF, 156 KB] [PDF, 156 KB] 156 kb
	1.1	Introduction
	1.2	Approaches to resource management
	1.3	Monitoring the effectiveness of the plan
	1.4	Review of the plan
	1.5	Processes to address cross-boundary issues
	1.6	Responsibilities of resource users under the RMA [PDF, 75 KB]

2	Matters of significance to Maori		Chapter 2: Matters of significance to Maori [PDF, 75 KB] 76 kb
	2.1	Introduction
	2.2	Iwi in the Waikato region
	2.3	Tangata Whenua relationship with natural and physical resources

3	Water module		Chapter 3: Water module [PDF, 1.7 MB] 1728 kb
	3.1	Water resources
	3.2	Management of water resources
	3.3	Water takes
	3.4	Efficient use of water
	3.5	Discharges
	3.6	Damming and diverting
	3.7	Wetlands
	3.8	Drilling
	3.9	Non-point source discharges
	3.10	Lake Taupo Catchment

4	River and lake bed module		Chapter 4: River and lake bed module [PDF, 897 KB] 898kb
	4.1	River and lake bed management
	4.2	River and lake bed structures
	4.3	River and lake bed disturbances
	4.4	Lake Taupo mooring maps

5	Land and soil module		Chapter 5: Land and soil module [PDF, 550 KB] 551 kb
	5.1	Accelerated erosion
	5.2	Discharges onto or into land
	5.3	Contaminated land

6	Air module		Chapter 6: Air module [PDF, 299 KB] 299 kb
	6.1	Regional and local air management
	6.2	The discharge of agrichemicals into air
	6.3	Regional ambient air quality guidelines
	6.4	Guidelines for assessment

7	Geothermal module
	7.1	Clarification of the Relationship between the Water and Geothermal Modules	Chapter 7 Geothermal module [PDF, 14 MB] 14mb
	7.2	Background and explanation
	7.3	Issues and objectives
	7.4	Policies
	7.5	General non-regulatory implementation methods
	7.6	Regional rules
	7.7	Environmental results anticipated
	7.8	Monitoring Options
	7.9	Maps of Geothermal Systems
	7.10	Maps of significant geothermal features and geothermal water features

8	Information requirements		Chapter 8 Information requirements [PDF, 74 KB] 73 kb
	8.1	Assessment criteria and information requirements

Glossary			Glossary [PDF, 188 KB] 188 kb

Maps			Maps are also available to view at a scale of 1:50,000 at Waikato Regional Council's Hamilton Office (401 Grey Street, Hamilton East). Copies of maps, at any scale, can be purchased on request. Please contact us for further information.