How Auckland's Planning Documents Differ: The Hauraki Gulf Islands Plan and the Auckland Unitary Plan
Welcome to our guide on understanding the differences between the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP) and the Hauraki Gulf Islands District Plan (HGI Plan).
The AUP is a comprehensive district, regional and coastal that guides the use of Auckland’s natural and physical resources, including land development. It determines what can be built and where, how to create a higher quality and more compact Auckland, how to provide for rural activities, and how to maintain the marine environment.
The AUP applies throughout Auckland, but only the regional and coastal components apply to the Hauraki Gulf Islands.
On the other hand, the HGI Plan is a separate document that specifically addresses the resource management issues facing the islands of the Hauraki Gulf. This plan sets out a framework to manage the islands’ physical and natural resources in a sustainable way. It affects what people can and cannot do with their properties.
In this guide, we will delve deeper into the specifics of each plan, highlighting their unique features and the implications they have on the development and conservation of Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf Islands. It is common for a proposal to require resource consent under both the HGI Plan and the AUP.
CoLab Planning understands the complexities and nuances of both the HGI Plan and the AUP.
Our experience in dealing with these planning documents allows us to offer expert guidance to gain the resource consents you need to get your project moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
I have a property on Waiheke or the Gulf Islands. How do I find my zone?
To find the zoning of your property on Waiheke or the Gulf Islands, you can use the Auckland Council's GeoMaps tool available on their website. This interactive tool allows you to search for your property by address and view the zoning information under the Hauraki Gulf Islands District Plan or the Auckland Unitary Plan. We have made a step-by-step guide for you here.
What are the zones on Waiheke and the Hauraki Gulf Islands?
The zones on Waiheke and the Hauraki Gulf Islands include residential, rural, commercial, and conservation zones among others. These zones dictate the types of activities and developments allowed. For example, residential zones usually permit housing, while conservation zones are focused on preserving natural landscapes and ecosystems. The specific rules and permitted activities can vary significantly between zones – or ‘land units’ as they are referred to in Hauraki Gulf Islands District Plan. Common residential land units on the islands include ‘Residential 1 – Traditional Residential’ and ‘Residential 2 – Bush Residential’.
How do I read the Hauraki Gulf Islands Planning Maps?
Reading the Hauraki Gulf Islands Maps involves understanding the symbols, legends, and zoning designations used to represent different land uses and rules. Each colour or symbol corresponds to a specific zone or environmental feature, such as residential areas, conservation zones, or commercial spaces. It's important to familiarize yourself with the legend on the map, which explains what each symbol or colour means. We have made a step-by-step guide for you here.
What are some common consents needed on Waiheke and the Hauraki Gulf Islands?
Common consents needed on the Hauraki Gulf Islands include resource consents for land use and subdivision, building consents for construction or alteration of structures, and consents for any activities that might impact the coastal or marine environment. Due to the unique environmental characteristics, activities that might not require consents on the mainland could necessitate them on the islands. Consents are frequently required to construct new buildings, remove trees and vegetation, and for earthworks.
Why do I need consents under the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP)?
A: In short, the Auckland Unitary Plan (AUP) and Hauraki Gulf Islands District Plan cover different environmental issues. The AUP deals with ‘regional planning matters’ such wastewater discharges, coastal works, air discharges, and stormwater discharge. The Hauraki Gulf Islands District Plan deals with ‘district planning matters’, such as the size and location of buildings, vegetation clearance and earthworks. Auckland Council allows you to bundle your applications for regional and district resource consents for simultaneous consideration.
What areas of Auckland are affected by the Hauraki Gulf Islands Plan?
The Hauraki Gulf Islands Plan specifically affects the islands within the Hauraki Gulf, including Waiheke Island, Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island), Rakino, and several smaller islands. It does not apply to the mainland parts of Auckland or Kawau Island. This plan addresses the unique resource management issues of the Gulf Islands, focusing on preserving their natural landscapes, biodiversity, and cultural heritage while managing development in a sustainable manner.
Who can I contact if I want to know more?
If you have any further questions or would like more information, please feel free to contact us. We offer a free 30-minute consultation if you have questions as to what you can do with your property under the Hauraki Gulf Islands Plan.