Waka Kotahi carried out the first freshwater ecological surveys from late August to early September.

Environmental monitoring continues

Waka Kotahi has completed the first round of freshwater ecological surveys to measure water quality. This monitoring was undertaken by qualified and experienced freshwater ecologists at the identified permanent stream areas. We have also carried out our first marine surveys to monitor the conditions of macroinvertebrate and fish communities.

These surveys will help us plan and mitigate potential adverse effects on the freshwater and marine environments as a result of the construction works. Survey findings will also guide pre-construction baselines, design standard practices and inform appropriate construction methodologies.

We will come back for the next of our planned surveys in early 2021.

An aerial image over the forest area in the Penlink corridor

Drone survey

We have also completed a drone survey and identified potential habitat areas for banded rail, long-tail bats and lizards. In autumn next year we will carry out ground surveys to help us understand how densely populated these areas are. If significant numbers are found in locations affected by the Penlink corridor we will consider relocation programmes or scheduling our work in these areas outside of the breeding seasons.

Please visit nzta.govt.nz/penlink to check out a video clip of the drone survey.

Biodiversity offsetting

The potential effects on the environment have been considered in the design and location of the Penlink corridor. Where it has not been possible to completely avoid a direct effect on a community or sensitive environment, conditions have been proposed through the designation and resource consent processes like environmental offsetting.

The purpose of the offsetting is to counter-balance the unavoidable impacts that development activities have on biodiversity. It is a way to ensure that development causes no net loss, by enhancing the state of biodiversity in neighbouring areas.

Where possible, impacts of development on the environment that cannot be avoided, remedied or mitigated at one site (impact site) are 'offset' by enhancing a separate nearby site.

The overall goal is that the amount, condition and security of biodiversity is the same or better as a result. 

Offsets mean that future generations will continue to enjoy the benefits provided by biodiversity. Waka Kotahi is beginning to look at opportunities for offsetting and we will continue to update on progress.

Engaging with environmental interest groups

Last month Waka Kotahi met and provided an update to the representatives of Forest and Bird (Hibiscus and Bays branch), Long Bay Okura Great Park Society, Restore Hibiscus and Bays and Friends of Okura Bush. The participants had an opportunity to learn more about the project and shared insights on environmental issues in the area. We all agreed to collaborate to ensure our commitment to enhanced environmental outcomes. 

This meeting was the first of many planned for the community and environmental groups as this local knowledge will help us ensure that Penlink adds value to the community.

The Penlink project team want to hear from you if you have any ideas or issues that we should know about.  See below for details on how to contact us.

More information

For more information on the Penlink project, contact us at penlink@nzta.govt.nz

Or visit our website www.nzta.govt.nz/penlink