Every special place adds something to the overall character of the District. Some places have extra protections to help preserve the uniqueness of the environment, the area’s history, or provide people with access to the outdoors. Here are some of the ways we look after these place with specific provisions.

Heritage includes a broad range of features that are derived from archaeological, architectural, cultural, historic, scientific, and technological qualities. They include sites of significance to Māori, historic sites, structures, places and areas, as well as archaeological sites.

Heritage resources have lasting value and can be appreciated in their own right. They teach us about the past and the cultures of those who came before us. They provide us with a context for community identity and provides evidence of the continuity between the past, present and future.

Heritage can be easily damaged or destroyed and the resulting loss of values are usually irretrievable. Heritage needs to be considered during the development and redevelopment of sites and areas. We will be working with our communities to learn more about the heritage values and sites you think should be protected as we create the Tasman Environment Plan.

Reserves and open spaces have multiple purposes. These include a contribution towards the maintenance of cultural and heritage values, recreation, environmental and scenic qualities, public access, stormwater management, restoration opportunities for biodiversity and they provide open spaces.

The District is growing, and this will put more pressure on the use of reserves and open space. Development, improvement and protection of the reserve and open space network is important.

There are currently 575 protected trees throughout the Tasman District.

The protection of special trees valued by the community is important because they contribute to the attractiveness of our environment and can have historic and/or botanical significance. Trees are often highly valued as local landmarks or living monuments. Protected trees are valued both in urban and in rural areas, and a level of protection for many trees is essential as they are long lived and cannot be replaced within human timescales.

Outstanding Natural Landscapes and Features are required to be protected under the Resource Management Act. This will provide extra protection for these extraordinary places. The District’s draft Outstanding Natural Landscapes and Features have been identified, mapped, and tested with landowners. This work has also involved discussions with local iwi.

There are other ways that land is protected in Tasman, including the vast amount of land that is covered by DOC estate.