The instability areas shown on the planning maps generally have the following characteristics:

• land inventory map class VI and above
• land inventory map slopes E, F, G (>20o)
• land inventory map erosion severity 2 and above (moderate and above) including active stream bank erosion
• tongues of slump debris.

In the above where use, development or subdivision is proposed a geotechnical assessment may be required in accordance with Rule 1.2.2 (vi).

Explanation

The District contains a number of areas which are identified as susceptible to flooding. The flood hazard line was sourced from the Transitional District Plan which identifies the Waihou Valley Scheme and the Piako River Scheme. Additional information was sought from Environment Waikato to further define flood lines. The Beca Carter Hollings & Ferner flood and land instability report for Te Aroha (1988) was also used. Other small pockets have been shown where it is known the land floods on a regular basis. Flooding can be a threat to the lives of people and can cause damage to property. In areas where flooding is known to occur it is not always necessary to prohibit buildings and structures if they are designed so that the adverse effects of flooding are avoided. The primary means of avoiding adverse effects is to construct floor levels above the known flood levels on the property in question.

Overland flow paths of tributary streams can carry significant volumes of water during times of heavy rain and flooding. Buildings and structures located in these flow paths can be significantly damaged during times of heavy flow. The measures above are measures which can be taken to minimise potential damage to the building in the flowpath.

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