A newly published report on climate change risks in Kāpiti recommends that the district create an adaptation plan to tackle climate-related challenges.
According to RNZ’s report, the Takutai Kāpiti report, commissioned in 2021, follows a 2012 initiative by the council to add erosion warnings to Land Information Memorandums (LIMs) for properties. This move faced legal challenges from residents who argued that the estimates of sea level rise and coastal erosion were exaggerated and misleading. Initially, the courts ruled in favour of the council.
However, an independent panel later determined that the scientific basis was insufficient, leading to the removal of these warnings from LIMs.
The report, led by former Prime Minister Jim Bolger, focuses on “dynamic adaptive pathways” for the coastal areas of the region. These pathways offer various options for community response to climate risks in 20 areas along the Kāpiti Coast.
The options include:
Additionally, the report recommends developing a Kāpiti Coastal Adaptation Plan, ensuring continuous community consultation, and conducting reviews of the pathways every 10 years. It also advises against new developments in high-risk areas and suggests planning for strategic retreats when necessary.
Kāpiti District Council staff are urged to address the report’s findings with relevant authorities. They also recommend sharing the report with the Insurance Council of New Zealand (ICNZ) to seek feedback on the insurance implications.
The ICNZ is advocating for stronger natural hazard safeguards in the Fast-Track Approvals Bill.
It stressed the importance of integrating protections against natural hazards, such as flooding, into development projects.
Chief executive Kris Faafoi acknowledged the bill’s aim to expedite infrastructure projects but emphasised the need to avoid increasing risks to communities.
“We acknowledge the purpose of the Fast-Tack Approvals Bill to deliver faster infrastructure and development projects. We especially support the establishment of a fast-track pathway for projects that bolster adaptation, resilience, and recovery from natural hazards,” he said.
He warned that increasing risks could render insurance unaffordable or unavailable, impacting property values and the housing market, and placing greater pressure on the government to provide protection or compensation.
