LANDSCAPE AREAS

Parkland Landscape

The open parkland character of Caroline Bay will be maintained and enhanced. The existing central open space will remain. This grass area behind the dunes will be raised in level to improve drainage and topsoil depth for tree and grass growth.

As a general principle existing trees will be retained where possible. Additional tree planting in clusters, avenues and as single feature specimens will occur. Examples of appropriate tree species will include:

• Ngaio - Myoporum laetum
• Kanuka - Kunzea ericoides
• Southern Rata - Metrosideros umbellata
• Totara - Podocarpus totara
• Karaka - Corynocarpus laevigatus
• Ribbonwood - Plagianthus regius
• Kowhai - Sophora microphylla
• Lemonwood/tarata - Pittosporum eugenoides
• Cabbage tree/ti kouka - Cordyline australis
• Titoki - Alectryon excelsus
  

Sand Dune Landscape

The existing sand dunes will be enhanced and revegetated with native pingao and associated plant species. This will help stabilise the dunes from wind erosion and will contribute both ecologically and aesthetically to Caroline Bay.

The edge between the dunes and the parkland grass areas will be more clearly defined by creating a grass area beyond the foot of the existing dunes and, in places, allowing views through the dunes to the beach from the parkland. Small areas of grass will be established within dune gullies along the beach and on dune tops for picnic sites. The landward edge resulting could be described as not unlike the edge between a fairway and the "rough" area in a golf course. The levels of the landward area behind the dunes will be increased to avoid flooding and to improve its potential for passive recreation and enhancements. The sand for these earthworks and enhancements will come from the beach, which is continuing to grow annually. This strategy will assist in maintaining the beach in its present location for a number of years.

Flax Wetland

In the eastern end of the site it is proposed that a flax wetland area be established at the outlet of Whales Creek. This feature will represent the early history of natural vegetation and character in the Caroline Bay vicinity. This will add diversity and interest to the Caroline Bay landscape. The flax wetland will utilise the existing stream outlet as well as providing a retention pond area for on site storm water. Tidal fluctuation will also contribute to the water of the wetland.