3.8 Wilderness areas, Outstanding scenery and Geological features WILDERNESS AREAS The remaining areas of wilderness on the margins of the Lake provide unique habitat and contribute to the scenic qualities. Wilderness areas have open space and are remote, uncrowded, natural and tranquil. OUTSTANDING SCENERY The views and vistas of Lake Taupo are enhanced by the many foreshore reserves, areas of native and introduced vegetation, topography of the Lake margins and the surrounding hills and mountains. The lack of human-made eyesores or prominent structures also contributes to the scenic qualities of the area. The unique features contribute to the high level of natural character.
Environmental values
GEOLOGICAL FEATURES The many interesting and scenic geological features of the Lake and its surrounding catchment contribute to the beauty of the area and to recreational enjoyment.
50
What does the community want to achieve? • • • • •
There is no net loss of wilderness areas that are remote, uncrowded, natural and tranquil Nuisance weeds and pests are reduced in the catchment Wilderness areas are managed to protect their environmental values and the qualities that make them special places Views, vistas and natural character are maintained and protected from inappropriate development Geological features are protected from inappropriate development.
What are the main threats to Wilderness areas, Outstanding scenery and Geological features? •
Water pollution: from sediment loading (ash) from large volcanic eruption.
•
Loss of habitat: • animal and plant pests threaten native vegetation (competition) • introducing new species affects ecological processes such as food web and distribution of species • urbanisation increases invasive plant species destruction of natural areas.
•
Quality of life impacts: • incremental land change and increasing urbanisation (such as inappropriate sites for new subdivision and over-development of Taupo lakefront) • restrictions to legal access • visual and noise pollution • destruction of unique geological features (especially geothermal springs) • overcrowding and congestion.
