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An iwi-backed mussel farm near Whangaroa has won consent.
Two independent commissioners say the 94-hectare farm off Stephenson Island will bring significant economic benefits to the Far North.
Westpac Mussels Distributors had asked the Northland Regional Council for resource consents for a 125ha farm off the island in Whangaroa Bay.
The commissioners recommended modifications to deal with the adverse affects the proposal could have on the outstanding natural character of nearby Cone Island, the natural character of the margin of Stephenson Island, small boat anchoring and recreational and Māori customary fishing.
They said the plan was supported by the Maori owners of Stephenson Island, the Ririwha Ahu Whenua Trust.
Opponents have 15 working days to appeal the decision to the Environment Court.
He pāmu kūtai kei te kōrerohia
Kua whakaaetia te hiahia ō ētahi ō ngā iwi ō Whangaroa kia whakatūria e rātou he pāmu kūtai ki te rohe.
Hei tā ngā kaikomihana tokorua i arotake i te hiahia nei, ka whai hua te hiku ō te ika whānui i tēnei pāmu kūtai ka whakatūria ki te moana e karapoti ana i te moutere ō Stephenson i te whanga ō Whangaroa.
Tekau mā rima rā e toe ana ki te hunga whakahē i te pāmu nei, ki te tapae i wā rātou kōrero ki te mua i te Kōti Taiao.
Copyright © 2013, Uma Broadcasting Ltd
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