Cox's Creek improvement project

Background | Options assessment | Proposed works | Expected benefits

Expected benefits

Ponding of stagnant water near
Parawai Crescent.

Contaminated sediments that have accumulated in the creek over the years, will be removed.
Oxygen levels in the water will be raised - improving the creek's ecological potential.
A decrease in objectionable odours associated with existing conditions.
Removing weeds species and planting native vegetation will improve the local environment.
The overall aesthetic value of Cox's Creek will be enhanced.

Ecology of Cox's Creek

Despite the pollution and odour problems within Cox's Creek, the area retains reasonable ecological values. For this reason, we will undertake ecological impact assessments.

Provided a suitable works methodology and appropriate monitoring is adopted, it is expected that adverse impacts on ecological values during construction will be limited. Long term, the proposal will enhance ecological habitats by improving water quality and removing polluted material.

Cultural values

There are a number of archaeological and Maori heritage sites near the proposed works. Therefore, an archaeological investigation was undertaken. It was found that the proposal would have no impact on known and recorded archaeological sites in and around Cox's Bay Reserve, and that it is unlikely that further evidence will be discovered during the works.

Public walkway near the creek.

Recreational values

Whilst Cox's Creek itself has minor recreational value, the surrounding reserve contains fitness track activity stations and boardwalks along the creek edge which are regularly used by the community. The adjacent park contains sports fields utilised for organised and informal recreation.

Access to some of these facilities will be disrupted while the works take place. This will include temporary restrictions and walkway detours in certain areas of the reserve. These restrictions and detours will be well sign-posted and staged so that as much of the park as possible is available to the public during the works. The works will avoid the formal sports fields. Once completed, there will be no overall change to park access or facilities.