Our team of seasoned scientists bring extensive expertise in freshwater, estuarine, and coastal marine ecology to the resource consenting process. Whether assisting applicants or providing technical review services for regional councils, we support every stage of consenting. Our services span the design and implementation of ecological investigations, data analysis, and assessment of environmental effects (AEE) reporting. We also provide expert witness evidence, expert caucusing, hearing attendance, and provide guidance in the development of resource consent conditions. With our in-house laboratory for processing invertebrate samples from freshwater, estuary, and coastal marine environments, we offer a complete, one-stop solution for projects that require high-quality ecological data.
Our extensive resource consenting experience covers diverse activities, from hydropower generation and water takes to infrastructure projects like roads, bridges, cycleways, seawalls, and culverts, as well as stormwater and wastewater management, restoration initiatives, sediment removal, and forestry. For over a decade, we have also provided trusted resource consent review services to regional councils, encompassing projects such as fish passage remediation, waterway diversions and reclamation, stormwater and wastewater discharges, flood and erosion control, urban developments, marine farming, and infrastructure development. With EOS Ecology, our clients benefit from our technical expertise, rigorous ecological insights, and a commitment to supporting sustainable project outcomes.
Akaroa Treated Wastewater Irrigation: Assessing Ecological Impacts on Freshwater and Estuary SystemsChristchurch City Council & Stantec
The Akaroa Treated Wastewater Irrigation Scheme (ATWIS) proposes an alternative approach to wastewater management by shifting from direct discharge into Akaroa Harbour to using treated wastewater for irrigating native vegetation. Commissioned by Stantec for Christchurch City Council, EOS Ecology assessed the ecological impacts on local freshwater streams and intertidal bays, employing extensive water quality monitoring and ecological surveys to establish baseline conditions and ecological values. Our work ensured that local freshwater and estuarine ecosystems were carefully evaluated, informing decisions that align with environmental standards.
Our assessments and recommendations, developed in close collaboration with engineers, planners, and catchment modellers, provided guidance on nutrient levels to minimize potential impacts on Akaroa Harbour and surrounding waterways. These findings contributed to a comprehensive evaluation of multiple irrigation scenarios, with our AEE reports offering critical insights for resource consent. In response to updated climate data and project scope adjustments, we supplied expert feedback to support the project’s adaptive design, reinforcing ATWIS’s alignment with sustainable and ecologically sound wastewater management practices. Our scientists are presenting their expert evidence at resource consent hearings that are planned for late 2024.
A New Path Forward: Assessing the Effects of the Eastern Bays Shared Path Project on the Ecology of Wellington HarbourHutt City Council & Stantec
Commissioned by Hutt City Council, EOS Ecology played a central role in assessing ecological impacts for the Eastern Bays Shared Path Project, which aimed to improve coastal safety and access along a 4.4 km seawall in Wellington Harbour. Our team conducted comprehensive ecological investigations, from habitat mapping and intertidal surveys to GIS analysis, delivering robust AEE reports that addressed potential environmental impacts related to seawall construction, beach renourishment, and fish passage. Working with engineers, hydrologists, and planners, we contributed to a multi-criteria assessment, ensuring that ecological considerations informed design options and risk assessments.
EOS Ecology also developed a Seawall and Revetment Habitat Plan introducing features such as textured surfaces and rock pools to boost intertidal habitat quality and biodiversity within the structures. Our expert witness evidence presented at resource consent hearings led to a successful consenting process, and receiving positive feedback from Greater Wellington Regional Council. As noted by Dr. Megan Oliver of Greater Wellington Regional Council, the work by the EOS team has “set the standard for similar projects where shoreline armouring cannot be avoided.” Our work not only improves coastal resilience but also fosters community connection with the Eastern Bays’ unique ecosystems.
