Submission on PC6 Audible Bird Scaring Devices

The NZKGI/HortNZ Submission on Plan Change 6 argues that the proposed Whakatāne District Council rules on audible bird‑scaring devices are unnecessarily restrictive, lack robust evidence, and would significantly hinder horticultural production – particularly kiwifruit – on the district’s highly productive land. The submission highlights that bird scarers are essential, seasonal tools for protecting crops during budbreak, yet PC6 proposes noise limits and setback distances far more stringent than neighbouring councils, effectively forcing most growers into consent processes. NZKGI and HortNZ contend that the plan change does not give effect to regional policy on rural production or reverse sensitivity, fails to properly assess alternatives such as education and compliance with existing rules, and appears driven by complaints rather than substantiated analysis. They request that PC6 be withdrawn, existing provisions retained, and a joint education‑and‑compliance programme developed ahead of any future policy review.