This file has been supplied with the understanding that consideration will be given to the appropriateness of any further application of this data, based on the following description.

An area shall be considered a Significant Indigenous Biodiversity Area A or B if it is consistent with the criteria and factors for Significant Indigenous Biodiversity Areas outlined in Table 1 from Table 11A-1 of the operative Waikato Regional Policy Statement 2016. These criteria have been used to determine the SIBAs listed in Table 2 and will be used to assess proposed future additions to the schedule. Significant Indigenous Biodiversity Areas are categorised in accordance with NZCPS Policy 11 and RPS Policy 11 as follows:

Significant Indigenous Biodiversity Areas – A (SIBA-A): Areas which, due to their physical form, scale or inherent indigenous biodiversity values, are regionally significant because of their: rarity; value to Threatened species; provision of critical habitat and/or vulnerable ecosystem types; and/or their disproportionate contribution to broader ecological functions and values. They are also considered to be vulnerable to any adverse effects of anthropogenic activities.

Significant Indigenous Biodiversity Areas – B (SIBA-B): Areas which, due to their physical form, scale or inherent biodiversity values, are regionally significant because of their: predominance of native vegetation; provision of indigenous habitat and/or vulnerable ecosystem types that also form important migratory pathways or ecological corridors in the coastal environment. They are considered more resilient ecosystem types, or ecosystem types that are widespread throughout the region.

This is version 10 and has been modified by WRC since the BECA supply on the 27th April 2023.