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1. To preserve the natural character of the coastal environment and to protect it from inappropriate subdivision, use, and development:
1. avoid adverse effects of activities on natural character in areas of the coastal environment with outstanding natural character; and
2. avoid significant adverse effects and avoid, remedy or mitigate other adverse effects of activities on natural character in all other areas of the coastal environment; including by:
3. assessing the natural character of the coastal environment of the region or district, by mapping or otherwise identifying at least areas of high natural character; and
4. ensuring that regional policy statements, and plans, identify areas where preserving natural character requires objectives, policies and rules, and include those provisions.
2. Recognise that natural character is not the same as natural features and landscapes or amenity values and may include matters such as:
1. natural elements, processes and patterns;
2. biophysical, ecological, geological and geomorphological aspects;
3. natural landforms such as headlands, peninsulas, cliffs, dunes, wetlands, reefs, freshwater springs and surf breaks;
4. the natural movement of water and sediment;
5. the natural darkness of the night sky;
6. places or areas that are wild or scenic;
7. a range of natural character from pristine to modified; and
8. experiential attributes, including the sounds and smell of the sea; and their context or setting.

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