New rules prohibit scattering ashes of loved ones on Coromandel reserves

The ability to scatter the ashes of a loved one on a favourite beach or reserve could be prohibited under proposals in the Thames-Coromandel District Council's review. Photo / File

The ability to scatter the ashes of a loved one on a favourite beach or reserve will be prohibited outside of two approved cemetery locations, under proposals in the Thames-Coromandel District Council's review of how people can use public reserves.

Instances where people have left the ashes in a box, or scattered on a dewy morning or rainy day and found clumped together rather than blown away are among the concerns cited by Council staff.

"When you have got human remains, the actions of the worker who might find them are disrespectful for the remains, and the actions of the person dumping the ashes are disrespectful for the worker or site visitor," says TCDC Community Facilities Manager Derek Thompson.

"The scattering of ashes from cremation and the burial of placenta are deeply significant experiences for family and friends. However, it can be a concern for people using or working on a reserve to realise they may have inadvertently disturbed such remains."

Mr Thompson said the spreading of ashes into water or areas of food gathering — such as shorelines where shellfish are collected — is a culturally insensitive practice to most people and in partcilar to Māori.

Under the proposed new policy no charge would be levied to scatter ashes on a reserve but they would have to use one of two approved locations with written approval from the council. Consultation is open now until 4pm Friday 18 January.

Mr Thompson said the Council had not had any complaints about scattered ashes.

However it was following other councils and putting a policy in place while reserve management plans are under review. The review of rules for Tairua Pauanui, Mercury Bay and Whangamatā area will begin in early next year while rules for Thames,Whangamatā and Mercury Bay areas are likely to be reviewed in mid-2019.

Drone flying, horse riding, commercial operators who use beaches and reserves for boat taxis, kayaking, surf lessons and weddings are among other pressures that the Council is seeking feedback on.

The primary role of reserves is to provide walking, running, picnicking and informal games.

In Matarangi, Hilton Brown submitted, saying use of public facilities by commercial operators drove families away and affected locals' enjoyment.

"The beaches are for everyone. In some cases it can completely wipe out enjoyment for people on the beach."

What's proposed:

* The scattering or placement of ashes from cremation and the burial of placenta in reserves is prohibited, except with prior written approval from Council.

* Horses may only be ridden on reserves where there are areas specifically designated for horses.

* Weddings, wedding photography and private ceremonies may be allowed on reserves subject to permission from Council but must not restrict other visitors from the reserve nor block access or pathways.

* Drone flyers must not take photographs of other people without their prior approval; must not operate over a sports field in use by others, within 20m of sensitive wildlife habitats or nesting or roosting birds.