Dialogue has undertaken a wide range of social impact assessments over the last 25 years.  Peter Phillips has also undertaken peer reviews and acted as an expert witness in RMA proceedings on a number of roading projects undertaken by other companies.   Aspects of our approach are discussed here.  A selection of projects includes:

Kerikeri Irrigation Development

The social impact assessment was undertaken as part of a retrospective analysis of the impact of the development of irrigation in Kerikeri district for the Ministry of Works and Development in 1984.  The research involved interviews, discussion groups, and a survey.

All content copyright © Dialogue Consultants Ltd.

Auckland Area Sewerage Study Stage 2: Social Appraisal

An initial appraisal of the potential social impacts of the various options for the development of the sewerage system was undertaken as part of the background work for Stage 2.  This work provided an input into the evaluation of the options by the Study team and the basis for future assessments in the EIA prepared in Stage 3 of the project.

Eastern Corridor Strategy Study, Stage 1 

An analysis of the social and cultural effects of three functional scenarios (local, sub-regional and regional) for Auckland’s Eastern Corridor from the Auckland CBD to Botany Downs.  Research included key informant interviews and workshops with stakeholder groups and factor analysis. Iwi Maori were consulted in parallel ....More>>

SH1 Albany to Puhoi Realignment (ALPURT)

The social impact assessment of the realignment of State Highway 1 north of Greville Road, Albany was a major  factor in the decision to abandon the designation around Orewa ending at Hatfields Beach and seek a new, more direct route to Puhoi.  The balance of effects favoured a new route despite of the equity issues involved....More>>

Waitakere Balefill: Assessment of Environmental Effects

Assessment of social impacts of a proposed extension to the operating life of the Waitakere Balefill (a type of landfill using pre-tied bales) at Swanson through analysis of Census data, review of previous research, and consultations with the local community.  A parallel process was undertaken with Tangata Whenua.

Whangaparaoa Access Assessment of Environmental Effects

The AEE was a  substantial review of the long term access options for the Whangaparaoa Peninsula including road widening, bridging, bus, and ferry options.  The social impact assessment included inputs from local focus groups, and an area-wide plenary group.  Planning commissioners approved a bridge crossing which has yet to be built.

Huntly West Mine Environmental Impact Assessment

The Huntly West Mine was to be developed by longwall mining threatening extensive land subsidence and the return of an area developed into farming over the previous 60 years into swamp.   Dialogue’s research included discussion groups, interviews and public meetings in assessing the social impacts of the proposed mine development.

Transpower North Island Grid Upgrade Project

The social impact assessment for the new transmission lines from Whakamaru to South Auckland was undertaken as an on-going process providing inputs into route selection and a range of other aspects of the project.  This was eventually consolidated into a social impact assessment report on the cable routes and overhead lines....More>>

Kamo Bypass Expert Evidence on Social Impacts  

The Kamo by-pass was a major initiative by Transit New Zealand to relieve the congestion in Kamo along State Highway 1.  Two social impact assessments were prepared providing very different conclusions on the social effects of the proposal. Peter Phillips was retained by Transit to provide expert evidence arbitrating between the two reports.

Puhoi to Wellsford Road of National Significance

One of seven roads of national significance around the country, the Puhoi to Wellsford realignment of SH1 represents a significant investment in improving the efficiency and safety of the main link between Auckland and Northland.  An SIA has been undertaken as part of preparation of a Scheme Assessment Report and AEE.

Mens Prison at Wiri Proposal: Board of Inquiry

The Department of Corrections applied to change the existing Auckland Region Women's Corrections Facility designation in the Manukau City District Plan in order to provide for the establishment of a men’s prison on adjoining land.  Peter Phillips provided expert evidence to the Board of Inquiry in May 2011.

Puketoi Wind Farm Proposal

Mighty River Power (MRP) has proposed a wind farm on the Puketoi Range in Tararua District.  The outcome of the social impact assessment  has been strongly influenced by the participatory approach adopted by MRP to the development of the wind farm and its associated 39km transmission line.

Beachlands Village Business Centre

Manukau City Council developed Plan Change 30 to provide long-term certainty for the growth of Beachlands.  The SIA assessed the potential effects of the Progressive Enterprises’ proposed commercial area (PC30A) which is designed to service growth in the wider Beachlands-Maraetai area, in conjunction with the existing local shops.