Auckland’s erosion and sediment control guidance recognised with RMLA award
RMLA is pleased to announce that Auckland Council has received the 2026 RMLA Technical Documentation Award for its Erosion and Sediment Control Guideline for Land-Disturbing Activities in the Auckland Region (GD05).
Developed by Auckland Council in collaboration with Leersnyder Associates Ltd and Southern Skies Environmental Ltd, GD05 draws on the expertise and experience of technical specialists, industry practitioners and Mana Whenua.
The project team included Branko Veljanovski, Head of Engineering and Technical Services, Auckland Council; Hugh Leersnyder, Project Lead, Leersnyder Associates; Campbell Stewart and Michael Parsonson, SouthernSkies Environmental and Clare Feeney, Environmental Communications alongside many others who contributed their knowledge and practical experience to the development of the guidance.
The team set out to produce guidance that was technically robust, practical and accessible for the people who use it. GD05 supports practitioners and regulatory staff managing erosion and sediment from land-disturbing activities, with practical tools, illustrations and quality checklists designed to improve consistency in design, implementation and regulatory assessment. Hugh Leersnyder reflects:
“We are honoured to receive this prestigious award. Our review of GD05 has gone beyond just a technical update. Through a highly collaborative approach we have received valuable insights from industry, regulators and communities on how we can implement GD05 more effectively. Communication, engagement and training to raise industry and regulator capability are at the heart of further reducing the sediment discharges from earthworks. This award has recognised the value in taking a holistic approach to creating and implementing technical guidance.”
A key strength of the project was the way it brought together different forms of knowledge and experience. Input from technical experts, practitioners and Mana Whenua helped ensure the updated GD05 incorporated current technical knowledge, practical experience and mātauranga Māori.
Although developed for Auckland, GD05 is also being adopted and drawn on beyond the region. Its wider use demonstrates the value of practical, well-designed technical guidance that can support more consistent practice and better environmental outcomes across the resource management sector.
RMLA congratulates Auckland Council, Leersnyder Associates Ltd, Southern Skies Environmental Ltd and everyone involved in developing GD05 on this well-deserved recognition.
