Agenda of Komiti Māori - Monday, 2 November 2020

Komiti Māori Minutes

25 August 2020

Komiti Māori

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing: Tuesday 25 August 2020, 9.30 am

Venue: via Zoom (Audio Visual Meeting), Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Virtual Meeting Room

Heamana

Chairperson: Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti (Host-Chair)

Ngā Kopounga

Members: Cr Matemoana McDonald (Komiti Māori Chair)

Cr Bill Clark

Cr Stacey Rose

Cr Paula Thompson

Cr Lyall Thurston

Cr Te Taru White

In Attendance: Bay of Plenty Regional Council: Cr Kevin Winters, Fiona McTavish – Chief Executive, Namouta Poutasi – General Manager Strategy & Science, Chris Ingle – General Manager Integrated Catchments, Kataraina O’Brien – Kaiwhakaruru, Shari Kameta – Committee Advisor, Anaru Vercoe – Strategic Engagement Manager, Sandy Hohepa, Rawiri Bhana – Māori Policy Advisors, Clarke Koopu – Senior Advisor (Treaty), Ashleigh Grant – Kaikarere (Communications Partner), Nathan Capper – Pou Ngaio (Technical/Cultural), Reuben Gardiner – Senior Planner (Water Policy), Ruakiri Fairhall – Kaiwhakamanawa, Stephen Lamb – Environmental Strategy Manager, Annika Lane – Acting Regional Development Manager

External Presenters/Representatives: Ora Barlow-Tukaki – Hikarukutai Hapū representative, Michal Akurangi – Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa, Ian Morton, Karl Graydon – Toi EDA, Lloyd Tamarapa, Awhina Ngutuere – Toi Kai Rawa, Simon Stokes, Eddie Sykes - Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa, Karla Kereopa - Ministry for the Environment

He Toka Tumoana Recipients: Harina Rupapera, Waka Paul, Alethea Hikuroa, Siobhan Nuri, Invited Guests/Iwi Leaders: Wira Gardiner, Arapeta Tahana, Te Waiti Rangiwai, Charlie Tawhiao, Geoff Rice, Maru Tapsell, Ellen Tamati, Merehira Savage

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies: Chairman Doug Leeder (Ex-Officio)

1. Opening Prayer
Karakia Whakatuwhera

A karakia was provided by Cr Te Taru White.

2. Host Chair to Preside
Ko te Māngai ā-Rohe te Heamana

Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti presided as the Host Chair.

3. Mihi/Welcome

Host-Chair Cr Iti welcomed councillors, presenters, invited guests and staff to the hui.

4. Apologies
Ngā Hōnea

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Accepts the apology from Chairman (Ex-Officio) Doug Leeder tendered at the meeting.

Rose/Clark

CARRIED

5. Order of Business
Raupapa o Ngā Take

Withdrawal of Item 8.3, Central North Island Iwi Management Ltd

The Host Chair advised that Item 8.3, Central North Island Iwi Management Ltd was withdrawn from the agenda, as the presenter was unable to attend the meeting to present.

6. Declaration of Conflicts of Interest
Whakapuakanga o Ngā Take Whai Taha-Rua

None declared.

7. Minutes
Ngā Meneti

Minutes to be Confirmed
Ngā Meneti a Ngā Komiti

7.1

Komiti Maori Minutes - 30 June 2020

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Confirms the Komiti Maori Minutes - 30 June 2020.

Rose/McDonald

CARRIED

8. Presentations
Whakaaturanga

8.1

Raukūmara Pae Maunga Project

Presentation: Raukumara Pae Maunga Project: Objective ID A3622246

Presented by: Ora Barlow-Tukaki, Hikarukutai Hapu Representative

Key Points:

· Outlined the Project’s land coverage, historical occupancy by Ngāti Porou and Te Whānau a Apanui iwi, and shared whakapapa of the whenua with Ngāi Tai, Whakatōhea and Te Whānau a Mahaki.

· Impetus for the Project had been driven by the large-scale destruction of the environment from pest animals.

· No large scale pest control had occurred for over 30 years.

· Secondary impacts from vegetation loss had resulted in some endemic species becoming endangered or extinct, damage to soil health, water quality, aquatic life, and increased sedimentation and erosion.

· The Project had involved 2-3 years of Iwi wānanga and had submitted a bid to the Crown in February 2020, securing $34.5 million of Crown funding over four years, as part of the Government’s Jobs for Nature programme.

· The project had been endorsed by Ngāti Porou, Te Whānau a Apanui, Hapū Chairs, land blocks, Te Papa Atawhai, Forest & Bird, Kiwis for Kiwi, Regional Council, and a recent partnership with NIWA.

· Iwi were front and centre to the Project. Key goals were to: restore the environment, reconnect people to habitat and place, build local capacity and involve the community.

· Project timeline between August 2020-March 2021 would involve the setup of an Establishment Group, Governance partnership and operational model and would comprise a multi-generational restoration plan involving: 23 FTEs and 18 seasonal jobs to be implemented by the beginning of 2022, and NIWA’s Carbon Watch research programme to measure carbon recovery, track climate change indicators, and monitor forest restoration.

· Current funding would not be sufficient to restore 35 years of damage.

· Engaging whanau and the community to build taiao capacity towards a community workforce would be key.

· Sought consideration from Regional Council of how it may wish to invest in the whenua and people.

In Response to Questions:

· Investment from the Regional Council on the same par as the Kaimai-Mamaku ranges would be considered as a reasonable contribution.

· Welcomed a meeting and site visit between Council and Iwi/hapū to understand what projects and investment may resonate with Council.

· Plans had been established with the three local kura and kohanga reo to form an environmental rangers rōpu, incorporate a taiao curriculum and hold a series of symposiums.

· The Project would be submitting to Council’s Long Term Plan to seek funding investment.

· Success would require strengthening relationships with all those who had a connection with the ranges through whakapapa, whenua, water and its people.

Key Points - Members:

· Commended the quality of the presentation and congratulated Iwi/hapū in securing Crown funding to support the project.

· Discussion on potential investment models via Council’s Long Term Plan process and putting the community front and centre of Council’s mahi was supported.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

· Coordinate a site visit and meeting with Ora Barlow-Tukaki and Iwi/hapū.

8.2

Korehāhā Whakahau Project

Presentation: Korehaha Whakahau: Objective ID A3622397

Presented by: Michal Akurangi, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa

Ms Akurangi introduced Project team members: Project Manager Simon Stokes and Senior Communications and Engagement Advisor Eddie Sykes.

Key Points:

· Korehāhā Whakahau was a Ngāti Awa-led possum eradication project, supported by Predator Free 2050, the Provincial Growth Fund and Te Papa Atawhai via the Jobs for Nature fund. The project was the first Predator Free project to be led by Iwi.

· Korehāhā Whakahau vision was for Ngāti Awa whenua to flourish for future generations to enjoy the ecological, environmental and cultural uniqueness.

· The project was important to Ngāti Awa as a way of passing down Iwi knowledge and values, providing employment, and improving social and environmental outcomes.

· Project aims were to: eradicate possums via a range of methods and techniques, build iwi/hapū capacity and capability, increase participation within the biodiversity and biosecurity sector, create an employment base and build upon opportunities, collaborate with landowner/community groups, foster innovation, and introduce Mātauranga indicators.

· The Project covered 4,700 hectares and included natural lines of defence from the Whakatāne River through to the western end of Ōhiwa Harbour.

· Outlined the progression plan over the five year project span, commencing on the Ngāti Awa farm.

In Response to Questions:

· The project wished to complement existing mahi that was being carried out by other groups, which would be integral to achieve eradication.

· A communications and engagement plan would be developed to initiate conversations and leverage and support existing groups and mahi.

· The project was a first step for Ngāti Awa to pilot its thoughts, with a view to developing a strategy beyond the project to guide and understand future opportunities to support other work/initiatives.

· Welcomed the opportunity to work with Council staff on how Ngāti Awa mātauranga indicators could be shared as part of Council’s He Korowai Mātauranga framework.

· The 5 year project had secured $5 million funding and was currently building resource capacity to align with the Jobs for Nature programme,

· Would be looking for other funding investment streams with plans to expedite conversations with the Regional Council.

Key Points - Members:

· Commended the presentation and congratulated Ngāti Awa in securing funding for the project.

8.3

Central North Island Iwi Land Management Ltd

As noted under Order of Business, this item was withdrawn due to the presenter being unable to attend and present to the meeting.

8.4

Jobs for Nature & Climate Resilience

Presentation: Post-COVID Projects - Central Government Funding for Employment Stimulus in the Bay of Plenty: Objective ID A3616778

Presented by: Chris Ingle, General Manager Integrated Catchments

Mr Ingle provided an update on the different post-Covid-19 Crown funding that was available for shovel-ready projects to stimulate employment in the region, and how Regional Council – Toi Moana was working alongside others to receive the region’s share of the funding.

Key Points:

· Funding categories available were: Provincial Development Unit (PDU), Crown Infrastructure Partners (CIP), Jobs for Nature, One Billion Trees programme, and Ministry for Primary Industries’ (MPI) funding for existing wallaby and wilding trees.

· Regional Council had been awarded funding for the following projects:

o Kia Kaha Whakatāne Project ($2.1 million PDU funding) had created 70 short-term jobs and 200 jobs over the whole project. A key goal would be to transition employees into future work once the project was completed.

o Rangitāiki flood protection (75% CIP funding) providing 54 jobs and five additional projects (80 jobs) that were unbudgeted, which would need to be considered via Council’s Long Term Plan process.

o Wallaby control ($1.45 million MPI funding) and wilding pine control ($817K) would support a 4-year programme.

· An application made for Ministry for the Environment (MfE) funding was pending a decision to support Council’s Focus Catchments mahi in the Waihī and Maketū estuaries, Nukuhou stream, Rotorua lakes and the upper Rangitāiki catchment (61 jobs over two years).

· Regional Council was considering placing 2-3 bids to MfE’s Jobs for Nature second funding round, relating to freshwater outcomes.

· Regional Council had supported Iwi/community bids to the Jobs for Nature programme, i.e. Bay Conservation Cadet programme and Raukumara Pae Maunga Project.

· Recognised the strategic value of the Bay Conservation Cadet programme as an opportunity for rangatahi to move into future environmental mahi.

· Welcomed the opportunity to support Iwi groups that wished to apply for Crown funding that was available.

· One Billion Trees funding programme helped to support native planting projects for the Kaiate Falls focus catchment.

· Acknowledged the Te Kūmara Pae Maunga Project, Ngāti Awa predator free project and Te Arawa wetland and environment work in attaining Jobs for Nature funding and looked forward to integrating with the projects.

In Response to Questions:

· The Regional Skills Leadership Group provided for key opportunities and connection on four bubble areas.

· A whole of Government agency group were meeting on a 3-weekly basis to coordinate funding, integration and key opportunities.

· Regional Council had developed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi to look at how to collaborate and share resources and was an area that would feature in the MoU.

· Council’s overall experience in adapting to the new social procurement environment (i.e. Kia Kaha Whakatane) was going well. Composition of employee’s for the majority were young wahine, and younger people of Māori and Pasifika descent, with supervisors playing an important role in supporting employee’s success and enjoyment in the job.

Key Points - Members:

· Congratulated staff on the success of acquiring funding for the projects.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

· Connect with Te Kūmara Pae Maunga Project and Bay Conservation Alliance Cadetship programme to discuss potential synergies.

· Investigate employment correlation opportunities between the Kia Kaha Whakatāne and CIP projects.

· Raise with the Project Steering Group project manager potential training opportunities between polytechnic institutes and local wānanga.

8.5

Toi Kai Rawa & Toi EDA

Presentation: Toi EDA - Eastern Bay of Plenty Economic Development Agency: Objective ID A3599781

Presentation: Toi Kai Rawa Maori Economic Development: Objective ID A3612419

Toi EDA

Presented by: Toi EDA General Manager Karl Graydon and Manager Operations Ian Morton

Key Points:

· Toi EDA was the Eastern Bay’s Economic Development Agency.

· Its objective was to create a better future for the next generation, focusing on outcomes, collaboration and partnerships, particularly with Iwi/Maori.

· Toi EDA’s Strategy was based on three pillars to: create a winning brand, drive economic development and create thriving communities.

· The Economic Development Strategy over the last 18 months had been targeted on securing Provincial Growth Funds (PGF) for four key projects, as approved by Iwi Chairs and local government representatives. To date $242 million had been secured for: aquaculture, high value horticulture, Kawerau industrial development and Whakatāne tourism/regeneration/ marine centre, which would provide significant benefit to the sub-region.

· Toi EDA had put in place a mobile business support service during Covid-19, which had now connected with over 1,000 businesses.

· Outlined other projects targeted for PGF funding, which Toi EDA would look to leverage and support. Attaining high-value jobs was a key goal.

· Core project/focus areas: EBOP Workforce Strategy, digital connectivity, housing, energy and supporting development of Māori land, by identifying solutions for local level initiatives.

· Key inputs were connecting with social providers (i.e Kainga Ora), DHBs, community organisations, technology providers and Iwi/Māori groups.

· Toi EDA’s objective was to create 7,000 jobs over the next ten years to 2030 via the PGF, and to work directly with sector leaders on skills development.

· Toi EDA had built good relationships with Iwi/Māori organisations and welcomed working alongside others to support and accelerate initiatives.

In Response to Questions:

· Estimated 4,500 direct jobs and 2,500 indirect jobs (total 7,000 jobs) would be created from the PGF over the next 10 years.

· Toi EDA’s involvement in the four key PGF projects was one of assisting to build application bids, providing support in the gaps, and connecting the right people.

· Toi EDA were liaising regularly with Toi Kai Rawa to maximise areas of focus. As TKR rolled out across the Eastern Bay, Toi EDA would be there to collaborate, maximise and support focus areas (and vice versa).

· Rangatahi involved in workforce training initiatives focused on youth below 24 years of age, but would expand beyond this to support all unemployed.

Key Points - Members:

· Congratulated the work and collaboration occurring in the sub-region.

Toi Kai Rawa

Presented by: Toi Kai Rawa Chairman Tamarapa Lloyd and General Manager Awhina Ngatuere

Key Points:

· Toi Kai Rawa Charitable Trust (TKR) was an independent entity focused on Māori Economic Development which had launched in January 2020, having originated from He Mauri Ohooho - Bay of Connections.

· TKR’s kaupapa/goal was to ensure its people were connected, healthy, well and thriving.

· Outlined the regional context for the Māori economic base and pre-Covid-19 statistics, which TKR was striving to advance and mobilise.

· Outlined key priorities and enablers and the four strategic priority areas of: Whenua Ora (unlocking the potential of Māori land and water ecosytems), Tangata Ora (unlocking the potential of Māori communities), Rangatahi Ora (mobilising the future Māori workforce) and Pākihi Ora (energising and mobilising the Māori business network).

· Highlighted the growing potential for social procurement, activation of trade services, whenua Māori solutions hub, annual innovation summits, digital hubs and S.T.E.A.M. hubs for cadetships and scholarships.

· Focus for 2020 was to: deploy strategy action plans, connect to what works, collaborate to build partnerships, reach out to international indigenous whānau to look for opportunities, coordinate hubs, and create design solutions to fill into the gaps.

In Response to Questions:

· TKR was working with Toi EDA to share kōrero and an approach.

· TKR covered the wider Bay of Plenty region.

· Rationale for the establishment of TKR had been picked up by Wellington Regional Council who were developing a similar initiative as TKR.

Key Points - Members:

· Congratulated the work being initiated by TKR.

· Supported TKR’s mahi, recognising that what was good for Māori, was good for the whole region.

· Need all involved in the economic development space to work together.

9. Reports
Ngā Pūrongo

9.1

Komiti Maori Chair Report

Key Points:

· The report was taken as read and accepted without further comment.

· Kataraina O’Brien, Kaiwhakaruru introduced Harina Rupapera, Waka Paul, Siobhan Nuri and Althea Hikuroa, who were four of the ten recipients of
He Toka Tumoana Scholarship.

· Students thanked Council for accepting their scholarships, and provided a brief summary on their current studies.

Key Points - Members:

· Applauded the tauira (students) on their scholarships and studies, and looked forward to seeing them as future leaders.

· A request was raised to further discuss He Toka Tumoana Fund noting the value of the scholarship in building Māori capability.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

· Follow-up Harina Rupapera’s request of a letter of support for her Para Kore youth initiative, as requested at the Komiti Māori hui on 25 February 2020.

· Coordinate a debrief for Komiti Māori members to discuss matters raised at today’s meeting, pending the forthcoming Long Term Plan process.

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Komiti Maori Chair Report.

Thompson/Clark

CARRIED

10. Closing Remarks

The Host-Chair and members thanked presenters for their excellent presentations.

Comments were raised that remarked on the collaboration being undertaken to face the challenges of climate change and Covid-19 recovery, along with the shared learnings, opportunities and resilience expressed to provide oranga (wellbeing) for the future generations.

11. Closing Prayer
Karakia Kati

A karakia was provided by Cr Te Taru White.

12:33 pm – the meeting closed.

Confirmed

Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti

Host Chairperson, Komiti Māori



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Komiti Māori
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	2 November 2020
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Rob Donald, Science Manager
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Namouta Poutasi, General Manager, Strategy & Science
Kaupapa: Purpose:	The purpose of this part of the hui is to present the revised Mahere Taiao (Science Plan) - Te Hononga o ngā Mātauranga (attached) and seek feedback.

Draft Mahere Taiao - Te Hononga o ngā Mātauranga

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

The Science Plan is an internal, high-level document and is presented for information and discussion. The Science Plan is a tool to help guide Council in providing high quality science (data, information, knowledge) to support key regional council processes and ensure decisions are made based on reliable and up-to-date science. This is the second version of the plan, the first being produced in 2015. Key changes since 2015 include a broader focus across the organisation, implementation of He Korowai Mātauranga, and adapting to central government direction. Feedback on the key projects and initiatives in the plan would be appreciated.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Draft Mahere Taiao - Te Hononga o ngā Mātauranga.

1. Kupu Whakataki
Introduction

The Science Plan is a tool to help guide Council in providing high quality science (data, information, knowledge) to support key regional council processes and ensure decisions are made based on reliable and up-to-date science. This also includes providing the evidence base for plan changes (part of the ‘plan, do, monitor, review cycle’).

The Plan is intended to show the range of science activity that is planned to occur over the next three years. It is needed to ensure that science priorities and direction are clear, and that resources are applied effectively. The timing of this review of the Plan has been deliberate in order to align with Council’s LTP process.

The Plan is a high-level and overarching document with a coordination function for the science and research activities across Council. It can be used:

· As a reference for ensuring priorities stay on track and when developing new projects to ensure focus and check complementarities

· To ensure science priorities and work support and deliver organisational needs, duties and priorities

· To improve the visibility of the science and research undertaken

· To foster a greater internal understanding of services provided

· To encourage and allow for mātauranga Māori driven innovation and technologies.

This revised plan has been developed by looking at current and future priorities for science, with the review including progress on key projects and programmes operating since 2015. These projects and programmes cover a wide range of components of the science and research undertaken by Council.

This draft plan was recently presented to the Strategy and Policy Committee Workshop for their guidance also.

1.2 Pou Tarāwaho ā-Ture
Legislative Framework

Monitoring of our natural resources is required under the Resource Management Act, further supported by National Policy Statements (e.g. for Freshwater Management) and National Environmental Standards.

1.3 Te Hāngai ki te Pou Tarāwaho Rautaki
Alignment with Strategic Framework

A Healthy Environment	Our environmental monitoring is transparently communicated to our communities.
Freshwater for Life	Good decision making is supported through improving knowledge of our water resources.
Safe and Resilient Communities	We provide systems and information to increase understanding of natural hazard risks and climate change impacts.
The Way We Work	We use robust information, science and technology.

The purpose of Local Government includes promoting the social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being of communities in the present and for the future.

2. Development of the draft Mahere Taiao

Progress against the 2015 Science Plan was reviewed and new or emerging issues and pressures were identified by consulting with a range on internal staff. Opus Consultants, who produced our first Science Plan back in 2015, were engaged to deliver our revised Mahere Taiao, which included input from Troy Brockbank as a cultural advisor. Staff and our Freshwater and Coastal Chairs were then consulted on the draft plan. The timing of this review has been deliberate to allow direct inclusion in our LTP workshops.

2.1 2020 shifts of the Mahere Taiao

This Science Plan represents a significant shift from the first iteration by drawing together different parts of Council, acknowledging and adapting to the complex political and environmental landscape we operate in, as well as bringing a Māori world view into the Plan. These shifts were made to provide greater coordination and direction for science activities within Council, adapt to central government direction, implement He Korowai Mātauranga in a significant and meaningful way, and to create a direct link to Long Term Plan development.

2.2 He Korowai Mātauranga incorporation in the Mahere Taiao

One of the actions in He Korowai Mātauranga: Weaving Collaborative Actions for HKM was to “Develop a refreshed Science Plan that includes mātauranga Māori in a significant and meaningful way”. This section outlines how provisions for mātauranga Māori have been incorporated into the Plan.

The name of this Plan Te Hononga o ngā Mātauranga weaves together two significant Council strategic documents: He Korowai Mātauranga and Te Hononga. This deliberate conjunction represents the joining of mātauranga Māori with science which is a large focus of this Plan. It also acknowledges the mana of both He Korowai Mātauranga and Te Hononga and the significance of these strategic directions in shaping the content of this Plan.

A number of case-studies in the Plan showcase collaborative partnerships between

Further information on the development of the plan, and the methodology used to incorporate mātauranga, is attached.

3. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

3.1 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

Mitigation			Adaptation
Reduce GHG emissions	Produce GHG emissions	Sequester carbon	Anticipate climate change impacts	Respond to climate change impacts
☐	☐	☐	☒	☐

The information and data generated by our science and monitoring programmes can be used to describe the impacts of climate change (e.g. monitoring of rainfall intensity and its impact on flooding). These programmes also provide input data to modelling which is carried out to anticipate and respond to future climate change impacts.

3.2 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council has statutory obligations to Māori under the Resource Management Act 1991 and the Local Government Act 2002. These obligations require Council to recognise the cultural, economic, environment and social interests of Māori particularly with respect to their natural and physical resources.

Council have developed He Korowai Mātauranga – Mātauranga Māori Framework as an internal document to respect the integrity of Mātauranga to inform decision-making processes and operational business of Council. This will enable a more productive and meaningful relationship with tangata whenua and Māori communities throughout the region. The framework and muka in He Korowai Mātauranga have been used to guide development and implementation of the Science Plan, and will further enable Council to support and build Māori capability and capacity across the region.

Many of the initiatives in this report provide direct and indirect support to Māori.

3.3 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

External engagement has not been undertaken as this is an internal document coordinating science activities. Our Annual Plan and Long Term Plan engagement is considered appropriate for the matters discussed in this report.

3.4 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

Any financial implications from this draft Mahere Taiao are being addressed through the Long Term Plan process.

4. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

The draft Mahere Taiao will be updated based on feedback received and the Plan will be finalised and published. Key projects and initiatives will be progressed through Long Term Plan workshops.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Te Hononga o nga Matauranga - Draft Science Plan ⇩

Attachment 2 - Science Plan Development



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Komiti Māori
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	2 November 2020
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Sandy Hohepa, Maori Policy Advisor
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Kataraina O'Brien, Kaiwhakaruru Namouta Poutasi, General Manager, Strategy & Science
Kaupapa: Purpose:	The purpose of this report is to provide Komiti Māori members with a snapshot of current matters of interest from the Chair.

Komiti Maori Chair Report

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

This report provides Komiti Māori members with an update of issues and events over the past 3 months, and covers:

· Tangata whenua presentations:

· Hinemihi Marae – Rangitihi Pene

· Te Tatau o Te Arawa

· Rotorua Geothermal Ahi Kaa Roa Roopu

· Te Komiro o Te Utuhina

· Freshwater Planning Process: Amendments to the Resource Management Act 1991;

· Update on Te Hononga, the Regional Māori Engagement Plan for Implementing the NPSFM (2020);

· An update on Resource Management Training for Tangata Whenua;

· Funding opportunities from the Ministry for the Environment;

· Update on Toi Kai Rawa – Regional Māori Economic Development Trust;

· He Korowai Mātauranga Action Plan - He Whataunga Muka – Weaving Collaborative Actions for He Korowai Mātauranga;

· A summary of events for Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori 2020;

· Long Term Plan 2021-2031 – Engagement and the indicative timelines for formal consultation;

· Komiti Māori Post Meeting Actions for August 2020.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Komiti Maori Chair Report.

1. Kupu Whakataki
Introduction

Hinemihi Marae

Ko Makatiti Te Maunga

Ko Ōkataina Te Moana

Ko Te Arawa Te Waka

Ko Te Rangitakaroro Te Tangata

Ko Ngāti Tarāwhai Te Iwi

Ko Ngāti Hinemihi Te Hapū

Ko Hinemihi Te Tupuna Kuia

Ko Hinewai Te Wharekai

Ko Kataore Te Kaitiaki

Ko Te Paparere-A-Rātōrua Te Marae

Photo 1: Hinemihi Marae

Hinemihi Marae (also known as Te Paparere-a-Rātōrua) is located in Ngāpuna, at the southern end of Lake Rotorua. Its primary hapū is Ngāti Hinewihi of Ngāti Tarāwhai, with connections also to Tūhourangi,

The wharenui is named Hinemihi, and the wharekai, Hinewai. As people gather at the front of the Marae they are sheltered by the wahanui or gateway named Te Marumaru o Tuhoto.

1.1 Te Hāngai ki te Pou Tarāwaho Rautaki
Alignment with Strategic Framework

Freshwater for Life	We recognise and provide for Te Mana o Te Wai (intrinsic value of water).
A Vibrant Region	We work with and connect the right people to create a prosperous region and economy.
The Way We Work	We honour our obligations to Māori.

2. Kaupapa Tuarua: Tangata Whenua Presentations

2.1 Hinemihi Marae – Rangitihi Pene

Rangitihi Pene will present a brief history on the marae, including:

· Hinemihi prior to the 1886 Tarawera eruption.

· Hinemihi, Clandon Park, England.

· Hinemihi, Ngāpuna, Rotorua 1935-2020.

2.2 Te Arawa 2050 Te Matakitenga a Te Arawa

Ms Jenny Riini will present on the Te Awa vision.

In 2019, following a call from the people for a new, united, whole of Te Arawa vision, a collective made up of key decision-makers representing 16 Te Arawa mandated organisations came together to form the Te Arawa 2050 Te Matakitenga a Te Arawa to develop the Vision.

The vision embeds the history of Te Arawa into the future ensuring that the practices and traditions remain as a foundation and central to the identity of the iwi. Remembering the words of Houmaitawhiti, we can reflect on their application to our world now and we consider their relevance in terms of the strategic priorities our people have set for us - to achieve our shared vision of:

Te Arawa Vision – Mauri Tū, Mauri Ora, Te Arawa E!

While the majority of Houmaitawhiti kupu ōhākī is generally agreed upon today, there are two versions of his concluding instructions that are recognised in the Te Arawa rohe: one calling on his whānau to fight until they have given their last breath; and the other, calling on his whānau to hold fast to peace in their new home.

Regardless of the version you follow, the message is still understood in the same way – we must try our best and strive for excellence.

Photo 2: Signing of Te Arawa 2050 Vision July 2020.

Through the strategy Te Arawa hopes to become a major employer of iwi descendants within the next 30 years. It includes Te Arawa-run businesses providing employment for its people locally, an iwi-owned bank, its own Silicon Valley and restoration of the environment.

2.3 Rotorua Geothermal Ahi Kaa Roa Roopu - Lani Kereopa & Lorraine Hall

Lani Kereopa and Lorraine Hall are part of the Te Ahi Kaa Roa Roopu who presented on the geothermal taonga in Rotorua.

A multi layered engagement process is being used for the development of the Rotorua System Management Plan and the review of the Rotorua Geothermal Regional Plan. This includes the establishment of ‘Te Ahi Kaa Roa Roopu’: a mana whenua working group with representatives from the villages of Ngāpuna, Whakarewarewa and Ōhinemutu, and more recently Kuirau. The group was formed in January 2019 with a focus on testing ideas, and contributing expertise on Mātauranga Māori and a tangata whenua perspective on the management of the system. Te Ahi Kaa Roa have been meeting regularly since then, initially focussing on identification of values and issues. The first deliverable was input into an Issues and Options Discussion Document as part of wider community engagement.

In 2020 it was agreed that a Mātauranga Māori perspective on the health or Mauri of the geothermal taonga was needed to inform our understanding of long term trends in the health of the system, indicators or tohu, customary uses, and management principles. Elva Conroy (Conroy and Donaldson Consultants) was engaged to work with the Roopu and collate their views, perspectives and observations. This was done through hikoi and hui, additional research and interviews. A draft report has been prepared and the Roopu are taking it to their communities to ensure that it reflects their views. Ms Conroy and members of the Roopu will share some of this work with Komiti Māori, with the final report delivered at a later date. Council is sponsoring (through the Geothermal Programme) the attendance of two members of the Roopu to attend and present their work at the New Zealand Geothermal Workshop in November 2020.

2.4 Te Komiro o Te Utuhina – Lani Kereopa

Te Kōmiro o Te Utuhina is an iwi-led group of hunga tiaki, focused on the restoration, enhancement and protection of their tupuna awa and the wider Ōhinemutu village water-boundary. To date, the group has coordinated clean-ups, pest plant removal, and native plantings along the Utuhina riverbanks and Ōhinemutu lakefront. Representatives are also actively involved in lobbying local government to address the issues around Rotorua stormwater and wastewater systems negatively impacting on water quality and the mauri of their wai and taonga species.

Te Kōmiro o Te Utuhina asked and were granted the mandate to represent Ngāti Whakaue ki Ōhinemutu on issues involving the village water-boundary at a hui-ā-iwi in August 2018. The overarching role of the group is to advance the aspirations of Ngāti Whakaue ki Ōhinemutu to restore and protect the iwi’s ancestral water sources and food baskets for the health, wellbeing and benefit of future generations.

Photo 3: Whanau working bee at Utuhina

3. Kaupapa Tuatoru: Freshwater Planning Process: Amendments to the Resource Management Act 1991

On 28 October the Chief Freshwater Commissioner Professor Peter Skelton with meet with the Bay of Plenty iwi leaders the recent changes to the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). In particular those changes concerning the Freshwater Planning Process (FPP). His intention is also to visit other parts of the country to gauge the principal issues that concern tangata whenua and to answer any questions in relation to the new FPP.

The amendments to the RMA will enable regional councils and unitary authorities to make changes to their freshwater plans in a more efficient way. With the gazetting of the amended National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPSFM 2020), the new planning process will involve:

Streamlining decisions on freshwater plans by:

· Regional councils to notify freshwater plans that give effect to the NPS-FM by 31 December 2024 and make final decisions within two years of notification.Regional Councils and freshwater hearings panel chairs can request an extension to the two year decision-making timeframe.

· Establishing independent freshwater hearings panels with enhanced hearings powers, made up of expert freshwater commissioners, council and tangata whenua nominees.

· Providing for submitter appeal rights to the Environment Court only in certain circumstances.

4. Kaupapa Tuawhā: Update on Te Hononga: Regional Māori Engagement Plan for the NPSFM 2020

Te Hononga has been socialised with 17 iwi across the region, including TALT, with a further 5 requesting hui as soon as possible. Te Maru o Kaituna, the Rotorua Lakes Strategy Group and the Rangitāiki River Forum. They have received presentations on the purpose of Te Hononga and on the key shifts in the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPSFM2020). Interest from the Gisborne District Council, Auckland Council and the Ministry for the Environment have also be received particularly in regard to some of the engagement options proposed under Te Hononga.

At the operational level the NPSFM 2020 Project Lead Team is preparing briefs for each of the project work-streams most of which will need to consider the compulsory Māori value “Mahinga Kai”. Te Hononga is central to the work that is undertaken by the Kaupapa Māori work-stream particularly in regard to how Māori will be involved in the planning process. This team will also provide advice across the wider project in regard to developing the attributes for mahinga kai, its integration into areas such as water quality, monitoring, limit setting and vision statements.

Electronic copies of Te Hononga have been distributed to Iwi Leaders in the
Bay of Plenty.

5. Kaupapa Tuarima: Resource Management Training for Tangata Whenua

Staff have been facilitating resource management act (RMA) training over the past few years. RMA training workshops seek to build knowledge, understanding and confidence in navigating the Resource Management Act.

The programme is in high demand and staff are receiving requests from all parts of the region. Staff assist whānau navigate the Act through its fundamental building blocks through to some of the more detailed features of the legislation.

Despite the effects of COVID-19, over 155 people have completed the training and more are expected in the coming months as the benefits of the kaupapa resonate across the region.

The table below shows the RMA training that has occurred this year:

RMA Training held during 2020
Date	Roopu	Venue	No. Participants
1 August	Ngāti Ira / Ngāti Rua	Omaramutu Marae	20
27 September	Taiwhakaea Whānau	Regional Council office	25
12 September	Te Arawa Roopu	Regional Council office	16
8 October	Tauranga Moana	Hairini Marae	33

Photo 4: RMA Students completed training in September 2020.

6. Kaupapa Tuaono: Ministry for the Environment Funding Opportunities

The Ministry for the Environment manages environmental funds on behalf of Ministers. Funding that is available in relation to Freshwater Management are:

· Te Mana o Te Wai Fund; and

· Freshwater Improvement Fund.

Te Mana o Te Wai Fund

Te Mana o Te Wai Fund is available to help Māori improve the water quality of freshwater bodies (including lakes, rivers, streams, estuaries and lagoons) that are of importance to them by:

· Supporting iwi/hapū to play an active part in improving the water quality of their local freshwater bodies.

· Enabling iwi/hapū to actively participate in managing their local freshwater bodies.

· Developing partnerships and working in collaboration with others.

· Assisting iwi/hapū and the wider community recognise the importance of fresh water in supporting a healthy ecosystem, including supporting human health.

The concept of Te Mana o Te Wai reflects the recognition of freshwater as a natural resource whose health is integral to the social, cultural, economic and environmental well-being of communities.

The funding is open to all legal entities and the projects should be for a timeframe of up to 2 years. The minimum grant available is $200,000 (excl. GST) but applicants must part fund from other sources.

The Freshwater Improvement Fund

The Freshwater Improvement Fund is available for projects that create employment opportunities which will improve the management of New Zealand’s lakes, rivers, streams, groundwater and wetlands.

This includes funding for:

· Reduction of sediment eroding from the land.

· Wetland construction and restoration.

· Stream reinstatement.

· Estuary protection and restoration.

· Restoration of fish passage.

Any legal entity can apply for this funding providing that the project contributes to improving the management of New Zealand’s freshwater bodies. The minimum request for funding is $200,000 (excl. GST) and the project will be funded for a maximum period of up to 5 years.

All of these funding initiatives can be found on the Ministry for the Environments website www.mfe.govt.nz.

Te Pūnaha Hihiko: Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund:

Te Punaha Hihiko: Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund aims to:

· strengthen capability, capacity, skills and networks between Māori and the science and innovation system, and

· increase understanding of how research can contribute to the aspirations of Māori organisations and deliver benefit for New Zealand.

The Fund invests in the development of skilled people and organisations that plan to undertake, or are undertaking, research that supports the themes and outcomes of our Vision Mātauranga policy.

Approximately $2.0 million (excluding GST) per year is available to fund successful proposals in the Te Pūnaha Hihiko: Vision Mātauranga Capability Fund 2021 investment round. This funding is available through 2 schemes: Connect Scheme and Placement Scheme.

The Connect Scheme seeks to build new connections between Māori organisations and the science and innovation system. The Placement Scheme seeks to enhance the development of an individual(s) through placement in a partner organisation.

The work programme term for both Connect and Placement schemes is up to two years. For a work programme with a project of:

· up to 1 year in length, the maximum funding per successful proposal is $150,000 (excluding GST).

· between 1 & 2 years in length, the maximum funding per successful proposal is $250,000 (excluding GST).

7. Kaupapa Tuawhitu: Update from Toi Kai Rawa – Regional Māori Economic Development Trust

Key highlights/milestones for period September - October 2020

· Toi Kai Rawa (TKR) has secured funding from several sources including BOPRC towards core and project funding.

· BOPRC contract was signed off in September 2020.

· TKR have engaged an independent Māori consultant to support part this contract particularly the key scoping projects for Social Procurement and Whenua Māori.

· From a relationship development/networking perspective - several meetings have taken place with EDA’s, Iwi, industry and other organisations with a lot more meetings to go.

· We have filled 3 of the 4 positions advertised by TKR with the final role expected to be appointed by the end of October 2020.

· Below is a summary of actions across the ‘Ora’ priority areas the BOPRC contract deliverables.

Toi Kai Rawa Priority Areas	Purpose	Key Updates
Pakihi Ora	Energising and connecting the Māori business sector by standing up sub regional Māori business networks across the wider Bay of Plenty region and connecting 1,000 Māori businesses up by July 2021.	a) The Regional Māori Business Coordinator’s role will be to advance the Pakihi Ora workstream. b) This work is underway.
Tangata Ora	Unlock the potential of Whenua Māori in the wider Bay of Plenty Region.	Key focus is this area: a) Activation of Innovation Hubs embedded in communities initiatives which we’ve called ‘Hihiko Te Rawa Auaha’ Energising Innovation. – x5 kura Māori communities engaged to date with strong interest across the wider Bay of Plenty. b) Māori STEAM Strategy Action Plan.
Rangatahi Ora	Engage and support Māori Land optimisation at an enterprise level to operationalise opportunities.	a) Continuation to delivering Māori STEAM Discovery Tours into some of the key high value sectors across the wider Bay of Plenty. b) Delivery of the next Ko Māui Hangarau – Māori Tech and Innovation Summit in Otaki on 28 October 2020.
Whenua Ora	Unlock the potential of Whenua Maori across the wider Bay of Plenty.	a) Our focus is on completing the Whenua Māori Solutions Lab Scoping plan and improvement plan ready for the next stage. b) Start the planning for the Whenua Māori Innovation Summit.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC) Key Contact Deliverables Update:

Contact Organisation	Purpose	Comments
BOPRC	Scoping report for Whenua Māori in the wider BOP. Develop a methodology for investigating whenua Māori issues (“Methodology”); Use the methodology to develop a regional whenua Māori improvement plan that outlines issues and opportunities for Māori (“Improvement Plan”); and provide an update to the appropriate Council meeting in the first quarter of 2021 following completion of the framework and on completion of its first implementation plan.	Engaged Consultants to support this part of the work. Report and improvement plan due.
BOPRC	Social Procurement Scoping Plan TKR intends to use the Scoping Plan to develop and deliver initiatives to enable Maori businesses and groups to be more competitive in responses to government sector tender processes e.g. advice and support, training etc.	Engaged Consultant to action these. Report and improvement plan due to us by the end of October 2020.
BOPRC	Development of a Regional Relationship Plan that identifies the entities that TKR will meet and share workplans with to identify collaboration opportunities.	Plan is being developed now. First milestone is due by the end of November 2020.

8. Kaupapa Tuawaru: He Korowai Mātauranga Action Plan: He Whataunga Muka – Weaving Collaborative Actions

The Leadership Team recently approved He Korowai Mātauranga Action Plan ‘He Whataunga Muka’.

The action plan outlines a number of actions to give effect to He Korowai Mātauranga over the next few years. Many teams across Council will support its implementation which aims to build internal capability to appreciate, receive and respect mātauranga Māori.

During Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori, staff launched the Action Plan across the offices during various Māori Language Week activities. It was positively received by staff.

9. Kaupapa Tuaiwa: Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori – Kia Kaha

Toi Moana has had the privilege of celebrating Te Wiki o Te Reo Māori for the last 18 years. This year the theme was Kia Kaha 2020 for Māori Language week.

The Leadership Team actively promoted Te Wiki o Te Reo (TWoTRM) by encouraging all staff to participate in events. It also provide the opportunity to launch Council’s commitment to embracing Te Ao Māori and offering the opportunity to staff to learn Te Reo.

This year:

· 291 staff participated in the activities

· 64 online & offline activities were provide to staff;

· 21 guest speakers covered or facilitated from across the region: Mātauranga Māori workshops; history hikoi; korero ā mana whenua; iwi and hapū contextualised learning and stories

· There were over 100 participants in the Pepeha Challenge (the journey of understanding who you are and where you are from);

· Launched the He Korowai Mātauranga Action Plan

· 128 staff registered successfully to begin their Te Ao Māori learning journey supported by Toi Moana through Te Reo Māori classes, Mana Whenua Courses, Te Tiriti o Waitangi Wānanga and Te Reo Māori learning through waiata and haka; and

· 100% successful feedback from staff.

TWoTRM 2020 provided an opportunity for staff to have a meaningful experience of Te Ao Māori and to contribute to building the organisation’s capability to engage with tangata whenua.

10. Kaupapa Tekau: Long Term Plan 2021-2031 - Engagement

Council’s next Long Term Plan (LTP) 2021-2031 is currently being developed. The LTP will set out the work that Council plans to do over the next ten years, with a focus on the next three years. It will become operative on 1 July 2021. Council’s formal consultation on the draft Long Term Plan 2021-2031 is planned for February/March 2021. This follows initial pre-engagement that was held during July and August and an update reported at the previous Komiti Maori meeting.

11. Kaupapa Tekau ma tahi: Komiti Māori Post Meeting Actions

Please refer to Attachment 1 which outlines the status of actions raised at previous Komiti Māori. The table is a handy reference to ensure that matters are followed up accordingly.

12. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

12.1 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

Tangata whenua presentations covered elements relating to how communities can respond to climate change, show initiative through applying Mātauranga Māori, and present a response from those who observe the changes to their awa, lakes and land.

12.2 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

The items presented in this report cover a range of initiatives which have a positive impact on Māori. The efforts of kaitiaki groups to actively restore their waterways or to monitor the progress or decline of taonga species only encourages Council to build relationships and Māori capacity.

Organisations such as Toi Kai Rawa are at the forefront of enabling whānau to build the economy through investigating opportunities to maximise the use of Māori land and re-energising Māori businesses.

In this regard Council’s actions are not the subject of the analysis under this section. Rather, this section highlights the opportunities for Council to form partnerships with kaitiaki and Māori organisations that are leading the way in promoting the application of Mātauranga Māori and new ideas on how to unlock the potential from people and the huge Māori asset base.

The implications for Māori can only be positive where Council recognises opportunities to enhance Māori capacity through partnerships. These partnerships have benefits to Māori and the wider community. Te Hononga for example represents Council’s acknowledgement that by working with Māori, priority initiatives such as implementing the NPSFM, can be successfully achieved when Māori have meaningful participation in the planning/policy process.

12.3 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

Community engagement was not sought to inform the preparation of this report.

12.4 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

There are no unbudgeted financial implications and fits within the allocated budget.

13. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

This report is an update to inform members of matters of interest and is for information purposes only.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Komiti Maori Actions from the August 2020 meeting.

Chairperson
Notwithstanding the Komiti Māori has an appointed Chairperson, Māori Constituency Councillors may host-Chair committee meetings that are held in the rohe of their respective constituency	Cr Matemoana McDonald
Deputy Chairperson	Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti
Members
· Three Māori Constituency Councillors · Four General Constituency Councillors	Cr Bill Clark Cr Stacey Rose Cr Paula Thompson Cr Lyall Thurston Cr Te Taru White
Ex Officio	Chairman Doug Leeder
Quorum	Four members, being more than half the number of members
Meeting frequency	Two monthly