Regional Council Agenda

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the next meeting of the Regional Council will be held in Council Chambers, Regional House, 1 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga on:

Thursday 24 June 2021 COMMENCING AT 9.30 am

This meeting will be recorded.

The Public section of this meeting will be recorded and uploaded to Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s website.  Further details on this can be found after the Terms of Reference within the Agenda.

 

Fiona McTavish

Chief Executive, Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana

16 June 2021

 


 

Council

Membership

Chairperson

Chairman Doug Leeder

Deputy Chairperson

Cr Jane Nees

Members

All Councillors

Quorum

Seven members, consisting of half the number of members

Meeting frequency

Six weekly or as required for Annual Plan, Long Term Plan and other relevant legislative requirements

Purpose

·                Enable democratic local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of, Bay of Plenty communities.

·                Meet the current and future needs of communities for good-quality local infrastructure, local public services, and performance of regulatory functions in a way that is most cost-effective for households and businesses.

·                Set the overarching strategic direction for Bay of Plenty Regional Council as an organisation.

·                Hold ultimate responsibility for allocating financial resources across the Council.

Role

·                Address Local Electoral Act matters and Local Government Rating Act matters.

·                Oversee all matters relating to identifying and contributing to community outcomes.

·                Consider and agree on matters relating to significant new activities or areas of involvement such as infrastructure which are not the responsibility of a specific committee.

·                Provide regional leadership on key issues that require a collaborative approach between a number of parties.

·                Review and decide the Council’s electoral and representation arrangements.

·                Consider issues of regional significance which are not the responsibility of any specific standing committee or that are of such regional significance/high public interest that the full Council needs to decide on them.

·                Adopt Council’s Policy on Significance and Engagement Policy.

·                Develop, adopt and implement the Triennial Agreement, Code of Conduct and Standing Orders.

·                Consider and agree on matters relating to elected members’ remuneration.

·                Appoint the Chief Executive, and review their contract, performance and remuneration at least annually.

·                Approve all delegations to the Chief Executive, including the authority for further delegation to staff.

·                Oversee the work of all committees and subcommittees.

·                Receive and consider recommendations and matters referred to it by its committees, joint committees, subcommittees and working parties.

·                Approve membership to external bodies and organisations, including Council Controlled Organisations.

·                Develop, adopt and review policies for, and monitor the performance of, Council Controlled Organisations.

·                Monitor and review the achievement of outcomes for the Bay of Plenty Community.

·                Review and approve strategic matters relating to the sale, acquisition and development of property for the purposes of meeting Council’s organisational requirements and implement Regional Council policy.

·                Address strategic corporate matters including property and accommodation.

·                Consider and agree on the process to develop the Long Term Plan, Annual Plan and Annual Report.

·                Adopt the Long Term Plan, Annual Plan and budgets variations, and Annual Report.

·                Adopt Council policies as required by statute (for example Regional Policy Statement and Regional Land Transport Strategy) to be decided by Council or outside of committee delegations (for example infrastructure policy).

·                Develop, review and approve Council’s Financial Strategy and funding and financial policies and frameworks.

·                Institute any proceedings in the High Court that are not injunctive proceedings.

·                Exercise the powers and duties conferred or imposed on Council by the Public Works Act 1981.

Delegations from Council to committees

·                Council has a role to monitor the functioning of all committees.

·                Council will consider matters not within the delegation of any one Council committee.

·                Council may at any time, revoke or modify a delegation to a Council committee, either permanently, for a specified time or to address a specific matter, if it considers there is good reason to do so.

·                The delegations provided to committees may be further delegated to subcommittees unless the power of further delegation is restricted by Council or by statute.

·                It is accepted in making these delegations that:

·                The committees, in performing their delegated functions, powers or duties, may, without confirmation by the Council, exercise or perform them in a like manner and with the same effect as the Council itself could have exercised or performed them.

·                The delegated powers given shall at all times be subject to their current policies and principles or directions, as given by the Council from time to time.

·                The chairperson of each committee shall have the authority to exercise their discretion, as to whether or not the delegated authority of the committee be used where, in the opinion of the chairperson, circumstances warrant it.

Powers that cannot be delegated

Under Clause 32 Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002, Council must make the following decisions:

·                Make a rate.

·                Make a bylaw.

·                Borrow money or purchase or dispose of assets, other than in accordance with the long-term plan.

·                Adopt the long-term plan, annual plan, or annual report.

·                Appoint a chief executive.

·                Adopt policies required to be adopted and consulted on under the Local Government Act 2002 in association with the long-term plan or developed for the purpose of the local governance statement.

·                Adopt a remuneration and employment policy.


 

Recording of Meetings

Please note the Public section of this meeting is being recorded and will be uploaded Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s web site in accordance with Council's Live Streaming and Recording of Meetings Protocols which can be viewed on Council’s website. The recording will be archived and made publicly available on Council's website within two working days after the meeting on www.boprc.govt.nz for a period of three years (or as otherwise agreed to by Council).

All care is taken to maintain your privacy; however, as a visitor in the public gallery or as a participant at the meeting, your presence may be recorded. By remaining in the public gallery, it is understood your consent is given if your image is inadvertently broadcast.

Opinions expressed or statements made by individual persons during a meeting are not the opinions or statements of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Council accepts no liability for any opinions or statements made during a meeting.

 


Bay of Plenty Regional Council - Toi Moana

Governance Commitment

mō te taiao, mō ngā tāngata - our environment and our people go hand-in-hand.

 

 

We provide excellent governance when, individually and collectively, we:

·        Trust and respect each other

·        Stay strategic and focused

·        Are courageous and challenge the status quo in all we do

·        Listen to our stakeholders and value their input

·        Listen to each other to understand various perspectives

·        Act as a team who can challenge, change and add value

·        Continually evaluate what we do

 

 

TREAD LIGHTLY, THINK DEEPLY,
ACT WISELY, SPEAK KINDLY.


Regional Council                                                                                                               24 June 2021

Recommendations in reports are not to be construed as Council policy until adopted by Council.

Agenda

E te Atua nui tonu, ko mātau ēnei e inoi atu nei ki a koe, kia tau mai te māramatanga ki a mātau whakarite mō tēnei rā, arahina hoki mātau, e eke ai te ōranga tonu ki ngā āhuatanga katoa a ngā tangata ki tō mātau rohe whānui tonu. Āmine.

 

 

“Almighty God we ask that you give us wisdom in the decisions we make here today and give us guidance in working with our regional communities to promote their social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being.  Amen”.

1.       Opening Karakia

2.       Apologies

3.       Public Forum

4.       Items not on the Agenda

5.       Order of Business

6.       Declaration of Conflicts of Interest

7.       Public Excluded Business to be Transferred into the Open

8.       Minutes

Minutes to be Confirmed

8.1      Regional Council Minutes - 20 May 2021                                               1

Minutes to be Received

8.2      Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee Minutes - 13 April 2021                                                                                                  1

8.3      Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 9 April 2021                                      1

8.4      Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes - 11 December 2020         1

8.5      Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee Minutes - 28 May 2021                                                                                                           1

9.       Reports

9.1      Chairperson's Report                                                                               1

Decisions Required

9.2      Adoption of the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021   1

Attachment 1 - Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021 - To be circulated under separate cover                                                                                                           1

9.3      Adoption of Fees and Charges Policy                                                    1

Attachment 1 - S36AAA Resource Management Chrages Analysis - Draft for Adoption June 2021                                                                                                                               1

Attachment 2 - Fees and Charges Policy - Draft for Adoption June 2021                   1

9.4      Quayside Holdings Statement of Intent 2021/22

This item will be distributed under a separate cover.

9.5      Toi Moana Trust Statement of Intent 2021/22

This item will be distributed under a separate cover.

9.6      Adoption of Long Term Plan 2021-2031                                                1

Attachment 1 - BOPRC Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Volume One - Draft for Adoption June 2021                                                                                                                               1

Supporting Document 1 - BOPRC Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Volume Two - Draft for Adoption June 2021

Supporting Document 2 - BOPRC Financial Policies and Other Policies - Draft for Adoption June 2021

Supporting Document 3 - BOPRC Asset Management Plans - Draft for Adoption June 2021

9.7      Rates Setting 2021/22                                                                             1

9.8      Science Services - Panel Supplier Contract Procurement Plan           1

Attachment 1 - 2020 0150 Science Panel Procurement Plan - draft for Council approval                                                                                                                                                 1

10.     Public Excluded Section

Resolution to exclude the public

Excludes the public from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting as set out below:

The general subject of each matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter, and the specific grounds under section 48(1) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows:

Item No.

Subject of each matter to be considered

Reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter

Grounds under Section 48(1) for the passing of this resolution

When the item can be released into the public

10.1

Public Excluded Regional Council Minutes - 20 May 2021

As noted in the relevant Minutes.

As noted in the relevant Minutes.

To remain in public excluded.

10.2

Papamoa Hills Upgrade Project - Approval of Procurement Plan

Withholding the information is necessary to enable any local authority holding the information to carry out, without prejudice or disadvantage, commercial activities.

48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(h).

To remain in public excluded.

10.3

Quayside Director Appointments

Withholding the information is necessary to protect information where the making available of the information would be likely to unreasonably prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied or who is the subject of the information.

48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(b)(ii).

On the Chief Executive's approval.

 

Minutes to be Confirmed

10.1    Public Excluded Regional Council Minutes - 20 May 2021

Decisions Required

10.2    Papamoa Hills Upgrade Project - Approval of Procurement Plan

Attachment 1 - 2021 0211 Papamoa Hills Upgrade RFT Procurement Plan

10.3    Quayside Director Appointments

Attachment 1 - Quayside Directors Appointment Schedule June 2021

11.     Public Excluded Business to be Transferred into the Open

12.     Readmit the Public

13.     Consideration of Items not on the Agenda

14.     Closing Karakia


Regional Council Minutes

20 May 2021

 

Regional Council

Open Minutes

Commencing:             Thursday 20 May 2021, 9.30 am

Venue:                         Mataatua Room, Bay of Plenty Regional Council Building 5 Quay Street, Whakatane 3120

Chairperson:               Chairman Doug Leeder

Deputy Chairperson:  Deputy Chairperson Jane Nees

Members:                    Cr Bill Clark

Cr Stuart Crosby – via Zoom

Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti

Cr David Love

Cr Matemoana McDonald

Cr Stacey Rose – via Zoom

Cr Paula Thompson – via Zoom

Cr Lyall Thurston

Cr Andrew von Dadelszen

Cr Te Taru White – via Zoom

Cr Kevin Winters

In Attendance:            Fiona McTavish – Chief Executive, Mat Taylor – General Manager Corporate, Sarah Omundsen – General Manager Regulatory Services, Chris Ingle – General Manager Integrated Catchments, Debbie Hyland – Finance and Transport Operations Manager, Mereana Toroa - Finance Support Team Lead, Tobias Fransson – Performance Analyst, Annabel Chappell – Manager, Special Projects, Glen Clarkin – Enterprise Systems Manager, Tone Nerdrum Smith – Committee Advisor

Phil Wardale – Whakatāne Harbour Project Presentation

Apologies:                  Cr Norm Bruning, Cr Stuart Crosby (late arrival via Zoom), Cr Stacey Rose (early departure via Zoom)

 

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLNI0sfOqUe3jM4OpzWNrm1DpUmpW1k7ie

 

1.     Opening Karakia

A karakia was provided by Cr Iti.

2.     Apologies

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Accepts the apologies from Cr Norm Bruning; Cr Stuart Crosby (late arrival via Zoom) and Cr Stacey Rose (early departure via Zoom) tendered at the meeting.

Thurston/Leeder

CARRIED

 

3.     Declaration of Conflicts of Interest

None declared.

4.     Minutes

Minutes to be Confirmed

4.1

Regional Council Minutes - 1 April 2021

Matters Arising

Item 7.5 ‘Enhancing Youth Engagement’, resolution 3: Noted that the resolution to “Considers an additional budget of $45,000…” had been amended to $75,000 during the LTP deliberations on 12 May 2021. Being a resolution to ‘consider’ rather than ‘confirm’ there was no requirement to rescind the resolution.

 

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

          Confirms the Regional Council Minutes - 1 April 2021 as a true and correct record.

Rose/Winters

CARRIED

 

Minutes to be Received

4.2

Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 4 December 2020

 

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

          Receives the Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 4 December 2020.

Winters/Iti

CARRIED

 

5.     Presentations

5.1

Whakatāne Boat Harbour Project Update

Presentation - Whakatane Boat Harbour Project - Council 20 May 2021 pdf: Objective ID A3805433   

Presented by: Phil Wardale - Project Director.

 

Key Points:

·    The original proposal to replace/upgrade the existing wharf had progressed to form part of the more comprehensive Whakatāne regeneration programme, for which Provincial Growth Funding had been granted

·    Several options for the location and configuration of the Boat Harbour had been considered, before the Keepa Road option was confirmed

·    Next steps included:

o Application drafting

o Assessment of Environmental Effects

o Cultural Impact Assessment completion

o Community consultation with AEE findings – June 2021

o Concession application to cross Department of Conservation land

·    The discovery that the Wharf was not as corroded as first assessed, meant it was being remediated, rather than being replaced by:

o Reconstruction of decayed under wharf concrete elements

o Works package valued at $3m, co-funded 50% by the Provincial Development Unit (PDU)

o Contractor procurement had been completed during lockdown

o Works commenced July 2020 and expected completion was June 2021

10.15am – Cr Crosby entered the meeting (via Zoom).

 

 

6.     Reports

6.1

Chairperson's Report

Key Points - Members:

·    Loadstone had a number of solar farm sites nationally, with three being established in the Bay of Plenty

·    The solar panels were pivot mounted and moved with the sun, and the land would be utilised for farming purposes.

Key Points - Staff:

·    Council currently sponsored the Balance Farm Environment Awards.

 

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Chairperson's Report.

Leeder/Nees

CARRIED

 

Decisions Required

6.2

Rates Collection Project Update

Presented by: Annabel Chappell – Manager, Special Projects - and Glen Clarkin – Enterprise Systems Manager.

Key Points:

·    Outlined the project currently in place to implement the decision to collect the Regional Council rates internally, rather than for the territorial authorities continuing to collect rates as a contracted service

·    Factors such as increased visibility; efficiency and cost considerations had prompted the change

·    A key factor in the project was to ensure the customer experience was positive

·    Project team was working closely with the territorial authorities

·    The complete net financial impacts were not yet known as the project was still in the discovery phase

·    Recognised the complexity of the project with a number of clearly identified workstreams.

 

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Rates Collection Project Update.

2        Notes the progress made towards Bay of Plenty Regional Council moving to an in-house rates collection service.

3        Approves the Procurement Plan for the rates collection technology system.

4        Delegates approval to the Chief Executive to award the contract for the rates collection technology system, provided the costs are within the budget as set out in the draft Long Term Plan 2021-2031.

Leeder/Winters

CARRIED

 

6.3

Eastern BOP Road Safety Operations Group Appointment

10:44am - Cr Rose withdrew from the meeting (via Zoom).

 

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Eastern BOP Road Safety Operations Group Appointment.

2        Agrees to disestablish the Eastern Bay of Plenty Road Safety Committee.

3        Notes the Eastern Bay of Plenty Road Safety Operations Group’s Terms of Reference.

4        Appoints Cr Bill Clark as its representative to the Eastern Bay of Plenty Road Safety Operations Group.

Thurston/Iti

CARRIED

 

Information Only

6.4

Arotake Tuatoru 2020/21 - Performance Monitoring Report Quarter Three

Presentation - Arotake Tuatoru 2020-21 - Performance Monitoring Report Quarter Three - Council 20 May 2021 pdf: Objective ID A3808177   

Presented by: Debbie Hyland – Finance and Transport Operations Manager, Tobias Fransson – Performance Analyst and Mereana Toroa - Finance Support Team Lead, supported by Chris Ingle – General Manager Integrated Catchments.

Key Points:

·    Outlined both the financial and non-financial performance for the nine months ended 31 March 2021.

Key Points - Members:

·    Noted the additional resolution relating to the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Wastewater Scheme passed at the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group meeting on 14 May 2021 that, if the Minister for the Environment did not adjust the current Deed Funding, the Strategy Group would review the allocation of the remaining Deed Funds required to complete the outstanding work, with priority given to completing Rotoiti

·    Further noted that any decisions with regards to re-allocation of funding would be referred to each parent Council/the Crown for ratification

·    Important that, if re-allocation of funding was considered, any potential impact on other areas of responsibility was clearly identified and assessed.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·    Chief Executive to brief Councillors on the potential implications of the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group’s resolution with regards to Deed funding re-allocation.

 

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Arotake Tuatoru 2020/21 - Performance Monitoring Report Quarter Three.

2        Confirms the public be excluded on the grounds set out in the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 from consideration of the following report attachments:

(a)  Bancorp Treasury Report March 2021 under Section 48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(b)(ii) as withholding the information is necessary to protect information where the making available of the information would be likely to unreasonably prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied or who is the subject of the information and that this attachment remain in Public Excluded.

(b)  Toi Moana Trust March 2021 Quarterly Report under Section 48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(b)(ii) as withholding the information is necessary to protect information where the making available of the information would be likely to unreasonably prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied or who is the subject of the information and that this attachment remain in Public Excluded.

Winters/Love

CARRIED

 

7.     Public Excluded Section

Resolved

Resolution to exclude the public

1        Excludes the public from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting as set out below:

The general subject of each matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter, and the specific grounds under section 48(1) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows:

Item No.

Subject of each matter to be considered

Reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter

Grounds under Section 48(1) for the passing of this resolution

When the item can be released into the public

14.1

Arotake Tuatoru 2020/21 - Performance Monitoring Report Quarter Three –Attachment 2 - Bancorp Treasury Report March 2021

Withholding the information is necessary to protect information where the making available of the information would be likely to unreasonably prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied or who is the subject of the information.

48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(b)(ii).

To remain in public excluded.

14.2

Arotake Tuatoru 2020/21 - Performance Monitoring Report Quarter Three - Attachment 3 - Toi Moana Trust March 2021 Quarterly Report - Public Excluded

Withholding the information is necessary to protect information where the making available of the information would be likely to unreasonably prejudice the commercial position of the person who supplied or who is the subject of the information.

48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(b)(ii).

To remain in public excluded.

7.3

Public Excluded Regional Council Minutes - 1 April 2021

As noted in the relevant Minutes.

As noted in the relevant Minutes.

To remain in public excluded.

 

Leeder/Winters

CARRIED

 

 

11.02 am – the meeting closed.

 

 

Confirmed                                                                                                                                          

                                                                                                                         Chairman Doug Leeder

Chairperson, Regional Council


Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee Minutes

13 April 2021

 

Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee

Open Minutes

Commencing:             Tuesday 13 April 2021, 9.30 am

Venue:                         Regional House Chambers, 1 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga

Chairperson:               Cr Lyall Thurston (Bay of Plenty Regional Council)

Members:                    Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles - Whakatāne District Council, Deputy Mayor David Donaldson - Rotorua Lakes Council, Cr Jane Nees - Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Commissioner Stephen Selwood - Tauranga City Council, David Speirs Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency

In Attendance:            All presenters as listed in the minutes, Cr Kevin Winters, Cr Stuart Crosby, John Galbraith, Namouta Poutasi – General Manager, Strategy and Science, Amanda Namana – Committee Advisor

Please note that this meeting was recorded via Zoom and is available on Council’s YouTube channel for viewing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=71PI_DqKPP0

 

 

1.     Apologies

Nil

2.     Declaration of Conflicts of Interest

None declared.

3.     Reports

Information Only

3.1

Regional Land Transport Plan 2021-2031 Hearings

Tabled Document 1 - Late submission - NZ Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated: Objective ID A3779884

Tabled Document 2 - Late Submission - Waikato Regional Council: Objective ID A3775723

Tabled Document 3 - Late submission - Arthur Flintoff: Objective ID A3774366

General Manager, Strategy and Science Namouta Poutasi presented this item.

Key Points:

·        Noted one sentence in the report was blocked by a table.  The sentence on Page 5 of the agenda read ‘submissions for organisations and individuals are fairly well balanced’

·        The pie chart on page 5 was missing a submission and did not equal 100%.  The pie chart on page 6 should show 48% individual submissions and 52% from organisations/ businesses.

 

Resolved

That the Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee:

1        Receives the report, Regional Land Transport Plan 2021-2031 Hearings;

2        Receives and, if requested, hears late submissions to the draft Regional Land Transport Plan 2021 received after the closing date for submissions;

3        Receives tabled documents from submitters during the Hearings.

Thurston/Iles

CARRIED

 

 

4.       Hearing of submissions to the draft 2021-2031 Regional Land Transport Plan

 

Time

Name

Sub#

Organisation

 

9.40 am

Darlene Dinsdale

Key Points:

·       Seeking a speed reduction at State Highway 30 between Rotoiti and Rotomā, especially in the vicinity of the school, Te Kura o Rotoiti

·       Outlined the issues tangata whenua had experienced and the reasons a speed reduction was necessary:

The community consisted of three sports clubs, seven marae, one kura kaupapa and two kohanga reo

The marae, schools and sports grounds were all accessed via the state highway

The current speed limit was 80 km per hour, cars were often travelling at speeds of up to 120km per hour

There were children crossing the highway to beaches and playgrounds who were having to contend with drivers at these speeds, trucks and other hazards

Currently posted speed limits encouraged people to accelerate through housing areas, which posed a significant safety risk

There was a resilience issue in that when accidents occurred it caused congestion and blocked the highway, creating access issues for residents and motorists

There was also an increasing number of fatalities occurring in the area, highlighting that the current speed limit was inappropriate and unsafe - preventing further fatalities should be a priority.

In Response to Questions

·       Although this matter had been raised previously, there was frustration at a lack of action or guidance provided to progress this.

RLTP0014

Individual

9.46 am

Mayor Garry Webber, Deputy Chief Executive Gary Allis, Transportation Network Manager Jim Paterson and Senior Policy Analyst Matt Leighton presented this item.

Key Points:

·       Emphasised that the Regional Transport Committee was not an emissions trading committee

·       Requested the prioritised list of activities and the weightings used to determine this be revisited

·       Disagreed with the urban-centric nature of the document and a general lack of acknowledgement over the wider rural aspect of the region

·       Lacking a consideration of the different effects of density and distances

·       There was some recognition of modal choice in the Eastern Bay of Plenty but it needed to be applied further

·       Strongly supported any move to increase the volumes of freight being moved by rail and would like to see increased focus on making the rail network critical

·       Lack of focus on monitoring implementation when monitoring progress was a fundamental role of the committee

·       Expressed frustration over the lack of action for a Katikati bypass.

In Response to Questions:

·       Changing the weighting of resilience in the prioritised list would make some projects advance up the list and others to drop off.

RLTP0015

Western Bay of Plenty District Council

10.03 am

David Riley

Key Points:

·       Whakamarama had a large proportion of residents commuting to work and socialising in nearby urban areas, therefore transportation was a major issue

·       Pahoia and Whakamarama had a comparable number of residents to Ōmokoroa

·       Considered that the draft Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) focus was strongly on urban residents when the Western Bay of Plenty had many rural and semi-rural residents with transport needs.  These residents having equitable access to public transport options needed to be included in  order to meet the targets of the RLTP

·       There were currently many buses travelling past that did not stop in Whakamarama.

Key Points - Members:

·       Suggested that a park and ride facility could be located at Tawhitinui near the old Whakamarama shops, rather than at Ōmokoroa  or Te Puna so that residents did not have to drive to an urban area in order to catch a bus.

RLTP0021

Whakamarama Community Inc.

10.09 am

Commissioner Bill Wasley and Alistair Talbot

Key Points:

·       The submission centred around three key themes:

o A robust and brief process

o Telling a clear story nationally, highlighting the significance of climate change and the importance of rail

o Commentary around activity prioritisation

·       Would like to see cycling and safety added to the strategic interventions

·       Requested greater emphasis of the role of rail and electrification of bus fleets to reduce carbon emissions

·       Requested clarification of the prioritised list around when benefits could be expected and better explanation of project inter-dependencies

·       Suggested replacing the wording ‘Integrated Mass Transit System’ with ‘Frequent and Reliable Services’.

Key Points - Members:

·      ‘Frequent and Reliable Services’ and ‘Integrated Mass Transit System’ were different and the subcommittee would require further advise in considering this change in wording.

In Response to Questions:

·       Public feedback TCC had received in relation to the nature of public transport services provided was not necessarily supportive of the hub and spoke model, size of buses and the ability of these to negotiate certain streets and the lack of infrastructure in terms of bus shelters.

RLTP0035

Tauranga City Council (TCC)

10.26 am

 

 

 

 

Chief Executive Officer Nigel Tutt

Key Points:

·       The RLTP aligned with the Western Bay of Plenty Transport System Plan

·       A well-functioning transport system provided many benefits to the local economy including access to work, reducing emissions and particularly supported increased housing availability

·       Supported the emphasis on climate change and the transport network’s role in reducing carbon emissions

·       Further emphasis on freight would be prudent from a wider strategic view, as would a connection with the upper North island transport networks

·       Considered that the RLTP was too passive in general and could be bolder, particularly in terms of delivery in the first five years.

In Response to Questions:

·       From a business perspective, the prioritisation weightings may lean too heavily toward public transport

·       More consideration required for commercial sectors - businesses with service vehicles, heavy freight etc.

RLTP0025

Priority One

 

10.36 am – The meeting adjourned.

 

10.54 am – The meeting reconvened.

 

Presentation: Bike Tauranga: Objective ID A3779883   

Time

Name

Sub#

Organisation

10.57 am

Andrew Thorpe and supporters

Key Points:

·       More people on bikes more often was Bike Tauranga’s vision

·       Bike Tauranga advocate for cycling for many reasons including health, pleasure, to address the climate emergency,  to make Tauranga more liveable and ultimately because it was an essential part of a multi-modal transport future

·       Provided a map illustrating a Tauranga cycle network vision for the future, the key being that it was connected, direct and continuous - remaining safe within the cycling infrastructure for the entire journey

·       It was essential to have an arterial cycling network throughout Tauranga and to be successful this must consist of separated cycle paths

·       Requested that Bike Tauranga be involved with the process of creating a future vision to align with the development of cycling infrastructure

·       Considered that the arterial cycling network should be substantially complete within the RLTP timeframe (by 2030) in order to address congestion, increase liveability, meet emission reduction targets and to meet active transport targets in the RLTP.

Key Points - Members:

·       Noted that there was alignment with the vision of TCC but there were also significant gaps that need to be bridged.

In Response to Questions:

·       Differences in speed and differences in mass needed to be considered when designing  shared paths or lanes

·       Bike Tauranga’s vision was consistent with the national position held by groups such as Cycle Action Network.

RLTP0037

Bike Tauranga

11.14 am

John Robson

Key Points:

·       Plans needed to have budgets with specified funding

·       Acknowledging existing constraints and divergent objectives was key to strategic planning

·       Requested the subcommittee commit significant funds to ensure full and frank communications around the RLTP and its progress.

RLTP0038

Individual

 

Presentation - Wednesday Challenge: Objective ID A3779874

Carless Wednesday Video: https://youtu.be/aJtcwrFqp3U

Time

Name

Sub#

Organisation

11.25 am

Heidi Hughes and supporters

Key Points:

·       There was a real motivation in the community to be part of the solution

·       Tauranga was currently sitting between 5-7% mode share and the goal was to achieve 20% one day a week within a year.  Carpooling was an untapped resource in Tauranga and the goal was to have just 5% of people ride-sharing on a Wednesday, one day a week

·       Suggested that the project sit with Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s travel plan and worked closely with schools, neighbourhoods and organisations

·       The Wednesday Challenge App would be aggregated from existing Apps including the Transit App, Uber Commute, Love to Ride and FitBit Health Programme.

In Response to Questions:

·       The blueprint for the Wednesday Challenge Initiative was transferrable to other regions in the country.

·       The challenge was restricted to Wednesday to create tangible change

·       The project would highlight what the individual public transport or mode shift challenges were for each community.

RLTP0032

Wednesday Challenge Initiative

11.44 am

Glen Crowther

Key Points:

·       Reiterated the highest priorities as lowering carbon emissions, safer and more transport options, a strong focus on public transport in Tauranga and Rotorua and a connected and safe cycleway in Tauranga City

·       Did not believe the RLTP would deliver a 25% emission reduction

·       A critical issue was central government pushing a climate change agenda but not funding it.

RLTP0031

Sustainable Bay of Plenty Charitable Trust

 

Presentation - Ian Dustin: Objective ID A3779878

Tabled Document 4 - Architect's Design Description: Objective ID A3779881

Tabled Document 5 - Discussion Document: Objective ID A3779867

Time

Name

Sub#

Organisation

11.54 am

Ian Dustin and Mark Wassung

Key Points:

·       Suggested a stewardship surcharge of $5 per tonne to fund the Rangiuru log transfer station project

·       Needed a national stewardship arrangement for the export of logs so that the forestry industry paid for the scheme and not the taxpayers.

Key Points – Members

·       Noted that the use of methyl bromide was still under review by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).

In Response to Questions:

·       The project had been fully costed out, there was a contract on the land required and KiwiRail had designed the link.

RLTP0022

Rangiuru Industrial Developments Ltd

12.03 pm

Chief Executive Scott Hamilton and Chief Operating Officer Matt Glenn

Key Points:

·       Quayside Holdings were the leading developer of the Rangiuru Business Park, being built on 250 hectares of designated industrial land in four stages, each of which were approximately 35 hectares

·       In total, Quayside Holdings owned approximately 40 % of the land

·       Along with stormwater and wastewater infrastructure for the Park, Quayside Holdings needed to develop the interchange, structural roads within the park and an upgrade to existing roads in the area

·       In general, were supportive of the RLTP but would like to see the interchange, structural roads and the upgrade of existing roads included and prioritised in the RLTP and included in the Waka Kotahi Investment Proposal

·       The park would have multi-model transport links through the interchange, bus routes,  cycleways and walking trails.  It would also encourage low-carbon emissions through a number of initiatives

·       The growth of the Bay of Plenty region was limited by land availability for industrial development and by affordable housing.

RLTP0041

Quayside Holdings

 

Tabled Document 6 - Statement of Evidence - Mark Apeldoorn: Objective ID A3775706

Time

Name

Sub#

Organisation

12.12 pm

Transport Planner Mark Apeldoorn and Property and Infrastructure Manager Dan Kneebone

Key Points:

·       The port was continuing to experience strong growth to meet importers and exporters

·       Needed to ensure appropriate investment in the roading infrastructure to meet port demand and for customers and the public to move around the port

·       A large proportion of growth the port was experiencing was due to trans-shipments

·       The port was a long standing promoter of moving freight by rail where possible

·       Recurrent delays were still increasing.

Key Points - Members:

·       The port operated 24 hours a day and allowed for freight movements through quieter times through a vehicle booking system.

RLTP0026

Port of Tauranga

 

 

 

12.18 pm – the meeting adjourned.

 

Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee

Open Minutes (Day Two)

Commencing:             Wednesday 14 April 2021, 9.30 am

Venue:                         Mātaatua Room, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, 1 Quay Street, Whakatāne 

Chairperson:               Cr Lyall Thurston - Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Members:                    Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles - Whakatāne District Council, Deputy Mayor David Donaldson - Rotorua Lakes Council, Cr Jane Nees - Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Commissioner Stephen Selwood - Tauranga City Council, David Speirs - Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency

In Attendance:            All presenters as listed in the minutes, Namouta Poutasi – General Manager, Strategy and Science, Mat Taylor – General Manager, Corporate, Toni Briggs – Project Manager, Amanda Namana – Committee Advisor

Please note that this meeting was recorded via Zoom and is available on Council’s YouTube channel for viewing: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=szCT_VggE2k

 

 

 

 

9.30 am – The meeting adjourned.

 

9.33 am - The meeting reconvened.

1.     Apologies

Nil

2.     Hearing of submissions to the draft 2021-2031 Regional Land Transport Plan (Continued)

Tabled Document 7 - Ōpōtiki Marina and Industrial Park RLTP submission - Appendices: Objective ID A3783368   

Time

Name

Sub#

Organisation

9.34 am

Director of Ōpōtiki Marina and Industrial Park Chris Peterson and Tim Ferguson

Key Points:

·       Committed to digging out a basin to provide safe anchorage for boats exiting the river channel, berthage for aquaculture industry boats, wharfage for unloading and providing an area for boat maintenance and other marine based industrial developments

·       Currently had an accessway onto State Highway 2 which required an upgrade to the intersection, potentially involving a roundabout

·       Suggested a combined effort in installing the roundabout now to create a sound provision for the future, enhance safety and support economic development in the area

·       Supported the vision, key priorities and the objectives of the RLTP and sought that they be retained

·       Given the significance of the project and the range of benefits resulting from the construction of a roundabout, requested the access arrangements be added as an activity in the Waka Kotahi Investment Proposal

In Response to Questions:

·     The intersection improvements provided as part of the project were aligned with the objectives in the RLTP.

RLTP0033

 

Ōpōtiki Marina and Industrial Park Ltd

9.47 am

Mayor Judy Turner

Key Points:

·      Strongly supported the direction of the RLTP in general

·      Whakatāne District Council (WDC) had a particularly strong focus at present on climate change and active modes

·      Over the course of the Covid-19 lockdown, there had been increasing pressure from the public to get active transport initiatives right

·      Public opinion was that stopbanks should be used for walkways and cycleways

·      Also supported collaborative projects around identifying risk and adaptation planning across the region

·      Supported the intent of public transport in the RLTP but stressed that rural communities needed further consideration

·      Emphasised the need for a second bridge in Whakatāne, which would also greatly benefit Kawerau and Ōpōtiki, assisting with the number of heavy vehicles on the road and the civil defence risk in the event of an evacuation.

In Response to Questions:

·      In consideration of the weightings it was important to take a holistic view of the competing priorities

·      Three waters reform, affordability and supporting economic recovery was of particular importance to WDC.

 

RLTP0046

Whakatāne District Council

10.03 am

Piet Kil (via Zoom)

Key Points:

·      Operated as a bus driver for Whangamarino School, located between Mourea and Ōkere Falls

·      Had to bike to and from the bus as this was parked at the school overnight.  There was a narrow section of road between the boat ramp and school which posed serious safety concerns for cyclists

·      There was a plan for a shared walkway underway which should be prioritised

·      It was currently too unsafe for children living in Mourea to walk to school

·      No longer public transport options available from Mourea to Te Puke or Rotorua – requested these be reinstated.

 

 

Individual

 

10.11 am – the meeting closed.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Confirmed 28 May 2021                                                                                                                  

                                                                                                                                   Cr Lyall Thurston

Chairperson, Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee


Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes

9 April 2021

 

Rangitāiki River Forum

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing:             Friday 9 April 2021, 10:30 am

Venue:                         Mataatua Room, Bay of Plenty Regional Council Building, 5 Quay Street, Whakatāne

Heamana

Chairperson:               Maramena Vercoe - Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa

Ngā Kopounga

Members:                    Bay of Plenty Regional Council: Cr Bill Clark, Cr Kevin Winters, Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti, Via Zoom - Cr Stacey Rose

                                                      Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa: Miro Araroa, Tuwhakairiora O’Brien - attendance in part

                                                      Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa: Karito Paul - Alternate

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whare: Bronco Carson - Interim Member, Jose Miki - Alternate

Te Kotahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa: Whakaeke Ritete

Tūhoe Te Uru Taumatua: Ngapera Rangiaho

Whakatāne District Council: Cr Alison Silcock, Cr Wilson James - Alternate

Te Hunga i Tae Ake

In Attendance:            Bay of Plenty Regional Council: Chris Ingle – General Manager Integrated Catchments, Mieke Kapa – Land Management Officer, Fiona Wood – Programme Coordinator Integrated Catchments, Laura Albrey – Communications Partner, Shari Kameta – Committee Advisor; Jane Nicholas[1] – Trustee Observer, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whare, Maxeen Newton – Pou Taiao, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa; Whakatāne District Council: Cr Lesley Immink, Teryll Lepper – Senior Policy Planner; Sue Mavor – Taupō District Council, Hakahaka Hona, Crystle Hona, Heyden Johnston, Jen Spence – Trustpower Limited, Via Zoom – Dr Eimear Egan, Siobhan Nuri – NIWA

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies:                  Tuwhakairiora O'Brien (Alternate) – Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa; Clifford Te Riini, Paora Hunia (Alternate) - Ngāti Tuwharetoa (BOP) Settlement Trust; Cr Kylie Leonard, Cr Anna Park (Alternate) - Taupo District Council; Ngatoru Wall (Alternate) - Te Kotahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa

1.     Karakia Whakatuwhera
Opening Karakia

A karakia was provided by Miro Araroa.

Mr Araroa provided a mihi of welcome to interim member Bronco Carson, Trustee observer Jane Nicholas and public forum speakers Mr Hakahaka Hona[2] and Mr Heyden Johnston.

2.     Ngā Hōnea
Apologies

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Accepts the apologies from: Tuwhakairiora O'Brien, Clifford Te Riini, Paora Hunia, Cr Kylie Leonard, Cr Anna Park, Ngatoru Wall, Cr Stacey Rose (early departure) and Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti (late arrival) tendered at the meeting.

Clark/Rangiaho

CARRIED

3.     Wāhanga Tūmatanui
Public Forum

3.1

Mr Hakahaka Hona - Revitalising waka ama on the Rangitāiki awa

Presentation - Waka Ama o Rangitaiki: Objective ID A3774932

 

Mr Hakahaka Hona, Chairman of the Waka Ama o Rangitāiki Club (Club) gave a presentation on the revitalisation of the Club on the Rangitāiki awa.

Key Points:

·    The Club was formed in 2003 and based at Thornton Domain and had been active until it dissolved in 2013. It reformed again in 2017 but was impacted by the 2017 Edgecumbe Floods.

·    Club aims were to: promote, enhance and maintain tikanga and cultural traditions and a healthy and positive lifestyle for hapū and community.

·    A new committee elected in 2020 wished to revitalise the Club. Part of its business plan was to reconnect its members and community with the awa, reo and waka mauri.

·    Edgecumbe Lions Club had approached the Club with an offer of support and advice was taken up to move the Club’s base to Edgecumbe.

·    Benefits of moving operations provided closer locality with the Edgecumbe and Te Teko communities, including Edgecumbe College rangatahi, and would enhance community connections, wellbeing, hinengaro (health) and wairua (spirit).

·    Discussions were underway to recommence Club activities in October 2021.

·    Acknowledged past and present support of various organisations who had supported the Club, including Sports Bay of Plenty, Omataroa Rangitāiki No.2 Trust, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Edgecumbe College.

10:44 am – Cr Toi Iti entered the meeting.

·    Estimated costs of $100K would be required to restore Club operations.

·    Sought the Forum’s endorsement and support to revitalising the Club.

In Response to Questions:

·    Revitalising the river culture amongst whanau, hapū and iwi along the river was a key driver for the Club.

·    Noted future aspirations for river access points at Te Teko and Te Mahoe.

Key Points - Members:

·    Commended and supported the Club’s decision to move its operations to Edgecumbe, noting the social benefits it would bring to the community.

·    Acknowledged the Lions Club’s support of the Club and Rangitāiki River Festival.

·    Would like to see participation from Māori organisations and encouraged Forum partners to support the Club and Lions Club.

·    Sought communication and involvement with the Rangitāiki Hapū Coalition.

·    Would like to see waka ama extend further up the Rangitāiki awa.

·    The Chair signalled a future invitation to Mr Hona to collaborate further on this kaupapa.

·    Noted that the historical waka movements within the Rangitāiki Plains had been documented in a paper written by kaumātua Mr Waaka Vercoe.

 

3.2

Mr Heyden Johnston - Social and environmental concerns at the Rangitāiki River mouth

 

Key Points:

·    Thornton Domain at the Rangitāiki River mouth was a popular recreational resource for the community and numbers had grown considerably over the years.

·    Social behavioural issues at the Domain had increased over the past two years which included trail bikes in the reserve, speeding vehicles and criminal activity, which a large portion was occurring during the daytime.

·    Cleaning and disposal of fish waste into the awa in proximity of the wharf was also raised as a concern.

·    Concerns for safety had led to Ministry for Primary Industries officers and harbourmaster wardens being reluctant to carry out regular duties.

·    Mr Johnston had been working with Whakatāne District Council (WDC) and NZ Police on solutions to make the area a safer place for the community and had made a submission to WDC to seek funding and installation of security cameras.

·    Consequently, WDC were investigating options to improve the area to reduce undesirable activity, including options for security cameras.

·    NZ Police were providing some patrols to monitor the area which was having an impact.

·    Wished for all partner agencies to collaborate on the issues.

·    Sought the Forum’s support to assist and find solutions to alleviate the issues.

In Response to Questions:

·    The area had limited lighting at the wharf and the Police had advised that further lighting would significantly improve safety in the area.

·    Cameras would be used to provide data on visitor numbers. Road counters had been discussed, with no further decision made.

·    Signage on the wharf had been erected by Bay of Plenty Regional Council to discourage fish waste.

Key Points - Members:

·    Installation of road counters to gather data on visitor numbers would assist with decision making on resourcing and making improvements.

·    Lighting and CCTV cameras would have an immediate and positive impact.

·    Utilising the assistance of Māori wardens could alleviate social behaviour, as they were well respected in the community.

·    Issues had been raised at a previous Forum meeting in regard to providing toilet amenities on the eastern side of the river mouth.

·    The land on the eastern side of the river mouth belonged to the Department of Conservation.

·    Queried how tangata whenua were being involved in discussions.

·    Questioned whether configuration of the area needed to be reviewed to aid in reducing undesirable activity.

·    Wished Mr Johnston well on gaining the necessary funding from Whakatāne District Council to support the improvements that were required.

·    Acknowledged Mr Johnston’s father, the late George Johnston who had been a long standing and well respected member of the Forum.

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

Bronco Carson noted his interests as Chairman of CNI Iwi Holdings Ltd and a Director of Ngāti Whare Holdings Limited.

5.     Ngā Meneti
Minutes

Kia Whakaūngia Ngā Meneti
Minutes to be Confirmed

5.1

Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 4 December 2020

 

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Confirms the Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 4 December 2020 as a true and correct record, subject to the following amendments:

(a)  Minute Item 9.3, Forum Members Verbal Update – minor amendment to insert partner member organisation details that are missing on page 16 of the agenda; and remove typo errors - Te Rūnanga on Ngāti Manawa on page 17 of the agenda.

Silcock/Iti

CARRIED

 

 

Matters Arising

·      Minute Item 9.3 - Cr Clark sought further discussion in regard to his comment seeking consideration from Whakatāne District Council to improve the public amenities at Thornton Domain, and in support of Mr Johnston’s public forum address.

The Chair deferred the matter for discussion under General Business at the end of the meeting.

6.     Ngā Pūrongo
Reports

Ngā Whakatau e Hiahiatia Ana
Decisions Required

6.1

Chairperson's Report

Presented by:   Maramena Vercoe, Forum Chair

Cr Winters, Iti, Clark and Rose declared an interest in regard to the joint submission to the BOPRC’s Long Term Plan and advised they would abstain from discussion and voting on the matter.

Key Points:

·    The Forum’s endorsement was sought on the joint submission made to the
Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Long Term Plan for funding a shared resource to support the Forum and Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority Chairs, and the co-governance foras’ future work programmes.

·    Highlighted the need for future consideration of a work programme for the Rangitāiki River that would:

o Reflect Te Mana o Te Wai (TMOTW)

o Respond to significant changes signalled by the Three Waters and NPS for Freshwater Management

o Support kaitiaki and impacts on marae in regard to private water rights

o Link in with whānau, hapū and iwi on how to connect with the hierarchy of how the environment is managed

o Provide action on the enhancement of native tuna habitat, as referred to in s125 of the Ngāti Manawa Claims Settlement Act 2012.

o Provide support for future hydro dam re-consenting

·    Funding for a shared resource would be pivotal to how management of these issues from co-governance level to management level would occur.

Key Points - Members:

·    Working collectively as a Forum on shared commonalities added strength and did not take away the individual rights of each iwi and hapū to take their own actions.

·    Significant legislative changes were ahead that would impact on TMOTW and the Rangitāiki awa and catchment that required the necessary support.

11:40 am – Cr Stacey Rose left the meeting.

 

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Receives the report, Chairperson's Report.

2        Endorse the submission made to the Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Long Term Plan 2021-2031 (attached as Attachment 1).

Rangiaho/Ritete

CARRIED

 

Cr Winters, Cr Iti, Cr Clark and Miro Araroa abstained from voting.

 

 

6.2

Change in Membership and Appointment of a Deputy Chairperson

Presented by:   Maramena Vercoe, Forum Chair and Chris Ingle, General Manager Integrated Catchments

Key Points:

·    The Chair informed the meeting that Ngāti Whare members had advised that Ngāti Whare wished to fill the Deputy Chairperson position, however  the Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whare Board needed further time to consider their representation on the Forum.

·    The Chair therefore sought that the appointment of a Deputy Chairperson be deferred until the next meeting of the Forum.

Key Points - Members:

·    Bronco Carson clarified that his membership on the Forum was an interim position, to enable the Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whare Board to consider a more permanent arrangement and therefore consideration was sought from the Forum to accommodate the request.

11:45 am – Tu O’Brien entered the meeting.

 

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Receives the report, Change in Membership and Appointment of a Deputy Chairperson.

2        Confirms the appointment of Bronco Carson onto the Rangitāiki River Forum as the (interim) appointed member for Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whare.

Araroa/Iti

CARRIED

3        Defers the election of the Deputy Chair until the next meeting of the Rangitāiki River Forum.

Araroa/Rangiaho

CARRIED

Hei Pānui Anake
Information Only

6.3

Rangitaiki Catchment Programme November 2020 - January 2021 Dashboard Report

Presented by: Chris Ingle – General Manager Integrated Catchments

Key Points:

·    Science survey work in the Rangitāiki catchment had been delayed due to the new NPS for Freshwater Management and National Environment Standards regulations, but would continue with work next year.

·    Flood repairs were almost complete with the budget on track.

·    Wilding pine control had taken place above Matahina Dam, which had been supported by Provincial Growth Funding; and further long-term funding had been made available to continue this mahi.

·    Remediation on barriers to fish migration had been completed on over 50 structures to enhance fish passage.

·    Welcomed the Chair’s earlier comments during the Chairperson’s report regarding future transformation of the Rangitāiki River work programme.

Key Points - Members:

·    Noted a correction required to the Dashboard in regard to the Whakatāne District Council (WDC) - Lake Aniwaniwa update. Shared costs for installation of sails over the playground had been provided by WDC and Holly’s[3] Playground Committee, not the Galatea Reserves Committee.

Action for Staff Follow-up:

·    Request a presentation on whitebait inanga survey by Alastair Suren at the Forum’s next meeting.

Further discussion on security and amenity matters at Thornton Domain/Rangitaiki River Mouth was deferred to the end of the meeting.

 

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Receives the report, Rangitaiki Catchment Programme November 2020 - January 2021 Dashboard Report.

Silcock/Carson

CARRIED

7.     Whakaaturanga
Presentations

7.1

Update on Glass Eel Research on the Rangitaiki Awa - March 2021

Presentation - Understanding longfin and shortfin glass eel migrations from the ocean into the Rangitāiki Awa: Objective ID A3781937   

Presented by: Dr Eimear Egan - Freshwater Fish Ecologist on behalf of Siobhan Nuri - MSc PhD Student, NIWA (Via Zoom)

 

Key Points:

·    Extended thanks to the Rangitāiki Hapū Coalition, the Forum and locals for support during the June-December 2020 season of the Glass Eel Research Project.

·    Study aims were to gather data on the marine life and ecology of glass eel tuna, including main migration periods, species composition, oceanic and river conditions, and environmental factors relating to migration numbers.

·    Key findings from the research so far had identified:

o Majority of shortfin glass eel numbers into the Rangitāiki awa started in June, three months earlier than other parts of the country that began in September.

o 93% of all glass eels caught were shortfins (7% were longfins), with peak numbers caught in late July-early August.

o Highest catches of short and longfin glass eels were during ocean temperatures between 14-15.5°C, decreasing in higher temperatures.

o Higher catches were also made during maximum river flow discharges of 100 cumecs[4], identifying a migration trigger in relation to river flows.

·    Other achievements and activities undertaken by Siobhan included:

o Completion of a number of outreach activities with Edgecumbe, Otakiri and Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Te Orini ki Ngāti Awa primary schools, with further outreach events planned later in 2021.

o Presentation to the NZ Freshwater Sciences Society Conference in Waihopai, Invercargill in December 2020, where Siobhan had won an award for her presentation and contribution to conservation by Te Papa Atawhai, Department of Conservation. Thanks were extended to Larni Keylar, Hinerangi Eruera Murphy and Tu O’Brien for supporting Siobhan with conference preparation.

o Transitioning from a Science Masters to a PhD. Once confirmed, Siobhan would share her thesis proposal with the Forum at a future meeting.

·    Future work on glass eel research would include a further three years of research study, including a 6-month intensive study to capture low flow migration variability within the awa, and 10-days of scheduled events.

·    Five lamprey (piharau) had been caught and identified in July-August 2020.

·    Lamprey were a nationally threatened vulnerable species according to Department of Conservation’s threat classification system.

·    According to the NPS-FM, Bay of Plenty Regional Council would have to map the habitats of threatened species in the awa/region, which would include lamprey.

In Response to Questions:

·    Lamprey were parasitic and only fed in the ocean attaching themselves to whales or larger fish species. Adults entered the river to reproduce. No further information was available on juveniles and lamprey ecology.

·    There was no monitoring of glass eels in New Zealand to provide comparisons on longfin tuna existing outside of the Rangitāiki awa.

·    Did not have any data on mortality rates for long or shortfin glass eels.

·    Glass eels buried themselves in sediment after entering the river and remained there until they transitioned to elvers, where there was potential for a percentage of predator and natural mortality to occur.

·    Seasonal whitebait catches during mid-August had the potential to catch glass eels, which could have an impact on numbers if whitebaiters were unaware and/or did not release them.

·    Did not have an indication on numbers of tuna heke out to sea however, noted that future changes in rainfall may have a potential impact.

Key Points - Members:

·    Ngāti Manawa trap and transfer operation at Lake Aniwaniwa had recorded low numbers, noting the biggest concern of lake lowering having an impact on the programme.

 

7.2

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Long Term Plan Consultation 2021-2031

Presentation - Toi Moana 2021-2031 Long Term Plan: Objective ID A3766835   

Presented by: Councillors Bill Clark and Toi Kai Rākau Iti, supported by Councillor Kevin Winters

 

Key Points:

·    Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Long Term Plan (LTP) had been open for consultation from 22 February to 22 March 2021.

·    319 submissions had been received and hearings would be held over four days on 12-15 April in Tauranga, Whakatāne and Rotorua.

·    Council’s deliberations would be held in May and the LTP adopted in June.

·    Overall themes of the LTP were based on Council’s strategic priorities, a number of competing priorities within a complex environment, comprising:

o Regulatory reform in response to Government directions, which would be resource heavy for Council to bring into effect and implement.

o A regional recovery focus on job creation and transformational change across three separate economic sub-regions.

o Climate change - Regional Council had declared a climate emergency and would have a regional focus on adaption and mitigation, growing community resilience and implementing transformational shifts.

o Land use and transport – feedback had been sought on providing free region-wide public transport.

o Partnership with Māori – was a priority for Council to evolve and enhance partnerships and its Māori responsiveness framework, noting the Bay of Plenty region had the highest number of Iwi/hapū groupings.

o Council had a range of funding resources which community views and submissions had been sought on right funding levels and contestable funding.

o Focus on sub-regional levels and services to suit.

o Community participation and constructive relationships to meet the needs of the region.

Key Points - Members:

·    Noted a marked improvement in regard to Council’s environmental and social outcomes and engagement with its partners over a number of years.

·    Covid-19 pandemic had resulted in Government funding becoming available that had enabled and added value to a number of projects to support environmental and social outcomes.

8.     Whakahoutanga Kōrero
Verbal Updates

8.1

Forum Members' Verbal Updates

 

Whakaeke Ritete – Te Kotahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa (TKNT)

·      TKNT had signed a partnership agreement with the Ministry of Social Development for the development of wetland and marae which would create jobs for rangatahi.

·      Ngāti Te Hurunga had entered into a 5-year sponsorship agreement with Microsoft Office New Zealand to advance data technology improvements for the hapū.

·      Highlighted the involvement of local kura kaupapa who were providing kaitiaki roles by way of daily karakia and frequent visits to their waterways.

·      Tangata whenua had hosted the Prime Minister at Contact Energy’s new geothermal power station development at Tauhara near Taupō. A relationship had been formed with Tauhara hapū and the power station. Two hapū site monitors were overseeing site excavations, with potential for future employment training being investigated by the Tauhara Hapū Trust.

Karito Paul – Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa

·      Tuna heke was being carried out, involving two youth programmes facilitated by Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa that included mātauranga Māori and environmental conservation.

Miro Araroa – Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa

·      Rangitāiki Hapū Coalition were working through issues where some whānau were preventing Bay of Plenty Regional Council from undertaking work along the awa.

·      Commended Bay of Plenty Regional Council on making changes to their Komiti Māori Terms of Reference.

·      Changes had been made to Ngāti Awa and Department of Conservation’s
Te Tapatoru 
ā Toi joint management partnership for Moutohorā, Ōhope and Tauwhare Pā scenic reserves.

·      Opihi Whanaungakore urupa kaitiaki were pursuing an appeal to the consent granted for sub-division development at Opihi.

·      Ngāti Awa had job vacancies available including a Dairy Farm Manager.

Ngapera Rangiaho – Tūhoe Te Uru Taumatua

·      Acknowledged community and marae response to the Tsunami evacuation on 5 March 2021.

·      Waiohau Marae invited Pioneer Energy to present to the hapū and were still waiting for a response to discuss current resource consents and any future proposals for consent, including enquiries of historical areas of interest to Tūhoe.

·      Received a Galatea farmer’s resource consent renewal from Manawaru Tribal, Ruatahuna for comment. A site visit was organised with applicants. The outcome was a prepared cultural health index report sent to Manawaru Tribal, Ruatahuna and Te Kōmiti o Runga Tribal Ruātoki.

·      Tūhoe has an interest in the progression of Lake Aniwhenua walking track due to the proposed track passing through Te Houhi. Patuheuheu and Ngati Haka have heard the presentation from Cr Silcock and Shona Pederson who had been referred to Te Kōmiti o Runga Tribal for engagement, which was still pending.

·      Undertaking research on trout licencing process in liaison with Fish and Game and Department of Conservation.

Cr Alison Silcock – Whakatāne District Council

·      15-20 hectares of weed control spray had been completed at Lake Aniwaniwa on 14 December 2021, however had not taken effect until after Christmas and so considered that a long-term plan was needed.

·      The Galatea Trails Trust had been formed for the Lake Aniwaniwa walking track which Karito Paul had joined as a member.

Cr James Wilson – Whakatane District Council

·      Whakatāne District Council’s Long Term Plan was being released for consultation on 24 April and would be available for a 4-week period.

Tuwhakairiora O’Brien – Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa

·      Rangitāiki Hapū Coalition had formed a focus group to consider Te Mana o
Te Wai policy.

·      Hoped that the Whitebait regulations would take into account the need for a catchment based approach, such as varying whitebait seasons outside peak glass eel migration periods, as identified by the glass eel study presentation provided at the meeting.

·      An issue had arose at Thornton lagoon with people netting for mullet in the repo areas created for mullet breeding. Bay of Plenty Regional Council had been made aware and offered to erect signage to prohibit netting in this area.

·      Acknowledged whānau/hapū from Ngāti Manawa who had assisted with glass eel catches last year. The mahi was labour intensive and Forum partners were encouraged to participate and support this mahi.

·      Sought consideration to aid carbon footprint reduction by holding Forum hui in venues that enabled video-conferencing for members and staff.

·      Suggested that the issues being experienced along the Rangitāiki River by Rivers & Drainage staff could be assisted by having a contact list of local people who resided along various parts the river.

·      Kaumatua within Ngati Awa had provided in-principle support of the feasibility study to reconnect the Rangitaiki and Tarawera rivers through the original Te Awa o te Atua river pathway.

·      Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa would be submitting to the Whakatāne District Council’s Long Term Plan to seek toilet facilities on the eastern side of the Thornton river mouth. Mr O’Brien noted he would approach the Department of Conservation to ask for support for a piece of land for the facilities.

Maramena Vercoe – Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa

·      Raised concern in regard to the Water Services Bill, which Ngāti Manawa considered had been prepared on the basis that no one owns water which effectively ignored current debate around Māori rights in relation to water under Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

·      Ngāti Manawa had been approached by Pioneer Energy regarding the possibility of removing gravel from the delta at Lake Aniwaniwa to sell which Ngāti Manawa had opposed for environmental reasons, as the gravel provided habitat for tuna, particularly during the summer season.

·      Ngāti Manawa’s employment and training strategy was underway and working well, with employment opportunities being made available within the kiwifruit and truck driving industry.

·      Ngāti Manawa had hosted Trustpower at the Wheao Dam to share information on land utilisation.

 

8.2

Update on Resource Consent Application RM187-0211 - Renewal of Non-Scheme Erosion Protection Works within the Bay of Plenty Region

Presented by: Chris Ingle, General Manager Integrated Catchments

 

Key Points:

·    The update was a follow-on from the presentation provided to the Forum on 4 September 2020

·    The resource consent would be used by a variety of people to undertake erosion protection, remediation and enhancement work within non-scheme waterways.

·    Stakeholder engagement had commenced in February 2020 and the application was publicly notified for submission in November 2020 with the closing date extended to 15 February 2021.

·    Eight submissions were received, including from Ngāti Manawa, Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāi Te Rangi, Department of Conservation, Fish & Game and Forest and Bird.

·    Preliminary discussions were taking place with submitters prior to hearing of submissions anticipated in May/June 2021.

9.     Ngā Take Tōmuri Hei Whakaaroaro
General Business

9.1

Continuation of Item 8.3 Rangitāiki Catchment Programme November 2020-January 2021 Dashboard Report

Discussion continued regarding a matter reported under Item 8.3, Rangitāiki Catchment Programme November 2020-January 2021 Dashboard Report in relation to Whakatāne District Council’s (WDC) investigation into security and amenity matters at Thornton Domain/Rangitāiki River Mouth and further highlighted by Mr Heyden Johnston in the Public Forum.

Key Points:

·    Members supported the issues raised by Mr Johnston, alongside the need for public amenities on the eastern side of the river mouth that had been raised under Matters Arising from the previous minutes and by Mr Tu O’Brien under Members’ verbal updates.

·    The Forum had made an earlier letter of submission to WDC’s Annual Plan regarding the need for public amenities on the eastern side of the river mouth.

·    Land on the eastern side of the river mouth was owned by the Department of Conservation (DOC).

·    Mr O’Brien advised that he intended to approach DOC to seek their support, alongside a submission to WDC to seek support for installation and maintenance of some toilet amenities.

 

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1     Endorse a letter of submission to be made on behalf of the Rangitāiki River Forum to the Whakatāne District Council’s Long Term Plan 2021-2031, in support of the submissions made by Mr Heyden Johnston and Mr Tu O’Brien on behalf of Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa in regard to CCTV installation at Thornton Domain and public amenities on the eastern side of the Rangitāiki River mouth.

Carson/Araroa

CARRIED

10.   Karakia Kati
Closing Karakia

A karakia was provided by Miro Araroa.

1:37 pm – the meeting closed.

 

 

Confirmed 4 June 2021                                                                                                                   

                                                                                                                                 Maramena Vercoe

Chairperson, Rangitāiki River Forum


Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes

11 December 2020

 

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing:             Friday 11 December 2020, 9.30 am

Venue:                         Council Chambers, Regional House, 1 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga

Heamana

Chairperson:               Cr Matemoana McDonald  Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana (BOPRC)

Ngā Kopounga

Members:                    Tauranga City Council (TCC): Cr Kelvin Clout

Ngāti Pūkenga: Keepa Smallman

Western Bay of Plenty District Council (WBOPDC): Cr Mark Dean and Cr Grant Dally

BOPRC: Cr Norm Bruning; Cr Stacey Rose; Cr Paula Thompson and Cr Jane Nees (Alternate)

 

In Attendance:            BOPRC: Sarah Omundsen - Regulatory Services; Russell Knutson – Team Leader Western Catchments; Clarke Koopu – Senior Advisor (Treaty); Heidi Fraser – Programme Coordinator Integrated Catchments and Merinda Pansegrouw – Committee Advisor

TCC: Radleigh Cairns - Environmental Programme Leader

WBOPDC: Chris Nepia - Maori Land Officer 

Other:                          Dean Flavell - Chairperson of Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority, Colin Reeder - Ngā Potiki;

Public Forum Speakers- Discovery Through Nature: Emma Richardson; Kirsty Mckenzie; Tauranga Intermediate School students Aahana Narang, Emily Orr and Sophie Denham

Mobil Oil Representatives: Taz Tawhara, Andrew McNaught and Douglas Baua.

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies:                  Pia Bennett, Cr Heidi Hughes, Te Pio Kawe and Charlie Tawhiao

 

1.     Karakia Whakatuwhera
Opening Prayer

A karakia was provided by Keepa Smallman.

 

2.     Ngā Hōnea
Apologies

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1        Accepts the apologies from Pia Bennett, Cr Heidi Hughes, Te Pio Kawe and Charlie Tawhiao tendered at the meeting.

Rose/Bruning

CARRIED

 

3.     Wāhanga Tūmatanui
Public Forum

3.1

Tidal Discoveries, Citizen Science in the Bay of Plenty - Estuary, Dune and Stream Monitoring in and around Tauranga Harbour

Presentation 1 - DiscoveryThroughNature -Tidal Discoveries PDF: Objective ID A3696563   

 

Presented by Emma Richardson - Founder and Director, Discoverythrunature, and Tauranga Intermediate School students Aahana Narang, Emily Orr and Sophie Denham supported by teacher Kirsty Mckenzie.

Key Points:

·    “Tidal Discoveries” was a citizen science programme active in and around the Tauranga Harbour for the past four years, involving school students, parents and teachers

·    The programme had received all its funding from BOPRC three years ago through the Community Initiatives Fund (initial funding was for 10 schools, currently involved 13 schools), hence the update to the Advisory Group

·    Focus of the programme was to allow school aged children to learn out of the classroom, to spend time in nature and explore; learning by discovering – while building knowledge of Te Awanui, Tauranga Harbour and the catchments

·    Over time participants became connected to their own natural spaces and effective guardians/kaitiaki

·    Highlighted achievements to date

·    Collected information to monitor the health of the harbour and its specific areas; estuarine, freshwater and dune sites

·    Collaborated and shared data on the health of surveyed sites

·    Aahana Narang, Emily Orr and Sophie Denham shared key learnings, supported by Kirsty Mckenzie.

Key Points - Members:

·    Congratulated Emma Richardson and the Discoverythrunature team for the outstanding mahi supporting nature, guiding students and creating future kaitiaki

·    Council, through its Long Term Plan, was always looking for opportunities to invest in volunteers supporting the environment. 

 

Item for Staff Follow Up:

·    To investigate the development of a Story Board Project (“telling stories of environmental and cultural matters/significance to our communities”) and report back to the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group on potential cultural and environmental story board telling for the Tauranga Harbour Area.

 

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

None advised.

 

5.     Ngā Meneti
Minutes

Kia Whakaūngia Ngā Meneti
Minutes to be Confirmed

5.1

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes - 18 September 2020

 

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1        Confirms the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes - 18 September 2020 as a true and correct record.

Rose/Bruning

CARRIED

 

6.     Reports

 

6.1

Tauranga City Council Membership Change on Tauranga Moana Advisory Group

 

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1        Receives the report, Tauranga City Council Membership Change on Tauranga Moana Advisory Group;

2        Notes the resignation of Jako Abrie as a Councillor at Tauranga City Council; and

3        Notes the appointment of Councillor Heidi Hughes as the Tauranga City Council representative on the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group, replacing Jako Abrie.

Clout/Thompson

CARRIED

 

6.2

Appointment of New Representative for Tauranga Moana Advisory Group - Ngāti Pūkenga

Members extended a warm welcome to newly appointed Ngāti Pūkenga representative Keepa Smallman.

 

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1        Receives the report, Appointment of New Representative for Tauranga Moana Advisory Group - Ngāti Pūkenga; and

2        Notes the replacement of Kylie Smallman with Keepa Smallman as the interim representative for Ngāti Pūkenga Iwi ki Tauranga Trust on the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group.

Thompson/Dean

CARRIED

 

6.3

Ngā Potiki Membership Request

In view of the apologies received from Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāi Te Rangi representatives for today’s meeting, the consensus was that the item be deferred to the next meeting.

 

 

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1        Defers the report, Ngā Potiki Membership Request, to the next meeting of the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group scheduled for 9 April 2021.

Rose/Clout

CARRIED

7.     Whakaaturanga
Presentations

7.1

Te Maru o Kaituna River Document Presentation

Chairperson of Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority Dean Flavell presented on overview of Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority’s journey to date.

 

Key Points:

·      Referred to http://kaituna.org.nz

·      Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority was a co-governance partnership made up of both iwi and council representatives

·      Purpose of Te Maru o Kaituna (TMOK) was the restoration, protection, and enhancement of the environmental, cultural and spiritual health and well-being of the Kaituna River

·      Provided insights of value/key learnings from journey with entities coming together to become a partnership as a result of a Tapuika Claims Settlement

·      As useful preparation, Regional Council proactively started with the development of a strategy – provided the opportunity for relationship building which involved a lot of muscle flexing between different iwi groups

·      TMOK started off with the principle of using the “Meeting House“ as structure.  However, following a process of focussing on commonalities, the Authority ended up focusing on the principle “The river talks for the river” – as it was ultimately all about the protection of the river

·      Referred to Pare Hauraki’s involvement in the settlement process for Tauranga Moana and drew a similarity with Ngāti Whakaue (who had not settled yet either). Advised that in the interim, their involvement as informal participants around the table was critical and very valuable going forward; full participation around the table was to the benefit of all as well as the river

·      Important to develop capacity within iwi to participate in forums

·      Was willing to come back to attend a future meeting with the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group to talk about the development of the Kaituna River Document when the full complement of iwi representatives was present as this would be to the benefit of all

·      The Kaituna River Document provided a common purpose for all and had developed into Tini a Tuna: Kaituna Action Plan 2019-29

·      Benefits of co-governance was the “working together” part - all worked together to the benefit of the river. 

Key Points - Members:

·    Suggested that consideration be given to having a symposium in the Bay of Plenty, involving all co-governance forums to provide guidance/key learnings to others: evaluating the benefits of co-governance structures, considering the key dynamics of working together, inter-relationships between iwi/councils as a resource to help others (the hui ideally to involve forums such as RRF/TMOK/TMAG/Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes and relevant Waikato Groups, with the Bay of Plenty Regional Council as the common denominator)

·    Acknowledged the mahi/contribution by Dean Flavell in ensuring the success of Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority

·    Joint korero amongst co-governance groups in preparation of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 could be beneficial. 

 

Item for Staff Follow Up:

·    Future presentation to Tauranga Moana Advisory Group on the mahi undertaken by the Mauao Trust to create an awareness of the work done by the Mauao Trust and Tauranga City Council.

 

7.2

Tauranga Bunker Barge Project Presentation

Presentation 2 - Mobil Oil Bunker Barge Tanker Project: Objective ID A3696569   

Presented by representatives from Mobil Oil New Zealand Limited: Taz Tawhara - NZ Marine Fuels Sales Manager, Andrew McNaught - NZ Lead Country Manager & Lead Retail Sales Manager and Douglas Baua - MtM Terminal Manager.

 

Key Points:

·    Provided background to Mobil Oil New Zealand Limited, its presence in Tauranga and its engagement practices

·    Purpose of the presentation was to inform all members of the opportunity the Bunker Barge Project presented for Tauranga – accordingly shared plans relating to the Mobil Oil Bunker Barge Tanker Project

·    International Maritime Organization (IMO) convention MARPOL Regulations for the Prevention of Air Pollution from Ships by late 2021 – resulted in the current sulphur limit of 3.5 percent by mass for marine fuels to drop to 0.5 percent. This applied to all internationally-flagged vessels, and would likely apply to all domestic vessels from early 2022

·    Mobil had embarked on a scope of works to ensure its fuel terminals and marine fuels were compliant by the date of accession, including its operations at Port of Tauranga

·    Port of Tauranga was NZ’s largest port with future growth mindset – port was actively seeking increased barge bunkering service. Increased service would not increase traffic, but rather meet the current increased demand

·    State-of-the-art bunker barge had been built to comply with all international standards and designed to minimise marine pollution

·    Highlighted the benefits of the Anatoma (to be renamed “Korimako”)

·    Mobil’s vision: to pursue opportunities to encourage a better understanding of Te Ao Māori within the organisation

·    Anatoma (to be renamed “Korimako”) was scheduled to arrive in Tauranga Harbour in during January 2021.  Planned to have a blessing for the vessel shortly after arrival. Members of the Advisory Group also to be invited; would provide an opportunity to view facilities on the vessel

·    Further technical detail in terms of the mechanical ability of the vessel to mitigate any possible oil spills was available 

·    Noted that not all iwi representatives were present at the meeting.  Confirmed that Paora Stanley (Chief Executive of Ngāi Te Rangi) had been consulted in October 220. Requested that the PowerPoint Presentation be shared with all members. Invited any further discussion should members require further information.

 

Item for Staff Follow Up:

·    To distribute the Mobil Oil Bunker Barge Tanker Project PowerPoint Presentation to all members of the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group.

11:40 am - The meeting  adjourned.

12:05 am - The meeting  reconvened.

 

8.     Ngā Whakamārama a Ngā Rōpu
Update from Partners

8.1    Ngāti Pūkenga

Ngāti Pūkenga representative Keepa Smallman provided the following verbal update:

Key Points:

·      Ngāti Pūkenga iwi recently had the blessing of the opening of Te Kapua Orchard in Welcome Bay as part of a settlement agreement, in partnership with Seeka. It was a beautiful morning of kōrero, karakia, waiata and kai. The occasion symbolised new beginnings and new opportunities.  Thanked BOPRC for the role it had played in this process.  Discussions on the restoration of the wetlands were ongoing

·      With reference to the Ngā Potiki request to join the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group table, enquired (1) if other hapū had been given the opportunity to submit a request for a seat at the tēpu and (2) how the request could potentially impact on the Pare Hauraki settlement. 

Key Points - Members:

·    Noted that the deferral of the Ngā Potiki membership request to April 2021 would enable iwi representatives from Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Pūkenga and Ngāti Ranginui to consider the request and provide guidance to the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group at its next meeting in April 2021.

 

8.2

Update from Chairperson Matemoana McDonald

 

Chairperson Matemoana McDonald provided a verbal update on the latest news received regarding Tauranga Moana and Hauraki kaumātua kōrero on the Pare Hauraki settlement claims:

Key Points:

·    The first of what was likely to be a series of tikanga-based hui between the kaumātua of Hauraki iwi and the kaumātua of the iwi of Tauranga Moana took place at Paeroa at Te Pai o Hauraki Marae on 9 December 2020

·    Main purpose was to move towards restoring traditional relationships

·    Excellent progress had been made in terms of boundary agreements

·    Next hui scheduled in Tauranga Moana in January 2021

·    Further discussion regarding the Katikati-Te Puna purchase would also follow.

 

8.3    Western Bay of Plenty District Council

Cr Mark Dean, supported by Maori Land Officer Chris Nepia, provided a verbal update, highlighting the following:

 Key Points:

·      Successful completion of the return of ownership of Panepane Purakau Matakana Island back to the five Matakana Hapū – formalities took place at a Council meeting on 29 October 2020

·      Launch of Marae Kete  by WBOPDC to help marae in the district to address the practicalities of administering their marae. The digital resource was commissioned following requests by Tangata Whenua to WBOPDC to develop a toolkit to help the volunteers who manage governance at a marae level. The Marae Kete website was www.maraekete.co.nz. The use of information was free and could be downloaded from the website and shared among whānau and hapū

·      Katikati Wastewater Treatment Plant: The Alternative Options Working Group had a recent meeting to look at alternative options for the long-term discharge of the treated wastewater from the Katikati Wastewater Treatment Plant

·      Stormwater Consent for the western area had recently been granted by BOPRC

·      Funds from the Three Waters Review would be used to review wastewater treatment at marae

·      Walking and Cycling Action Plan had been adopted

·      Omokoroa Structure Plan underway

·      Review of Reserve Management Plan for Ford Road Reserve underway.

Key Points - Members:

·    Based on recent work undertaken by BOPRC as part of Plan Change 14 regarding the On-site Effluent Treatment Regional Plan, BOPRC and WBOPDC to share information relating to the review of wastewater treatment at marae

·    Commended and congratulated WBOPDC with the successful completion of the return of ownership of Panepane.

 

8.4    Tauranga City Council

Councillor Kelvin Clout highlighted TCC key work streams as follows:

Key Points:

·      TCC was currently progressing projects accepted for Three Waters Reform funding. Projects included progressing the provision of safe, quality drinking water to marae and associated facilities not currently serviced within the city boundary, wastewater pump station and pipeline renewals as well as projects that look to improve the quality of stormwater discharges to waterways and the harbour

·      Had asked residents to rethink their use of water outdoors and adopt water conservation habits early with the prospect of another hot and dry summer

·      Engagement on new water restriction levels commenced early October, alerting the community to the current water situation and encouraging businesses/residents to plan for respective water restriction levels.  Water processing and stream flow levels were being closely monitored and the TCC City Waters team were working with BOPRC moving closer to peak summer demand to ensure appropriate management of both treatment and source water capability

·      Public notification was currently underway for three plan changes to the Tauranga City Plan. Submissions to close on Monday 1st February:

Plan Change 26 proposed to make it easier for people to build a variety of more compact types of homes like duplexes, terraced houses and townhouses

Plan Change 27 proposed to ensure that future land use, subdivision and development within Tauranga was planned to be resilient to flooding, requiring the management of effects of flooding from intense rainfall on people, properties and infrastructure

Plan Change 30 proposed to clarify existing provisions to ensure earthworks were undertaken in a safe manner, avoiding negative effects on the environment

·      Had commenced with this season’s Industrial Pollution Prevention Audit Programme; in conjunction with Regional Council, staff were auditing sites in the Tauriko Industrial Estate for potential impacts on the surrounding environment from stormwater and air discharges

·      Wastewater Management Review Committee: expressions of interest for becoming a member of the Council’s Environmental Mitigation & Enhancement Fund assessment panel were open. Details and terms of reference for the panel was available TCC’s website. The panel would assess applications to the fund and make recommendations to the Wastewater Management Review Committee on eligible applications. Applications to the fund to open in January 2021 and guidelines on eligibility was available on Council’s website. The fund aimed to support initiatives that:

Avoided, remedied or mitigated the actual or potential effects of the Wastewater scheme

Acknowledged and provided mitigation by way of environmental compensation for ongoing adverse environmental effects associated with the wastewater scheme

Enhanced the environment which had been adversely affected by the wastewater scheme.

8.5    Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Cr Norm Bruning outlined BOPRC priorities as follows:

Key Points:

·      Tauranga Harbour Historical Sedimentation Modelling - NIWA, BOPRC and hapū representatives from Ngāi Te Ahi and Ngāi Tamarawaho recently completed the collection of 1m deep sediment cores from Waimapu, Tuapiro and Waikareao estuaries. The sediment cores would be processed by NIWA for radioisotopes of caesium, lead and radium to determine time-averaged sediment accumulation rates through time

·      Tauranga Harbour Nutrient Modelling - detailed nutrient modelling was being undertaken by a contractor to model inputs and sinks of nutrients in Tauranga Harbour to support development of the NPS Freshwater Management nutrient limits and objectives for freshwater to support estuarine ecological health

·      The new Mount Industrial Air Quality Working Party met for the first time on 7 December. The focus of the meeting was finding solutions to air quality issues in the Mount Industrial area

·      Industrial Discharge Compliance - three summer assistants would be undertaking industrial discharge compliance monitoring around the Moana, specifically Western Bay and Katikati

·      Sea Lettuce - in preparation for any beach cast sea lettuce this season, contractors had cleared key accumulation areas. No clean-ups have been required this season

·      Focus Catchments - summer water quality sampling for swimmability has commenced at key recreation sites including Kaiate falls, Kopurererua at McCord Avenue and Henry Road Ford (Uretara)

·      22 BOPRC supported Care Groups were currently active in the catchment. 16 of the groups have contributed a total of 17,175 hours during 2020

·      Maritime update:

New Harbourmaster Jon Jon Peters had taking over from Peter Buell

Summer patrols started Labour Weekend on Tauranga Harbour carrying out education and compliance of the BOP Navigation Safety Bylaws. Expecting a really busy summer on the water

Pre-summer maintenance of navigation aids had been completed

·      Kaimai Mamaku - proposal was called ‘Toward Thriving Kaimai Mamaku Forests’ (Endorsed by Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust and Steering Group) and included the following three projects which were all underway:

Double agency-funded animal pest control from $134,000 to $268,000 per year: this work included tripling the goat control efforts, implementing the Kokako Recovery Group’s recommendations for stoat, possum and rat control at Opuiaki, extending the bait station network around Ōtānewainuku and Ōtawa if possible, and continuing with triennial aerial 1080 control at Mokaihaha Ecological Area

Identifying and recruiting ‘hapū or community igniters’ to work at a flax-roots level around the ranges with hapū, whanau, care groups and the wider community to increase awareness of and planning for biodiversity and animal pest control work in the ranges, and a contracted programme manager to work with existing agency staff to oversee and assist with this process

Identifying additional sources of funding to ramp up works and implement the plans developed at a local ‘hub’ level through project 2

·      The Minister of Conservation recently announced a $19m funding package for the Kaimai Mamaku forests through its Jobs for Nature Programme. The objectives of this package were to substantially scale up animal pest control and biodiversity work in the ranges; to manage the threats posed by Kauri Dieback and other pathogens; and to build the capacity and capability of iwi/hapū in exercising their kaitiaki role in and around the forests together with the wider community.

 

 

9.     Ngā Pūrongo
Reports continued

Ngā Whakatau e Hiahiatia Ana
Decisions Required

 

9.1

Tauranga Moana Programme 2019/20 Annual Report

BOPRC’s Programme Coordinator Integrated Catchments Heidi Fraser presented the report.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·    “Audit of Mangrove Distribution and Associated issues for Tangata Whenua Project” (Page 52 of the agenda) - further detail to be provided to Cr Nees/feedback on progress to be provided to the Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Monitoring and Operations Committee

·    Presentation on progress made relating to Asian Paddle Crab numbers to be provided to a future hui of the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group

·    Connectivity/feedback on the Antenno Mobile Application between WBOPDC and BOPRC to be verified.

 

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1        Receives the report, Tauranga Moana Programme 2019/20 Annual Report.

Clout/Rose

CARRIED

10.   Whakahoutanga Kōrero
Verbal Updates

10.1

Water Shortage in the Bay of Plenty - Verbal Update

Presentation 3 - Water Shortage: Objective ID A3696574   

BOPRC's General Manager Regulatory Services Sarah Omundsen provided an update on dry weather water management in the Bay of Plenty.

 

Key Points:

·    Ministry for Primary Industries had declared a drought (large-scale adverse event) for all of the North Island – this was managed by Central Government

·    Consequently BOPRC had been focussing on a water-shortage event in the region due to the significant temporary shortage of water – impacting on cultural flows. Council had implemented a new procedure in 2019 to mitigate the situation

·    Overview of Regional Council’s procedures in dry weather events were available on the web site at https://www.boprc.govt.nz/our-projects/dry-weather-water-management

·    Climate change was bringing hotter, drier summers to our region, and natural water sources were already showing signs of stress. Flow levels in some western Bay of Plenty streams dropped to record lows in March – May 2020, following several months of exceptionally dry weather

·    Needed to forward-plan and reduce water use where possible, to keep local waterways, wildlife, and people’s lives and livelihoods healthy, now and in the future

·    BOPRC continued to provide updated information to TCC and WBOPDC for sharing with communities.

 

 

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1        Receives the verbal update, Water Shortage in the Bay of Plenty.

Bruning/Rose

CARRIED

 

10.2

Whareroa Marae - Verbal Update

BOPRC's General Manager Regulatory Services Sarah Omundsen provided a verbal update on progress made following a recommendation made to BOPRC and TCC on matters relating to Whareroa Marae air quality issues:

 

Key Points:

·    Further discussions with Paul Beverley had taken place following which it was recommended to TCC and BOPRC that an experienced RMA Planner be engaged; accordingly Phil Mitchell was now working alongside Paul Beverley

·    A meeting with Paul Beverley, Phil Mitchell and Whareroa marae representatives recently took place

·    Paul Beverley and Phil Mitchell would be invited to provide feedback to the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group in early 2021.

 

 

11.   Rā Hui Whai Ake: 9 April 2021
Next Meeting Date: 9 April 2021

 

12.   Karakia Kati
Closing Prayer

A karakia was provided by Keepa Smallman.

 

 

1:10 pm – the meeting closed.

 

 

 

 

 

Confirmed 11 June 2021                                                                                                                 

                                                                                                                     Cr Matemoana McDonald

Chairperson, Tauranga Moana Advisory Group


Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee Minutes

28 May 2021

 

Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee

Open Minutes

Commencing:             Friday 28 May 2021, 9:30 am

Venue:                         Regional House Chambers, 1 Elizabeth St, Tauranga

Chairperson:               Cr Lyall Thurston - Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Members:                    Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles - Whakatāne District Council, Deputy Mayor David Donaldson - Rotorua Lakes Council,
Cr Jane Nees - Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Commissioner Stephen Selwood – Tauranga City Council, David Speirs - Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency

In Attendance:            Bay of Plenty Regional Council: Namouta Poutasi – General Manager, Strategy & Science, Rachel Boyte – Legal Counsel, James Llewellyn – Transport & Urban Planning Manager, Rachel Pinn – Contractor, Lorraine Cheyne – Senior Transport Planner, Amanda Namana – Committee Advisor

                                    External: Alistair Talbot - Team Leader: Transport Strategy & Planning (Tauranga City Council), Cole O’Keefe – Lead Strategic Planner (Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency)

Apologies:                  Nil      

 

Please note that this meeting was recorded via Zoom and is available on Council’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zK16w9ewV74

 

9:00 am – The meeting adjourned.

 

9:35 am – The meeting reconvened.

 

1.     Declaration of Conflicts of Interest

None declared.  David Speirs clarified that his position at Waka Kotahi had no decision making role in respect of the Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) or National Land Transport Fund (NLTF) processes.

2.     Minutes

Minutes to be Confirmed

2.1

Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee Minutes – 13-14 April 2021

 

Resolved

That the Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee:

1        Confirms the Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee Minutes – 13-14 April 2021 as a true and correct record.

Iles/Nees

CARRIED

 

3.     Reports

Decisions Required

3.1

Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) Deliberations - Regional Programme and Prioritised Activities

Presentation: RLTP Prioritised Programme of Significant Activities: Objective ID A3820587   

Contractor Rachel Pinn and Transport & Urban Planning Manager James Llewellyn presented this item, supported by Tauranga City Council Team Leader: Transport Strategy & Planning Alistair Talbot.

Key Points:

·          Noted corrections on page 18 of the agenda: the weighting for integrated freight and regional resilience should read 15% and better travel options should read 30%

·          The Transport Special Interest Group (TSIG) methodology was developed in conjunction with Waka Kotahi and specifically for the RLTP prioritisation process – adopting the TSIG prioritisation approach was agreed by the Regional Transport Committee

·          The scores against the four investment priority objectives were as relevant as the weightings themselves

·          A fundamental consideration was getting the prioritised list aligned with the Government Policy Statement (GPS) and with the climate emergency declared

·          Concerns had been expressed from the mayor of Western Bay of Plenty District Council about changes made to the criteria weightings, after which a number of different scenarios were introduced and discussed.

·          Congestion on the network was a reflection of the high number of people in single occupancy vehicles

·          Although freight and resilience were important, there were not a significant amount of projects on the list that were freight specific

·          Outlined the different outcomes of the top ten projects when the scenarios were altered.

Key Points - Members:

·           An important consideration was how projects contributed to accelerating the provision of housing and connectivity to jobs

·           Expressed concern raised that freight and resilience had not been given sufficient weighting considering the significance of small businesses in Tauranga

·           Noted that car-pooling and working from home were also travel options

·           It was important to understand the implications of the weightings on both the full list and the activities list.

In Response to Questions:

·        Clarified ‘better travel options’ from the perspective of the user by having better levels of service, i.e. having options available that were more convenient or not previously offered and gave people more choice including performance of existing bus services (reliability, speed etc.)

·       Projects and activities put forward with each scenario, particularly those aimed at better travel options had within them a mandate to understand dealing with growth as promoted through spatial planning, SmartGrowth and activities around priority development areas

·       Projects which promote better travel options and mode shift for people in single-occupancy private car benefit freight / commercial movements by freeing up existing road space for these journey purposes.

10:30 am – The meeting adjourned.

10:50 am – The meeting reconvened.

Key Points – Members (Continued):

·        Outlined areas of significance to Tauranga City: the importance of small businesses, transport connectivity to housing, economic development, Port of Tauranga, traffic congestion and the impact on quality of life

·        Needed to balance the equally critical issues of climate change, a shift to alternative modes, addressing safety, freight and regional resilience.

In Response to Questions (Continued):

·    Hewlett’s Road sub-area accessibility improvements had been linked with the Totara Street multi-modal project.

11:32 am – The meeting adjourned.

11:40 am – The meeting reconvened.

Key Points (Continued):

·    Staff outlined reasons for recommending Scenario 1 as the best approach – the prioritisation weightings that went out for public consultation in the draft RLTP:

There was evidence of broad support for the RLTP investment strategy, mode shift and prioritised programme

Strong consistency with the GPS and climate emergency, whilst retaining a balance of activities

Reflected key initiatives such as Urban Form and Transport Initiative (UFTI) and Tauranga Transport System Plan (TSP)

Regional Advisory Group (RAG) officers from across the region were generally supportive

No pushback from Waka Kotahi and positive feedback received on the draft RLTP

Very little time to significantly change the investment narrative in the RLTP document

Changes to the order of activities could have implications for programming (inter-dependencies)

·    Scenario 4 would likely promote activities that were longer term at the expense of other activities that were closer to being ready, it also raised an issue for some important inter-dependencies between projects becoming less likely.

 

Moved

That the Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee:

1        Approves Scenario 4 - in Appendix 1 of this paper - as the list of prioritised activities in the RLTP;

Selwood/Thurston

Division

A division was called:

For

Selwood

Thurston

Against

Donaldson

Iles

Nees

Speirs

 

The motion was lost

Resolved

That the Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee:

1        Receives the report, Regional Land Transport Plan Deliberations- Regional Programme and Prioritised Activities;

2        Approves Scenario 1 - in Appendix 1 of this paper - as the list of prioritised activities in the RLTP;

Thurston/Donaldson

Division

A division was called:

For

Donaldson

Iles

Nees

Speirs

Thurston

Against

Selwood

The motion was carried

 

3        Endorses the inclusion of the Katikati bypass as an unfunded activity in a separate table;

4        Endorses the inclusion of a line item for the speed management review within the programme section;

5        Prioritises significant activities in Tables 7-12 of the RLTP according to their ranking in their respective activity classes and amends their regional priority in Appendix 4 of the RLTP accordingly;

6        Endorses the inclusion of the indicative timing and national profile of prioritised activities where this information is available;

7        Updates the single integrated list in RLTP Appendix 4 showing the ranking of activities across all activity classes, according to how they measured against the ten year transport priorities;

8        Acknowledges the work and contribution of the Regional Advisory Group.

Thurston/Iles

CARRIED

 

3.2

Regional Land Transport Plan 2021 -2031 Deliberations

Presentation: RLTP Public Consultation Submissions: Objective ID A3820586   

Transport & Urban Planning Manager James Llewellyn and Senior Transport Planner Lorraine Cheyne presented this item.

Key Points:

·        Commended the quality of submissions and ideas that came through

·        Specific points under each theme relating to an activity or a new line item were put under the activities list so they could be considered individually

·        For the key theme of Inclusive Access, more non-car access options included people that did not have the option of owning and running a car

·        Noted strong support from local businesses for a low carbon economy

·        The importance of freight to the regional economy, access to ports and being able to move freight through well connected multi-modal hubs needed to be strongly reflected in the narrative

·        Decarbonisation of buses provided an opportunity for existing businesses to develop a cluster of economic activity around low carbon initiatives

·        Supporting cycle tourism across the entire region in the narrative was important

·        There was some diversity in submissions from people wanting more direct investment into resilience activities and others that were concerned about the cost of those activities

·        A key challenge with articulating resilience in the RLTP was that although it was crucial to plan for, there was no guarantee that the investment would be necessary.

Key Points - Members:

·        The public were becoming more open to mode shift, providing that the supporting infrastructure was in place

·        Having a low carbon back story to any enterprise was beneficial to business.

In Response to Questions:

·        Safety would be added as a strategic intervention to Table 4

·        The narrative for electric vehicles would include charging infrastructure.

·        The Rail Network Investment Programme was primarily focused on improving resilience of existing assets through maintenance of tracks etc.  Investment on additional capacity was mostly limited to Auckland and Wellington, although discussion was underway around a business case for passenger rail between Tauranga, Hamilton and ultimately Auckland

·        Page 75 of the agenda – ‘accept in part’ referred to activities which had been brought forward after the prioritisation, therefore were unable to be included in the list of prioritised activities and would go into the RLTP as un-prioritised.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up

·        Check that stock effluent disposal facilities would be addressed through a Council discharges plan and update members.

Amendments:

·       Insert a footnote to explain inconsistencies between targets in the RLTP and the targets in the Road Policy Action Plan and Road to Zero

·       Strengthen narrative around urban and rural ability to make mode shift adjustments to reflect that the KPIs are net across the entire region

·       Hapū to be added to the Inclusive Access recommendation where it referred to iwi engagement

·       Investment in housing needed to be more strongly reflected and recognition of commercial trips should be added to the recommendations on Economic Prosperity

·       Page 88 – amend ‘enable quality urban development’ to ‘support quality urban development’.

 

Resolved

That the Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee:

1        Receives the report, Regional Land Transport Plan 2021 -2031 Deliberations;

2        Endorses proposed changes to the Regional Land Transport Plan document as outlined in this report including the amendments as noted in the minutes;

3        Delegates to the Group Manager, Strategy and Science the authority to make any further minor alterations or corrections to the Regional Land Transport Plan;

4        Recommends submission of the draft final document to the next meeting of the Regional Transport Committee for endorsement;

5        Commends the work undertaken by staff in summarising submissions.

Thurston/Donaldson

CARRIED

 

12.59 pm – the meeting closed.

 

 

Confirmed 16 June 2021                                                                                                                 

                                                                                                                                   Cr Lyall Thurston

Chairperson, Regional Land Transport Plan Hearings Subcommittee


 

 

 

Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

24 June 2021

Report Authoriser:

Doug Leeder

 

 

Chairperson's Report

 

Executive Summary

Since the preparation of the previous Chairperson’s Report (for the 20 May 2021 Council meeting) I have attended and participated in a number of meetings and engagements as Chairperson on behalf of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC).

This report sets out those meetings and engagements, outside of Council, Committee and Sub-Committee meetings, and highlights key matters of interest that I wish to bring to Councillors’ attention.

 

Recommendations

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Chairperson's Report.

 

1.        Purpose

The purpose of this report is to update Council on meetings and engagements, outside of Council, Committee and Sub-Committee meetings, I have attended and participated in as Chairperson.  Also to highlight key matters that will be of interest to Councillors.

The following section summarises these meetings and engagements. I will provide further detail at the meeting in response to any questions you may have.

 

2.        Meetings and Engagements

Date

Meeting / Engagement

Comment

12 May

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Long Term Plan Deliberations – Tauranga

Attended.

13 May

Sub-Regional Housing Action Plan Meeting – Tauranga

Hosted by Tauranga City Council.

Three Waters Meeting - Teleconference

Mayors, Chairs and Chief Executives updated on the Three Waters Programme.

Meeting with Bay of Conservation Chief Executive and Chairperson – Tauranga

Discussed the Jobs for Nature programme.

14 May

Ahuwhenua Dairy Programme 2021 Awards Dinner – New Plymouth

A celebration on the finalists and winner of the Ahuwhenua Trophy, Excellence in Māori Farming Award 2021 for Dairy – Tataiwhetu Trust.

19 May

Meeting with Wai Kokopu Governance Board and Operations Team  - Pongakawa

Discussed Wai Kokopu which is the programme for Te Waihī Estuary (Pukehina).

21 May

National Council meeting – Wellington

Attended.

25 May

Institute of Directors Breakfast Event – Tauranga

Discussed building governance capability in the Bay of Plenty.

26 May

Meeting with Kevin Lavery, General Manager, Sector Consulting, Taituara – Tauranga

Discussed the Waikato/Bay of Plenty Water Reform Consortium.

27 May

National Council – Teleconference

Attended.

Freshwater Implementation Group – Teleconference

Attended.

Three Waters Update – Teleconference

Update meeting for Mayors, Chairs and Chief Executives.

Port of Tauranga Ltd Board Farewell Dinner for outgoing Chief Executive Mark Cairns – Mount Maunganui

Attended.

28 May

Port of Tauranga Ltd Meeting – Mount Maunganui

Attended.

1 June

Jobs for Nature Reference Group Meeting – Teleconference

Attended.

3 June

Ōpōtiki District Council Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Deliberations – Ōpōtiki

Spoke to the Regional Council submissions on the Ōpōtiki District Council Long Term Plan.

Sub-Regional Housing Action Plan Meeting – Tauranga

Hosted by Tauranga City Council.

Port of Tauranga Ltd Board meeting with Tauranga City Council Commissioners – Tauranga

Attended.

Stakeholder Retirement event for outgoing Port of Tauranga Ltd Chief Executive, Mark Cairns – Mount Maunganui

Attended.

4 June

Budget (2021) Breakfast with Rachel Brooking, Labour List MP - Whakatane

A breakdown of the 2021 Budget – Securing our Recovery.

8 June

Jobs for Nature Reference Group Hui – Teleconference

Attended.

Project Rerewhakaaitu Annual General Meeting - Rerewhakaaitu

Attended.

9 June

Local Government New Zealand Meeting – Wellington

Discussed Three Waters Programme.

10 June

Rural and Provincial Meeting – Wellington

Attended opening of the meeting, and Minister for the Environment Hon David Parker’s presentation on the Resource Management System Reform.

Meeting with Port Taranaki Board – Mount Maunganui

Invited by Port Taranaki Chief Executive to meet and dine with the Port Taranaki Board while they are here visiting a number of customers and stakeholders to gain an appreciation of other port and regional activities.  Fiona McTavish also in attendance.

14 June

Future for Local Government Workshop - Rotorua

The Future for Local Government Panel are meeting with Elected members, Community Board members and senior staff from the regional councils for an initial “sounding” on the future for local government.

 

 

 


 

 

 

Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

24 June 2021

Report Writer:

James Llewellyn, Transport & Urban Planning Manager

Report Authoriser:

Namouta Poutasi, General Manager, Strategy & Science

Rob Donald, Science Manager

Purpose:

To request adoption of the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan on behalf of the Regional Transport Committee

 

 

Adoption of the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021

 

Executive Summary

Over a year and a half in development, the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) has been endorsed by the Regional Transport Committee (RTC) and is now ready for Council adoption.  The RLTP must be submitted to Waka Kotahi by 30 June 2021.

The RLTP meets all relevant statutory requirements and a thorough process has been enabled development of the document and its prioritised programme.  The RLTP was developed in conjunction with the Regional Advisory Group (made up of officers from local councils and Waka Kotahi). 

Public consultation on the RLTP draft document / prioritised programme occurred during March and April 2021.  The consultation was viewed by 8,629 Facebook users.  A total of 49 Submissions and approximately 400 individual points have been received.  Twelve people made requests to be heard in person.  At its meeting on 28 May, the RLTP Deliberations sub-committee endorsed changes for RTC to consider – which included weightings for the four activity prioritisation criteria.  At its meeting on 09 June 2021, RTC endorsed the panel recommendations.

This report summarises:

·           The legislative requirements for producing the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP) and compliance with legislative;

·           The timeline of work that was undertaken to produce the RLTP; and

·           Key highlights of the RLTP.

 

Recommendations

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Adoption of the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021;

2        Adopts the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021 for the purpose of submission to Waka Kotahi, based on Regional Transport Committee endorsement including the prioritised programme of significant activities with the criteria weightings recommended by the Deliberations sub-committee;

3        Agrees that final corrections (limited to grammatical / typographical errors and necessary updates to financial information) before document submission can be delegated to the General Manager Strategy & Science.

 

1.        Introduction

Regional Land Transport Plans (RLTPs) are six-year investment strategies that set out a regions' proposed land transport objectives, policies and activities (projects) which include a statement of transport priorities for the region. The plans incorporate programmes of regional land transport activities, including those activities proposed for inclusion in the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) which is prepared by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency.

1.1      Legislative Framework

1.1.1    Approval Requirement

The Land Transport Management Act 2003 (LTMA) requires Regional Councils to ensure that the Regional Transport Committee (RTC) prepares a Regional Land Transport Plan (RLTP).

Before an RTC submits an RLTP, it must be satisfied that the Plan:

a)   Contributes to the purpose of the LTMA;

b)  Is consistent with the Government Policy Statement on Land Transport (GPS);

c)   Has considered alternative regional land transport objectives that would contribute to the purpose of the Act;

d)  Has considered the feasibility and affordability of those alternative objectives;

e)   Has taken into account any national energy efficiency and conservation strategy;

f)   Aligns with relevant national policy statements and relevant regional policy statements or plans; and

g)  Has taken into account any likely funding from other sources.

1.1.2    Structure and Content

Section 16 of the LTMA requires that an RLTP sets out the region’s land transport objectives, policies and measures.  Furthermore an RLTP must include:

a)   A statement of transport priorities for the region;

b)  Financial forecast of anticipated revenue and expenditure on activities;

c)   All regionally significant expenditure on land transport activities to be funded from sources other than the national land transport fund; and

d)  An identification of those activities (if any) that have inter-regional significance.

1.2      Alignment with Strategic Framework

A Healthy Environment

We develop and implement regional plans and policy to protect our natural environment.

Safe and Resilient Communities

We work with communities and others to consider long term views of natural hazard risks through our regional plans and policies.

A Vibrant Region

We lead regional transport strategy and system planning, working with others to deliver a safe and reliable public transport system.

The Way We Work

We look to partnerships for best outcomes.

 

1.2.1    Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

High - Positive

þ Cultural

Low - Positive

þ Social

High - Positive

þ Economic

High - Positive

Environmental – significant emphasis on activities to mitigate and adapt to climate change.

Cultural – recognition of the need for significant community engagement / involvement in RLTP investments.

Social – high priority given to activities which improve access to jobs and essential services.

Economic – strong emphasis on tackling congestion and improving reliability for freight.

2.        RLTP Work Undertaken

2.1      Timeline

Production of the RLTP commenced in December 2019, and concludes with the adoption of the document at this meeting.  The following table summarises the key work that has been undertaken to produce the RLTP:

Date

Key Work

December 2019

RTC meeting approves tactical review of existing RLTP to inform production of the 2021 document.

February 2020

The tactical review is reported to RTC and focusses on investment priorities and development of a prioritisation approach.

May 2020

RTC gives feedback on the vision, problems, benefits and objectives requested a workshop.  Councils commit to funding proposals through LTPs and Annual Plans.

June 2020

RTC workshop amends the wording of the vision, problems, benefits and objectives.

August 2020

RTC meeting confirms changes from the workshop and notes timing of the GPS having implications on draft consultation.  RTC agrees to adopt the Transport Special Interest Group (TSIG) prioritisation methodology for significant activities.

October 2020

Regional Advisory Group (RAG) of council technical officers provides assessment scores for proposed significant activities (over $2 million in total value).

November 2020

RAG meets to moderate scores and apply prioritisation criteria weightings.  Draft RLTP document released to Waka Kotahi and stakeholders for initial feedback.

December 2020

RTC workshop met to discuss the draft RLTP document and prioritised list of significant activities.  Reflected on recent Government Climate Change declaration announcement and sought greater alignment between document and prioritised list – with the latter being more road investment focussed.

January 2021

RAG officers meet to discuss and agree a new programme of significant activities, based on revised criteria weightings.

February 2021

RTC workshop discusses the revised draft programme of significant activities; and some members express concern about the changes to the prioritisation.  RTC meeting agrees to adopt the RLTP draft document and prioritised programme (which included revised weightings) for public consultation.  RTC agrees to form a Deliberations sub-committee to undertake hearings and consider submissions.

March – April 2021

Public consultation takes place under the Special Consultative Procedure of the Local Government Act 1982.  A total of 49 submissions and over 400 individual points of feedback are received.

April 2021

The Deliberations sub-committee meets to undertake public hearings for 12 submitters.

May 2021

The Deliberations sub-committee meets to consider proposed changes to the document as a result of the submissions.  The sub-committee agrees to retain the prioritisation criteria weightings used for the draft RLTP.

June 2021

RTC endorses the final draft RLTP, and the prioritised programme of significant activities (which included the same criteria weightings used in the draft RLTP), for submission to the 24 June Regional Council meeting.

2.2      RLTP Key Highlights

2.2.1    Vision

The agreed RLTP vision adopted by the RTC is:

2.2.2    Objectives

The agreed RLTP objectives adopted by the RTC are outlined below:

2.2.3    Strategic Interventions

The RLTP strategy proposes to prioritise the following strategic interventions for investment:

2.2.4    Proposed Investment Programme

The proposed investment programme is approximately $3 billion over the next six financial years.  The following chart summarises the breakdown by National Land Transport Fund (NLTF) activity class.

Final funding decisions are made by Waka Kotahi as part of the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP).  Therefore none of the funding proposed in the RLTP will be confirmed until August.  Given the financial pressures being experienced by Waka Kotahi, it is anticipated that actual NLTP funding allocations may be substantially lower than the proposed $3 billion of investment.

2.2.5    Further Information

The final draft RLTP is attached to this report.  The prioritised list of significant activities is set out in Appendix 4 of this final draft.

2.3      Statutory Requirements

The final draft document (Appendix 5) sets out how the RLTP meets the requirements of the LTMA.

3.        Considerations

3.1      Risks and Mitigations

Timeframes are tight and the final document must be submitted to Waka Kotahi by 30 June 2021.  Any late amendments to the document would impact on this timeline.

There is close scrutiny of the development of all Regional Land Transport Plans nationally.  Most if not all Regional Councils have received LGOIMA requests regarding how the RLTP is consistent with the GPS.  There continues to be a high risk delivering the final RLTP to Waka Kotahi by the June 2021 deadline.

3.2      Climate Change

The draft RLTP 2021 consultation document, the Statement of Proposal and the consultation questions featured a significant focus on climate change.  The RLTP prioritisation includes climate change as one of the ten-year investment priorities. There are activities within the programme that will contribute to adaptation or mitigation of the impacts of climate change.

3.3      Implications for Māori

The development of the RLTP sets out the region’s proposed land transport programme and seeks funding for activities included. Therefore, the RLTP has a range of impacts on Māori and Council partnerships with Māori. It is vital that the formulation of the RLTP considers and reflects Māori aspirations. The RTC has engaged with Māori through consultation processes, including requests for iwi submissions, and via the provision of information through targeted engagement. It is also recommended that the RTC continues to engage with both iwi and hapū as part of its on-going work programme, in addition to the engagement that will occur on a project-by-project basis, to continue to identify and respond to impacts on Māori of any land transport activities.

3.4      Community Engagement

Adobe Systems

CONSULT

Whakauiuia

To obtain input or feedback from affected communities about our analysis, alternatives, and /or proposed decisions.

 

Consultation was carried out under section 83 of the Local Government Act 2002.  Specific Communications and engagement included:

·   Staff meeting with various organisations.

·   Invitations to various entities and organisations to submit on the draft RLTP (letter/email) including community groups.

·   Leveraging off organised Long Term Plan events during LTP consultation.

·   A social media campaign saw:

-   Facebook (paid) advertisement 13,793 impressions, seen by 8,629 people and 176 click throughs from the ad to the RLTP Hive website pages.

-   Facebook (organic) advertisement with 3,050 people reached and 90 engagements.

·   Advertisements appeared in:

-   Rotorua Weekender (30,000 circulation).

-   Whakatāne Beacon (22,000 circulation).

-   Weekend Sun (60,000 circulation).

·      Published advertising in 2 e-panui, also appeared in “Around the Rohe” and “Council Kōrero” newsletters.

·      95 iwi were emailed: to LTP stakeholder list in conjunction with the LTP advising that RLTP was also coming out for consultation.

·      Inclusion of RLTP communication in any requested iwi visits.

3.5      Financial Implications

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

The development of the RLTP is being undertaken within the current budget for the Transport Planning Activity in the Regional Council’s Long-Term Plan 2018-2028.

4.        Next Steps

·      Regional Council adopts RLTP (24 June).

·      Submission of RLTP to Waka Kotahi (30 June).

·      Publication of National Land Transport Plan by Waka Kotahi (August).

·      Regional Council to undertake lessons learned review (July – August).

·      Update and deliver the RTC RLTP work programme (ongoing).

Attachments

Attachment 1 - Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021 - To be circulated under separate cover  

 


Regional Council                                                                                                         24 June 2021

 

Placeholder for Attachment 1

 

Item 9.2

 

Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021 - To be circulated under separate cover


 

 

 

Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

24 June 2021

Report Writer:

Mark Le Comte, Principal Advisor, Finance; Debbie Hyland, Finance & Transport Operations Manager and Alex Miller, Compliance Manager - Primary Industry & Enforcemen

Report Authoriser:

Sarah Omundsen, General Manager, Regulatory Services

Purpose:

That Council adopts the Fees and Charges Policy with effect from 1 July 2021.

 

 

Adoption of Fees and Charges Policy

 

Executive Summary

This report recommends that Council fix the Fees and Charges outlined in the attached Fees and Charges Policy. This includes charges under the Resource Management Act, Building Act, Flood Protection and Drainage Bylaw and Navigation Safety Bylaw (Port Charge only).

Council consulted on the proposed changes following the Local Government 2002 special consultative procedure. 20 submissions were received on the proposed amendments to the charges which were considered along with the associated staff recommendations at the Council’s Long Term Plan 2021-2031 deliberations meeting on 12 May 2021.

The section 36AAA analysis (Attachment One) concludes that the Council’s Resource Management Act charges are appropriate to recover the reasonable costs incurred by the Council in respect of the activities to which the charges relate.

A final version of the Fees and Charges Policy is included as Attachment Two to this report, incorporating the changes to the charges. Once the charges have been fixed, all charges will be effective from 1 July 2021 and will be publicly available in hardcopy and on the Regional Council’s website.

 

Recommendations

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Adoption of Fees and Charges Policy .

2        Notes that Council has followed the Local Government Act Special Consultative Procedure in preparing and consulting on the proposed changes and that Council has considered the submissions received.

3        Adopts the section 36AAA analysis (Attachment One: S36AAA Resource Management Act charges analysis) and confirms that, having regard to section 36AAA (and in particular section 36AAA(3)) of the Resource Management Act 1991, the charges set are appropriate to recover the reasonable costs incurred by the Council in respect of the activities to which the charges relate.

4        Approves that the only fee in the Navigation Safety Bylaw 2017 that has been proposed to change is the Port Charge under section 5.7 of the Bylaw, and that all other fees, charges and penalties in the Navigation Safety Bylaw 2017 remain in force.

5        Fixes the Fees and Charges in the Fees and Charges Policy (Attachment Two) with effect from 1 July 2021.

6        Delegates to the Chief Executive to make minor editorial and formatting changes to the Fees and Charges Policy if required.

 

1.        Introduction

The proposed new Fees and Charges Policy, which includes Resource Management Act charges, Building Act charges and changes to Bylaw charges; was consulted on concurrently with consultation on Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s draft Long Term Plan 2021-2031.

The framework for setting RMA charges sits under Section 36 of the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). The Council also has certain functions under the Building Act 2004; section 243 of the Act allows Council to set a fee for the performance of some of its functions.

In addition, Port Charges are set in the Navigation Safety Bylaw 2017. These may be changed following consultation in a manner that gives effect to the consultation principles set in the LGA s82.

Council conducted a full Special Consultative Procedure for the Fees and Charges Policy. All submissions and associated staff recommendations were considered at the 12 May 2021 Council meeting. Council directed staff to prepare the Fees and Charges Policy for adoption including:

(a)        Reversing proposed changes to geothermal monitoring categories to reflect the current policy with inflationary adjustments.

(b)         Simplifying changes to the water abstraction compliance monitoring categories from eight to four based on reporting method.

(c)         Minor changes to simplify charges, with no charge being higher than consulted on.

(d)         Any changes from final legal review.

1.1      Legislative Framework

Council fees and charges are set under various Acts and Bylaws including the Local Government Act (2002), Resource Management Act, Maritime Transport Act, Floodways and Drainage Bylaw and Navigation and Safety Bylaw. A full Special Consultative Procedure was conducted that meets the requirements of the LGA s83 which is required by some, but not all, of the various Acts i.e. the consultation requirement has been met or exceeded.

1.2      Alignment with Strategic Framework

 

A Healthy Environment

 

Freshwater for Life

 

Safe and Resilient Communities

 

A Vibrant Region

 

The Way We Work

We deliver value to our ratepayers and our customers.

Fees and charges cover part of the cost of services related to the Healthy Environment, Freshwater for Life and Safe and Resilient Community Outcomes.

 

1.2.1    Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

¨ Environmental

Medium - Positive

¨ Cultural

 

¨ Social

Low - Positive

¨ Economic

Low - Positive

 

The funding from fees and charges helps to provide for resource consenting, compliance monitoring, data and science, flood protection and maritime operations.

 

2.        Fees and Charges Policy

The Statement of Proposal outlined the major proposed changes to the Fees and Charges Policy. The submissions received mostly focussed on clarifying a particular circumstance or more general comment not related to the major proposed changes. Staff presented Councillors with the individual submissions, the overall themes arising, and staff analysis and recommendations. The final Fees and Charges Policy for adoption has been prepared based on consideration and direction from Council at the 12 May 2021 Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Deliberations meeting.

2.1      Adoption of the RMA section 36AAA analysis

When fixing charges under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA), a local authority must also have regard to the following criteria listed under section s36AAA(3) of the RMA:

·    Person(s) should only be required to pay a charge to the extent they obtained the benefit of the local authority’s actions distinct from the community as a whole; or

·    Person(s) should only be required to pay a charge where they created need for the local authority’s actions;

·    Person(s) should only be required to pay a charge in relation to monitoring where it relates to that person(s) activities or the likely benefit to that person(s) exceeds that to the community as a whole.

No changes were proposed to the section 36AAA analysis of part of this review. The analysis in Attachment One is recommended to be re-adopted.

2.2      Adoption of Resource Management and Building Act Charges

Most fees and charges have been increased by up to 6% to cover the cumulative impact of inflation and cost pressures over the past two years. These increased have been rounded down to the nearest $5 for convenience. Deposits have remained unchanged.

The proposed policy for consultation included an increased number of categories for water abstraction and geothermal monitoring. Following consideration of submissions and staff analysis, Council directed a partial reversion to the existing categories as outlined in the table below.

Statement of Proposal Feb21 proposed categories

 

Draft Policy for Adoption Jun21 proposed categories

Groundwater (Cold) Abstraction - Telemetry Reporting - Low Risk

 

Consumptive Water use (surface water, groundwater and warm water) - Telemetered Low Risk

Groundwater (Cold) Abstraction - Telemetry Reporting - High Risk

Groundwater (Cold) Abstraction - Manual Reporting - High Risk

 

Consumptive Water use (surface water, groundwater and warm water) - Telemetered High Risk

Groundwater (Cold) Abstraction - No Reporting - High Risk

Surface Water and Geothermal (Warm) Abstraction - Telemetry Reporting - Low Risk

 

Consumptive Water use (surface water, groundwater and warm water) - Manual Reporting

Surface Water and Geothermal (Warm) Abstraction - Telemetry Reporting - High Risk

Surface Water and Geothermal (Warm) Abstraction - Manual Reporting - High Risk

 

Consumptive Water use (surface water, groundwater and warm water) - No Reporting

Geothermal - non Rotorua - High Risk

 

Geothermal Abstraction - excluding Rotorua field

Geothermal - non Rotorua - Medium Risk

Geothermal - non Rotorua - Low Risk

 

Geothermal Abstraction - Rotorua field only

Geothermal - Rotorua - High Risk

Geothermal - Rotorua - Medium Risk

 

Non-consumptive Geothermal Abstractors (Warm Water)  Bores Tga

2.3      Adoption of Bylaw related Fees and Charges

No submissions were received on Bylaw related Fees and Charges including Port Charges. The Flood Protection and Drainage Bylaw review signalled the fees and charges that would be proposed in advance of this review and these were well known to the community. Staff analysis confirmed that the proposed Port Charges are a minor part of overall charges for the Port Tauranga i.e. approximately $0.02 per gross tonnage compared to marine services charges of $1.26 per gross tonnage.

It is recommended that Council sets the Floodway and Drainage Bylaw fees and Charges on pages 24 and 25 of Attachment Two. It is recommended that Council sets the updated Port Charge under the Navigation Safety Bylaw on page 26 of Attachment Two, noting that all other fees, charges and penalties in the Bylaw remain unchanged and in force.

2.4      Adoption of General Hourly Rates

From time to time, Council is requested to provide services that may be cost recoverable. It is recommended that Council sets the general hourly rates for cost recoverable work that is performed under any other power or function of the Council that does not have a specified fee on page 27 of Attachment Two.

3.        Considerations

3.1      Risks and Mitigations

Fees and Charges can be a topic of interest, however, the policy generally received little public feedback. This year the draft policy received 20 submissions compared to 6 and 10 in the two previous reviews.

3.2      Climate Change

Fees and charges do not directly impact climate change, however they are part of funding the implementation of environmental policies.

The matters addressed in this report are of a procedural nature and there is no need to consider climate change impacts.

3.3      Implications for Māori

Māori are both consent holders/applicants and kaitiaki. As consent holders or applicants they would generally be charged in the same way as other members of the community. There are delegations in place to remit charges, which may be considered for Māori where there are wider community outcomes or public benefits provided.

Resource Management Act charges support effective monitoring of our natural resources which is of significant interest to Māori. Future revenue through charges may be considered for use as a targeted contribution to support monitoring of cultural health indicators under our Mātauranga Māori Framework.

3.4      Community Engagement

 

Adobe Systems

CONSULT

Whakauiuia

To obtain input or feedback from affected communities about our analysis, alternatives, and /or proposed decisions.

 

Council has completed a special consultative procedure as required for RMA fees and charges. The consultation period opened alongside LTP 2021-2031, however was extended for two weeks following an advertising omission.

A total of 20 submissions were received, compared to 6 and 10 in the previous consultations. Councillors received all submissions and considered them at the Council Meeting on 12 May 2021.

3.5      Financial Implications

If the recommendation is adopted by Council, will it result in:

-   Unbudgeted work during the current financial year?

-   Unbudgeted work for any of the years remaining in the current Long Term Plan?

If the answer is ‘no’ to both questions please select the dropdown option 1 and complete appropriately.

If the answer is ‘yes’ to either question please select “Budget Implications” in the building block below and liaise with your Management Accountant in order to complete the Financial Impact table.

There are no material financial implications as these recommendations fit within the allocated fees and charges budget in the draft Long Term Plan 2021-2031, and are consistent with the draft Revenue and Financing Policy for the relevant activities. Council proposed that most fees and charges would increase by 6% to cover the impact of two years of inflation.  In considering the Making Best Use of Resources priority focus, Council has been progressively increasing fees and charges so that that user pays is contributing more to the cost of these services. The external audit of the Council’s draft Long Term Plan 2021-2031 included a review of the forecast revenue estimates for Fees and Charges.

4.        Next Steps

Next Steps: What next? What resources are needed? Further analysis? Timeframes ahead. Any consultation planned. Remind Council of the process ahead. Next update to Council?

Conclusion: Short concluding remarks. Referring back to recommendations. No new content.

Following adoption at this meeting, the Fees and Charges Policy will be uploaded to Council’s website and used for 2021/22 invoicing. Feedback will be provided to all submitters following adoption of the Policy.

The next review of the Policy will aim to implement improvements requested by submitters in relation to ease of understanding, clarity of the purpose of charges and improved transparency of costs.

Attachments

Attachment 1 - S36AAA Resource Management Chrages Analysis - Draft for Adoption June 2021

Attachment 2 - Fees and Charges Policy - Draft for Adoption June 2021  

 


Regional Council                                                                                                                         24 June 2021

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Regional Council                                                                                                                         24 June 2021

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Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

24 June 2021

Report Writer:

Zhivan Alach, Organisational Performance Manager and Debbie Hyland, Finance & Transport Operations Manager

Report Authoriser:

Karen Aspey, Director, People & Leadership

Purpose:

To gain Council adoption of the Long Term Plan 2021-2031

 

 

Adoption of Long Term Plan 2021-2031

 

Executive Summary

This report seeks adoption of the Long Term Plan 2021-2031 (LTP 2021-2031) under section 93(3) of the Local Government Act (2002).

Council deliberated on the LTP 2021-2031 at its meeting of 12 May 2021, which was the culmination of a process involving multiple workshops and meetings through 2020 and early 2021, and a Special Consultative Procedure from 22 February to 22 March 2021, involving 319 community submissions.

Submitters will receive replies to their submissions following adoption of the LTP 2021-2031, with those replies also informing the future work of Council committees.

The LTP 2021-2031 has been subject to an external audit process, and the audit director will be in attendance at the meeting to present the audit report. Audit NZ have indicated they will issue an unmodified audit opinion.

A general rates increase of 5.8% ($23 per household) is planned for 2021/22, and the average targeted rates increase is 12.1%. There is an unbalanced budget in each of the ten years of this Long Term Plan, which requires specific resolution by Council.

 

Recommendations

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Adoption of Long Term Plan 2021-2031.

2        Notes that the Long Term Plan 2021-2031 has been subject to an audit process;

3        Adopts the updated Strategic Framework;

4        Adopts the following policies and supporting information for the Long Term Plan 2021-2031 comprising:

(a)  Financial Policies and Other Policies including:

(i)   Revenue and Financing Policy - Funding Needs Analysis;

(ii)  Treasury Policy (incorporating Investment Policy and Liability Management Policy)

(iii) Remission and Postponement of Rates Policy

(iv) Third Party Infrastructure Funding Policy

(v)  Development Contributions and Financial Contributions Policy

(b)  Asset Management Plans including:

(i)   Strategic Asset Management Plan;

(ii)  Rivers and Drainage Asset Management;

(iii) Maritime Asset Management Plan;

(iv) Regional Parks and Coastal Catchments Asset Management Plan;

(v)  Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Asset Management Plan; and

(vi) Property Asset Management Plan.

5        Resolves that it is financially prudent for the Long Term Plan 2021-2031 to have an unbalanced budget (operating revenue is at a lower level than operating expenditure) for years one, two and three, pursuant to s100(2) of the Local Government Act 2002;

6        Authorises the Chair to sign the Audit NZ Letter of Representation on behalf of Council;

7        Receives the Audit NZ audit opinion on the Long Term Plan 2021-2031;

8        Adopts the Long Term Plan 2021-2031 to come into effect 1 July 2021, comprising:

(a)  Volume One including:

(i)   Community Outcomes;

(ii)  Statement of Service Performance;

(iii) Development of Māori capacity to contribute to decision-making

(b)  Volume Two including:

(i)   Financial Strategy;

(ii)  Infrastructure Strategy;

(iii) Prospective Financial Statements;

(iv) Accounting Policies;

(v)  Council Controlled Organisations;

(vi) Funding Impact Statement;

(vii)          Revenue and Financing Policy;

(viii)         Rates Funding Impact Statement;

(ix) Significant Forecasting Assumptions;

(x)  Significant Negative Effects.

9        Agrees that the Chief Executive and Chief Financial Officer may commit Council to new debt subject to:

a.   Up to $100 million of new debt for on-lending to Quayside Holdings (or subsidiary) for the industrial business park at Rangiuru noting that $60 million of this new debt is required in year one of the Long Term Plan.

b.   Up to $15 million of new debt for Council projects.

c.   All new debt is to be within the debt limits set by the Financial Strategy and Treasury Policy.

d.   The Chief Executive is delegated to approve borrowing arrangements and sign legal documents for the new borrowing within daily transaction limits.

10      Notes that all submitters to the Long Term Plan 2021-2031 will receive a letter outlining Council’s key decisions in relation to the LTP 2021-2031 during July 2021 and that a list of these responses will be provided to the relevant Council committees for their information;

11      Delegates to the Chief Executive the ability to make minor editorial changes to the Long Term Plan 2021-2031 and supporting documentation before publication;

12      Confirms the decision has a medium level of significance as determined by the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. Council has identified and assessed different options and considered community views as part of making the decision, in proportion to the level of significance.

 

1.        Introduction

Council is required under the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA) to have a Long Term Plan at all times. Long Term Plans remain in force for up to three years. Council’s current Long Term Plan 2018-2028 (LTP 2018-2038) came into force on 1 July 2018. As a result, Council is required to adopt a new Long Term Plan by 30 June 2021 so that it can come into force by 1 July 2021.

1.1      Legislative Framework

The LGA at section 93 requires Councils to have a Long Term Plan at all times and notes that they remain in force for up to three years at a time.

1.2      Alignment with Strategic Framework

 

A Healthy Environment

 

Freshwater for Life

 

Safe and Resilient Communities

 

A Vibrant Region

 

The Way We Work

 

The Long Term Plan enables delivery against all of our Community Outcomes.

1.2.1    Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

Medium - Positive

þ Cultural

Medium - Positive

þ Social

Medium - Positive

þ Economic

Medium - Positive

 

The Long Term Plan delivers positive outcomes across all wellbeing areas.

 

1.       Significance

The recommended proposal/decision has been assessed against the criteria and thresholds in Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy, and can be considered:

Medium

The decision is not within existing budgets and does not implement the current long term plan or annual plan.

 

2.        Development of Long Term Plan 2021-2031

Council adopted the draft LTP 2021-2031 Consultation Document and Supporting Information for audit at its meeting of 17 December 2020. Council then adopted a revised LTP 2021-2031 Consultation Document and Supporting Information for public consultation at its meeting of 16 February 2021.

The Special Consultative Procedure required by LGA 2002 ran from 22 February 2021 to 22 March 2021. 319 submissions were received (an increase of 33% from 2018). Council then held four days of hearings from 12 to 16 April 2021, hearing from 73 individuals and community groups.

Council held deliberations on 12 May 2021, where it gave final direction on items material to the LTP 2021-2031, including work programme items, budgets, and levels of service.

2.1      Public Transport

At its deliberation meeting, Council directed permanent free fares for school students, dependent on funding from Waka Kotahi/NZTA. Waka Kotahi/NZTA has informed Regional Council that this funding will not be forthcoming as it is a specific funding exclusion in their policy. As such, the option implemented is a one-year trial of free fares for school students in Tauranga, Whakatāne, and Rotorua, i.e. an extension of the current trial.

3.        The Long Term Plan

The Long Term Plan is functionally a single document but is separated into two volumes: Volume One/Tahi and Volume Two/Rua. LTP Volume One is graphically designed and provides our strategic direction, proposed levels of service, and key financial information. LTP Volume Two is not graphically designed and provides legislatively required detail. The two volumes are continuously numbered.

LTP Volume One has been reviewed by the same Councillor Working Group as reviewed the Consultation Document (Crs Nees, Love, Rose, and Iti) and their feedback has been incorporated.

4.        Budget and Rates

The Long Term Plan 2021-2031 sets out:

·      Operating expenditure over the next ten years of $1.7 billion, with year one expenditure of $163.7 million

·      Capital expenditure over the next ten years of $157 million, with year one expenditure of $34.6 million

·      A real general rates increase of 5.8% in year one, reducing to a 3% increase in years two and three of the LTP.

·      A targeted rates increase of 12.1% in year one, the cost per household varies depending on the area you live in and the services provided.

4.1      Unbalanced Budget

Financial decisions taken through the development of the LTP 2021-2031 have resulted in a budgeted deficit (operating revenue is at a lower level than operating expenditure) in years one, two and three of the LTP.

The reasons for the forecast budget deficits noted above include funding contributions to third party infrastructure projects from reserves, the use of targeted rates reserves and regional fund reserves to fund specific operating expenditures which will deliver long-lasting benefits, and the use of reserves to reduce general rates increases to aid the region’s economic recovery.

Through the development of the LTP2021-2031, Council undertook a full review of its Financial Framework. In the context of this, staff recommend that the use of reserves to fund expenditure is financially prudent.

Council is required to formally resolve to set an unbalanced budget under Local Government Act section 100(2).

5.        Audit

Audit NZ have received the draft Long Term Plan (Volumes One/Tahi and Two/Rua), and supporting information. At the time of writing, only minor changes have been required. The Audit Director, Leon Pieterse, will be in attendance at the meeting to present the audit opinion.

6.        Responses to Submitters

All submitters will receive a letter outlining Council’s decisions in relation to the topics on which they provided feedback. Individualised responses will be sent to key stakeholders including those who requested funding. Council Committees will also receive a list of the responses relevant to their work.

7.        Considerations

7.1      Risks and Mitigations

If Council does not adopt the LTP 2021-2031, it is probable that it will breach statutory requirements.

7.2      Climate Change

The LTP 2021-2031 incorporates Council’s new Climate Change Position Statement, levels of service relevant to climate change adaptation and mitigation, and also funds a number of relevant projects.

7.3      Implications for Māori

The LTP 2021-2031 has been fully informed by submissions received from Māori individuals and groups. It also sets out relevant levels of service, and funds a number of relevant projects.

7.4      Community Engagement

 

Adobe Systems

CONSULT

Whakauiuia

To obtain input or feedback from affected communities about our analysis, alternatives, and /or proposed decisions.

 

Council has used the Special Consultative Procedure as set out under sections 93A and 83 of the LGA as part of development of the LTP. Through this process, Council received 319 submissions on the LTP, considered these through hearings and deliberations, and used them to provide final direction to staff.

In addition to the above, Council undertook pre-engagement with the community in 2019-2020 focusing on the Strategic Framework.

7.5      Financial Implications

If the recommendation is adopted by Council, will it result in:

-   Unbudgeted work during the current financial year?

-   Unbudgeted work for any of the years remaining in the current Long Term Plan?

If the answer is ‘no’ to both questions please select the dropdown option 1 and complete appropriately.

If the answer is ‘yes’ to either question please select “Budget Implications” in the building block below and liaise with your Management Accountant in order to complete the Financial Impact table.

The Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Volumes One and Two set out full financial detail.

8.        Next Steps

Next Steps: What next? What resources are needed? Further analysis? Timeframes ahead. Any consultation planned. Remind Council of the process ahead. Next update to Council?

Conclusion: Short concluding remarks. Referring back to recommendations. No new content.

Following adoption of the Long Term Plan 2021-2031, staff will make any required minor editorial corrections. The Long Term Plan 2021-2031 will be available on Council’s website from 1 July 2021, and printed copies will be available and distributed to key stakeholders before 24 July 2021.

Attachments

Attachment 1 - BOPRC Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Volume One - Draft for Adoption June 2021

Supporting Document 1 - BOPRC Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Volume Two - Draft for Adoption June 2021

Supporting Document 2 - BOPRC Financial Policies and Other Policies - Draft for Adoption June 2021

Supporting Document 3 - BOPRC Asset Management Plans - Draft for Adoption June 2021  

 


Regional Council                                                                                                                         24 June 2021

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Regional Council                                                                                                         24 June 2021

 

Item 9.6

Supporting Document 1

BOPRC Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Volume Two - Draft for Adoption June 2021


Regional Council                                                                                                         24 June 2021

 

Item 9.6

Supporting Document 2

BOPRC Financial Policies and Other Policies - Draft for Adoption June 2021


Regional Council                                                                                                         24 June 2021

 

Item 9.6

Supporting Document 3

BOPRC Asset Management Plans - Draft for Adoption June 2021


 

 

 

Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

24 June 2021

Report Writer:

Mereana Toroa, Finance Support Team Lead and Debbie Hyland, Finance & Transport Operations Manager

Report Authoriser:

Mat Taylor, General Manager, Corporate

Purpose:

To recommend the setting of rates, due dates for the payment of rates and authorise penalties for 2021/22 in accordance with sections 23, 24, 57 and 58 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002.

 

 

Rates Setting 2021/22

 

Executive Summary

This report is to recommend the setting of rates, due dates for the payment of rates and authorise penalties for 2021/22 in accordance with sections 23, 24, 57 and 58 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002.

The report sets out;

·       The general and targeted rates Council will set for 2021/22, and

·       The dates of instalments and authorisation of penalties.

·       The appointment of the local district and city councils to collect the rates assessed by Bay of Plenty Regional Council in accordance with section 53 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002.

There is a possibility that some Territorial Local Authorities, who collect regional rates on behalf of Council, may need to delay adoption of their LTP or rates resolution into 2021/22. If any TLA needs to set or change the relevant rates dates or penalty percentage rates after Council sets rates, it is possible for Council to amend its rates resolution through a full Council meeting, as per section 24.6 of Council’s standing orders.

 

 

Recommendations

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Rates Setting 2021/22.

2        Confirms that the rates for the financial year 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022 are set and assessed in accordance with the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002.

3        Confirms that the significance of the decision has been assessed as LOW, and under Section 79 of the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA) confirms the written record of the manner in which section 77 and section 78 matters have been addressed.

4        Notes that, as required by the Local Government Act 2002, Council followed the special consultative procedure on the funding impact statement that was part of the Long Term Plan 2021-31. 

5        Confirms that the amounts of the rate specified in the rate tables of the resolution, for the financial year commencing 1 July 2021 to 30 June 2022, includes the Council’s Goods and Services Tax component.

6        Sets a general rate based on land value, calculated as a rate in the dollar of the rateable land value of each rateable rating unit in the region. The rate in the dollar is different according to the location of the land within each district and city council as land values are equalised.

        

7        Sets a uniform annual general charge as a fixed amount per rating unit on all rateable land in the region.

8        Sets targeted rates for Kaituna Catchment Control Scheme. A targeted rate is set differentially in accordance with Sections 16, 17 and 18 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 for all rateable land situated in the Kaituna Catchment Control Scheme within the Tauranga, Western Bay of Plenty and Rotorua constituent districts. The rating categories have been determined based on consideration of beneficiary/exacerbator principle and which services need to be provided by Council for each type of property.

                            


 

 

                            The two targeted rates are set as follows;

(i)        Where the land is situated and calculated using the area of land within the rating unit,

(ii)       Where the land is situated and calculated using the extent of service provided for that rating category.

 

9        Sets a targeted rate for the Rangitāiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme. The rate is set differentially for all rateable land situated in the Rangitāiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme catchment within the Whakatāne, Kawerau, Rotorua and Taupō constituent districts. 


 

                            The targeted rate is set as follows;

(i)      Where the land is situated and calculated using the area of land within the rating unit.

10     
Sets targeted rates for Whakatāne-Tauranga Rivers Scheme. A targeted rate is set differentially in accordance with Sections 16, 17 and 18 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 for all rateable land situated in the Whakatane-Tauranga Rivers Scheme catchment within the Whakatane constituent district. The rating categories have been determined based on consideration of beneficiary/exacerbator principle and which services need to be provided by Council for each type of property.

The two targeted rates are set as follows;

(i)     Where the land is situated and calculated using the area of land within the rating unit,

(ii)    Where the land is situated and calculated using the extent of service provided for that rating category.

 

11      Sets targeted rates for the Waioeka-Otara Rivers Scheme. A targeted rate is set differentially in accordance with Sections 16, 17 and 18 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 for all rateable land situated in the Waioeka-Otara Rivers Scheme catchment within the Opotiki constituent district. The rating categories have been determined based on consideration of beneficiary/exacerbator principle and which services need to be provided by Council for each type of property.

The two targeted rates are set as follows;

(i)     Where the land is situated and calculated using the area of land within the rating unit,

(ii)    Where the land is situated and calculated using the extent of service provided for that rating category.

 

 

12      Sets a targeted rate for the Rangitāiki Drainage Rating Area. The rate is set differentially for all rateable land situated in the defined Rangitāiki Drainage Rating Area situated on the Rangitāiki Plains within the Whakatāne constituent district. 

The targeted rate is set as follows;

(i)     Where the land is situated and calculated using the area of land within the rating unit.

 

13      Sets a targeted rate for Passenger Transport. The rate is set differentially as an amount per rating unit on all rateable properties within the defined boundaries of Tauranga City, Urban Rotorua, Western Bay District and Whakatāne District.  

The passenger transport targeted rate is set as follows;

(i)     Where the rateable unit is situated.

14      Sets a targeted rate for the Rotorua Lakes Programme. The rate is set differentially as an amount per rating unit on all rateable properties within the Rotorua constituent district.  

The Rotorua Lakes programme targeted rate is set as follows;

(i)     Area of land within the rating unit.

 

15      Sets a targeted rate for Rotorua Air Action Plan Implementation. The rate is set differentially by geography as a fixed amount per rating unit on all rateable properties within the defined boundary of Urban Rotorua.


 

The Council sets the Rotorua Air Action Plan Implementation targeted rate as follows;

(i)     Where the rateable unit is situated.

 

16      Sets a targeted rate for Civil Defence Emergency Management. The rate is set differentially as an amount per rating unit on all rateable properties within the Kawerau, Ōpōtiki, Rotorua, Tauranga, Western Bay of Plenty and Whakatāne constituent districts.  

The Civil Defence Emergency Management targeted rate is set as follows;

(i)     Where the rateable unit is situated.

 

17      Sets a targeted rate for Rotorua Air Clean Heat Conversion. The rate is set differentially as an amount per rating unit within the defined boundary of Rotorua Air shed Area who have received loans from the council for installing cleaner heat alternatives.   

The Council sets the Rotorua Air Clean Heat Conversion targeted rate as follows;

(i)   Where the rateable unit is situated, and calculated based on the type of conversion installed, and the loan amount provided under the Clean Heat Conversion scheme.

 

 

 

18      Sets targeted rates for the Minor River and Drainage Scheme. The rates are set differentially for all rateable land situated in the defined communal pumped drainage and defined minor river and drainage schemes areas.

The Council sets one targeted rate for each scheme as follows;

(i)     Where the land is situated and calculated using the area of land within the rating unit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

19      Sets a targeted rate for Regional Safety and Rescue Services. The rate is set differentially as an amount per rating unit on all rateable properties within the Kawerau, Ōpōtiki, Rotorua, Tauranga, Western Bay of Plenty and Whakatāne constituent districts.   

The regional safety and rescue service targeted rate is set as follows;

(i)     Where the rateable unit is situated.

 

20      Sets targeted rates uniformly for all rateable land situated in the defined drainage and defined Minor River and Drainage Schemes areas.

The rates are set as follows;

(i)     Where the land is situated and calculated using the land area within the rating unit.

21      Sets the following instalment due dates for all rates other than the Minor River and Drainage Scheme rates as set out below. The due dates for each territorial constituent area are for an equal amount of the rates.

(i)     The respective instalment due dates as follows;

 

22      Sets the following penalties regime for all rates other than the Minor River and Drainage Scheme rates;

(i)     Pursuant to sections 57 and 58(1)(a) of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, with respect to rates assessed in the 2021/22 year, a penalty of 10% for all areas other than the Kawerau District and 5% for the Kawerau District will be added to the amount of any instalment that has been assessed after 1 July 2021 and which is unpaid after the relevant due date set out in section 20. The penalty will be added on the respective instalment penalty date shown in (ii).

(ii)    The respective instalment penalty dates are as follows;

 

(iii)   Pursuant to sections 57 and 58(1)(b) of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, with respect to rates assessed before 1 July 2021, a penalty of 10% for all areas in the table below other than the Kawerau District and 5% for the Kawerau District will be added to any rates unpaid on 1 July 2021. The penalty will be added on the date shown below.

 

The respective additional penalty dates are as follows;

                           

 

(iv)   Pursuant to sections 57 and 58(1)(c) of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, with respect to rates assessed in previous financial years, a further penalty of 10% for Rotorua District and Western Bay of Plenty District, and 5% for the Kawerau District will be added on any rates to which a penalty has been added under 20(iii) if the rates remain unpaid six months after the previous penalty was added. The penalty will be added on the date shown below.

The respective additional penalty dates are as follows;

23     
Set that Minor River and Drainage Scheme rates shall be payable at the office of the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Quay Street, P O Box 364, Whakatāne in one instalment on or by 20 January 2022

24      Set the following penalties regime for the Minor River and Drainage Scheme rates:

(i)     Pursuant to sections 57 and 58(1)(a) of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, with respect to the Minor River and Drainage Scheme rates assessed in the 2021/22 year, a penalty of 10% will be added to the amount that remains unpaid after 20 January 2022, on 21 February 2022.

(ii)    Pursuant to sections 57 and 58(1)(b) of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, with respect to Minor River and Drainage Scheme rates assessed before 1 July 2021, a penalty of 10% will be added on any rates that remain unpaid on 2 July 2021. The penalty will be added on 2 July 2021.

(iii)   Pursuant to sections 57 and 58(1)(c) of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, with respect to Minor River and Drainage Scheme rates, a further penalty of 10% will be added on any rates to which a penalty has been added under (ii) if the rates remain unpaid six months after the previous penalty was added on 2 July 2021. The penalty will be added on 21 February 2022.

25      Pursuant to section 27(7) of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, the Council delegates’ authority to the constituent district and city councils of the Bay of Plenty region to keep and maintain the rating information database for those areas on its behalf.

26      Appoints in accordance with section 53 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 the constituent district and city councils of the Bay of Plenty region, i.e. Kawerau District Council, Ōpōtiki District Council, Rotorua District Council, Taupō District Council, Tauranga City Council, Western Bay of Plenty District Council, Whakatāne District Council, to collect the rates assessed by Bay of Plenty Regional Council, excluding Minor River and Drainage Scheme targeted rates.

27      Agrees that in respect of the Minor River and Drainage Scheme targeted rates which are collected directly by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council, where the total amount of rates payable, in respect of any property is $9.99 or less, pursuant to Section 54 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, the rates payable in respect of the property will not be collected.

 

1.        Introduction

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council (Council) has developed the LTP 2021-31 following a series of Council workshops and meetings in late 2020 and the first half of 2021.

The rates set out in this paper are in accordance with the LTP 2021-31 Revenue and Financing Policy and Funding Impact Statement, as required by section 23 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002. 

A resolution is required to set the rates, due dates and penalties regime for the 2021/22 financial year. The due dates and penalty dates reflect the dates proposed by each of the territorial authorities that collect rates on our behalf.

In the event that one or more of the territorial authorities adopts a different due date or penalty date, then Council may be required to revoke the rates resolution and adopt an updated rates resolution.

 

1.1      Legislative Framework

To recommend the setting of rates, due dates for the payment of rates and authorise penalties for 2021/22 in accordance with sections 23, 24, 57 and 58 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002.

1.2      Alignment with Strategic Framework

 

A Healthy Environment

 

Freshwater for Life

 

Safe and Resilient Communities

 

A Vibrant Region

 

The Way We Work

We deliver value to our ratepayers and our customers.

1.2.1    Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

 

þ Cultural

 

þ Social

 

þ Economic

 

 

 

The setting of rates allows us to fund the work required to deliver the Community Well-beings and indirectly support all Well-being. Rates are set in line with the Revenue and Financing Policy which apportions the cost of services based on the requirements of the Local Government Act (2002) s 101.

 

2.        Considerations

2.1      Risks and Mitigations

Council is required to set rates in accordance with the relevant provisions of the local authority’s long-term plan and funding impact statement for that financial year. Council has completed the full consultation requirements for the Long Term Plan 2021-2031. In addition, the Long Term Plan 2021-2031 has been audited, and this rates setting report has been audited and independently reviewed by Council’s legal advisors Simpson Grierson. Staff consider there is a low level of legal risk in setting rates as recommended.

The Rates Remissions and Postponement Policy provides opportunities to assist ratepayers that cannot afford to pay their rates.

BOPRC rates are collected on our behalf by the territorial local authorities and the rates resolutions need to have the same dates for instalment, penalties and penalty applications. These have been checked with the territorial local authorities, however, any unforeseen changes may require BOPRC to reset the rates resolutions.

 

2.2      Climate Change

The matters addressed in this report are of a procedural nature and there is no need to consider climate change impacts. Rates are a source of funding for our work on Climate Change.

 

2.3      Implications for Māori

The Rates setting paper has taken in to account obligations and responsibilities to Māori in accordance with sections 23, 24, 57 and 58 of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002.The Long Term Plan 2021-2031 process has taken into account obligations to Māori including, but not limited to, the contribution to decision-making processes by Māori under the Local Government Act (2002) s 81 and the principles in parts 2 and 6.

 

2.4      Community Engagement

 

Adobe Systems

CONSULT

Whakauiuia

To obtain input or feedback from affected communities about our analysis, alternatives, and /or proposed decisions.

The community were consulted during the development of Long Term Plan 2021-2031 using the Special Consultative Procedure in the Local Government Act (2002) s83. Council’s decisions on levels of service, budgets and rates included consideration of all submissions received.

 

2.5      Financial Implications

If the recommendation is adopted by Council, will it result in:

-   Unbudgeted work during the current financial year?

-   Unbudgeted work for any of the years remaining in the current Long Term Plan?

If the answer is ‘no’ to both questions please select the dropdown option 1 and complete appropriately.

If the answer is ‘yes’ to either question please select “Budget Implications” in the building block below and liaise with your Management Accountant in order to complete the Financial Impact table.

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

 

3.        Next Steps

Next Steps: What next? What resources are needed? Further analysis? Timeframes ahead. Any consultation planned. Remind Council of the process ahead. Next update to Council?

Conclusion: Short concluding remarks. Referring back to recommendations. No new content.

Following confirmation of the setting of rates, due dates for the payment of rates and authorise penalties for 2021/22, staff will send information to TLA’s for inclusion in the first 2021/22 rates instalment invoice.

  


 

 

 

Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

24 June 2021

Report Writer:

Rob Donald, Science Manager

Report Authoriser:

Namouta Poutasi, General Manager, Strategy & Science

Purpose:

The purpose of this report is to obtain approval to proceed with a Comprehensive Procurement Plan for Science Technical Advice Services.

 

 

Science Services - Panel Supplier Contract Procurement Plan

 

Executive Summary

External science services are needed to ensure that Council continues to have a sound evidence base to support decision making. This is relevant across the range of council functions including those related to land, water, air, natural hazards and climate change. In delivering science advice it is important that there is a sound procurement framework to ensure that value is being delivered to the community.

The procurement of science services from consultants and contractors is currently carried out on a project-by-project basis.  Due to the repetitive nature and volume of this work this method of sourcing services is inefficient.  Efficiencies can be gained by running a competitive process to engage a panel of suppliers to cover our needs for the next three to six years.  This is the same procurement method which is currently being used under the Engineering Services Panel Contract.

A draft Comprehensive Procurement Plan for Science Technical Advice Services has been prepared and is attached to this report. If Council approves the Plan and associated recommendations staff will go to market to invite proposals/tenders. It is intended that the new panel contract will start before the end of 2021.

 

Recommendations

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Science Services - Panel Supplier Contract Procurement Plan;

2        Approves the Comprehensive Procurement Plan for Science Technical Advice Services;

3        Approves going to market to invite proposals/tenders as set out in the Procurement Plan;

4        Delegates financial authority to the CEO to approve contracts and supplier selections in exceedance of $400,000 relating to this panel, including contract variations and appointing additional suppliers;

5        Confirms that the decision has a low level of significance.

 

1.        Introduction

The procurement of science services from consultants and contractors is currently carried out on a project-by-project basis.  Due to the repetitive nature and volume of this work this method of sourcing services is inefficient.  Efficiencies can be gained by running a competitive process to engage a panel of suppliers to cover our needs for the next three to six years.  This is the same procurement method which is currently being used under the Engineering Services Panel Contract.

1.1      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 deliver value to our ratepayers and our customers.

External science services are needed to ensure that Council continues to have a sound evidence base to support decision making. This is relevant across the range of council functions including those related to land, water, air, natural hazards and climate change. In delivering science advice it is important that there is a sound procurement framework to ensure that value is being delivered to the community.

1.1.1    Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

Low - Positive

þ Cultural

Low - Positive

þ Social

Low - Positive

þ Economic

Low - Positive

 

The impact of the proposal on the Community Well-beings will be positive overall.  The procurement of science which is fit for purpose and affordable has benefits across the environment and the community.

 

2.        Procurement Plan

A draft Comprehensive Procurement Plan for Science Technical Advice Services has been prepared and is attached to this report. This has been developed internally by the Procurement and Science teams.

The Plan relates to the purchase of services to support the Councils science work for the next three years with right of renewal for a further three year period. The panel of suppliers will also be available to support other BoPRC sections and programmes as required (e.g. Environmental Data Services, Consents, Land Management, Pollution Prevention, Policy and Planning).

The key objective of this procurement is to engage a panel of suitably qualified science contractors and consultancies that can be called upon to undertake specific science projects.  Parties accepted through the tender process will be issued with briefs and submit proposals for individual works as required.

The Plan includes the scope of the works, funding source, stakeholder and market analysis, the method of procurement, tendering process, evaluation methodology and contract type. It also evaluates the risks associated with procurement and sets out the roles and responsibilities and a timeline for procurement.

The proposed outcome of the procurement process is to tender, then engage the most appropriate contractors and consultants to undertake the work as required.  Contracts will be formed with those that pass the tender evaluation process. 

3.        Considerations

3.1      Risks and Mitigations

There are no significant risks associated with this proposal.

3.2      Climate Change

The matters addressed in this report are of a procedural nature and there is no need to consider climate change impacts.

3.3      Implications for Māori

There are no significant implications for Māori associated with this proposal. Staff have considered whether to include provision of Mātauranga services or advice in the panel contract but suggest that this may be better left to a specific Mātauranga panel contract at a later date. Respondents will be asked to identify measures for addressing under-representation of Māori in the Science industry, or to highlight what they do in their organisation to improve staff awareness of Mātauranga Māori. This will be weighted/scored where there is high enough competition in a particular category.

3.4      Community Engagement

 

Engagement with the community is not required as the recommended proposal / decision relates to internal Council matters only.

 

3.5      Financial Implications

If the recommendation is adopted by Council, will it result in:

-   Unbudgeted work during the current financial year?

-   Unbudgeted work for any of the years remaining in the current Long Term Plan?

If the answer is ‘no’ to both questions please select the dropdown option 1 and complete appropriately.

If the answer is ‘yes’ to either question please select “Budget Implications” in the building block below and liaise with your Management Accountant in order to complete the Financial Impact table.

Each individual 3+3 year framework agreement will have an internal value cap attributed to it. The total value of the caps will be determined by the tender responses but will not exceed commitments in the LTP. For context, the current budget for consultancy and contractor services in the Science Activity is approximately $1.5M per year - it is expected that a large proportion of this would be managed under these framework agreements. The procurement plan will be supported by robust procurement processes and a Buyer’s guide which will be run by the Commercial Team.

4.        Next Steps

 

Next Steps: What next? What resources are needed? Further analysis? Timeframes ahead. Any consultation planned. Remind Council of the process ahead. Next update to Council?

Conclusion: Short concluding remarks. Referring back to recommendations. No new content.

Staff will evaluate tender responses and select suitable providers for the panel. It is intended that the new panel contract would start before the end of 2021.

Attachments

Attachment 1 - 2020 0150 Science Panel Procurement Plan - draft for Council approval  

 


Regional Council                                                                                                         24 June 2021

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[1] Refer amendment – Rangitāiki River Forum meeting 4 June 2021

[2] Refer amendment – Rangitāiki River Forum meeting 4 June 2021

[3] Refer amendment – Rangitāiki River Forum meeting 4 June 2021

[4] Refer amendment – Rangitāiki River Forum meeting 4 June 2021