Agenda of Rangitāiki River Forum

Rangitāiki River Forum

Membership

Chairperson	Bronco Carson (Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whare)
Deputy Chairperson	Terewai Kalman (Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa)
Tangata Whenua Members
One appointed representative each:
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa	Karito Paul (Alternate)
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whare	Jane Nicholas (Alternate)
Ngāti Tūwharetoa (Bay of Plenty) Settlement Trust	Shaneen Simpson-Almond
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa	Miro Araroa Tuwhakairiora O'Brien (Alternate)
Hineuru Iwi Trust	Mei Winitana Brenda Lewis (Alternate)
Tūhoe Te Uru Taumatua	Ngapera Rangiaho
Te Kotahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa	Whakaeke Ritete Ngatoru Wall (Alternate)
Council Members
One appointed members each:
Whakatāne District Council	Cr Alison Silcock Cr Wilson James (Alternate)
Taupō District Council	Cr John Williamson Cr Tangonui Kingi (Alternate)
Up to five appointed members:
Bay of Plenty Regional Council	Cr Bill Clark Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti Cr Kevin Winters
Quorum	Three iwi members and three Council members and must include a Ngāti Whare member and a Ngāti Manawa member.
Meeting frequency	Quarterly

Other iwi and local authorities through consensus of the Forum, may join the Forum.

Vision

Te Mana o Te Wai – The First Right to Water is to the Water.

Mission

Te Reo o Te Wai - Te Mana – The voice of the Water, restoring Te Mana o Te Wai.

Purpose

To protect and enhance the environmental, cultural, and spiritual health, wellbeing and sustainable use of the Rangitāiki River and its resources, for the benefit of present and future generations.

Scope

The Rangitāiki River Forum’s scope covers the geographical area of the Rangitāiki River Catchment including the Rangitāiki River, Whirinaki River, Wheao River and Horomanga River as referenced in the following Settlement Acts: Ngāti Whare Claims Settlement Act 2012; Ngāti Manawa Claims Settlement Act 2012; Tūhoe Claims Settlement Act 2014; Hineuru Claims Settlement Act 2016; Ngāti Tūwharetoa Claims Settlement Act 2018.

This is a permanent joint committee under the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA), and co-governance partnership between local authorities and iwi that share an interest in the Rangitāiki River, and must not be discharged unless all of the appointing organisations agree to the discharge.

Role

· Prepare and approve the Rangitāiki River Document for eventual recognition by the Regional Policy Statement, Regional Plans and District Plans.

· Promote the integrated and coordinated management of the Rangitāiki River.

· Engage with and provide advice to:

§ Local Authorities on statutory and non-statutory processes that affect the Rangitāiki River, including under the Resource Management Act 1991.

§ Crown agencies that exercise functions in relation to the Rangitāiki River.

· Monitor the extent to which the purpose of the Rangitāiki River Forum is being achieved including the implementation and effectiveness of the Rangitāiki River Document.

· Gather information, disseminate information and hold meetings

· Take any other action that is related to achieving the purpose of the Forum.

Decision Making

The Forum must make its decisions by a vote at a meeting and must seek to achieve consensus, be consistent with and reflect the purpose of the Forum and acknowledge the interests of iwi in particular parts of the Rangitāiki and its catchments.

Power to Act

The Forum has the discretion to determine in any particular circumstance whether to exercise any function identified and to what extent any function identified is exercised.

Power to Recommend

To the partner organisations on any matters within the Forum’s delegated role as it deems appropriate.

Rangitāiki River Forum members report directly to their respective organisations.

Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes

4 March 2022

Rangitāiki River Forum

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing: Friday 4 March 2022, 10:00 am

Venue: Via Zoom (Audio Visual Meeting)

Heamana

Chairperson: Cr Bronco Carson (Te Runanga o Ngāti Whare)

Ngā Kopounga

Members: Bay of Plenty Regional Council:
Cr Bill Clark, Cr Kevin Winters

Hineuru Iwi Trust:

Mei Winitana, Brenda Lewis (Alternate)

Taupō District Council:

Cr John Williamson

Te Kotahitanga o Ngāti Tūwharetoa:

Whakaeke Ritete

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa:

Miro Araroa, Tuwhakairiora O'Brien (Alternate)

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa:

Karito Paul (Alternate)

Whakatāne District Council:

Cr Alison Silcock, Cr Wilson James (Alternate)

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whare:

Jane Nicholas (Alternate)

Tūhoe Te Uru Taumatua:

Ngapera Rangiaho

Te Hunga i Tae Ake

In Attendance: Bay of Plenty Regional Council: Chris Ingle - General Manager Integrated Catchments, Herewini Simpson - Kaihautu (Te Amorangi Lead), Charles Harley - Eastern Catchments Team Leader, Gemma Moleta - Senior Planner (Water Policy), Fiona Wood – Programme Coordinator, Michelle Lee – Planner (Water Policy), Shari Kameta (Committee Advisor);
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa: Maxeen Newton – Pou Taiao; Whakatāne District Council: Georgina Fletcher – General Manager Community Experience, Teryll Leper – Senior Project Planner, Cr Lesley Immink

Manawa Energy Ltd: Ryan Piddington – Environmental and Regulatory Services Manager, Lisa Mead – Senior Environmental Advisor, Brigette Horgan - Community and Communications Advisor, Abi Collins - Environmental Advisor, Annie Tangata; Southern Generation Partnership Ltd/Pioneer Energy: Craig Rowe - Regional Manager (Contracting North), Peter Mulvihill - Consultant

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies: Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti (Bay of Plenty Regional Council)

Terewai Kalman (Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa)

Cr Tangonui Kingi (Alternate, Taupō District Council)

1. Karakia Whakatuwhera
Opening Karakia

Provided by Ngapera Rangiaho.

2. Ngā Hōnea
Apologies

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Accepts the apologies from Cr John Williamson (early departure), Cr Tangonui Kingi, Terewai Kalman and Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti for absence tendered at the meeting.

Winitana/Rangiaho

CARRIED

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

None declared.

4. Ngā Meneti
Minutes

Kia Whakaūngia Ngā Meneti
Minutes to be Confirmed

4.1

Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 3 December 2021

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Confirms the Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 3 December 2021 as a true and correct record.

Winitana/Silcock

CARRIED

5. Whakahoutanga Kōrero
Verbal Updates

5.1

Forum Members' Verbal Updates

Cr John Williamson – Taupo

· An update on the Taupō District Plan draft Strategic Directions chapter was still a work in progress and would be circulated at a future time by Hilary Samuel, Senior Policy Advisor.

No further updates were provided.

5.2	Manawa Energy Ltd (previously Trustpower Ltd) - Update on Reconsenting Projects and Matahina Upstream Eel Passage Project Presentation - Matahina Elver Passage and Wheao Reconsents Update - March 2022: Objective ID A4048972 Presented by: Ryan Piddington, Environmental & Regulatory Services Manager and Lisa Mead, Senior Environmental Advisor
	Key Points: · 2022 Matahina elver trap and transfer programme: o Upstream elver transfer to date was approximately 1.5 million. o 51,887 (3.5%) were identified as longfin tuna. o Current trend in recent years was moving up. · Matahina elver elevator project o Activity this year had focused on the in-river section of the elevator. o Project to date had gone well however, fabrication delays had delayed the in-river elevator trial in time for this year’s migration season. o An in-house trial had identified where further refinements could be made and how elver and native fish were navigating through the system. o An updated timeline anticipated the ladder system installation in April/May 2022, ready for the October 2022/February 2023 migration period. o Depending on the success of the in-river trial, next steps would be to install the elevator system in May/July 2023 in time to trial the full system in the next migration season in October 2023/February 2024. · Wheao reconsent update o Outlined the proposal, timeline and approach for the reconsent process. o Data collection/analysis would be shared with mana whenua in April-May 2022 for feedback. o Early discussions had begun with Ngāti Whare and Ngāti Manawa on starting the cultural impact assessments (CIAs) process in April/May. o Noted flexibility around the timing for lodgement of consent, pending completion of the CIAs. o Manawa Energy were looking forward to co-constructing solutions with mana whenua. o Outlined the environmental assessments that were being undertaken. o Noted aquatic data collection had identified the presence of long and short fin tuna and elver in the Rangitaiki above the Wheao confluence, which may not have been present historically before the trap and transfer programme. In Response to Questions: · Trapping of native fish species would be identified as part of the data collection. · Ngāti Manawa were looking to engage a consultant to undertake the CIAs for the Wheao reconsent process, which Manawa Energy were happy to resource. Key Points - Staff: · Maxeen Newton advised that Ngāti Manawa were in the process of working through the process of engaging a consultant to undertake the CIAs however, were prioritising implementing their Covid community recovery plan and tuna heke.
	Items for Follow Up: · Requested information on longfin tuna trends being consistent with past years.
	Resolved That the Rangitāiki River Forum: 1 Receives the presentation, Update on Reconsenting Projects and Matahina Upstream Eel Passage Project. Rangiaho/Araroa CARRIED

10:25 am - Cr John Williamson withdrew from the meeting.

5.3

Southern Generation Limited Partnership - Planned Sediment and Small Island Removal in the Rangitāiki River and the Upper Delta Areas of Lake Aniwaniwa

Presented by: Craig Rowe, Regional Manager Contracting North, Southern Generation Limited Partnership/Pioneer Energy and Peter Mulvihill, Consultant

Key Points:

· Provided background on flooding issues that had impacted farmers upstream of Lake Aniwaniwa and caused damage to the Kopuriki Road.

· Proposed work was planned downstream of the bridge to: improve drainage/flood protection upstream of the bridge, protect the bridge as a roading asset, prevent further infill of shallow wetlands on the south western shore of Lake Aniwaniwa, and maintain the lake as an open water area and live storage for hydro-generation.

· After investigating existing options for consent and gravel removal, a separate application for resource consent was being prepared to extract approximately 30,000 cubic metres about 600 metres downstream from the Kopuriki Bridge.

· After exploring the three options provided by the Opus report, the preferred option was to remove a 15 metre wide channel on the true right bank, along with the removal of some islands within the delta.

· Material would be placed on the bank, with methodology, logistics and options for using the gravel elsewhere being considered.

· Avoiding impacts to tuna migration and environmental/aquatic life had been discussed with Maurice Toitoi (Cultural Advisor for Ngati Manawa) and a protocol for a Ngāti Manawa cultural monitor was being worked through.

· Timing of the work was anticipated to take place after the April/May 2022 tuna migration season or next summer, depending on progress made with the consent application.

· Monitoring the impacts after gravel extraction and any ongoing mitigation would need to be reviewed and considered.

In Response to Questions:

· Interested in exploring market viability for gravel, however noted the primary goal was to improve flooding impacts.

· Would be keen to explore alternative long-term sustainable solutions to the flooding and sedimentation impacts, noting the first step would be to find out what the effects would be from this work.

10:48am - Cr John Williamson entered the meeting.

Key Points - Members:

· Requested Southern Generation, Kokopū Trust and Ngāti Manawa to discuss the protection of tuna downstream of the Aniwhenua Dam.

Key Points - Staff:

· Maxeen Newton (Pou Taiao, Te Runanga o Ngāti Manawa) provided the following comments:

o As mana whenua, Ngāti Manawa weren’t required to hold a trap and transfer permit like the hydro-electric stations.

o Consultation in regard to the consent would need to be undertaken with
Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa.

o Ngāti Manawa did not view dredging as a long-term solution, however were working with Southern Generation to find solutions for the protection of tuna.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Receives the Verbal Update from Southern Generation Limited Partnership.

Rangiaho/Clark

CARRIED

5.4

Update on Co-Governance Secretariat

Presented by: Herewini Simpson, Kaihautu (Te Amorangi Lead)

Key Points:

· Expressions of interest for tender of the co-governance secretariat role had been advertised over a six-week period.

· Only one application was received, however, the recruitment panel were satisfied that the applicant met the skillset and criteria for the role.

· In conjunction with the Rangitāiki River Forum and Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority Chairs, the applicant had been interviewed and Jane Waldon had been confirmed and successfully appointed to the role.

· Final contract details were being worked through and onboarding anticipated in the coming week.

· Jane would report directly to the co-governance Chairs.

· Developing a work programme of interest to the Forum would be the initial focus of the role.

· The role would have delegation to sub-contract and would be employed full-time in the first stages of establishment and adjust as time progressed.

Key Points - Members:

· Very pleased with the appointment of Jane Waldon to the secretariat role and looked forward to her working alongside the Forum.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Receives the Verbal Update on the Co-Governance Secretariat.

Bronco/Paul

CARRIED

6. Ngā Pūrongo
Reports

Ngā Whakatau e Hiahiatia Ana
Decisions Required

6.1

Membership Resignation and Appointment of a Deputy Chairperson

Key Points - Members:

· With the endorsement of the Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa Board, Karito Paul advised that Terewai Kalman agreed to be nominated for the appointment of the Deputy Chairperson.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

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

2 Selects System B as the voting system for the election of a Deputy Chairperson.

Araroa/Rangiaho

CARRIED

A nomination to appoint Terewai Kalman as the Deputy Chairperson was received by Karito Paul and Mei Winitana seconded the nomination. No further nominations were received.

3 Elects Terewai Kalman as the Deputy Chairperson of the Rangitāiki River Forum.

Paul/Winitana

CARRIED

Hei Pānui Anake
Information Only

6.2

November 2021 - February 2022 Rangitāiki Catchment Programme Dashboard Report

Presented by: Charles Harley, Team Leader Eastern Catchments

Key Points - Members:

· Noted that six wallaby surveillance cameras had been stolen from the Matahina Forest along the west bank of the Rangitāiki river.

· Tu O’Brien provided an update on progress made towards the installation of ablution facilities on the eastern side of the Thornton river mouth:

o The submission made to the Whakatāne District Council (WDC) Long Term Plan had not been received in time to be considered for LTP funding, however WDC were very supportive of the submission.

o Georgina Fletcher, WDC’s General Manager Community Experience was assisting to find other funding sources.

o The Rangitāiki Community Board had also conveyed their support.

o An application to Regional Council’s Environmental Enhancement Fund had been unsuccessful, as it did not meet the funding criteria.

Key Points - Staff:

Georgina Fletcher (WDC General Manager Community Experience) provided an update on amenity matters at the Thornton Reserve and river mouth:

· A letter of application was being prepared to seek funding from the Lions Foundation for a self-contained dry vault toilet on the eastern side of the river mouth. Waste would be collected, therefore eliminating any discharge to the environment.

· Letters of support had been provided by the Forum Chair on the Forum’s behalf and from the Rangitāiki Community Board.

· In regard to CCTV security cameras at Thornton reserve, WDC would not be proceeding with installation at this time, due to connectivity and technical interfacing difficulties with the NZ Police. To help alleviate the issues being experienced, the police had increased their presence over the summer period, which had improved behaviour in the reserve. The assistance of members of the community to report issues would also help to manage behaviour in the area.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Receives the report, November 2021 - February 2022 Rangitāiki Catchment Programme Dashboard Report.

Winters/Paul

CARRIED

6.3

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme 2022

Presentation - EFPP Update and Visions: Objective ID A4059405

Presented by: Gemma Moleta, Senior Policy Planner

Key Points:

· Central Government had made changes to the National Environmental Standards for Drinking Water (NESDW), which would need to be incorporated into the Essential Freshwater Policy Programme (EFPP).

· Provided a recap from the Forum’s previous meeting regarding the example vision that had been developed for the Rangitāiki, which reflected the vision and themes from Te Ara Whānui o Rangitāiki.

· Since the last Forum meeting, a letter had been sent to Iwi contacts to comment on the working draft vision option, with significant interest received from across the region.

· Insights and feedback from community on freshwater values via the online engagement tool, Participate BOP had provided five new contributions within the Rangitaiki covering: ecosystem health, human contact, fishing and mahinga kai, with general satisfaction noted for the current state.

· Staff were working on environmental outcomes for the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPSFM) values and using iwi management plans, community groups and catchment strategies, online feedback and NPS bottom lines as a starting point.

· Outlined the timeline for the EFPP and early ‘without prejudice’ feedback that was being sought prior to preparing draft policy.

· Next steps: online engagement in late April.

· Noted the informal hui scheduled after the Forum meeting with Forum Iwi members and wider Iwi representatives to discuss vision setting for the Rangitāiki river.

Key Points - Members:

· Submissions on the NESDW closed on 6 March 2022. Iwi members may want to consider the implications for marae, papakainga and private bores and consider making a submission.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Receives the report, Essential Freshwater Policy Programme 2022.

Winters/Araroa

CARRIED

7. Karakia Kati
Closing Karakia

Provided by Miro Araroa.

11:25am – the meeting closed.

Confirmed

Bronco Carson

Chairperson, Rangitāiki River Forum



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Rangitāiki River Forum
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	3 June 2022
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Shari Kameta, Committee Advisor
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Yvonne Tatton, Governance Manager Chris Ingle, General Manager, Integrated Catchments
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To advise and confirm a change in membership on the Rangitāiki River Forum (Forum).

Change in Membership

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

Ngāti Tūwharetoa (Bay of Plenty) Settlement Trust (the Trust) has advised that trustee Shaneen Simpson-Almond has been appointed to represent the Trust on the Forum, replacing Clifford Te Riini and Paora Hunia.

This report is to advise and seek confirmation of their membership change.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Receives the report, Change in Membership.

2 Confirms the appointment of Shaneen Simpson-Almond as the appointed member for Ngāti Tūwharetoa (Bay of Plenty) Settlement Trust, replacing Clifford Te Riini (Appointed Member) and Paora Hunia (Alternate member).

1. He Whakamārama
Background

Under the Ngāti Manawa and Ngāti Whare Settlement Acts[1], members are appointed and discharged by their appointing organisations.

Ngāti Tūwharetoa (Bay of Plenty) Settlement Trust has advised that their trustee Shaneen Simpson-Almond has been appointed on to the Forum as their representative following the end of term of office of trustees Clifford Te Riini and Paora Hunia on 20 November 2021.

Shaneen is an experienced Wahine Māori Governor and Māori Development Specialist serving as a Trustee and Company Director on boards involved with the Whakatāne Boat Harbour Development, Forest Road Engineering, Diary Farms, Iwi Fisheries, Geothermal development, Health, Marae and Māori Whenua development.

Shaneen is employed as a Senior Advisor for the Ministry of Māori Development, Te Puni Kōkiri, Whakatane.

She is married with three grown children, four mokopuna and she enjoys watching her mokopuna play sport, attending motor sports events and spending time with her whānau and friends.

It is noted that Forum membership allows for appointing entities to appoint an alternate member to attend and speak at meetings, and to vote when the primary member is absent, allowing for representation of both iwi and local authority partners at meetings. However, the Trust has chosen not to appoint an alternate member to the Forum at this time.

2. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

2.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

There are no significant risks associated with this matter.

2.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

2.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

The matters addressed in this report are of a procedural nature and there is no need to consider implications for Māori.

2.4 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

Engagement with the community is not required as the recommended decision relates to administrative matters.

2.5 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

There are no financial implications with this matter.

3. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

Appropriate induction and information will be provided to support new members where required.



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Rangitāiki River Forum
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	3 June 2022
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Gemma Moleta, Senior Planner (Water Policy)
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Namouta Poutasi, General Manager, Strategy & Science
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To update the Rangitāiki River Forum on Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Implementation progress relevant to the Rangitāiki

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

This report provides the Rangitāiki River Forum (RRF) with an update on Toi Moana’s Essential Freshwater Policy mahi relevant to the Rangitāiki co-governance area, highlighting opportunities to be involved. This includes:

· Exploring water quality and ecology state and trends using the new online WET (Water Ecology Tool);

· Participating in online public engagement on long-term visions and outcomes for freshwater;

· Noting that summary information and draft policy options are developing, and Toi Moana staff intend to invite iwi to provide feedback this year, prior to public engagement in 2023.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Receives the report, Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update.

1. He Whakamārama
Background

The Essential Freshwater Policy Programme (EFPP) is Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s (Toi Moana) work programme to implement the requirements of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPSFM) and also review the Regional Natural Resources Plan (RNRP). Overall, the EFPP continues to be implemented according to Toi Moana’s agreed programme plan, although there are some parts which are behind schedule. Tight timeframes are necessary to achieve notification of changes to the RPS & RNRP by 2024 as required by the legislation. This report provides an update on implementation progress most relevant to the Rangitāiki co-governance area.

2. Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

2.1 Tangata whenua engagement

Since the last RRF meeting we have held two informal hui with iwi to discuss the example vision sent to iwi representatives in January. The initial meeting (4 March 2022) raised matters including:

· The spiritual/wairua aspect in Te Reo is not translated across into English, the English version does not do it justice.

· Vision needs to include a Mātauranga Māori perspective

· Statements are too broad, too vague, too clinical (use layman’s terms). Keen to see what the goals look like in practice e.g. for tuna and wetlands.

· Needs more discussion and more personalised statements.

Following the initial meeting we discussed alternatives such as the use of ngā huarahi or desired outcomes from the river document. Key points from the meeting held on 1 April 2022 were:

· We must measure success through a tangata whenua lens, values, tohu and actions. Mātauranga has to be a part of monitoring attributes for tuna. Opportunity for local kaitiaki to take a key role in monitoring as part of partnership in action. Still need to confirm what tohu are appropriate for monitoring success.

· Te Ara Whānui covers our desired outcomes. The whakaaro is right and the intent is there to maintain the integrity of the river document. The sets of examples are okay but can be better. Keen to see the vision include the doing/direction e.g. ‘protect’ tuna. Council staff noted the exact wording wasn’t important at this stage so much as the intent and the goals iwi seek.

· Council staff reiterated that the current freshwater process must be consistent with any directions or visions under the iwi participation legislation.

2.2 Community engagement

Throughout this year, Toi Moana staff will provide information for the public, provide opportunity for involvement via online engagement on vision and outcomes, and aim to develop community interest and readiness to engage on policy options relevant to them in 2023.

Online engagement has now been launched and is available here https://www.participate.boprc.govt.nz/vision-and-outcomes. It invites everyone to have their say about:

• The freshwater values important to them and whether they need to be maintained or improved;

• Their long-term (10 - 50 year) goals / visions/ environmental outcomes are for areas they most relate to.

A brief demonstration will be provided to the RRF. This builds on the earlier online kōrero about what freshwater spots people value and why. It will help inform the long-term vision and environmental outcomes for a freshwater management unit. The long-term vision and environmental outcomes will guide what targets and rules we set in the plan, how ambitious these should be and how long they might take to achieve.

2.3 Water Ecology Tool - WET

The WET (water quality reporting tool) has now been launched, via the Freshwater Flash newsletter that was released in March.

You can now find water quality current state, baseline state (2017) and trends from over 270 long-term monitoring sites across the region on the new interactive Water Ecology Tool – WET. WET is Toi Moana’s new interactive tool that allows users to view water quality data without needing to trawl through technical reports.

In WET, data can be refined by indicator, freshwater management unit or rohe to view baseline states, current states, and trends. WET, state of the environment reports and science snapshots can also be found here. A technical report that partners with the WET tool will be published soon. A demonstration of WET will be provided at the RRF meeting.

2.4 Draft policy change options

Toi Moana staff are working at pace to draft policy change options that would be the subject of community engagement throughout 2023. It is intended that they will be reported to upcoming Strategy and Policy Committee workshops and meetings, although there will be gaps that still need to be advanced. For clarity, no decisions on options will be sought, only confirmation that the topics need to be discussed with the community.

2.5 Changes to national resource management and freshwater regulations

There continues to be multiple upcoming legislative, regulatory and policy changes relevant to resource management, including those specifically relating to freshwater management affecting the EFPP. Further detail is available here within the Strategy and Policy agenda 4 May 2020 – Operating Environment and Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update papers.

3. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

3.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

There are no significant risks associated with this matter/subject/project/initiative.

3.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

The matters addressed in this report are of a procedural nature and there is no need to consider climate change impacts. Climate change impacts will be considered as part of implementing the NPSFM and reviewing the RNRP.

3.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

The NPSFM sets out requirements to involve tangata whenua in the management of freshwater and Council is progressing this in accordance with Te Hononga, Toi Moana’s Māori engagement approach for implementing the NPSFM and review of the regional plan.

Te Mana o Te Wai in the NPSFM 2020 represents a significant shift by central government to recognise the importance of tangata whenua involvement in the management of freshwater. Importantly, it signals inclusion of Mātauranga Māori in shaping up the policies that will be included in the notified plan changes.

3.4 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

CONSULT

Whakauiuia

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

Community engagement on freshwater visions, values and outcomes will be primarily online in 2022. See the section on community engagement within the report. In 2023, Toi Moana will engage across the region on policy options and implications.

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

NPSFM implementation and supporting RRF are both core Toi Moana functions. They are both supported by the strategic framework and align with aspirations in Te Ara Whānui o Rangitāiki – the Rangitāiki River Document.

3.6 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

There are no financial implications for RRF associated with this report.

4. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

Toi Moana staff will:

1. Promote public participation in online engagement on long term visions and environmental outcomes for freshwater.

2. Continue to invite and encourage iwi involvement in co-drafting of long-term visions and environmental outcomes for freshwater.

3. Continue to support various iwi led projects to advance their input and advice into this work programme.

4. Continue to progress key policy workstreams at pace, including surface water quantity, groundwater quantity, water quality and ecosystem health in Freshwater Management Units, such as the Rangitāiki.

5. Share summary information and draft policy option material relevant to the Rangitāiki with RRF and iwi. Invite iwi to provide feedback this year, prior to public engagement in 2023.



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Rangitāiki River Forum
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	3 June 2022
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Kirsty Brown, Rivers and Drainage Assets Manager
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Chris Ingle, General Manager, Integrated Catchments
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To provide an update from the recent Rangitāiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme Advisory Group meeting held 6 May 2022.

Update from the Rangitaiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme Advisory Group

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

This report has been created to facilitate better communication flow between the Rangitāiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme Advisory Group and the Rangitāiki River Forum by providing a high-level overview of key topics from the advisory group’s recent meeting held 6 May 2022.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1 Receives the report, Update from the Rangitaiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme Advisory Group.

1. He Whakamārama
Background

The primary purpose of our river scheme advisory groups is to provide for scheme ratepayer input into decisions around annual maintenance operations, capital programme delivery and the management of scheme flood protection and drain assets.

1. Key Topics

1.1 Scheme Capital Works Programme 2022-23

Updates provided on the following capital works projects:

· Rangitāiki Floodway Stage 6C and spillway.

· Rangitāiki Floodwalls upgrade – College Road.

· Tarawera River left bank stopbank upgrade.

· Lower Rangitāiki River left bank stopbank upgrade – Thornton Beach Road.

1.2 Scheme Maintenance Works Programme 2022-23

Overview of the scheme maintenance works programme to-date, including:

· Repairs to three annual flood damage sites.

· Rock replenishment on the lower reaches of the Reid’s Central Canal.

· Repairing high priority defects identified through recent asset condition assessments including tree removal and stopbank restoration.

· Ongoing control of rabbits and pest plants including Alligator weed.

· Collaborative native planting projects funded through Trustpower’s Rangitāiki River Environment Fund.

· Working with Rangitāiki Hapū Coalition with native planting restoration through Te Teko.

· Installation of fish friendly floodgates on the Awaiti Stream into Omeheu Canal and the Orini wetland into Reid’s Central Canal.

1.3 Online Survey Findings and Advisory Groups Terms of Reference Review

Summarised findings from the recent online survey and information on the group’s Terms of Reference Review currently underway.

1.4 Gravel Extraction

Gravel management currently occurs in the Rangitāiki River upstream of Matahina Dam. No extraction is carried out in the reaches below Matahina Dam.

The principal extraction areas are the Horomanga River and the Kopuriki Stream both supported by Council’s Environmental Engineer due to perching of the stream bed.

Benefits to the river system of the extraction include:

· Reducing the potential for flooding from a severely aggraded stream.

· Reducing the potential for the stream to avulse (jump out of its bed and change course).

· Improving the flood carrying capacity of road bridges.

There has been no extraction from the Horomanga River to date in 2021/22 and 5,000m3 of material has been extracted from the Kopuriki Stream during that time.

1.5 General Business

The General Business report included the following items:

· Findings from the recent infrastructure insurance review and flood risk assessment undertaken by Aon and Tonkin & Taylor.

· Renewal of grazing licences underway.

· Findings and recommendations from the Christensen Consulting Ltd review of the April 2017 flood repair programme.

2. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

2.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

There are no significant risks associated with this matter/subject/project/initiative.

2.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

2.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Iwi and hapū are significant landowners within the rivers and drainage schemes. Our flood protection and drainage infrastructure contributes towards protecting waahi tapu sites, marae and local housing from floodwaters, and maintains productive land from high ground water.

Building strong, effective and meaningful partnerships with Māori helps ensure our infrastructure assets meet community needs. Improving the communication link between the Advisory Group and the River Forum will enable the opportunity to adopt more of a Te Ao Māori lens and Mātauranga Māori approach in river scheme decisions and practices.

2.4 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

3. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

Updates from the bi-annual Rangitaiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme Advisory Group meetings will be provided at future meetings.

[1] s108 Ngāti Manawa Claims Settlement Act 2012, s112 Ngāti Whare Claims Settlement Act 2012