Agenda of Komiti Māori - Tuesday, 16 August 2022

Komiti Māori Minutes

28 June 2022

Komiti Māori

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing: Tuesday 28 June 2022, 9.32 am

Venue: Council Chambers, Regional House, 1 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga and Via Zoom (Audio Visual Meeting)

Heamana

Chairperson: Cr Matemoana McDonald

Heamana Tuarua

Deputy Chairperson: Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti

Ngā Kopounga

Members: Cr Norm Bruning

Chairman Doug Leeder

Cr David Love

Cr Stuart Crosby

Via Zoom:

Cr Bill Clark

Cr Jane Nees

Cr Stacey Rose

Cr Paula Thompson

Cr Lyall Thurston

Cr Andrew von Dadelszen

Cr Te Taru White

Cr Kevin Winters

In Attendance: Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana: Kataraina O’Brien - Tumu Herenga Tangata - Director Strategic Engagement (Via Zoom), Sarah Omundsen – Acting Chief Executive, Chris Ingle – General Manager Integrated Catchments (Via Zoom), Nathan Capper – Pou Ngaio (Technical/Cultural), Rawiri Bhana – Senior Advisor (Treaty), Reuben Gardiner – Senior Planner (water Policy), Ashleigh Grant – Kaikarere/Communications Partner, Natalie Richards – Community Engagement Advisor, Georgia Thomson - Community Engagement Advisor, Shari Kameta - Committee Advisor; Via Zoom: Herewini Simpson (Kaihautu – Te Amorangi Lead), Anaru Vercoe (Pou Whainga – Principal Advisor)

Externals: Julie Shepherd, Monica Nee Nee – Pou Taiao Ltd; Chrissy McLeod; Maru Tapsell; Via Zoom: James Hudson – Principal, Waiora Systems, Ian Ruru, Wolfgang Kanz – Awamoana Limited, Akuhata Bailey-Winiata, Sonny Vercoe, Daria Bell, Amy Nattrass, Brooklyn Lea

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies: None

1. Opening Prayer
Karakia Whakatuwhera

A karakia was provided by Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti.

Declaration of Public Recording

The Chair advised that the public section of the meeting was being recorded and would be made available on the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website and archived for a period of three years.

Recording of the Meeting: Komiti Maori Meeting - 28 June 2022 - YouTube

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

None declared.

3. Minutes
Ngā Meneti

Minutes to be Confirmed
Kia Whakaūngia Ngā Meneti

3.1

Komiti Māori Minutes - 13 April 2022

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Confirms the Komiti Māori Minutes - 13 April 2022 as a true and correct record.

McDonald/Iti

CARRIED

4. Presentations
Whakaaturanga

4.1

Environment Aotearoa 2022 and Integration of Mātauranga Māori

Presentation - Innovating Mātauranga Māori - The case of Environment Aotearoa 2022: Objective ID A4126395

Presented by: James Hudson - Principal, Waiora Systems

James Hudson presented on his recent experience working with the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) for the production of their recent synthesis report, Environment Aotearoa 2022 (the report).

Key Points - Presenter:

· Central government was working more closely with Māori, using system-wide data informed by Te Tiriti o Waitangi with closer connections to wellbeing and Māori performance measures/indicators.

· In the report, MfE aimed to address four key recommendations from the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment’s 2019 Report to: include drivers and outlooks; expand indicator context with broader evidence base; connect environmental issues to place; and interface with te ao Māori.

· Project group of government official leads, western science/Mātauranga Māori researchers and external pūkenga (environmental experts) developed and shaped the report using a Te Tiriti-based process.

· The report’s composition:

o Used a Matariki framework guided by Professor Dr Ranginui Mātāmua

o Recognised connection between environmental/human wellbeing

o Reflected an integrated eco-system approach with te ao Māori interface

o Innovation/design/development signalled a new way of reporting

o Integrated Mātauranga Māori content throughout the nine chapters, specific to the nine whetu (stars) of the Matariki constellation

· Identified insights/learnings from the design/development process.

· Acknowledged MfE and Statistics NZ’s leadership for their openness and doing things differently.

· Innovating Mātauranga Māori was based on experience and practical application that works for everyone.

In Response to Questions:

· The report was a good first step to show what was possible. In terms of the depth of Mātauranga Māori contained in the report, the project group had been realistic in what could be produced with the limited time and resource that was available.

· Due to transitioning to a new format the report had a broader content level of data/analysis. Whether the same format would be used in future reporting remained to be seen.

· Research/data/knowledge used in the report had been informed by robust debate/wananga and it had been acknowledged there were different views and concepts held throughout the country and various rohe. Approval had been gained by the respective information providers via direct engagement and using an audit process that was in line with the WAI 262 (intellectual property) inquiry.

· The report aimed to align and where appropriate blend Mātauranga Māori with western science while maintaining the integrity of the separate streams of information.

Key Points - Members:

· Congratulated James, the working group and MfE for the transformational change and innovation used to co-create/design/develop the report.

· Regional Council Toi Moana had embarked on its own journey to look at how it integrates and applies Mātauranga Māori within its regional policy and plans.

· Commended the report and its content which would educate the wider population on Mātauranga Māori concepts.

10:36 am – Cr Crosby withdrew from the meeting.

· Emphasized the importance of the concept of Mātauranga Māori being told through story and maintaining its integrity, protection and application first and foremost by the holders of the Mātauranga (knowledge).

4.2

Development of a National Mahinga Kai Toolkit

Presentation - Implementing Mahinga Kai as a Māori Freshwater Value: Objective ID A4127374

Presented by: Ian Ruru and Wolfgang Kanz - Pou Whakarae | Director, Awamoana

10:46 am – Cr Crosby entered the meeting.

Key Points - Presenters:

· The tikanga-based solution that was used to remove mortuary waste from Turanganui a Kiwi waterways was a monumental shift to pass a bylaw and provided a practical example of Mātauranga Māori being used and applied.

· Acknowledged those who had contributed to the development of the National Mahinga Kai toolkit (kete).

· Mahinga kai was a compulsory value and practical example of giving effect to Te Mana o Te Wai (TMoTW) and key principles of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPSFM). Elevation of the value was a substantial improvement to previous iterations of the NPSFM.

· The kete’s primary purpose was to provide a resource to assist councils and tangata whenua to work together to enable mahinga kai to integrate with the NPSFM’s National Objectives Framework (NOF) process.

· The kete provided context, tools, resources and practical examples of mahinga kai and ways to implement it.

· Mahinga kai was qualitative, different to other scientific quantitative values, connected people with place, was inter-generational, holistic and integrated with other values.

· Provided resources/visual examples to aid the process for tangata whenua.

· Engagement with tangata whenua was key.

In Response to Questions:

· Acknowledged the need to develop learning resources and different ways to articulate/communicate mahinga kai concepts that were site/tangata whenua specific.

· Considered that the NPSFM hierarchy of obligations were interlinked, which had been echoed by tangata whenua in the kete’s development process.

· Mahinga kai measurements were likely to be more qualitative than quantitative, which the kete aimed to capture the non-quantitative elements for the NOF process.

· Mahinga kai attributes were personal and needed to be identified by mana whenua and could not be predetermined. However, the process undertaken with mana whenua had recognized it would be impractical to monitor too many attributes, which mana whenua would need to consider.

Key Points - Members:

· Commended the kete and visual aids provided to assist in understanding.

· Suggested that providing the kete in a documentary format for wider use.

· Considered there were still resources and gaps to be filled to help translate and assist the implementation process.

11:35 am – the meeting adjourned.

11:50 am – the meeting reconvened.

11:56 am – Cr Rose withdrew from the meeting.

4.3

Aroturuki Cultural Monitoring Framework and Guide

Presentation - Feasibility study for Cultural Monitor Training Framework: Objective ID A4127344

Presented by: Julie Shepherd and Monique Nee Nee - Pou Taiao Ltd

Key Points - Presenters:

· The Aroturuki Cultural Monitoring Framework and Guide clarified the role of a cultural monitor and provided a framework for developing cultural monitors’ skillsets while ensuring individual autonomy, tikanga and mana of iwi/hapū are maintained.

· There was currently no online resource available/accessible to support cultural monitoring capability. Pou Taiao Ltd (PTL) wished to provide the guide as a free resource for tangata whenua and for the guide to be hosted/accessible on Regional Council’s website. The guide could be utilised and adapted by iwi/hapū as a starting point.

· ‘Aroturuki’ was the te reo Māori term for ‘monitor’ which PTL wished to be used in place of the English term ‘cultural monitor’.

· The demand for aroturuki within resource consenting processes had led to PTL designing the framework to support skillset development and improve participation, consistency and capability.

· Outlined the cultural monitor’s role, areas of current demand, the importance of iwi/hapū creating te ao Māori synergies and maintaining mana and their individual/unique identity.

· Summarised results from a quantitative research undertaken with aroturuki, which provided insights into existing levels of knowledge/experience, and qualitative survey/insights from sectors that engage and work alongside of aroturuki in the field.

· It was important for aroturuki to be supported in their role and that the role is sustainable and afforded appropriate recognition/integrity.

· Wished to follow-up further with Regional Council staff to broaden the guide and make it more useful.

· Thanked Regional Council and staff for their support to develop the guide.

In Response to Questions:

· Ensuring aroturuki had the necessary mana/authority was an important consideration, which required the mandate from their hapū to perform the role. The guide provided guidance to ensure the right permission processes were used.

· Would like to see an appropriate status or qualification established for the role alongside the role of archaeologists.

Key Points - Members:

· Applauded Julie and Monique for developing the guide as a resource to build capability/capacity, empower and improve the level of understanding and professionalism of the role of aroturuki/tangata whenua.

· Recognised the importance for the cultural monitor role to gain a level of mana, recognition, authority and influence in the field.

· Would like to see the guide and programme trialled and rolled out across the region to give the role substance on the ground.

Key Points – Staff:

· Nathan Capper, Pou Ngaio Technical/Cultural commended and noted that the guide would empower aroturuki and their presence on earthwork sites and across Te Mana o Te Wai implementation workstreams.

5. Reports
Ngā Pūrongo

5.1

Chairperson's Report

Presented by: Kataraina O’Brien, Tumu Herenga Tangata - Director Strategic Engagement

Key Points:

· Provided background on the He Toka Tu Moana (HTTM) Scholarship Fund which was established in memory of the late Awanuiārangi Black.

· HTTM scholarship recipients: Akuhata Bailey-Winiata, Sonny Vercoe, Daria Bell, Amy Nattrass, Brooklyn Lea were in attendance via Zoom and Rangipurei Manley (recorded) and provided a brief kōrero of their current studies and aspirations.

· Scholarship recipients said the HTTM fund had provided invaluable support to assist financial burden and enable them to focus on their studies towards their career pathways. They expressed thanks to Council for its support in providing the scholarship.

12:47 pm – Cr Crosby withdrew from the meeting.

Key Points - Members:

· Congratulated the HTTM scholarship recipients.

· Noted consideration towards increasing the He Toka Tumoana Scholarship Fund in the next Long Term Plan process to further support recipients in their studies.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

· Provide a list of the Rotorua municipal water takes that will be involved in the cultural flow project as part of the reconsenting process.

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Chairperson's Report.

Iti/Thurston

CARRIED

6. Closing Prayer
Karakia Kati

A karakia was provided by Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti.

1:00 pm – the meeting closed.

Confirmed

Cr Matemoana McDonald

Chairperson, Komiti Māori

Komiti Māori 16 August 2022



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Komiti Māori
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	16 August 2022
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Nic Newman, Principal Advisor
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Chris Ingle, General Manager, Integrated Catchments
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To provide an update on Council’s Climate Adaptation work

Climate Change Adaptation Update

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

This report is an update on Council’s climate adaptation work and introduces external speakers who will describe their climate adaptation mahi.

Since declaring a climate emergency, Council has developed a climate change position statement and a climate action plan. The action plan has 19 projects, aligned to four goals. This report relates to work that is funded in the 2021-2031 Long Term Plan, that delivers against the third and fourth goal.

Council has completed climate projections for our region and are working to complete a regional risk assessment. This will identify what is at risk and critical stepping stones in the adaptation cycle. Community led adaptation funding supports community groups who are ready to take the first steps. Five projects have been funded so far, all of which are hapū/iwi led.

Adjacent to this paper, the committee will receive 2 presentations from the first of the community led projects to complete and from a leading post-graduate researcher on sea level rise and impacts on marae.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Climate Change Adaptation Update.

1. Kupu Whakataki
Introduction

This report provides an update on specific initiatives that Council is undertaking in the climate adaptation space. It also sets the scene for two external presenters who will speak on their own perspectives and progress.

Our region is vulnerable to a changing climate. The planet has warmed by about 1.2 degrees since pre-industrial times and current policies presently in place around the world are projected to result in about 2.7°C warming by the end of the century. For our region, some of the ways this will manifest include an in increased likelihood and intensity of extreme rainfall, sea-level rise and coastal inundation, an increase in hot days, and increased drought risk along with fewer frosts. These changes potentially impact the things we value such as: our cultural heritage, freshwater and marine ecosystems, communities based around coasts, harbours, river mouths and flood plains, primary production, and the health and well-being of our elderly. Particular risks for Māori include: risks to cultural sites, risks to cultural practice, and risks to accentuating existing inequalities, along with wider risks to the natural resource based industries and livelihoods that rely on these industries.

Since declaring a climate emergency, Council has developed a climate change position statement and a climate action plan. The action plan contains 19 projects across both mitigation and adaptation, aligned to four goals. These goals are:

· Bay of Plenty Regional Council is net zero carbon by 2050

· Reducing regional greenhouse gas emissions

· As a region we understand, are preparing for and adapting to a changing climate.

· Our Bay of Plenty community is aware, engaged and resilient

This report relates to work that is funded in the 2021-2031 Long Term Plan and that delivers against the third and fourth goal.

Central Government has recently released its draft National Adaptation Plan which aims to address the top risks in the national climate risk assessment. It is an all of government approach to climate adaptation. The ‘Climate Adaptation Act’ is legislation scheduled to be introduced late in this parliamentary term. Indications are that this will address the complex technical and legal issues associated with managed retreat. It may also address issues around funding adaptation actions.

In the region, Te Arawa has developed a climate change strategy ‘Te Ara ki Kōpū’, focused on navigating through climate change to ensure continuity and wellbeing of Te Arawa whakapapa and taonga.

Other regions and districts across Aotearoa are beginning to grapple with how to adapt. Ultimately adaptation will need to happen at a range of scales and will always be very nuanced to local situations.

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

Climate Change is an organisational priority for Toi Moana, being one of three priority ‘impact areas’. This work directly contributes to the climate change impact area, along with partnerships with Māori and community participation.

This work also aligns with the Safe and Resilient Communities Outcome and in particular the sub outcomes:

· our communities understand the natural hazard and climate change risks they live with

· our partners and our organisation incorporate climate change and hazard risk into planning and decision making

· our region’s natural hazard risks, in particular flood risk, are managed through how we work, in a way that is affordable and takes a long-term perspective

1.1.1 Community Well-beings Assessment

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

þ Cultural

þ Social

þ Economic

Climate Change will affect each of the well-beings in our region and communities. From direct impacts on our natural environment and natural resource-based industries, to economic impacts from changes in production and transition to a low emissions economy, to challenging social impacts as some communities grapple with changes to how and where they live, to direct physical impacts on cultural sites and impacts on cultural identity which is tied to the environment.

2. Climate Adaptation update on progress

Three specific adaptation initiatives Council is leading are detailed here. We are helping to provide a regional perspective with information and resources to enable the region to adapt, we are supporting local communities who are ready to start their own adaptation planning, and we are also addressing the resilience of our river schemes. We are also incorporating a changing climate into our wider work existing such as natural hazards mapping and advice, freshwater planning, and land management advice.

2.1 Facilitating a Regional View

Council is facilitating a regional adaptation view where it makes sense to do so. Ultimately adaptation will be very much place based, however there are useful regional roles. We have worked with NIWA to downscale national climate projections to be specific for our region. The resulting technical report, summary video, and interactive maps are resources for our regional communities to use to better understand how climate change affects our region.

Following an understanding of climate projections for the region, next, we need to understand what is at risk. We have contracted Tonkin and Taylor to produce a regional risk assessment. The purpose of the assessment is to provide a regional overview of current and future climate risks. The outputs will be able to inform adaptation planning at a range of scales and by range of parties, it will raise community awareness, and will support any further assessments at a district/local scale.

The first phase of the project identified a long list of potential risks across a range of fields using a survey to stakeholders and an in-person workshop, along with a number of on-line hui. The second phase, which is currently underway, is involving more than 12 expert workshops across a range of risks. Concurrently a Te Ao Māori working group are producing Māori perspectives on climate risk for the region.

This project follows national guidance for local risk assessments and an international methodology. It assesses risk across 3 timescales and 3 emission pathways. The output will be a regional risk assessment that contains a technical assessment of risks for the region, Te Ao Māori narrative on climate risk in the region, and a discussion on the potential consequences of these risk.

Initial thinking is to present the completed risk assessment to the mayoral forum, following a presentation to Council. This first risk assessment for the region is an important stepping-stone in the adaptation cycle. It will assist with a regional perspective and understanding of climate risks over time.

2.2 Supporting Community-Led Adaptation

While taking time to understand a regional perspective, Council has acknowledged that some communities (particularly coastal hapū) can already see changes in the climate and are keen to start adaptation planning. The 2021-2031 LTP provides $70k per annum, for the first three years, to support community led adaptation planning. Staff have developed the fund management to support this initiative^{^[1]} and two funding rounds have been held to date. Five community projects have now been funded to a maximum of $15k each. Each of these projects are hapū or iwi led, demonstrating the strong connection to place and localism associated with adaptation.

The first project funded is with the Maketū iwi collective. The project has been based around a series of wānanga developing a shared understanding with the community of climate change and potential risks for the community of Maketū. The output from the project will be an action plan that will detail the next steps and proactive efforts of the community in response. This will be the first funded project to complete and will be presented to the committee.

The second project is led by Ngāi Tamawhariua ki Te Rereatukahia. The project will bring together existing climate information and draw this down to the context of Rereatukahia. Along with local Mātauranga the project will identify risks for papakāinga, communal buildings, and wider impacts on the hapū and the taiao. Finally, the project will identify next steps for the community in adaptation planning.

The third project is with Te Manatōpū Hau Kainga o Ōhinemutu, a village residents’ collective for the village of Ōhinemutu on Lake Rotorua. The project will develop a climate resilience plan, identifying risks to cultural infrastructure, and scope potential adaptation steps for the future.

The fourth project is led by Te Urunga o Kea: Te Arawa Climate Change Working Group. The project will map the current state of Te Arawa food production, accessibility, and resilience. This will enable an understanding of where the iwi is placed in terms of food security and food sovereignty under a changing climate. It will also identify initiatives to support upscaling of maari kai efforts.

The final project is led by Te Upokorehe Iwi Resource Management Team and the village of Kutarere on Ōhiwa Harbour. The aim of the project is to improve the resilience of Kutarere village which is exposed to river flooding and storm surges associated with high tides. The project will bring together climate projections and local knowledge to consider short, medium, and long term actions.

2.3 River Scheme Climate Resilience

Council has a clear role to lead the adaptation response for the region’s river schemes. Increased intensity and likelihood of extreme rainfall events, coupled with sea level rise means we need to assess the long-term resilience of the Council’s river schemes. Council has initiated a significant project which will review the future resilience of these schemes to climate change. The goals of the project are: a reduction in flood risk for the Bay of Plenty, adaptation to climate change, community engagement, and affordability.

The current focus of the project is on the Waioeka-Otara Rivers Scheme in the Ōpōtiki District. The project has begun with an initial workshop to share knowledge with representatives of Ōpōtiki District Council and Waioeka and Otara river hapū. Over the coming years the project will engage the wider community in conversations about the future protection provided by the scheme and how to adapt to climate change. Affordability and the concept of ‘making room for the river’ are important principles which will also need consideration.

The Whakatāne-Tauranga Rivers Scheme is also a priority for the project. Seepage work in the lower catchment is being undertaken which is necessary now and does not foreclose any future options developed with the community. In the Rangitāiki Scheme, the current floodway upgrade project will increase the capacity of the floodway and reduce pressure on the river. This multi-stage project widened the channel, raised the stopbanks and created a second outlet into the lower Rangitāiki River. This can be considered as the first adaptive pathway or first stage in climate adaptation for the scheme. The Kaituna Scheme is the fourth priority for the project.

As the climate future is uncertain, the project will take a ‘dynamic adaptive pathway’ approach to the future management of the schemes. The project will navigate future river flood peaks with increasing temperature as the planet warms, and therefore consider how various interventions might accommodate climate change over time. By planning in stages with the end in mind, investment can then be staged, depending how future emissions and warming proceed.

3. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

3.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

The receipt of this report does pose any risk for Council. Council has made a solid start in the climate adaptation space and is well connected with progress in other regions and nationally. Our community-led adaptation initiative is being watched closely by other regions and central government.

3.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

Climate Change Adaptation is the subject matter of this report.

3.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Climate Change could potentially have not only significant physical, but spiritual impact on hapu and iwi in the region. There are potential risks to cultural sites, cultural practice, and the risk of accentuating existing inequalities. As cultural identity can be tied into the environment, climate change has the potential to threaten this connection in a physical sense with impact on iwi and hapū who occupy vulnerable places. Risks may not be limited to just the environment, rather those who inhabit it and the impact that changes in the environment can have on them.

The majority of marae in the Bay of Plenty region are located within 1 km of the coast or in low lying areas, and therefore have potential to be exposed to flooding and coastal hazards. Damage to marae can have serious implications for Māori health and wellbeing and along with wider community implications. For example, marae are also often used as evacuation centres during natural hazard events.

The economic livelihood of many of the region’s iwi are linked to natural resources, through activities such as farming, forestry, conservation, aquaculture, tourism. These economic and social livelihoods are potentially vulnerable to ecosystem changes caused by climate.

Te Arawa has developed a climate change strategy ‘Te Ara ki Kōpū’. The strategy is focused on navigating Te Arawa whānau, hapū and iwi through climate change to ensure continuity and wellbeing of Te Arawa whakapapa and taonga. Two of the community led adaptation projects that have been funded align with and contribute to this strategy. This funding also contributes to and aligns with hapū management plan implementation e.g. the Maketū project contributes to objective 15 of the Ngāti Whakaue Hapū Management Plan ‘We are prepared for and resilient to flooding, coastal erosion, and the effects of climate change’.

The exclusive uptake of the community funding by hapū/iwi points to the concern and readiness for adaptation planning. The regional risk assessment is working hard to include Te Ao Māori perspectives alongside the technical risk assessment. The River Scheme Resilience project is working alongside river the hapū and district council partners.

3.4 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

The actions described in this report cross the spectrum of community engagement. The provision of technical information for use by communities and partners is an informing role. Council is involving communities and partners in the regional risk assessment work. We are looking to co-operate with partners to develop solutions through the river scheme climate resilience work. We are looking to empower local communities to begin their own adaptation planning through our community led adaptation funding.

3.5 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

However, it is worth noting that the matter of ‘who pays’ for significant climate adaptation actions, is not yet resolved. Staff understand that the Climate Adaptation legislation currently under preparation may provide some resolution to this issue.

The regional sector has produced a compelling business case for central government co-investment in flood protection schemes, based on the value to the nation of the assets protected by these schemes.

4. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

During the next period (for the three initiatives that have been discussed): the third round of funding for community-led adaptation projects will close (October 31), the Climate Change Regional Risk Assessment will be completed, and further workshops will be held on the Waioeka-Otara Rivers Climate Resilience project.

Climate Change will be a subject for a briefing for new councillors, following local body elections. There appears to be a shift occurring in the community, leaning in towards ‘getting ready to adapt’.

Alongside this report, external presenters will provide their own perspectives and insights into climate change adaptation in our region, and future opportunities.

Komiti Māori 16 August 2022



Report To:	Komiti Māori
Meeting Date:	16 August 2022
Report Authoriser:	Kataraina O’Brien

Ripoata o Te Tiamana (Chairperson's Report)

Executive Summary

This report provides a collective update on matters within Komiti Māori focus area and general matters of interest across the regional Māori landscape, including:

1. Tangata whenua presentations:

· Bay of Plenty Futures Academy staff and students will kōrero on trade training initiatives for high School students.

· Ngāti Rangitihi representatives will co-present on the Ngāti Rangitihi Treaty Settlement and the Tarawera River Restoration Group.

· Akuhata Bailey-Winiata has a PhD Masters Thesis and was a recipient of He Toka Tū Moana Scholarship. And will be presenting on his research into Sea Level Rise and Risks to Marae.

· Roana Bennett and Jimmy O’Callaghan will co-present on the Maketū Climate Change Adaptation Plan.

· Chris Karamea Insley will be presenting on the perspectives on Climate Change and Māori Economy.

· Elva Conroy will present about the ongoing work she is doing in SmartGrowth and the Combined Tangata Whenua Forum.

2. A series of brief updates on matters including:

· Māori Partnerships work programme and key achievements to date.

· Changing Operating Environment - current matters of significance, policy proposals and reforms of potential interest or implication, within the broader Māori operating environment.

Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Ripoata o Te Tiamana (Chairperson's Report).

1. Kaupapa Tuatahi: Guest Presenter Profiles

1.1 Bay of Plenty Futures Academy

Presenter: Cindy Lee (BOPFA), Julie Pura MacKenzie (MoE) and Students

The Bay of Plenty Futures Academy (FA) is an academy where high school students can receive trades training (1-5 days a week) for free, as part of high school. Over 860 students have been enrolled this year across the Bay of Plenty (60% of whom are Maori). FA has contracted with nine local tertiary providers to deliver trades courses linked to regional workforce needs to our students.

This year FA has piloted investing some of our training funding to add value to collective impact in a community. As such, we linked with the Whakatōhea and Ngāti Awa Iwi to add and offer complementary training that will help our young people towards good local employment and for our region to grow strategically.

· Whakatōhea are part of a collective with Iwi, MBIE, Kainga Ora, Ōpōtiki College, Ministry for Social Development (MSD), BITCO, ODC, and FA to develop opportunities and capacity in the Ōpōtiki community. Through this collective action, FA has funded a Level 3 construction training program to, nine, Year 13 students, 5 days a week to build 2 houses. The houses will be sold back to Kainga Ora, to assist with the Ōpōtiki housing shortage. Students will move onto completing a building apprenticeship when they are done with the FA program. MSD is also funding a similar training course for young people not engaged in education, training or employment and to community members who may be interested in retraining in construction.

· Ngāti Awa are also part of a collective of Iwi, MBIE, Ministry for Social Development (MSD), WDC, FA and the local boat builder Extreme Boats to create a marina and related training centre (also originally funded by the Provincial Growth Fund). Through this collaboration, Ngati Awa & FA have offered two Level 2 boat building related courses, to 15 students, that pathway students into the growing boat building industry. Students were offered work experience as part of their training and will be considered for a further apprenticeship at Extreme Boats. Two students have already been employed by Extreme Boats through this pilot programme.

In 2023 FA hopes to further collaborate with local Iwi, MBIE, MoE, and some regional high schools/ kura to pilot Mahi Whakamana (an empowering employment pilot) with the aim to assist local schools to increase the trades training available that pathway directly to their local region's workforce needs (please see framework below).

Below are links to related Futures Academy information:

· Futures Academy 2023 Booklet

· Futures Academy FaceBook page

· Futures Academy – Website

· Mahi Whakamana Pilot Framework

1.2 Ngāti Rangitihi Treaty Settlement/Tarawera Restoration Group

Presenter: Leith Comer (Chairperson Te Mana o Ngāti Rangitihi), Anthony Olsen (General Manager Te Mana o Ngāti Rangitihi) and Tiipene Marr (Trustee Te Mana o Ngāti Rangitihi)

Ngāti Rangitihi representatives will speak about the recent Ngāti Rangitihi Treaty Settlement which provides for the establishment of the Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group. The Group will support, coordinate and promote the integrated restoration of the mauri/wellbeing of the Tarawera River catchment.

As a co-governance entity, the Group will have equal iwi and council membership with eight members appointed from Ngāti Rangitihi, Ngāti Awa, Ngāti Mākino, Ngāti Tūwharetoa (Bay of Plenty), Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Kawerau District Council, Rotorua Lakes District Council, and Whakatāne District Council.

1.3 Research into Sea Level Rise and Risks to Marae

Presenter: Akuhata Bailey-Winiata (PhD Masters Thesis – He Toka Tū Moana Scholarship Recipient)

Akuhata Bailey-Winiata is a scientist with whakapapa to Te Arawa, Tūhoe and Tūwharetoa. Akuhata’s MSc investigated the potential exposure of coastal marae and urupā to the impacts of sea level rise and infrastructure around Aotearoa. His PhD will aim to weave Mātauranga Māori and western science research and ideas to understand how Māori can adapt to the hazards of sea level rise.

His PhD, at the University of Waikato and funded through the Resilience to Nature's Challenges, looks to co-develop with coastal Māori communities a managed retreat process to combat sea level rise.

1.4 Maketū Climate Change Adaptation Plan

Presenter: Roana Bennett, Jimmy O’Callaghan

With the challenges posed by climate change, a collective of Iwi have worked collaboratively to undertake a series of wānanga led by iwi, incorporating the whole community, to develop a Climate Change Adaptation Plan for Maketu.

The roopū involved in leading this initiative are:

• Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whakaue ki Maketū: the mandated iwi authority for Ngāti Whakaue ki Maketū, providing services and advocacy for the people and the environment.

• Whakaue Marae Trustees: provide the tikanga and governance for Whakaue Marae which sits on the edge of the Maketū estuary and is the source of manaakitanga and māramatanga for all who live in and around Maketū.

• Ngāti Pikiao Noho ki Tai: the coastal sub-committee of the Ngāti Pikiao Environmental Society who attend to Ngāti Pikiao environmental issues at the Coast. The Ngāti Pikiao Environmental Society is the mandated Ngāti Pikiao roopū dealing with Pikiao Environmental issues.

Integral to the Maketū Climate Change Adaptation Plan is the understanding that people and environment are inextricably linked: “Ka ora te taiao, ka ora te tangata”.

The plan itself is broad, and ranges from high level strategic objectives to specific on-the-ground actions at whānau and community level. Tying it all together is the absolute commitment to restoring the taiao, to protecting the people and native species of Maketū, and to influencing government and business to do everything possible to reduce the impacts of climate change and to accelerate the transition to a carbon free economy.

1.5 Perspectives on Climate Change and Māori Economy

Presenter: Chris Karamea Insley – Te Whānau a Apanui, Ngāti Porou

Chris is the CEO of Te Arawa Fisheries, with extensive training and education from leading New Zealand and international business schools and more than 30 years of experience working with Indigenous groups, government agencies and international investors in a variety of roles in New Zealand around the world. His life-long focus has been to help Maori and Indigenous groups achieve long-term social and environmental well-being through better investment in and development of their natural assets. He is passionate about helping communities shape their sustainable, long term development plans and is a champion for growing whanau and rangatahi using commerce and trade as the vehicle to achieving this.

1.6 SmartGrowth – Combined Tangata Whenua Forum

Presenter: Elva Conroy – Tapuika, Tūhourangi

Elva has nearly 20 years’ experience in resource management planning, policy analysis and community engagement. She specialises in cultural frameworks and natural resource planning and has won numerous NZ Planning Institute Awards for iwi management plan development. Elva is one of two Tū Pakari advisers to the SmartGrowth Combined Tāngata Whenua Forum (CTWF) providing technical planning expertise.

2. Kaupapa Tuarua: Māori Partnerships Work Programme

Our Partnerships with Māori Impact Statement sets a road map for how we will progress towards transforming our responsiveness to Māori, creating structures and mechanisms for partnership and shared decision-making over matters that are important to Māori. Building capacity and capability, both internally and externally, features in our planning to support the success of the Objectives and the Transformational shifts.

In April this year, Komiti Māori approved the Partnership with Māori Action Plan 2021 -2023. The Action Plan itself is a consolidation of the Impact Statement and action being undertaken to deliver on the impact statement objectives.

In the three months since, the focus of the programme has been on confirmation of scope and resourcing for each of the projects.

The attached appendix 1 is the progress report provides a snapshot of progress against each of the action areas.

2.1 Key Achievements

2.1.1 3^rd Generation Hapū/Iwi Management Plans

This has been identified as priority project under our programme. Several internal workshops have been held and feedback received from tangata whenua via council engagement has been collated to form the project scope. A project team has been established to lead this work.

We are also working collaboratively with Western Bay and TCC to pilot a streamlined approach that will encompass the upcoming reforms.

2.1.2 Internal Capability

He Korowai Mātauranga - Muka 1 provides the framework for building our internal capability here at Toi Moana and is led by the Organisational Development team and delivered in collaboration with other key roles and teams across Toi Moana.

There are three fibres or focus areas under this programme titled “He Hurahi Ki Te Ao Māori”:

1. ‘He Waka Eke Noa’ - Toitū te reo, the fibre of language: This fibre supports staff to understand Te Ao Māori through the vehicle of te reo Māori and waiata.

2. ‘He Tūāpapa’- Toitū te whenua, the fibre of land: This fibre is focused on the development of internal knowledge of Mana whenua, Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Mātauranga Māori.

3. ‘He Rourou Iti’ - Toutū te tangata, the fibre of people “: This fibre is focused on working across the organisation to help bring kaupapa Māori together from an organisational perspective.

A significant amount of work has been delivered in the past year with more planned for the coming year. An example of this work includes the delivery of ‘He Waka Eke Noa’ over the last two years, with over 300 staff participating over the four 8-week terms. Another example is the recent celebrations for Matariki with over 150 staff joining in the two weeks of celebrations, which included karakia, learning to prepare kai, star gazing, guest speakers and more.

Te Pae Rangatira – Our Leadership Model - provides the framework for creating clarity on great leadership and growing our internal leadership capability. Te Ao Māori is woven throughout this leadership model, with specific recognition and commitment to ensure we represent Māori culture, language and mātauranga (Māori knowledge) within the new leadership programmes, this will include:

• Providing an opportunity for participants to share their pepeha/mihi during workshops and within peer learning groups.

• Reflecting on and aligning with the Maramataka and its connection with energy and leadership.

• Opening and closing all group sessions with a karakia and offering karakia before meals events, whenever appropriate.

• Sharing the responsibility of karakia with all participants.

3. Kōhī Marae OSET Project Update

Here is an update on Kōhī Marae OSET project:

• Funding for the project has been approved for the next 2 years through the 2022/23 Annual Plan process.

• In addition to the 65 marae that were originally determined to meet the criteria for the project (i.e. not consented or reticulated to a municipal system), several other marae have contacted us about being included due to their consented systems failing them.

• In seeking to expand the project to other areas, a letter and factsheet was sent out to all remaining iwi with marae in the Kōhī district, introducing the project and gauging further interest.

• An external facing webpage has now been established as a central tool for information: https://www.boprc.govt.nz/our-projects/marae-wastewater

• Ngāti Whare (Minginui / Te Whāiti) have recently expressed an interest in the project and requested all their marae be assessed.

• One marae we have been working with has now progressed from assessment, to design and consenting. Additionally they have also secured Oranga Marae funding (via Te Puni Kokiri) for upgrade of whole system, to be completed within the next few months.

4. Kaupapa Tuatoru: Ngāti Tara Tokanui Settlement

The Crown and Ngāti Tara Tokanui signed a Deed of Settlement on 29 July 2022. This follows the initialling of the draft Deed in June 2017 and subsequent ratification by iwi members since that time. The Deed will be given effect through legislation, within an anticipated timeframe of 6-12 months.

The settlement includes a financial redress package, and the return of nine sites of cultural significance. Ngāti Tara Tokanui are located around Paeroa, but with an area of interest that extends into the western Bay of Plenty, and are also one of twelve iwi of the Hauraki collective.

Note that Hauraki Collective claims /interests in respect of Te Awanui | Tauranga Moana Harbour remain ongoing, to be separately addressed at a later stage.

5. Kaupapa Tuatoru: Changing Operating Environment

This section provides a short update on current matters, policy proposals and reforms of potential interest or implication, within the broader Māori operating environment.

5.1 Wai 2358 - The National Freshwater and Geothermal Resources Inquiry

This inquiry addresses Māori proprietary rights in freshwater bodies and geothermal resources. The inquiry was divided into stages, allowing for the most urgent part of the inquiry to be heard first – Stage 1 (2012), Māori rights and interests in fresh water and the potential impact of the imminent sale of shares in one of the four state-owned power companies. Stage 2 (2015) the Crown’s freshwater management regime and its reforms. Stage 3 (ongoing) Māori rights and interests in geothermal resources.

The Tribunal convened an urgent hearing this week (1-3 August) on the proposed selection process for Māori representatives on regional planning committees under the proposed Natural and Built Environments Act and its consistency with Te Tiriti and its principles. The hearing involved a number of national Māori representative entities including NZ Māori Council and Iwi Leaders Group.

Its anticipated the Tribunal will report its findings within the current quarter. The remainder of substantive Wai 2358 Inquiry matters remain ongoing.

5.2 Ministerial Advisory Board on upholding Treaty Settlements

A new Ministerial Advisory Board has been established to ensure existing Treaty settlements are upheld under the new resource management system / reforms.

The Board will play an important role in that process, helping identify and address emerging themes, issues or challenges as the Government moves to replace the Resource Management Act with the Natural and Built Environments Act, the Spatial Planning Act and the Climate Adaptation Act.

The Board members have been selected for their expertise in Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and understanding of resource management and its importance for Māori:

· Karen Vercoe (MNZM), Te Arawa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa, Ngāti Kahungunu, Ngāti Raukawa

· Lisa Tumahai, Ngāi Tahu, Tainui

· Andrew (Anaru) Luke, Ngāti Rārua, Ngāti Toa Rangatira, Rangitāne ki Wairau, Te Ātiawa, Ngāti Maniapoto/Kinohaku

· Maui Solomon, Moriori, Ngāi Tahu.

The Board will not advise on individual Treaty settlements or speak on behalf of post-settlement governance entities and will continue to work directly with iwi chairs.

5.3 Emissions Trading Scheme

The Government announced (28 July) it is unlikely to proceed with its earlier proposal to exclude exotic species (e.g., pine) from the permanent forestry category of the ETS from January 2023.

This proposal would have limited eligibility to earn and sell carbon units earned via those forests, as part of the ETS and was subsequently met with strong opposition from the industry, the rural sector, landowners and Māori.

The Government will instead continue to work with technical experts, stakeholders and Māori towards achieving its Climate Change objectives, and the role of permanent forests in relation to this.

5.4 Conservation Management and Process Bill

The Department of Conservation is currently seeking to improve conservation management planning and concessions. As part of this, the Conservation Management and Processes (CMAP) Bill is focused on making practical targeted amendments to make the tools within the conservation planning framework more user-friendly for everyone.

The proposals focused on three key areas:

• The development and review of processes for conservation management planning documents;

• Improving efficiency and enable more proactive approaches to concessions management; and

• Minor and technical changes for the purposes of regulatory stewardship.

Toi Moana recognises shared priorities with Te Papa Atawhai which include seeing hapū/iwi thrive in the region and supporting the effective implementation of Treaty settlements.

Submissions closed 30 June 2022. BOPRC provided feedback on the Bill.

5.5 Te Maruata and Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) Conference

LGNZ and Te Maruata held their annual conference from 19-22 July 2022 at Papaioea (Palmerston North). Te Maruata (Māori sub-committee of LGNZ) Chairperson Councillor Bonita Bingham was well attended by many existing Māori staff and Councillors including those intending to stand in the forthcoming local body elections, several of whom are standing for Mayor in their respective rohe. The recent changes in legislation will see 32 Māori wards resulting in approximately 59 Māori Councillors out of a total of 520 elected members across the motu.

Te Maruata is developing Te Ahuru Mowai, a tuakana-teina mentoring framework to support new Māori Councillors. Te Maruata is also assisting LGNZ to develop a Māori Strategy to ensure that Te Ao Māori is embedded throughout the workings and business of LGNZ.

6. Ngā Pānga ki te Māori

Implications for Māori

The items presented in this report cover a range of initiatives, which have a positive impact on Māori. The co-design of strategies with tangata whenua groups to align processes with mātauranga have provided impetus on co-partnering and building relationships with tangata whenua and further promoting Te Mana o Te Taiao.

Internal efforts by Council to enable tangata whenua to lead in spaces such as the Māori Partnerships Work Programme and in the Changing Operating Environment for example: the National Policy Statement for Indigenous Biodiversity, the National Adaption Plan and the Conservation Management and Processes (CMAP) Bill.

The implications for Māori can only be positive where Council recognises opportunities to enhance Māori capability through co-design of strategy and Iwi led planning that can enhance and build partnerships. These partnerships have benefits to Māori and the wider community.

7. Ngā Pānga a-Pūtea

Financial Implications

There are no unbudgeted financial implications within the current financial year.

8. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake

Next Steps

As an omnibus report of independent matters and other kaupapa led through respective areas of Council operations, no specific action is recommended via this report.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Partnerships with Māori Programme Status Report - Aug 2022 ⇩



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Komiti Māori
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	16 August 2022
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Herewini Simpson, Kaihautu - Te Amorangi Lead and Sandy Hohepa, Maori Policy Advisor
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Kataraina O'Brien, Director, Strategic Engagement
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To highlight Komiti Māori achievements over the last triennium.

Komiti Māori Highlights from Dec 2019 to Aug 2022

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

Established in 2006, Komiti Māori provides a valuable interface between Tangata Whenua and Council, a feature for which Toi Moana | BOPRC is recognised as an industry leader.

Through its ability to facilitate a Māori perspective, Komiti Māori plays a significant role in advocating kaupapa Māori across Council decision making and other key areas including the Long-Term Plan (LTP) and Annual Plan. Uniquely it is the first kaupapa Māori orientated committee of a regional council in New Zealand, comprised of all Councillors

Komiti Māori provides operational direction for Council’s legislative obligations to Māori and their implementation. Key functions of its role include:

• Providing leadership to Council on enhancing the kaupapa of shared decision-making with Māori across all aspects of Council’s work

• Approving actions to enhance Māori capacity to contribute to decision-making processes.

• Recommending effective Māori engagement consultation processes and mechanisms.

• Identifying relevant emerging issues relating to the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi, legislative obligations to Māori and programmes to build the capacity of Māori.

This report provides a snapshot of key decisions and actions given effect through Komiti Māori, and associated outcomes from December 2019 to August 2022.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Komiti Māori Highlights from Dec 2019 to Aug 2022.

1. Kupu Whakataki
Introduction

Toi Moana | Bay of Plenty Regional Council, was the first council in the country to establish dedicated Māori constituencies and continues to be recognised as an industry leader in council-iwi relations.

In continuing that leadership, Komiti Māori was established in November 2006 with a key function of guiding and monitoring Council’s legislative obligations to Māori.

Currently in its 5^th triennium, Komiti Māori provides a positive interface between the Māori constituent councillors, full council, iwi, hapū and tangata whenua generally across the region.

Komiti Māori plays an important role in facilitating the voice of tangata whenua and ensures better informed decision-making through the provisions of strategic and cultural advice to councillors and staff.

Similarly, Māori councillors through their enduring relationships with hapū, iwi and Māori constituents, bring to the table a strategic and unique kaupapa Māori lens which continues to influence positive change.

This report provides a snapshot of key decisions and actions given effect through Komiti Māori, and associated outcomes from December 2019 to August 2022.

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

The Way We Work

We look to partnerships for best outcomes.

2. Komiti Māori

For the current 2019-2022 triennium Komiti Māori initially comprised three Māori and five general constituent councillors, namely: Matemoana McDonald (Chair), Toi Iti, Te Taru White, Stacey Rose, Paula Thompson, Lyall Thurston, Bill Clark and Chairman Doug Leeder as ex-officio.

In 2021 Komiti Māori membership was expanded to include all 14 councillors, to facilitate increased opportunity for all councillors to engage with tangata whenua directly, through the work of and involvement in Komiti Māori.

Illustration 1 : Komiti Māori membership as at 2019 and post 2021 expansion

2.1 Purpose and functions

As per its Terms of Reference, the key function of Komiti Māori is to provide direction and guidance on Council’s obligations to Māori in relation to growth of authentic partnerships with tangata whenua, effective engagement, awareness and understanding.

Komiti Māori also plays a role in identifying and providing direction on any relevant emerging issues for the region relating to the principles of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi, legislative obligations to Māori under different statutes and programmes to build the capability of Māori.

The content of this report provides a snapshot of how Council gives effect to the Terms of Reference through recommendations, endorsement and decisions.

2.1 Amendments to the Terms of Reference

On 1^st April 2021, Council unanimously approved a change to Komiti Māori Terms of Reference, in line with its “Partnerships with Māori” strategic priority.

Pursuant to that change, matters of partnership and shared decision-making with Māori, became a key focus area led by Komiti Māori. Komiti Māori also operates to provide a strategic lens across Council to identify and progress shared decision-making opportunities and have a leadership mandate to influence the landscape of other committees.

As abovementioned, Komiti Māori also became a Committee of the Whole at this time, with meetings alternating between Marae and Council Chambers.

2.2 Komiti Māori Hui

A unique feature of Komiti Māori is the location of its meetings held at various Marae across the region, which enables members to engage directly with tangata whenua at a localised level.

The kanohi ki te kanohi (face to face) approach is a culturally recognised and effective way of interacting with tangata whenua. It also enables tangata whenua to actively engage in council decision making processes, a key rationale behind holding Komiti Māori hui within a Marae environment. In this way Komiti Māori actively demonstrates Council’s commitment to building enduring relationships with Māori. Consistent with the uniqueness of this arrangement, committee standing orders are flexible to respect Marae protocols and encourage public interaction and participation.

On an individual level for Councillors and other participants, Komiti Māori marae-based approach provides an excellent platform to build cultural understanding though direct exposure and involvement in Te Ao Māori, Tikanga and Te Reo.

As a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Komiti Māori hui shifted online during that time, although as Covid measures have eased, a hybrid model has been adopted.

Despite these changes, Komiti Māori has continued to attract regular presentations, attendance and involvement from tangata whenua, who have readily adapted to the online format. Similarly with online meetings being recorded, Live Streamed and made available for later viewing, Komiti Māori continues to remain accessible to its community.

3. Presentations to Komiti Māori

Komiti Māori provides a valuable platform for mutual exchange and understanding between council and tangata whenua, whereby tangata whenua are invited to present on important kaupapa at each hui (41 presentations from tangata whenua for the current triennium).

Through these presentations Council is able to gain greater insight to initiatives and led by tangata whenua, and in many cases identify potential opportunity for Council support through its functions and operations, particularly where there is alignment with our Community Outcomes. Example of matters presented at Komiti Māori and subsequent actions or involvement by Council include:

• Improve resource consent processes and support Council partnerships.

• Māori Wardens in CDEM management programme.

• Funding to support compost toilet and cycle track.

• Raukūmara Pae Maunga project.

• Jobs for Nature and Climate Resilience.

• Ngāpuna Air Quality and contaminated site.

The two graphs below show the connectiveness of the Toi Moana Community Outcomes and how the topics of tangata whenua presentations link together. One graph is showing the percentage of whenua presentations that align to our Community Outcomes and the second graph shows the percentage of Toi Moana tangata whenua presentations that are split into our constituent areas of Mauao, Ōkurei and Kōhī.

Figure 1:

Shows tangata whenua presentations aligned to Toi Moana community outcomes and split into Constituent areas.

The diagram below shows the different types of topics that tangata whenua presenters spoke about when presenting at Komiti Māori.

Illustration 2: Topics tangata whenua presented to Komiti Māori

4. Keynote Guest Speakers

4.1 Hon Nanaia Mahuta (Minister)

Komiti Māori were privileged to have had in attendance the Hon Nanaia Mahuta, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Local Government and Associate Minister for Māori Development. The Minister provided a keynote address on her perspectives regarding local and central government partnerships with Māori. Key points captured were:

· Aotearoa New Zealand was at a critical juncture of resolving past Treaty issues, looking forward to the future and willingness with society to move towards partnerships in the tenants of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

· Central government could create some conditions in partnerships with local government to ensure communities flourished by enabling co-design of outcomes and applying a Treaty based approach in a practical way to achieve broader environment, economic, social and cultural wellbeing outcomes.

· Major investments in infrastructure with Three Waters reform to lift partnerships and long-term aspirations of Iwi Māori on the health of water-ways and underpin economic opportunity and growth in the regions and smaller communities in a coherent way.

4.2 Justice Layne Harvey (High Court Judge)

Komiti Māori also had the privilege of participating in a virtual Treaty of Waitangi Training session with Justice Harvey, who provided a legal perspective on the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and its principles as a foundation for modern NZ, including the following:

· The Declaration of Independence

· The Case Law 1947-1987

· The Treaty of Waitangi Act 1975 and the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi

· The 1987 Lands Case

· The role of PSGEs and their relationship with Hapū

· The Coastal Marine Title Act 2011

5. Key Achievements for Komiti Māori

The following are examples of where and/or how Komiti Māori has led initiatives, influenced or supported decisions in alignment with its purpose and functions of leading Council on strategic kaupapa Māori.

5.1 Komiti Māori Led Initiatives

5.1.1 Partnerships with Māori Impact Statement & Action Plan

Komiti Māori has been instrumental in leading the development and endorsement of Councils Māori Partnership Impact Statement, as one of 3 key priority areas for Council. Alongside that impact statement Komiti Māori has provided guidance on the development and endorsement of the corresponding ‘Māori Partnership Action Plan and associated work programme’. Māori Partnerships is one of Council’s strategic priorities. Council amended the Terms of Reference for Komiti Māori to provide a framework in which partnerships and shared decision-making are a key focus. In addition, support for this was endorsed via Councils Long Term Plan.

Māori Partnerships Action Plan 2021-23 sets out the actions that support the vision, objectives and transformational shifts contained within Councils Māori Partnerships Impact Statement. This action plan aligns with Councils other two impact statements: Climate Change and Community Participation and Constructive Relationships.

5.1.2 National Māori Flag

Councils’ commitment to fly the National Māori flag (initially on significant occasions and subsequently daily), was a direct initiative of Komiti Māori. Daily flying of the flag alongside the New Zealand flag and our Regional Council banner, provides regional acknowledgement of our relationship with tangata whenua/hapū/Iwi and recognition of Treaty partnerships in the Bay of Plenty. The flag is symbolic of Councils strategic priority of enhancing partnerships with Māori for the collective benefit of our region.

5.1.3 He Toka Tu Moana Environmental Scholarship

The genesis of the He Toka Tu Moana Environmental Scholarship came directly from the support of Komiti Māori in remembrance of the late Awanuiarangi Black. Within the last triennium we have distributed $30k (10k per annum) to 23 tertiary student recipients where their environmental studies contribute and link to our community outcomes.

5.1.4 Hapū/Iwi Management Plans

Komiti Māori has played an instrumental role in leading Councils existing approach to the development of Hapū/Iwi Management (HIMP) plans. This includes Komiti Māori continued support for targeted HIMP funding each year (approximately $70k) and formal endorsement / acceptance of HIMP via Komiti Māori hui. The plans inform Council decision-making and assist Council to identify tangata whenua areas of interest, resource management issues and preferred methods of engagement.

5.1.5 Komiti Māori ePanui

Komiti Māori ePanui (newsletter) shares what Komiti Māori and Councils are doing around the rohe that is relevant to Iwi, Hapū and Marae. The panui has a distribution list of around 500 people which is sent out quarterly per year prior to a scheduled Komiti Māori meeting. The ePanui is full of exciting information and agenda items relevant to the current scheduled meeting, and current news of interest for tangata whenua. The ePanui is distributed free via email, not just within the region but all over Aotearoa. It is a practical tool to keep the Māori community informed of what is happening within Toi Moana and its local areas.

5.1.6 Komiti Māori Workshops

Komiti Māori have led several workshops for Councillors to discuss, inform, engage and provide direction and decisions on Kaupapa Māori including:

• Partnerships with Māori Action Plan.

• Māori Freehold Land Rates Remissions.

• Te Hononga - Māori Freshwater Engagement Strategy

• Treaty of Waitangi Training session presented by Justice Layne Harvey.

5.2 Komiti Māori Influenced / Supported Initiatives

Through its ability to facilitate a Māori perspective, Komiti Māori plays a significant role in advocating kaupapa Māori across Council decision making and other key areas including the Long-Term Plan (LTP) and Annual Plan. The following are examples of existing operations, that have benefited through Komiti Māori influence and support.

5.2.1 He Korowai Mātauranga (HKM)

Emerging from a Kōmiti Māori recommendation and approved by Council through the 2015-2025 Long Term Plan, He Korowai Mātauranga (internal Mātauranga Māori framework) was informed by kaupapa Māori based research including interviews with mātauranga Māori practitioners throughout Aotearoa.

He Whataunga Muka - HKM Action Plan

He Whataunga Muka outlines a number of actions to give effect to He Korowai Mātauranga. Komiti Māori supported its implementation which aimed to build internal capability to appreciate, receive and respect Mātauranga Māori. The establishment of the Putaiao Mātauranga (Mātauranga Māori Scientist) role within the Science Team was supported by Komiti Māori.

5.2.2 Te Hononga

The development of Councils regional Māori Freshwater engagement strategy - Te Hononga, was an initiative supported by Komiti Māori, having recognised the complexity of the NPSFM-2020 and the need for a targeted engagement approach. Te Hononga is focussed on building relationships with Māori and recognises iwi and hapū across the region have different interests, different levels of readiness, and varying ranges of capacity and capability to participate in planning processes. Te Hononga is considered an exemplar for Māori engagement and has influenced the development of like strategies by several other councils.

5.2.3 RMA Hearing Commissioner certification

The Making Good Decisions Programme is the approved accreditation qualification for RMA hearings commissioners. Council has since 2012, continued to sponsor and support three tangata whenua delegates annually, to complete the training and certification and increase the pool of qualified Māori Hearing Commissioners.

5.2.4 Resource Management Training for Māori

Councils targeted RMA training for tangata whenua is a long-running initiative that seeks to build capacity, capability, knowledge and confidence to understand and navigate the RMA.

5.2.5 Te Hapai Ora – Regional Community Outcomes Fund

Te Hapai Ora – Regional Community Outcomes Fund, provides funding to support community projects/purposes/events, that positively contribute to our regional community outcomes. Grants of up to $2k per application are available, from a total annual pool of $30k. Successful applications regularly include a variety of kaupapa Māori including – maara kai (community garden), putaiao (Regional Science & Tech. Fair) and Regional Iwi cultural events. A report on 2022 funding was recently provided to Komiti Māori, which has supported in principle a review and potential increase to funding at the next LTP.

5.2.6 Summer Experience Programme

Each year Council employs 32 students across 12 weeks (approximately 100 students over the last triennium) as part of its summer experience programme. Students undertake work in alignment with our community outcomes, with many having a dedicated focus on kaupapa Māori. Komiti Māori maintains a particular interest in Māori students each year, as contributors to the future capacity/capability of their hapū/iwi.

5.2.7 Treaty of Waitangi Settlements

The completion of each Treaty settlement marks a significant milestone for the iwi concerned, and more broadly, the wider region as well. Treaty settlements have produced a number of new arrangements to bolster the role of Māori in local leadership, as drivers of strategic plans, iwi-lead initiatives and economic development opportunities across the region. As we move further into the post-Treaty settlement era, it is expected this trend will continue. Treaty Settlement updates are regularly provided to Council via Komiti Māori

5.2.8 Te Hononga o Ngā Mātauranga – Science Plan

Komiti Māori supported the implementation of Te Hononga o Ngā Mātauranga - Science Plan as an extension of He Korowai Mātauranga Framework. The Science Plan is a tool to help guide Council in providing high quality science (data, information, knowledge) to support key regional council processes ensuring decisions are based on reliable and up-to-date science, including mātauranga Māori.

5.2.9 Te Kura Huna – Groundwater Video (The Hidden Treasure)

Komiti Māori supported the development of this video resource, raising awareness about groundwater, aquifers and the hydrological cycle. The video explores how Council and the community contribute to the management of groundwater, highlighting the hydrological cycle from a western science perspective and mātauranga Māori world view.

5.2.10 Komiti Māori Communications and Engagement Plan

In 2020 Komiti Māori initiated a dedicated Communication and Engagement Plan to implement different communication strategies and tools to support tangata whenua The plan aims to enhance opportunities to engage with Māori (hapū, iwi, tangata whenua), increase participation and/or interest in Komiti Māori meetings and enable an appropriate space in which Māori can provide their views and input into Council business.

6. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

Komiti Māori provides tangata whenua the opportunity to participate and contribute to matters which inform Council’s decision making. The unique manner in which most Komiti Māori hui are conducted on marae throughout the rohe also provide Councillors and staff with an immersive experience and audience with Māori which they may not otherwise have access to.

Komiti Māori has continued to build capability and capacity to enable tangata whenua to respond appropriately when making decisions around kaupapa Māori. Its terms of reference empower the committee to make relevant recommendations to ensure council’s compliance and responsiveness to Māori is at the forefront. Potential expansion of its areas of influence and decision-making will ensure Komiti Māori continues to adapt and flourish into the future, as it has done over the last triennium.

6.1 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

Climate Change, along with Community Participation and Partnerships with Māori are key focus areas for Council, each of which has a tailored action plan to deliver on implementation.

6.2 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Through Komiti Māori, Council is able to contribute to processes, which enable Māori to participate and contribute to matters which inform Council’s decision making. Komiti Māori actively seeks ways in which it can assist Council and staff to meet legislative responsibilities such as requesting robust engagement processes that are support tikanga and Te Reo Māori.

The items presented in this report cover a range of initiatives, which have a positive impact on Māori. The co-design of strategies with tangata whenua groups to align processes and planning with Mātauranga have provided impetus on co-partnering and building relationships with tangata whenua and further promoting Te Mana o Te Taiao.

Interaction between Māori and councillors and active participation of Māori in council decision making is the key rationale behind holding Komiti Māori hui within a Marae environment. This is an active demonstration of Council’s commitment to building enduring relationships with Māori.

The implications for Māori can only be positive where Council recognises opportunities to enhance Māori capability through Iwi led planning that can enhance and build partnerships. These partnerships have benefits to Māori and the wider community.

6.3 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

Engagement with the community is not required as this is an information only report.

6.4 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

7. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

This is the last scheduled meeting in 2022 for Komiti Māori. Following Local Government elections in October, elected members will consider and decide on the future committees of Toi Moana for the new triennium.

Chairperson
Notwithstanding the Komiti Māori has an appointed Chairperson, Māori Constituency Councillors may host-Chair committee meetings that are held in the rohe of their respective constituency	Cr Matemoana McDonald
Deputy Chairperson	Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti
Members	All Councillors
Quorum	Seven members, consisting of half the number of members
Meeting frequency	Two monthly