Council

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Accepts the apologies from Cr Bruning and Cr Rose (early departure) tendered at the meeting.

Leeder/White

CARRIED

4.1

Dairy NZ - He Waka Eke Noa Programme

Presentation Dairy NZ HWEN 11 August 2022: Objective ID A4174551   

Presented by: Dairy NZ Lead Advisor - Solutions and Development, Nick Tait and Principal Policy Advisor, Roger Lincoln.

Key Points – Presentation:

·    He Waka Eke Noa (Primary Sector Climate Action Partnership) was a world-first collaboration between government, the primary sector and Māori agribusiness to create a plan that would reduce agricultural emissions while enabling sustainable food and fibre production for future generations and competitiveness in international markets

·    Developed a practical framework to support farmers to measure, manage and reduce agricultural emissions; recognise, maintain, or increase integrated sequestration on farms and adapt to a changing climate

·    Recommended a practical, credible, and effective farm-level pricing system

·    Summary of key He Waka Eke Noa recommendations were provided to Ministers of the Crown (recommendations were informed by consultation/supported by technical information)

·    Recommended that the Government introduce a farm-level split-gas levy on agricultural emissions with built-in incentives to reduce emissions and sequester carbon

·    As the next step, Government would consider the Partnership’s advice alongside advice from the Climate Change Commission, before making decisions later this year on how agricultural emissions were to be priced from 2025.

Key Points - Members:

·    Acknowledged that it was a complex science driven debate

·    Interface with regional councils as regulators was critical

·    Emphasised the importance of continued engagement across communities/ongoing communications.

Next Steps:

·    Continued conversation as the programme developed

·    Dairy NZ provided further information with regard to Farm Case Studies and price implications available on their website: FINAL-He-Waka-Eke-Noa-Recommendations-Report.pdf (hewakaekenoa.nz)

6.1

Regional Council Minutes - 23 June 2022

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Confirms the Regional Council Minutes - 23 June 2022 as a true and correct record, subject to the following amendment:

·       Page 16 , item 7.3: fourth bullet: the typographical error “0.9%” to be corrected to “5.9%”.

Love/von Dadelszen

CARRIED

7.1

Chairperson's Report

Key Points:

·    Elaborated on the itinerary of the Regional Sector Tour in Palmerston North 18 – 20 July 2022; key places of interest visited/discussion points addressed: Taupō-nui-a-tia, Tūwharetoa Māori Trust Board, Tongariro Power Scheme, Whanganui River claims Settlement Te Awa Tupua and locations that highlighted the importance of green hydrogen, primary industries, tourism and rail to regional prosperity

·    Written summary of the itinerary of the Regional Sector Tour in Palmerston North 18 – 20 July 2022 to be provided to Councillors.

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Chairperson's Report.

Leeder/Thurston

CARRIED

7.2

Recommendations from Public Transport Committee

Presented by: Lorraine Cheyne - Transport & Urban Planning Manager.

Key Point - Staff:

·    Staff would continue to work with New Zealand Transport Agency and Waikato Regional Council staff to determine if there was a possibility of a co-funding arrangement being reached.

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Recommendations from Public Transport Committee.

2        Adopts the recommendations from the Public Transport Committee meeting held on 23 June 2022 specific to the report, Contract Renewal of 85 Connector Bus Service to:

(a) Endorse the continuation of Waihi Beach passenger transport service as a permanent two day a week service for a further 12 months; and

(b) Notes that associated funding has been included in the 2022-2023 Annual Plan.

Thompson/Thurston

CARRIED

7.3

Recommendations from Bay of Plenty Regional Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Subcommittee

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Recommendations from Bay of Plenty Regional Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Subcommittee;

2        Approves changing and adopting the Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Subcommittee as a committee of Council and for the purpose of intent retrospectively applies all previous references to ‘subcommittee’ to mean ‘committee’.

3        Notes that Councillor Toi Iti was voted as Deputy Chair for the Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Committee;

4        Adopts the recommendations from the Bay of Plenty Regional Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Committee meeting held on 26 July 2022 specific to the report, Terms of Reference for the Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Committee to:

(a)  Recommends to Regional Council, adoption of the final Navigation Safety Bylaws Committee Terms of Reference.

Thompson/Crosby

CARRIED

7.4

Local Government Funding Agency Statement of Intent

Presentation LGFA Mark Butcher 11 August 2022: Objective ID A4177580   

Presented by: Mark Butcher Chief Executive, Local Government Funding Agency (LGFA), supported by Kumaren Perumal – Chief Financial Officer and Mark Le Comte – Principal Advisor Finance.

Key Points - Presentation:

·    Recent developments for the period 2021 – 2022

·    LGFA Historic Financial Ratios

·    LGFA Financial Statements for the period 6 Months to December 2021

·    Performance targets

·    Future Director Programme

·    Approach to sustainability

·    Lending Framework – borrowing categories

·    Three Waters Reforms - LGFA committed to assisting Central Government and councils with Three Waters Reform Programme.

Key Points - Members:

·    Congratulated LGFA on their sustainability initiatives, particularly the objectives/measures included in the Statement of Intent (SOI).

10:35am - Cr Rose withdrew from the meeting.

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Local Government Funding Agency Statement of Intent.

2        Agrees that no formal feedback is required on the Local Government Funding-Agency Statement of Intent 2022-2025.

Winters/Nees

CARRIED

7.5

Bay of Plenty Local Authority Shared Services Statement of Intent

Presented by: Kumaren Perumal – Chief Financial Officer and Mark Le Comte – Principal Advisor Finance.

Key Points:

·    Provided a statement on behalf of Stephen Boyle, Chief Executive Bay of Plenty Local Authority Shared Services (BOPLASS) on the proposed Statement of Intent (SOI):

o Since Council’s consideration of the draft BOPLASS SOI in April 2022, the final proposed SOI had no material changes from the draft

o BOPLASS’s focus to remain on the improvement of procedures for procurement/other shared services initiatives, taking advantage of inter-regional collaboration to benefit on economies of scale

o BOPLASS to keep a watching brief on local government changes; workshops to follow in September 2022 to facilitate taking advantage of any collaborative/shared services initiates that might arise from imminent changes.

Key Points - Members:

·    Highlighted the abundance of opportunities available to BOPLASS to pursue; would be a function of the governance group of BOPLASS to provide further direction in this regard

·    Suggested BOPLASS reflect on the outcomes/changes effected by the recently rebranded Waikato LASS, now called Co-Lab

·    Would require a proactive attitude to embrace opportunities that future changes could bring.

Key Points - Staff:

·    In terms of climate change projects/opportunities, BOPLASS was currently considering projects relating to the improvement of waste management systems/processes/improving the efficiency of waste management

·    BOPLASS staff had recently been relocated to Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana’s Regional House to optimise/reduce costs

·    Update on progress with establishing the Regional Local Authority Shared Services: the Legal Team was currently considering the various shareholder agreements to ensure due diligence/compliance.  Once this process had been completed the relevant Statement of Intent would be provided to Council.

Item for Staff Follow Up:

·    Future report to Council on the initiatives/projects BOPLASS was considering regarding the improvement and efficiency of waste management systems and processes.

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Bay of Plenty Local Authority Shared Services Statement of Intent;

2        Agrees that no formal feedback is required on the BOPLASS Statement of Intent 2021-2024; and

3        Requests a presentation on the strategic direction of BOPLASS to be provided at the next Council meeting.

Leeder/Crosby

CARRIED

7.6

Quayside Group Statements of Intent

Cr Crosby and Cr White declared an interest in this item and abstained from voting.

Presented by: Kumaren Perumal – Chief Financial Officer and Mark Le Comte – Principal Advisor Finance.

Key Points - Members:

·    Acknowledged that the new approach followed in the Quayside Group  Statement of Intent (SOI) documents were more informative

·    Provided the following comments for consideration by staff/Quayside Group Directors:

o Explanations on the distribution policy was complex/hard to follow

o Requested clarification on the following statement as well as the practical implications thereof: “The value of the Port of Tauranga Shareholding is adjusted to normalise returns with the NZX50”

o Encouraged Quayside Group to consider the sustainability initiatives/objectives/measures included in the Local Government Funding Agency (LGFA) Statement of Intent (SOI)

·    Noted that in terms of governance responsibility/accountability regarding Statements of Intent, the requirement for Council was to receive Statements of Intent.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·    Advise Councillors of the total number of canopy hectares of kiwi fruit covered by the eight kiwi orchards

·    Advise Councillors of the size of the forestry block on Mystery Valley Road

·    Provide an information session with any Councillors interested in obtaining further information/clarification on the Quayside Group Statement of Intent (SOI) documents and provide practical scenarios as examples.

11:22am - Cr McDonald entered the meeting.

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1        Receives the report, Quayside Group Statements of Intent.

2        Agrees that no further formal feedback is required on the Quayside Group Statements of Intent.

Leeder/von Dadelszen

CARRIED

7.7

Summary of Elected Members' Expenditure July 2021 - June 2022

Tabled Document 1 - Summary of Elected Members Expenditure July 2021- June 2022 BOPRC Councillor Expenditure Updated: Objective ID A4175015   

Presented by: Yvonne Tatton, Governance Manager.

Key Points - Staff:

·    Saving of $52,000 travel expenses for the 2021/2022 year was due to COVID restrictions and the large number of meetings attended via Zoom while the Epidemic Preparedness (COVID-19) Notice 2020 Renewal Notice 2022 was in effect.

Key Points - Members:

·    Encouraged Elected Members to prioritise professional development in their governance role and seize opportunities available

·    Suggested that emphasis be placed on professional development opportunities during the induction process at the commencement of the new triennium.

Resolved

That the Regional Council:

1.     Receives the report, Summary of Elected Members' Expenditure July 2021 - June 2022.

Winters/Leeder

CARRIED

Resolved

Resolution to exclude the public

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

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

Leeder/Nees

CARRIED

Resolved

That Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority:

1        Accepts the apologies from Commissioner Shad Rolleston, Commissioner Bill Wasley and Erin Thompson (for absence), Deputy Mayor John Scrimgeour (for lateness) and Cr Tania Tapsell (for early departure from the meeting), tendered at the meeting.

Tapsell/Flavell

CARRIED

5.1

Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority Minutes - 25 February 2022

Resolved

That Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority:

1        Confirms the Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority Minutes - 25 February 2022 as a true and correct record.

Nees/McDonald

CARRIED

6.1

Pataka Kai Project Update

Presentation:    Pataka Kai Update: Objective ID A4101453   

Presented by:   Elva Conroy and Hemi O’Callaghan (Pataka Kai Project – Tapuika)

Key Points

·       The purpose of the project was to enhance habitats for kai awa, and to enable hapū and iwi to demonstrate, in a practical way, kaitiakitanga of ngā awa me ngā taonga of the Kaituna River.

·       Work completed to date included desktop research and the formation of a Working Group.

·       The focus for the next twelve months was to develop and implement a fisheries monitoring plan and connect whānau, hapū and iwi to the project.

·       The monitoring and management programmes would be line with the natural cycles of the tuna (eels), inanga (whitebait), kōura (crayfish), kākahi (freshwater mussels) and watercress.

·       Working collaboratively with Tapuika and Waitaha.

·       Looking at specific sites to take priority over the next year.  One area in particular was the Parawhenuamea Stream.

·       Invaluable advice and support had been received from Raponi Wilson (Department of Conservation) and Dr Kura Paul-Burke.

9.56am - Cr Tapsell withdrew from the meeting.

In Response to Questions

·       The Parawhenuamea Stream was only one of a half dozen options and was chosen as a starting point for the project because of the nature of the stream and the importance of it culturally.  What effect, if any, the old Te Puke landfill site had on the stream, was yet to be determined.

·       Connecting to other research programmes in the region had not happened to date, but would happen when the project was more established.

·       Delays with the Te Wai Māori contract had now been resolved.

Key Points - Members

·       Thanks were expressed for the excellent update and getting the project to this point.

·       The forum was reminded that Te Maru o Kaituna had a budget and funding from the budget could be made available to assist this project.  The forum would be included in any budget decisions.

·       It was suggested that the seven hectares of available land belonging to Tapuika and Whakaue just downstream of the Tauranga Eastern Link bridge across the Kaituna river, on the eastern side, would make a suitable area for a research station and would be a great place for learning.

7.1

Chairperson's Report - Verbal Update

Presented by: Chair Dean Flavell

Key Points

·       The Chair welcomed Jane Waldon who had been appointed to the newly formed Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority and Rangitāiki River Forum Co-governance Secretariat position.

·       AFFCO had advised that they were working through the issues raised at the first resource consent pre-hearing as well as working on draft conditions.  These would be presented and discussed with submitters at a second pre-hearing meeting to be held on 24 May 2022.

·       Regional Policy Statement (RPS) Change 5 (Kaituna River) hearing dates had been set for 11 – 13 October 2022.

·       Last week, NZ Landcare Trust had facilitated an online discussion for the North Island on building meaningful catchment partnerships and hearing from Māori-led catchment groups about their mahi and insights.  The Chair had been invited to sit on the panel for this discussion.

·       An invitation to attend the DairyNZ and TAML Farm Wetland Environment Field Day at Maketū on 26 May 2022 from 11am to 1pm was extended.

·       The work that Te Maru o Kaituna was doing would be promoted at the Te Kete o Matariki event at Te Puke on Thursday 23 June (education day with local schools), and Friday 24 June (community celebration day).

The following verbal updates were also provided

·       Mr Nick Chater – Lakes Community Board

-     Rotorua Zipline project - involved working with local mana whenua on the restoration of the land bordering the Kaituna River with a long term aim of turning three hectares in to twelve hectares of reserve.  Projects to date including putting in 750 metres of stock fencing, removal of feral goats, and the planting of around 10,000 plants.  The zipline was officially opened on 5 May 2022.  Feedback to date, particularly from local iwi, was positive.

·       Cr Te Taru White – Bay of Plenty Regional Council

-      Following the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Quayside Holdings Ltd and Tapuika, work was forging ahead with the expressway connection to the Rangiuru Industrial Park.

-      Provided a brief update on the Waihī Estuary restoration project.

10.36am – Deputy Mayor John Scrimgeour entered the meeting.

·       Cr Grant Dally – Western Bay of Plenty District Council (WBOPDC)

-      WBOPDC had progressed well with the marae wastewater project.  Work needed to be completed by 30 June 2022.

-      Te Puke/Maketu Reserve Management Plan was due to be adopted by WBOPDC on 14 June 2022.

-      The Te Puke History and Cultural Heritage Signs project was looking to provide new signage around Te Puke as part of a heritage trail.

·       Mr Geoff Rice – Tapuika Iwi Authority Trust

-      A riparian project was underway on Otukawa farm.  The farm bordered the Kaituna in parts on the northern side of Pah Road.  The project included refencing and replanting with the aim to improve the waterways in the area.

·       Cr Jane Nees – Bay of Plenty Regional Council

-      Regional Council’s Environmental Enhancement Fund was open for applications. $300,000 would be available in the new financial year.

8.1

Te Maru o Kaituna Action Plan March - May 2022 Status Report

Presentation:    Te Tini a Tuna March - May Quarterly Report: Objective ID A4101299   

Presented by:   Pim de Monchy, Coastal Catchments Manager

Key Points

·       An overall status update of projects showed that 10 of the 18 projects were on track, six projects had some slippage and two projects were yet to start.

·       Updates were provided for Project 1 (Output 1B) – Upgraded pump station at Ford Road, Project 4 – Waitepuia Focus Catchment, Project 7 (Output 7A) – Te Pā Ika Wetland, and Project 11A – Kaituna River access.

·       Operations Update:

-      The Bay of Plenty Regional Council (Regional Council) Maritime team had been working with Kaituna River locals and landowners to install “Slow Down for Swimmers” signage at identified swimming ‘hot spots’.

-      Regional Council had made an offer to Western Bay of Plenty District Council of $250,000 to undertake hardscape/landscaping at the Kaituna Mole with initial conversations indicating a new public toilet, carpark resurfacing and general landscaping in the carpark area being considered.

Resolved

That Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority:

1        Receives the report, Te Maru o Kaituna Action Plan March - May 2022 Status Report.

Dally/Flavell

CARRIED

8.2

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

Presented by:   Jo Watts, Senior Planner (Water Policy)

Key Points

·       Regional Council’s online engagement tools Participate and WET (Water Ecology Tool) were demonstrated.

In Response to Questions

·       All submissions entered via the Participate tool were considered and evaluated.  The tool was an opportunity for anyone to have their say.

·       Trend analysis for WET attributes included ten years of data.  If ten years of data was not available, this was noted on the attribute.

·       Most Territorial Authorities (TA) in New Zealand were reporting trends on a ten yearly basis.  This provided trend information that was still relevant, but went beyond the variability that could occur over short terms.

·       There were four sites within the Kaituna Freshwater Management Unit (FMU).

·       Data collected from WET would also be available via the Land, Air, Water Aotearoa (LAWA) platform so the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) could also access the data through LAWA.

·       The WET tool was in its second iteration.  It was expected that the tool would go through a number of further iterations in the future so that as much feedback as possible could be obtained.

Key Points - Members

·       It was suggested that staff consider providing demonstrations of the online engagement tools at the Te Kete o Matariki event at Te Puke (23 – 24 June 2022).

Resolved

That Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority:

1        Receives the report, Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update.

Flavell/Dally

CARRIED

8.3

Kaituna Catchment Control Scheme Advisory Group Update

Presented by:    Kirsty Brown – Rivers and Drainage Assets Manager

Key Points

·       The purpose of the report was to facilitate better communication flow between the Kaituna Catchment Control Scheme Advisory Group and Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority.

·       The report provided an overview of key topics discussed at the advisory group’s recent meeting on 4 April 2022.

In Response to Questions

·       Capacity review modelling for the Te Puke Stormwater project had been completed.  The project was now moving into the next stage looking at possible mitigation options or solutions to offset any adverse effects on the scheme from development in Te Puke.

·       Riparian planting provided a number of benefits for flood protection and maintenance of drains, and staff continued to support and work in this area.

·       Staff were working closely with the Rangiuru Industrial Park as part of their resource consent application and the park’s drainage issues would be included in this.

Key Points - Members

·       Concern was expressed regarding the further delay in the Ford Road Pump Station project with the cultural assessment.  The project was longstanding and with many delays and every delay was costing the ratepayers more money.

Resolved

That Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority:

1        Receives the report, Kaituna Catchment Control Scheme Advisory Group Update.

Flavell/Kingi

CARRIED

2.1

Te Uepu Chairperson(s) Appointments

Presented by:  Pim de Monchy (Coastal Catchments Manager)

                          Yvonne Tatton (Governance Manager)

Key Points:

·    Confirmed the mandated members as listed in the minute attendances.

·    Explained the options for a Chair structure and voting process for appointing the chair positions.

9.49am - Sam Mikaere entered the meeting.

·    Recommended a three year appointment term to align with the local authority election cycle, noting that this did not preclude a Co-Chair from standing down and for Te Uepu to appoint a new Chair.

Key Points - Members:

·    Consensus from the group supported a Co-Chair structure that would build the mana, capacity and experience of members and support working together within the local government operating environment.

Resolved

That Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park:

1        Receives the report, Te Uepu Chairperson(s) Appointments.

2        Adopts a Co-Chair structure for Te Uepu with one Chair being a Regional Council member and one Chair being a Tangata Whenua member;

3        Agrees the appointments are to be for a 3 year term and to align with the local government elections cycle.

4        Selects System B as the voting system for the election of Co-Chairs or a Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson.

Nees/McDonald

CARRIED

Cr Bruning nominated Cr McDonald as the Regional Council Co-Chair, which was seconded by Cr Nees.

Maru Tapsell nominated himself as the Tangata Whenua Co-Chair, which was seconded by Aroha Ririnui. Mokoera Te Amo supported the nomination and advised he would amend his representation to that of Alternate Member with Maru as Te Kapū o Waitaha’s primary member to enable his appointment to the Co-Chair position.

It was clarified that the mandate to amend representation sat with the governing entity, therefore the nomination to appoint Maru Tapsell as Te Kapū o Waitaha’s primary member to enable him to be appointed as Co-Chair would be subject to confirmation from Te Kapū o Waitaha.

Maru advised that his appointment to Co-Chair would ensure appropriate direction and understanding of the park’s history, including wāhi tapu and surrounding whenua, which was important for Te Uepu to understand when making decisions.

5        Elects Cr Matemoana McDonald as the Regional Council Co-Chair of Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park.

Bruning/Nees

CARRIED

6        Accepts the nomination of Maru Tapsell as the Tangata Whenua Co-Chair, subject to confirmation from Te Kapū o Waitaha that he be appointed as Te Kapū o Waitaha’s primary member and Mokoera Te Amo be appointed as the Alternate Member.

Te Amo/Ririnui

CARRIED

Co-Chair Cr McDonald requested that Pim de Monchy continue chairing the meeting for its duration.

Resolved

That the Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park:

1        Accepts the apology from Cr Stuart Crosby (for absence) and Cr Jane Nees (for early departure at 11.30 am) tendered at the meeting.

Bruning/McDonald

CARRIED

4.1

Public Excluded Item 11.2 - Papamoa Hills Park Ranger role

Resolved

That the Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park:

1     Receives the report, Pāpāmoa Hills Park Ranger role and accepts it as an Item not on the Agenda. Notes the reason why this item was not on the Agenda is that work on the procurement process had not progressed sufficiently when the agenda was drafted, and the reason why it cannot be delayed is that
Te Uepu meets very infrequently.

Nees/McDonald

CARRIED

6.1

Te Uepu Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park Meeting Minutes - 9 December 2021

Matters arising

1.     Signage content (agenda page 7) - Aroha Ririnui provided an explanation of the whakatauki that had been chosen for the park signage – “E kore au e ngaro, he kākano i ruia mai i Rangiātea” related to the physical and metaphysical in relation to achieving and attaining higher learning and envisioning your horizons. The whakatauki had been used at the original entrance way and some of the explanation could be found on wikipedia.

2.     Pāpāmoa Hills upgrade project (agenda page 8) – Three Waters funding had been sought but was unsuccessful however, it was noted that other avenues would be pursued where available, including seeking funding opportunities from Te Papa Atawhai/Department of Conservation.

3.     All other actions from the 9 December 2021 meeting had been completed.

Resolved

That Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park:

1        Confirms the Te Uepu Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park Meeting Minutes - 9 December 2021 as a true and correct record.

Nees/McDonald

CARRIED

8.1

Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park Draft Terms of Reference Discussion

Presented by:  Yvonne Tatton (Governance Manager)

Key Points:

·     Noted that the agenda format for the meeting aligned with Local Government Act requirements for Council meetings, which would be reviewed and amended for Te Uepu hui that don’t have the same requirements.

·     The Terms of Reference (TOR) would formalise Te Uepu’s partnership between iwi/hapū and Toi Moana and retain the group’s purpose as established through the Memorandum of Understanding.

·     Explained the options for decision-making alongside additional advisory, financial and monitoring functions, some of which had been identified as requiring clarification within the TOR.

·     Welcomed feedback to assist the development of a draft TOR, which would be presented back to Te Uepu, before being provided to the partner organisations for approval.

In Response to Questions:

·     Decision making by consensus was the current method used by Te Uepu.

·     There had only been one previous decision where a resolution could not be agreed to by Te Uepu’s tangata whenua members in relation to the naming of the park. In this instance, a tikanga process had been followed and as a consequence of members not being able to come to a resolution, the park’s original name was retained.

·     The intent for matters to be referred to the Regional Council for decision, where consensus could not be reached, was in relation to significant matters regarding  park management only. Direction on decisions that related to cultural matters would be sought from tiwi/hapu members.

·     It was understood and accepted that iwi/hapu members may caucus on matters prior to Te Uepu hui.

·     The casting vote would only sit with the Co-Chair who was chairing the meeting (rather than both Co-Chairs having a casting vote).

·     Quorum requirements would be brought back for discussion with the Terms of Reference however it was intended that the quorum provide for an equal number of tangata whenua and council members.

Key Points - Members:

·    Members supported decision-making by consensus as the preferred way forward.

·    Considered that Co-Chairs would have a responsibility to discuss and work issues through together.

·    Noted that staff would provide financial and budget advice and options for consideration.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·    Requested options be provided on quorum requirements for meetings and  that caucusing be validated and provided for in the Terms of Reference.

Resolved

That Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park:

1        Receives the report, Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park Draft Terms of Reference Discussion.

2        Agree that a draft Terms of Reference be developed based on the direction provided at this meeting.

3        Agree that the draft Terms of Reference be reported back to Te Uepu to review prior to being recommended for adoption to the partner organisations.

McDonald/Te Amo

CARRIED

8.2

Park Operations Update

Presented by:  Pim de Monchy (Coastal Catchments Manager)

Key Points:

·    Visitor numbers were lower than the previous year, which was likely due to the Te Puke highway being severely affected by roadworks. As a result of this, Council’s KPI was unlikely to be met.

Resolved

That Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park:

1        Receives the report, Park Operations Update.

Bruning/Ririnui

CARRIED

8.3

Te Whakarauoratanga o Te Rae o Pāpāmoa | Car Park and Entry Upgrade Project Update

Presentation - Pāpāmoa Hills upgrade project: Objective ID A4113286   

Presented by: Matt Stulen, Consultant Planner

Key Points:

·    Provided an overview of Stage 1 construction preload work that had been completed by successful tenderer HEB Contractors.

·    Outlined the timeline for construction.

·    Stage 2 Request for Tenders would commence in early 2023.

·    Thanked Aroha for her work and cultural monitoring on site.

In Response to Questions:

·    Temporary stream diversion was to stabilise the banks to prevent erosion.

Key Points - Members:

·    Highlighted the cultural significance and origin of the stream, which was wāhi tapu and that stream diversion needed to be carefully managed.

·    Cultural monitoring took into consideration all environmental aspects relating to water, land and air.

·    Encouraged other cultural monitors to be involved where interested.

·    Emphasised the importance of protecting the mauri of the whenua.

Resolved

That Te Uepu Pāpāmoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park:

1        Receives the report, Te Whakarauoratanga o Te Rae o Pāpāmoa | Car Park and Entry Upgrade Project Update.

Nees/Bruning

CARRIED

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Accepts the apologies from Cr Tangonui Kingi, Brenda Lewis and Whakaeke Ritete for late arrival/absence tendered at the meeting.

Rangiaho/Araroa

CARRIED

5.1

Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 4 March 2022

Matters Arising

1.       In relation to Minute Item 5.2 – regarding the Wheao reconsent update – Ngāti Manawa would be engaging a consultant to undertake a Cultural Impact Assessment.

2.       In relation to Minute Item 6.2 – the funding application made to the Lions Foundation to help fund a self-contained toilet on the eastern bank of the Thornton river mouth had been approved. It was noted that the application was amongst other funding sources being pursued.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Confirms the Rangitāiki River Forum Minutes - 4 March 2022 as a true and correct record, subject to the following amendments:

·    Minute item 6.2 ‘November 2021-February 2022 Rangitāiki Catchment Programme Dashboard Report’ (agenda page 13) - Key Points members: last bullet point: "An application to Regional Councils Environmental Enhancement Fund had been unsuccessful..." should read: “An application to the Trustpower - Rangitaiki River Environmental Fund Trust was unsuccessful...”

Rangiaho/Winitana

CARRIED

6.1

Old Rangitāiki River Channel Projects

Presentation - Old Rangitaiki River Channel Projects: Objective ID A4119306   

Presented by: Mieke Kapa, Land Management Officer

Mieke Kapa provided a presentation on two projects that were taking place along the old Rangitāiki River channel.

Key Points:

Smith Road Crossing Culvert Upgrade

·    Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC) and Whakatāne District Council (WDC) were working collaboratively together to upgrade the culverts underneath the Smith Road crossing, which go over the old Rangitāiki river channel.

·    WDC had investigated the two culverts and flushed the 1800mm culvert that was partially blocked, however the 1200mm culvert was blocked and found to be collapsing the road, therefore there was a level of urgency to have the culvert replaced.

·    Photos taken in May 2021 showed the blockage impacts within the channel.

·    Proposed options were being considered to upgrade the 1200mm culvert to 1800mm, or to replace both culverts with a single box culvert to create additional tidal flow and improve habitat on the eastward side. A decision on what the best option for the site is was yet to be determined.

Old Rangitāiki River Channel Pond

·    The river channel pond and island was situated on Department of Conservation (DoC) administered land to the left of Thornton Road.

·    BOPRC had a community agreement with DoC for the site.

·    Photos taken in early May 2022 showed water quality degradation in the pond.

·    The culvert had now been replaced, a causeway constructed and the island mulched and sprayed in preparation for planting.

·    The proposed plan was to plant the entire island with native plants over the coming years, with the first lot of planting taking place during the week by  Tāne Mahuta Aotearoa Ltd.

In Response to Questions:

·    The project was financially funded by the BOPRC with agreement and collaboration from DoC.

·    Plant species that were being used included upoko-tangata, karamu, totara, harakeke, kauka, kiekie and Thornton kanuka.

·    The specific harakeke species were unknown; however, all of the plants were grown locally by Coastlands nursery who would be open to sourcing species to collect and grow.

·    Teresa McCauley and Pete Livingston were the DoC staff who were involved with the project and community agreement.

·    The river channel pond was a site used by whitebait inanga spawning, but did not have any evidence of this at the Smith Road crossing; however, future invertebrate surveys may be able to provide further information.

Key Points – Members:

·    Planting of locally sourced harakeke and kiekie would be beneficial for local iwi/hapū to gather for traditional resources to assist with local marae revitalisation projects.

·    DoC administered land allowed mana whenua to have guaranteed access to the area for cultural material plans, therefore the respective iwi/hapū could contact the relevant DoC community ranger to enquire and discuss.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·    Follow-up with Mei Winitana regarding the sourcing of local plant species.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Receives the presentation, Old Rangitāiki River Channel Projects.

Clark/Simpson-Almond

CARRIED

7.1

Update on the Bill Kerrison Memorial Sculpture at Aniwhenua Reserve

Presentation - Bill Kerrison Memorial - Concept sketches, design and themes: Objective ID A4119308   

Presented by: Karito Paul (Alternate member, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Manawa)

Key Points:

·    Karito and Cr Silcock had worked together with artist Himiona Nuku on the overall design concept for Bill Kerrison’s memorial.

·    The design was textual, large in scale and based on the model of a hinaki that would incorporate a shelter, carved waharoa, tuna motifs, tuna life cycle information and a monument board dedicated to Bill’s life mahi.

·    The design concept had been shared with Bill’s whānau and wife Ruby who were impressed with the concept and the continuation/recognition of Bill and his mahi.

·    Personalised commemorations on the monument board would be shared with Bill’s whānau before they were finalised.

·    The monument’s orientation would face north to reflect the tuna migration with its location yet to be determined.

10:30 am – Cr Silcock entered the meeting.

In Response to Questions:

·    A funding application would be submitted to BOPRC’s Environmental Enhancement Fund which opened in July 2022 and other funding avenues could be pursued if needed.

·    Did not consider funding to construct the memorial would be an issue due to Bill’s status and mana which a number of people, community groups and agencies held in high regard.

·    General maintenance and upkeep would need to be a consideration however, noted that Holly’s Playground was well maintained by the community.

·    Envisioned that the kaitiaki/maintenance of the memorial would be held by the students of Bill; however, still needed to be discussed.

Key Points - Members:

·    Commended the fantastic design concept that would keep the continuation of Bill’s mahi alive; and seeking endorsement of it from Bill’s whānau.

·    Incorporating recognition of Trustpower and Mangu Clark from Uiraroa Marae to acknowledge their support of Bill’s work and the establishment and operation of the Kokopu Trust was noted and acknowledged.

·    Noted that the responsibility of maintenance and upkeep of the memorial needed further consideration. Initial thoughts envisioned the upkeep as a shared responsibility by Kokopu Trust students, tuna kaimahi and local hapū/whānau/community.

·    Construction and maintenance needed to consider health and safety.

·    Considered that the Regional Council may be able to support the shared maintenance of the memorial.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Receives the Verbal Update on the Bill Kerrison Memorial Sculpture at Aniwhenua Reserve.

Rangiaho/Araroa

CARRIED

7.2

Forum Members' Verbal Updates

Cr Bill Clark – Bay of Plenty Regional Council

·    Referred to a published article about an irrigation scheme in the South Island that had installed fish passage at a cost of $18M, which would be beneficial to investigate.

Ngapera Rangiaho – Tūhoe Te Uru Taumatua

·    Provided an update on activities from Waiohau:

o   Civil defence emergency management workshop training was held with Justin Douglas and local Haumaru team at Waiohau Marae.

o   Willow clearance had been completed in the Waikokopu stream and was looking great.

o   Resource consent activity - roadworks, culvert replacement and restoration work was progressing well by Wilson Farm.

o   Quarry owner Jessica Wisemen consented activity was progressing well with regular engagement from local Kaumātua Tom Tupe and Tunihia Tupe regarding cultural assessment and safety management to ensure community safety is maintained.

·    Update on Kokopu Trust activity:

o   Had visited Manawa Energy to observe Stage 2 of the elver elevator in-river installation trial. The first attempt had been unsuccessful and feedback/consideration given to the use of more natural materials that were being used by the current transfer operation.

o   Expressed thanks to Manawa Energy for providing a two-day boat and navigation training to Kokopū Trust representatives, which had been greatly received and appreciated. Further training opportunities was to be offered to other local iwi/hapū representatives.

Mei Winitana – Ngāti Hineuru

·    An invitation would be extended to Forum members towards early 2023 for a rescheduled visit and pōwhiri to Te Haroto marae, Lake Pouarua and other sites.

·    Noted that litigation with Hawke’s Bay Regional Council was pending in relation to a Mohaka river tributary and resource consent process for aggregate river takes.

·    Geothermal feasibility studies were being undertaken for the Tarawera Hot Springs (located on Taupō-Napier Highway).

Shaneen Simpson-Almond – Ngāti Tūwharetoa (BOP) Settlement Trust

·    Noted that Tūwharetoa mai Kawerau ki te Tai had a geothermal team which Ngāti Hineuru’s Board may wish to seek advice from.

8.1

Change in Membership

Resolved

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).

Winitana/Araroa

CARRIED

8.2

Rangitaiki Catchment Programme Dashboard - March-May 2022

Presented by:  Chris Ingle (General Manager Integrated Catchments)

Key Points:

·    Noted there was a significant amount of work taking place and the majority of projects were progressing well.

In Response to Questions:

·    Peter Mulvihill (Consultant for Southern Generation Partnership Limited) and Charles Harley (Team Leader Eastern Catchments) were investigating methods for lake weed control at Lake Aniwaniwa. Some discussions had been held with Ngāti Manawa and potential engagement of NIWA being pursued and to be confirmed.

·    River scheme maintenance programme (action under Objective 7) included native plant restoration and clearing that was currently taking place around the Te Teko bridge.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·    Actions 5.5 and 8.6 - provide an update on progress made with engaging NIWA to review weed control methodology at Lake Aniwaniwa.

·    Action 2.3 Upper Rangitāiki wilding conifer programme work – Miro Araroa queried if local rangatahi were or could be involved in this mahi.

·    Requested a timeframe indicator within the Dashboard report to identify where programmed works were at in terms of their completion.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Receives the report, Rangitaiki Catchment Programme Dashboard - March-May 2022.

Silcock/Winters

CARRIED

8.3

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

Presentation - EFPP Update and Visions: Objective ID A4119307 

Presentation - Rangitaiki Freshwater Update Online Tools Demo: Objective ID A4119311   

Presented by:  Michelle Lee (Planner (Water Policy))

Key Points:

·    Essential Freshwater Policy Programme (EFPP) work was currently on schedule for the Rangitāiki.

·    Current focus was engaging with iwi/hapū who were willing to engage.

·    Expressed thanks for the feedback that had been shared by Iwi members in the last few months on incorporating perspectives of Mātauranga Māori.

·    Demonstrated the interactive tools (i.e. WET) that was now available online at www.participate.boprc.govt.nz/vision-and-outcomes/rangitaiki-feedback for people to express thoughts on Rangitāiki freshwater values that would help inform long term visions alongside tangata whenua input.

·    Feedback could be submitted online by 29 June and would be eligible to enter a draw for $200 gift vouchers.

·    Baseline indicators related to the bands within the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM).

·    Encouraged members to use the WET tool to provide feedback.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

1        Receives the report, Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update.

Rangiaho/Clark

CARRIED

8.4

Update from the Rangitaiki-Tarawera Rivers Scheme Advisory Group

Presented by:  Chris Ingle (General Manager Integrated Catchments)

Key Points:

·    The aim of the report was to provide a better level of understanding and communication of what was being discussed by the River Scheme Advisory Group and to determine if Forum members wished to become involved or seek further information.

·    Noted that Councillors Bill Clark and Toi Iti were members of the advisory group and provided a good link between the two groups.

Key Points - Members:

·    Ngapera noted that Tūhoe’s Tribal Authority Chair Patrick McGarvey had shown an interest to attend the Whakatāne River Scheme Advisory Group hui, which was good to see.

Resolved

That the Rangitāiki River Forum:

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

Silcock/Simpson-Almond

CARRIED

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1        Accepts the apologies from Pia Bennett, Cr Grant Dally, Te Pio Kawe and Rehua Smallman for absence; and from Cr Nees, Commissioner Rolleston and Commissioner Wasley for early departure tendered at the meeting.

McDonald/Dean

CARRIED

5.1

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes - 25 March 2022

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1.         Confirms the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes - 25 March 2022 as a true and correct record.

McDonald/Dean

CARRIED

8.

Whakahoutanga Kōrero
Verbal Updates

8.1

Port of Tauranga Update

Item deferred to next meeting.

9.1

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

Presented by James Low, BOPRC Team Leader Policy (Freshwater), and James Dare, BOPRC Environmental Scientist (Water Quality).

Key Points:

·      Update provided on progress with the Essential Freshwater Policy Programme (EFPP)

·      Demonstrated tools to develop visions for freshwater - Essential Freshwater Visions and Outcomes | Participate BOPRC

·      Public feedback was sought via the online tool to provide quantitative results based on values - participants who provided feedback could enter a draw to win a $200 gift voucher

·      Demonstrated the interactive Water Ecology Tool (WET) which provided access to water quality information from monitoring of Bay of Plenty rivers, groundwater and lakes: WET - Bay of Plenty Regional Council (shinyapps.io)

·      Data could be refined by indicator, freshwater management unit or rohe to view baseline states, current states, and trends - with public access to data on a user-friendly platform, and the ability to view multi-layer information, including raw data via excel

·      Encouraged members to access WET and provide feedback

·      Videos to demonstrate how to use WET were being considered

·      Confirmed WET aligned with the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPSFM) workstream

·      Endeavoured to capture differences in visions between Freshwater Management Units (FMUs), although there would be some commonalities between FMUs.

Key Points - Members:

·      Questioned how use of the tool by the public would be recorded

·      Suggested making the tool more accessible to the public by developing a game element, similar to the prototype Marae-opoly adaption planning game

In Response to Questions:

·      At this stage WET did not encompass Mahinga Kai

·      Regarding WET’s potential use for multiple-owned Māori land in terms of best use for future development, WET could potentially provide contextual information about the state of the environment in that area only.

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1.        Receives the report, Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update.

Wasley/Dean

CARRIED

10.1

Manaaki Kaimai-Mamaku Trust Kaupapa

Presentation 1 - Louise Saunders: Manaaki Kaimai-Mamaku Trust Presentation - 17 June 2022: Objective ID A4119701   

Presented by: Louise Saunders, CEO Manaaki Kaimai-Mamaku Trust.

Key Points:

·      The key message was the health of the forest directly impacted Tauranga Moana – “fish need forests”

·      An overview of the whakapapa, role and key achievements of the Manaaki Kaimai-Mamaku Trust was provided, including:

o  Created a vision and mission to guide the mahi

o  Formed the Joint Agency Committee (BOPRC, Waikato Regional Council, DOC and Representatives of the Manaaki Kaimai-Mamaku Trust)

o  Protected the wide variety of species in the Kaimai-Mamaku ranges

o  Developed the Pest Control Management Document to improve methods and co-ordination between agencies

o  Produced the State of the Environment Report

o  Created Ngā Iwi Tōpū as a rōpū for iwi and hapū with mana whenua interests in the Kaimai Mamaku area, and Māori with an interest in the kaupapa, to share ideas and opportunities

o  Noted the change from a Forum to a Trust was to establish a formal entity which was required for funding eligibility, and to formalise the co-governance structure

o  Management was taken over by the Trust from Te Papa Atawhai on the 1^st April 2022 which was identified as a key milestone

o  Secured funding from the Covid Recovery Package and Jobs for Nature, with $19.4 million received for restoration principally on public conservation land and through iwi and hapū led projects

o  Changed the kaupapa from just pest control to a more holistic conservation and restoration role

·      Key areas of focus were identified:

o  Projects, monitoring, relationships and communication

o  Improved the website and increased communication through a regular newsletter

o  Increased project efficiency, coordination and reporting, with a focus on conservation and employment outcomes and milestones, with cultural health and social indicators to be reported

o  Shared knowledge and collective action through Geographic Information System (GIS) database to connect projects and groups

·      Emphasised the importance of people re-engaging with the whenua. This increased individual’s wellbeing and gave benefits from collaboration, which provided momentum to projects

·      Where to from here:

o  Establish Monitoring Working Group to provide better data visibility and transparency

o  Ensure pest control methods remained effective

o  Increase use of Mātauranga Māori and development of measurable cultural health indicators

o  Increase community engagement, especially on the Waikato side – online engagement platform

o  Jobs For Nature ends in June 2024 – sources of long term funding needed to be secured. Focussed on the measurability of outcomes to ‘sell’ to potential funders through the GIS dashboard and data transparency.

Key Points - Members:

·      Commended the comprehensive update, passion and mahi for the project.

10.2

New Care Plan for Mauao and Strategy for Mauao Trust / Mauao Kaitiaki Group Update

Presentation 2 - Elva Conroy: New Care Plan for Mauao and Strategy for Mauao Trust - 17 June 2022: Objective ID A4121536 

Presented by: Elva Conroy, Consultant Planner.

Presentation 3 - Kia Maia Ellis: Mauao Kaitiaki Group Update - 17 June 2022: Objective ID A4121548   

Presented by: Kia Maia Ellis, Kairangahau Phd Student at the University of Waikato/Project Manager Tauranga Moana Iwi Customary Fisheries Trust.

Key Points – Elva Conroy:

·      Introduced the 10 year strategy developed for the Mauao Trust as a care plan for Mauao - He Korowai Ariki o Mauao

·      The plan is an adaption of Sir Mason Durie's Te Whare Tapa Whā model with the 15 actions grouped into 5 key wellbeing focus areas for Mauao:

o  Te Tinana – physical wellbeing

§ Included planting, restoration and the long term aspiration of being predator free

o  Te Hinengaro – emotional and mental wellbeing

§ Ensured historical and cultural context of Mauao was strong and heritage sites were maintained

o  Te Wairua – spiritual wellbeing

§ The use of cultural practices and Mātauranga Māori in restoration projects

§ Mauao allowed appropriate time to rest

o  Te Whānau – connection to iwi and hapū

§ Whānau were able to demonstrate their role as kaitiaki through engagement projects, events and conservation training

o  Hautūtanga – governance

§ Included an appropriate allocation of resources for administrational support and regular meetings of the Mauao Trust

§ Financial sustainability through funding being secured.

Key Points – Kia Maia Ellis:

·      The  first project from the Mauao care plan was focussed on Te Tinana and Te Whānau

·      Mauao physical health check discovered mertyl rust:

o  On Pohutukawa trees on Mauao since April 2022 - emphasised that Pohutukawa were the Taonga of Mauao as they protected other species

o  Infected plants removed where people walk, as walkers were the assumed carriers of spores. This aimed to prevent spread to larger trees

·      Kaitiakitanga encouraged for Mauao’s wellbeing

·      Te Ao Māori perspective used in conjunction with a mertyl rust expert

·      Rangitahi group has been utilised to ensure active succession planning, focussed on training, surveillance and commitment

·      Needed more members of the active kaitiaki group trained to do the mahi of checking plants.

Key Points - Members:

·      Questioned whether local native seedlings were being used for planting on Mauao. The Matakana Nursery was identified as a primary source of plants, with schools involved with cultivating seedlings from Mauao

·      Background information was provided regarding the co-management of Mauao by the three iwi making up the Mauao Trust (Ngāi Te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāti Pūkenga) and TCC through Ngā Poutiriao ō Mauao

·      Emphasised the collaborative nature of the relationship between the Mauao Trust, Ngā Poutiriao ō Mauao and the Kaitiaki group being formed.

10.3

Waikato University Update: Changes in Seagrass Beds and Modelling the Impact of Urban Growth in Tauranga Moana Catchments on the Health of the Harbour

Presentation 4 - Professor Chris Battershill: Changes in Seagrass Beds and Modelling the Impact of Urban Growth in Tauranga Moana Catchments and the Health of the Harbour - 17 June 2022: Objective ID A4121551   

Presented by: Professor Chris Battershill, Toihuarewa – Takutai Chair in Coastal Sciences - University of Waikato.

Key Points:

·      Identified the significant reduction in seagrass in Tauranga Moana and the entire moana was due to a variety of factors:

o  Marine heatwaves stressing the habitat

o  Fast changing marine environment which included disease and increased competition

o  Increased populations of black swan and Canadian geese

§ Consumption of seagrass by the birds had almost overtaken seagrass regrowth rate. Research would be undertaken and a humane mitigation method to reduce bird numbers and maintain a balance of species investigated

§ Appeared nitrogen produced by the birds had a negligible effect compared to nitrogen and phosphorus from rivers, although the effect of coliform production through faecal matter was still unknown, with research to be conducted

o  Land use changes had increased pollutants

o  Boats anchored on seagrass beds had caused damage, but more likely brought invasive species from other areas of Aotearoa. Future attention was needed around mooring sites

o  The potential environmental impact of dredging from the port company would be assessed via hearings

·      Introduced the Oranga Taiao Oranga Tāngata - Integrated Spatial Planning Tool (ISPT) which has been developed as a modelling tool from previous hydrology research. This assessed the effect of land use, climate change and other actions which impacted the environment

·      Future planning for land around Tauranga Moana would be aided by the modelling tool

·      Research specific to Tauranga Moana would be conducted and a report provided once scenarios had been run through the modelling tool. The accuracy of the modelling tool would be tested during the development of the Ngāti Pūkenga Ngāpeke block.

Key Points - Members:

·      Expressed concern that culling of birdlife should only be done after sufficient research and through a strictly evidence based approach. Information regarding the working group looking into the Canadian geese and black swan numbers was requested

·      Addressed the rate of urban growth of Tauranga and its potential negative impact on kai moana, in particular the loss of titiko and tuangi.

In response to questions:

·      Noted that continued urban development must be matched by improved practices to mitigate harm to Tauranga Moana

·      Recognised that some improvements were being seen, but were not keeping pace with the rate of development

o  A positive change in practice included algal scrubbing which used seaweed to strip nutrients from sewerage. A fully operational plant was operating in Te Puke and additional plants would be developed

·      Acknowledged the health of Tauranga Moana was fairly good considering it held the busiest commercial port in the country

·      More research was required to understand why certain kai moana species were not returning.

10.4

Tauranga City Council: Freshwater Management Tool

Presentation 5 - Raul Galimidi: Tauranga City Council Freshwater Management Tool - 17 June 2022: Objective ID A4121558   

Presented by: Raul Galimidi - Senior Planning Engineer Waters.

Key Points:

·      A brief overview of the remit of the City Waters team was provided:

o  Undertaking assessments of streams and identified areas vulnerable to erosion and other factors

o  Comprehensive flood modelling tool to inform city planning was being developed

·      Outlined the current Freshwater Management Tool project:

o  Software model was being developed to improve the understanding of groundwater and surface water interactions, and urban contaminants within the Tauranga district area

o  Value for money investment opportunities would be identified

o  The previous 15 years of data would be used to simulate the hydrology and water quality of run off, to predict the future state

o  Different scenarios and potential management interventions would be tested

·      Identified the key driver of the project:

o  Assisted the review of consents for water take and predicted water availability

o  Tested proposed water quality targets set by BOPRC and informed future target setting

o  Improved water quality management and city planning

·      Focussed on Tauranga urban stormwater area, and included the catchments that drained into them - not intended to link to harbour contaminant model at this stage

·      Early engagement with some Tauranga hapū had been conducted, with more engagement proposed.

Key Points - Members:

·      Emphasised the scope and complexity of the water space

·      Highlighted the potential for public confusion and stressed TCC, WBOPDC and BOPRC needed to work collaboratively before seeking community engagement.

Resolved

That the Regional Transport Committee:

1        Accepts the apologies from Mayor Judy Turner, Commissioner Anne Tolley, Helen Rogers, Brent Crowe and Commissioner Selwood (for late arrival and early departure) tendered at the meeting.

Thurston/Nees

CARRIED

5.1

Regional Transport Committee Minutes - 15 March 2022

Resolved

That the Regional Transport Committee:

1        Confirms the Regional Transport Committee Minutes - 15 March 2022 as a true and correct record.

Chadwick/Nees

CARRIED

6.1

Chairperson's Report

Tabled Document 1 - Emissions Reduction Plan - Key Transport Targets and Goals: Objective ID A4106209 

Presentation: Emissions Reduction Plan: Objective ID A4106212   

Team Leader – Transport and Urban Strategy Lorraine Cheyne presented this item (via Zoom), supported by General Manager, Strategy and Science, Namouta Poutasi.

Key Points:

·        Glen Crowther – Environmental Sustainability Advisor presented Tabled Document 1.  This document was compiled from the table of actions in the Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP), specific to matters of interest from a Regional Transport Committee (RTC) perspective, in a more chronological sequence than the ERP

·        The ERP was unique as this was the first time a whole of government approach to climate change had been reached and all core government  responsibilities were woven together throughout

·        The graph on ERP presentation slide four showed how each focus area had influence in the reduction of emissions over the various budgets, and demonstrated the increasing significance of the role of transport emissions reductions to the overall reduction of emissions across the three budgets.

Key Points - Members:

·        The ERP needed to be analysed to ensure targets were correct at a local level and to identify if anything had been missed from a regional approach

·        Expressed concern that the scrap-and-replace trial would still be beyond the means of many rural low income households and other options may need to be considered

·        The focus should be on emissions reduction, not reducing vehicle kilometres.

In Response to Questions:

·        As the ERP had only just become available, analysis was still underway on the document and its implications.  May need to ensure the reduction of Vehicle Kilometres Travelled (VKT) work was aligned and on track.  Further analysis on VKT reduction for the region and economic implications needed

·        The focus for lower income households would be on the scrap-and-replace trial  - it had not been specified whether this would include rural and urban households.

Item for Staff Follow Up:

·        Review the ERP and analyse the implications to the Regional Transport Committee, then report back, in the interim circulate a summary.

6.2

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Quarterly Update - May 2022

Presentation: Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Quarterly Update: Objective ID A4108362   

Director Regional Relationships David Speirs presented this item.

Key Points:

·        Provided an update on the new regulatory funding model and the 30-Year Plan: Baseline Network Version (the digital tool was now operative - launched 14 March 2022)

·        The Business Case Refresh was strongly informed by feedback from key stakeholders.  This was principles based for developing business cases, rather than regulatory based.  Urged members to view the proposed changes as input was still required and some of these needed to be tested with stakeholders

·        The employment initiative launched through the New Zealand Upgrade Programme (NZUP) was proving successful

·        Bilingual traffic and school signs were beginning to be rolled out across the country – the process had been made lengthy by detailed requirements of what signs can and cannot have

·        The Setting of Speed Limits 2022 rule took effect today and introduced the concept of a regional speed management plan on a three year cycle, this process would be coordinated by the RTC and a Regional Speed Management Plan must be set

·        Construction on the new Wairoa Road bridge would begin at the end of the month

·        A challenge with Takitimu North Stage 2 was the freshwater species present along the route, which impacted the schedule

·        Encouraged the public to take advantage of the Eastern Link Toll Road waiving tolls from 4-7 pm Monday to Friday for the next three weeks on westbound lanes.

Key Points - Members:

·        Expressed frustration around current business case processes and hoped that having the strategic alignments would add credibility, with the amendments expediting the process.

in Response to Questions:

·        For cost and practicality reasons, it was intended that bilingual signage would be rolled out nationally as new signs were required or needed replacing

·        The changes to driver licencing fees was to be implemented as soon as possible

·        Waka Kotahi were supportive of a circular economy and alternative resources, and were working with Tūhoe on trials for their green road concept

·        Legibility of the bilingual signs was important – to ensure this, the text remained the same size and the overall size of the sign was increased.

Resolved

That the Regional Transport Committee:

1        Receives the report, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Quarterly Update - May 2022.

Speirs/Thurston

CARRIED

6.3

RLTP Variation - Western Corridor Growth Management – Tauriko West DBC [Enabling Works]

Senior Transport Planner Andrew Williams presented this item (via Zoom).

Key Points - Members:

·        Endorsed this variation and underlined the criticality from a provision of housing perspective

·        Considered that this was an unintended consequence of focusing on emissions instead of roading to meet communities housing requirements

·        Funding toward emissions reduction for public transport services would be contingent on having the services available from the beginning.

In Response to Questions:

·        The majority of funding for this activity would come from Waka Kotahi, which meant a reallocation of projects across the priority list in the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP), not specifically in the Bay of Plenty.

Resolved

That the Regional Transport Committee:

1        Receives the report, RLTP Variation - Western Corridor Growth Management – Tauriko West DBC [Enabling Works];

2        Notes that the proposed variation to the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021-31 to enable the inclusion of a property phase to the activity:  Western Corridor Growth Management – Tauriko West DBC [Enabling Works], triggers the Regional Land Transport Plan’s significance policy; and

3        Approves the proposed variation to the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021-31 to enable the inclusion of a property phase to the activity:  Western Corridor Growth Management – Tauriko West DBC [Enabling Works], and in doing so, exercises its right to determine that the variation is non-significant for the purposes of public consultation.

Webber/Nees

CARRIED

6.4

Chairperson's Report (Continued)

Presentation: Western Bay of Plenty Operational Road Safety Group: Objective ID A4110578   

Key Points:

·        Provided an update of the status of Infrastructure Acceleration Fund (IAF) applications that the RTC endorsed in December 2021:

o   Ōpōtiki District Council – at a sensitive stage of negotiations, a public statement to be released soon

o   Tauranga City Council – of the four applications made, two had been approved in principle subject to no negotiation (Tauriko West and Te Papa)

o   Western Bay of Plenty District Council – application had progressed to the next stage for roading improvements at the State Highway (SH) 2/Ōmōkoroa intersection

o   Rotorua Lakes Council – the request for stormwater infrastructure to support transport infrastructure and enable housing intensification was through to the negotiation stage

·        Rotorua Lakes Council Safer Journeys Coordinator Helen van Beek provided an update (via Zoom) and video of practical driving programme initiative Driver Directions:

o   (204) Driver Directions - A free course to upskill young drivers - YouTube

o   This programme had evolved from a previously theory based programme, with funding from Waka Kotahi

o   There were seven one-day courses held per year during school holidays, with qualified driving instructors, volunteers from the Rotary Club and NZ Police.  Students attended with the caregiver teaching them to drive and the vehicle they were learning in.  Covered a wide range of skills including car maintenance, cyclists and truck experiences on the road, braking safely, reversing, parallel parking and safe following distances

·        Tauranga City Council Travel Safe Team Leader Sonia Lynds provided an update (via Zoom) on behalf of the Western Bay of Plenty Road Safety Group:

o   Collaboration with traffic safety engineers across councils and with Waka Kotahi, NZ Police and ACC was highly valued

o   Promotions were aimed toward all ages, with some focus on younger age groups, cyclists and vulnerable road/footpath users

o   Two-day young drivers workshops were held over school holidays covering topics such as heavy vehicle education and driver behaviour

o   Relationships with primary and secondary schools were important in keeping road safety top of mind

o   There was a strong focus on cycling safety and skills for all ages.

Key Points - Members:

·        Commended the work of the Drivers Direction course and the volunteers/service groups involved

·        The ‘boy racer’ issue was becoming increasingly dangerous, especially in rural areas

·        Expressed concern over vulnerable infrastructure and requested a submission be made by the RTC on the National Adaptation Plan.

In Response to Questions:

·        There were many elements that prioritised roads within the National Adaptation Plan and different interventions being worked through.

Resolved

That the Regional Transport Committee:

1        Receives the report, Chairperson's Report.

Thurston/Nees

CARRIED

6.5

Eastern Districts and Rotorua Lake District Travel Demand Management (TDM) Programme Scoping Studies

Transport and Urban Planning Manager James Llewellyn presented this item (via Zoom).

Key Points:

·        This started the process in understanding how people currently travel, particularly when they are using single occupancy cars and how this behaviour may be changed in the future

·        TDM aimed to understand people’s needs in a variety of contexts including geographic, social and cultural

·        TDM was also supportive of infrastructure investments and service delivery

·        Scoping studies for Rotorua and Eastern Bay of Plenty had been completed, Western Bay of Plenty scoping study would be complete by the end of July 2022.

In Response to Questions:

·        A prioritised implementation plan included costs and an action plan/timeframes will form next steps following the finalisation of the study

·        This work was strongly supportive of all work underway through the Transport System Plan (TSP), and was intended to underpin this, rather than replace it.

Resolved

That the Regional Transport Committee:

1        Receives the report, Eastern Districts and Rotorua Lake District Travel Demand Management Programme Scoping Studies;

2        Receives the draft Travel Demand Management Scoping Studies for the Eastern Districts and Rotorua Lakes District

(a)    Notes that a partner prioritised implementation plan will be prepared to   be considered through respective organisations decision making processes;   

(b) Notes that once the implementation plan is completed, further   consideration of implementation activities will occur through future annual plan and long term plan processes;

3        Notes that the Western Bay Scoping Study is underway; and

4        Agrees that the Travel Demand Management programme is within the scope of the Committee’s Terms of Reference.

Chadwick/Riesterer

CARRIED

6.6

New Zealand Freight and Supply Chain Issues Paper

Presentation: NZ Freight and Supply Chain Issues Paper: Objective ID A4106286   

Senior Transport Planner Matthew Kilpatrick presented this item (via Zoom).

Key Points:

·        The Port of Tauranga was the key driver of freight activity and goods movement, and the largest export port in New Zealand

·        Annual traffic volumes in Tauranga had increased by 8%, impacting the movement of freight and goods on key corridors.

Key Points - Members:

·        More updated information was available from the Port of Tauranga Annual Report June 2021.  Noted that coastal shipping was less restrictive than that stated on Page 212 of the agenda

·        An important part of reducing CO2 emissions for the Port was for the planned berth extension to occur, which would allow larger vessels and the implementation of electric cranes

·        Important to note that a central government decision around the future of the Ports of Auckland was due to be made in 2023

·        Freight movements in the region would continue to increase and understanding resilience on road and coastal shipping networks was fundamental

·        Raised the importance of the East Coast Main Trunk as a key issue for strategic investment that needed to be made sooner rather than later.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·        Seek Port of Tauranga input into the submission prior to finalisation.

Resolved

That the Regional Transport Committee:

1        Receives the report, New Zealand Freight and Supply Chain Issues Paper;

2        Endorses the formal submission attached which outlines a general support on the paper, including the following amendments:

·       Emphasise the importance of the Port of Tauranga;

·       Link the Rail Network Investment Programme and rail opportunities including electrification;

·       Ensuring route security and the impact of road safety, and

·       Link to Ōpōtiki Harbour Transformation and Kawerau Inland Terminal;

3        Delegates authority to the Chair to sign off the final amended version of the submission.

Webber/Chadwick

CARRIED

6.7

Draft Regional Public Transport Plan

Transport and Urban Planning Manager James Llewellyn presented this item.

In Response to Questions:

·        The Regional Public Transport Plan set the long term vision and policies for public transport across the region in the next ten years.  Various sub-regional partnerships (e.g. TSP) would then take this work and establish how the policies would be implemented - business cases, network refreshes etc

·        Any business case that came through the TSP would have a strategic case associated with it, which would be cognisant of all existing policies at a national, regional and local level, therefore providing sufficient opportunity for consistency to be delivered through the process.

Resolved

That the Regional Transport Committee:

1        Receives the report, Draft Regional Public Transport Plan;

2        Notes that the draft document has been developed in a manner consistent with the broader transport policy direction in the Bay of Plenty Regional Land Transport Plan 2021-31.

Thurston/Nees

CARRIED

6

Verbal Update Opportunity from Committee Members and Advisors

Key Points:

           Glen Crowther – Environmental Sustainability Advisor

·        A key contextual issue in the ERP was that although it presented a significant change with a broad scope, internationally it did not measure up.

Mayor Riesterer – Ōpōtiki District Council

·        Noted that the population of Ōpōtiki was now over 10,000, a recognisable milestone.

Mayor Campbell and Deputy Mayor Faylene Tunui – Kawerau District Council

·        Were still waiting for 70 km/hr signs requested for SH34 through Kawerau district

·        Raised an issue with the new two-lane roundabout where irresponsible drivers were attempting to race trucks around it

·        Encouraged by the driver safety operations in Rotorua and Western Bay of Plenty

·        Highlighted the increasing need for another bridge in Whakatāne

·       The TDM did not take into consideration the movement of people in and out of Kawerau and were interested in discovering how, why and where from/to that people were travelling

·       Requested further input into the TDM and discussions with Kawerau DC staff and Councillors prior to finalising.

Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles – Whakatāne District Council

·       Route security was vital for freight traffic travelling through the Eastern Bay of Plenty and the deterioration of highways was significant, with surface repairs not addressing the issues.

Mayor Chadwick – Rotorua Lakes Council

·        Advised of another new product for a circular economy – crushed glass which could be used for pathways etc.  A trial was underway and these types of options should be considered

·        Commended the driver licensing affordability changes as having a license was a passport to work and wellbeing for young people in rural areas

Cr Nees – Bay of Plenty Regional Council

·        Acknowledged the new Trust set up which Deputy Mayor Iles was involved with, and the positive rural transport options being considered

·        Consultation continued on the Rotorua Network Refresh

·        On-demand trial in Tauranga was being rescoped and expected to be returned to the Public Transport Committee in September 2022

·        A bus decarbonisation feasibility study was underway

·        There was funding in the Annual Plan for a Bay of Plenty transport reduction plan, which would be assisted by some of the TDM work

·        Free fare trials for youth had been reduced to only on school days/around school hours to address antisocial behaviour issues in the Tauranga bus network.  A wider taskforce approach had also been suggested.

2.1

Chairperson's Report

Chair Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti acknowledged the passing of Whakatōhea member, Josie Mortensen and her strong contribution to the Forum.

Trevor Ransfield – Te Upokorehe paid tribute to Josie, recognising her commitment to the community and her significant lifetime achievements.

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1        Accepts the apologies from Cr Debi Hocart and Tu O’Brien tendered at the meeting.

Bluett/Riesterer

CARRIED

8.1

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Minutes - 12 November 2021

Matters Arising

In relation to Minute Item 6.6, Resolution 3; Coastal Catchments Manager Pim de Monchy advised members that a letter had not been written to Fish and Game New Zealand as this was no longer required.  Investigation of Fish and Game regulations clarified that in addition to the late February special season for hunting black swan, they were considered a game bird and as such could also be hunted during Game Bird Season.

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1        Confirms the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Minutes - 12 November 2021 as a true and correct record.

Iles/Ransfield

CARRIED

9.1

Ōhiwa website development

Dr. Tanja Rother, PhD - Shared Landscapes – Intercultural Research & Engagement Services presented this item (via Zoom).

Key Points:

·        Demonstrated the website’s tabs and features and outlined content:  Home | Ohiwaharbour (hello66411.wixsite.com)

·        There were future opportunities for the website to become more interactive and inclusive of the wider Ōhiwa community, including an archive of the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy and related documents.

Key Points - Members:

·        Commended the visual aspects of the website

·        Making the website bilingual was an important step, although the cost was likely to be significant and funding needed to be addressed

·        Add a Rāhui component to the website to help people understand the concept and implications of when this was in place

·        Requested a presentation be made to Upokorehe, Whakatōhea, and Ngāti Awa so that mana whenua were included and had a good understanding of the website which would also add value to other initiatives in the future.

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1        Receives the report, Ōhiwa website development;

2        Endorses the public release of the Ōhiwa website, once the presentation has also been made to ngā hapū, ngā iwi;

3        Endorses the ongoing content development of the Ōhiwa website.

Bluett/Riesterer

CARRIED

9.2

Nukuhou Water Quality Summary

Presentation: Nukuhou Water Quality Summary: Objective ID A4090035   

Environmental Scientist (Water Quality) James Dare presented this item.

Key Points:

·       Explained trend analysis as it related to data around Nukuhou water quality

·        Outlined short , medium  and long term trends, their benefits and how the data was used

·        Explained the gradient of stability and the positives/negatives which needed to be taken into account

·        Nukuhou catchment contaminants were reducing in magnitude over time, therefore overall the water quality was gradually improving

·       Faecal contamination and sediment were of the highest concern.

Key Points - Members:

·       Agreed that receiving both sets of information (medium and long term data) was important to see the long term picture as well as identifying what required more immediate attention

·       Improved results were expected to be observed once Farm Management Plans (FMPs) were all in place (by 2025).

In Response to Questions:

·       Abnormal rainfall would likely cause more mobilisation (e.g. flushing of nitrogen causing higher loads), the effect of which would depend on how the catchment responded to elevated flows

·       Gaps in the first portions of each graph were potentially due to resourcing issues at the time of the data collection

·       Every catchment that was part of the environmental monitoring network was included in the comparison data.

In Response to Questions (Pim de Monchy – Coastal Catchments Manager):

·       Catchment Land Use for Environmental Sustainability (CLUES) Modelling and more recently, SedNet modelling had taken place in the Ōhiwa catchment

·       The underlying assumptions in the CLUES modelling were that exotic forestry on steep country (as opposed to pastural grazing) would reduce E-Coli and nitrogen losses, and over the long term would generally reduce phosphorous and sediment losses.  This was providing that there was no large rainfall event during the first two years after harvesting

·       Slash management was a separate issue for which there continued to be room for improvement, but advising at the time of planting was important to determine where to plant, skid site locations, offsets and slash management opportunities

·       Although there was still some pinus radiata forestry in the catchment, there was significantly less than there used to be.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·        Provide statistics and information about land use and farming change in the Nukuhou catchment to a future meeting.

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1        Receives the report, Nukuhou Water Quality Summary.

Iles/Riesterer

CARRIED

9.3

Improving the quality of freshwater in the Ōhiwa catchment

Presentation: Improving quality of freshwater in Ōhiwa catchment: Objective ID A4090037

Land Management Officer Tim Senior presented this item.

Key Points:

·       Highlighted where the majority of sediment in the Ōhiwa catchment originated from, namely land slips caused by major rain events

·       Although some of this could not be prevented, there were measures that could be taken to potentially mitigate small slips on steep slopes, including planting trees such as poplars on gradient land to assist in holding it back.  This issue could also be addressed through farm management practices

·       Whilst it could be determined where these issues were likely to occur, Council did not have authority to enforce change, although it may be addressed through FMPs.  All these measures were currently voluntary on behalf of the landowners

·       Options/techniques needed to be developed for how to manage the issue of high, steep river banks as simply planting natives was not a viable solution (these would get washed away in a rainfall event)

·       Dead trees, particularly old willows, were falling into the river, forcing water to be pushed into the banks and exacerbating the problem

·       Shrub Willows were being planted to stabilise riverbanks as they had the advantage of a large root base and did not fall into the river, taking the bank with them

·       Rock was another option which had been successful in holding banks up (and vegetation would eventually grow between), but this was expensive

·       Surface run off accounted for approximately 10% of sediment that entered Ōhiwa Harbour

·       Wet, boggy areas were valuable for trapping sediment and nutrients but were generally unpopular on farms as it reduced the potential for grazing - it was hoped that this type of issue would be addressed through the new FMP rules.

Key Points - Members:

·        Reiterated the importance of the Forum with regard to making clear, well-reasoned submissions to future plans

·        Consolidation/amalgamation of farming properties could create further ongoing impacts with unintended consequences e.g. longer races.

In Response to Questions:

·        There was increasing awareness from farmers of what was needed to increase water quality, although at different rates.  Generally dairy farms were becoming less intensified and looking for productivity versus profit - less stock could be managed for less input without decreasing profits

·        ‘Riparian planting’ refers to planting on all waterways, including rivers, streams and drains.

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1        Receives the report, Improving the quality of freshwater in the Ōhiwa catchment.

Iles/Riesterer

CARRIED

9.4

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update and Visions

Presentation: Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum visions and EFPP: Objective ID A4090038   

Senior Planners (Water Policy) Gemma Moleta and Reuben Gardiner presented this item.

Key Points:

·       Outlined the National Objectives Framework, under the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS-FM)

·       Explained what Vision under the NPS-FM meant for Ōhiwa Harbour and the process for establishing this

·       Online engagement was underway, with more intensive engagement planned for 2023 - once there was a clearer idea of rules, targets and implications for landowners

·       Clarified that engagement with forums and co-governance groups was not a proxy for engagement with iwi/hapū

·       The example vision had been taken from key goals/vision for the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy.  Noted key aspects of this:

o   Acknowledged that the harbour was also important to the Freshwater Management Unit (FMU) as its receiving environment;

o   the importance of sustaining the lives of future generations;

o   the purpose of water quantity and water quality;

o   healthy and abundant mahinga kai;

o   reducing sediment;

o   protecting sites of cultural significance and protecting the mauri.

Key Points - Members:

·       Acknowledged that this was a unique opportunity to influence the plan which set the rules, with a firm focus on the needs of Ōhiwa

·       Supported having a combined iwi hui on the long term vision for the FMU, as well as holding a workshop for the Forum members.

In Response to Questions:

·        Starting points for the visions were very different within the thirteen FMUs, Ōhiwa Harbour had a shared benefit of already having a strategy in place, therefore a strong direction to start from

·        It was also important to check that the goals set in the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy were the same ones the Forum wished to bring forward in this opportunity.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·        Arrange a separate workshop with Care Groups from the Ōhiwa rohe, so they were also included on a wider engagement of what was underway in this space.

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1        Receives the report, Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update and Visions;

2        Agrees to participate in a workshop on this topic as soon as practicable.

Iti/Riesterer

CARRIED

9.5

Update on the Ohiwa Harbour Awhi Mai Awhi Atu, Sustainable Seas, National Science Challenge project April 2022

Presentation: Awhi Mai Awhi Atu: Objective ID A4094889   

Waikato University Associate Professor Dr Kura Paul-Burke and PhD student Megan Ranapia presented this item.

Key Points:

·        The Awhi Mai Awhi Atu project was well ahead of the planned schedule, noted that the project was funded from 2019 until June 2023

·        In 2019, K4 was the last traditional mussel bed remaining in the harbour, with approximately 78,000 mussels

·        In 2021, the mussel population had grown to approximately 745,000 mussels throughout the harbour

·        A strong measure of success would be if K1 and K2 beds were still there in the future

·        In January 2022, tuangi (cockles) and pipi surveys were undertaken in the harbour and 5 million tuangi were estimated on the western side.  Results confirmed they were smaller than they used to be, which could be contributed to a number of factors

·        An unexpected titikō (mud snail) bed was also discovered, along with an estimated 300 tipa (scallops) and 20 hururoa (horse mussels)

·        Hururoa helped clean the water and had increasingly thin shells due to higher acidity in the water.  Recreational dredging had detrimental impacts on tipa and hururoa, causing population decline across the country

·        Seastar management trials showed that they were still reproducing and recruiting in the harbour

·        Different removal methods were being considered including trapping, diver removal and a combined approach

·        Seastar sampling had been completed and lab testing showed encouraging results for marine protein, which was important for skin and bones.  Using them as food for worm farms were also being considered as an option.

Key Points - Members:

·        Commended how much had been accomplished in increasing shellfish numbers in such a short period of time

·        Upokorehe opened pipi beds for gathering one at a time to ensure sustainability

·        Suggested a relationship be built within the Forum between the science, Ministry for Primary Industries and iwi/hapū for the purposes of growing and protecting the taonga

·        For the 186A Application for Rāhui, there was a set timeframe of a two year minimum whereas customary methods could choose a timeframe

·        It was important to show that a successful way of regenerating shellfish had been made, whilst protecting specific locations.

In Response to Questions:

·       Rāhui was an important short term marine management tool to replenish shellfish and consider action.

Staff In Response to Questions:

·        Working together with Kura and her team to understand requirements of ongoing management priorities and the next generation of research for Ōhiwa Harbour’s marine ecology restoration would be important to identify funding opportunities to implement these.

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1        Receives the report, Update on the Ohiwa Harbour Awhi Mai Awhi Atu, Sustainable Seas, National Science Challenge project April 2022.

Iles/Ransfield

CARRIED

9.6

Work Programme report to 31 March 2022 and proposed work programme for 2022/23

Land Management Officer Tim Senior presented this item.

Key Points:

·        Fish passage barriers in the Ōhiwa catchment had been researched to identify which ones were preventing migration of the freshwater fish

·        eDNA samples had been collected to understand more about which fish were in the catchment and their locations. This data would be analysed for the purposes of stream restoration. 

·        There was a large body of work suggested for 2023 to finish fish barrier assessments and undertake further eDNA work before fixing the barriers.

Key Points - Members:

·        Commended the forward progress of the Forum and the opportunity to be involved in such a positive shift over time, finding solutions for the greater good of Ōhiwa

·        An adaptive and flexible rāhui management plan needed to be considered going forward, to align with science and mātauranga Māori to create a cohesive system that was responsive to the environment and worked for the benefit of all.

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1        Receives the report, Work Programme report to 31 March 2022 and proposed work programme for 2022/23;

2        Endorses the proposed 2022-23 annual work programme.

Riesterer/Ransfield

CARRIED

Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

29 September 2022

Report Authoriser:

Doug Leeder

Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

29 September 2022

Report Writer:

Oliver Haycock, Team Leader - Service Planning and Project Deliver

Report Authoriser:

Mat Taylor, General Manager, Corporate

Purpose:

Request for a change to the financial authority delegated to the Chief Executive in relation to the Public Transport Services & Infrastructure Business Case

A Vibrant Region

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

We contribute to delivering integrated planning and growth management strategies especially for sustainable urban management.

We work with and connect the right people to create a prosperous region and economy.

The Way We Work

We continually seek opportunities to innovate and improve.

We look to partnerships for best outcomes.

We use robust information, science and technology.

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

Medium - Positive

þ Cultural

Medium - Positive

þ Social

Medium - Positive

þ Economic

Medium - Positive

Report To:

Regional Council

Meeting Date:

29 September 2022

Report Writer:

Mark Le Comte, Principal Advisor, Finance and Kumaren Perumal, Chief Financial Officer

Report Authoriser:

Mat Taylor, General Manager, Corporate

Purpose:

To receive Annual Reports for the year ended 30 June 2022 for the Quayside Holdings Limited Group and Toi Moana Trust.

A Healthy Environment

Freshwater for Life

Safe and Resilient Communities

A Vibrant Region

The Way We Work

We deliver value to our ratepayers and our customers.

Dominant Well-Beings Affected

þ Environmental

þ Cultural

þ Social

þ Economic