Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Rārangi Take (Agenda)

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the next meeting of the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum will be held in Mataatua Room, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, 5 Quay Street, Whakatāne on:

Tuesday 14 March 2023 COMMENCING AT 9.30 am

 

Fiona McTavish

Chief Executive, Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana

6 March 2023

 


 

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

Membership

Chairperson

 

Elected by the Forum at its first meeting each Triennium

 

Deputy Chairperson

 

Council Members

 

One representative each from:

 

Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti

Cr Malcom Campbell (Alternate)

Ōpōtiki District Council

Cr Dean Peterson

Cr Steve Nelson (Alternate)

Whakatāne District Council

Cr Andrew Iles

Cr Nāndor Tanczos (Alternate)

Tangata Whenua Members

 

One Tangata Whenua appointee representative each from:

 

Whakatōhea

Karen Mokomoko

Upokorehe

Georgina Kohonui

Haami Aramoana (Alternate)

Ngāti Awa

Charlie Bluett

Tuwhakairiora O’Brien (Alternate)

Ngāi Tuhoe

Hori Hillman

Marewa Titoko (Alternate)

Quorum

Four members, consisting of more than half the number of members

Meeting frequency

Six monthly

Purpose

The Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum is a joint committee to oversee and monitor the implementation of the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy.

Role

The Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

·            Is the sponsor of the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy;

·            Is responsible for overseeing the implementation of the actions in the Strategy;

·            Has an overall monitoring role in terms of timeframes and deliverables;

·            Maintains a general awareness of the issues surrounding the Ōhiwa Harbour Catchment; and

·            Is responsible for reporting back to the strategic partners and to the community.

The Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum will:

·            Receive reports (including those prepared by staff of the three Councils) of what has recently been achieved with regards to implementing the Strategy, and outlining what the next targets for implementation could be;

·            Provide a sounding board for officers to test implementation ideas against;

·            Provide recommendations that can be reported back to councils; and

·            Promote links with the Ōhiwa Harbour Catchment community.

Forum Procedures

·            The establishment and the need for and purpose of the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum is subject to review every three years following local authority elections.

·            Subject to the Forum being re-appointed, member representatives are appointed by their respective appointing entities.

·            The Forum may specifically invite attendance by organisations/groups which they believe will be interested (such as the Department of Conservation, Ministry of Fisheries, Nukuhou Salt Marsh Care Group).

·            The meetings will also be publicly advertised so that members of the wider community can also attend.

·            The Bay of Plenty Regional Council Standing Orders will apply, except as varied by these Terms of Reference or unless the members of the Forum unanimously agree to vary those standing orders as they apply to the Forum.

·            The costs of meeting attendance lie where they fall. The exception to this is that a standard meeting fee will be provided for Tangata Whenua representation by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council.

·            The actions to give effect to the strategy itself and costs associated with reporting to the Forum are funded from within the budgets of participating councils.

Power to Act

To make all decisions necessary to fulfil the role and scope of the Forum subject to the limitations imposed.

The Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum has no delegated authority for financial expenditure.

Power to Recommend

The Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum recommends and reports back to the respective organisations.


Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum                               14 March 2023

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

Rārangi Take
Agenda

1.      Karakia Whakatuwhera
Opening Prayer

2.      Ngā Hōnea
Apologies

3.      Wāhanga Tūmatanui
Public Forum

4.      Ngā Take Tōmuri
Items not on the Agenda

5.      Raupapa o Ngā Take
Order of Business

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

7.      Ngā Meneti
Minutes

Previous Minutes – For Information Only

7.1      Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Minutes - 8 September 2022                    3

8.      Ngā Pūrongo
Reports

8.1      First Meeting Matters                               3

Attachment 1 - Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Terms of Reference                                    3

Attachment 2 - Adopted BOPRC Standing Orders                                                                       3

Hei Pānui Anake
Information Only

8.2      Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update                                                     3

Attachment 1 - Te rārangi wā - Timeline             3

Attachment 2 - DRAFT Engagement activities for Essential Freshwater Policy Programme 2023    3

8.3      Update on the Ohiwa Catchment freshwater fish barrier project                 3

8.4      Ohiwa Harbour Saltmarsh Condition 2021                                                                 3

Attachment 1 - Ohiwa Harbour Saltmarsh Condition 2021                                                        3

8.5      Update report on Awhi Mai Awhi Atu, Sustainable Seas National Science Challenge project, February 2023            3

8.6      Annual Work Programme report to 31 January 2023 and proposed work programme for 2023-24                           3

Attachment 1 - Ohiwa Harbour Strategy annual work programme results to 31 January 2023     3

Attachment 2 - Proposed Ohiwa Harbour Strategy annual work programme 2023-24        3

9.      Ngā Take Tōmuri Hei Whakaaroaro
Consideration of Items not on the Agenda

10.    Karakia Kati
Closing Prayer


 Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Minutes

8 September 2022

 

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing:             Thursday 8 September 2022, 9.30 am

Venue:                         Ōpōtiki District Council Chambers, 108 St John Street, Ōpōtiki

Heamana Tuarua

Deputy Chairperson:  Mayor Lyn Riesterer - Ōpōtiki District Council

Ngā Kopounga

Members:                    Cr Bill Clark, Alternate – Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana (BOPRC), Charlie Bluett - Te Runanga o Ngāti Awa, Trevor Ransfield - Te Upokorehe, Karen Mokomoko - Whakatōhea Māori Trust Board

Te Hunga i Tae Ake

In Attendance:            Pim de Monchy – Coastal Catchments Manager, Tim Senior – Land Management Officer, Gemma Moleta – Senior Planner, Water Policy (via Zoom), Reuben Gardiner – Senior Advisor, Toni Briggs – Senior Project Manager, Erin Fox – Environmental Scientist, Amanda Namana – Committee Advisor

                                   

                                                      External: Mike Jones – Department of Conservation, Ian Molony – Open Spaces Operations Manager, Whakatāne District Council

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies:                  Chair Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti – BOPRC, Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles – Whakatāne District Council (WDC), Cr Nándor Tánczos – Alternate, WDC  

 

1.     Karakia Whakatuwhera
Opening Karakia

A karakia was provided by Trevor Ransfield.

2.     Ngā Hōnea

Apologies

 

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Accepts the apologies from Cr Toil Kai Rākau Iti, Deputy Mayor Andrew Iles and Cr Nándor Tánczos tendered at the meeting.

Clark/Bluett

CARRIED

3.     Wāhanga Tūmatanui
Public Forum

3.1

Coral Reeve

 

Key Points:

·       Expressed concern from Ōhiwa residents over fireworks displays in the harbour, particularly from visitors during peak times.  These were set at the edge of the harbour and aimed out into the water, leaving behind rubbish and debris

·       Suggested a ban on fireworks in the harbour, except for managed council displays.

Key Points - Members:

·       Educating locals around environmental outcomes so they can pass knowledge onto visitors to the harbour was an option

·       Upokorehe supported finding further options for a solution to this issue.

 

Item for Staff Follow Up:

·       Regional Council staff to consider whether action could be taken due to the environmental consequences

·       Ōpōtiki District Council staff to look into the possibility of limiting fireworks displays to certain occasions e.g. Guy Fawkes and New Year’s Eve, or if there was an applicable bylaw to address the situation.

 

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

None declared.

5.     Ngā Meneti
Minutes

Kia Whakaūngia Ngā Meneti
Minutes to be Confirmed

5.1

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Minutes - 26 April 2022

 

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1      Confirms the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Minutes - 26 April 2022 as a true and correct record.

Riesterer/Bluett

CARRIED

 

6.     Whakahoutanga Kōrero
Verbal Updates

6.1

Chair and Host Verbal Update from Ōpōtiki District Council

Deputy Chair Mayor Lyn Riesterer provided a verbal update.

 

Key Points:

·       Acknowledged the work of retiring regional councillor Bill Clark and his special connection to the area

·       Drew members attention to the map of the Ōpōtiki District on the wall of Chambers and highlighted that 75% of the district was Department of Conservation land, and the district contained 50% of the Bay of Plenty coastline

·       Current growth was also attributed to a large economic push, including successful applications for the Provincial Growth Fund and post Covid-19 economic funding

·       In the current triennium, Ōpōtiki District Council had received the equivalent of $126M in funding, on behalf of the district

·       With the assistance of the Mayors Taskforce for Jobs, many rangatahi in the Ōpōtiki District were being placed in new jobs and careers:

o   In 2021/22 there were 55 new apprenticeships to date within 25 businesses

o   Over 100 people had been helped into new positions, with a 91% retention rate

o   Most of these positions were within the Primary Industries including mussel processing

o   The taskforce had been focused on the age range of under-30 years, and would expand in 2023 to include all ages

·       Highlighted the upcoming aquaculture industry abilities and possibilities within Ōpōtiki

·       Acknowledged the ongoing work of iwi/hapū over many years on their aspirations, for which the achievements benefitted the entire district

·       Focus in the upcoming triennium would be around housing and how climate change effects would be addressed to future-proof the community.

Key Points - Members:

·       Members also thanked Cr Clark for his years of involvement in the Forum and his mahi in planting and other contributions to achieving their goals.

 

7.     Ngā Pūrongo
Reports

Hei Pānui Anake
Information Only

7.1

2022 Local Government Elections Update

 

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, 2022 Local Government Elections Update.

Clark/Riesterer

CARRIED

 

 

7.2

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

Tabled Document 1 - Ōhiwa Harbour values, visions and environmental outcomes: Objective ID A4211015 

Presentation: Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update: Objective ID A4211024   

Senior Planner (Water Policy) Gemma Moleta presented this item (via Zoom).

Key Points:

·       Highlighted the draft policy options available within the Regional Policy Statement (RPS) and the Regional Natural Resources Plan (RNRP)

·       Outlined the shorter version first draft of values, visions and environmental outcomes that had been tabled to members - there would be opportunity for feedback before the end of 2022.  This document primarily evolved from the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy, reference to freshwater ecosystems had been added to ensure that all values present within the Freshwater Management Unit (FMU) were implicitly or explicitly covered.  A timeframe needed to be added, and potentially key goals to be met within the FMU.  Queried whether there were freshwater values missing that needed to be added

·       Engagement to date included eight contributions for Ōhiwa Harbour FMU which covered recreation, natural character, mahinga kai, fishing, animal drinking water supply, ecosystem health, traditional resources, taonga species, wāhi tapu, Te Mana o Te Wai (TMoTW) and culturally significant sites.  Concerns raised included mangrove control and implications, water quality, siltation, over-fishing, recreational activities disturbing bird species, freedom campers and lack of access for boating.

Key Points - Members:

·       Considered there was a great amount of involvement and expertise required in this mahi, and it was important that everyone was involved to gain the outcomes desired.  Noted that iwi/hapū also had members with more specialised knowledge in some of the subject matter, therefore a wide range of engagement was required to capture this

·       Input should be gained from the Forum as well as separately from iwi/hapū to capture all perspectives

·       Requested further information on when and how engagement with individual hapū would occur and that background information also be provided to them prior to visits

·       One way to look at reinvigorating an area or species in decline was the ability to implement fisheries management through establishing a rohe moana that enabled operating under kaimoana regulations.

In Response to Questions:

·       Feedback was not being sought at this meeting but members were requested to consider the tabled document for providing their thoughts to a future workshop

·       Tangata whenua engagement was expected to begin in October 2022

·       The Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy had been used as a baseline and tangata whenua were encouraged to provide further specifics and consider points such as freshwater values.  Consider whether freshwater was being treated purely to look after the harbour or if there were specific improvements that needed to be made in the freshwater bodies e.g. Nukuhou river

·       The green field in the table of the tabled document had ‘H’ and ‘M’ and ‘L’ to indicate high, medium and low values, where a question mark indicated that there was not enough information available to be certain whether these values existed in the harbour

·       There was a separate workstream on threatened fish species around the Bay of Plenty, of which there were several in Ōhiwa Harbour and staff would provide further information to a future meeting once available.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·       All environmental management policy and regulatory functions were not in the same place, therefore achieving integrated outcomes meant engaging separately with all the different providers.  Ensure that members were made aware of all options available and which parts of the environmental scope each related to.

 

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update.

[Mokomoko/Bluett]

[CARRIED]

 

10.27 am – The meeting adjourned.

 

10.49 am – The meeting resumed.

 

7.3

Review of the Bay of Plenty Regional Navigation Safety Bylaws

Presentation: Navigation Safety Bylaws Review: Objective ID A4209407

Senior Projects Manager Toni Briggs presented this item (via Zoom).

Key Points:

·       Outlined the significance of the review of the navigational safety bylaws, the impacts to Ōhiwa Harbour and the water activities therein

·       The fundamental premise of navigational safety bylaws was to ensure the safety of all participants on the water engaging in a wide range of activities

·       Many of the existing regulations were driven by previous significant safety events, both nationally and internationally

·       All regulation within the bylaws document needed to be for the purpose of ensuring maritime safety

·       The bylaws were reviewed every five years and were made up of wide ranging legislation, including the Civil Aviation Act 1990, as seaplanes also needed to heed the bylaws

·       Outlined the jurisdiction of the bylaws and the purpose of the Bay of Plenty Regional Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Committee

·       Legacy issues existed within the bylaws that continued to be challenging in managing particularly busy areas, including the use of jet skis in Ōhiwa Harbour

·       Currently jet skis were not allowed in most areas of the harbour – specific exclusion rules came into effect in 1998.  At the time, the bylaws came under the Local Government Act 1974 – since the Act was amended in 2004 and maritime rules were updated, some of the supporting legislation for this exclusion had been repealed

·       Under maritime rules, no vessel (including jet skis) could go more than five knots within 200m from shore

·       There were many avenues to provide feedback to the navigational safety bylaws review, which were still being considered.

Key Points - Members:

·       Raised the issue of drones used for fishing and other activities around the harbour, and whether these could be applicable to the bylaws

·       The current status needed to be maintained to first and foremost look after the food source.

Key Points – Pim de Monchy, Coastal Catchments Manager

·       The Forum could consider creating similar restrictions through the Regional Coastal Environment Plan (RCEP) on ecological and cultural grounds.  A submission to the Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Committee could include a request that if the change was made to the current jet ski restrictions in Ōhiwa Harbour, that it be phased over a period of time until the review of the RCEP, which would allow for replacement provisions to be included.

In Response to Questions:

·       The Harbourmaster held responsibility for the airspace over the water, therefore drone activity may be relevant

·       Where mussel spat lines were in place, the five knot speed limit would apply and there could be further conditions put in place around structures which would provide additional protection

·       The use of jet skis drove a complicated community debate as most people were either strongly for or against the issue

·       Although there was a substantial infringement fine, this relied upon people being caught breaching the bylaws

·       Turning education around to protection of the harbour and gaining community buy-in may be another solution to prevent breaches.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·    Consider alternative regulations and ways to protect the harbour outside of the bylaws - what other instruments, legislation and avenues were available to take to maintain the current status

·    Look into funding options for creating an brochure for Upokorehe kaitiaki monitors (consider summer tourism funding), similar to the pipi monitoring brochure, as this was a good option for educating people visiting the harbour.  These brochures and information could also been given out by the relevant councils and through visitor centres, campsites etc.

 

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

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

2       Writes a submission to the Bay of Plenty Regional Navigation Safety Bylaws Review Committee in opposition to any changes to current jet ski bylaws in Ōhiwa Harbour.

[Mokomoko/Ransfield]

[CARRIED]

 

 

7.4

Ōhiwa fish passage project

Presentation: Ōhiwa Fish Passage: Objective ID A4209405   

Environmental Scientist Erin Fox presented this item.

Key Points:

·       The project and purpose of alleviating barriers was taken from the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy

·       Outlined the lifecycle of eels and inanga, and that they used both saline and freshwater environments during different parts of their lifecycle

·       Approximately 70% of all New Zealand freshwater fish species were migratory, this percentage was higher in Ōhiwa Harbour

·       Highlighted fish passage barriers and the reasons they provided challenges to fish in a modified habitat.  There were a number of different factors that contributed to structures being difficult for fish to navigate

·       Explained the ways to increase stream connectivity for fish and mitigate these challenges

·       Outlined the key outcomes the project sought to achieve

·       554 potential barriers were identified in the Ōhiwa catchment, with a total of 370 sites surveyed so far and 107 of these confirmed as barriers to fish passage

·       Remediation options needed to find a balance between providing for the fish, whilst maintaining the structure

·       Monitoring fish and the effects of the remediations was achieved through trapping, electrofishing and spotlighting, all of which were resource intensive and put a level of strain of the fish.  eDNA was an upcoming resource to add to the fish monitoring toolbox

·       Outlined how eDNA worked, the outcomes of eDNA method trials and the process for sampling

·       eDNA sampling would be undertaken in 20 sites across the Ōhiwa catchment.

Key Points - Members:

·       Suggested an initiative for people to sponsor a fish remediation project to achieve quicker gains in this area.  Care Groups may also be interested in assisting with fish passage remediation.

In Response to Questions:

·       Square culverts were typically better for fish passage, although round culverts were less expensive

·       The remediations used were designed to be low cost solutions so that they could be applied at scale

·       Although trout ate native fish, the abundance of the population would need to be known in order to understand the impact of this

·       A potential fish care programme to cover the Bay of Plenty region did not receive funding through the last Long Term Plan and Regional Council had been turned down twice from the Ministry for the Environment Freshwater Improvement Fund

·       As remediations were relatively inexpensive, a large proportion could be completed within a few years if they were prioritised within the work programme.

 

Items for Staff Follow Up:

·       Investigate alternative ways to accelerate the remediation for fish passage work - explore options for funding the work e.g. Submissions to BayTrust, Annual Plans and any other appropriate means.

 

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, Ōhiwa fish passage project.

 Riesterer/Ransfield

CARRIED

 

 

7.5

Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy annual work programme report for the 2021-22 year

Presentation: Annual Work Programme Report to 30 June 2022: Objective ID A4209403   

Land Management Officer Tim Senior presented this item.

Key Points:

·       Provided highlights from the Ōhiwa catchment Progress Report Card

·       It would take time for any of the work undertaken to start showing up in water quality

·       It was important to remember that landowners contributed a similar amount of funding as Regional Council to this work

·       Showed a map of all areas where Regional Council environmental programmes were underway

·       Rabbits were a significant issue at Ōhope Spit, for which different methods of controlling them had been trialled

·       Moth plant was an issue of concern in the dunes and the care group had removed many of the seed pods to prevent further spread

·       A sign had been erected near where people parked to gather shellfish, to advise them of the significant bird nesting spot on the sand bar

·       Department of Conservation had erected a chain at Tokitoki Historic Reserve to discourage vehicles and campers, which was cut shortly after being installed

·       Provided an image of the new carpark for Onekawa Te Mawhai Regional Park

·       The Regional Council biosecurity team had undertaken trapping of Asian Paddle crabs and caught eight in comparison to nine in 2021, which suggested there was not currently a rapid invasion in the harbour

·       Kutarere works to address flooding issues had been undertaken by Waka Kotahi, Regional Council and Ōpōtiki District Council which appeared to be successful at this stage.  Although some flooding occurred, it dissipated quickly as the water now had somewhere to go. The BOPRC engineering team would carry out further investigations

·       Provided figures from the Land Cover Database about plantation forestry in the Ōhiwa catchment, but cautioned that the land use categories and data became more accurate over time

·       There were other options than bylaws for addressing the complaints of vehicles on beaches e.g. through the RCEP, but all rules and regulations had the common problem of being able to police them.

In Response to Questions:

·       Work had been undertaken in the past on what would happen in terms of sediment if the catchment had a large increase in forestry, although currently this did not appear to be the case.

 

Resolved

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy annual work programme report for the 2021-22 year.

Ransfield/Bluett

CARRIED

 

Closing Comments of the Triennium from Members and Contributors to the Forum:

·     Thanked fellow members, staff and all who contributed to the mahi of the Forum

·     The work to date in the Ōhiwa catchment was making a difference, which would continue to grow into a large improvement over time and return the catchment to its past beauty and abundance

·     The fish barrier work was very positive - looked forward to progress being made with the data captured through eDNA

·     Despite differences in perspectives, it was good to see people working well together towards a common cause.  Expressed optimism for the future of the Ōhiwa taonga

·     It was interesting to learn the many different components that came together and impacted upon the Forum, as well as the layers of council and government processes that needed to be worked through in order to achieve goals

·     Acknowledged that with the end of a triennium came potential change although the kaupapa remained the overarching purpose.  Every step achieved towards the goals made a difference – carry on the work because it is important.  With time came growth, and with growth came impact

·     Keeping with the tikanga of the harbour for the rohe, the kaitiakitanga within the harbour, and the resource management plans was important

·     Staff greatly enjoyed their work in and around the harbour and witnessed positive change over a long period of time.  Appreciated the opportunity to work in the social environment of the Forum, as well as the natural environment of Ōhiwa and contributing to make a difference.

8.     Karakia Kati
Closing Karakia

A karakia was provided by Trevor Ransfield.

12.52 pm – the meeting closed.

 

 

Confirmed 7 october 2022                                                         

                                                                                Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti

Chairperson, Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

 


 

 

 

Report To:

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

Meeting Date:

14 March 2023

Report Authoriser:

Yvonne Tatton, Governance Manager

 

 

First Meeting Matters

 

Executive Summary

This report informs the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum (the Forum) of first meeting matters for the 2022-2025 Triennium. This includes the election of a Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson for the three-year term of the Triennium. The report sets out the process to be used to conduct the election. Until a Chairperson has been appointed, Coastal Catchments Manager Pim de Monchy will open and chair the meeting.

The report also provides background on the Forum and seeks confirmation of the Forum’s membership, Terms of Reference and Standing Orders to be used for Forum meetings.

 

Recommendations

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, First Meeting Matters;

2       Selects System B as the voting system to elect the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson;

3       Elects ________________ as the Chairperson for the 2022-2025 Triennium;

4       Elects ________________ as the Deputy Chairperson for the 2022-2025 Triennium;

5       Notes The Forum’s Terms of Reference, attached as Appendix 1 to the report;

6       Notes the Standing Orders to be used for the conduct of its meetings, attached as Appendix 2, as adopted by the administrating authority (Bay of Plenty Regional Council) on 24 November 2022;

7       Confirms its membership:

·       Bay of Plenty Regional Council – Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti, Cr Malcolm Campbell (Alternate)

·       Ōpōtiki District Council – Cr Dean Peterson, Cr Steve Nelson (Alternate)

·       Whakatāne District Council – Cr Andrew Iles, Cr Nándor Tánczos (Alternate)

·       Whakatōhea – Karen Mokomoko

·       Upokorehe – Georgina Kohonui, Haami Aramoana (Alternate)

·       Ngāti Awa – Charlie Bluett, Tuwhakairiora O’Brien

·       Ngāi Tūhoe – Hori Hillman, Marewa Titoki (Alternate);

8       Confirms the following 2023 meeting date:

·       7 September 2023

·       Workshop and/or field trip dates to be confirmed as required.

 

1.      He Whakamārama
Background

1.1      Establishment of the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

The Forum was first formed in July 2007 by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council in conjunction with the Ōpōtiki District Council and Whakatāne District Council, following the approval of the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy (OHS). 

The development of the OHS was a joint project of the three local councils and local iwi: Te Upokorehe, Whakatōhea, Ngāti Awa and Ngāi Tūhoe. While the Forum’s formation was approved, a review of the terms of reference was needed and was subsequently updated in February 2010, prior to the Forum’s inaugural meeting taking place in May 2010. 

1.2      Purpose of Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

The role of the Forum is to oversee and monitor the implementation of the Strategy; receive reports progress of Strategy actions; and to make recommendations back to their respective organisations regarding the management of Ōhiwa Harbour and its catchment. Further information on the Forum’s responsibilities are outlined under the terms of reference (refer Appendix 1).

1.3      Terms of Reference

At Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s first meeting of the new triennium, held on 24 November 2022, Council adopted its governance structure including re-establishing the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum and its terms of reference. The same process occurred within Whakatāne District Council and Ōpōtiki District Council. The Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum is established as a non-statutory joint committee. 

The Forum can seek a change to the terms of reference by way of consensus and make a recommendation to the three Council partners to alter its terms of reference. All three Council partners must agree before any changes are implemented.

The Forum’s Terms of Reference are attached as Appendix 1 to the report for information.

1.4      Standing Orders

Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s Standing Orders are to be used for the operation and conduct of the Forum’s meetings, as set out under the Forum’s Terms of Reference. 

 

The Regional Council adopted new Standing Orders on 24 November 2022, based on Local Government New Zealand’s Standing Orders template which provide plain English wording where practicable, more clarity, further scope for moving and seconding amendments and inclusion of recent legislative changes affecting Standing Orders. 

 

These Standing Orders are attached as Appendix 2 to the report for information.

1.5      Administration and costs

Each Council is responsible for bearing the cost of their representation.

As the administering authority, costs involved with running Forum meetings (i.e. general administration, catering, venue) is borne by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council regardless of venue location. Where possible, all partner members have the opportunity to host Forum meetings on a rotational basis.  

Bay of Plenty Regional Council provides a meeting fee and mileage to iwi appointed representatives based on Council’s standard meeting fee rates. Currently, Council policy entitles only the appointed member or alternate member to claim a meeting fee.

2.      Election of a Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson

At the first meeting of the Triennium, the Forum must elect a Chairperson for the three year term. The process for how the Chairperson is elected is determined by Clause 24, Schedule 7, of the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA), which states; the acts of a local authority must be done, and the questions before the local authority must be decided at a meeting by –

(a)         vote; and

(b)         the majority of members that are present and voting.

 

2.1      Voting Systems

Under Clause 25, Schedule 7 of the LGA, when electing a Chairperson, a committee must resolve to use one of the following two voting systems: 

System A

(a)         requires that a person is elected or appointed if he or she receives the votes of a majority of the members of the local authority or committee present and voting; and

(b)         has the following characteristics:

(i)    there is a first round of voting for all candidates; and

(ii)   if no candidate is successful in that round there is a second round of voting from which the candidate with the fewest votes in the first round is excluded; and

(iii)  If no candidate is successful in the second round there is a third, and if necessary subsequent round of voting from which, each time, the candidate with the fewest votes in the previous round is excluded; and

(iv)  In any round of voting if two or more candidates tie for the lowest number of votes, the person excluded from the next round is resolved by lot.

System B

 

(a)         requires that a person is elected or appointed if he or she receives more votes than any other candidate; and

(b)         has the following characteristics:

(i)          there is only one round of voting; and

(ii)         if two or more candidates tie for the most votes, the tie is resolved by lot.

 

It is recommended that the Forum selects System B as its voting system.

 

2.2      The voting process step

a)          The Forum resolves to adopt a voting system and the procedure in the event of a tie.

b)          Nominations for Chairperson are called for (nominated and seconded).

c)          Nominees may be allowed up to 10 minutes to make a presentation.

d)          Voting for the election of the Chairperson as per agreed system.

e)          Chairperson declared elected and presides over the meeting.

 

In agreeing the voting process, ground rules need to also be agreed.

2.3      Ground rules

a)        A member may nominate or second themselves.

b)        Any member can call for a Division.

c)        Standing Orders apply – Divisions will be carried out with names called in random order.

d)        Any member can abstain from voting.

 

In the event of a tie between the highest (and/or lowest) polling candidates, the names of the candidates receiving an equal number of votes be put into a container and the candidate drawn out, by an independent person (such as the Chief Executive or Committee Advisor), is deemed to be elected.

 

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum Terms of Reference

Attachment 2 - Adopted BOPRC Standing Orders  

 


Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum                  14 March 2023

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Pūrongo Ki:
Report To:

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

Rā Hui:
Meeting Date:

14 March 2023

Kaituhi Pūrongo:
Report Writer:

Nicola Green, Principal Advisor, Policy & Planning and Michelle Lee, Planner (Water Policy)

Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo:
Report Authoriser:

Namouta Poutasi, General Manager, Strategy & Science

Kaupapa:
Purpose:

To update the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum on the engagement approach for the Essential Freshwater Policy Programme in 2023.

 

 

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

 

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

Toi Moana’s Essential Freshwater Policy Programme to implement the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 continues to progress according to the overarching timeline, although there is slippage. This year, the focus is primarily on continuing to involve tangata whenua, community engagement and also continuing to develop draft policy options.  The timeline to publicly notify proposed changes to the Regional Policy Statement and Regional Plan is December 2024. Tangata whenua involvement continues to be invited. Letters inviting consideration of draft policy issues and options were sent to iwi organisations late .

During February and March 2023, public awareness raising of upcoming engagement will be delivered through various forms of media, and at some community events in the region.

During April – September 2023 engagement will begin with three sub-regional hui around the region. This will be followed by 2-3 community workshops in each Freshwater Management Unit (FMU). Dates are in the draft calendar (in Attachment 2) but are not yet confirmed.

1.   Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum (OHIF) members are invited to advise on the approach to engagement, any potential clashes or issues associated with the draft engagement schedule, events or venues.

2.   The finalised engagement calendar will be shared with OHIF.

3.   Hui-a-rohe and community workshops will be advertised. Toi Moana staff encourage OHIF members to promote participation at relevant events.

4.  The draft copy of the Ōhiwa Harbour FMU freshwater engagement document will be circulated to OHIF members for feedback when ready.

 

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update.

 

1.      He Whakamārama
Background

The Essential Freshwater Policy Programme (EFPP) is Toi Moana - Bay of Plenty Regional Council’s work programme to implement the requirements of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPSFM) and review the Regional Natural Resources Plan (RNRP). Overall, the EFPP continues to be implemented according to Toi Moana’s agreed programme, although some parts are behind schedule.

Tight timeframes are necessary to achieve notification of freshwater changes to the Regional Policy Statement (RPS) & RNRP in 2024 as required by legislation. The timeline - Te rārangi wā is shown in Attachment 1. This year, the focus is primarily on continuing to involve tangata whenua, community engagement and continuing to develop draft policy options, prior to Toi Moana making decisions about what proposed changes to publicly notify in 2024.

This report provides an update on implementation progress most relevant to the Ōhiwa Harbour catchment.

 

2.      Implementation update

Letters inviting consideration of draft policy issues and options were sent to iwi organisations late last year. A briefing can be arranged if requested.

3.      Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

3.1      Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

There are no significant risks associated with this matter.

3.2      Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

 

3.3      Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Freshwater is a taonga for tangata whenua. The NPSFM clearly sets out increased expectation of the active involvement of tangata whenua in freshwater management, and provision for cultural values and mātauranga Māori. In the Ōhiwa Harbour FMU, there are some ongoing iwi initiated freshwater projects.

Toi Moana staff continue to invite and support iwi and hapū involvement to the extent they want to be involved or have capacity to be involved. The challenges of tangata whenua engagement will continue into 2023 and staff are maintaining a good faith approach to implementing the aspirations of the NPSFM.

Relevant key tangata whenua engagement activities include:

·     The engagement plan includes three hui-a-rohe. It is anticipated that Toi Moana Māori constituency councillors will provide leadership for these.

·     The engagement plan includes each FMU having at least one event at a kaupapa Māori related venue such as a kura, marae, trust board office. Suggestions are welcomed.

·     The draft dates for the engagement plan to be shared with tangata whenua via the Relationship Managers and the iwi/hapū contact lists.

·     Relationship Managers and the iwi/hapū contact lists are being used to distribute communications and material. These lists are continuously updated as required.

·     Work continues on establishing Kaupapa Māori EFPP projects.

·     EFPP updates to joint committees, co-governance committees and advisory groups.

·     All communications contain invitations to contact Toi Moana as a way to get involved in the freshwater work of Council.

 

3.4      Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

 

Toi Moana staff are preparing for public engagement throughout 2023. Tangata whenua engagement will continue to occur alongside the wider community engagement process for 2023.

During February and March, public awareness raising of the upcoming engagement will be delivered through various forms of media, and at some community events around the region.

Communication publications are being prepared for each FMU. The draft copy for the Ōhiwa Harbour FMU can be shared with OHIF members for feedback when it is ready.

The active engagement period will start in April until September 2023 and will begin with three sub-regional hui around the region. Followed by 2-3 workshops in each FMU. A draft calendar is provided in Attachment 2. This is subject to change until all potential event clashes are identified and venues are booked. This represents a large commitment for Toi Moana staff, which will stretch capacity, and yet still may not be as much engagement as some tangata whenua or wider community members would like.

Structure and content of the engagement events is yet to be developed. , and iwi are welcome to discuss or provide advice on the approach or potential venues.

 

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

NPSFM implementation is a non-discretionary Toi Moana function. This freshwater work will also assist with delivering on the objectives and policies in the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy.

3.6      Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

 

There are no financial implications for OHIF associated with this report. Engagement activities mentioned in this report fit within the Toi Moana EFPP allocated budget.

4.      Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

1.   OHIF members are invited to advise on the approach to engagement events, any potential clashes or issues associated with the draft engagement schedule, events or venues.

2.   The finalised engagement calendar will be shared with OHIF.

3.   Hui-a-rohe and community workshops will be advertised, and Toi Moana staff encourage OHIF members to promote participation at relevant events.

4.   The draft Ōhiwa Harbour FMU engagement document will be circulated to OHIF members for feedback when it becomes available.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Te rārangi wā - Timeline

Attachment 2 - DRAFT Engagement activities for Essential Freshwater Policy Programme 2023  

 


Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum                  14 March 2023

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Pūrongo Ki:
Report To:

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

Rā Hui:
Meeting Date:

14 March 2023

Kaituhi Pūrongo:
Report Writer:

Tim Senior, Land Management Officer

Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo:
Report Authoriser:

Chris Ingle, General Manager, Integrated Catchments

Kaupapa:
Purpose:

To update the Forum on progress with the Ōhiwa Catchment freshwater fish barrier project

 

 

Update on the Ohiwa Catchment freshwater fish barrier project

 

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

The Ōhiwa Fish Passage Project seeks to gain greater understanding of the distributions of indigenous fish species throughout the Ōhiwa catchment. A key goal of the project is to increase connectivity between streams and harbour by identifying and reducing any human induced barriers to fish movement. Following the identification of over 500 possible structures in the catchment by desktop mapping, half of these structures have been assessed and work is underway to complete the remaining assessments. Fish surveys at 22 locations have been carried out resulting in knowledge of the number and distribution of freshwater species. Structure assessments and fish surveys are being used to inform remediations of structures within the Ōhiwa catchment. The first round of structure remediations is scheduled to happen this year.

 

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, Update on the Ohiwa Catchment freshwater fish barrier project.

 

1.      He Whakamārama
Background

Many native fish species undertake significant migrations as part of their life cycle (e.g., shortfin eels, longfin eels, inanga, and smelt). Access between saltwater and freshwater for different stages of their life cycle is essential. Instream infrastructure, such as culverts, weirs, and dams, can delay or prevent fish movements. Overtime, this has resulted in a reduction in the distribution and abundance of some of our most iconic and valued freshwater species.

Action 1.10 in the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy addresses this issue and aims to develop a greater understanding of indigenous fish species and restore connectivity in the Ōhiwa catchment:

To understand the extent of instream barriers, desktop mapping was undertaken to identify potential instream structures across the whole of the Bay of Plenty Region. This work identified over 500 potential structures distributed throughout the Ōhiwa Catchment (Figure 1). This information is initially based on aerial imagery and then potential structures need to be ground-truthed and individually assessed to see how they may impact on fish communities. This desktop work formed a tangible starting point for the current project.

Figure 1. Locations of 554 potential barriers throughout the Ōhiwa Harbour Catchment that were identified through a desktop assessment.

 

 

2.      About the project

2.1      Project outcomes

The key outcomes that the Ōhiwa Fish Passage project seeks to achieve are:

1.   Increased knowledge about indigenous freshwater fish species and habitat in the streams that flow into the Ōhiwa Harbour.

2.   Increased instream connectivity throughout the Ōhiwa catchment, allowing for upstream and downstream migration of native fish species.

3.   Landowner education around native fish lifecycles and education of new structure requirements in the National Environmental Standards for Freshwater.

4.   Development of a ‘catchment-based fish passage model’ which could be adapted and replicated for future fish passage efforts and support in meeting requirements of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management.

2.2      Project steps

This Ōhiwa Fish Passage Project is a multiyear project and there are several key steps towards achieving the stated goals:

2.3      Instream structure assessments

The next round of structure assessments is underway. In the summer of 2021-2022, 370 sites were surveyed. This included 296 of the 554 desktop points and an additional 74 ‘new’ sites (not identified in the desktop survey but found onsite). The remaining points are being targeted in current works.

This first round of structure remediations is going to be undertaken this year. The structure remains intact but new components are added in order to reduce the impact the structure has on the movement of fish.

2.4      Fish surveys using environmental DNA

Genetic material is constantly shed by organisms through the loss of skin, hair, scales, fluids and faeces. By collecting up discarded DNA and sequencing it, you can gain a picture of plants and animals in a local area. In a riverine environment, this is achieved by simply filtering a volume of water in order to detect the species living instream.

Environmental DNA has been collected from 22 locations throughout the catchment (Figure 2). These samples were processed by a laboratory in Wellington. This sampling has identified a diverse range of freshwater fish species including: banded kokopu (Galaxias fasciatus), bluegilled bully (Gobiomorphus hubbsi), common smelt (Retropinna retropinna), crans bully (Gobiomorphus basalis), giant bully (Gobiomorphus gobioides), giant kokopu (Galaxias argenteus), inanga (Galaxias maculatus), koaro (Galaxias brevipinnis), longfin eel (Anguilla dieffenbachia), redfin bully (Gobiomorphus huttoni), shortfin eel (Anguilla australis), shortjaw kokopu (Galaxias postvectis), speckled longfin eel (Anguilla reinhardtii) and torrentfish (Cheimarrichthys fosteri).

Another interesting detection is that of kākahi or freshwater mussels (Echyridella menziesii), which can grow up to 11cm and are often found in fine sand or silt. The detections of kākaki likely warrant further investigation to ensure that the populations are viable.

Figure 2. Locations of 22 fish assessments carried out in the Ōhiwa Harbour Catchment.

3.      Summary

A project in the Ōhiwa Harbour Catchment focused on freshwater connectivity is underway and ongoing. Structure assessments in 2021/22 identified a number of barriers that may be impacting movement of fish. Further structure assessments and remediations of already identified barriers is being undertaken this year. Recent results from an extensive fish survey, have proved new knowledge of fish communities in the catchment and will feed into plans to improve instream connectivity.

 

4.      Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

4.1      Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

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

4.2      Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

4.3      Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Freshwater fish and tuna are taonga for Māori. This project aims to restore their habitat to increase their ability to migrate. Four local tangata whenua groups are represented on the Forum which sets the work programme of which this project is a part.

 

4.4      Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

 

Adobe Systems

CONSULT

Whakauiuia

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

 

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

This project fulfils one of the actions in the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy.

4.6      Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

 

 

5.      Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

This project will continue by retrofitting barriers to freshwater fish passage to allow for fish migration..

 

 


 

 

 

Pūrongo Ki:
Report To:

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

Rā Hui:
Meeting Date:

14 March 2023

Kaituhi Pūrongo:
Report Writer:

Lisa Bevan, Environmental Data Officer

Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo:
Report Authoriser:

Reuben Fraser, General Manager, Regulatory Services

Kaupapa:
Purpose:

To update the members on the saltmarsh survey undertaken in 2021 as part of the monitoring programme in accordance with the Ōhiwa Harbour Action 1.8.

 

 

Ohiwa Harbour Saltmarsh Condition 2021

 

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

Saltmarsh condition monitoring is a part of the comprehensive monitoring programme developed for Action 1.8 in the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy. Saltmarsh estuarine vegetation around Ōhiwa Harbour was assessed in 2021 for its condition and future threats.

This survey suggests that the condition of saltmarsh around Ōhiwa is stable and good as all sites bar one ranked as either having good or excellent condition.

There were, however, two issues of concern, one being a land owner who may be mowing saltmarsh and raupo outside their property boundary at one site and the second being the spread of an invasive weed, saltwater paspalum smothering saltmarsh vegetation at another site.

 

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, Ohiwa Harbour Saltmarsh Condition 2021.

 

1.      He Whakamārama
Background

Saltmarshes are a coastal wetlands that play a vital role in New Zealand’s ecosystems. They are habitat to some of New Zealand’s threatened species, provide a storm buffer, filter nutrients and provide fish spawning habitat. Monitoring of Ōhiwa Harbour’s saltmarsh at five yearly intervals became a part of the Strategy’s comprehensive monitoring programme with the first survey in 2014 under action 1.8 “Monitor and assess the health of Ōhiwa Harbour and its catchment.” This report outlines the findings from the 2021 survey and comparison to the previous survey in 2014.

A total of 34 sites with saltmarsh vegetation were visited and scored using a rapid approach (Coordinate Monitoring of New Zealand Wetlands) that used indicators as evidence of condition and potential future pressures. Google earth aerial photography was also used to spot notable changes between the surveys.

The full survey report is appended to this report.

 

2.      Key Findings

Minimal changes have occurred between the 2014 and 2021 surveys indicating the overall condition of saltmarsh in Ōhiwa Harbour is stable. All sites, except one, scored as having either good or excellent condition. One site was in a moderate condition and one site had a change in condition ranking from moderate to good.

Changes that did occur appear to be specific to individual sites. There were several improvements as four sites previously damaged by grazing had made some recovery and there was additional pest control at two sites.

There were, however, negative impacts at two sites. Although these impacts are not large they require attention and recommendations have been made to address them.

A small loss (about 360m2) occurred at one site, Stipa, where native vegetation of saltmarsh and raupo appears to have been mown in front, and outside, of a private property. While the loss is not large the area has been identified as important marshbird habitat.

Of the invasive weeds, saltwater paspalum was found to have noticeably spread (covering a small area of about 960m2) at one site, Tunanui (next to Burma Rd) and dominating an area that was previously sea couch and oioi. All other sites, that previously were identified as having the invasive weeds sea couch and saltwater paspalum, appeared to have similar levels of cover for these species compared to the 2014 survey. Saltwater paspalum can smother large areas altering waterways, excluding burrowing fauna and native species and reduce the amount of marshbird habitat. Saltwater paspalum is also easily spread via fragments.

3.      Conclusions and recommendations

All sites, except one, scored as having either good or excellent condition suggesting the condition of saltmarsh around Ōhiwa Harbour is good. Minimal changes since the previous survey also suggest the condition of saltmarsh is stable.

It is recommended that measures are taken to educate the public about the importance of saltmarsh to prevent further loss and damage as well as discouraging access to and trampling of saltmarsh.

It is recommended that the landowner at Stipa be approached by Bay of Plenty Regional Council land management staff to stop the mowing of saltmarsh and raupo as well as bring the importance of saltmarsh to their attention. Land management staff can escalate to compliance staff if required. It is thought the native vegetation is likely to return on its own after mowing stops.

The extent of saltwater paspalum at Tunanui should be mapped in future surveys to monitor the rate of spread and management or eradication options explored.

4.      Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

4.1      Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

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

4.2      Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

 

4.3      Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Ōhiwa Harbour and its remaining natural saltmarsh and the species that live in it are recognised as a very significant place for tangata whenua. Tangata whenua are already engaged in the work programme that requires this survey. As always the tangata whenua partners of the Strategy are welcome to be a part of future surveys.

 

4.4      Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

 

Adobe Systems

INFORM

Whakamōhio

To provide affected communities with balanced and objective information to assist them in understanding the problems, alternatives and/or solutions.

 

 

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

This report details monitoring in accordance with the actions of the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy

4.6      Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

 

5.      Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

It is important that the saltmarsh survey continues as the survey provides valuable information of the state of saltmarsh and overall health of the estuarine margin habitat that support many important ecological functions. The Forum are informed of any threats and impacts to saltmarsh and possible mitigation methods.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Ohiwa Harbour Saltmarsh Condition 2021  

 


Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum                  14 March 2023

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Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum                  14 March 2023

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Pūrongo Ki:
Report To:

Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum

Rā Hui:
Meeting Date:

14 March 2023

Kaituhi Pūrongo:
Report Writer:

Tim Senior, Land Management Officer

Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo:
Report Authoriser:

Chris Ingle, General Manager, Integrated Catchments

Kaupapa:
Purpose:

To update the Forum on the work undertaken to Implement the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy actions since July 2022 and to seek endorsement of the proposed 2022/23 work programme.

 

 

Annual Work Programme report to 31 January 2023 and proposed work programme for 2023-24

 

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

This report provides an update of the work carried out under the 2022-23 Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy annual work programme from July 2022 to February 2023. Much of the work is on-going in nature and contributes to a long term vision for the harbour. Further progress has been made in the areas of water quality, freshwater fish and tuna, kaimoana research and support for Upokorehe kaitiaki. The report also includes a proposed work programme for the next financial year, 2023-24, and seeks the endorsement of the Forum for this. Members are also asked to provide guidance on topics for a proposed informal workshop.

 

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum:

1       Receives the report, Annual Work Programme report to 31 January 2023 and proposed work programme for 2023-24;

2       Endorses the proposed annual work programme 2023-24.

 

1.      He Whakamārama
Background

The Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy (the Strategy) covers the Ōhiwa Harbour and its land catchment area. It is a non-statutory document that was prepared by the Strategy partners: Whakatāne District Council (WDC), Ōpōtiki District Council (ODC), Ngati Awa, Te Upokorehe, Whakatōhea, Te Waimana Kaaku, and Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC). The Strategy was adopted in 2008 and was refreshed in 2016. 

Planning and coordination of the operational work of the Strategy is overseen by the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy Coordination Group (OHSCG) at which all partners are represented.

The work programme for the coming year is presented to the Forum for endorsement prior to the beginning of the new financial year, usually in March, while results for the previous year are reported every September. A work programme update is also provided. This report is also presented to the Bay of Plenty Regional Council. 

Funding for the delivery of this work comes from the existing budgets of the strategy partners. An extra contribution from BOPRC of $50,000 per year covers the deliverables that are not the direct responsibility of any of the other 6 partners. Landowners and community groups also make a substantial contribution, either in cash or in kind, to many of the actions.

The deliverables of each annual work programme are based on the higher level actions contained in the Strategy. Most of these actions are of an ongoing nature.

 

 

2.      Progress on key deliverables July 2022 to February 2022

A table briefly detailing the work done against the deliverables in the annual work programme can be found in Appendix 1. Below is a summary of the more significant aspects of that work.

 

2.1      Actions 1.1 and 1.2, water quality

One further Fonterra Farm Environment Plan has been prepared bringing the total completed in the catchment to 12. There are 20 dairy farms, 19 of which are Fonterra suppliers.

14 properties currently have BOPRC Environmental Programmes in progress. On these properties work scheduled for completion this financial year include:

·     17km of waterway fencing

·     25ha protected from stock

·     13ha planted with 30,000 plants

BOPRC is now in the third year of extra grant funding from the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) Public Waterways and Ecological Restoration Fund over and above BOPRC’s funding. This has provided 50% funding for a total of 73kms of waterway fencing to date.

2.2      Action 1.4, farm stewardship

A meeting of Ōhiwa farmers was recently held at the Nukuhou Hall with about 30 people in attendance. The new regulations and timelines were explained, along with the support available to farmers. We are also hopeful that this may lead to the formation of a farmers catchment group, with the aim of farmers working together towards better environmental management and having the numbers to be able apply for further support.

2.3      Action 1.5, mangrove management

Managing the spread of mangroves in the harbour began in 2011 after a resource consent to do so was granted to Upokorehe. After its expiry in 2020, work was able to continue as a permitted activity under the revised Regional Coastal Environment Plan. All work had to cease however after a High Court decision based on the new freshwater regulations. MfE have recently amended the regulations which means that work can resume. Discussions about how to go about this will be held with Upokorehe and other interested parties soon.

2.4      Action 1.10, freshwater fish

Assessment of the outstanding 184 potential barriers to fish migration is currently being completed. Environmental DNA tests have been carried out at 22 sites in the catchment. This is covered in more detail elsewhere in this agenda.

2.5      Action 1.14, bylaws

Phase 2 of consultation on the BOPRC navigation safety bylaw review is now underway. This is open to interested stakeholders until June. Formal consultation begins in July.

2.6      Action 2.1, kaimoana

Sea star trapping trials have been conducted. A prototype seastar collagen skin care product has been developed by Dr’s Matt Miller and Mathew Cumming. The mussel restoration investigation will be completed this winter. A seastar management plan has been developed. These developments will be covered in more detail by Kura Paul-Burke elsewhere in this agenda.

2.7      Action 3.2, cultural heritage

A set of bi-lingual interpretation panels describing the history of Onekawa Te Mawhai Regional Park are in development. It is hoped that these will be installed in the next few months.

2.8      Action 3.3, kaitiakitanga

Up to 25 Upokorehe volunteer kaitiaki regularly patrol the Whangakopikopiko pipi bed and surrounding areas over the summer and long weekends with the aim of ensuring pipi harvesting rules and local bylaws are followed and nearby shorebird breeding habitat and waahi tapu are protected. BOPRC has agreed to provide funding support through their care group programme for the kaitiaki to help pay for their equipment. A large sign has been erected asking people to keep away from the sand islet which is an important shore breeding site.

2.9      Action 3.6, communications

The Ōhiwa website has still not been released as approval has not been forthcoming from some partners.

3.      Proposed 2023-24 annual work programme

Many of the strategy actions are, by their nature, ongoing. This is reflected in many of the work programme deliverables being repeated each year. However the programme also needs to respond to changing circumstances and needs.

The full proposed work programme for next year can be found in Appendix 2. Some of the more significant pieces of work planned for the year are:

·     Continuing the work with landowners in the catchment to reduce the sediment and other contaminant loads entering the harbour.

·     Completing the assessment of the Nukuhou River bank erosion and possible solutions to it by a river engineer.

·     Complete the fish passage barrier survey, carry out further eDNA surveys and begin the retrofitting of identified barriers.

·     Re-instate the mangrove management programme

·     Continue to support the Awhi Mai Awhi Atu kaimoana research project.

The Forum members are asked to endorse this proposed work programme and to provide guidance on any changes that should be made to it.

4.      Workshop/field trip for 2023

In recent years, the Forum, in conjunction with the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy Coordination Group, held a workshop during the winter. The Forum members are asked to consider whether one should be held this year and if so, what topics could be covered. One possibility is to discuss the meeting structure for the year and whether this could be refined.

5.      Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

5.1      Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

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

5.2      Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

5.3      Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

As committed kaitiaki of the harbour and partners to the strategy, the four tangata whenua partners were fully engaged in both the development of the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy, its refresh in 2016 and its continued implementation. Their mana whenua and mana moana is a cornerstone of the strategy and is the basis of many of the strategy actions. Individual tangata whenua representatives are regularly consulted with regarding many aspects of the work and staff from the councils engage iwi and hapū hui.

5.4      Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

 

Adobe Systems

INVOLVE

Whakaura

To work directly with affected communities throughout the process to ensure that their issues and concerns are consistently understood and fully considered in Council’s decision making.

 

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

This report details work towards implementing the actions of the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy.

5.6      Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

6.      Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

The annual work programme will continue to implement the actions of the Ōhiwa Harbour Strategy.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Ohiwa Harbour Strategy annual work programme results to 31 January 2023

Attachment 2 - Proposed Ohiwa Harbour Strategy annual work programme 2023-24  

 


Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum                  14 March 2023

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Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum                  14 March 2023

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