Agenda of Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group

Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group Rārangi Take (Agenda)

NOTICE IS GIVEN that the next meeting of the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group will be held in the Bay of Plenty Regional Council Office, Waiariki Room, Corner Fenton & Pukaki Street, Rotorua and via Zoom (Audio Visual Meeting) on:

Friday 22 September 2023 COMMENCING AT 9:30 am

This meeting will be livestreamed and recorded.

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

Bay of Plenty Regional Council,

Rotorua Lakes Council and

Te Arawa Lakes Trust.

Working as one to protect our lakes with funding

assistance from the Ministry for the Environment

Fiona McTavish

Chief Executive, Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group

14 September 2023

Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group

Membership

Poū Tākiwaiora (Independent Chairperson)	Arapeta Tahana
Deputy Chairperson (Appointed by Group)	Cr Kevin Winters (Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana)
Members
Two representatives from each of the partner Councils one of whom must be the Chair/Mayor:
Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana	Chairman Doug Leeder Cr Te Taru White (Alternate)
Rotorua Lakes Council	Mayor Tania Tapsell Cr Gregg Brown Phill Thomass (Lakes Community Board) (Alternate)
Governance representatives from Te Arawa Lakes Trust	Nuki Nicholson Mariana Te Rangi Rangitihi Pene (Alternate) Georgina Whata (Alternate)
Observer from the Ministry for the Environment	Lorena Stephen (Director of Sustainable Land Use Delivery)
Quorum	One appointed member from each of the partner organisations
Meeting frequency	Quarterly

Purpose

To contribute to the promotion of the sustainable management of the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes and their catchments, for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations, while recognising and providing for the traditional relationship of Te Arawa with their ancestral lakes.

Role

· Provide leadership to the organisations and the community in relation to implementation of the Vision and Strategy for the Lakes of the Rotorua District originally adopted in 2000 and refreshed version adopted by the Strategy Group in 2013.

· Identify significant existing and emerging issues affecting the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes and respond appropriately.

· Approve, monitor, evaluate, and review agreements, policies and strategies and all other proposals to achieve integrated outcomes for the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes.

· Identify, monitor, and evaluate necessary actions by the partner organisations and other relevant organisations.

· Receive reports on activities being undertaken by the partner organisations and other relevant organisations.

· Participate in the preparation of statutory plans in relation to significant issues. Such plans include but are not limited to Iwi and hapū management plans, district and regional plans, reserve management plans and annual plans.

· Participate in applications for activities in relation to significant issues not addressed by existing policies of the partner organisations. Such activities include but are not limited to resource consents, designations, heritage orders, water conservation orders, restricting access to the lakes (during special events or in particular circumstances), and transferring and/or delegating of statutory authority.

Strategy Group Procedures

The Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group is a permanent joint committee established under the Te Arawa Lakes Settlement Act 2006 (Te Arawa Lakes Deed of Settlement - Cultural Redress: Lakes Management and Relationships, clauses 9.1 to 9.3 - December 2004) and is not disestablished as a consequence of a Local Government election.

The Group’s Terms of Reference are derived from the Rotorua Lakes Strategy Agreement included in Part 1 of the Relationship Schedule to the Deed of Settlement, December 2004.

Meanings:

“Organisations” means the Te Arawa Lakes Trust, the Rotorua Lakes Council, and the
Bay of Plenty Regional Council; sometimes referred to as “Partner Organisations”.

“Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes” means Lakes Rotorua, Rotoiti, Rotoehu, Rotomā, Ōkataina, Tikitapu, Ōkāreka, Tarawera, Rotomahana, Rerewhakaaitu, Ōkaro.

“Group” means the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group, formed as a Joint Committee under Clause 30 of Schedule 7 of the Local Government Act 2002; sometimes referred to as the “Strategy Group”.

Membership

· The non-voting Poū Tākiwaiora (Independent Chairperson) is appointed by the members for a three year term in alignment with the Local Government triennium and is to be reviewed and confirmed at the first meeting of the Group following the Local Government elections.

· The Poū Tākiwaiora is not deemed to be a member of the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group for the purposes of a quorum.

· The Poū Tākiwaiora shall assume the role and responsibilities as defined in the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group Poū Tākiwaiora Guidelines.

· The Deputy Chairperson shall be appointed from the membership at the first meeting of the Group following the Local Government elections.

Quorum

The special quorum for a meeting of the Group will be four members of the Group.

In the event that the ordinary quorum is not satisfied at three consecutive meetings of the Group in circumstances, where in the case of each such meeting:

· It was notified in accordance with the Standing Orders;

· Order papers were sent to each member of the Group in accordance with the Standing Orders; and

· The meeting had not been cancelled for any reason, then the members in attendance may declare the third meeting inquorate according to the Standing Orders and the special quorum will then be substituted.

At any subsequent meeting, the ordinary quorum will be restored.

No matters that were not on the order paper for the meeting at which the special quorum was established can be considered by a special quorum meeting.

Power to Act

To make all decisions necessary to fulfil the role of the Strategy Group subject to the limitations imposed.

Each Council participating in a joint initiative will fund its own proportion of that joint initiative as determined by the Joint Committee.

Power to Recommend

To the partner organisations on any matters within the Strategy Group’s delegated functions as it deems appropriate.

The Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group report directly to their respective organisations.

Recording of Meetings

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

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

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

Please note that the live streaming of the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group hui will be dependent on the location and availability of Wi-Fi/Technology to facilitate live-streaming.

Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group Minutes

23 June 2023

Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing: Friday 23 June 2023, 9:30 am

Venue: Rotorua Lakes Council, Council Chambers, 1061 Haupapa Street, Rotorua and via Zoom (Audio Visual Meeting)

Pou Tākiwaiora

Independent Chair: Arapeta Tahana

Heamana Tuarua

Deputy Chairperson: Cr Kevin Winters - Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana (BOPRC)

Ngā Kopounga

Members: Te Arawa Lakes Trust (TALT)

Nuki Nicholson; Rangitihi Pene

Rotorua Lakes Council (RLC)

Mayor Tania Tapsell (via Zoom); Cr Gregg Brown; Phill Thomass – Lakes Community Board Chair (Alternate)

Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana (BOPRC)

Chairman Doug Leeder; Cr Te Taru White (Alternate)

Ministry for the Environment (MfE)

Observer Lorena Stephen - Director, Investments, Policy, Implementation and Delivery (via Zoom)

Te Hunga i Tae Ake

In Attendance: TALT: Haimona Te Nahu – Interim Environmental Manager; Soweeta Fort-D'Ath - Lakes Programme Coordinator; Mariana Te Rangi - Environment Specialist

RLC: Stavros Michael – Deputy Chief Executive Environmental and Infrastructure Solutions; Damon Mathfield - Principal Strategic Advisor – Urban Development (via Zoom)

BOPRC: Cr Lyall Thurston; Chris Ingle – General Manager, Integrated Catchments; Helen Creagh – Rotorua Catchments Manager; Rosemary Cross - Senior Projects Manager – Rotorua; Julie Bevan – Policy and Planning Manager; Gemma Moleta – Senior Planner (Water Policy); Esther Coenen – Communications Advisor (via Zoom); Merinda Pansegrouw – Committee Advisor

MfE: Juscinta Grace – Manager, Funds; Mark Witehira - Manager - Treaty Settlement and Partnerships (via Zoom)

Tarawera Collective Impact Team (TCIP): Tamihana Hamiora-Reweti; Harina Rupapera and Nicole Hunt.

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies: Georgina Whata (TALT) and Roana Bennett (TALT)

Declaration of Public Recording

Committee members and the public were reminded that the meeting was being recorded and would be made available on the Bay of Plenty Regional Council website following the meeting and archived for a period of three years: Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group hui - 23 June 2023 - YouTube

1. Karakia Whakatuwhera
Opening Karakia

A karakia was provided by Arapeta Tahana.

2. Ngā Hōnea
Apologies

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1 Accepts the apologies from Georgina Whata and Roana Bennett tendered at the meeting.

Leeder/Winters

CARRIED

3. Ngā Take Tōmuri
Items not on the Agenda

3.1

Letter from Hon David Parker, Minister for the Environment dated 11 May 2023

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1 Receives the letter addressed to the Strategy Group from Hon David Parker, Minister for the Environment dated 11 May 2023 for inclusion on this agenda as it relates to an action from the previous Strategy Group meeting held on 21 April 2023, and acknowledges the urgent need for the Strategy Group to discuss the next steps/respond to the letter.

Leeder/Winters

CARRIED

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

None

5. Raupapa o Ngā Take
Order of Business

At the request of TALT Interim Environmental Manager, Haimona Te Nahu item 7.5, “Verbal update on progress with the Review Process” was considered before item 7.4, “Progress on the Lake Rotorua Incentives Scheme”.

6. Ngā Meneti
Minutes

Kia Whakaūngia Ngā Meneti
Minutes to be Confirmed

6.1

Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group Minutes - 21 April 2023

Matters Arising

· In relation to Minute Item 6.2 “Scoping Paper for the review of the Strategy Group Terms of Reference”, noted that progress would be reported under item 7.5, “Verbal update on progress with the Review Process”

· In relation to Minute Item 6.5 “Te Arawa Lakes Trust Update”, noted that extension of the Mauri Tu Mauri Ora - Jobs for Nature contract would continue until June 2024 as the funding had been approved.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1 Confirms the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group Minutes - 21 April 2023 as a true and correct record.

Nicholson/Brown

CARRIED

7. Ngā Pūrongo
Reports

Ngā Whakatau e Hiahiatia Ana
Decisions Required

7.1	Management of risk associated with the impact of climate change on lake levels Tabled Document 1 - Ngati Pikiao Koeke Council of Elders Resolution Flood Gates Operation - 23 June 2023: Objective ID A4405102 Tabled Document 2 - Tamati Coffey, Labour List MP Letter to Lakes Strategy Group - 23 June 2023: Objective ID A4405099 Tabled Document 3 - Lake Rotoma - Rotoehu Summary of Questions and Answers following Public Meeting: Objective ID A4410831
	Joint report presented by: Stavros Michael, Deputy Chief Executive Environmental and Infrastructure Solutions - Rotorua Lakes Council and Chris Ingle, General Manager, Integrated Catchments - Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana. This item was circulated under separate cover. The following letters were tabled at the meeting for the information of members: • Letter from Ngāti Pikiao Koeke Council of Elders Resolution Flood Gates Operation – dated 13 June 2023 • Letter from Tamati Coffey, Labour List MP Letter to Lakes Strategy Group – dated 19 June 2023. Key Points: · Te Arawa Lakes catchments had experienced two to three times the historic average monthly rainfall - rainfall had been significant and consistent · Advised of the issues faced by Rotomā, Rotoehu and Rotorua residents due to current high lake levels · Expected that extreme whether events would become more frequent with climate change and so would the risks and effects of high lake levels · Proposed the establishment of a working group to collaboratively investigate and advise on a long-term approach to managing the risk of high lake levels in the Rotomā, Rotoehu and Rotorua lake catchments. Key Points - Members: · As a result of the ground being completely saturated following the consistent rain, it was important for the Working Group to also look into infrastructure around stormwater · Suggested a sub-working group/taskforce to look into solutions for Rotomā, Rotoehu · Emphasised that the membership of the working group should include partners, iwi, community and stakeholders · Was critical not to create false expectations; approach should be both pragmatic and realistic (planning decisions regarding the natural environment had been made over multiple generations/decades) · Acknowledged the significant impact on the well-being of the community · Recognised that high lake levels would also result in high costs for infrastructure repair; there would also be an impact on traditional/cultural land as well as land development/tourism · Supported the collective approach to recognising the risk/planning collectively for the future · Stressed the importance of the scope for the working group to be within Councils’ statutory duties - to take action/minimise/prevent damage and to consider a range of options that were feasible/viable · Needed to consider what would be required for significant infrastructure investment: not only fixing current damage, but also addressing future needs (flood control systems) · Working group to consider its terms of reference/membership/ participation and contribution by expertise. Key Point - Staff: · Confirmed that the working group would consist of a mixture of strategic thinkers/planners and engineers/technical expertise.
	Item for Staff Follow Up: · Summary document of questions and answers following the public meeting with Rotomā/Rotoehu Residents regarding High Lake Levels to be circulated to Strategy Group members and also to be attached to the minutes for the information of members of the public.
	Resolved That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group: 1. Receives the report, ‘Management of risk associated with the impact of climate change on lake levels’; 2. Notes the impacts and effects that weather patterns and resultant high lakes levels are currently having on the community and that climate change is likely to make these impacts and effects more acute; 3. Directs staff in the partner organisations to continue to work collaboratively and to extend responsive practical assistance to the affected communities; 4. Requests that the partner organisations form a working group with urgency (consisting of partners, iwi, community & stakeholders) to scope foreseeable climate change effects on lake levels, explore a possible range of interventions and based on multi-criteria assessment arrive at recommendations supported by cost-benefit rationale that help develop adaptation options for the Te Arawa lakes communities; 5. Instructs relevant officers from the partner organisations to report regularly through this forum on progress against recommendation 4; and 6. Receives the following tabled letters addressed to the Strategy Group: · Letter from Ngāti Pikiao Koeke Council of Elders Resolution Flood Gates Operation dated 13 June 2023 · Letter from Tamati Coffey, Labour List MP dated 19 June 2023. Winters/Brown CARRIED

Whakaaturanga
Presentations

7.2

Draft Future Development Strategy - Te Tuhinga Hukihuki o te Rautaki Whakawhanake i te Āpōpō o Rotorua

Presentation Rotorua Future Development Strategy_Damon Mathfield PDF: Objective ID A4415060

Presented by: Damon Mathfield, Principal Strategic Advisor, Urban Development, Rotorua Lakes Council (via Zoom).

Key Points:

· Purpose of Rotorua Future Development Strategy (FDS): to assess the demand for housing and business land in the urban environment, and develop sufficient capacity to meet demand in its district in the short, medium, and long term

· Was about how we managed change in our urban environment, set direction and aligned with the national guidance/guide evaluation of growth options

· Four Distinct scenarios had been developed

· Framework developed to assess spatial locations and spatial scenarios

· Draft Rotorua Future Development Strategy | Let's talk | Kōrero mai (rotorualakescouncil.nz)

· FDS process going forward: consultation was open from 1 June to 14 July 2023.

Key Points - Members:

· Was interested to understand the impact of the FDS on the natural environment. Noted that “no-go areas” that would have an impact had been eliminated immediately (these included natural hazards as well as areas that required protection); a multi criteria analysis had also been applied to consider development impact on land

· Expressed concern about the impact on stormwater management (TALT was currently awaiting the outcome of a legislative review process to be finalised before continuing with consenting processes so was unable to comment)

· TALT believed that the engagement process with hapū/iwi had been insufficient; had consequently offered to assist with this process

· TALT felt that it had not had the opportunity to be directly involved in the development of the FDS – would have preferred to be directly involved in the drafting.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1. Receives the presentation, Draft Future Development Strategy - Te Tuhinga Hukihuki o te Rautaki Whakawhanake i te Āpōpō o Rotorua.

Pene/Brown

CARRIED

7.3

Introducing the Tarawera Collective Impact Project Team

Presentation Tarawera Collective Impact Project Team - 23 June 2023: Objective ID A4415146

Presented by the following members of the Tarawera Collective Impact Project Team: Tamihana Hamiora-Reweti Pou Hononga Taiao (Community Connector); Harina Rupapera - Pou Hononga Taiao (Community Connector) and Nicole Hunt - Data Analysis/Insights (Communications Support).

Key Points:

· Acknowledged the mahi by Elva Conroy, Te Arawa Lakes Trust Contractor and Tarawera Collective Impact Project Co-ordinator in establishing the collective impact framework for the Tarawera Lakes System and the Tarawera Collective Impact Project Team

· Elaborated on the “dream” – long-term collective, proactive action for the health and wellbeing of Lake Tarawera and its seven contributing lakes

· Connecting, providing support and opportunities to empower Tarawera Iwi, Māori Land Trusts, community and organisations working for the health and wellbeing of the Tarawera Lakes System

· Highlighted project outcomes

· Presented the focus for 2023.

Key Points - Members:

· Acknowledged and thanked Tarawera Collective Impact Project Team for their mahi and commitment

· Noted that the MfE Freshwater Funding for the Tarawera Collective Impact Project spanned over a period of two years.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1 Receives the report, Introducing the Tarawera Collective Impact Project Team.

Winters/Brown

CARRIED

7.4

Verbal update on progress with the Review Process

Presented by: Haimona Te Nahu – Interim Environmental Manager – Te Arawa Lakes Trust.

Key Points:

· TALT had appointed Lana Ngawhika (Te Arawa/Tūhoe), who would be conducting the independent review of the Strategy Group’s Terms of Reference

· Completion of the review process had initially been planned for December 2023; however, with the conclusion of Lana Ngawhika’s appointment in June 2023, she had requested a two month extension of the review process.

Key Points - Members:

· Noted that surveillance of Rotorua Lakes had commenced for the invasive Asian freshwater clam which was recently discovered in the Waikato. Preventing the freshwater gold clam from entering the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes was a critical priority

· Noted that MfE representatives would liaise with Ministry for Primary Industries to follow up on the status of action from a biosecurity point of view.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1 Receives the report, “Verbal update on progress with the Review Process”.

Winters/Brown

CARRIED

10:45am - The meeting adjourned.

11:08am - The meeting reconvened.

Hei Pānui Anake
Information Only

7.5

Progress on the Lake Rotorua Incentives Scheme

Presentation Progress on the Incentives Scheme: Objective ID A4415215

Presented by: Rosemary Cross, Senior Projects Manager - Rotorua Catchments.

Key Points:

· Lake Rotorua Incentives Scheme was a component of the Integrated Framework for the restoration of Lake Rotorua and had been tasked with permanently removing 100 tonnes of nitrogen from Lake Rotorua

· To date 35 tonnes had been secured, with another 2 tonnes pending

· Staff were confident that 50 tonnes nitrogen per year of the 100 tonnes nitrogen per year target could be achieved before the 2032 target, as required by the Regional Policy Statement

· Possible next steps:

o Extending the Scheme timeframe

o Increasing the price paid per kg of nitrogen

o Acquiring multiple dairy farms for conversion to a lower nitrogen leaching alternative

o Consideration of further regulation to achieve the target; or a combination of the above.

Key Points - Members:

· Expressed concern as to how the 50 tonnes target would be achieved in the next few years since it was not immediately clear where the additional 50 tonnes might come from and that the current process would not achieve the desired/targeted outcomes

· Barriers to achieving the goals/making progress were real but needed to be resolved

· Acknowledged the amount of work that had been undertaken to date

· Recognised the uncertainty for the agricultural sector

· With reference to the letter from Hon Minister David Parker dated 11 May 2023 (Incentive Scheme to be reimbursed from June 2023), questioned the urgency as the immediate plan/report indicated that there was no urgency for these funds. Highlighted that the consequences of the decision by the Minister would be severely felt by the Rotorua community

· Stressed the importance of having a plan to deliver

· Reaffirmed commitment to improve the lakes’ water quality

· TALT, as part of the Strategy Group Terms of Reference Review process, to also review the Land Incentive Scheme and possible improvements in terms of delivery - for the Group to collectively agree on.

Key Points - Staff:

· Staff were confident about reaching future targets based on their knowledge of landowners in the catchment/nitrogen allocation. At the appropriate time, landowners would be approached - past experience showed that things do change for landowners

· Availability of funding for the Incentive Scheme was important to enable action to be taken when an opportunity arises.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1. Receives the report, Progress on the Lake Rotorua Incentives Scheme.

Winters/Brown

CARRIED

7.6

Update Report - Te Arawa Lakes Trust

Presented by: Soweeta Fort-D'Ath – TALT Lakes Programme Coordinator.

Key Points:

· Acknowledged and thanked Nicki Douglas for her dedicated mahi and contribution to the Strategy Group, TALT and Te Arawa whānau

· Tarawera Collective Impact Project (TCIP) – acknowledged and welcomed newly appointed Project Team

· TCIP had received funding in the form of environmental DNA (eDNA) Test Kits. This would enable baseline testing of the lake to discover more about the plants and animals living in it; would also assist in achieving the deliverable related to implementing a water monitoring framework for the Tarawera Lakes System

· As a tool, a Data Working Group would be established to develop TALT’s own data system inhouse

· Emphasised that it was critical for TALT representation on the working group looking at the management of risk associated with the impact of climate change on lake levels

· Have commenced removing uwhi (harakeke mats) from some sites after 17 months to replace the hessian; data to date has shown that this had been a successful project; currently building a business case study to enable future resource building

· Working alongside Victoria University, GNS Scientists and Ngāti Rongomai Iwi Trust to assist researchers with deploying Remotely Operated Submersible Vehicles in the lake that would map and monitor underwater volcanic gasses at vents

· Catfish Volunteers Programme continued to work well - overall catfish numbers were much lower

· A second TALT Te Tūkohu Ngāwha School Science Fair planned for 28-29th July 2023.

Key Point - Members:

· Commended TALT on their mahi, taking the lead in the community/building capacity, being responsive and making a difference, kia kaha.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1. Receives the report, Update Report - Te Arawa Lakes Trust.

Brown/Nicolson

CARRIED

7.7

Verbal Update - Ministry for the Environment

Presented by: MfE Representative: Lorena Stephen, Director, Investments, Policy, Implementation and Delivery.

Key Points:

· Introduced Mark Witehira, Manager - Treaty Settlement and Partnerships; Mark would be supporting the Strategy Group hence forth as Juscinta Grace will be moving into other initiatives at MfE

· Freshwater farm plans regulations 2023 had been made public:

o Regulations would initially be applied within the Waikato and Southern Regions from 1 August 2023; the Bay of Plenty Region was scheduled to commence late 2024/early 2025

o Regions were encouraged to commence progressing the implementation prior to the official commencement date

o Farmers would be required to conduct a non-farm fresh water assessment and identify actions that would mitigate the risks. Risks would be tailored, based on farm activities/landscape/local catchment areas

o Freshwater farm plans would require certification and auditing/report back to Regional Councils

o Freshwater farm plans regulations 2023 | Ministry for the Environment

· New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS):

o Government was currently seeking feedback on proposals to manage afforestation by redesigning the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme’s (NZ ETS) permanent forest category

o Consultation period - 19 June to 11 August 2023

o A redesigned NZ ETS Permanent Forest Category - Ministry for the Environment - Citizen Space

o Te Arotake Mahere Hokohoko Tukunga - Review of the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme - Ministry for the Environment - Citizen Space

· Resource Management Reforms: the Spatial Planning Bill and the Natural and Built Environment Bill – currently awaiting Select Committee report back whereafter parliamentary process would follow; expected legislation to be passed prior to the 2023 General Election

· Climate Change Adaptation Bill, led by the Minister of Climate Change, would only progress after the 2023 General Election

· Te Mana o te Wai Fund (TMOTW): 34 iwi, hapū, whānau, marae and Māori rōpū have received TMOTW funding; funding recipients to share insights/progress on individual projects/lessons learnt at a Conference in Rotorua at Sudima Hotel on 29 – 30 June 2023.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1. Receives the verbal updated from the Ministry for the Environment.

Pene/Leeder

CARRIED

7.8

Update Report - Rotorua Lakes Council

Presented by: Rotorua Lakes Council Deputy Chief Executive, Environmental and Infrastructure Solutions, Stavros Michael.

Key Points:

· Progress with Rotomā / Rotoiti Sewerage Scheme:

o around 260 onsite systems had been completed to date

o increased lake levels had caused a slowdown in installations; resulting in an increase in costs (high lake levels required de-watering prior to installation)

o By end of 2023 Rotoiti to be completed with the installation of 2500 – 3000 onsite systems. Once completed, some 2.5 million litres of untreated sewerage would no longer seep into the lakes

o With the Minister for the Environment’s letter to the partners in early May 2023 and in contravention to the Minister’s earlier formal advice of August/September 2022, the Strategy Group would need to make decisions on a response to the Minister’s latest decision

· Rotorua Wastewater Treatment Plant - construction of the upgrade had been granted

· Tarawera Sewerage Scheme:

o Council had entered into a contract for Stage 1 construction and work was currently underway

o Procurement of Stage 2 through public tender was currently underway, with an outcome expected in July 2023

· Lake Rotoehu – recent rising lake levels had contributed to the contamination of the lake. The reticulation proposal was on hold pending sourcing of the required funding

· Rotorua Urban Area Comprehensive Stormwater Resource Consent – to be reviewed in conjunction with the FDS; would also require taking into consideration the outcomes from the proposed working group looking at the management of risk associated with the impact of climate change on lake levels.

Items for Staff Follow Up:

· Following correspondence received by the Strategy Group, staff to develop draft response letters on behalf of the Strategy Group, to be signed by Pou Tākiwaiora Arapeta Tahana, addressed to the following:

o Ngāti Pikiao Koeke Council of Elders Resolution Flood Gates Operation – letter dated 13 June 2023

o Tamati Coffey, Labour List MP Letter to Lakes Strategy Group – letter dated 19 June 2023.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1. Receives the report, Update Report - Rotorua Lakes Council.

Winters/Brown

CARRIED

7.9

Te Arawa Lakes Programme Status Report

Presentation Programme Status Update - Helen Creagh: Objective ID A4415725

Presented by: BOPRC Toi Moana’s Rotorua Catchments Manager, Helen Creagh.

Key Points:

· Key Programme Updates

o All health warnings across the Lakes had been lifted

o Deed 3-Year Plan to be prepared following completion of review of the Terms of Reference of the Strategy Group currently being led by Te Arawa Lakes Trust; furthermore both Councils were currently developing Long Term Plans (LTPs)

o In terms of the 50 tonne engineering solutions, a rural drain wetland site had been secured, construction commencing in the summer

o Continued to actively work to secure further wetland sites

o Was developing new strategies to consider for Incentives Scheme target

o Weed harvesting and alum dosing at Rotoehu not possible due to high lake levels

o Partnership letter in May 2023 to Rotoehu residents regarding potential surface overflow from Rotomā.

Key Points - Members:

o Thanked staff for the joint work undertaken in supporting the Rotomā/Rotoehu communities

o Noted that the Deed 3-Year Plan was based on Deed funding; highlighted that it was critical for Councils to be informed of all developments relating to the health of the lakes to enable them to consider inclusion of required actions in their respective LTPs where necessary.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1. Receives the report, Te Arawa Lakes Programme Status Report .

Winters/Brown

CARRIED

7.10

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

Presentation on EFPP Communication and Engagement: Objective ID A4415888

Presented by: BOPRC Toi Moana’s Senior Planner (Water Policy), Gemma Moleta.

Key Points:

· Updated the Strategy Group on progress with the Essential Freshwater Policy Programme (EFPP), implementing the requirements of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPSFM)

· Highlighted progress with community and iwi engagement

o Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes public engagement drop in sessions:

§ Friday 23 June 12pm-5pm, Saturday 8 July 10am-2pm and Friday 22 September 2pm-7pm.

§ Hui ā-rohe for tangata whenua

· Ōkūrei Wednesday 16 August, 2-4pm, 5.30-7.30pm

· Mauao Thursday 24 August, 2-4pm, 5.30-7.30pm

· Communication material had been published including the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes FMU Story and the Regional freshwater overview

· Material was available in hard copy or online through BOPRC’s webpages: Updating regional freshwater rules (boprc.govt.nz) and Changes to freshwater management in the Bay of Plenty | Participate BOPRC

· Online feedback to be provided through the Participate BOPRC webpage/hard copy feedback booklets were also available.

Resolved

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

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

Winters/Nicholson

CARRIED

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

8.1

Letter from Hon David Parker, Minister for the Environment dated 11 May 2023

Tabled Document 4 - Letter From Min David Parker addressed to Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group dated 11 May 2023: Objective ID A4415906

Key Points - Members:

· In relation to Minute Item 6.3 of the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group meeting dated 21 April 2023, staff were requested to write a letter to the Minister for the Environment advising that the Strategy Group was currently working cooperatively to address further details related to the reallocation of funds under the Deed of Funding to Rotorua Lakes Council, to support the completion of the reticulation of Lake Rotoiti

· Subsequently, a letter of response addressed to the Strategy Group had been received from Hon Minister David Parker, dated 11 May 2023

· Requested that receival of the Minister’s letter be acknowledged and a response be prepared

· Deemed it critical for the Governance Group to review/take on board the contents of the Minister’s letter and to consider the reputational value lost as a result of the outcome. Suggested further discussion to re-establish relationships with officials and the Minister.

Next Steps:

· Noted that, as part of the Strategy Group’s Terms of Reference Review process, TALT had been directed to include a review of how the Group worked together as partners, resetting values/principles/protocols/ tikanga

· In terms of a response to the Minister’s Letter, Pou Tākiwaiora to work alongside staff to draft a response letter.

9. Karakia Kati
Closing Karakia

A karakia was provided by Rangitihi Pene.

1:00 pm – the meeting closed.

Confirmed

Poū Tākiwaiora, Independent Chairperson

Arapeta Tahana



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	22 September 2023
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Helen Creagh, Rotorua Catchments Manager
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Chris Ingle, General Manager, Integrated Catchments
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To update Strategy Group on Programme activity since the last hui and present the 2022-2023 Purongo ā-tau for approval, to meet the requirements of the Deed of Funding for the Programme.

Programme Status Update and Purongo ā-tau 2022-2023

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

This report is prepared to meet the requirements of the Deed of Funding for the Te Arawa Lakes Programme and the Programme Management Plan for the Programme. This report provides the following to meet these requirements:

• A Status Update for the Programme as at September 2023.

• The Purongo ā-tau (Annual Report) for the Programme for the 2022/2023 financial year, for approval.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

1 Receives the report, Programme Status Update and Purongo ā-tau 2022-2023.

2 Approves the Purongo ā-tau 2022-2023 for submission to the Ministry for the Environment, as per the requirements of the Deed of Funding for the Programme.

1. He Whakamārama
Background

The Purongo ā-tau 2022-2023, the dashboard status update and the Deed funded project status updates within this report, provide a comprehensive update on the status of the Programme currently and the activities completed within the last financial year. This reporting is provided to fulfil the requirements of the Deed of Funding for the Programme and the Programme Management Plan.

2. Status Update

A dashboard status update is provided in Attachment 2 of this report. Also attached are the project status updates for key Crown funded activities, including Tarawera and Rotoiti sewerage reticulation projects, the Lake Rotorua Incentives Scheme and the 50-tonne engineering solutions component of the Integrated Framework water quality solution for Lake Rotorua (Attachments 7-11). These project status updates are attached to each Strategy Group report, as per the resolutions of the Strategy Group to strengthen Deed project reporting.

A notable milestone since the last meeting of the Strategy Group is the completion of the five-yearly Science Review of our work underpinning the restoration of Lake Rotorua. This review was completed in accordance with Regional Plan provisions and a 2106 Memorandum of Understanding related to the Integrated Framework for Lake Rotorua.

The review was undertaken by scientists from Regional Council, the University of Waikato, NIWA and other consultants and this work was all peer reviewed by Professor Warwick Vincent from Laval University in Quebec City, Canada. More information is provided with the Purongo ā-tau (Attachment 1), including links to the full reports.

In his Foreword to the Summary Report, Professor Warwick Vincent comments that “The scientific quality of each report was uniformly high, and indicative of the professional expertise, experience and standing of each of the consultants.” He goes on to say: “The result is an impressive set of high- quality reports, that together provide a robust 5-year assessment of PC10”.

Key projects for the Programme over the next quarter will be:

• Commence construction of a 9-hectare wetland in the upper Puarenga catchment and continue work to secure access to and approvals for further sites.

• Establish and commence work related to the Te Arawa Lakes Technical Working Group – Risks of Climate Change Effects on Lakeside Communities (see proposed Terms of Reference included with Agenda).

• Finalise the Strategy Group Review, requested by this Group.

• Working together, and alongside the Lakes Water Quality Society, to build a Strategic and Economic case (part of a Better Business Case) to seek further investment in weed control on the Te Arawa lakes for their long term cultural and ecological restoration.

Continue work on other Integrated Framework and sewerage reticulation projects as approved.

3. Purongo ā-tau

As per the requirements of the Deed of Funding for the Programme, attached in Appendix One to this report is the Purongo ā-tau 2022-2023 (Annual Report) for the Programme.

This report is comprehensive and prepared with input from all partners. It includes summary tables and updates on projects within the scope of the Programme, including both Deed funded and non-Deed funded work.

4. Outwards Correspondence

At its last hui the Strategy Group received letters from the Office of Tāmati Coffey, Te Kaunihera Pakeke o Ngāti Pikiao and Minister Parker.

Pou Takiwaiora, Arapeta Tahana replied to those letters on behalf of the Group and those replies, see attachments 3-6 of this report.

5. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

5.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

The Programme maintains a risk and issues register which is regularly updated to monitor and manage risks to programme success and issues which have arisen. This is undertaken in accordance with the Programme Management Plan. There are no significant risks or issues associated to report here.

5.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

Ongoing adaption by the Programme is necessary to respond to the impacts of climate change. The work undertaken by the Programme, particularly in terms of land use change, is aimed at better positioning our community to adapt to and mitigate against the effects of climate change and the impact of land use on our lakes.

As part of the response and planning for climate change effects on lakeside communicates at this meeting the Group will consider the establishment of a Technical Working Group to consider impacts on lakeside communities of climate change, and make recommendations to the group.

5.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori

Implications for Māori

The Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group is a post-settlement entity that helps to maintain and improve the Te Arawa lakes and is also a permanent joint committee of the two councils. Te Arawa Lakes Trust representatives sit around the table (as well as staff) and provide regular feedback on the implications for Māori of the programmes of work.

Involvement of tangata whenua in the development and delivery of these programmes continues to grow and develop over time. The review of the Strategy Group currently being undertaken by Te Arawa Lakes Trust will lead next steps in terms of providing for the aspirations of Māori within the Programme.

5.4 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

There are no financial commitments associated with the recommendations of this update report.

6. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

The Review of the Strategy Group and the structure of the Programme being led by Te Arawa Lakes Trust is a key next step for planning and deciding the future of the Lakes Programme and its work, beyond the projects which are now committed through the Deed of Funding with the Crown.

The Programme is now into the 2023-2024 financial year and the Purongo ā-ono Marama 2023-2024 for the Programme will be available in March 2024.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - 2022-2023 Purongo a-tau Annual Report ⇩

Attachment 2 - 22 September 2023 - Strategy Group Dashboard ⇩

Attachment 3 - 10-07-2023 Reply Letter - Okere Gates - Ngati Pikiao Koeke ⇩

Attachment 4 - 10-01-2023 - Supporting Graphs to Ngati Pikiao Koeke Reply ⇩

Attachment 5 - 24-07-2023 - Final Reply to Tamati Coffey - Rotoehu ⇩

Attachment 6 - 24-07-2023 - Final Reply to Minister Parker ⇩

Attachment 7 - 50 Tonne Engineering Solutions - Sept 2023 PSG Update ⇩

Attachment 8 - Incentives Scheme - Sept 2023 PSG Update ⇩

Attachment 9 - Low Nitrogen Land Use Fund - Sept 2023 PSG Update ⇩

Attachment 10 Rotoiti Reticulation - Sept 2023 PSG Update ⇩

Attachment 11 Tarawera Reticulation - Sept 2023 PSG Update ⇩



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	22 September 2023
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Gemma Moleta, Senior Planner (Water Policy)
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Namouta Poutasi, General Manager, Strategy and Science
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To update Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group on freshwater engagement, water quantity and recent national regulations.

Essential Freshwater Policy Programme Update

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

The Essential Freshwater Policy Programme (EFPP) is Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Council’s work programme to implement the requirements of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPSFM), primarily via changes to the Regional Policy Statement (RPS) and Regional Natural Resources Plan (Regional Plan). This report provides an update on engagement, water quantity and recent national regulations.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group:

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. 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 Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes FMU.

2. Engagement Update

2.1 Community engagement

Since your last meeting, community drop in events were held on 23 June and 8 July with a small number of attendees at each event. Key concerns and questions raised at those events included:

· lack of capacity to apply for Te Mana o Te Wai funding,

· bank erosion and water quality in the Utuhina Stream,

· how climate change fits into the freshwater plan change process,

· algal blooms,

· catfish, swans, Canadian geese and weeds,

· sewerage leak at Ngongotahā,

· legacy issues from the dump,

· emerging contaminants,

· water bottling,

· emergency discharges from the wastewater treatment plant,

· timing of alum dosing,

· the possible management options for farming,

· a need to focus on forestry as well as farming,

· potential for native species lakes.

Attendees also discussed management options and good management practices such as riparian setbacks including fencing and planting, sediment bunds, wetland conversion, use of farm environment plans, risk score cards and N surplus, input rules and strip grazing.

There was support for green infrastructure, detainment bunds, the 2045 timeframe noting there may be a lag time in seeing the changes, growing watercress to strip nitrogen, fencing of all waterways and keeping heavy stock off 25-degree slopes but not retirement.

Goals from tangata whenua attendees included:

• Restoration of our water boundary all the way to Maketū.

• Return of drinking water in the Utuhina.

• Return of mahinga kai species that use to feed whānau and supply the marae.

• Replant the catchment.

• Prioritise water infrastructure design.

Staff attended the Lakes Water Quality Society Lake Ōkāreka / Tarawera Community Meeting on 17 August. Attendees included Lake Tarawera, Lake Ōkāreka resident’s, representatives from Te Ora o Tarawera, Te Arawa Lakes Trust, and LQWS members. The meeting covered the NPSFM, the Tarawera Collective Impact Project and issues affecting the Rotorua Lakes.

2.2 Iwi engagement

A second round of hui-a-rohe were being planned for August-September 2023. After considering a range of matters the decision was made to use the resources planned to support the hui-a-rohe for targeted engagement with existing roopu instead. The view is that this will deliver focussed dialogue and discussion with tangata whenua which should enable Council to develop a more detailed understanding of Wai Māori and to enable a tangata whenua–centric focus and approach for freshwater management.

One example of this is a proposal to work with Te Arawa Arataua (Te Arawa Primary Sector) to understand the implications of policy options on landowner aspirations and to get their feedback on the draft management options being considered.

It is hoped that the change in direction away from the initially planned September hui-a-rohe has not caused any issues for potential attendees. The open invitation for any tangata whenua group to contact Council for a conversation about freshwater or to find out more information remains.

3. Water quantity

At this stage, draft minimum flows for surface water have been based on retaining regionally consistent levels of habitat for target fish species within a waterbody. Many Rotorua streams support highly valued trout populations with high flow requirements, which have influenced the setting of draft minimum flows. Ngāti Rangiwewehi have developed a cultural flow regime as part of the consenting process for the Awahou Stream, but there is less cultural values information available regarding other streams. It is noted RLC are working with hapū with regards to municipal water takes.

Surface water and groundwater demand in this FMU is generally low as there is an absence of irrigation demand and limited industrial use. However, in specific surface water catchments with municipal water takes (Mangakakahi and Utuhina and Waipa Streams), allocation is very high.

Minimum water levels and take limits for lakes have not been identified. Currently the only consented water takes from a lake relates to lake level control rather than consumptive use.

4. National Regulations

Since your last meeting the freshwater farm plan regulations have been gazetted. Freshwater farm plans (FWFP) will be rolled out to all regions by the end of 2025. Farmers and growers with 20ha or more in arable or pastoral use, 5 ha or more in horticulture use or 20ha combined use will need to have a FWFP under the national regulations. The FWFP requires farmers to undertake a risk assessment and identify actions to manage or mitigate those risks.

The other two national regulations identified in the last report to RTALSG, and identified below, are unlikely to be gazetted prior to the election:

· Amendments to the National Environmental Standards for Sources of Human Drinking Water 2007, and

· Amendments to the National Environmental Standards for Plantation Forestry 2017.

5. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

5.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

There are no significant risks associated with this update report.

5.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

Climate change impacts will be considered by Toi Moana as part of implementing the NPSFM and reviewing the RNRP.

5.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

The NPSFM clearly sets increased expectation of active tangata whenua involvement in freshwater management, and provision for cultural values and mātauranga Māori. In the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes FMU, there are some ongoing iwi initiated freshwater projects.

Council staff continue to invite and support iwi and hapū involvement to the extent they want to be involved or have capacity to be involved. Staff are maintaining a good faith approach, while also working to progress NPSFM implementation according to legislated deadlines.

5.4 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

As outlined in section 2, Toi Moana staff are well underway implementing the community and tangata whenua engagement plan which is a key focus throughout 2023.

5.5 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 vision, outcomes and goals in the Vision and Strategy for the Lakes of the Rotorua district.

5.6 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

6. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

1. RTALSG members are encouraged to attend the FMU drop-in session after this meeting.

2. RTALSG continues to be invited to provide advice and recommendations throughout the freshwater policy process. Members and their organisations are encouraged to promote participation at relevant events.

3. Engagement feedback will be summarised from the final community engagement event and shared with this group.

4. Draft policy options, assessments and plan change text will be drafted through the next stage of the plan development process.