Agenda of Tauranga Moana Advisory Group

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group

Membership

Chairperson (Appointed by the Group)	Cr Matemoana McDonald (Bay of Plenty Regional Council)
Deputy Chairperson (Appointed by the Group)	Charlie Tawhiao (Ngāi Te Rangi)
Tangata Whenua Members
Two appointed representative each:
Ngāti Ranginui	Te Pio Kawe Vacant
Ngāti Pūkenga	Rehua Smallman Keepa Smallman
Ngāi Te Rangi	Pia Bennett
Council Members
Four appointed representatives from:
Bay of Plenty Regional Council	Cr Matemoana McDonald Cr Kat Macmillan Cr Paula Thompson Cr Andrew von Dadelszen (alternate)
Two appointed representatives each:
Tauranga City Council	Commissioner Shadrach Rolleston Commissioner Bill Wasley
Western Bay of Plenty District Council	Cr Murray Grainger Cr Allan Sole
Observer – Department of Conservation	Shelly Paul
Quorum	The Advisory Group is not required to follow Standing Orders
Meeting frequency	Quarterly

The Tauranga Moana Advisory Group acts under a partnership agreement between iwi and local authorities and the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Statement of Purpose. The Tauranga Moana Iwi Collective Deed of Settlement, once passed into law, will require a Tauranga Moana Governance Group to be established. To prepare for the Governance Group, this Tauranga Moana Advisory Group has been established. The Advisory Group meet, share information and provide direction to staff of partner agencies until replaced by the Governance Group.

He aha ai - Purpose

Whanaungatanga and kaitiakitanga are the basis on which we want to move forward together.

To continue building strong working relationships to support and enhance the health of our harbour and catchments.

Ngā turanga - Role

The role of participants in the Advisory Group is to:

§ Whakataurite - coordinate: oversee and contribute to the work that partners do in the harbour and catchments

§ Whakarongo - listen: ensure the views of the hapu, iwi and wider community are represented in the work we do

§ Whakawhanaungatanga - involve: promote and support hapū, iwi and the wider community participating in our work

§ Whakatohatoha - share: provide regular updates to, and share information with partners

§ Whakakotahi - integrate: promote the integration of our work so we can achieve our purpose together

Power to Recommend

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

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group members report directly to their respective organisations.

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes

1 December 2023

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing: Friday 1 December 2023, 9.43 am

Venue: Council Chambers, Regional House, 1 Elizabeth Street, Tauranga

Heamana

Chairperson: Cr Matemoana McDonald - Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana (BOPRC)

Ngā Kopounga

Members: Pia Bennett - Ngāi Te Rangi

Cr Kat Macmillan - BOPRC

Cr Andrew von Dadelszen - BOPRC (Alternate)

Te Pio Kawe - Ngāti Ranginui

Cr Murray Grainger – Western Bay Of Plenty District Council (WBOPDC)

Zane Jensen – Department of Conservation (DOC)

In Attendance: Ngāti Ranginui: Riki Nelson

WBOPDC: Peter Watson (via Zoom) and Katy McGinity (via Zoom)

Tauranga City Council (TCC): Jim Summers

BOPRC: Reuben Fraser – General Manager, Regulatory Services; Pim de Monchy – Coastal Catchments Manager; Shane Iremonger – Team Leader Science; Claudia Cameron – Committee Advisor

Presenters: Brodie Davis – Project Parore

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies: Charlie Tawhiao - Ngai Te Rangi; Commissioner Bill Wasley - TCC; Commissioner Shadrach Rolleston - TCC; Cr Paula Thompson – BOPRC and Cr Allan Sole – WBOPDC

1. Karakia Whakatuwhera
Opening Prayer

A karakia was provided by Te Pio Kawe.

2. Ngā Hōnea
Apologies

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1 Accepts the apologies from Charlie Tawhio, Bill Wasley, Shadrach Rolleston, Paula Thompson, and Allan Sole for absence tendered at the meeting.

Grainger/Macmillan

CARRIED

3. Raupapa o Ngā Take
Order of Business

Chair, Cr Matemoana McDonald noted that the order may change to accommodate presenter availability.

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

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes - 8 September 2023

Resolved

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1 Confirms the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group Minutes - 8 September 2023 as a true and correct record.

Macmillan/Grainger

CARRIED

6. Whakaaturanga
Presentations

6.1

Project Parore

Presentation: Project Parore Update 1 December 2023: Objective ID A4555514

Presented by: Brodie Davis – Project Parore, supported by Pim de Monchy - Coastal Catchments Manager (BOPRC)

Key Points:

· The logo represented a project ambition of restoring the Parore habitat and species back to abundance

· Emphasis on enjoyment, connection, collaboration, partnerships and relationship building through all facets of the project

· Project aspects and aspirations:

o Catchment review/restoration/monitoring, native planting, land retirement, improved land management and water quality

o Five year environmental restoration plans, aiming to plant over 100,000 trees in 2024

o Fish passage restoration and water testing/species monitoring

o Land owner involvement, either financial or through hands-on mahi

o Development of community and land owner awareness of the benefits of the project, the positive impacts certain practices (such as land retirement and native planting) and awareness of species varieties

o Genuine communication with marae, hapū and the community, highlighted the importance of sharing kai together.

09:57 am – Cr Andrew von Dadelszen entered the meeting

· Sediment flowed from the hills into the harbour, therefore improvement in the hills was required first

· Funding partners were identified, including Jobs for Nature

· Community trapping projects were partially funded through the Ministry for Environment (MfE), but traps required private funding.

10:10 am - Cr Andrew von Dadelszen withdrew from the meeting

· A focus on education through college/school planting groups, teaching about planting, soil quality, pest animals and the importance of restoring the environment

· The Project employed nine staff members and had experienced recent growth with volunteer numbers increasing significantly. It was a challenge to support and thank them all, but acknowledged support from councils, for example through providing hi-vis gear

· Highlighted the importance of different community groups working together and sharing the same message to landowners – the kaupapa of improved water quality

· Importance of local people in the organisation, develop local talent/skill/knowledge.

Key Points - Members:

· Importance of genuine engagement with mana whenua, understanding the rohe/hapū to develop capabilities

· Emphasised the importance of kōrero to establish the appropriate use of Mātauranga Māori, drawing on the appropriate hapū knowledge, particularly if applying for funding

· Appreciated the connection with schools, mana whenua and communities, and the whakawhanaungatanga

· Acknowledged the environmental knowledge base within Project Parore, and it being one of the largest, more autonomous groups able to achieve big goals

· Highlighted the importance of urban areas contributing to the wellbeing of the moana.

In Response to Questions:

· Aspirations of future kaupapa and collaboration to develop plant nursery capacity

· Acknowledged there was only two and a half years remaining of Jobs for Nature funding, the goal was to leave a legacy of education to allow the community and hapū to continue the mahi

· Tree felling was not in the Project Parore space, but once trees were gone, the team could then prepare and restore the land.

6.2

Mount Air Quality Update

Presentation: Ambient Air Quality Data Update - 1 December 2023: Objective ID A4549993

Tabled Document 1 - Mount Maunganui Air Quality Working Party Flyer: Objective ID A4555527

Tabled Document 2 - Te Mahere Ahumahi o Mauao Mount Industrial Planning Study Summary: Objective ID A4555523

Presented by: Shane Iremonger – Team Leader Science and Reuben Fraser – General Manager, Regulatory Services

Key Points:

· Continuous air quality monitoring was taking place to determine exposure to a range of contaminants, in a range of locations

· International standards were used as a gauge not a target; the aim was to be well below

· A combination of multiple contaminants in one area added complexity and contributed to air pollution

· Typically concentrations diminished the further away from the source, therefore air monitors were mainly focussed around the Port of Tauranga (the Port)

· Contaminant spread was affected by weather patterns, climate patterns and anthropogenic changes, this created analysis difficulties which had to be factored in when looking at data sets

· Sulphur Dioxide (SO₂) caused adverse health effects. Levels in 2019 were highly elevated; however, 2023 saw the introduction of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL Regulations), this had contributed to level reductions

· PM₁₀ (particulate matter of 10 micrometres or less in diameter) were fine dust particles, easy to inhale and could cause lung issues

· The monitoring of SO₂and PM₁₀ at Whareroa Marae were showing downward trends, which may indicate improvements in industrial emissions control. The dramatic downward SO2 trend seen at the Rata Street monitoring site had not been seen at the Marae, although levels at the marae were below international guidelines

· Levels of Hydrogen Sulphide (H₂S), responsible for the rotten eggs odour, was regularly recorded higher than the permitted level at Whareroa Marae; although there were no associated adverse health effects above the permitted level constituted ‘nuisance’

· There was a need to minimise odour events impacting Whareroa Marae but this was challenging as not all events were caused by the industrial area

· It was important to understand, for effective on-going management, what was causing poor air quality at Whareroa Marae, and when. BOPRC were increasing monitoring instruments and activities

· Referenced the Ambient Air Quality Data Update 2023 and the residential monitoring website Mount Maunganui residential air quality | Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Toi Moana (boprc.govt.nz)

Key Points - Members:

· Questioned whether the stillness and coolness of the air at night could make monitors less effective, as plumes may not reach them, also whether the daily average taken at 12:00pm (instead of 12:00am) would make any changes in the discharge rate between day and night easier to detect.

In Response to Questions:

· Modelling exercises had indicated Methyl Bromide should not be a concern for the Marae due to its distance from the port

· Other sources of contaminants were being investigated, for example tyre/road/brake dust

· Investigation into data set changes for SO₂ monitoring relied on a good relationship between industry and the compliance officer. Often by the time a complaint had been made and the compliance officer had arrived (even a short time later) the odour had dispersed. This also meant a reliance on industrial site data monitors to capture changes

· If a programme of respiratory monitoring was to be conducted, it would be carried out by a health agency not BOPRC

· Raw filter analysis investigated a multitude of fine particles, therefore modelling and investigation were required to establish the source and distinguish individual particles

· As there had been concern for the wellbeing of children at Whareroa Marae, the air monitor had been placed adjacent to the Kōhanga Reo, but noted there were monitor limitations as the wind may take the plume either side of the monitor

· The Toi Te Ora Report into the health risks in Mount Maunganui was due to be peer reviewed by BOPRC and TCC; the report used the same data as presented to TMAG.

11:36 am – The meeting adjourned.

11:54 am – The meeting reconvened.

7. Ngā Whakamārama a Ngā Rōpu
Update from Partners

7.1

Bay of Plenty Regional Council

Presentation: BOPRC Update: Objective ID A4555512

Presented By: Reuben Fraser – General Manager Regulatory Services and Pim de Monchy – Coastal Catchments Manager

Key Points:

· Consents Update:

o No decision on the Port of Tauranga proposal

o The Genera consent application to discharge into the Mount Maunganui airshed was under appeal

o The Lawter application was open for submissions

· Maritime Update:

o There had been patrols all year in 2023, close calls between recreational boats and larger ships had been seen

o BOP Navigation Safety Bylaws were currently under review and due for public consultation over summer 2023/24. The committee reviewing the bylaws consisted of BOPRC Councillors and Tangata Whenua Representatives. Encouraged submissions on options for Hunters Creek

· Pāpāmoa Hills update:

o Dawn blessing ceremony for the new tracks, carpark, facilities and interpretive art material had been a success with 170 attendees, organised by Te Uepu, Papamoa Hills governance group and staff

· Ongoing sampling and monitoring was taking place at the Kopurererua stream realignment with the focus on improving the wellbeing/mauri of the wetlands

· Mediterranean fanworm had been discovered in the harbour potentially from being scraped off a hull of a vessel while moored. That outbreak had been contained, but constant vigilance was required

· The summer bathing surveillance monitoring had commenced on Labour Weekend with results available on the BOPRC website: Safe swimming areas | Bay of Plenty Regional Council | Toi Moana (boprc.govt.nz)

· A bittern had been seen in BOP, which showed progress and was a good news story.

7.2

Ngāti Ranginui

Presented By: Te Poi Kawe – Ngāti Ranginui

Key Points:

· The Settlement Bill was progressing, there was optimism the legislative process would be completed in 2024.

7.3

Tauranga City Council

Presented By: Jim Summers - TCC

Key Points:

· Engagement had commenced for Water Watchers

· Water restrictions in place for Tauranga from 1 December 2023 to April 2024: Water Watchers - Tauranga City Council

· Smart Water Plans for TCC contractors

· Te Maunga wastewater treatment plant project:

o Desludging pond one was progressing well

o Construction of clarifier 3 had commenced

· City Centre redevelopment:

o Coastal path to connect CBD waterfront to Memorial Park. The Strand redevelopment (Stage One) was underway, Stage Two would link Memorial Park to the Strand

o Seawall renewal planned, which included pre-cast ecological pods to promote sea life and create a promenade and landscape reserve for community events

o Waterfront playground in the design phase to replace and extend the existing playground and include a fully accessible amenities block

o Masonic Park redevelopment underway to link the waterfront to the civic precinct.

7.4

Western Bay of Plenty District Council

Presented By: Cr Murray Grainger - WBOPDC

Key Points:

· A new service delivery contract for road maintenance was upcoming, with local contractors used in the interim

· The Panepane Wharf replacement was progressing well and would be 45 metres long with access stairs

· The dog exercise facility in Te Puke was well used but as there had been community pushback in Ōmokoroa the next facility would be in Katikati

· Beach Road Peninsular stakeholder engagement was complete, a concept plan was due to be presented to WBOPDC followed by further consultation.

7.5	Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Pūkenga
	The updates from Ngāi Te Rangi and Ngāti Pūkenga were deferred to the next hui.

8. Ngā Whakamārama Te Papa Atawhai
Conservation Update

8.1 Department of Conservation

Presented by: Zane Jensen – Interim Tauranga Operations Manager DOC

Key Points:

· Noted some unfilled DOC positions in the Tauranga district, with recruitment underway

· New Ministers relevant to DOC:

o Minister for Conservation, Tama Potaka

o New portfolio Minister for Hunting and Fishing, Todd McClay

o Minister for Oceans and Fisheries, Shane Jones

· It was too early to understand the impact of the new Government on the DOC structure

· Kaimai-Mamaku rāhui area had reduced to two tracks, there had been no further detection of phytophthora agathidicida (PA/kauri disease/kauri dieback). Future management would be co-designed with mana whenua

· Thermal drone monitors and active listening monitors data was due to be analysed; had located a female bittern

· Dotterel work was continuing on Mount Maunganui Main Beach

· Continued to support community group conservation and pest control projects

· Supporting Jobs for Nature partnerships and looking at long term opportunities/self-sufficiency/autonomy to maintain the gains from the previous years.

Key Points - members:

· Interest in a myrtle rust area/plan pathogens area update being brought to TMAG.

9. Whakahoutanga Kōrero
Verbal Updates

9.1

Te Mana o Te Wai / Ko Wai Mātou

Presented by: Pia Bennett

Key Points:

· A steering group had been made up of three iwi groups

· MfE officials were involved to observe the project status

· There was potential for Matakana hapū to become involved.

Key Points - Members:

· Suggested an already established entity which had admin/reporting/ financial accountability experience be utilised to assist.

In Response to Questions:

· The contract with MfE was an interim arrangement which could be varied; anticipated an individual structure could be set up to transition to an independent entity

· Wanted the new entity to be environment and kaitiaki focussed with long term visions to support the people being represented.

10. Rā Hui Whai Ake:
Next Meeting Date:

Friday, 1 March 2024

11. Karakia Kati
Closing Prayer

A karakia was provided by Te Pio Kawe.

12.35 pm – the meeting closed.

Confirmed

Cr Matemoana McDonald

Chairperson, Tauranga Moana Advisory Group

Tauranga Moana Advisory Group 1 March 2024

PDF Creator



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Tauranga Moana Advisory Group
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	1 March 2024
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Merehine Waiari, Senior Advisor and Herewini Simpson, Kaihautu (Te Amorangi Lead)
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Kataraina O'Brien, General Manager, Strategic Engagement
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To inform the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group of the draft Long Term Plan 2024-2034 that Toi Moana will be consulting on.

Long Term Plan 2024-2034 Consultation

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

Toi Moana is currently working on the Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP). The LTP will set the strategic direction for Toi Moana over the next ten years, including the work we deliver, and how that work will be funded.

Toi Moana is focused on working collaboratively with Māori as key contributors to strategic direction and leadership in the region. We recognise the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group and the role we have in administering the Forum. The Advisory Group was established in preparation for the Tauranga Moana Iwi Collective Deed of Settlement being passed into law..

We will be consulting directly with tangata whenua from Friday 8 March to Tuesday 9 April on the draft LTP and the kaupapa Māori initiatives that have a direct impact on our partnerships with Māori. Through consultation, tangata whenua will have an opportunity to provide feedback that will help to inform the final decision-making for the LTP 2024-2034.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1 Receives the report, Long Term Plan 2024-2034 Consultation.

1. He Whakamārama
Background

Every three years we work with our community to create an LTP. The LTP sets the strategic direction for Toi Moana over the next ten years, including the work we deliver and how that work will be funded. Effective consultation with the community ensures that we make the right decisions for future generations. Toi Moana is also committed to ensuring we improve opportunities for Māori to contribute to local government decision making, including through the LTP.

We have developed this LTP during a period of change. We are proposing a dedicated community outcome Te Ara Poutama, which focuses on how Toi Moana will continue to work collaboratively with Māori over the next ten years. This will provide direction and identify key actions that are required across Toi Moana to enhance our partnerships with Māori.

This report provides an update on what Toi Moana will be consulting on for the LTP 2024-2034 that are most relevant to kaupapa Māori initiatives and the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group area.

2. LTP Consultation with Māori

2.1 Partnerships with Māori

The principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi/The Treaty of Waitangi and the partnership upon which it is founded are an established part of the local government framework. Māori hold a unique role in shaping and contributing to regional leadership and direction.

One of the proposed community outcomes, Te Ara Poutama, builds on Māori partnerships as a key priority and impact area. Through Te Ara Poutama, Toi Moana will work with tangata whenua to support enhanced Māori participation in operational activities, support Māori capacity and capability building, ensure an equitable approach to the four well-beings and delivery of community outcomes and partner with Māori to enhance delivery and share decision-making.

We welcome feedback from Māori on the proposed new community outcome Te Ara Poutama and the activities that will contribute to supporting this strategic direction. TARSG members are encouraged to provide any feedback they wish to which will inform the final LTP decision-making.

2.2 Consultation Questions

Toi Moana will be consulting with the community on three key issues in the consultation document from Friday 8 March to Tuesday 9 April and will be seeking feedback on the options for addressing these issues and any other matters related to our services and rates.

The consultation questions will focus on public transport, regional parks and a staged sell down in our Port of Tauranga Limited shareholding (via Quayside Holdings Limited). In December 2023, we notified iwi leaders that we would be consulting on the potential sell down in our Port of Tauranga Limited shares. We acknowledge that there are tangata whenua interests in the Port and welcome feedback on this proposal.

The LTP consultation document will be adopted and made publicly available in March 2024.

2.3 Direct Engagement with Māori

We are inviting direct engagement with iwi authorities, co-governance entities and other Māori leaders with our Māori Councillors on the draft LTP during the consultation period.

We will also be holding online wānanga in each of the three Māori constituencies on the following dates:

· Mauao: Thursday 14 March 2024 at 12.30pm (online and in person)

· Ōkurei: Monday 18 March 2024 at 12.30pm

· Kōhī: Thursday 21 March 2024 at 12.30pm

The online wānanga will primarily be focused on the kaupapa Māori initiatives within the draft LTP but will also cover the three key issues Toi Moana are consulting on. Attendees can ask our Māori Councillors questions and discuss the issues and options with other key staff to help inform any feedback.

Council staff will also be attending community events during the consultation period. Further details regarding the community events and online wānanga will be available through the Participate webpage and emailed to our Māori contacts list.

3. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

3.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

There are currently high engagement demands on Māori, which may make it difficult for Toi Moana to secure Māori participation during the consultation period.

This is being mitigated through pre-engagement where possible, however the LTP consultation document is still in draft and the consultation questions may be subject to change. Any significant changes will be notified to Tauranga Moana Advisory Group, other co-governance entities and iwi leaders Toi Moana have engaged with prior to the consultation period.

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 in the LTP and will be supported by Te Ara Poutama regarding how Toi Moana can partner with Māori to address the climate challenges in the future.

3.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

The LTP sets the strategic direction for Toi Moana over the next ten years, including the work we deliver and how that work will be funded. Māori hold a unique role in shaping and contributing to regional leadership and direction as a te Tiriti/Treaty partner.

Council must use the special consultative procedure in adopting the LTP under sections 93(2) and 93A of the LGA. This requires Council to clearly present the significant issues, plans and projects proposed for the LTP and provide an opportunity for the community to give feedback that will help to inform the final decision-making. Under section 81(1)(a) of the LGA, Council must also establish and maintain processes to provide opportunities for Māori to contribute to decision-making.

Toi Moana is committed to providing opportunities for effective consultation with Māori on the LTP 2024-2034, so that Māori are informed and can provide feedback on the significant issues, plans and projects that are relevant for Māori over the next ten years. Toi Moana Māori Councillors and staff are also open to meeting with co-governance entities and iwi leaders to discuss the LTP prior to the consultation period.

3.4 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

CONSULT

Whakauiuia

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

Toi Moana is inviting direct engagement with Māori during the LTP consultation period from Friday 8 March to Tuesday 9 April. This will involve direct engagement with Māori leaders and co-governance entities as well as online wānanga and staff presence at community events.

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

Many of the core functions of Toi Moana directly impact on the mauri of the Te Awanui Tauranga Harbour. The services we deliver and how they are funded that are set in the LTP, are therefore relevant to the purpose of the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group. This includes how we aim to partner with Māori in achieving shared outcomes over the next ten years.

3.6 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

4. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

Following consultation on the LTP, Toi Moana will hold hearings in May 2024. This will provide submitters with an opportunity to speak to Toi Moana Councillors about their submission.

Council will then review all feedback and formally adopt the final LTP 2024-2034 in June 2024.



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Tauranga Moana Advisory Group
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	1 March 2024
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Braden Rowson, Team Leader, Coastal Catchments
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Chris Ingle, General Manager, Integrated Catchments
Kaupapa: Purpose:	To update Members on the Land Management work programme around Tauranga Moana

Tauranga Moana Land Management Update

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

This is a summary of catchment management operations within the Tauranga Moana area. It includes highlights within the harbour’s Focus Catchments of Waitao, Kopurererua, Te Mania and Uretara, as well as Biodiversity and Coast Care programmes, and other projects.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group:

1 Receives the report, Tauranga Moana Land Management Update.

1. He Whakamārama
Background

The Western Land Management team delivers a diverse range of operational works around Tauranga Moana to improve water quality and biodiversity, including the ‘Focus Catchments Programme’ which aligns our work with the highest Essential Freshwater programme priorities such as improving the swimmability of poorly performing swimming sites. Previous Tauranga Moana Advisory Group reports provide programme background and updates. This report provides an update on work which continues in the priority Tauranga Moana Focus Catchments of Waitao, Kopurererua, Te Mania, and Uretara.

We are now several years into the programme and some of the smaller Focus Catchments have experienced a slight decline in the rate of new land management works able to be achieved voluntarily, using education/incentive-based approaches with willing landowners - notwithstanding that a significant amount of work has been successfully achieved with community in these areas to date. Additional Focus Catchment support is now being extended to other priority areas within the harbour, including the Wairoa Catchment and “Project Parore’s” northern Tauranga harbour catchment group area. This work aligns closely with the Council’s Essential Freshwater programme priorities for the Tauranga Moana Freshwater Management Unit where a moderate (10-40%) level of change is likely required to both sediment and E. coli, meaning our land management activity and interventions are an important delivery tool for achieving water-quality improvements.

Land Management Progress

Work continues to be delivered throughout the Kopurererua, Waitao, Uretara and Te Mania sub-catchments of Tauranga Moana as part of the Focus Catchments programme, along with other priority community projects around the rest of the harbour. The following provides some highlights of completed and planned activities in each catchment. Overall, Tauranga Moana Land Management activity is significant with over 140 active Environmental Programmes, for the 2023-2024 financial year 41.5 km of protection fencing and over 641,100 native plants will be established creating a further 22,700 ha of land protected.

1.1 Waitao Catchment Summary

Since 2020, significant resource has been committed to the Waitao catchment and in particular the Kaiate Falls catchment, due to ongoing swimmability issues due to bacterial contamination. A mixture of support has come from Regional Council, local land care group, crowd funding, central government funding and landowners. Significant livestock exclusion fences have been built with impressive buffer zones and setbacks. The wider Waitao catchment has also had significant retirement, fencing and planting. Alternative stock water has been made available where required.

There are currently 13 active environmental programmes within the Waitao Focus Catchment. For the current 2023-2024 financial year 134,700 native plants are planned to be planted and over 8 km of new fencing built with 6.7 ha of land retired.

Waitao Catchment polystyrene clean-up

During May 2023 rain weather events a stream crossing in the catchment above Kaiate Falls failed. The crossing was built many years ago by a landowner who used large blocks of polystyrene in the approach to the abutments. Unfortunately, a lot of this material has been discharged into the stream and was deposited along the banks of the stream heading down into Rangataua Bay. Council’s land management staff and contractors have spent several days attempting to clean up the stream banks along with efforts by the Waitao Kaiate Landcare volunteers and working with our compliance team on the complaint itself. We are aware of at least one other crossing where polystyrene has been used in the upper Raparapahoe Stream.

1.2 Kopurererua Catchment Summary

There are currently 11 active environmental programmes within the Kopurererua Focus Catchment.

For the current 2023-2024 financial year 23,300 native plants are planned to be planted and over 600 metres of new fencing built with 2.6 ha of land retired.

Matariki planting on Motuopae Island

BOPRC and TCC are supporting Ngāi Tamarawaho and Huria Trust in the ecological restoration of Motuopae Island in the Waikareao Estuary across a five-year programme of weed control, trapping and native re-vegetation. Motuopae Island is a Priority Biodiversity Site, and holds cultural significance for Ngāi Tamarawaho, being an urupa for their ancestors. To celebrate Matariki this year, Ngāi Tamarawaho hapū volunteers spent Friday morning planting 800 native plants on the island to support restoration efforts. Many hands made light work, and most of the mahi was finished by lunchtime in time for some kai back at Huria Marae.

The Kopurererua Stream Re-Alignment Project is progressing as planned with Tauranga City leading the works alongside Ngāi Tamarawaho. The final stages of the re-connection and abandonment of the old straightened channel are imminent. Further communications regarding the ‘de-fishing’ or fish rescue will follow.

Fish rearing habitat enhancement in the lower valley is also underway with plans to re-connect an existing wetland with the tidal river flow. This will make it a more brackish habitat suitable for inanga spawning and rearing.

1.3 Te Mania and Uretara Catchment Summary

Te Mania

There are currently 16 active environmental programmes within the Te Mania Focus Catchment.

For the current 2023-2024 financial year 117,100 native plants are planned to be planted and over 5.5 km of new fencing built with 11.7 ha of land retired.

Uretara

There are currently 7 active environmental programmes within the Te Mania Focus Catchment.

For the current 2023-2024 financial year 24,800 native plants are planned to be planted with 6.4 ha of land retired.

1.4 Wairoa / Omanawa Catchment Summary

This is not currently a Focus Catchment, but we are shifting some resources into this area and will be re-engaging with landowners and stakeholders. This will be based on prioritised properties based on risk.

One particular area of interest is the Omanawa gully head erosion site which has discoloured the lower Omanawa River since Auckland Anniversary weekend’s rainfall event in 2023. We are actively working to mitigate water flow over the slip faces to reduce the rate of sediment loss, including creation of new detainment bunds to reduce peak flows, creation of flume structures to direct run-off away from risk areas, and collaborative discussions with Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s roading team about re-direction of road run-off.

1.5 Coast Care

Early in September 2023 Coast Care hosted a video journalist from The NZ Herald who wanted a story about Coast Care. A school holiday event arranged for Te Ara Kaha by Mt Maunganui/Pāpāmoa Restoration Coordinator Ashley Robertson was the focus of the resultant video. https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/local-focus-three-decades-of-hard-mahi-make-a-difference/TFKHCU6FSVHQXKXOOHQTWX74SM/

The Coast Cares Beach User Survey has generated more than 500 responses from the community across the region. By all accounts this is a very good response rate and will ensure that the communities views are well represented in our future planning. In parallel Coast Care has commissioned an expert review of the programme and the two projects together should ensure that Coast Care can put a compelling case for funding to the various LTP plans that are currently getting underway.

Following a competitive procurement process Full Circle Arboriculture Ltd have been appointed as the Restoration Coordinator for both the Waihī Beach and Mt Maunganui/Papamoa operational areas and began work on the contract at the beginning of February. Angus Gough will be the restoration Coordinator for Mt Maunganui/Pāpāmoa, and Sheanna Chadwick will be the restoration coordinator for Waihī Beach.

1.6 Progressing Fish Care BOP Forum and work programme

Initial contact has been made to Bay of Plenty TA’s/District Councils, Waka Kotahi and KiwiRail via letter as the first step in progressing the Fish Care BOP Forum, sent to main contacts of government organisations introducing Jo Cranswick as the BOPRC Fish Passage Officer and encouraging reply to gauge interest in the Fish Care BOP Forum. Also, to update legislative requirements under NPS-FM and NES-FW, information sharing and collaboration between agencies going forward.

The Fish Passage Work Programme has engaged Blue Duck Design Ltd to undertake a region-wide survey of all tide gates found in the intertidal zone. This work will help supplement data and information for the structure information Regional Councils are required to collect under section 3.26(7) of the NPS-FM and potential fish barrier assessment information. The collected information will also help to make decisions as to priority of remediations of these types of structures.

1.7 MfE PWER Fund final financial audit completed

The 3 million dollar jobs for nature “MfE Public Waterways and Ecosystem Restoration fund” has passed its final independent financial audit with 100% compliance. The fund was administered by the Land Management team to the community to support increased fencing and planting activity in our Focus Catchments, contributing to water quality and biodiversity improvements. Over the three-year lifespan the project achieved:

• 76 landowners receiving funding

• 234.4 km of new stock exclusion fencing built

• 663,819 native plants established

• 71,564 people-hours spent on planting and fencing activity.

1.8 Care Groups

Annual thank you to our hard-working Western Bay of Plenty volunteers

In November 2023, in collaboration with other local councils and community organisations, we came together to thank our hard-working Western Bay of Plenty volunteers for their mahi this year. Without this group of incredibly passionate people, the Western Bay would not be the same beautiful place we all know and love. It was an awesome day celebrating our volunteers, visiting care group hubs, and exploring their projects. A huge thank you to the organisers, agencies and volunteers who helped us celebrate.

1.9 Kaimai/Mamaku

Regional Council’s investment of $300,000 per year to support the work of Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust, Care Groups and hapū-led initiatives continues, including a tripling of goat control, and some key improvements in pest and predator control at five sites.

1.10 Legislative Framework

The Land Management programme is an education and incentives-based work programme. It both complements and aligns with the legislative requirements and priorities of the Essential Freshwater Programme for Bay of Plenty, as well as other priorities such as biodiversity and care group support.

2. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

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

2.1 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

Mitigation			Adaptation
Reduce GHG emissions	Produce GHG emissions	Sequester carbon	Anticipate climate change impacts	Respond to climate change impacts
☐	☐	☐	☐	☐

Planting and land retirement activities can help to sequester carbon and produce buffers for climate change.

2.2 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Catchment work spans the rohe of a number of different iwi/hapū. Consideration has been given to the aspirations of iwi/hapu in the work programmes of each focus catchment, with strengthening partnerships in various stages of engagement and development.

2.3 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

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.

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

A Healthy Environment	We work cohesively with volunteers and others, to sustainably manage and improve our natural resources.
Freshwater for Life	We deliver solutions to local problems to improve water quality and manage quantity.

2.5 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

This work fits within the allocated budget for the programme. Demand remains high for incentivised land management work and new Government funding such as the Hill Country Erosion Fund will continue to increase the scale and quality of on-the-ground actions.

3. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

The Land Management team will continue to deliver its work programme across Tauranga Moana with community. Re-prioritisation of Focus Catchments will occur as further Essential Freshwater Policy Programme priorities become available and water quality data is received.