Name

Sub#

Organisation

S03

Charlie Rahiri, Chair Ngāti Ranginui Iwi

Key Points:

·       Acknowledged Regional Council’s leadership and inclusion of Māori seats as a significant step and appreciation of Council’s support, resources and active participation in community processes

·       Highlighted public transport challenges

·       Emphasised the importance of rivers as cultural, spiritual and ecological entities, and raised concern about deteriorating water quality

·       Urged Council to recognise a holistic approach and integrate Mātauranga Māori into water management practices

·       Climate change should remain a priority (with a focus on protecting burial grounds from coastal erosion and flooding)

·       Called for collaboration to implement strategies for environmental protection/community sustainability

·       Port Shares: supported the objectives of ensuring benefits from any sell down result in ongoing benefit to the region now and into the future

·       Concerned about implications for regional control and shifting focus from regional well-being to economic interests

·       Advocated for the strategic inclusion of local voices in the governance of the Port to safeguard interests

·       Highlighted the need for commitment/collaborative efforts and partnership to achieve a future that respected and incorporated Māori values, ensuring a thriving environment for all

·       Called to move forward with respect and mutual understanding towards a more inclusive future.

10281

Ngāti Ranginui Iwi

S04

Veronica Waiari/Tāne Brott on behalf of Brian Nicholas (Chairperson Tawhitinui Marae Reserve Trust)

Provided PowerPoint presentation 1.

Key Points:

·       Papakāinga Project/Land Administration: included three land blocks comprising the marae, papakāinga land; and one block leased by farmers (and managed by the Ahu Whenua Trust)

·       Financial Challenges: the Trust faced financial difficulties to develop the land due to a lack of capital and complex administrative processes

·       4.7 hectares/unused for years/required funding to progress consents/Whai Kāinga Whai Oranga

·       Project Funding: a proposal secured $2.5 million for public ownership, aiming to improve life and intergenerational wealth for the community

·       Whānau: 20 whānau/visited Built Smart/Kōrero from kaumatua/budgeting course/getting an insight into living on papakāinga

·       Infrastructure Development: The project encountered increased costs and technical issues, hence leading to the request for additional financial support from the Regional Council to complete the infrastructure (34 sites; septic tanks, stormwater & bund).

10547

Tawhitinui Marae Reserve Trust

S05

Helen Biel

Key Points:

·       Concerned for the health of the rivers/streams, in particular increased urban development/creep and huge changes taking place (additional industrial parks/development)

·       Raised awareness of marginalised communities in close proximity to the areas of development; community was living in sub-standard housing

·       Spoke on behalf of tamariki who were worried about their future

·       Important to learn the lessons from the past

·       Communities should be included in the decision-making

·       Requested capacity building/resourcing to enable marginalised communities to grow and participate

·       Requested the correct name for “Mangorewa stream” be used, namely “Wharere”

·       With regard to Papamoa Heritage Park, concerned that Tapuika Iwi, as an iwi of interest, was absent and requested that this omission be addressed.

10287

Individual

S06

Awhina Ngatuere (Chief Executive)

Provided a PowerPoint presentation 2 and Tabled Document 1.

Key Points:

·       Toi Ki Tua (TKT) was a kaupapa Māori Professional Internship Programme designed by Toi Kai Rawa Trust (TKRT) as a deliberate workforce intervention to accelerate the participation of Māori into higher skilled/paying roles within Bay of Plenty high-growth sectors

·       Seeking financial support from Regional Council to support kaupapa Māori programme that lead more students into Local Government futures

·       Seeking a total of $300,000 over 3 years to contribute to:

o   TKT’s core infrastructure

o   Contributing towards 10 scholarships

o   Total cost for deployment of TKT2024-2025: 40 Māori interns for Year 1 circa $356,000

o   Sought co-funding of $100,000 (per year) which represented 30% of the total programme cost per year

·       To address the needs of a young Māori population with significant interests in land-based industries, aiming to support high-value education, employment, and training pathways

·       Value Proposition: provide access to high-calibre professional development opportunities and foster a peer network among participants

·       Aiming for positive intergenerational change/grow household incomes through collaboration with employees and equipment.

10277

Toi Kai Rawa Trust

S08

Daryn Bean

The submitter did not appear (deferred to Hearing Day Three - 15 May 2024).

10261

Te Arawa Lakes Trust

S09

Ora Barlow

Provided a PowerPoint presentation 3.

Key Points:

·       Highlighted the unique landscape and native flora and fauna of Te Whānau-ā-Apanui rohe in the Eastern Bay of Plenty

·       Focus was to maintain the distinct cultural and environmental aspects of the region

·       Focus on freshwater/resource consents and relationship agreements

·       Noted challenges in navigating procurement

·       Building succession and creating a legacy for future generations was highlighted as a priority

·       Highlighted specific request/details for the total of $2.8m over 10 years: climate change mitigation/ adaptation, river and coastal management, and collaboration

·       Was important to invest in infrastructure to change the narrative around community development.

10153

Te Whānau-ā-Apanui

S12

Lorin Waetford, Policy Analyst

Key Points:

·       In addition to the submission made to the Long Term Plan, supported the Draft Rates Remission and Postponement Policy for Māori Freehold Land, advocating for the rights of Māori landowners

·       Supported BOPRC’s preferred option of rates funding for public transport in urban centres coming from 90% targeted and 10% general rates/emphasised the need for reliable and safe transport networks

·       Somewhat supportive of the development of new regional parks/great opportunity for mana whenua to improve wider local understanding of the unique relationship that mana whenua had with the natural environment

·       Recent improvements to Te Rae o Pāpāmoa had enabled mana whenua to share their stories with visitors on the park’s historic/cultural significance

·       Would however appreciate more information around local mana whenua’s views on proposed locations of new parks and whether they were in support or not

·       Fully supportive of proposed new regional parks provided the respective mana whenua were involved in the decision-making and supportive of the development

·       Port Shareholding: supported the sell-down on the condition that a collaborative mana whenua group was formed to facilitate in-depth discussions regarding a Right to First Refusal (RFR) process

·       While the consultation document included the financial risks and considerations, it did not speak to the wider arrangements of QHL and their purpose

·       Concern was if the economic/regional significance of the Port outweighed the environmental impacts its activities caused/also considering nearby industries whose presence was driven by the proximity of the Port

·       Supported representation of Māori in discussions about the Port shares/emphasised the importance of preserving indigenous rights

·       Expressed concern over shares being sold to offshore corporations/required safety measures to retain local industries

·       Commended the establishment of Māori wards and encouraged vocal opposition of any threats against Māori participation in local decision-making.

10367

Ngāi Tukairangi Ahu Whenua Trust

S11

Darlene Dinsdale / Shadrach Rolleston

Key Points:

·       The Waiāri Kaitiaki Advisory Group (WKAG) was established as part of the Waiāri resource consent conditions

·       A cultural recognition report had been completed and a list of prioritised initiatives for cultural recognition for the Waiāri Water Supply Scheme project had been developed with iwi representatives/council staff with costing/budgets to be developed

·       Such funding would recognise the equal partnership of the three councils and iwi in efforts to support the cultural recognition programme (and the biggest ever single investment in water supply infrastructure within the western Bay of Plenty sub-region)

·       Requested funding support: recommended that $250,000 be included in 2024/25 and a further $250,000 in 2025/26 to progress the programmes

·       External funding sources and additional funding from the three councils was required to get the programmes completed

·       Some of the programmes required business cases and others had smaller budgets that could be started immediately

·       WKAG had already successfully secured a budget of $250,000 for each of the 2024/25 and 2025/26 years from Tauranga City Council and would also be seeking support from the Western Bay of Plenty District Council through its Long-Term Plan process.

9874

Waiari Kaitiaki Advisory Group

S14

Ngawai Crawford

Key Points:

·       Te Tiriti o Waitangi at the centre

o   Supported the use of Te Reo Māori

o   Principal submission - that BOPRC confirm its commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through a
Te Tiriti statement/re-align its strategy and operational functions to give effect to this commitment

·       Port of Tauranga shares:

o   Supported BOPRC diversifying its portfolio in selling down its shares and for a portion of those shares to be available for iwi to purchase

o   Could be of benefit to accompanying community outcomes while complementing a healthy environment, connected and future ready communities

·       Supported the Rates Remission and Postponement Policy for whenua Māori.

10562

Hineuru Iwi Trust

S15

Dr Frances Teinakore-Curtis (Project Manager for the TARSG development of the Tarawera Awa River Strategy Document), Leith Comer (TARSG Chair) and Tiipene Marr (TARSG Alternate Member, representing Te Mana o Ngāti Rangitihi Trust)

Provided Tabled Document 2.

Key Points:

·       TARSG had agreed to meet the legislative requirement of producing a Strategy Document in three stages

·       Purpose of the submission was to seek additional funding for project management and support for engaging stakeholders to help TARSG and the Iwi Collective effectively complete the Tarawera Awa Strategy Document

·       Presented proposed TARSG project management and iwi/stakeholder budget for July 2024 – June 2027 as per tabled document

·       Initial stakeholder engagement had begun, with plans to expand outreach to various groups

·       Project management would be crucial to guide the TARSG Strategy Document's drafting and facilitate successful stakeholder involvement by 2025.

10197

Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group (TARSG) “Iwi Collective”

Name

Sub#

Organisation

S16

Ashley Biel and Te Rangiwhakatakaa Whetu-Biel

The submission was delivered in Te reo Māori (in parts) and that interpreter Maika Te Amo interpreted via the translation equipment provided to Councillors.

Key Points: Te Rangiwhakatakaa Whetu-Biel

·       Emphasised the importance of the river as safe and sacred place that raised her spirits and provided the opportunity to connect with her ancestors

·       Highlighted the importance of recognising the river as living being that sustained various species

·       Hoped that the Long Term Plan process would acknowledge the importance of nature and that decision-making would be beneficial to the younger generation.

Key Points: Ashley Biel

·       Highlighted the importance of Treaty partners at the decision-making table; having the same mana

·       It was critical to have a tamariki friendly environment – they were our future

·       Hoped that the recent Marine Safety Bylaws Hearings would support today’s kōrero

·       Stressed the importance of resource building and training.

Key Points – Members:

·       Was encouraged by the participation of rangatahi, contribution in te reo Māori/optimistic for future of mokopuna.

10308

10309

Individual

S17

Roana Bennett (Project Co-ordinator)

Cr White declared a conflict of interest (Independent Chair of Te Wahapū o Waihī).

Provided PowerPoint presentation 4.

Key Points:

·       TWOW’s long term goal was to have a healthy mahinga kai as an indicator of a thriving Waihī estuary, catchment and community

·       TWOW met all community criteria: He Taiao Ora/He Hapori Mata-hī AwateaHe Hapori Tūhono/He Whanaketanga Mauri Tū Roa/Te Ara Poutama)

·       Te Mahere Tūroa 2024-2034 recognised/supported the important mahi being done by TWOW by continuing/strengthening the partnership with Toi Moana

·       Noted their Kaitiaki Taiao Summer internship programme and objectives achieved

·       Hoped that BOPRC continue to: resource the Waihi Estuary Focus Catchment/Focus Catchment capital project and construction of the 20ha coastal wetland at Cutwater Road/provide new capital funding for the proposed 10ha constructed treatment wetland.

·       Requested that BOPRC/TWOW continue to seek new opportunities for low-lying land adjacent to Waihī Estuary to be retired from intensive dairy farming into wetlands

·       Hopeful that BOPRC/TWOW consider establishing a formal joint committee/similar partnership between local/central Government/iwi within the Waihī Estuary catchment (i.e. similar to Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority)

·       TWOW valued the partnership with BOPRC.

10468

Te Wahapu o Waihī (TWOW)

18

Roana Bennett

Provided PowerPoint presentation 5.

Key Points:

·       Highlighted iwi and hapū as agents to lead change, with a common agenda with Toi Moana

·       Te Ahikaaroa/mana whenua were building their collective capacity/capability to enhance the health and wellbeing of the taiao

·       Primary focus areas: taiao and climate change

·       Te Huringa Āhuarangi-Climate Change:

o    Must have priority focus and investment

o    Mitigation & adaptation must go hand-in-hand

o    Supported rate increases to address climate change

·       Maketū Climate Change Adaption Plan

·       Land-use change was an important programme to support landowners to make necessary changes – or to exit their businesses.

10516

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Whakaue ki Maketū

S19

Arapeta Tahana

This submitter did not appear due to a tangihanga (deferred to Hearing Day Three - 15 May 2024).

10348

Te Tokotoro o Manawakotokoto – Ngati Pikiao Iwi Trust, Ngati Rongomai Iwi Trust, Ngati Makino Iwi Authority

S20

Arapeta Tahana

This submitter did not appear due to a tangihanga (deferred to Hearing Day Three - 15 May 2024).

9721

10225

10354

Te Tokotoro o Manawakotokoto / Atirangi Tahana Whānau Trust – Rates

S21

Raponi Wilson (Pou Taiao | Environmental Operations Manager)

Key Points:

·       Sought support for:

o   Equitable participation of tangata whenua in natural resource management, i.e. rivers, freshwater units/systems

o   Continued capacity and capability building opportunities to upskill iwi

o   Freshwater monitoring/restoration efforts that were essential for restoring the balance/mauri of the Taiao

o   A full-time equivalent (FTE) position for the resource management unit to enable effective management/overseeing resource consents to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements

o   Requested funding support of $65,000 per year

·       Investment in capacity building/partnering with Māori communities contributed to building long-term sustainable relationships and enhancing the effectiveness of resource management efforts

·       Tapuika aimed to develop a holistic and Mātauranga Māori-informed freshwater monitoring system, ideally built on a digital platform

·       Requested support to cover setup and maintenance costs of this system

·       Partnering with Regional Council would achieve meaningful progress towards shared goals (i.e restoration, enhancement and protection of taiao).

10296

Tapuika Iwi Authority

S22

Raponi Wilson

Key Points:

·       Supported the retention of staffing and budgets to uphold the vision and outcomes of the Kaituna River Document and Te Tini a Tuna Kaituna River Action Plan. This included continued support for initiatives such as the Focus Catchments Programme, Wetland Creation, Science and Data Services Programmes, and Te Amorangi support to iwi

·       Expressed gratitude to Regional Council for the Secretariat funding in 2021-24 years, which had been re-purposed to focus on achieving otherwise unfunded project outcomes in Te Tini a Tuna. However, noted that this funding would end on 30 June 2025.

·       Requested a new allocation of up to $50,000 per year from 1 July 2025 onwards to sustain the iwi capacity to continue to lead on project delivery

·       Funding would enable continued implementation of Te Maru o Kaituna Action Plan and would support the initiative being worked on by the tangata whenua members to ensure a more equitable and executive co-governance arrangement

·       Project 15 of Te Tini a Tuna, concerning the creation of a new regional park in the lower Kaituna catchment, remained unfunded

·       Working together in partnership would achieve greater success in protecting/enhancing the Kaituna River and its surrounding environment.

10285

Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority

S23

Laura Wragg/ Mary Dillon / Fiona Lavin

Provided a PowerPoint presentation 6.

Key Points:

·       Requested funding contribution for operating costs to deliver a suite of programmes/initiatives to raise awareness and promote action around climate change, biodiversity, pollution and resilience

·       Envirohub was engaged with individuals and organisations to act as a catalyst for change

·       Climate awareness – offered programmes and events to tap into the five stages of human change to encourage awareness and action

·       Change resilience/regeneration of natural environment: importance of strategic planning/connecting and building community through programmes/apps/events and supporting residents who wanted climate action

·       Vision: ”The Bay of Plenty is restored, revived, and thriving, Our people have excellent wellbeing. Our places, are highly liveable, Our land and water is full of life”

·       Overview of programmes and initiatives, environmental messaging and social reach.

9868

Envirohub

S24

Matt Cowley

Key Points:

·       Port Shares: supported a precautionary approach to selling down shares to no less than 40%, however, greater transparency and certainty was needed on how the proceeds would be used

·       Given the significance of the Port, the greatest economic development initiative that BOPRC could do, was to support the Port’s enduring social licence to operate

·       Requested assurance regarding Quayside’s investment framework

·       Supported the disestablishment of Bay of Connections, which was no longer industry led; however supported BOPRC continue to support regional economic development by delivering its core services well

·       Requested explanation of the $4.4m Opex in Year 3 of the Regional Development Activity

·       Passenger Transport Funding: supported proposed option 2

·       Acknowledged that the local government system in New Zealand was broken and needed reform; expressed concern that councils focussed too much on revenue and not enough on cost prioritization

·       Suggested a per capita analysis of how investment income was allocated across the region to ensure fairness.

10376

Tauranga Business Chamber

S25

Sharon Campbell (via Zoom)

Key Points:

·       Was a descendant of raupatu/land confiscation

·       NZ Land Settlement Act, Public Works Act and multiple other acts, policies and bylaws had continued to breach Te Tiriti o Waitangi and the rights of mana whenua

·       Concerned about large culverts installed/impacting both sides of SH35 adjacent to the Waiaua river; whenua/land flooded regularly and culverts were depleting the whenua, which needed to be included in remission, especially considering the legacy of breaches by central and local government

·       Supported the proposed policy Rates Remission and Postponement Policy for Māori Freehold Land.

9866

Individual

Rates Remission and Postponement Policy 2024

S26

Ngawa Hall/Graham Cameron

Key Points:

·       Emphasised the importance of being leaders and partners in growth and development

·       Principle submission was that BOPRC confirm its commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through a
Te Tiriti statement and re-align its strategy/ operational functions to give effect to this commitment

·       Endorsed the use of the Māori language in council strategies, communications, and materials

·       Requested confirmation of a relationship agreement with BOPRC to solidify partnership efforts

·       Emphasised the need for support to execute their  infrastructure projects

·       Requested that rural zoned residents be made exempt from public transport rates contributions when there was no provision of access

·       Supported in principle a reduction of Port shares however, actions were required to reverse the degradation of Te Awanui/Tauranga Harbour

·       Advocated practical support to enable meaningful engagement and partnership with BOPRC

·       Requested support for the establishment of a marine reserve/the need to protect marine environments.

10570

Pirirakau Incorporated Society

S26.1

Raewyn Bennett

Provided PowerPoint presentation 7 and Tabled document 3.

Key Points:

·       Overview of Ta Arawa Ki Tai Trust Projects

·       Projects involved the following schools: Te Kura o Maketu, Te Akau ki Papamoa (2), Pukehina Scool, Te Kura Kaupapa Māori o Ruamatā

·       TAKT Kaitiaki programme included:

o   Seagrass monitoring Ōngātoro/Maketū estuary and Te Wahapū o Waihī estuaryi

o   PSP Programme with Cawthron Institute

o   Wai Te Puia restoration

·       Expressed interest to bid for funding/potential contracts of mutual benefit for any projects which fell within the long-term work plans of BOPRC.

10437

Te Arawa Ki Tai Trust (TAKT)

S27

Bill Wasley and Shadrach Rolleston

Key Points:

·       Port Shares: supported Option 2 and for proceeds to be invested to benefit current and future Bay of Plenty residents

·       Encouraged BOPRC to begin meaningful discussions with the community on the best use of returns from existing investments to include transparency regarding options of continued subsidy of real cost of operational services provided by Regional Council; or investing in strategic outcomes that delivered long term benefits (i.e. infrastructure, resilience, housing and economic outcomes)

·       Considered Quayside Holdings Limited (Quayside) purpose should be refined

·       Divestment proceeds: consideration be given as to the greatest benefit that could be achieved across the region

·       Requested that Te Manawataki o Te Papa civic development project, including the museum, be included for consideration in the BOPRC’s Long-term Plan

·       Request that BOPRC consider contributing to the costs of the upgrade of the Railway and Fisherman’s Wharves projects; given the regional economic benefits, and to assist with the continued support for working boat fleet

·       Requested that provision be made for co-funding, as partners, on the future requirements regarding transport planning/funding/implementation of public transport infrastructure

·       Waste Management /enabling a circular economy:  to provide leadership for waste management across the Bay of Plenty. Requested that BOPRC consider funding a dedicated resource to undertake this role/allocate funding to support a refresh of the regional waste strategy

·       Requested that funding be included in the Long Term Plan from Year 1 onwards to support the development and future monitoring of a whole of Wairoa River specific Catchment Management Plan as part of the broader development of the Freshwater Management Unit for the Tauranga Moana harbour

·       Expressed appreciation for the effective support/successful working relationship with Commissioners over the past triennium.

10376

Tauranga City Council

S29

Dr Chantal Pagel, Regional Conservation Manager (RCM) – Bay of Plenty and East Coast

Key Points:

·       Advocated for affordable/accessible public transport while prioritising investment of public transport infrastructure over road spending

·       Port Shares: Supported Option 2, diversification of financial portfolios to mitigate risks that could be caused by inflation/climate change

·       Encouraged diversifying investment portfolio towards more ethical and environment-friendly shares

·       Supported investment in regional parks; celebrated Council’s decision to establish new regional parks

·       Recommended elevating the climate change policy as an overarching priority in the LTP

·       Strongly recommended inter-agency co-operation on climate and ecological initiatives

·       Chapter on Safe and Resilient Communities should recognise the role/importance of natural infrastructure provided by natural places

·       Monitoring of compliance with resource consents and appropriate enforcement was essential for the integrity of the resource management system and would appreciate this being added as a level of service

·       Recommended increasing funding for restoring indigenous biodiversity and natural ecosystems and improving biosecurity

·       Requested maintaining the current funding allocation for the Kaimai Mamaku Restoration Plan as set out in the Environmental Programme and to increase the funding allocation to Manaaki Kaimai Mamaku Trust to provide for continued operation

·       Requested maintaining the budget for Environmental Plans in the Eastern Bay of Plenty

·       Supported the planned aerial wetland mapping activity

·       Advocated for more nature-based solutions to manage natural hazards risks.

9136

Forrest and Bird

S30

Kylie Smallman

Provided Tabled Document 4.

Key Points:

·       Port Shares: Supported Option 2

·       Council's Port shares should be offered to ngā lwi o Tauranga Moana to purchase as a "Right of First Refusal" to enable intergenerational strategies to become a reality

·       Would not support the notion of offering Port shares out before Māori were consulted and provided the option of RFR, either wholesale or in tranches over several years between Ngai te Rangi, Ngāti Ranginui and Ngāti Pūkenga.

·       Highlighted the benefits of Tauranga Moana lwi becoming major shareholders in the Port.

9872

Ngāti Pukenga ki Tauranga

S32

Riki Nelson / Reon Tuanau

Provided PowerPoint presentation 8 and Tabled Document 5.

Key Points:

·       Overview of Kaimai Kauri Native Nursery Plan/stages/structures/work to support restoration projects in Northern Tauranga Moana

·       Requested $40,000 funding to support employment of a Nursery Manager (year 1), $18,000 (year 2); should be self-sustained thereafter

·       Kaimai Kauri was a hapū-owned entity/partnership between Ngāti Te Wai and Te Whānau a Tauwhao ki Ōtāwhiwhi

·       Employed and trained hapū/whāau members to deliver services/contracts for clients and partners with Treaty relationships

·       Hapū aspirations were to be kaitiaki/managers of their cultural sites of significance on public reserves

·       Plan was to develop a landscape restoration and enhancement project across their rohe and establish a native nursery with locally eco-sourced seeds/plants to support the restoration work.

10278

Te Whānau a Tauwhao ki Ōtāwhiwhi, Ngāti Te Wai

S28

Grant Dally

Provided a PowerPoint presentation 9.

Key Points:

·       Overview of Flood Protection/Control and Rivers and  Drainage Schemes

·       Cyclone Gabrielle and heavy rainfall events in 2023 highlighted vulnerability of the Te Puke catchment

·       Identified contributing causes/extent of downstream flooding, silt inundation, waterborne debris damage and littering on stream/riverbanks and flood plains

·       Rivers and drainage asset management -

·       Supported an upgrade of flood control pumps for the Te Puke floodplains on the west side of the Kaituna River that improved volumetric capacity/operational resilience

·       Te Puke was currently undergoing a Spatial Plan Review. Stormwater modelling and control in this catchment was a critical element in growth planning

·       Proactive action was required in view of the current development taking place in Te Puke.

104650

Individual

Name

Sub#

Organisation

S3

Anaru Vercoe

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 2

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 1

o   Requested clarity on any proposed preferential shares. Concerned that by diversifying investment into other opportunities this would affect the striking of rates

o   By offering preferential shares to iwi, Council must consider that those iwi who had the funds and who were not mana whenua (outside Bay of Plenty region -e.g. Ngai Tahu, Tainui) would have mana over the tangata whenua when making future decisions about either the Port or matters relating to other portfolios

·       New Regional Parks: supported Option 1

·       Had sufficient parks; any budget that was available should be targeted for climate change actions

·       Requested a dedicated staff resource to be deployed to the Eastern Bay, (Ōpōtiki through to Cape Runaway - Te Tai Rāwhiti) where BOPRC had minimal presence

·       Requested that Council develop a Treaty of Waitangi policy position - to be established at an organisation wide level, a proactive and consistent approach.

9692

Ngaitai Iwi Authority

S1

Reuben Araroa

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 2

·       Supported Toi Tu Te Reo Māori

·       Supported Toi Tu Te Tiriti

·       Supported Te Ara Poutama and its Strategic Framework. Emphasised the need for a comprehensive strategic framework to measure performance/track progress

·       Proposed rewording references to 'community' in the LTP outcomes and goals to 'communities' to acknowledge the diversity and uniqueness of subset communities within the rohe

·       Advocated for an equitable approach to procurement processes

·       Encouraged Council to proactively seek opportunities for Iwi-Māori to participate in operational contracts

·       First right of refusal for Port shares – supported the concept of ring-fencing a portion of port shares for Iwi-Māori to purchase, aligning with the principle of first right of refusal

·       Enhancing Civil Defence Emergency Management (CDEM) and Flood Management Services – requested better support for Marae and Marae communities

·       Requested funding to initiate and set up a Taiao hub to manage all consent and engagement processes

·       Emphasised the importance of recognising Mataatua Wharenui as a significant cultural treasure.

10283

Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa

S5

Heyden Johnston

Provided PowerPoint presentation 1.

Key Points:

·       Bar calling service in Whakatāne - called for continued funding/support for longstanding preventative measures

·       Maritime services supplied by BOPRC within the Eastern Bay of Plenty required consideration and consultation with all stake holders, including the general public

·       Reduction of services would cost lives and this was totally unacceptable

·       Seemed that Regional Council was relinquishing responsibility when they should be leading the way with a safety first approach

·       There was no evidence that indicated any legal risks to BOPRC; it was a skipper’s responsibility to ensure safety of themselves and crew before crossing any river bar

·       Called for the reinstatement of this essential service, ensuring maritime safety going forward.

10220

Whakatāne Sportfishing Club

S7

Garry Rusden

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported principle of “user pays” and not through targeted rates. Expressed concern about buses driving around with low/no passengers

·       Proposed sell down of Port of Tauranga Shares: supported option 1. Holding large shareholding had served BOPRC well over the years. Any sell down of any investment should only happen if the investment had shown it had long term negative growth

·       Opportunities for regional parks:  supported Option 1 - status quo. Had great beaches to visit/walkways/bush walks to explore natural beauty. Developing regional parks was costly and unnecessary in these times of austerity

·       Expressed concern about increased rates. Many ratepayers were already struggling financially. Enquired about internal savings/optimisation by BOPRC

·       Whakatāne River Marina – BOPRC would ultimately become involved as it would affect other aspects of Regional Council’s core business. This project would require BOPRC resources which would translate to increased rates in coming years.

10017

Individual

S6

Mate Hetia

Key Points:

·       Support and endorse Te Ara Poutama, suggested to change reference from “community” to “communities”

·       Commended BOPRC on the use of Te Reo Māori; endorsed a reo rua focus

·       Requested that buses/bus stops be made available to and from Poroporo.

·       Rates remission policy: Whenua Māori should not be rated

·       Reka Charitable Trust involved kaupapa that had supported/endorsed food sovereignty and food security for several years

·       Our people were river people, and yet could no longer source edible food from the awa as it was severely polluted

·       Whānau were struggling to find houses and were surrounded by acres of unutilised whenua Māori

·       Marae did not have emergency management plans,  yet was located  right by the river. People could not find work, and yet there was an eco-focused economic development opportunity on the doorstep. At this rate, mokopuna would have no ability to source food from their natural environment.

·       Requested support to develop a master plan for an eco-economic development opportunity in Poroporo. Seeking $70,000 to engage an expert to scope up and identify what work would be required when and how feasibility should be scoped/seeking funding for a full feasibility study.

10563

Reka Charitable Trust

S8

James Hudson

Provided PowerPoint presentation 2 and Tabled Document 1.

Key Points:

·       Expressed view that the LTP did not support nor enabled the BOPRC to deliver upon the LTP's intentions in the following areas:

o   Wellbeing

o   Te Tiriti o Waitangi Partnerships

o   Kaitiaki Capability and Capacity

o   Mātauranga Mata-atua

o   Monitoring and Reporting

·       Suggested Solutions:

o   Requested Council to prioritise developing Te Tiriti o Waitangi-based partnerships with tangata whenua

o   Council to meaningfully fund and support tangata whenua by committing resources

·       Waiora Mata-atua was a blueprint for Te Tiriti-based partnership in Mata-atua

o   Needed to reset the partnership narrative – wellbeing vision

o   Build a fit-for-purpose outcomes framework

o   Design a shared monitoring and reporting system

o   Establish a centre of excellence.

10458

Waiora Mata-atua

S9

James Hudson

Refer submission S8.

10375

Ngati Pūkeko

S10

James Hudson

Refer submission S8.

10436

Pukeko Marae

S11

James Hudson

Refer submission S8.

10572

Waiora Mataua (Measuring Waiora: monitoring freshwater at the interface)

S13

Mayor Victor Luca, Councillor Ngapera Rangiaho, Steph O'Sullivan, and Wouter Vullings

Provided PowerPoint presentation 3.

Key Points:

·       Transport

o   Supported passenger transport services and funding/continued efforts from BOPRC for transport modal shift

o   Supported the justification of regional benefit from passenger transport services but encouraged BOPRC to consider the proposal against the underlying equity and affordability context of the region

o   Supported continuation of free bus passenger services for under 18s

o   Requested that BOPRC investigate opportunities to support on-demand passenger transport services for the Whakatāne District

·       Port of Tauranga shares

o   Supported use of investment portfolio returns to enhance outcomes across the region/supported sale of shares subject to due diligence on risk and sustainability of portfolio, with the provision of the overarching principle that this would facilitate greater ongoing investment in the wellbeing of our region’s environment and communities

·       Developing new regional parks

o   Supported the proposal to investigate two new regional park opportunities; should the initial investigations lead to further investment, further consultation should be undertaken on costs and options

o   Requested increased focus on Eastern Bay of Plenty/Whakatāne District opportunities to progress similar outcomes

·       Requested recommencement of financial contribution towards Toi EDA at $100,000 per annum

·       Supported working together to get key projects across the line

·       Requested a funding contribution of $15 million towards the Matatā wastewater project delivery

·       Supported continued partnership with BOPRC on the Eastern Bay of Plenty Spatial Plan. Requested BOPRC funding commitment of $100,000 per annum in the Long Term Plan towards implementation of the Spatial Plan beyond the development phase

·       Requested BOPRC to establish and resource a dedicated regional waste management role.

10380

Whakatane District Council

S#

John Stothers

Provided tabled Documents 2 and 3.

Key Points:

·       Submitted on matters relating to planning for the future growth of the Whakātane district:

o   Need for a second bridge at Whakatāne

§  Traffic congestion in Whakatāne was increasing and provided ongoing issues

§  Would provide security with an alternate route when faced with flooding/tsunami

§  Would allow through traffic (i.e. Ōpōtiki to Tauranga) quicker access and be able to bypass Whakatāne township

§  Ōhope would gain a secondary access route to Whakatāne

§  Would open the Wainui area up for future housing and/or industrial growth

o   River sandbar

§  To address flood issues

§  Sandbar near the mouth of Whakatāne and Rangitāiki River (and other rivers in the area) to be kept low for flooding alleviation.

·       Acknowledged that requests relating to second bridge at Whakatāne needed to be raised at a political level.

10195

Individual

S15

Gordon Dickson

Key Points:

·       Was seeking legal advice regarding the legitimacy of this Council meeting/LTP hearings

·       Called on Cr Crosby to resign.

10233

Individual

S#

Terewai Kalman, Chairperson Rangitāiki River Forum and Te Taute Taiepa

Key Points:

·       Noted that this request for funding was submitted alongside the funding request in the joint submission to the Long Term Plan from the Rangitāiki River Forum (RRF) and the Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group (TARSG)

·       Summarised further tasks and funding required to ensure the RRF achieved its purpose:

·       Funding to build iwi member capability: $2,000 (Year 1), $2,000 (Year 2), $2,000 (Year 3)

o   Create an iwi member induction/succession planning programme : $1, 500 (Year 1)

o   Create a bespoke Cultural Impact Assessment (CIA) template: $12,000 (Year 3)

o   Annual field trip hosted by each iwi to allow members to walk and understand each part of the river: $5,000 (Year 1), $5,000 (Year 2), $5,000 (Year 3)

o   Seeking budget for fish friendly pump technology when pumps come up for renewal, to provide further protection for tuna/fish passage. Funding to sit with Council’s River & Drainage team.

10209

Rangitāiki River Forum

S16

Brian Gibbons

Key Points:

·       Expressed opposition to the proposed construction of a sea wall around the town of Whakatāne. Process lacked adequate consultation, peer review, potential adverse effects on the environment and local economy

·       Was concerned about the visual impact

·       Sea wall could impede access for boaties, hinder recreational activities and negatively impact local businesses reliant on marine tourism

·       Raised concerns about its effectiveness during flood events

·       Any decision to increase rates beyond the rate of inflation would be unjustifiable and burdensome for residents and commercial operators

·       Was essential to consider economic implications of such rate hikes, especially in the context of recovering from the ongoing challenges facing our community.

10350

Individual

S17

Derek Caudwell/David Bulley

Key Points:

·       Port of Tauranga shares: supported BOPRC’s preferred Option 2. A sell down would provide greater flexibility for the Council to consider how to best use investment returns and allocations to local impact investing

·       Fair and Equitable Councillor Representation: encouraged Council to consider an alternative representation model that considered drivers other than solely per capita representation

·       Overall, supported the BOPRC’s LTP and particularly its enhanced focus on climate change activity.

1:19 pm – Cr Campbell withdrew from the hearing.

10057

Trust Horizon

S18

Lorna Aikman and Sonia Edwards QSM

Provided tabled document 4.

Key Points:

·       Spoke in support of the Ōpōtiki Heritage and Agricultural Museum Charitable Trust application for the digitisation of the Ōpōtiki News from 1950

·       Ōpōtiki Museum Charitable Trust held the Ōpōtiki Newspapers as custodians since the recent closure of the News Office in Ōpōtiki 

·       The public would benefit from easy, comprehensive, access to this local newspaper

·       Highlighted the importance of preservation, not only for future generations but also for present day planners. Knowledge about the past was crucial in planning for the future

·       Ōpōtiki Museum was run by a Trust composed of volunteers

·       Requested $7,000 (Year 1), $7,000 (Year 2), $7,000 (Year 3).

1:25 pm – Cr Campbell joined the hearing.

10552

The Preserving Local History and Educational Trust (Te Pupuri I Nga Hitori o Te Rohe Trust)

S20

Frances Curtis / Pouroto Ngaropo / Terewai Kalman, Chairperson, Rangitāiki River Forum

Key Points:

·       Joint submission by iwi members of the Rangitāiki River Forum (RRF) and the Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group (TARSG)

·       Acknowledged the support received from BOPRC to enable the Secretariat position to be piloted over the last three years

·       The pilot had been a success

·       Requested continued secretariat funding for the next three years to provide support to the iwi members of both of these committees

·       Funding would help ensure the future success of the two river entities in providing a voice for these important environments

·       Provided details regarding future workplan

·       Requested $111,900 (Year 1), $91,900 (Year 2), $91,900 (Year 3).

10210

Rangitāiki River Forum/Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group Joint submission

S22

Teua Chapman/Pouroto Ngaropo

Key Points:

·       Supported Te Ara Poutama and its associated outcomes

·       As a hapū with a significant taonga within its responsibility, were currently organising themselves to better understand how to ensure the protection of this taonga for mokopuna

·       First step towards this, was the creation of a hapū management plan

·       Was seeking $30,000 to undertake necessary research, wānanga (both at Pupuaruhe and on Mōtiti) and engage appropriate support to formulate these plans.

10461

Te Patuwai Tribal

S24

Rob McGown/Kaewa Savage

Provided tabled documents 5, 6 and 7.

Key Points:

·       Recommended using a set of guiding principles that would be of real value to guide and measure the strategy and policy of the Council

·       Tīwaiwaka was based on six principles, drawn from Te Ao Māori but was found at the heart of almost all cultures

·       Principles provided a pathway to give a more certain future:

o   Caring for the whenua/earth was always the first priority. Everything must be measured against this. There were no exceptions, not even the economy

o   Mauri was found in the connections that enabled life to thrive

o   Role was to care for the mauri

o   ‘Get over ourselves and our personal ambitions’; these were luxuries no longer affordable

o   Must take special care of the tiniest living creatures; they were the key to sustainability.

10257

Tīwaiwaka Collective Incorporated

S#

Barry Roderick

Key Points:

·       Made submission on Kaituna Catchment Control Scheme. Identified risks and challenges for the Scheme

·       Global warming/threat of more intense rainfall events, sea level rise land sinkage from drainage and increased storm water runoff from hard surface development were all challenges to the integrity of the Kaituna Catchment Control Scheme

·       Whilst outside the scope of the Scheme, the erosion control plantings on the Ngongotahā upstream of the main Hamilton highway were past their use by date

·       Some of these trees needed removing and replacing otherwise they would effectively become slash in a major event and threaten downstream infrastructure

·       Low lying river flats upstream of Waitangi should be left as a ponding area for flood events. It would be a mistake to stopbank this section of the river

·       Kaituna Rail Bridge, Waiari Rail Bridge and Raparapahoe Rail Bridge were all prone to log jams causing structural damage

·       Agreed with BOPRC staff efforts to remove sediment from the latter three streams before it reached the Kaituna river

·       Discussion was needed about retiring land where flood protection could not be achieved

·       Poor water quality being discharged from the lowland pumping stations into the Kaituna River was of a major concern to the Scheme and needed to be addressed

·       BOPRC had been steadily improving fish passage and assisting in environmental projects.

10357

Individual

S27

Angela Fogerty

The submitter did not appear.

10441

Individual

S28

John Howard

Provided Tabled document 8.

Key Points:

·       Farming returns based on the last 10 to 20 years had not doubled in that time and were highly unlikely ever to double

·       Questioned whether the focus on a sustainable environment prevented  focussing on a sustainable farming community

·       Any rates rise should be kept to 10% or less. BOPRC needed to continue to make efficiency gains and cuts to lessen the impact on all ratepayers

·       Requested Council to get serious about spending encouraged going back to basics: to provide services in a cost-effective manner.

10343

Lanseair Farm

S29

John Howard / Gordon Dickson

Provided Tabled document 9.

Key Points:

·       Whakatāne-Tauranga river schemes rate forecasted doubling of rates up to the year 2032-33

·       Objected to this rate rise and called for it to be more in line with inflation

·       Who should pay for buses: supported Option 1 status quo; needed to reflect a fair system as urban centres had more opportunity to take advantage of buses and it was about getting people out of cars. Rural residents had little opportunity to catch a bus or use any other forms of transport

·       Selling Port of Tauranga shares: supported Option 1:  to retain current shareholding in the Port of Tauranga represented maintaining a majority stake holding which would be preferential to the other option.  Being minor shareholders would offer less control/ returns on investment. Returns formed a huge part of the income of the BOPRC

·       New regional parks: Supported Option 1. Enough food producing land has already been lost to forestry and the Emissions Trading Scheme

·       Climate Resilience: Bay of Plenty region was a large area, questioned the range that was provided by electric vehicles. Perhaps hybrid vehicles would be a better decision for Council

·       Second Bridge into Whakatāne: supported the need for a business case study to be completed for a second bridge into Whakatāne

·       Any rates rise should be kept to 10% or less. BOPRC encouraged to continue to make efficiency gains and cuts to lessen the impact on ratepayers.

Late

Whakatāne Action Group

S33

Nicola Dobson/Tracey Raureti/Sally McKay/Erin Tioke

Provided PowerPoint presentation 4.

Key Points:

·       Community was working together to develop a Matata Community Plan

·       Recently received significant feedback from over 150 community members via a survey. The findings have also been shared with Council

·       Was a positive opportunity to consolidate needs and aspirations/form stronger partnerships to progress the community, area and district

·       Matatā Wastewater Project:

o   Had documented long term proven contamination issues

o   Needed to protect the health/well-being of community members, visitors and environment

o   If no sustainable long term solution was found, Council would be considering a home buy back proposal which would exacerbate the housing shortage issues within the district. A buy back scheme could cost the district more than a wastewater system

o   BOPRC needed to provide funding to ensure this project was realised

·       Imperative for Council, to continue:

o   Acknowledging the evidence of the significant contamination issues for the community and the environment

o   Working with all potential partners to find a long term sustainable solution

·       He waka eke noa/were all in this together

·       Community loved its rohe, was passionate about the beautiful village and were eager to partner with BOPRC to improve spaces.

10269

Matatā Community Plan Group

S32

Janeane Joyce/Pouroto Ngaporo/Gavin Dennis/ Tiipene Marr

Provided PowerPoint presentation 5.

Key Points:

·       Provided historic overview of the project/Te Niaotanga ō Mataatua ō Te Arawa

·       Matatā currently lacked a reticulated wastewater system

·       Individual properties relied on on-site septic tanks, some of which were failing or were unsuitable due to high groundwater levels

·       Issues posed public health risks and contributed to environmental degradation (particularly in streams/ shallow groundwater flowing into Te Awa o Te Atua (Matatā Lagoon)

·       Had followed co-design approach/designing with tangata whenua of Matatā

·       Te Niaotanga ō Mataatua ō Te Arawa consisted of Ngāti Rangitihi/Tūwharetoa ki Kawerau/Ngāti Awa hapū (Ngāi Te Rangihouhiri; Ngāti Hikakino and Te Tawera)/three Whakatāne District Council (WDC) representatives, including two Councillors

·       Highlighted project benefits and outcomes

·       Status quo was untenable

·       Summary of submission

o   Te Niaotanga ō Mataatua ō Te Arawa requested acknowledgment from BOPRC that Whakatāne District Council would soon seek funding for an integrated wastewater system in Matatā

o   Partial external funding was needed for the project to progress as part of WDC's upcoming Long Term Plan.

o   Was seeking approximately $15 million from BOPRC (such as via the Regional Development Fund) to support the Matatā Wastewater Project

o   Te Niaotanga ō Mataatua ō Te Arawa supported increasing funding through the Regional Development Fund, as outlined in Te Mahere Tūroa Long Term Plan 2024-2034 Draft for Consultation / Wāhanga Tuarua – Volume Two

o   Urged BOPRC to increase funding further to adequately support upgrading the region's three-water infrastructure over the next decade.

o   Contribution was crucial to meeting modern legislative standards, community expectations, and cultural values.

10122

Te Niatonga A Mātaatua A Te Arawa

Name

Sub#

Organisation

S01

Pauline Tangohau / Aleisha Ewa Makarita Mitchell

Key Points:

·       Principal submission was that BOPRC should confirm its commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi through a Te Tiriti statement, and aligning its strategy and operational functions to give effect to the commitment

·       Rates Remission: Ngāti Whakaue 100% supported the following proposals of BOPRC:

o   proposed expanded definition of Māori Freehold Land for the purpose of rates remission

o   Rates remission based on the actual use of Māori Freehold Land

o   Rates remission for Māori Freehold Land that was being developed for economic use

o   Rates remission for Māori Freehold Land that was being developed for Papakāinga or other housing/accommodation

·       Supported the proposed Te Ara Poutama outcome

·       Procurement: requested that a model be used that supported Mana Whenua procurement. Noted that Te Arawa Lakes Trust did not represent Ngāti Whakaue on taiao matters/requested a more user-friendly system for procurement opportunities

·       Requested that consideration be given to support the establishment of the Ngāti Whakaue Taiao/Resource Management Unit in its own right

·       Requested a Memorandum of Understanding, outlining engagement with BOPRC/developing an annual plan for taiao initiatives in the catchment/region.

10549

Ngāti Whakaue

S02

Stu Herewini and Karena Ngata

Provided a PowerPoint presentation 1.

Key Points:

·       Sought support for Project: Sanitorium Reserve Ecological Restoration 2030

·       Nga Uri o Maui Trust and Te Kura Taiao Collective had been working in partnership with Iwi, mana whenua, Department of Conservation, Rotorua Lakes Council and local schools with the aim to create a predator-free conservation area for the restoration of at-risk native species, specifically within the Puarenga catchment

·       Highlighted Te Kura Taiao Collective’s progression to date

·       However, to continue the pest control mahi as a volunteering collective in the Sanitorium Reserve, support towards maintaining the involvement of key kaumatua, Māori advisors, school teacher assistance, professional/academic assistance and equipment was needed in order to meet the Collective’s outcomes

·       Requested funding: $50,587,54 (Year 1); $40,000 (Year 2, $40,000 (Year 3).

10713

Nga Uri o Maui Trust

S03

Grant Wallace

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 2

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 2

·       New Regional Parks: supported Option 1

·       Was living in ‘paradise’, however, it was critical to address the current challenges

·       Raised concern regarding corroded Lake Rotoiti’s Ohau Diversion Wall which required repairs as soon as possible within the 2024/25 year

·       Corrosion holes were affecting the lake water quality at the western end of Lake Rotoiti by letting the nutrient rich Lake Rotorua’s water into Lake Rotoiti; promoting algal blooms/excessive weed growth at the western end of the lake

·       In 2023 these problems were experienced to an extent not experienced since the wall was built in 2008

·       Advocated for urgent action/recladding.

Item for Staff follow-up:

·       Staff Report March 2024 to be shared with Mr Grant Wallace.

9259

Individual

S#

Danielle Marks / Radhika Dahya

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 2

·       Advocated that contractors/bus drivers be paid a living wage

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 1

·       Although preferred keeping the current shares, in the event of a sell down, shares should be given to Māori in the first instance (first right of refusal)

·       New Regional Parks: supported Option 2. Stressed that Iwi engagement was necessary for this kōrero to actualise its aspirations.

10079

Individual

S04

Nicki Hancock on behalf of Kahuariki Hancock

Key Points:

·       Sought direct investment for the establishment of a Mana whakahono a Rohe with the BOPRC to further enhance the commitments made by BOPRC in its consultation document

·       Supported the allocation of resources in the LTP to support:

o   Te Maru o Kaituna

o   Te Arawa Lakes Programme/RTALSG

o   Ongoing and direct investment in and protection of biodiversity and management of biosecurity in the Rotorua Lakes area with Ngāti Rangiwewehi

o   Investment in catchment protection via regional parks

·       Sought ongoing and direct investment in engagement with Ngāti Rangiwewehi on the development of a Regional Freshwater Plan and the development of the regional park in Rotorua

·       Requested support to develop own spatial mapping needs

·       Sought resourcing to develop a lake-based transportation option to support the growth and increase in housing in the Ngongotahā, Hamurana and Oturoa Rd area

·       In terms of sustainable development, requested that investment be allocated to a comprehensive assessment/significant investment in planning and policy development with iwi/investment in technology deployment for sustainability, a focus on ecosystem solutions and an increase in sound monitoring and compliance.

10475

Ngāti Rangiwewehi

S07

Michael Hancock

Key Points:

·       Māori Freehold Land Proposal 1 – Definition of land covered by the Māori Freehold Land (MFL) policy: supported the proposed change as it would positively impact whānau and neighbouring land blocks who were yet to develop land

·       Māori Freehold Land Proposal 2 – MFL being developed for economic use: noted the policy generally allowed  for a postponement of five years or less. Requested that Council consider a longer period of 10 years for MFL

·       Māori Freehold Land Proposal 3 – MFL being developed for papakāinga or other housing or accommodation: supported the ability for the remissions period to be extended beyond five years, provided the accommodation had not yet been occupied.

10193

Rotomā No1

S08

Alison Dewes

Provided Tabled document 1.

Key Points:

·       Supported the notion of regional parks, but also understood that a Rotorua Regional Park may be partially funded by the nitrogen incentives scheme in Rotorua

·       Requested transparency on the price being paid for nitrogen, given it was community/publicly sourced funds; should not come at an exorbitant cost to the community

·       Did not support the high cost of constructed wetlands: high cost for very minimal gain

·       Supported tree planting as a long-term vision for Freshwater

·       Provided feedback on the proposed plan change for management of the Little Waihi Freshwater Management Unit.

Item for Staff follow-up:

·       Invitation to be extended to Wai-Kokopu Technical Team to present to the next Monitoring and Operations Committee meeting.

10741

Wai-Kokopu Technical Team

S09

Deryck Shaw, Chair Wai-Kokopu

Key Points:

·       Wai-Kokopu supported BOPRC in its work programme in the catchment/wider region, with the inclusion of the following recommendations:

o   BOPRC to actively collaborate with Wai-Kokopu on restoring the health of the Waihi catchment

o   BOPRC to use the lower cost Tīmata Method

o   BOPRC to work with farmers and Wai Kokopu on the further development of detention bunds in the catchment

o   BOPRC to actively consider the development of a wetland system in the Waihi estuary on the low lying farmland as a regional park

o   Did not support the high cost of constructed wetlands in the catchment (high cost for marginal gains)

o   BOPRC to work with Wai-Kokopu on more long term plans for the catchment which included funding allocations to support the plans

·       Supported the investigations by the Regional Council on the two potential locations for new Regional Parks. Should actively consider the purchase of some of the low lying land within the Waihi catchment for wetland development.

10744

Wai-Kokopu

S10

Daryn Bean

Provided Tabled document 2.

Key Points:

·       Managed sell-down of the Port of Tauranga Limited shareholding:

o   Agreed in principle based on iwi participation and shared decision-making within this process

o   Supported the voices of hapu and iwi around a portion of shares being available for hapu and iwi to purchase on a first right of refusal basis

o   Requested that consultation not be rushed to meet deadlines, allowing ample time for addressing concerns raised during the development stage

o   Additionally, the Trust opposed any foreign ownership acquisition during this managed sell down process

·       New opportunities for Regional Parks

o   Supported hapu and iwi participation in the investigation towards areas for new regional parks

o   To invest in land within Te Arawa; investing in land would provide significant benefits to Te Arawa such as protection for biodiversity, water quality, erosion and sediment protection, economic benefits and protection of culturally significant sites

o   Proposal lacked clarity around the role of hapu and iwi; raised concerns about investigatory works and the inclusion of customary practices and mātauranga Māori in this process

o   To prioritise hapū and iwi involvement in investigatory works in the regional parks in question/to allocate sufficient resources for hapū and iwi to ensure iwi voices and cultural knowledge in decision-making and planning

·       Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group (RTALSG): RTALSG, via Te Arawa Lakes Trust, be resourced effectively through the Long-Term Plan to ensure the ongoing maintenance and improvement of the lakes water quality. Effective resources should be decided by the group with the intention of funding the following initiatives: Catfish eradication/ Biosecurity Officers/Dive Surveillance/ Education and Awareness; and Community Engagement

·       Emphasised the importance of prioritising hapū and iwi participation in any decisions on these matters. Advocated for sustainable development aligned with Te Arawa values and meaningful engagement in decision-making processes.

10261

Te Arawa Lakes Trust

S11

Haydn Read (via Zoom)

Provided PowerPoint presentation 2 and Tabled document 7.

Key Points:

·       Worked to encourage growth/development of aquaculture in the Bay of Plenty. In the past the Regional Council (through Priority One) had been a strong supporter of the Group by funding/co-funding regional events

·       Support was important, relevant and welcomed, especially in the areas of local hui, knowledge sharing, community summits and industry workshops

·       There was a compelling case for continued aquaculture development in the Bay of Plenty region

·       Workforce development was a primary driver

·       Key recommendation for aquaculture in the Bay of Plenty region was to continue to focus on and support those initiatives already in place, such as development of the existing space, the Ōpōtiki marine precinct, the Whakatōhea Mussels Ōpōtiki Limited (WMOL) workforce development programme, the Te Huata spat hatchery and the research and education programmes undertaken by Toi Ohomai and the University of Waikato

·       As the next step, a spatial plan was required for aquaculture in the Bay of Plenty which would give optics and insights into the opportunities for development, alongside those that were already underway

·       Suggested next steps were:

o   Develop a broad strategy for aquaculture in the region, encompassing an overarching vision for the wellbeing outcomes anticipated and the aquaculture requirements to achieve those outcomes

o   Catalyse an over-arching spatial plan for aquaculture in the Bay of Plenty to help ensure harmonisation and leverage of the past, current and future investments

o   Develop a ‘connectivity hub’ to encourage collaboration where appropriate and enable a collective overview

o   Identify key priorities for investor and funding support in the short, medium and longer term.

9674

Bay of Plenty Aquaculture Group

S12

Arapeta Tahana

Key Points:

·       Vision of Te Tokotoro o Manawakotokoto was dependent on its ability to effectively monitor and care for the Mauri of the environment. This required a dedicated resource to work with the environment, the people and key stakeholders

·       Requested support to establish a Tari Taiao - an environmental office to actively monitor and care for Mauri alongside other partners/to empower mana whenua to actively connect and care for the place of belonging

·       High Level Details of the concept included:

o   2 uri from iwi co-ordinating Taiao mahi to achieve purpose

o   Advisory group of experienced Ahi Kaa environmental practitioners

o   Establishment of systems and technology for efficient and effective monitoring of Mauri (including ground truthing), and RMA consent activity within our rohe

o   Connecting with/lobbying key stakeholders to bring greater resourcing and action to environmental restoration

o   Establishing and facilitating our long term (100yrs) Mauri Ora plan

o   Transitioning operational monitoring and restoration activities to hapu and iwi, as our capability and capacity develops/ we validate our ability to be more efficient and effective

·       BOPRC/TLA Investment requested: $260k per annum over 10 years (10% of annual Māori Land Rates contribution)

10348

Te Tokotoro o Manawakotokoto

S13

Arapeta Tahana

Key Points included:

·       Fully supported the proposed rates remission and postponement policy regarding Māori Freehold Land.

10225 9721 10354

Te Tokotoro o Manawakotokoto/ Atirangi Tahana Whanau Trust

S14

Julie Riggir / Jill Walker / Robyn Skerrett

Provided tabled Document 3.

Key Points:

·       Requested that BOPRC work in partnership with Rotorua Lakes Council and Te Arawa Lakes Trust to source funding with which to complete the sewerage reticulation scheme in Ōtautū Bay/Kennedy Bay communities of Lake Rotoehu

·       There was potential for ecological/environmental damage to Lake Rotoehu resulting from 2023 flooding which inundated parts of the two communities and several septic tanks

·       Expressed concern regarding old, or poorly maintained tanks leaching domestic wastewater into the natural environment, contaminating bore water, ground water and the lake, potentially adding to the increase of aquatic plant growth and toxic algal blooms

·       Health and well-being of lake users compromised and the habitat of fish and aquatic species damaged with botulism a risk

·       Diverse bird life and peaceful, natural habitat were key features of these lakeside communities, hence requested that the health and well-being of these unique areas be protected

·       Reiterated urgent request for a combined effort by the BOPRC, Rotorua Lakes Council and Te Arawa Lakes Trust to source funding necessary to complete the sewerage reticulation scheme.

10113

Various – Group from Lake Rotoehu Ōtautū Bay Kennedy Bay

S17

Darren McGarvie, Rachel McGarvie and Anna Grayling

Provided PowerPoint presentation 3.

Key Points:

·       Community of likeminded individuals who were passionate about the prosperity of Rotorua and its people

·       Delivered free-to-attend events that not only provided inspirational stories and connectivity for the leaders, business owners and professionals in Rotorua, but also encouraged and supported new/existing charitable and commercial enterprises, especially those founders and leaders who were women, Māori and younger

·       Requested three year funding commitment for regular Connect events/larger annual events with partners such as RotoruaNZ, Firestation, Kiwibank, and Rotorua Trust

·       Rotorua X was also bearing the brunt of cost of living crisis and extraordinarily high levels of inflation

·       Long standing sponsors were reducing or simply not renewing their financial support as part of an understandably short term focus on reducing "discretionary expenses"

·       Requested funding: $9,999 (Year 1); $7,499 (Year 2, $4,999 (Year 3).

10571

Rotorua X

S18

Donald Atkinson / Geoff Dainty / John Gifford

Provided PowerPoint presentation 4 and tabled Documents 4 and 5.

Key Points:

·       Submission requests relating to Ohau Diversion Wall:

o   Proposed funding of $1.6m in year 2025/26 was too late, require funds in 2024/25

o   Needed to commit funding to fully repair entire wall ($10m in Year 2029/30)

o   Urgent temporary repairs had to be undertaken to cover the holes and restore the integrity of the wall

o   Needed to  ascertain the root cause of the corrosion

o   Redesign and repair the wall: work to be complete within 5 years/to ensure it met the required 50 year life

o   To include adequate funding for above in LTP

o   To establish liability for design errors

o   Requested an independent review into the ‘fitness for purpose’ of the wall to meet the objectives of the Rotorua Lakes Restoration Programme. This would ensure that an appropriate wall management regime for the future was established.

Item for Staff follow-up:

·       To provide attachments referenced in documentation regarding the Ohau Diversion Wall as requested by the LWQS.

LATE SUB

Lakes Water Quality Society (LWQS)

S19

Emma Jones / Heidi Hughes (via Zoom)

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 2 

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 2

·       New Regional Parks: supported Option 2

·       Mount Maunganui air quality: highlighted that urgent action was needed to stop further degradation to the community - amount of environmental degradation that has been allowed to happen in the Mount was egregious

·       Whareroa Marae/Ngāti Kuku had been subjected to appalling levels of pollution on an ongoing basis to land, water and air

·       Called for improving the health and well-being of all who work, live, play in or visited Mount Maunganui

·       Clear the Air requested:

o   Targeted Industrial Rate on emitting industries

o   Resource consent requirement for all businesses emitting to air in the Mount Maunganui Industrial Area

o   BOPRC to facilitate a clear pathway to transition heavy air emitters away from the Mount Maunganui Industrial Area

o   Quayside Holdings to work proactively with emitting businesses/industries to transition to somewhere in the region at fit for purpose industrial sites such as Tauriko, Rangiuru.

10087

Clear the Air Mount Maunganui Charitable Trust

S27

Sir Henry van der Heyden (apology from Libby Fletcher)

Key Points:

·       Sought a Long-Term Plan commitment from BOPRC for a further contribution to a funding solution for the reticulation of Lake Tarawera's wastewater to the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Rotorua

·       Objectives were:

o   Uniting the community/assembling relevant information

o   Lobbying Rotorua Lakes Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council and Central Government for additional funding for the scheme

o   To ensure that costs to landowners connecting to the scheme were as low as possible/providing cost certainty to landowners connecting to the scheme

o   Ensuring funding equity to landowners at Lake Tarawera/was as affordable to every other community

o   Ensuring completion as soon as possible

·       Sought Long-Term Plan commitment from BOPRC of a contribution to a 50/50 funding solution for the reticulation of the Lake Tarawera community's wastewater to the Wastewater Treatment Plant in Rotorua

·       Concerned that building costs had been increasing incrementally each year.

10353

Lake Tarawera Sewerage Working Group

S28

Ray Gatland  

Provided PowerPoint presentation 5.

Key Points:

·       Requested funding for the Lake Tarawera Wastewater Reticulation Scheme

·       Requested that BOPRC endorsed that a fair contribution from property owners was 50% of the project cost and that Council provided additional funding to the scheme to reduce the cost share to owners

·       The cost of the project was $29 m/existing subsidies from BOPRC, RLC and central government totalled $8.1m/446 property owners would fund 67% of the project cost. This equalled approximately  $50,000 per property

·       Regional Council was being requested to contribute a greater share of the capital cost of a scheme that enhanced lake water quality

·       Council had a fundamental role in promoting the social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being of communities in the present and the future

·       Scheme would provide a superior lake water quality outcome than that prescribed by Council’s On-site Effluent Treatment (OSET) requirements

·       Council was a direct economic beneficiary of the reticulation scheme versus the alternative of implementing OSET replacement under its own management, then managing quality and compliance for individual on site wastewater systems in perpetuity.

·       Everyone gained from improved water quality of iconic Lake Tarawera: locally, regionally, nationally, and internationally

·       LTRA requested that the Regional Council endorsed that a reasonable contribution from property owners was 50% of the project cost and that Council both provided additional funding to the scheme and collaborated with Rotorua Lakes Council and central government to reduce the cost share to owners

·       Additional funding of $6 1 m was required

·       The 446 property owners would fund 50% of the project cost. That equated to about $37,000 per property, which would be capped.

10352

Lake Tarawera Ratepayers Association

S29

Patrice Gatland

Provided PowerPoint presentation 6.

Key Points:

·       Submission on the Lake Tarawera Wastewater Reticulation Scheme

·       Tarawera community had championed the lake water quality cause for many years

·       Advocated wastewater reticulation at Tarawera from the time that option was developed for other lakes in the region

·       Fully participated in the steering group which recommended the reticulation option

·       Community also provided for improved understanding of lake water science and had a dedicated fund for this effort

·       Inflow sampling and analysis of up to 36 different sites by volunteers four times a year (commencing in 2006 and instigated by Tarawera resident Terry Beckett) had led to a long term record, which was unprecedented on lakes in New Zealand

·       LTRA had a long association with the University of Waikato and had assisted with funding the monitoring buoy in the centre of the lake; a land based climate station and the cost of analysing the quarterly surface water samples for many years

·       Collaboration with the University of Waikato was providing the growing body of knowledge required to better inform lake water quality decisions. Ongoing research included a ground water monitoring project to assess the scheme’s impact.

10267

Individual

S#

Dr Tanira Kingi

Key Points:

·       Supported opportunities for developing partnerships between BOPRC and Te Arawa Māori and Iwi authorities along with Te Arawa Arataua to help achieve the community outcomes of the Long Term Plan

·       Actively involved in working with BOPRC to develop practical guidelines and processes for implementing Te Mana o Te Wai/seeking support to extend this work into Freshwater Management, working with BOPRC to develop policies around Freshwater Farm Plans and supporting Iwi Māori to become certifiers and auditors in this process to ensure mātauranga Māori and tikanga were considered

·       Was supportive of a transition towards a low emissions economy and providing nature-based solutions to enhance the environment. Sought BOPRC’s support to participate in the development of new low emissions/high value economic businesses to provide sustainable employment for members and iwi Māori

·       Sought BOPRC support to provide coordination and implementation of large-scale planting of native trees across member blocks

·       Supportive of improved urban design that fostered  strong communities amongst iwi Māori to improve well-being and life outcomes

·       Sought streamlined processes for the building of papakāinga and hapū housing on Māori land in areas with regional infrastructure development that produced jobs

·       Supportive of sustainable development in the face of the many climate change challenges ahead for Māori land entities.

·       Sought support to develop/implement spatial climate adaptation and resilience plans for members, hapū and iwi along with support for investment into climate adaptation infrastructure in partnership with Māori.

10369

Ta Arawa Arataua

S06

Cyrus Hingston

Provided Tabled document 6.

Key Points:

·       Interests were within Ōkataina caldera, and surrounds

·       Submission was made on uri's behalf to ensure the preservation of whenua, moana and interests for future generations:

o   Bio Security: requested that Corbicula Fluminea (Asian Golden Clam) be added to the Regional Pest Management Plan and the development and implementation of an effective Exclusion programme be established

·       In dealing with central government agencies on working to prevent incursion of Corbicula Fluminea to Ōkataina, Ngāti Tarawhai had found that:

o   Agencies were slow to act/approach was reactive, rather than proactive. Initial action was to monitor and 'passively inform' the public/practical steps to prevent inadvertent spread was not 'front of mind'/had inadequate resourcing/was too far removed from the problem/local solutions were required

·       Requested that BOPRC provide adequate resources to the development and implementation of an Exclusion Plan

·       Supported Ngāti Whakaue's submission regarding the BOPRC’s procurement process around 'te taiao' and Mana Whenua/to have a system in place where Ngāti Tarāwhai had first right of refusal regarding procurement around monitoring, cultural assessments, biosecurity and other programs to do within our tribal boundaries.

10280

Ngāti Tarawhai Iwi Trust

S30

Maramena Vercoe

Key Points:

·       Believed transport should be subsidised; perhaps the use of minibuses or vans would be more cost effective for Murupara

·       Port of Tauranga shares: suggested that an iwi investment/investment in iwi should be considered, for the purpose of building capability, leadership and partnerships

·       Supported investment in regional parks and the commitment to building partnerships with tangata whenua based on Te Tiriti o Waitangi and Te Whakputanga o Niu Tereni. Expected that these parks be bound by a commitment to protect the environmental and resource values that were promoted for the enjoyment of all and not available for commercialisation

·       Te Mana o Te Wai: since water/water quality were fundamental to Ngāti Manawa’s culture and spirituality, would continue to work with Council regarding the future management of the water supply for Murupara

·       Natural Hazards and Disasters: since Ngāti Manawa was vulnerable to potential natural hazards/disasters, emergency training for selected hapū members would support not only our Marae planning and preparation but support iwi to build the capability and skills in times of emergency

·       Climate Change impact on Marae: would require plans to be made to reduce risk. There was a need to bring people into the climate change mindset

·       Housing and employment to be addressed

·       Welcomed the partnership approach from Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council

·       Proposed that the Council funded a hui twice a year to bring all iwi, whanau and hapū together

·       Resource support: Te Runanga o Ngāti Manawa would appreciate support to access resources – expertise/tools/templates/specialist advice, including opportunities to build the capability of people across the board.

10344

Ngāti Manawa

Name

Sub#

Organisation

S1

Mark Wassung

Provided PowerPoint presentation 1.

Key Points:

·       Presented KUPENGA - proposed new urban link and transport network enabling transformational modal shift for Tauranga for local residents, visitors and tourists. Would form transport network in a central location of Tauranga – aimed at reducing congestion

·       Aligned with the Government Policy Statement (GPS) for Transport being safe, accessible, affordable and sustainable

·       Could potentially be a Public-private partnership (PPP)

·       Concept of Tatū Arrive – Tauranga Aerial Transport United - Masterplan Design Description

·       Concepts have been shared with Tauranga City Council/have collaborated with Māori/iwi/hapū on the name and shared with Tourism Bay of Plenty/Bay Venues

·       Next step would be a presentation to Tauranga System Plan (TSP) and SmartGrowth.

9882

Individual

S2

Tracy May, on behalf of Waikato Regional Council

Waikato Regional Council did not appear.

9933

Waikato Regional Council

S4

Hayden Henry on behalf of Riri Ellis

Key Points:

·       Hapū was committed to ensuring that unique perspective/concerns were acknowledged and genuinely heard and taken into account

·       Any decisions made by Council directly influenced community/whānau

·       Meaningful engagement with hapū was essential to developing strategies that were culturally sensitive/sustainable/inclusive

·       Supported preferred option of rates funding for public transport in urban centres coming from 90% targeted and 10% general rates

·       Acknowledged that people in areas more distant from public transport networks would contribute more towards transport, which they may consider unfair

·       Port of Tauranga shares: Ngāi Tūkairangi Hapū should be the first group to have a Right of First Refusal (RFR) opportunity to acquire up to 25% of the available shares at a discounted rate of 25% reduction in share value

·       Requested to be part of a collective hapū approach to having RFRs put in place for the repatriation of the shares for sale to our hapū

·       New regional parks: somewhat supportive/would however like more information around what the local mana whenua view is on the proposed locations

·       Hapū Management Plan: requested resourcing for the development and implementation of a Hapū Management Plan

·       Kaitiakitanga: seeking resources to employ a part-time coordinator to engage with council on environmental project opportunities. Utilising hapū resource management planning and resourcing we seek to engage with the Māori Policy and Science teams to implement initiatives that support this vision

·       Climate Change: Māori and marae communities needed more support for future proofing whenua from effects of climate change. Requested engagement

·       Stressed that Whareroa Marae was in dire need of stormwater drainage measures

·       Was looking forward to engaging with Council further, embracing the challenges and opportunities, shaping a sustainable and vibrant community.

10361

Ngai Tūkairangi Hapū Trust

S3

Glen Crowther / Beth Hughes

Key Points:

·       Funding of public transport: supported Option 1: Rates funding for public transport in urban areas across the Bay of Plenty comes 100% from targeted rates

·       Regional parks: Supported Option 2: Council should investigate new opportunities for regional parks

·       Proposed Rates Policies: opposed ongoing high levels of Fixed Charges/Opposed splitting the Transport rate between General Rate and Public Transport (PT) Rate

·       SmartGrowth: was deeply concerned at the lack of alignment between the SmartGrowth Strategy and TCC’s Long Term Plan/lack of robust discussion

·       Economic Sustainability: territorial authorities were facing an unsustainable financial situation, urged BOPRC to add your significant voice to nationwide discussions within local government/central government, at SmartGrowth on matters relating to funding/funding tools/greenfield sprawl

·       Environmental Sustainability:  some key environmental issues that needed addressing included: reducing gross greenhouse gas emissions/existing airshed issues in Mount Maunganui/unlocking a more sustainable urban growth model that resulted in less environmental devastation

·       Port of Tauranga shares: supported the preferred option of BOP residents who make submissions.

10349

Sustainable Bay of Plenty

S6

Ali Wieringa

Provided a PowerPoint presentation (with video) via below link and tabled documents 1 and 2.

https://prezi.com/view/PV8rtUmTzF3ImY9QTS7g/

Key Points:

·       Provided life-saving water safety education for children/ensured community could safely enjoy the water

·       Mission was to empower children with the knowledge and skills they needed to feel confident/stay safe around water

·       Aquatic Survival Skills Program was a free program, supporting teachers in teaching aquatic survival skills at primary schools level/helped save lives and reduce drownings

·       Requested $30,000 (Year One), $40,000 (Year2),  $50,000 (Year 3)

·       Focused efforts/increased investment were directed towards communities/regions that reported higher frequencies of drowning incidents

·       Since swimming was not in the education curriculum, water safety was a community responsibility. Needed to unite on this important matter.

10477

Aquatic Survival Skills Trust

S5

Larissa Cuff / Danene Jones

Key Points:

·       Appreciated the role Regional Council played in enabling physical activity via the provision and maintenance of green spaces

·       Aimed to increase physical activity and enhance community well-being, aligning with Regional Council’s goals

·       Supported the proposed investment in a new Regional Park/any opportunities that promoted physical activity

·       Currently developing the Bay of Plenty Spaces and Places Strategy - a comprehensive Bay of Plenty play, active recreation and sports strategy to be completed by the end of 2026; invited Regional Council to participate in the strategy conception..

10118

Sport Bay of Plenty

S7

Riki James / Rory Bragg

Key Points:

·       Submitted on fees and charges

·       First of its kind in the Bay of Plenty/applied for a collective/global consent

·       One resource consent/one point of contact for all of the users

·       Invested significantly in the consenting process/have developed a monitoring and reporting tool using Ricado (All flowmeter data was collected and monitored in Ricado)

·       To monitor compliance with water user agreements to ensure compliance with consent conditions. Stream flow would be monitored /water use to be scheduled during low flow conditions

·       Wanted to ensure that the group did not pay twice: to the water user group itself and to Council to monitor compliance

·       Significant efficiencies to be gained by Council by working together with one consent holder as opposed to multiple consent holders

·       Could be used as an example for other surface water bodies in the region

·       New collaborative model for managing compliance which could result in resource and cost savings for Council

·       Ngāti Mākino Iwi supportive of the concept and was seeking changes in their working relationship with Regional Council/saw this as an opportunity to do so.

10230

Waitahanui Water User Group

S8

Debz Turner

Key Points:

·       Funding for buses should be provided by Council

·       Expressed concerned about the following:

·       wastage due to running buses not in service

·       bus services taking very long

·       empty buses

·       Bus 21 (Mt Maunganui – Bayfair – Pāpāmoa Plaza) not providing services aligned with workings hours being from 8 am to 5 pm

·       Recent increase in bus fares

·       Called for action to stop wasting rate payers’ money/more efficiency in operating the bus service

·       Suggested using smaller buses.

9376

Individual

S#

Bill Capamagian

Provided tabled document 3.

Key Points:

·       Was distinguished Fellow of the Institute of Directors/Fellow of Chartered Accountants Australia/New Zealand

·       Was appalled that BOPRC was contemplating reducing its 54% in the Port of Tauranga

·       Port was most basic and important asset of the Regional Council

·       Sweet spot with 54% of shares and having control of the Port of Tauranga

·       Was concerned about possible foreign ownership

·       Port of Tauranga shares should never have been considered as part of diversified portfolio

·       Needed the economic prosperity.

9566

Individual

S9

Nathan York

Key Points:

·       Highlighted importance to ensure significant private and public investments were not compromised by poor planning decisions

·       Public Transport: advocating for user-based service and operational efficiency, suggesting collaboration between Regional Council, Central Government and local councils for infrastructure improvements

·       Port Ownership: opposed the sale of port assets, emphasising the difference between blocking and shaping decisions, and the strategic importance of maintaining a controlling stake

·       Investment concerns/questioning the rationale behind selling port assets to repatriate funds from perpetual preference shares, and the lack of detailed benefits or costs associated with the sale

·       Highlighted that diversification would not address systemic risks like economic recessions or geopolitical issues

·       Seeking clarification on the independence of advice from Cameron and Partners if they were involved in the sale

·       Regional Parks: supported new opportunities for regional parks with clear, transparent criteria for performance assessment and development

·       Flood risk management was a significant issue for the region/significant bottle necks in stormwater modelling work

·       Stormwater Management: called for current and reliable information, a unified approach to stormwater modelling and alignment..

10459

Bell Road Land Partnership

S10

Nathan York

·       Refer submission S9.

10460

Bluehaven Investments Ltd

S11

Nigel Tutt

Key Points:

·       Recognised/supported the important role of BOPRC in the protection and maintenance of environment/climate change

·       Supported Council’s proposal to discontinue Bay of Connections

·       Region’s economic development agencies were well aligned/capable. Recommend Council divest any cost savings from Bay of Connections directly to the region’s economic development agencies so that BOPRC could contribute to economic development and wellbeing

·       Strongly support Council’s proposal to diversify investment risk by undertaking a managed sell down of its Port of Tauranga shareholding to no less than 28%. Urged Council to ensure that due consideration be given to investing any potential future increase in returns into regional infrastructure as opposed to rates reduction

·       Acknowledged Regional Council’s solid management of the asset to date

·       Highlighted the massive infrastructure deficit. Encouraged active involvement by BOPRC to address infrastructure needs

·       Supported Council’s proposal to spread the cost of urban bus services more equitably across the region, recognising the wider benefits of public transport to the region

·       Supported Council’s proposal to investigate new opportunities for regional parks.

10194

Priority One

S12

Keni Piahana

Provided PowerPoint presentation 2.

Key Points:

·       Riparian Management:

o   Expressed concern about log dam (Waimapu River) which had existed for months without any response to requests for help

o   Concerned about cumulative effect of eroding the bank below Urupa - hight of the erosion has risen with recent floods

o   Expected engagement with Ngāti Ruahine in resolving outstanding issue to avoid further property damage to the Waimapu Pa marae lands

·       Water Quality and Environmental Values:

o   Seeking to restore the river’s safety, water quality, and ecological values. Urgent need for riparian planting and water quality monitoring

·       Public Transport Support:

o   Supported public transport for intergenerational benefits

o   Suggested a more equitable cost distribution to benefit all residents

o   Acknowledged minimal public transport use for some individuals

·       Ngāti Ruahine partnership aspirations to have with Council, was the same as expressed by Council in its community outcomes, particularly striving for excellence.

Item for staff follow-up

·       Staff to follow-up log dam (Waimapu River)/response required.

10558

Ngāti Ruahine

S13

Irene Walker / Anthony Ririnui / Keni Piahana

Cr McDonald declared a conflict of Interest in this submission.

Provided PowerPoint presentation 3.

Key Points:

·       Joint submission by Ngāi Te Ahi, Ngāti He , Ngāti Ruahine

·       Requested support for Project Tāpaetanga: Rongomau (language of peace and understanding/acknowledged the value of meaningful conversation/to create safe spaces to discuss the issues of concerns on our minds, strengthening our resolve to find understanding and reassuring peace and balance)

·       Here to support Te Ara Pounamu – the pursuit of excellence

·       Provided a cultural map

·       Kaupapa was about

o   Te Taiao/Climate Change (coastal erosion impacting whenua and awa/waterways and moana/tahuna)

o   Growth (degradation of Wāhi tapu, breeding grounds of tuna, mahinga kai, plants and wildlife)

o   Mana O Te Wai (Waimapu, Waiorahi & Rangataua, Kaitemako Waters)

o   Matāuranga, Mana Motuhake, Rangatiratanga

·       Recommendations:

o   Tūhonohono: wanted to participate in all operational activities for the taiao within rohe as described per cultural map

o   Mātauranga Māori: requested support/lead Māori in building capacity and capabilities using Mātauranga Māori

o   He Korowai - E wha ngā pou o te ora: Tiaki te Taiao/Aroha/Whakamana Tangata/Mātauranga

o   Mana Motuhake: Decision making..

10557

Ngai Te Ahi Hapū

S14

Richard Coles

Provided tabled document 4.

Key Points:

·       Presented on behalf of Heb Land Holding Limited (HLHL)

·       Supported Option 2: enable a reduction in Port of Tauranga Shares to a minimum of 28%

·       The ability for Quayside Holdings Limited (QHL) to diversify its Investment portfolio and access close to $1b was supported as there were QHL regionally significant development and infrastructure projects that could benefit.  Among these projects were the Rangiuru Business Park (RBP)

·       Whilst supportive of the divestment, HLHL recommended an enabling strategy was taken by QHL with respect to RBP infrastructure development to support the supply of affordable business land within the sub-region

·       This approach would assist QHL to recoup the significant investment in RBP enabling infrastructure as soon as possible

·       This may be beyond the scope of the LTP submission but was raised to frame the context of the HLHL submission

·       A future investment opportunity would be to establish additional housing supply within the nearby catchment of RBP including Paengaroa, Pongakawa and other nearby residential areas. This would enhance the live, work, play outcome sought by SmartGrowth, while meeting the government’s other national strategic goals such as reducing vehicle kilometres travelled

·       HLHL was supportive of the Option 2 - share sell down to provide the opportunity for these alternate investment strategies to be considered.

10262

Heb Land Holding Limited

S15

Avan Polo / Donna Pfefferle

Minute note: Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) provided a copy of the speaker notes after the hearing - incorporated below.

Key Points:

·       Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) had the responsibility to ensure the safety of constituents along the regions east coast beaches

·       Surf Lifesaving were critical first responders in the ‘Emergency Chain’

·       Unprecedented growth in demand (due to population increases/visitors number increases/extreme weather event responses/search & rescue activities

·       No longer just “operated between the flags”

·       Acknowledged the funding provided through the Regional Safety Services Fund (RSRS)

·       Current funding recommendation was insufficient to meet the identified evidence-based needs of the region

·       SLSNZ seeking the appropriate level of funding to meet the evidence based needs of a paid lifeguard service in the Bay of Plenty:

o   To fund lifeguarding services to 2023/2024 level plus 5.1% increase for the coming 2024/2025 $349,983

o   Provide a consistent level of funding for 2025/2026 & 2026/2027 years to ensure a consistent level of lifeguarding services.

o   An increase aligned with the appropriate indexing rates for 2025/2026 & 2026/2027.

10553

Surf Life Saving New Zealand

S17

Liz Davies / Liz Steward

Key Points:

·       Endorsed BOPRC’s community outcomes, especially those related to connected communities and the pursuit of excellence

·       Climate Change Action Plan: advocated for an equity lens in the plan, recognising the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable populations

·       Development and Financial Policies: supported the integration of Te Tiriti o Waitangi principles in financial contribution rules

·       Volunteer Services: commended BOPRC’s recognition of volunteer importance

·       Public Transport: supported public transport improvements (Option 2) but was seeking more information on how it would benefit non-urban residents

·       Port Shareholding: supported the proposal to reduce shareholding to no less than 28%, emphasising that proceeds should support environmental, social, and cultural outcomes

·       Regional Parks: encouraged further investigation into potential regional parks near Katikati; highlighted the benefits for the community and environment.

10274

SociaLink

S19

Doug Owens

Provided tabled document 5.

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 1 (Status Quo): Rates funding for public transport in urban areas across the Bay of Plenty comes 100% from targeted rates

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 1 (Status Quo): Retain current shareholding in Port of Tauranga

·       Expressed concerns about the mismanagement of Quayside, particularly in diversifying its investment portfolio and property assets

·       Highlighted a need for an independent study to review Quayside’s structure and the importance of protecting New Zealand’s strategic port assets

·       Proposal has not indicated what BOPRC intended to do with funds raised by the proposed sale

·       Questioned Council’s approach to consultation and decision-making regarding the sell-down of equity in strategic assets.

10227

Individual

S20

Pascale Hyboud-Peron

Provided PowerPoint presentation 4 and tabled document 6.

Key Points:

·       Focused on the empowerment of young people; would like to continue to provide channels to and from young people who were deeply invested in the care of our whenua

·       Vision was a future where young people could contribute actively to New Zealand's economic, social, and environmental prosperity. Goal was to increase access to innovative tools, networks, and experiences by providing support through mentors, skill-building programs, and a strong community network

·       Batch-Whenua Care was a 12-week accelerator for youth (18-24) to transform ideas into viable economic projects

·       Offered mentorship/workshops/seed funding/ focussing on sustainability/critical skills and community impact

·       Was seeking $25,000 annually to empower the next generation in nurturing our environment and fostering sustainable communities.

9843

Stand Tall Community Trust

S#

Ian Dustin

Provided tabled document 7.

Key Points:

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 2 (Preferred Option): enable a reduction (by Quayside) in Port of Tauranga Shares to a minimum of 28%

·       Main concern was that the historical shareholding that had greatly benefitted the Region and its ratepayers in the form of an intergenerational endowment fund were maintained by way of a swap out of assets from the shares into a land holding that would be a strategic asset, continuing to benefit the Region long into the future

·       Proposed purchasing land within the Rangiuru Business Park to add to Quayside’s land stock

·       Suggests connecting land to the port via rail

·       Emphasised that owning land at the Rangiuru Business Park connected by rail to the port would enhance the port’s capacity to meet future regional needs

·       Argued that this investment would provide intergenerational dividends and was an appropriate use of funds from the proposed sell-down of shares.

9871 9820

Individual

S21

Melvyn Fountain

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 1 (Status Quo): Rates funding for public transport in urban areas across the Bay of Plenty comes 100% from targeted rates

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 1 (Status Quo): Retain current shareholding in Port of Tauranga

·       Proposed a multi joint venture/project to be included in the Long Term Plan, namely a cruise ship terminal in the shape of a cruise ship featuring an information centre, tourism bookings, a café, a bus depot, toilets, and a customs control point

·       Suggested that a meeting be arranged to enable an opportunity to provide further detail regarding funding options/revenue benefits.

9538

Individual

S22

John Robson

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 1 (Status Quo): Rates funding for public transport in urban areas across the Bay of Plenty comes 100% from targeted rates, on the basis of the principles of beneficiary pays/transparency

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 2 (Our Preferred Option): Enable a reduction (by Quayside) in Port of Tauranga Shares to a minimum of 28% (our preferred option), on the basis of lower risk through diversification

·       New Regional Parks: supported Option 2 (Our Preferred Option): Yes - Council should investigate new opportunities for regional parks

·       Emphasised the need for honesty and strategic alignment in city planning and management

·       Current SmartGrowth strategy was ineffective/ lacking strategic alignment, and failing to meet the city’s needs

·       Stressed the importance of aligning budgets with political aspirations, stating that plans without budgets were equivalent to broken promises

·       Warned against swapping revenue-generating assets for expenditure-inducing ones, urging for a consideration of both capital expenditures (CapEx) and operational expenditures (OpEx)

·       Highlighted the need for a more progressive rating structure and suggested that it was possible to make changes despite structural issues.  

10252

Individual

S23

Catherine De Monchy

The submitter did not appear.

10013

Individual

S24

Sue Lund and Lauren Boyd

Provided PowerPoint presentation 5.

Key Points:

·       Planetary Accounting Network (PAN) worked with people, businesses, and governments to quantify what was needed at different scales to return to and remain within the Planetary Boundaries

·       Was a framework that translated global environmental challenges into actionable targets at any scale. Mission was to make Planetary Accounting easy to access, easy to use, and easy to understand

·       Advocated that BOPRC used Planetary Accounting to measure and report its progress against its strategy, community outcomes and goals in one central dashboard combining system-wide reporting and outcome focussed decision-making and measurements

·       Costs of services depended on the level of engagement required.

10221

Planetary Accounting Network

S18

Sam Jansen

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 1: Rates funding for public transport in urban areas across the Bay of Plenty comes 100% from targeted rates

·       New regional parks: supported Option 2: Yes - Council should investigate new opportunities for regional parks

·       Shared frustrations experienced with some bus routes: long waits

·       Proposed an increase in number of buses on some routes as buses were sometimes too full

·       Expressed appreciation for the new On-Demand Bus Services

·       Regional Parks: observed issues with dog waste in regional parks and suggested awareness/ management of this problem.

9412

Individual

S25

Hayden Smith

Key Points:

·       Project: Sea Cleaners Expansion of the Bay of Plenty Region

·       Was seeking funding to expand marine litter removal and environmental education operations to the Bay of Plenty Region of the next 3 years

·       Requested $50,000 (Year 1), $50,000 (Year 2), $50,000 (Year 3)

·       Highlighted long-term commitment to environmental conservation, particularly in cleaning up coastal areas and educating communities

·       Emphasised the importance of partnering with local funders/community groups to support their mission

·       Noted the prevalence of plastic debris along the coast and the need to change people’s habits to address this issue

·       Was working with recyclers to divert waste from landfills and repurpose it, striving to improve waste management practices

·       Interfaced with recreational fishing clubs to encourage responsible behaviour and reduce marine debris

·       Advocated for continued support to expand their environmental conservation efforts, highlighting the positive impact they have had on local communities and the environment

·       Would continue to inspire/change and foster a collective responsibility for ocean cleanliness.

10248

Sea Cleaners Trust

S26

Paula Gaelic, Hone Winder-Murray and Reon Tuanau

Provided PowerPoint presentation 6 and tabled documents 8 and 9.

Key Points:

·       Was a refurbishment project to create a dedicated Tangata Whenua/Taiao space in the Western Bay Museum

·       Requested financial support for kaupapa, including a special 6 month exhibition on local Environmental Heroes scheduled to open later this year, and assistance with the refurbishment of museum to create a dedicated space for tangata whenua

·       Emphasised the importance of reflecting the community’s history and aspirations

·       There was a need for better representation and visibility of Māori at the museum to reflect the community’s identity

·       Museum aimed to improve visitor experience, meet educational demands, and provide a sense of place and belonging

·       Requested $32,500 (Year 1), $40,000 (Year 2), $25,000 (Year 3).

10165

Western Bay of Plenty Heritage Trust (Western Bay Museum)

S27

Keni Piahana

Key Points:

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported in principle the sell down of shares to enable a diversified portfolio

·       Was important that this occurred with a commitment to intergenerational interests upper most in the decision making/needed to secure future generations, recognise contributions by Māori community

·       Investment to be supported in NZ based enterprises, assets or activities

·       Offshore investments to include accountability and assurance on clean production, circular economy, environmental protection and worker health, safety, wellbeing

·       The 'swap out portfolio’ to provide the same security of return and performance

·       To structure the 26% divestment to reflect subregional interests and recognition of costs to Tauranga Moana, given the generator of the value was based in Tauranga Moana

·       Referenced the customary fishery settlement as a model for economic redress, where Māori were able to build wealth through an economic arm

·       Goal should be to find a way to equitably allocate shares to the Māori community, acknowledging the costs and burdens they have borne.

10377

Individual

S28

Ash Morgan / Dave Allum

Provided PowerPoint presentation 7.

Key Points:

·       Project Cleanup - multi-phased environmental project focused on cleaning up marine debris and educating the community

·       To collect all waste material in and around the harbour/coastlines and waterway for Bay of Plenty

·       Collected data from stormwater outlets and helped support local councils to prevent ocean bound plastic

·       Requested $151,616.20 (Year 1), $151,616.20 (Year 2), $151,616.20 (Year 3)

·       Strong commitment to not only cleaning up but also preventing pollution through education and community involvement

·       Future Projects: Plans include diving surveys around islands and outcrops to monitor and respond to pollution, ensuring a quick environmental response

·       Lobbied for assistance to request for the waving of dumping fees charged by Tauranga City Council

·       Expressed interest to work alongside Sea Cleaners Trust.

10282

Outflow Trust

S29

Michele Elborn

Provided PowerPoint presentation 8.

Key Points:

·       Vision was to restore ecosystems and indigenous biodiversity in the Bay of Plenty

·       Seeking continued support from BOPRC as a well aligned partner, for Bay Conservation Alliance (BCA) to continue the delivery of core services in support of community-led conservation projects across the Bay of Plenty

·       As of June 2025, Jobs for Nature funding contract with Ministry for the Environment (MfE) for BCA Cadets - Tauira Mani would end. The value of this contract had not only supported the cadet program delivery but provided many co-benefits to BCA’s role in providing support to its member groups given the way the program was structured

·       Accordingly, from July 2025 BCA would need to replace a significant funding shortfall, in order to continue delivering support services through BCA staff. This was reflected in an increased request for funding for years 2 and 3 and additional funding increases would also be sought from other funders

·       Expressed appreciation for Council’s support and looked forward to continuing collaborative efforts to enhance biodiversity and community engagement in conservation.

9948

Bay Conservation Alliance

S32

Brett Elliot and Sarah Elliot

Provided PowerPoint presentation 9 and tabled document 10.

Key Points:

·       Recommended that BOPRC continued to fund the control of mangroves in the areas of Welcome Bay and Maungatapu

·       Requested that four points in the submission be adopted:

1.  Adopting mechanical methods for the sustainable management of mangroves in critical areas to restore access for recreational and cultural activities

2.  Engagement with local communities to identify priority areas for mangrove management, ensuring a balanced approach that considers ecological, recreational, and cultural values.

3.  Implementation of a long-term mangrove management strategy that included monitoring and maintenance to prevent unchecked growth, aligning with best practices and community expectations

4.  Planting seagrass to control erosion, support biodiversity, improve water quality, support sediment trapping and nutrient cycling (reducing silt accumulation), contributing to carbon sequestration, thus mitigating the effects of climate change

·       Committed to working with the BOPRC and relevant stakeholders to develop a sustainable approach to mangrove management in Welcome Bay and Maungatapu

·       Would enhance the estuarine environment for all users while protecting its ecological integrity for future generations.

9880

Maungatapu and Welcome Bay Mangrove Care Group

S31

Blair Skarrat

Key Points:

·       Submitted on the public transport system: Buses were often full, indicated a need for increased frequency or additional routes

·       Was concerned about the time it took for buses to complete routes/adhere to timetables

·       Suggested passenger train service

·       New Regional Parks: supported Option 2 (Preferred Option): Yes - Council should investigate new opportunities for regional parks; provided they were well-maintained, clean, and mowed

·       Raised concerns about current parks not being mowed, lacking rubbish bins, and sometimes not having ablution facilities, affecting usability.

9890

Individual

S33

Kathryn Picard/Cami Carty-Melis/Fern Goodin

Key Points:

·       Public Transport: supported Option 2 (Preferred Option): Rates funding for public transport in urban centres comes from 90% targeted and 10% general rates

·       Port of Tauranga Shares: supported Option 2 (Preferred Option): Enable a reduction (by Quayside) in Port of Tauranga Shares to a minimum of 28% (Preferred option)

·       New Regional Parks: supported Option 2 (Preferred Option): Yes - Council should investigate new opportunities for regional parks

·       Submitted that BOPRC allocate more funding/resources to schools to support environmental issues and impact on climate change (i.e. supporting initiatives like Enviro schools/waste minimisation/riparian planting/other sustainability projects)

·       Such investment would ultimately benefit BOPRC through fostering the creation of a generation of environmentally active citizens committed to looking after our community and region

·       Current School Sustainability and Resilience Fund was impactful but did not reach the majority of schools due to limited distribution

·       Environmental classes had positively influenced students and peers

·       Emphasised the importance of environmental education in shaping the attitudes and actions of young people towards sustainability and environmental stewardship

·       School had started a paper recycling program but faced challenges with local Council not supporting pickup services. Recommended allowing schools to access council recycling services

·       Highlighted the benefits of having a water bore at schools to reduce water costs and maintain green spaces.

Key Points - Members:

·       Undertook to engage with local District Council’s leadership to encourage consideration of supporting waste pickup services for the School.

9420

9418

Individual

S34

Kura Tukaokao (via Zoom) / Cheryl Hayes / Te Pio Kawe, on behalf of Keren Paekau

Provided PowerPoint presentation 10.

Key Points:

·       Ara Rau Tangata was a project providing a multitude of pathways to success for our people

·       Project aimed to establish operational function of Ara Rau Tangata - one stop shop for all whenua Māori needs (consenting, planning, rates)

·       Have largely functioned voluntarily, but have received immense support (through attendance at our various wananga over the years)

·       Originally set up as a joint agency group, aimed at gaining more efficiency for Māori land owners in aspects of development, although the shape of the group has changed, the need was still the same

·       Requested $150,000 (Year 1), $150,000 (Year 2), $150,000 (Year 3)

·       Supported Te Ara Poutama and its associated initiatives

·       Partnering with tangata whenua and community towards a prosperous and equitable regional future; reference toward ‘community’ should be changed to ‘communities’;

·       Commended BORPC on the use of Te Reo Māori as an official language and endorsed its further use in all council documentation

·       Supported the proposed rates and remissions policy for whenua Māori; however needed to consider the complex needs for whānau with whenua Māori

·       Proposed to enter into a partnership with BOPRC to support the needs of Whenua Māori owners in the Western Bay of Plenty.

10569

Ara Rau Tangata