Agenda of Komiti Māori - Tuesday, 27 August 2024

Komiti Māori

Membership

Chairperson
Notwithstanding that Komiti Māori has an appointed Chairperson, Māori Constituency Councillors may host-Chair committee meetings that are held in the rohe of their respective constituency	Cr Matemoana McDonald
Deputy Chairperson	Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti
Members	All Councillors
Quorum	Seven members, consisting of half the number of members
Meeting frequency	Two monthly

Purpose

To provide direction and guidance on Council’s obligations to Māori in relation to: growth of authentic partnerships with Tangata Whenua, strategic direction, emerging issues, legal requirements, effective engagement, awareness and understanding.

Role

· First and foremost to provide leadership to Council on enhancing the kaupapa of shared decision-making with Māori across all aspects of Council’s work.

· Drive enhancements to Council’s responsiveness to Māori (including monitoring and reporting) and to ensure compliance with its obligations to Maori under legislation.

· Facilitate tangata whenua input into community outcomes, Council policy development and implementation work;

· Formally receive iwi/hapū management plans on behalf of Council;

· Identify and provide direction on any relevant emerging issues for the region relating to the principles of the Te Tiriti o Waitangi, legislative obligations to Māori under different statutes and programmes to build the capability of Māori;

· Provide direction on effective Māori engagement and on actions to enhance Māori capacity to contribute to Council’s decision-making, including recommendations for Long Term Plan funding to achieve this;

· Make submissions on Māori related matters, in conjunction with other relevant Council committees where appropriate;

· Support and promote co-governance entities;

· Recommend to Council the establishment of advisory groups or other governance mechanisms, to represent sub-region or constituency areas and/or to consider specific issues;

· Recommend to Council, and/or appropriate committees, actions to achieve the committee’s purpose and roles.

Power to Act

To make all decisions necessary to achieve the purpose and roles of Komiti Māori.

Power to Recommend

To Council and/or any standing committee as it deems appropriate.

Komiti Māori reports directly to the Regional Council.

Recording of Meetings

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

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

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

Komiti Māori Minutes

30 April 2024

Komiti Māori

Ngā Meneti

Open Minutes

Commencing: Tuesday 30 April 2024, 9:30 AM commencing with a pōwhiri before the start of the meeting

Venue: Ngā Pūmanawa e Waru o Te Arawa Marae, 1128 State Highway 30, Lake Ōkataina

Heamana

Chairperson: Cr Te Taru White (Host-Chair)

Ngā Kopounga

Members: Cr Matemoana McDonald (Komiti Māori Chair)

Cr Malcolm Campbell

Cr Stuart Crosby

Chairman Doug Leeder

Cr Kat Macmillan

Cr Jane Nees

Cr Ron Scott

Cr Ken Shirley

Cr Lyall Thurston

Cr Kevin Winters

In Attendance: Bay of Plenty Regional Council Toi Moana (BOPRC):

Kataraina O’Brien – General Manager Strategic Engagement, Herewini Simpson – Kaihautu (Te Amorangi Lead), Rawiri Bhana – Senior Advisor, Margaret Courtney – Senior Advisor, Lisa Tauroa – Kaituitui (Strategic Engagement Coordinator), Shari Kameta – Committee Advisor

Guest/Staff Presenters: as listed in the minutes

Tangata Whenua/Members of the Public: Nicki Douglas – Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Raina Meha – Ngāti Tamateatutahi/Ngāti Kawiti, Aleisha Mitchell – Ngāti Whakaue, Ngawhakawairangi Hohepa – Ngāti Rongomai/Ngāti Pikiao/Ngāti Mākino

Ngā Hōnea

Apologies: Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti

Cr Paula Thompson

Cr Andrew von Dadelszen

Tangata whenua/Members of the public: Maru Tapsell and Buddy Mikaere

A pōwhiri took place at 9:30 am before the meeting was declared open by Host-Chair Cr
Te Taru White at 10:32 am.

1. Opening Prayer
Karakia Whakatuwhera

A karakia was provided by Tiipene Marr.

2. Host-Chair’s Opening Statement
Whakamihia ko te Māngai ā-Rohe te Heamana

Host-Chair Cr White provided a mihi to acknowledge the hau kainga for their invitation to host the meeting at their marae and to welcome everyone to the meeting. He provided background on the establishment of BOPRC’s Māori constituency wards, the composition of Komiti Māori and that the meeting would be conducted using Council’s standing orders.

3. Apologies
Ngā Hōnea

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Accepts the apologies from Cr Toi Kai Rākau Iti, Cr Paula Thompson, Cr Andrew von Dadelszen, Buddy Mikaere and Maru Tapsell tendered at the meeting.

Nees/Campbell

CARRIED

4. Items not on the Agenda
Ngā Take Tōmuri

The Chair advised that Nicki Douglas wished to speak in the Open Forum on behalf of Ngāti Rangiwewehi regarding the initiation of a Mana Whakahono a Rohe.

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

None declared.

6. Minutes
Ngā Meneti

Minutes to be Confirmed
Kia Whakaūngia Ngā Meneti

6.1

Komiti Māori Minutes - 27 February 2024

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Confirms the Komiti Māori Minutes - 27 February 2024 as a true and correct record.

Macmillan/Crosby

CARRIED

7. Presentations
Whakaaturanga

7.1

Te Rohe o Te Rape-Puatatau-a-Rākeiao - Ngāti Rongomai Environmental Management Plan

Presentation - Ngāti Rongomai Iwi Trust - Iwi Environmental Management Plan: Objective ID A4653444

Tabled Document 1 - Ngāti Rongomai Iwi Environmental Management Plan: Objective ID A4670459 (Public Excluded)

Presented by: Dr Frances Teinakore-Curtis and Wairangi Whata

Key Points:

· Thanked BOPRC for its financial support in developing Ngāti Rongomai’s Iwi Environmental Management Plan (IEMP)

· An important component of the IEMP’s development was the participation of whānau to ensure their aspirations and concerns were included

· Key elements of the IEMP were comprised of:

o Ngāti Rongomai whakapapa/genealogy/history which was of significant importance and woven into their connection with the taiao/environment

o Areas of interest, i.e. lakes, waterways, noting there were overlapping interests with Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Taraawhai and Ngāti Mākino

o Processes and goals to protect areas of interest, including whānau participation and adequate resourcing/support to help measure and monitor activity

o A cultural values/statements framework that encompassed solutions, recommendations and expectations for mana whakahaere/autonomy, kaitiakitanga/stewardship and manaakitanga/collaboration

o Key issues of importance and an environmental policy framework for interaction with externals, i.e. councils and developers

· Five copies of the finalised IEMP were provided for lodgement with BOPRC for internal staff use (refer Tabled Document 1)

· Iwi/hapū requested that the document not be outward-facing or published on BOPRC’s website to avoid the content from being misused by externals without first engaging with them.

In Response to Questions:

· Regarding overlapping areas of interests, Ngāti Rongomai worked collectively with Ngāti Pikiao and the other iwi/hapū to maximise on resourcing efficiencies, and referred to the proposal of establishing a collective environmental hub that would be presented next on the agenda

· Iwi/hapū were exploring overseas models used for pest control

· Despite the challenges of continual environmental and legislative changes, the iwi/hapū were committed to developing and growing local skill base and rangatahi and progressing programmes to enable the taiao and their people to thrive.

Key Points - Members:

· Thanked Ngāti Rongomai for the lodgement of their IEMP

· Acknowledged the Iwi goal for mana whakahaere agreements that were driven by the iwi, which differed to mana whakahono a rohe (derived from legislation)

· Acknowledged the challenge for Council regarding the number/extent of iwi/hapū within the region to engage with, however noted the necessity to advocate, acknowledge and hear the kōrero of iwi/hapū

· Would be interested to understand the future impact that the IEMP would have for the Iwi/Hapū

· Supported local solutions and empowering communities of interest.

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Formally receives the lodgement of the finalised Te Rohe o Te Rape-Puatatau-a-Rākeiao - Ngāti Rongomai Environmental Management Plan (refer Tabled Document 1);

2 Confirms that the public be excluded from the circulation of Tabled Document 1, on the grounds set out in the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 under Section 48(1)(a)(i) Section 7 (2)(ba), as withholding the information is necessary to protect tikanga Māori/waahi tapu.

White/Scott

CARRIED

7.2

Te Kotahi a Pikiao - Te Tari Taiao o Te Tokotoru o Manawatokotoko / Ngāti Pikiao Iwi Collective Enviro Hub

Presentation - Intro slide and BOPRC LTP Submission from Te Tokotoru a Manawakotokoto Collective Iwi - April 2024: Objective ID A4657021

Presented by: Arapeta Tahana

Key Points:

· Presented Te Kotahi a Pikiao’s Long Term Plan (LTP) submission that sought funding/support to establish a formalised environmental office ‘Te Tari Taiao o Te Tokotoru a Manawakotokoto’ (tari taiao) to actively monitor and care for the taiao/environment and people

· The name of the tari taiao originated from the tupuna of Ngāti Pikiao, Ngāti Rongomai and Ngāti Mākino

· The paramount purpose of Te Kotahi a Pikiao was maintaining their connection their lands and waters, thereby sustaining their wellbeing

· Outlined the Iwi’s shared land interests and contributions, underpinning values and the purpose, objectives and concept of the proposal

· Summarised why Council should support the proposal, noting alignment with BOPRC’s strategic priorities and values

· The Iwi now had the right leadership and capability in place, along with an innate relationship/connection and knowledge of the taiao, to support the proposal.

· Without Council funding, the Iwi would progress its mahi in its current state of voluntary and limited resource/capability.

Key Points - Members:

· Endorsed the mahi being undertaken by and for iwi/hapū

· Noted that Council’s hearing of LTP submissions were yet to take place and that there would be no predetermination until Council made its decision on all submissions.

7.3

Tarawera Awa Aspirations Document

Presentation - Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group Aspirations Document: Objective ID A4657047

Presented by: Leith Comer, Dr Frances Teinakore-Curtis, Keri Topperwien and Tiipene Marr

Key Points:

· Provided background on the historical context and formation of the Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group and its purpose to restore the mauri of the Tarawera Awa

· Outlined the aspirations informed by the Strategy Group’s Iwi partners to communicate to stakeholders and inform the development of a strategy document

· A significant amount of work was still to be done, including communication and collaboration with stakeholders and the involvement of the Strategy Group’s partner councils to support wastewater schemes

· Further work and investigation was needed to determine if the aspirations to ‘rechannel/connect’ and ‘restore’ were possible

· Clarified that the aspiration was not to return the Rangitāiki Plains to pre-drainage times, but to restore Te Awa o Te Atua to its original state.

Key Points - Members:

· Acknowledged the aspirations to restore the mauri of the Tarawera Awa noting the inter-generational journey that may be needed to achieve it

· The aspirations to reconnect and restore Te Awa o Te Atua were admirable but would need to be driven by science/engineering, time and effort

· Acknowledged the need for wastewater management to be addressed and supported by Crown remediation and community ownership

· Considered achieving the aspirations were possible

· Noted the environmental improvements undertaken by the Kawerau mill sites and acknowledged the Strategy Group for how they had conducted themselves in their engagement with key stakeholders/community

· Noted that the pipeline for the Lake Tarawera reticulation scheme was in progress and suggested that the Strategy Group make a submission to Rotorua Lakes Council’s Long Term Plan (due to close on 6 May 2024) to support the scheme.

Order of Business

The Chair accommodated a change to the order to receive an item in the Open Forum, before consideration of Agenda item 7.4 (refer Open Forum item 9.1).

7.4

Long Term Plan 2024 – Friend of the Submitter Initiative

Presentation - Te Mahere Tūroa Draft Long Term Plan 2024-2034: Objective ID A4655846

Presented by: Merehine Waiari – Senior Advisor (Te Amorangi) and Huiarau Stewart (Contractor)

Key Points:

· Overall feedback received on the Long Term Plan (LTP) engagement approach with tangata whenua had been positive with an increase in submissions from tangata whenua

· The key critique received from tangata whenua entities was that the submission period had been too short to enable sufficient time for them to seek input from their iwi/hapū/land trust representatives

· Huiarau Stuart provided independent support to submitters and summarised her insights of the service:

o Good uptake and representation had been received from both tangata whenua and the general community

o Support included providing clarity on the submission process, scope and content, interpreting submitter’s thoughts and assisting them to prepare written submissions

o Considered the service was a great initiative and commended Council on their leadership in providing the service

o Recommended that Council continue to provide the service in the future

· Noted the LTP Hearing dates/venues that had been extended to all submitters, with the first day to be held at Huria Marae on 10 May 2024.

Key Points - Members:

· Thanked Huiarau for her expertise and providing the friend of the submitter service

· Very pleased that the engagement approach had been well received and achieved greater engagement and participation from tangata whenua and the community

· Maintaining the connections and relationships would be important.

8. Reports
Ngā Pūrongo

8.1

Tiamana o Komiti Māori Ripoata

The report was taken as read.

Key Points - Members:

· Noted a correction on page 19 of the agenda regarding the year that the
Te Whānau ā Apanui Deed of Settlement was initialled was 26 September 2023 (not 2024)

· Acknowledged councillors for attending the meeting with Te Whānau ā Apanui on 18-19 April 2024.

Resolved

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Tiamana o Komiti Māori Ripoata.

Winters/Leeder

CARRIED

9. Open Forum

9.1

Raina Meha – Tapuaeharuru Marae

Key Points:

· In response to the earlier question raised during the meeting regarding the impact of iwi/hapū management plans (HMP), Tapuaeharuru Marae HMP was launched in 2015 and had been the catalyst for a number of cultural impact assessments for the hapū and land trusts

· Raised an issue that parts of Tapuaeharuru’s HMP had been plagiarised in another HMP without acknowledgment or permission from the hapū

· As a result of this issue, Council staff were requested to:

o Remove Taupaeharuru Marae’s HMP from Council’s website

o Include within their processes, advice for iwi/hapū representatives regarding copyright and etiquette when referencing information from external sources.

9.2

Nicki Douglas - Notice of Initiation of a Mana Whakahono a Rohe

Tabled Document 2 - Written Statement of Ngāti Rangiwewehi Notice of Initiation of a Mana Whakahono a Rohe: Objective ID A4658848

Key Points:

· Provided notice of Te Maru o Ngāti Rangiwewehi’s initiation of a mana whakahono a rohe with BOPRC, noting that the matter had been provided within a submission to BOPRC’s Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP)

· Gave a written statement (refer Tabled Document 2) that provided background on the earlier undertaking to initiate an agreement, which had lapsed

· Ngāti Rangiwewehi wished to restate and reaffirm mana motuhake (authority) within their rohe and re-engage with BOPRC to progress with a participation agreement.

Key Points - Members:

· Thanked Nicki for the preliminary notice and statements provided

· Acknowledged Ngāti Rangiwewehi’s position regarding their rights and connection with their ancestral waters

· Noted that Council would wait for the hearing of LTP submissions before making any decisions.

10. Closing Prayer
Karakia Kati

A karakia was provided by Tiipene Marr.

12:59 pm – the meeting closed.

Confirmed

Cr Matemoana McDonald

Chairperson, Komiti Māori



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Komiti Māori
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	27 August 2024
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Merehine Waiari, Senior Advisor and Reuben Gardiner, Senior Advisor
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Kataraina O'Brien, General Manager, Strategic Engagement
Kaupapa: Purpose:	Long Term Plan 2024-2034 Update

Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Long Term Plan 2024-2034 Post Adoption Update: Te Ara Poutama

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

At its meeting on 26 June 2024, Regional Council adopted the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan (LTP) that sets the budget and initiatives that will be delivered over the next 10 years. The LTP involved a comprehensive engagement process with tangata whenua that included the first LTP hearing held on a Marae. Council received a number of oral and written submissions from Māori that informed key decisions relating to the new community outcome Te Ara Poutama.

Komiti Māori is a formal committee of Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council. Its purpose is to provide direction and guidance on Council’s obligations to Māori, including the growth of authentic partnerships with tangata whenua, facilitating tangata whenua input into Council policy development and implementation and enhancing Māori capacity to participate in Council decision-making.

Komiti Māori has oversight of Te Ara Poutama and its associated goals.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Long Term Plan 2024-2034 Post Adoption Update: Te Ara Poutama.

1. Kupu Whakataki
Introduction

Preparation for the Long Term Plan involved comprehensive engagement with tangata whenua to facilitate feedback on matters of interest affecting them through the submissions process. Council received 391 submissions on its Consultation Document and Supporting Information, an increase of 22% over the 2021 Long Term Plan and represents the highest number of submissions to a Long Term Plan Council have received to date. Approximately 79 of the submissions were from Māori (either individuals or representing an organisation).

Council received positive feedback from tangata whenua concerning the engagement approach which included online workshops, use of the Friend of the Submitter service to support submissions and the opportunity to present at a Marae hearing. There was overwhelming support expressed for Te Ara Poutama and other initiatives of direct interest to tangata whenua. Building relationships and working in partnership with Council to achieve desired outcomes for our environment continues to remain a priority.

At its deliberations meeting in May 2024, Council approved the following recommendations to support the work to embed Te Ara Poutama:

· The establishment of a Māori Initiatives Fund (MIF) with funding of $200,000 per annum for the first three years of the LTP;

· The development of a MIF policy in Year 1 of the LTP, to be reviewed in Year 3 of the LTP;

· The establishment of a Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund (RCSF) with funding of $200,000 per annum for the first three years of the LTP

· The development of a RCSF policy in Year 1 of the LTP, to be reviewed in Year 3 of the LTP;

· An increase in funding to support the development of Iwi and Hapu Management Plans from $70,000 to $140,000 per annum;

· The development of a Treaty of Waitangi/Te Tiriti Policy; and

· The development of a Social Procurement Policy.

Staff have developed a draft work plan for Komiti Māori along with indicative timeframes for progressing the LTP resolutions under Te Ara Poutama.

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

The Te Ara Poutama, Pursuit of Excellence is a new outcome in the strategic framework for the LTP 2024-2034. Te Ara Poutama goals are:

· Goal 15: Supporting enhanced Māori participation in operational activities, and progressing new opportunities where they arise within existing operations;

· Goal 16: Supporting Māori capacity and capability building to empower proactive relationships;

· Goal 17: Ensuring an equitable approach to the four wellbeing’s and deliver of community outcomes;

· Goal 18: Partner with Māori to enhance delivery and share decision-making;

Please refer to Attachment 1 - LTP Strategic Direction 2024-2034 for the community outcomes and associated goals.

;

2. Long Term Plan 2024-2034

The Long Term Plan 2024 – 2034 sets the budget and details the work that will be delivered for the next 10 years. The development of the Long Term Plan included comprehensive community engagement, with significant interest and input from ratepayers across the region.

Vision: Bay of Plenty Thriving Together – mō te Taiao, mō ngā tāngata

Mission: To create and enhance a resilient, healthy and sustainable Bay of Plenty Region.

Overall, there are five community outcomes and 18 goals (refer Attachment 1).

2.1 Te Ara Poutama

Te Ara Poutama can be translated to the pursuit of excellence and has its origins in Te Ao Māori and references the pathway ascended by Tāne to retrieve the baskets of knowledge. From a contemporary perspective, Te Ara Poutama serves to inspire a commitment to innovate, excellence and community improvement. A full list of the LTP Community Outcome goals is attached in the appendix.

Te Ara Poutama is focused on partnering with tangata whenua and community towards a prosperous and equitable future.

· Goal 15: Supporting enhanced Māori participation in operational activities, and progressing new opportunities where they arise within existing operations;

· Goal 16: Supporting Māori capacity and capability building to empower proactive relationships;

· Goal 17: Ensuring an equitable approach to the four wellbeing’s and delivery of community outcomes;

· Goal 18: Partner with Māori to enhance delivery and share decision-making.

2.2 Implementation of Te Ara Poutama

A service plan is being developed to progress key Council Horizon priorities over the next three years, including decisions for Te Ara Poutama and Te Pae Tawhiti (Māori Capacity and Capability). A dedicated strategy and implementation plan is planned in Year 1 of the LTP and will guide the corresponding programme of work that will contribute to the Te Ara Poutama strategy and its goals. The list below is an indicative timeline for progressing key LTP decisions under Te Ara Poutama:

Key priorities

Indicative Time Frame

Year 1

1 July 2024 to

30 June 2025

· Māori Initiatives Fund (He Ara Taituarā): develop and implement policy.

· Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund (Aronga Ngātahi): develop and implement policy.

· Te Ara Poutama Strategy and Implementation Plan: develop plan/framework.

· Iwi Hapū Management Plan Funding: align internal process to accommodate the increase in funding including actively promoting new plans, revising existing plans and enabling support for implementation.

· Treaty of Waitangi Policy: workshop with elected members

Year 2

1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026

· Treaty of Waitangi Policy: develop and implement policy

· Social Procurement Policy: commence development

Year 3

1 July 2026 to 30 June 2027

· Review Māori Initiatives Fund (He Ara Taituara)

· Review Regional Co-Governance Fund (Aronga Ngātahi)

· Endorse Social Procurement Policy

· Report on Te Ara Poutama

3. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

3.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

The current economic climate and fiscal limitations of Council requires prioritisation of our work and Council will not be able to fund all requests for financial support. Mitigating and managing expectations will need to be carefully managed. Staff will continue to seek ways to support iwi and hapū using existing resources and access to technical experts. There are no other significant risks identified in this report.

3.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

3.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

The priority areas relating to Māori outcomes, particularly the goals set out under Te Ara Poutama, set a timeframe for delivering key initiatives relating to ongoing support and building partnership arrangements with Māori. Central to ongoing support is the preparation and implementation of new funding schemes to further support Māori capacity and capability.

The enhanced council wide service plan digital platform will also enable how best to deploy staff resources and progress on delivery of the key priorities identified in this report. The effect of a lined-up strategy aimed at building Māori capacity and capability through a Council wide approach has the potential to efficiently synchronise efforts when allocating Council resources.

3.4 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

Staff engaged directly with tangata whenua during the LTP consultation process. The recommendations in this report identify Councils response to the engagement that was undertaken.

3.5 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

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

4. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

Staff will begin working on key priorities identified in the Komiti Māori Work Plan 2024. Reporting back to the Komiti will be based on the timeframes presented and/or where the Komiti may decide to amend or update those timeframes.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - LTP Strategic Directions 2024-2034 ⇩



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Komiti Māori
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	27 August 2024
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Merehine Waiari, Senior Advisor and Herewini Simpson, Kaihautu (Te Amorangi Lead)
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Kataraina O'Brien, General Manager, Strategic Engagement
Kaupapa: Purpose:	Approval of the draft Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund Policy (Aronga Ngātahi)

2024-2034 Long Term Plan Implementation: Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund Policy (Aronga Ngātahi)

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

At its Long Term Plan (LTP) deliberation meeting held on 28 May 2024, Council resolved to:

· Establish a Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund with funding of $200,000 per annum for the first three years of the LTP; and

· Develop a policy in Year 1 of the LTP, to be reviewed in Year 3 of the LTP.

Staff have developed a draft Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund Policy (Aronga Ngātahi) and are seeking its approval from Komiti Māori.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, 2024-2034 Long Term Plan Implementation: Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund Policy (Aronga Ngātahi);

2 Approves the draft Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund Policy (Aronga Ngātahi).

1. Kupu Whakataki
Introduction

Council received 79 submissions from Māori during the LTP consultation and strong support was expressed for Te Ara Poutama and its goals. This includes submissions from the leaders of three Treaty Co-Governance Forums seeking funding to continue the secretariat services that Council funded through its previous LTP. In response, Council agreed to:

· The establishment of a Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund (RCSF) with funding of $200,000 per annum for the first three years of the LTP; and

· The development of a Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund policy in Year 1 of the LTP, to be reviewed in Year 3 of the LTP.

Staff have developed a draft RSCF Policy (Aronga Ngātahi) that sets out the criteria and assessment process for Year 1 – 3 of the LTP. The development of the Policy is informed by:

· LTP Co-Governance consultation and submissions.

· LTP Workshops.

· LTP Hearings.

· LTP meetings including the May deliberation hui.

· Outcomes achieved under the previous LTP Co-Governance secretariat fund.

· Advice from Toi Moana Māori Councillors.

· Consultation with relevant staff and subject matter experts.

1.1 Pou Tarāwaho ā-Ture
Legislative Framework

The Local Government Act 2002 requires Council to:

· Establish and maintain processes to provide opportunities for Māori to contribute to decision-making processes (section 81(1)(a));

· Consider ways in which it may foster the development of Māori capacity to contribute to the decision-making processes (section 81(1)(b));

· Provide relevant information to Māori (section 81(1)(c)); and

· Take into account the relationship of Māori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral land, water, sites, wāhi tapu, valued flora and fauna and other taonga (section 77(1)(c)).

Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council (Toi Moana) has specific legislative responsibilities under relevant Bay of Plenty Treaty settlement legislation.

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

The Te Ara Poutama, Pursuit of Excellence is a new outcome in the strategic framework for the LTP 2024-2034. Te Ara Poutama goals are:

· Goal 15: Supporting enhanced Māori participation in operational activities, and progressing new opportunities where they arise within existing operations;

· Goal 16: Supporting Māori capacity and capability building to empower proactive relationships;

· Goal 17: Ensuring an equitable approach to the four wellbeing’s and deliver of community outcomes;

· Goal 18: Partner with Māori to enhance delivery and share decision-making;

Please refer to Attachment 1 - LTP Strategic Directions 2024-2034 under Agenda Item 9.1 (pages 21-22 of the agenda).

2. Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Co-Governance Forums

Through Treaty settlement legislation, Toi Moana has responsibility for administering Treaty Co-Governance Forums in the Bay of Plenty including the Rangitāiki River Forum, the Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Group, the Rotorua Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group and Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority. The Whakatōhea Kaitiaki Forum will be established in the near future following the recent enactment of the Whakatōhea Claims Settlement Act 2024.

Toi Moana also supports the Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Forum (non-statutory) and the Tauranga Moana Advisory Group, a pre-settlement advisory group (refer below).

Co-governance arrangements

Treaty Based (established)

Treaty Based

(to be established)

Non-Statutory (established)

Pre-Settlement

(established)

1. Te Arawa Lakes Strategy Group

2. Rangitāiki River Forum

3. Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority

4. Tarawera Awa Strategy Group

5. Whakatōhea Kaitiaki Forum

6. Ōhiwa Harbour Implementation Group

7. Tauranga Moana Advisory Group

The forums provide for shared decision-making between tangata whenua and local authorities and are an effective partnership tool to achieving environmental outcomes for significant water ways and natural features in the Bay of Plenty.

Each Co-Governance Forum supported by Toi Moana are unique and are at varying levels of maturity. Some have received Crown funding, some have not. Some have a specific statutory purpose such as developing a strategy, with timeframes to review and update while others are managed via annual work programmes or implementation plans.

Given this dynamic, the scope of the fund should focus on supporting initiatives that empower the forums to achieve their objectives such as:

a. The development of a plan, project or strategy that is not funded via a Crown contribution

b. Secretariat and strategic advice

c. Technical support

d. Training and development of Iwi members

e. Development of projects and action plan implementation

3. Draft RCSF Policy (Aronga Ngātahi) Policy

The recommended policy approach staff propose is designed to be flexible to accommodate a range of initiatives that support the Co-Governance Forums to achieve their purpose. Staff have developed a draft policy that sets out the criteria and funding distribution in Year 1 – 3 of the LTP. Refer to appendix for draft Policy.

3.1 Purpose

The purpose of the RCSF (Aronga Ngātahi) is to provide a level of support for iwi members with a focus on contributing to the purpose of the forums and their respective goals and outcomes.

3.2 Eligibility Criteria

Requests for funding through the RCSF (Aronga Ngātahi) will only be considered if the applicant meets the following criteria:

· Treaty Co-Governance Forums: The forum must be established via Treaty of Waitangi Settlement legislation where Toi Moana has delegated administration responsibilities.

· Non-Statutory Forums: The forum must be recognized as a non-statutory body established by and operating in partnership with Toi Moana.

· Pre-Settlement Forums: The forum is a pre-settlement arrangement that was established by and operates in partnership with Toi Moana.

3.3 Assessment and decision-making

The Assessment undertaken will consider the information provided in the application form with a focus on:

1. Alignment to the purpose of the Fund, Council community outcomes and goals. The initiative for which funding is sought must be clearly linked to the co-governance forum’s purpose and/or in fulfilment of a statutory requirement (for example the review of a River Document).

2. Feasibility of application (including quality of project plan and budget, applicant’s capacity and capability to deliver).

3. Supporting information. Applications will need to demonstrate how the proposed initiative will deliver the outcomes stated and contribute to supporting iwi members and the purpose of the forum.

4. Other relevant considerations to the funding request. This may include whether the applicant is receiving a Crown Funding Contribution and/or balance of any remaining Crown Funding Contribution for the same initiative/work or is in receipt of any third party funding for the same initiative/work.

Staff assessors will liaise with respective Committee Champions, with recommendations made to the General Manager Strategic Engagement for approval.

3.4 Funding Distribution

Staff propose that the funding is distributed and assessed based on the following:

· Year 1 of the LTP: Priority will be given to applicants who meet the criteria and have submitted to the 2024-2034 LTP.

· Years 2 and 3 of the LTP: The fund will be year open year round to eligible applicants, with assessments based on the merit of the proposal.

· Successful proposals will be approved based on their merit, alignment with co-governance principles, and the availability of funds.

· Eligible applicants must submit a request/proposal outlining the project, its objectives, and how it aligns with the principles of co-governance.

· Funds will be disbursed in stages based on the achievement of project milestones as outlined in the approved proposal.

3.5 Review and Amendments

This Policy will be reviewed in Year 3 of the LTP to ensure it remains relevant and effective.

4. Alignment with Community Funding Review

At its meeting on 28 May 2024, Councillors directed staff to bring reviews of the Community Initiatives Fund, Volunteer Initiatives Fund, Environmental Enhancement Fund and the Māori Initiatives Fund, to inform integration across the funding schemes. The review is currently scheduled to go to the Strategy and Policy Committee in Q2 2024/2025 (October-December) and will identify future possible integration options. Although the RCSF (Aronga Ngātahi) is not part of the Community Funding review, staff have ensured that it aligns with existing Council funding schemes.

The RCSF Policy (Aronga Ngātahi) will be reviewed in the first quarter of Year 3 of the 2024-2034 LTP and the outcome of the review reported to Komiti Māori.

5. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

5.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

The current economic climate and fiscal limitations of Council requires prioritisation of our work. Through the LTP process, it was clear that the secretariat funding requested from Treaty Co-Governance Forums exceeds what Council can support and that a robust policy would be required to make decisions on funding.

Staff have taken into consideration the secretariat needs of the Treaty Co-Governance Forums, the Non-Statutory Forum and the Pre-Settlement Forum (the Co-Governance Forums), including Crown and central government funding they have received, the current work programme for each entity and potential impacts of ongoing National reform. This is reflected in the assessment process in the draft policy.

Mitigating and managing expectations will need to be carefully as managed. Staff will continue to seek ways to support the Co-Governance Forums using existing resources and access to technical experts.

5.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

5.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Council has specific legislative responsibilities under Treaty settlement legislation and the LGA 2002 to provide administrative support to the Treaty Co-Governance Forums in the region. Council also has specific responsibilities under section 81 of the Local Government Act 2002 to support the development of Māori capacity and capability to contribute to Council decision making processes. This is reflected in Te Ara Poutama to support Council meeting this obligation.

The priority areas relating to Māori outcomes and the goals set out under Te Ara Poutama, set a timeframe for delivering key initiatives and building partnership arrangements with Māori. Central to this work is the preparation and implementation of the RCSF (Aronga Ngātahi) Policy to provide secretariat support to the Co-Governance Forums over the next three years. Through the LTP submissions and presentations, the Treaty Co-Governance Forums that have received secretariat funding expressed their appreciation for the support from Council but noted that ongoing support was required.

As work in this area is progressed, it is anticipated that other opportunities will be identified to support an integrated Council approach to funding and resource requests from tangata whenua, including Co-Governance Forums. This may include shared contribution from existing operational budgets, co-funding the development or implementation of projects alongside central government agencies/other stakeholders or co-funding projects from existing Council funding mechanisms where they deliver on other community outcomes.

5.4 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

Staff engaged directly with Toi Moana Bay of Plenty Regional Council Co-Governance Forums during the LTP consultation process.

5.5 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

There are no material unbudgeted financial implications and this fits within the allocated budget approved through the 2024-2034 LTP.

6. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

Should Komiti Māori approve this Policy, staff will socialise the RCSF Policy (Aronga Ngātahi) with the Co-Governance Forums and begin implementation.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Draft Regional Co-Governance Secretariat Fund Policy (Aronga Ngatahi) ⇩



Pūrongo Ki: Report To:	Komiti Māori
Rā Hui: Meeting Date:	27 August 2024
Kaituhi Pūrongo: Report Writer:	Merehine Waiari, Senior Advisor and Anaru Vercoe, Pou Whainga - Principal Advisor
Kaiwhakamana Pūrongo: Report Authoriser:	Kataraina O'Brien, General Manager, Strategic Engagement
Kaupapa: Purpose:	Approval of the draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā)

2024-2034 Long Term Plan Implementation: Approval of the draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā)

Whakarāpopototanga
Executive Summary

At its Long Term Plan (LTP) deliberation meeting held on 28 May 2024, Council resolved to:

· Establish a Māori Initiatives Fund in year one of the LTP with funding of $200,000 per annum;

· Develop a policy in Year 1 of the LTP, to be reviewed in Year 3 of the LTP

Staff have developed a draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā) and are seeking its approval from Komiti Māori.

He Ara Taituara translates to mean ‘a pathway of support’.

Ngā tūtohutanga
Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, 2024-2034 Long Term Plan Implementation: Approval of the draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā);

2 Approves the draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā).

1. Kupu Whakataki
Introduction

Council received 79 submissions from Māori during the LTP consultation and strong support was expressed for Te Ara Poutama and its goals. A consistent theme across written submissions and presentations was the need to support Māori capacity and capability to participate in Council decision-making and operations. In response, Council agreed to:

· The establishment of a Māori Initiatives Fund (MIF) with funding of $200,000 per annum for the first three years of the 2024-2034 LTP; and

· The development of a Māori Initiatives Fund policy in Year 1 of the LTP, to be reviewed in Year 3 of the LTP.

Staff have developed a draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā) that sets out the criteria and assessment process for Year 1 – 3 of the LTP. The development of the Policy is informed by:

· LTP Māori engagement hui.

· LTP Māori submissions.

· LTP Workshops.

· LTP Hearings.

· LTP meetings including the May deliberation hui.

· Advice from Toi Moana Māori Councillors.

· Consultation with relevant staff and subject matter experts.

· Community Funding review currently being undertaken, ensuring alignment with existing Council funding schemes.

1.1 Pou Tarāwaho ā-Ture
Legislative Framework

Council’s Strategic Framework incorporates a Māori outcome that is underpinned by specific statutory obligations to Māori.

The Local Government Act 2002 requires Council to:

· Establish and maintain processes to provide opportunities for Māori to contribute to decision-making processes (section 81(1)(a));

· Consider ways in which it may foster the development of Māori capacity to contribute to the decision-making processes (section 81(1)(b));

· Provide relevant information to Māori (section 81(1)(c)); and

· Take into account the relationship of Māori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral land, water, sites, wāhi tapu, valued flora and fauna and other taonga (section 77(1)(c)).

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

The Te Ara Poutama, Pursuit of Excellence is a new outcome in the strategic framework for the Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP). Te Ara Poutama goals are:

· Goal 15: Supporting enhanced Māori participation in operational activities, and progressing new opportunities where they arise within existing operations;

· Goal 16: Supporting Māori capacity and capability building to empower proactive relationships;

· Goal 17: Ensuring an equitable approach to the four wellbeing’s and deliver of community outcomes;

· Goal 18: Partner with Māori to enhance delivery and share decision-making.

Please refer to Attachment 1 - LTP Strategic Directions 2024-2034 under Agenda Item 9.1 (pages 21-22 of the agenda).

2. Background

Te Ara Poutama is focused on partnering with tangata whenua and the community towards a prosperous and equitable future. It builds on the important mahi Council achieved in the Partnerships with Māori Action Plan 2021-2031 and the way we work with Māori. A key focus area continues to be strengthening Māori capacity to participate in Council activities and associated decision-making activities.

Council received several submissions from tangata whenua on the LTP requesting support to enhance and sustainably grow capacity and improve technical capability in order to effectively participate in Council processes. Approximately $400,000 of funding was also sought through submissions to support a broad range of initiatives to build or enhance Māori capacity and capability. This includes access to experts and Council resources, secondments to Council and to iwi, the establishment of taiao or resource management hubs, shared services and financial support to sustain the capacity of iwi to lead projects.

The number of requests for support Council received through the LTP reflects the capability and capacity issues tangata whenua are experiencing in the region. This has been exacerbated by ongoing national reform and legislative changes. Building capacity and capability sustainably is crucial for tangata whenua to continue participating in Council activities over the long term.

In response, Council approved the establishment of a Māori Initiatives Fund of $200,000 per annum in the first three years of the LTP to support the spectrum of capability and capacity initiatives Council received from tangata whenua.

2.1 Alignment with Funding Review

Staff have been cognisant of the Community Funding review throughout the development of the Policy ensuring there is alignment with existing Council funding schemes. Staff have also consulted with other teams across Council on the draft policy, with the Corporate Performance team providing ongoing advice and support. To ensure that the Policy is consistent with any Council decisions resulting from the Community Fund review, staff recommend that Komiti Māori authorises the General Manager Strategic Engagement to make amendments to the Policy to incorporate any minor changes informed by decisions on the Community Funding review. Any substantive changes will be presented to Komiti Māori for approval.

Of note, the Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā) will be reviewed in Year 3 of the LTP so that any proposed changes will be brought to Komiti Māori before the 2027-2037 draft Long Term Plan is prepared.

3. Draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā)

3.1 Purpose

The Māori Initiative Fund (He Ara Taituarā) aims to support capacity and capability initiatives for tangata whenua, ensuring cost-effectiveness and alignment with other Council funding schemes. Refer to appendix for the Draft Policy.

3.2 Funding Distribution

Staff propose that the $200,000 budgeted for Year 1 of the LTP (1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025), is distributed to tangata whenua who requested support for capacity and capability initiatives to the 2024-2034 LTP. The relevant submissions will be assessed in accordance with the Assessment process set out in the draft Policy and will require careful consideration. Staff will seek advice from the Toi Moana Constituent Māori Councillors to ensure the funding is allocated equitably in the region and for initiatives that meet the purpose of the fund. Staff will also engage with the LTP applicants to understand if their proposals are eligible and the level of support that can be provided, including access to technical expertise and resources. Recommendations on funding will be referred to the General Manager Strategic Engagement for approval.

In Year 2 and Year 3 of the LTP, staff propose that the $200,000 budgeted per annum is divided into two separate funds. $150,000 would be budgeted to a contestable fund for medium to large initiatives/projects. $50,000 would be budgeted to a fund based on eligibility for smaller initiatives/projects. A maximum grant of $5,000 could be allocated under this fund on a first approved basis until fully allocated. Staff will seek advice from the Toi Moana Constituent Māori Councillors to ensure the funding is allocated equitably in the region and for initiatives that meet the purpose of the fund. Recommendations on funding will be referred to the General Manager Strategic Engagement for approval.

The draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā) sets out the application process for each fund:

Year 1: $200,000 budgeted to funding requests from tangata whenua who submitted to the 2024-2034 LTP.

Year 2/3: $150,000 budgeted to a contestable fund for medium to large initiatives/projects; and $50,000 budgeted to a kaitiaki grant for small projects (up to a maximum amount of $5,000).

(a) He Ara Taituarā Contestable Fund: Allocation of $150,000 per annum. The first funding round will be held in February 2025 and will assess funding applications in the 2025/2026 financial year. The second funding round will be held in February 2026 and will assess funding applications in the 2026/2027 financial year.

(b) Kaitiaki Grant: Allocation of $50,000 per annum. The Kaitiaki Grant will be open for applications throughout the year from 1 July 2025/1 July 2026 and will be available on a first approved basis until fully allocated. Applicants can apply for up to $5,000 per financial year.

The He Ara Taituarā Contestable Fund will allow Council to compare medium to large projects against each other and allocate funding according to common criteria, similar to the Community Initiatives Fund. This is a reasonable and equitable way to fund projects where the need in the community exceeds the funding that Council has available. It also provides Council the opportunity to establish multi-year funding agreements and allocate different funding amounts based on the strength of the kaupapa and ability to deliver on the outcomes.

The Kaitiaki Grant is intended to support smaller projects that enable iwi and hapū kaitiakitanga by contributing to capacity and capability projects that are in the conceptual stages of development. Projects scopes may include:

· Enhancing capacity and capability for the protection/preservation and promotion of mātauranga Māori in relation to natural resources and te taiao.

· Consideration of capacity and capability requirements to participate effectively in resource management decision-making.

· Wānanga, scoping reports, site visits, SHIE assessment/qualification, supporting rangatahi in the taiao.

3.3 Implementation

It is proposed that the fund is managed by the General Manager Strategic Engagement and reported through Komiti Māori. The General Manager and relevant staff will ensure they seek advice from the Toi Moana Māori Constituent Councillors when making recommendations and decisions on the funding allocation.

4. Ngā Whakaarohanga
Considerations

4.1 Ngā Mōrea me Ngā Whakangāwaritanga
Risks and Mitigations

The current economic climate and fiscal limitations of Council requires prioritisation of our work. Through the LTP process, it was clear that the need amongst tangata whenua exceeds what Council can support and that a robust Policy would be required to make decisions on funding.

Staff have taken into consideration the broad range of capacity and capability initiatives requesting support through the LTP and have developed a mixed-model approach with an appropriate assessment process to match the level of funding being requested. This will ensure that medium-large initiatives seeking large funding support will undergo a comprehensive and holistic assessment while small initiatives that only require a grant have a less onerous assessment applied.

The Māori Initiatives Fund (He Ara Taituarā) is also aimed at iwi, hapū groups and Māori land trusts who have land interests in the Bay of Plenty region. These groups exercise specific kaitiaki obligations in relation to the taiao. It is their capacity and capability that Council intends to support and strengthen to participate in Council decision-making processes.

Mitigating and managing expectations will need to be carefully managed. Staff will continue to seek ways to support iwi, hapū groups and Māori land trusts using existing resources and access to technical experts.

4.2 Huringa Āhuarangi
Climate Change

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

4.3 Ngā Pānga ki te Māori
Implications for Māori

Council has specific responsibilities under section 81 of the Local Government Act 2002 to support the development of Māori capacity and capability to contribute to Council decision making processes. This is reflected in Te Ara Poutama to support Council meeting this obligation.

The priority areas relating to Māori outcomes and the goals set out under Te Ara Poutama, set a timeframe for delivering key initiatives and building partnership arrangements with Māori. Central to this work is the development and implementation of the Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā) to further support Māori capacity and capability over the next three years. It was evident through the LTP submissions and presentations that the ability of tangata whenua to participate in Council decision-making and operations as kaitiaki, will require ongoing Council support.

As work in this area is progressed, it is anticipated that operational solutions and opportunities within other Activity Areas will be identified that will support an integrated Council approach to funding and resource requests from tangata whenua. This may include shared contribution from existing operational budgets or co-funding from existing Council funding mechanisms where capacity and capability initiatives deliver on other community outcomes. This will simplify the funding process for tangata whenua but will also provide for integrated decision-making across Council Activity Areas.

4.4 Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori
Community Engagement

Staff engaged directly with tangata whenua during the LTP consultation process. The recommendations in this report identify Councils response to the engagement that was undertaken. Further engagement is also required with LTP submitters who sought funding for capacity and capability initiatives and may be eligible to receive funding under the Māori Initiatives Fund (He Ara Taituarā), as part of the implementation of the Policy in Year 1.

A Communications and Engagement Plan is required to ensure that the Māori Initiatives Fund (He Ara Taituarā) is socialised to all tangata whenua in our region. Although staff will be engaging directly with LTP submitters who may be eligible for funding in Year 1, the fund is available for all tangata whenua in the region that meet the criteria in Year 2 and Year 3. The timeframes between the adoption of the Policy and the first funding round for the He Ara Taituarā Contestable Fund are relatively short, so effective and direct communication with tangata whenua on the Policy is essential.

4.5 Ngā Pānga ā-Pūtea
Financial Implications

There are no material unbudgeted financial implications and this fits within the allocated budget approved through the 2024-2034 LTP.

5. Ngā Mahi Whai Ake
Next Steps

Following direction from this hui, staff will finalise the draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taitaurā) and begin implementation. The policy will be socialised with support from the Strategic Communications Team.

Tuhinga Tautoko
Attachments

Attachment 1 - Draft Māori Initiatives Fund Policy (He Ara Taituarā) ⇩

Komiti Māori 27 August 2024



Report To:	Komiti Māori
Meeting Date:	27 August 2024
Report Authoriser:	Kataraina O’Brien, General Manager Strategic Engagement

Tiamana o Komiti Maori - Ripoata

Executive Summary

This report provides an update on matters of interest to Komiti Māori both regionally and nationally.

It includes a brief profile on our guest speakers for this meeting who are:

a) Akira Huriwai-McTavish – Masters Dissertation “How effective forms of co-governance produce positive environmental outcomes?”;

b) Kirikowhai Mikaere – Regional census information, specifically Māori demographics;

c) Chris Karamea Insley – Strategic Science and Innovation Partnership – Mangaroa Incorporation and Scion;

d) Toi Kai Rawa Update by Kerri Anne Hancock and Jay Tihema.

Recommendations

That the Komiti Māori:

1 Receives the report, Tiamana o Komiti Maori - Ripoata.

1. Guest Speakers

1.1 Masters Dissertation – “How effective forms of co-governance produce positive environmental outcomes?”

Akira Huriwai-McTavish (Graduate Geospatial Analyst, WSP) – Waikato-Tainui,
Te Arawa, Tauranga Moana

Akira pursued a Bachelor of Science majoring in Geography and Environmental Studies and was offered the opportunity to complete a Master of Indigenous Studies with support from the National Science Challenge to produce a piece of work looking at the relationship between co-governance and positive environmental outcomes. Akira’s dissertation sought to understand the connection between co-governance and environmental outcomes. The findings of her dissertation will provide the basis of her presentation.

Her research sought to explore this connection by asking the following three critical questions:

· What factors contribute to the effectiveness of a co-governance entity?

· What are ways to mitigate the impacts of power imbalances to remain effective?

· How can you bridge the gap between theoretical thinking and practical implementation?

Her dissertation focused specifically on Te Maru o Kaituna River Authority. Her research found several ways in which Te Maru o Kaituna created tangible improvements for the river and its communities.

1.2 Regional Census Information, specifically Māori demographics

Kirikowhai Mikaere (Lead Technical Advisor National Iwi (Tribal) Chairs Forum) – Te Arawa, Tūhourangi, Ngāti Whakaue

Kirikowhai Mikaere is a leading Māori data and information specialist focused on harnessing information to empower indigenous community development. She is a consultant with over 20 years’ experience advising Ministers, government agencies, tribal, community and private sector organisations with practical statistical analysis and innovative place-based data solutions.

Ms Mikaere is currently the lead technical advisor to the Aotearoa New Zealand National Iwi (Tribal) Chairs Forum - Data Leadership Group, leads the independent trust Te Kāhui Raraunga and holds governance positions across the private sector and government, including with her tribe (Chair - Tūhourangi Tribal Authority, Trustee – Te Pumautanga o Te Arawa), Māori Health provider Manaaki Ora Trust (Deputy Chair), a Director of Waimangu Volcanic Valley and is a Ministerial appointed member of the New Zealand Science Board.

Her kōrero today will focus on Māori census information for the Bay of Plenty.

1.3 Strategic Science and Innovation Partnership – Mangaroa Incorporation and Scion

Chris Karamea Insley – Te Whānau ā Apanui, Ngāti Porou

Chris Karamea Insley is the Chair of Mangaroa Incorporation. Mangaroa Incorporation represents Māori owned land located in the Ōpōtiki district of the Bay of Plenty region. The area of interest is approximately 12,000 hectares (ha), of which approximately 8,500 ha are in native ngāhere (bush) and 2,000 ha in exotic pine plantations.

Mangaroa Incorporation is poised to sign a new and exciting strategic partnership with New Zealand’s leading Forestry Research Institute in Rotorua, Scion. This is significant for the incorporation and brings together their board and leaders within their community, with leaders of Government, the investment community and the world-leading scientists within Scion.

Chris will be presenting this exciting new opportunity and will focus on how they have agreed to work together to explore research and collaboration opportunities in the initial areas of:

· Transition forestry (Plantation to Indigenous and Carbon forests);

· Biodiversity (Recognition of and monetisation of Biodiversity attributes);

· Whole of System Sustainable Resource Management and Use (e.g. sedimentation impact on moana of current land-uses);

· Other relevant areas going forward including opportunities to grow Mangaroa rangatahi into the science, research, technology and innovation fields.

1.4 Toi Kai Rawa Update

Kerri Anne Hancock (Trustee and Deputy Chair) - Ngāti Whakaue, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Tarāwhai

Kerri Anne’s background is primarily in Treaty settlement negotiations, and she has worked as a consultant on locally significant kaupapa such as Rotorua Reorua, the Te Arawa Health Strategy. Her company Kaupare has been instrumental in the roll out of Aotearoa Reoua (Bi-lingual towns and cities) as well as other planning and strategy work for iwi entities.

Jay Tihema (Operations Manager) – Ngāti Apa, Ngāti Tūwharetoa

Jay Tihema has a background in career and community development, working across education, industry and local government sectors. Jay is a Trustee of Creative Bay of Plenty | Te Waka Auaha Toi. Jay is passionate in creating opportunities to build connection and capability in the community, with a specific focus on working with rangatahi.

Kerri Anne and Jay will speak to the outcomes of the funding provided to Toi Kai Rawa (TKR) through the Long Term Plan 2021-20231 and provide an overview of TKR’s future direction.

Toi Kai Rawa is a regional Māori economic development organisation for the Bay of Plenty, delivering ‘by Māori for Māori’ solutions. TKR’s purpose is to advance the prosperity of Māori across the wider Bay of Plenty.

To enhance Māori capacity and capability, Council provided TKR with $600k funding through the Long Term Plan 2021-2031. This included a core funding component of $100k per annum with the remainder in support of three specified projects:

1. Strategic Business Case for Social Procurement framework and prototype;

2. Strategic Business Case for Whenua Māori Solutions Lab;

3. Hihiko Te Rawa Auaha (Innovation Hubs).

2. Māori Data Release

On 29 May 2024, the first tranche of 2023 Census Māori descent data was released through the iwi designed and operated platform, Te Whata. This was a release jointly made by Te Kāhui Raraunga and Stats NZ.

Te Kāhui Raraunga is an independent body established in 2019 to lead the work on behalf of the Data Iwi Leaders Group (Data ILG). This release was made possible under the Mana Ōrite Relationship agreement between the Data ILG and Stats NZ.

There are 3 planned data releases for 2024:

· 29 May – Māori descent count, both national and regional (iwi level) including change -/+, age distribution and median age.

· 26 September – Māori descent and iwi affiliation data. Individuals and dwellings.

· 31 October – Māori descent and iwi affiliation data. Families, extended families, and household data. (Including education, health, housing and people specific data as per data gathered by Stats NZ)

Te Whata, the digital platform that houses this information has nominated navigators/administrators from each of the iwi of which Stats NZ collect data on. These navigators have already engaged in training and have further training planned by Te Kāhui Raraunga, to upskill iwi to better utilise their own data when and as required whether dealing internally within their iwi constructs or when engaging with both local and central government.

3. Treaty Settlement Update

There are four settlements at various stages with specific natural resources arrangements that will require some degree of implementation action from Council within the next 1-2 years, as set out in the table below.

Settlement	New Activity
Ngāti Whare Claims Settlement Act 2012 and the Ngāti Manawa Claims Settlement Act 2012	The 10-year review of the Rangitaiki River Document.
Ngāti Rangitihi Claims Settlement Act 2022	The Tarawera Awa Restoration Strategy Document.
Ngā Hapū o Te Whānau a Apanui Claims Settlement Bill (Note signing of the Deed of Settlement has been postponed by the Crown)	The Te Whānau a Apanui Te Ao Turoa framework, including: · A local authority agreement; · Te Whānau a Apanui rohe document; and · A freshwater management plan.
Whakatōhea Claims Settlement Act 2024	The Whakatōhea Kaitiaki Forum, Te Rautaki Kaitiaki, including: · particularly joint management agreement(s).

4. Update on Regional Pest Management Plan

The Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) was developed under the Biosecurity Act 1993 (the Act) and is the key regional policy document to direct the management of pests in the Bay of Plenty region. The Act provides for a Council to review an RPMP in part where the plan is failing to meet its objectives or circumstances have changed since the plan commenced. Following a partial review of the RPMP, Council approved notification of proposed amendments to the RPMP to reflect emerging issues.

Of particular interest to Māori is the proposed inclusion of exotic Caulerpa and Corbicula (often referred to as gold clam) and introduced turtles alongside new and amended rules to better manage their spread. These pests threaten the general mauri of Te Ao.

The Act requires tangata whenua of the area who may be affected by the RPMP (or proposed amendments to the RPMP) to be consulted through iwi authorities and tribal rūnanga. Staff will advise each of these entities of the proposed changes and be available to meet and discuss during the submission period (20 August to 24 September). Public notification and targeted communication channels will also be used to inform the wider community of the proposed changes and invite input.

5. Local Government (Water Services Preliminary Arrangements) Bill

The Select Committee overseeing the proposed Bill released their final report on 18 July 2024 and by majority recommended it be passed. The Committee also recommended all amendments by majority.

This Bill is the second of three pieces of legislation relating to the delivery of water services that the Government has announced it intends to introduce:

1. The Water Services Acts Repeal Act 2024 repealed the previous Government’s approach to reforming water services. This received Royal assent on 16 February 2024;

2. This Bill would establish preliminary arrangements for the delivery of water services;

3. The Government plans to introduce a bill in December 2024 that would establish the enduring legislative settings for water services.

6. National Iwi Chairs Forum

The next 2024 National Iwi Chairs hui will be hosted by Ngāti Kahungunu in October, with the final one being hosted in Te Tai Tonga by Ngāi Tahu iwi. The forum is a platform to share knowledge and strategies and forge stronger relationships amongst all iwi. A new initiative falling out of the NCIF is the work completed in conjunction with ‘Ngā Rangatahi a Iwi’ to publish and present to the United Nations an independent monitoring mechanism.

7. Resource Management (Extended Duration of Coastal Permits for Marine Farms) Amendment Bill

The Bill amends the RMA to extend the duration of all resource consents (coastal permits) required to operate existing marine farms by 20 years, but not beyond 2050.

For the Bay of Plenty region there are four current operational marine farms and one marine farming research site:

1. Ōhiwa Harbour Oyster Farm (operating 3 marine farms), approved in 1968;

2. Whakatōhea open ocean mussel farm out from Ōpōtiki, first approved in 2008; and

3. A RMA permit for marine farming research sites near Te Kaha, approved July 2024.

The Ōhiwa Oyster Farm was established under three different pre-RMA permits that were granted in 1968. The original permits still apply and are due to expire on 1 January 2025. The farm is within the Ōhiwa harbour and is small with just two established areas of two hectares each. The third permit is not in use.

The Eastern Sea Farms mussel farm is an open ocean mussel farm out from Ōpōtiki. The 3,800ha mussel farm was approved in 2008 with a 20-year consent duration. Another consent was granted in 2020 for an additional 956 hectares of marine farm and is due to expire in 2040. The consents contain conditions for management, monitoring, reporting and review.

The Te Kaha marine farming research sites operated by Te Huata Charitable Trust holds a permit approved in July 2024 for approximately 4ha of offshore marine farms. The project involves the establishment of a network of small-scale marine farming research sites off the coast of Te Kaha to provide research for a proposed large-scale offshore marine farm of both shellfish and seaweeds and a land-based spat hatchery and research facility.

8. Implications for Māori

This report covers a wide range of kaupapa that interest Council’s relationship with Māori at a regional and national level. These kaupapa represent recognition of the value that Te Ao Māori contribute to society. Although these kaupapa are substantive they represent just a sample of the many kaupapa that Māori and tangata whenua are confronting which directly impacts on their relationship with Council.

The many opportunities presented in this report are overall positive for our relationship with Māori and should be balanced against the ability for Māori to participate.

Existing capacity barriers, competing priorities and demands, the management of finite iwi time, resources, people, and their own respective priorities will determine the level of Māori participation.