Huihuinga O Te Kāhui Māori O Taitokerau Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party Thursday 9 June 2022 at 11.00am - 2.30pm

 

9 June 2022

Rārangi Take O Te Kāhui Māori O Taitokerau

(Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party Agenda)

 

 

Please note: working parties and working groups carry NO formal decision-making delegations from council. The purpose of the working party/group is to carry out preparatory work and discussions prior to taking matters to the full council for formal consideration and decision-making. Working party/group meetings are open to the public to attend (unless there are specific grounds under LGOIMA for the public to be excluded).

 

NGĀ MANA WHAKAHAERE

(MEMBERSHIP OF THE Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party)

 

Heamana Tokorua (Co-Chairs): Marty Robinson, Councillor and Pita Tipene, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Hine

 

Alan Riwaka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Whātua

Amy Macdonald, Councillor

Colin Kitchen, Councillor

Georgina Connelly, Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust

Jack Craw, Councillor

Janelle Beazley, Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi-O-Ngāpuhi

Joce Yeoman, Councillor

Juliane Chetham, Patuharakeke Te Iwi Trust Board

Justin Blaikie, Councillor

Lynette Wharerau, Te Whakaminenga O Te Hikutu Hapu-Whanau

Michelle Elboz, Ngāti Kuta, Patukeha

Mike Kake, Ngāti Hau

Mira Norris, Te Parawhau Hapū Authority Charitable Trust

Mariameno Kapa Kingi, Te Rūnanga Nui o Te Aupōuri

Nora Rameka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Rehia

Pania Greaves, Ngāti Tara (TBC)

Penny Smart, Councillor (Chair, NRC)

Rick Stolwerk, Councillor

Rihari Dargaville, Te Rūnanga o Te Rarawa

Rowan Tautari, Te Whakapiko Hapū

Terry Archer, Councillor

Thomas Hohaia, Te Roroa

Waimarie Kingi, Te Waiāriki, Ngāti Korora, Ngāti Taka Hapū Iwi Trust

William Sullivan, Ngātiwai Trust Board

 

 

 

 

 

TTMAC representatives on other working parties

Māori Technical Advisory Group

Georgina Connelly, Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust

Janelle Beazley, Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi-O-Ngāpuhi

Juliane Chetham, Patuharakeke Te Iwi Trust Board

Mira Norris, Te Parawhau Hapū Authority Charitable Trust

Nora Rameka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Rehia

Rowan Tautari, Te Whakapiko Hapū

William Sullivan, Ngātiwai Trust Board

Planning and Regulatory Working Party

Juliane Chetham, Patuharakeke Te Iwi Trust Board

Mira Norris, Te Parawhau Hapū Authority Charitable Trust

Rowan Tautari, Te Whakapiko Hapū

William Sullivan, Ngātiwai Trust Board

Water and Land Working Party

Alan Riwaka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Whātua

Georgina Connelly, Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust

Janelle Beazley, Te Rūnanga-Ā-Iwi-O-Ngāpuhi

Mira Norris, Te Parawhau Hapū Authority Charitable Trust

Waimarie Kingi, Te Waiāriki, Ngāti Korora, Ngāti Taka Hapū Iwi Trust

Climate Change Working Party

Nora Rameka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Rehia

Rihari Dargaville, Te Rūnanga o Te Rarawa

Rowan Tautari, Te Whakapiko Hapū

Thomas Hohaia, Te Roroa

Biosecurity and Biodiversity Working Party

Georgina Connelly, Te Uri o Hau Settlement Trust

Juliane Chetham, Patuharakeke Te Iwi Trust Board

Michelle Elboz, Ngāti Kuta, Patukeha

Nora Rameka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Rehia

Joint Climate Change Adaptation Governance Committee

Rihari Dargaville, Te Rūnanga o Te Rarawa

Thomas Hohaia, Te Roroa (proxy)

Local Government Elections subgroup

Mike Kake, Ngāti Hau

Nora Rameka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Rehia

Pita Tipene, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Hine

Strategic (Priorities) Intent subgroup 2021

Lynette Wharerau, Te Whakaminenga O Te Hikutu Hapu-Whanau

Mike Kake, Ngāti Hau

Mira Norris, Te Parawhau Hapū Authority Charitable Trust

Nora Rameka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Rehia

Pita Tipene, Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Hine

Tāngata Whenua Water Advisory Group

Alan Riwaka, Te Rūnanga O Ngāti Whātua

Rowan Tautari, Te Whakapiko Hapū

Lynette Wharerau, Te Whakaminenga O Te Hikutu Hapu-Whanau

 

Meeting Dates for 2022 – some dates may be subject to change

TTMAC	MTAG	Water and Land WP	Planning & Regulatory WP	Climate Change WP	Biosecurity & Biodiversity WP
10 February*	3 February	1 March	1 March	23 February	23 February
10 March	3 March	3 May	3 May	25 May	25 May
14 April*	7 April	2 August	2 August	31 August	31 August
12 May 19 May	5 May	(1 November)	(1 November)	(30 November)	(30 November)
9 June*	2 June
14 July	7 July
11 August*	4 August
8 September	1 September
13 October*	6 October
(10 November)	(3 November)
(November *)	(November)		*These are TTMAC regional workshops.

 

 

 

 

 

Commonly used terms and abbreviations

Appointed member – one of the (up to) twenty-one appointed iwi and hapū members from Te Taitokerau tāngata whenua. Members are appointed in accordance with the Terms of Reference. In addition to appointed members there are nine elected members (councillors) AP - Annual Plan TTMAC caucus – is comprised of appointed (tāngata whenua) members CEO - Chief Executive Officer CPCA - Community Pest Control Areas DOC - Department of Conservation FNDC - Far North District Council GIS - Geographic Information System HEMP - Hapū Environmental Management Plan IEMP - Iwi Environmental Management Plan ILGACE - Iwi and Local Government Chief Executives Forum KDC - Kaipara District Council  LAWA – Land, Air, Water Aotearoa LEA - Local Electoral Act 2001 LGA - Local Government Act 2002 LGNZ - Local Government New Zealand LIDAR – Light detection and ranging LTP - Long Term Plan

MBIE – Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment MFE - Ministry for the Environment MOT - Ministry of Transport MPI - Ministry for Primary Industries MTAG - Māori Technical Advisory Group (a sub-group of TTMAC) NES - National Environmental Standards NINC - Northland Inc. Limited NIWA - National Institute of Water and Atmosphere NPS - National Policy Statement NPS-FM - National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management RMA - Resource Management Act 1991 RP – Regional Plan TAG - Technical Advisory Group TKoT – Te Kahu o Taonui TTMAC - Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party TTNEAP – Tai Tokerau Northland Economic Action Plan TOR - Terms of Reference TPK - Te Puni Kōkiri (Ministry of Maori Development) TWWAG – Tāngata Whenua Water Advisory Group WDC - Whangarei District Council

 

 

 

KARAKIA / WHAKATAU

 

RĪMITI (ITEM)                                                                                                                                          Page

1.0      Ngā Mahi Whakapai/Housekeeping

2.0      NGĀ WHAKAPAHĀ/apologies   

3.0      NGA WHAKAPUAKANGA/declarations of interest

4.0      Ngā Rīmiti (Items)

record of actions, action sheet, strategic intent

4.1      Record of Actions – 19 May 2022                                                                          4

4.2      Receipt of Action Sheet                                                                                          11

4.3      Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party Strategic Intent 2021 - 2040

Attachment 1       Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party Strategic Intent 2021 - 2040                                                 17

water / marine

4.4      Northern Waters - Te Wai Ora Mai Tāmaki ki Te Rerenga Wairua              18

4.5      Draft Freshwater Framework                                                                               36

4.6      Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group - membership update                  62

4.7      Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group Update                                            63

4.8      Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group - Stage 1 Report                            64

economic development

4.9      Economic development: Examples from the Ngāwhā Innovation and Enterprise Park                                                                                                         65

capacity and capability

4.10    Te Tiriti Health Check                                                                                              66

climate crisis

4.11    Māori Representation Climate Crisis                                                                  69

4.12    Te Ao Māori Decision Making Framework Update                                          71

4.13    Joint regional submission on the draft National Adaptation Plan Submission                                                                                                              152

Māori representation

4.14    Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party: Communications Review                                                                                                                                   194

reports for noting

4.15    Reports from other working party and groups                                              197

4.16    Chief Executive’s Report to Council                                                                  199

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Record of Actions – 19 May 2022
From:	Sally Bowron, Strategy, Governance and Engagement Team Admin/PA
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on 1 June 2022

 

The purpose of this report is to present the Record of Actions of the last meeting (attached) held on 19 May 2022  for review by the meeting.

 

Attachment 1: Unconfirmed Record of Actions for 19 May 2022 ⇩   

9 June 2022Attachment 1

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Receipt of Action Sheet
From:	Sally Bowron, Strategy, Governance and Engagement Team Admin/PA
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on 1 June 2022

 

The purpose of this report is to enable the meeting to receive the current action sheet.

 

That the action sheet be received.

 

Attachment 1: Action sheet ⇩   

9 June 2022Attachment 1

9 June 2022Attachment 1

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Northern Waters - Te Wai Ora Mai Tāmaki ki Te Rerenga Wairua
From:	Colin Dall, Pou Whakaritenga - Group Manager Regulatory Services
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Colin Dall, Pou Whakaritenga - Group Manager Regulatory Services, on 31 May 2022

 

The purpose of this report is to introduce the group Northern Waters and the current operational work that is being done across the councils of Te Taitokerau and Tāmaki Makaurau.  This is an operational group that was established by the five councils to ensure that consideration for Northland water assets and infrastructure can inform and prepare for the establishment of “Entity A” under the government’s Three Waters Reform Programme. 

 

Northern Waters consists of a working group of senior managers from all five councils and Watercare (a council-controlled organisation, wholly owned by Auckland Council) and was established in June 2021 to prepare for the establishment of Entity A. This group has become known as “Northern Waters - Te Wai Ora Mai Tāmaki ki Te Rerenga Wairua”.

 

Northern Waters scope of works is operational, and this group is not involved with the governance aspect that is being developed by central government in regard to the Three Waters Reform Programme. However, in consideration of Te Mana o Te Wai and Te Tiriti O Waitangi the Northern Waters group has begun engaging with iwi and hapū and the various workstreams.  It will present Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC) with an overview of the work it has done to date in preparation for the establishment of Entity A and seeks guidance from TTMAC on how to meaningfully engage with iwi and hapū in Te Taitokerau.

 

1.         That the report ‘Presentation by Northern Waters - Te Wai Ora Mai Tāmaki ki Te Rerenga Wairua’ by Colin Dall, Pou Whakaritenga - Group Manager Regulatory Services and dated 27 May 2022, be received.

2.         That the Māori Technical Advisory Group (MTAG) be endorsed to consider how Northern Waters can be cognisant of Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party’s Strategic Intent and whainga regarding Wai and how this will be impacted by the reforms.

As part of its Three Waters Reform Programme, the Government has proposed the creation of four new water services entities (currently known as “A”, “B”, “C” and “D”) to manage the water supply, wastewater and stormwater services currently managed by councils. The entities are due to go live on 1 July 2024.

 

Te Taitokerau and Tāmaki Makaurau make up the area covered by Entity A. It contains five councils (Auckland, Northland Regional, Whangarei, Far North and Kaipara), almost 40% of the New Zealand’s population and more than 300 iwi/hapū.

 

One of the main objectives of the new entities is to give effect to Te Mana o Te Wai and Te Tiriti O Waitangi. The Government also wants to ensure that the creation of the four new entities improves outcomes for Māori in relation to three waters service delivery.

 

Attachment 1: Three Waters Reform boiled down – a quick overview provided by the Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) ⇩

Attachment 2: Three Waters Reform Water Service Entities - provided by DIA ⇩  

 

9 June 2022Attachment 1

9 June 2022Attachment 2

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Draft Freshwater Framework
From:	Justin Murfitt, Strategic Policy Specialist
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Jonathan Gibbard, Pou Tiaki Taiao – Group Manager Environmental Services, on 1 June 2022

 

This report presents a Draft Freshwater Framework for consideration by Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC). The draft framework outlines the council’s goals, priorities, and approaches for freshwater management over the next 10 years. The draft framework reflects commitments in the 2021 Long Term Plan and the key steps planned to deliver on central government direction in ‘essential freshwater’. The framework is essentially a ‘roadmap’ to provide an outline of councils key issues, goals and actions for freshwater management over the next 10 years – it will also provide a means for council to track progress against those goals and actions. It is intended as a ‘living document’ and to be reviewed following long term plans and / or significant change in government policy to ensure it remains current. 

 

The intent to develop a freshwater framework was presented to the TTMAC meeting of 14 October 2021. Recommended actions from that meeting were that the Māori Technical Advisory Group (MTAG) be engaged to provide input into the draft. The draft framework was circulated to MTAG in December 2021.  An update was provided to the 10 March 2022 meeting of TTMAC where further MTAG input was recommended. The draft framework has since been discussed at MTAG meetings on 7 April and 12 May 2022. Feedback received has been largely incorporated into the draft framework attached (Attachment 1).

 

The next steps are to seek council adoption of the draft framework (ideally at the June council meeting) and to develop and publish a more user-friendly version to the council website.

 

1.         That the report ‘Draft Freshwater Framework’ by Justin Murfitt, Strategic Policy Specialist and dated 26 May 2022, be received.

2.         That TTMAC provide any final comments on the Draft Freshwater Framework

3.         That TTMAC endorse council adoption of the draft freshwater framework.

 

The next steps are to seek council adoption of the draft framework (ideally at the June council meeting) and to develop and publish a more user-friendly version to the council website.

Staff would greatly appreciate any final feedback from TTMAC prior to council considering adoption of the framework at the June 2022 council meeting.

 

Attachment 1: Draft Freshwater Framework ⇩  

 

9 June 2022Attachment 1

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group - membership update
From:	Alison Newell, Policy Specialist
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Jonathan Gibbard, Pou Tiaki Taiao – Group Manager Environmental Services, on 27 May 2022

 

At the last Te Taitokerau Maori and Council (TTMAC) meeting, it was agreed TTMAC and Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group (TWWAG) members could provide nominations for a replacement for Karyn Nikora-Kerr who had stepped down by 27 May.  At the date of writing, two nominations had been received (Hone Tiatoa and Niki Conrad).

 

The Selection Panel (Justin Blaikie, Juliane Chetham, Mira Norris and Joce Yeoman) will meet prior to the 9 June TTMAC hui to consider those two nominations and any others received by the deadline. A verbal recommendation to TTMAC for endorsement to council for agreement will be provided to the meeting. 

 

1.         That the report ‘Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group - membership update’ by Alison Newell, Policy Specialist and dated 26 May 2022, be received.

2.         That the recommendations of the Selection Panel be considered and endorsed to Council if appropriate.

Not relevant

Nil

 

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group Update
From:	Alison Newell, Policy Specialist
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Jonathan Gibbard, Pou Tiaki Taiao – Group Manager Environmental Services, on 27 May 2022

 

The co-chairs of the Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group will provide a verbal update on the group’s progress since their last report to Te Taitokerau Maori and Council Working Party.

 

1.         That the report ‘Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group Update’ by Alison Newell, Policy Specialist and dated 26 May 2022, be received.

Not applicable.

Nil

 

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group - Stage 1 Report
From:	Alison Newell, Policy Specialist
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Jonathan Gibbard, Pou Tiaki Taiao – Group Manager Environmental Services, on 27 May 2022

 

At the 19 May Te Taitokerau Maori and Council (TTMAC) meeting, members provided verbal feedback on the Stage 1 Report “Te Mana me te Mauri o Te Wai” which provides a foundation for the next phases of the Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group’s (TWWAG’s) work.  The report is being revised in light of that feedback for TTMAC’s further consideration and endorsement to council and will be circulated as soon as possible prior to the meeting.

 

The Stage 1 Report is a background document which has drawn from a literature review of HEMPs/IMPs and other reports, and discussions in TWWAG workshops and is not intended to be all encompassing.  This report will be part of a broader supporting package of information that council will use in its section 32 Resource Management Act (RMA) analysis for the freshwater plan change, alongside the further work that TWWAG is now engaged on.

 

1.         That the report ‘Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group - Stage 1 Report’ by Alison Newell, Policy Specialist and dated 26 May 2022, be received.

2.         That the Stage 1 Report be endorsed for presentation to council.

At the 19 May TTMAC meeting, the agreed action points were that:

1.    TTMAC and TWWAG members work together to strengthen the Stage 1 report with the final draft being tabled at the June meeting.

2.    TTMAC members provide their email feedback on the Stage 1 Report by 27 May.

3.    Council organise a zui if necessary.

A verbal update will be provided at the meeting as to additional comment and feedback received by TTMAC members by 27 May.  At the time of writing this report no further written or verbal feedback had been received from TTMAC members on the draft Stage 1 report.

The Stage 1 report is being revised in light of the feedback received and will be circulated to TTMAC as soon as possible prior to the 9 June meeting for endorsement to present to council.

 

Nil

 

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Economic development: Examples from the Ngāwhā Innovation and Enterprise Park
From:	Darryl Jones, Economist and Emmanouela Galanou, Economic Policy Advisor
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on 1 June 2022

 

Following the discussion on economic development at the Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC) meeting on 19 May 2022 (Item 4.10), two immediate actions have been taken to provide resources and information to inform the conversation on how the desired goals for economic development listed within TTMAC’s strategic intent can be progressed.

 

·    Two complimentary presentations will be provided to this TTMAC Working Party meeting highlighting some specific actions being taken by hapū and Northland Inc at the Ngāwhā Innovation and Enterprise Park (NIEP).

 

o  Manga Wihongi and Alistair Clarke (Ngāti Rangi) will present on their manuka oil distillery project

 

o  Wayne Rogers (Northland Inc) will present on the work being done on skills and employment development

 

·    A presentation will be provided to the following TTMAC Working Party meeting (14 July) on council’s Investment and Growth Reserve (IGR), with a focus on the Project Development category of funding of the IGR that can be accessed through Northland Inc. Background information the IGR can be found online at https://www.nrc.govt.nz/your-council/economic-development/investment-and-growth-reserve/.

 

 

1.         That the report ‘Economic development: Examples from the Ngāwhā Innovation and Enterprise Park’ by Darryl Jones, Economist and Emmanouela Galanou, Economic Policy Advisor and dated 27 May 2022, be received.

Tip for writing good recommendations:

·  Recommendations should identify all decisions that are needed. 

·  If only one recommendation do not number.

·  Write the option out in full, rather than referring to an option in the report.  Set out clear options for councillors to decide between if necessary. 

·  Recommendations must be within the power of the meeting to make the decision. 

·  Avoid redundant or unnecessary statements and acronyms.

·  If a report is proposed, recommend a realistic date and state to which committee the proposed report back is to be made.

·         If it is deemed that there is high risk associated with a decision then include recognition of risk in the resolution.

Not relevant

Nil

 

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Te Tiriti Health Check
From:	Kim Peita, Maori Relationships Manager and Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on 30 May 2022

 

The Northland Regional Council is proactively working to strengthen and adapt its structures and processes as part of its commitment to building meaningful relationships with tangata whenua that are reflective of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.  The Te Tiriti Health Check is a collaborative review of the council’s organisational capability, including structures and processes of council decision making, policy creation, planning and stakeholder engagement processes.  It will engage at both the strategic and operational level. 

This paper is to provide an update to Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC) on the status of the 2021/22 Treaty Health Check (Health Check) and inform TTMAC of amended timeframes. 

Staff will also make a presentation to TTMAC that will cover:

·    the process to date

·    confirm and introduce the main providers of services that have been contracted to support council’s health check

·    update the implementation plan and the timeframes for recommendations to be provided to TTMAC.

 

1.         That the report ‘Te Tiriti Health Check’ by Kim Peita, Maori Relationships Manager and Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement and dated 3 May 2022, be received.

At the March 2022 meeting the non-elected members of Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC) endorsed that the health check be delivered as a joint executive/governance initiative; and the Te Arawhiti framework underpin health check; and that the Māori Technical Advisory Group’s (MTAG) benchmarking was a starting position.  Three MTAG members Norris, Tautari and Chetham were appointed as the Health Check Advisory Group to assist staff in recommending to council an independent contractor to undertake the Health Check.

The Health Check Advisory Group recommended, based on their experience in the areas of Treaty audits and similar reviews across councils in NZ, that Paul Beverley, Buddle Findlay and Tai Ahu, Whāia Legal be contracted as the independent evaluators of NRC’s performance against the Te Arawhiti Māori Crown Relations Framework as per the benchmarking and setting of expectations as below.

Confirmation of independent evaluators

Subsequent to the March 2022 TTMAC meeting, approval was sought and received from the NRC Chief Executive to engage the services of Buddle Findlay (Paul Beverly) and Whāia Legal (Tai Ahu) to assist in the delivery of council’s Long Term Plan (LTP) Independent Treaty Health Check. The budget for the health check is $50,000  for Year 1, subsequent years $25,000 per annum for review. There is also $100,000 per annum allocated for implementation of recommendations.

A.        Phase 2: Benchmarking and setting expectations

In March 2022, MTAG (on behalf of TTMAC) provided initial direction and guidance by utilising the Te Arawhiti Māori Crown relations capability framework and confirmed the priority areas for Te Tiriti Health Check for June 2022. These were confirmed as Governance, Relationships with Māori and Evaluation of service design and delivery.  The benchmarks set out the priorities for review over the next three years. (See table below MTAG assessment of capabilities.)

Status of health check project deliverables

The table below updates the implementation plan and the timeframes for recommendations to be provided to TTMAC for Phase 7 and Phase 8.

Phase	Detail	Due	Completed
1.	Endorse process/timeline	Dec-21	Completed
2.	Agreeing the benchmark and setting expectations	Jan-22	Completed
3.	Approve process/timeline	Feb-22	Completed
4.	Setting the scope	Feb-22	Completed
5.	Developing the health check approach	Feb-22
6.	Undertake health check	Apr-22	Delays due to COVID & staff changes
7.	Delivering results and recommendations	May-22 June/July 22	As a result of delays new delivery of these for June/July 2022
8.	Council deliberation workshops	Jun-22 July/August 22

 

Nil

 

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Māori Representation Climate Crisis
From:	Victoria Harwood, Pou Tiaki Hapori - GM Community Resilience
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Victoria Harwood, Pou Tiaki Hapori - GM Community Resilience, on 1 June 2022

 

This report outlines the request for Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC) representation on the Climate Change Working Party (CCWP) and the Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee (JCCAC) to be reviewed to enable greater engagement in climate crisis governance during the remainder of this year and in the current governance model.

 

This also contributes to a broader conversation around how council can best engage and partner with tangata whenua in climate crisis governance and decision making into the future.

 

1.         That the report ‘Māori Representation Climate Crisis ’ by Victoria Harwood, Pou Tiaki Hapori - GM Community Resilience and dated 24 May 2022, be received.

2.         That Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC) review Māori representation on the Climate Change Working Party (CCWP) and Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee (JCCAC) and nominate primary Māori representatives who are available to participate at the dates and times set on the Council calendar, and alternate Māori representatives who can attend on their behalf when required. 

3.         That nominated representatives are able to update TTMAC regarding the priorities of the Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee.

Tip for writing good recommendations:

·  Recommendations should identify all decisions that are needed. 

·  If only one recommendation do not number.

·  Write the option out in full, rather than referring to an option in the report.  Set out clear options for councillors to decide between if necessary. 

·  Recommendations must be within the power of the meeting to make the decision. 

·  Avoid redundant or unnecessary statements and acronyms.

·  If a report is proposed, recommend a realistic date and state to which committee the proposed report back is to be made.

·         If it is deemed that there is high risk associated with a decision then include recognition of risk in the resolution.

The Climate Crisis is one of TTMAC’s strategic priorities, with currently four TTMAC member representatives on the Climate Change Working Party and one TTMAC member representative on the Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee.  Due to circumstances and other commitments, some TTMAC representatives are unable to attend either or both the Climate Change Working Party and Joint Committee meetings on a regular basis.

 

Due to the urgency of the Climate Crisis and the importance of te tirohanga Māori, it is vital that there is Māori representation on both the working party and the Joint Committee at each meeting.

 

Current representatives on the CCWP are: Rihari Dargaville, Thomas Hohaia, Rowan Tautari, Nora Rameka.

 

Current representative on the JCCAC is: Rihari Dargaville

 

The dates for the remainder of 2022 are as follows:

Climate Change Working Party	Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee
Wednesday 31 August 09.30am – 11.30am	Monday 29 August 1pm – 4pm
Wednesday 30 November 09.30am – 11.30am	Monday 28 November 1pm – 4pm

 

Having a primary and alternate for the four CCWP member positions and the one Joint Committee member position will assist with ensuring TTMAC has significant contribution to governance and decision making. As representatives report back to their primary/alternate and the wider TTMAC at the next available formal TTMAC meeting on progress of the work programme, this should assist TTMAC members maintain a level of knowledge and understanding of the progression across this mahi.

 

Nil

 

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Te Ao Māori Decision Making Framework Update
From:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on 1 June 2022

 

The purpose of this report is to update members on the project to create a Te Ao Māori Decision Making Framework and to agree on the next steps.

Whangārei District Council, on behalf of the four northern councils is investigating the development of a Te Ao Māori Decision-Making Framework for local government (the Framework). It is intended to respond directly to the way decisions are currently being made by local authorities, and for the Framework to be considered when making decisions at all stages on projects, policy or plans that may impact on the cultural values of iwi and hapū. The project also seeks to understand what ‘Climate Change' means from a Te Ao Māori perspective in Te Taitokerau. The Framework is Priority Action #2 within the Te Taitokerau Climate Change Adaptation Strategy (which has been adopted by all the northern councils).

 

At the Māori Technical Advisory Group’s (MTAG) 12 May meeting, members recommended that the summary report “Responding to Climate Change in Te Tai Tokerau Consultation Summary Report” be reported back to TTMAC for their consideration.

The report is attached, and members of the Te Ao Māori Decision Making Framework project team will be available to answer questions and gather any further feedback.

1.         That the report ‘Te Ao Māori Decision Making Framework Update’ by Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement and dated 25 May 2022, be received.

2.         That the Māori Technical Advisory Group (MTAG) be endorsed to consider how the “Responding to Climate Change in Te Tai Tokerau Consultation Summary Report” can be incorporated into the Strategic Intent’s Ngā Whainga for Climate Crisis and how the work of the Te Ao Māori Decision Making Framework might be supported.

Tip for writing good recommendations:

·  Recommendations should identify all decisions that are needed. 

·  If only one recommendation do not number.

·  Write the option out in full, rather than referring to an option in the report.  Set out clear options for councillors to decide between if necessary. 

·  Recommendations must be within the power of the meeting to make the decision. 

·  Avoid redundant or unnecessary statements and acronyms.

·  If a report is proposed, recommend a realistic date and state to which committee the proposed report back is to be made.

·         If it is deemed that there is high risk associated with a decision then include recognition of risk in the resolution.

The Framework has been established to assist council staff and decision makers with how to work with iwi/Māori and consider Te Ao Māori principles and values when responding to climate change, or when creating relevant council policies and plans.

 

There are multiple projects and programmes that have necessitated the development of a

Framework based on Te Ao Māori values and principles. This includes:

·    The Draft Climate Action Plan which has a direct action to develop a Te Ao Māori decision-making framework.

·    The Climate Adaptation Te Taitokerau Strategy which has been endorsed

·    The Tane Whakapiripiri report prepared by hapū within Whangārei which recommends enhancing the capacity and capability of Māori to be involved in decision making processes.

 

The National Policy Statement on Freshwater Management 2020 also requires local authorities to:

a)    give effect to Te Mana o te Wai

b)    include tangata whenua and communities in developing long term visions for waterbodies, and

c)    actively include tangata whenua in freshwater management (including decision making processes, policy, plans and monitoring).

 

The Framework will not be a substitute for direct engagement or partnership with tangata

whenua. It is also not intended to remove the mana motuhake (mana derived of the land,

separate identity, autonomy, self-governance) that tangata whenua have in decision-making

processes. 

 

Attachment 1: Te Ao Maori Framework and Climate Change Consultation Summary Report_final-mini ⇩  

 

9 June 2022Attachment 1

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Joint regional submission on the draft National Adaptation Plan Submission
From:	Tom FitzGerald, Climate Change Manager
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Victoria Harwood, Pou Tiaki Hapori - GM Community Resilience, on 1 June 2022

 

This report provides the final submission into the draft National Adaptation Plan from the Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee (the JCCAC). Submissions closed with the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) on 3 June 2022. The submission was drafted by staff from across the four Taitokerau councils and was subject to a short but intensive review and feedback period with elected members and Tiriti partners.

 

The final submission as sent to MfE is attached for noting and endorsement.

 

1.         That the report ‘Joint regional submission on the draft National Adaptation Plan Submission’ by Tom FitzGerald, Climate Change Manager and dated 25 May 2022, be received.

2.         That the attached submission be received and endorsed.

Tip for writing good recommendations:

·  Recommendations should identify all decisions that are needed. 

·  If only one recommendation do not number.

·  Write the option out in full, rather than referring to an option in the report.  Set out clear options for councillors to decide between if necessary. 

·  Recommendations must be within the power of the meeting to make the decision. 

·  Avoid redundant or unnecessary statements and acronyms.

·  If a report is proposed, recommend a realistic date and state to which committee the proposed report back is to be made.

·         If it is deemed that there is high risk associated with a decision, then include recognition of risk in the resolution.

The Climate Change Response (Zero Carbon) Amendment Act 2019 introduced a number of new mechanisms to help us address the climate crisis. These include the introduction of the new Climate Commission, and the requirements for a national Emissions Reduction Plan (ERP) and a National Adaptation Plan (NAP). The final ERP was released in full on 16 May 2022.

 

A first draft of the proposed NAP was released for public consultation on 27 April 2022.

 

The NAP will have significant bearing and influence the way we can enable on-ground adaptation and deals with significant issues like roles and responsibilities, funding and managed retreat.

 

Staff have prepared a detailed submission that represents the key region-wide issues and opportunities with the proposed NAP.

 

The submission represents the views of members of the Joint Climate Change Adaptation Committee. Each member Council has undertaken their own internal consultation and approval process – including canvassing the views of relevant staff, Tiriti partners and elected members. For NRC this has involved opportunities for elected members and Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party members to provide direct input into the draft submission, with the final submission being signed off by the Chief Executive under delegated authority. This approach has been necessary due to the short timeframe imposed on us by our central government partners.

 

The final submission is attached.

 

Attachment 1: JCCAC cover letter for NAP Submission ⇩

Attachment 2: CATT Questions Submission to draft National Adaptation Plan ⇩

Attachment 3: Appendix A KDC Specific Considerations ⇩  

 

9 June 2022Attachment 1

9 June 2022Attachment 2

9 June 2022Attachment 3

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party: Communications Review
From:	Liam Ratana, Kaiawhina Pārongo Communications Advisor
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on

 

The purpose of this report is to provide recommendations on a review of current communications including the Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC) Pānui, with the purpose of making improvements to enable greater access to information about TTMAC’s Strategic Intent and the significant work that is being done by TTMAC and council.

 

The scope of the review is as follows and further outlined in the background: 

1.    Review current TTMAC communications

2.    Create a TTMAC Communication Plan review and update current Communications Policy and/or protocols 

3.    Provide recommendations for further development of both the TTMAC Communications Plan and relevant policy/protocols 

4.    Review of face-to-face communication methods 

5.    Review of digital communications, social media platforms (purpose, target audience, etc.), website.

To enable a more fulsome communications platform going forward, a plan will ensure that both iwi, hapū and public are able to engage in the work that is being done by TTMAC and council in a more meaningful way. There also needs to be consideration on how this work can be resourced ongoing at a level that is effective and cognisant of council’s priorities in meaningful relationships with tangata whenua.

 

1.         That the report ‘Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party: Communications Review’ by Liam Ratana, Kaiawhina Pārongo Communications Advisor and dated 26 May 2022, be received.

2.         That a communications plan be created with an accompanying policy document that is presented to TTMAC for their feedback.

3.         That the TTMAC Strategic Intent should be reflected in the Communications Plan and in all communications conducted by TTMAC.

There is currently no specific communications strategy in place for TTMAC. As a result, a communications plan is required to ensure TTMAC maintains effective and professional relationships within the wider collective of whānau, hapū, iwi, and other stakeholders it is charged with representing. The plan will contain detail on tactics that could be employed to ensure this is achieved but will also include detail on how to raise public profile and awareness of TTMAC and its kaupapa.   The plan will also provide guidance on channels and processes to ensure internal communications between committee members are effective and will establish a ‘chain of command’ in the creation of, and approval of, official TTMAC communications.

 

While there is cursory information on TTMAC on the NRC website, a more detailed online information source informing how it was established, its purpose, vision and iwi/hapū representative members would be recommended.

 

PURPOSE: 

The purpose of a Communications Plan is to provide an agreed communications framework for all members of TTMAC to work to. This framework will ensure that standards and practices can be set, managed, and monitored. The plan should provide clear direction on what communications outcomes are desired and how they will be achieved, while remaining flexible enough to change as required. It will enable clear pathways for delegating communications responsibilities and decision making and should be closely tied to the Strategic Intent and Terms of Reference.

 

COMMUNICATIONS RECOMMENDATIONS:  

1. Key messages and FAQs  

Develop a cohesive set of agreed key messages that signal the direction of TTMAC and form the basis of all communications. Weave traditional tikanga concepts into these messages. Also develop all FAQs relating to TTMAC. 

 

2. Website

Develop an improved online information source. This will include the latest news and updates, upcoming kaupapa, history of TTMAC, minutes, committee members, vision, mission, etc. The site should be both interactive and informative. 

 

3. Media Training  

Identify official TTMAC spokespeople and provide media training to ensure all are appropriately prepared to communicate with external stakeholders and media.

  

4. Explore social media potential 

There is currently minimal exposure of TTMAC on social media. There is potential for TTMAC to have a presence on social media, either via existing standalone committee member or iwi platforms, or NRC channels. A strong social media presence is one of the best ways TTMAC can inform and engage with tangata whenua throughout Te Taitokerau but resourcing to create and monitor content will be a factor.

 

5. Member profiles  

Interview and create content profiling the iwi and hapū representatives on TTMAC. Focus on the unique skills and specialties that each representative contributes to the whole, with the aim of increasing pride and connection amongst the groups these people represent. 

 

7. Press releases  

Write regular press releases to promote TTMAC and the work it does. This will encourage pride amongst whānau and raise awareness of the kaupapa of the committee itself.

 

8. Online video series  

Set up an informative speaker series for iwi and hapū, to educate, entertain, and unite those that TTMAC represents. The sessions can be directly related to the mahi being done by TTMAC (i.e. making submissions on the Climate Adaptation Strategy), or mahi being done indirectly by TTMAC (i.e. a member of the committee is working on mapping out coastal areas subject to coastal erosion). 

 

CALENDAR EXAMPLE: 

Timeline	Activity
June	Write strategic communications plan and complete annual calendar
	Key messages and FAQs
	Media training
	Website/microsite complete
July	Social media launch
	Gather content for socials
	Start online video series
	First press release

 

 

Nil

 

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Reports from other working party and groups
From:	Sally Bowron, Strategy, Governance and Engagement Team Admin/PA
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on 1 June 2022

 

The purpose of this report is to present records of actions from council’s other working party meetings that have occurred since the last Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party (TTMAC) meeting. It is also an opportunity for working party Chairs and TTMAC members on working parties to provide a verbal update and answer any questions that may arise.

1.         That the report ‘Reports from other working party and groups’ by Sally Bowron, Strategy, Governance and Engagement Team Admin/PA and dated 31 May 2022, be received.

Tip for writing good recommendations:

·  Recommendations should identify all decisions that are needed. 

·  If only one recommendation do not number.

·  Write the option out in full, rather than referring to an option in the report.  Set out clear options for councillors to decide between if necessary. 

·  Recommendations must be within the power of the meeting to make the decision. 

·  Avoid redundant or unnecessary statements and acronyms.

·  If a report is proposed, recommend a realistic date and state to which committee the proposed report back is to be made.

·         If it is deemed that there is high risk associated with a decision then include recognition of risk in the resolution.

Māori Technical Advisory Group

TTMAC representatives: Juliane Chetham , Georgina Connelly, Nora Rameka, William Sullivan, Janelle Beazley, Mira Norris, Rowan Tautari

The Māori Technical Advisory Group (MTAG) meet regularly on the first Thursday of each month to address mahi referred to them by Te Taitokerau Māori and Council working Party. At the 12 May meeting the following topics were discussed:

·    Te Ao Māori Framework project update

·    GIS mapping and tool (Māori relationship areas of interest)

·    Draft Freshwater Framework

·    Outstanding Natural Landscapes (ONL) mapping in the Coastal Marine Area

·    Mana Whakahono a Rohe update

·    MTAG work tracker

Following discussion, MTAG agreed to the following actions:

·    Recommend providing TTMAC with an update at the next meeting on the summary report of the Te Ao Māori Decision Making project

·    Bring the GIS topic back to the next MTAG meeting to identify what protocol and wananga are needed to capture the correct data

·    Strategic Policy Specialist to circulate the Draft Freshwater Framework and slides for MTAG feedback via email, with the next steps being to incorporate the feedback and take the Draft to the next respective TTMAC and council meetings for endorsement

·    The Policy and Planning Manager to provide council with MTAG;s advice that they did not support either proposal and would not be averse if council wanted to request the Environment Court to delay or not require ONL mapping. If council wants to proceed and says yes to $100,000 budget required, then recommend going to full tender process.

 

Biosecurity and Biodiversity Working Party, Chair Jack Craw

TTMAC representatives: Juliane Chetham , Georgina Connelly, Barb Elboz, Nora Rameka

The Biodiversity and Biosecurity Working Party met on Wednesday 25 May 2022. A summary of the topics and action points will be provided in the July agenda.

 

Climate Change Working Party (Chair: Cr. Amy Macdonald)

TTMAC representatives: Nora Rameka, Rihari Dargaville, Rowan Tautari, Thomas Hohaia

The Working Party met on 25 May 2022.  The topics for discussion included:

·        Emissions Reducation Work Programme Update (Item 4.3)

·        Progress of Ngā Taumata o Te Moana Implementation Plan (item 4.4)

·        Tracking Progress on Naā Taumata o Te Moana (item 4.5)

·        Climate Change Governance Review (Item 4.6)

Following discussion, the Working Party had no actions required.

 

Water and Land Working Party (Chair: Cr Justin Blaikie)

TTMAC representatives: Janelle Beazley, Mira Norris, Alan Riwaka, Georgina Connelly, Waimarie Kingi

The next Water and Land Working Party meeting is scheduled for 2 August 2022.

 

Planning and Regulatory Working Party (Chair: Cr Joce Yeoman)

TTMAC representatives: Juliane Chetham, Mira Norris, Rowan Tautari, William Sullivan

The next Planing and Regulatory Working Party meeting is scheduled for 2 August 2022.

 

 

Nil

 

9 June 2022

 

TITLE:	Chief Executive’s Report to Council
From:	Malcolm Nicolson, Tumuaki - Chief Executive Officer
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Malcolm Nicolson, Tumuaki - Chief Executive Officer, on 1 June 2022

 

That the report ‘Chief Executive’s Report to Council’ by Malcolm Nicolson, Tumuaki - Chief Executive Officer and dated 30 May 2022, be received.

 

Tutukaka Annual Structure Surveys

Surveys of all structures and the seafloor were completed in Tutukaka by contractor divers.  This survey has been completed annually since 2015 where fifteen Mediterranean fanworm (Sabella spallanzanii) were discovered on vessels and the seafloor after a heavily infested vessel was found in the harbour.  Although our hull surveillance does detect fanworm occasionally on newly arrived vessels, there has been no new recruitment on structures since 2017 and this species is now considered to be eliminated in the harbour.  This successful eradication highlights the importance of early detection and a rapid response, while also illustrating the success of council’s vector control programme.

Marine Vessel Portal

Marine biosecurity staff continue to collaborate with regional Top of the North partners and central government (Auckland Council, Waikato Regional Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, Ministry for Primary Industries, and the Department of Conservation) to develop and populate a marine vessel portal.  The portal will facilitate data collection by users, stakeholders and partner councils, including marinas, haul out facilities, and eventually individual vessel owners empowering them to manage their biofouling and hull cleaning records more easily.

The Marine Vessel Portal is a centralised vessel database that will be crucial to the implementation of the Clean Hull Plan by mapping and recording vessels moving between regional boundaries and allowing members of the public and marinas to access certain information about their vessel or vessels entering their facilities.  There are an estimated 20,000 vessels on moorings and marina berths in the Top of the North area (equating to approximately 90% of all New Zealand’s vessels).  Since the start of this financial year, the Top of the North collaboration has captured vessel information for over 9,000 of these vessels.  In the absence of vessel registration this represents a very valuable tool for the marine biosecurity team as well as other departments in Council.

A screenshot of the Marine Vessel Portal.

2022 Whakamānawa ā Taiao Environmental Awards

Entries to the fourth annual Whakamānawa ā Taiao Environmental Awards closed on 20 April and judging of applications is now underway. A total of 52 entries were received across the 9 categories, including to the new Youth environmental leader category introduced this year. This new category has been included to celebrate and recognise the many young people who are making a positive difference to the environment now and for the benefit of future generations.

 Also new in 2022 is the Kiwi Coast Outstanding group or project award, recognising high achieving Northland groups and projects who have proven their commitment to restoring the health of their local native forests and wildlife, including kiwi. This special award has been introduced to broaden the reach of the awards and to support NRC partners to celebrate and recognise mahi specific to their core focus. There are 10 applications being considered for this award.

The winners of the fourth annual Whakamānawa ā Taiao - Environmental Awards be revealed at an awards celebration in Dargaville on Thursday 26 May.

This year 22 finalists have been announced. The full list of finalists can be found on the awards.nrc.govt.nz website.

 

Current Legal Proceedings

Department	Description	Status
Consent decision appeal	Two separate consent applications for replacement and new consents relating to a proposed expansion of, Doug’s Opua Boat Yard in Walls Bay, Ōpua	No further update.  Awaiting direction from the Environment Court.
Consent decision appeal	Irrigation of avocado orchards and horticulture crops	Court Hearing to commence Monday 9 May 2022.

 

Enterprise System Update

Fraud Declaration

I am not aware of any fraud nor am I investigating any incidence or suspected incidence of fraud at this time.

Consents in Process

During April 2022, a total of 203 Decisions were issued.  These decisions comprised:

Ÿ Moorings	1
Ÿ Coastal Permits	26
Ÿ Air Discharge Permits	2
Ÿ Land Discharge Permits	4
Ÿ Land Use Consents	140
Ÿ Water Permits	25
Ÿ Bore Consents	5

The processing timeframes for the April 2022 consents ranged from:

Ÿ 188 to 1 calendar days, with the median time being 43 days;

Ÿ 79 to 1 working days, with the median time being 27 days.

Thirty-eight applications were received in April 2022.

Of the 176 applications in progress at the end of April 2022:

Ÿ 29 were received more than 12 months ago;
Reasons for being more than 12 months old:
-    Awaiting additional information (including CIAs)	12
-    Consultation with affected parties/stakeholders	4
-    On-hold pending new rules becoming operative	6
-    Other	7
Ÿ 16 were received between 6 and 12 months ago (most awaiting further information from the applicant);
Ÿ 131 less than 6 months.

Appointment of Hearing Commissioners

No commissioners were appointed in April 2022.

Consents Decisions and Progress on Notified Applications in Process, Objections and Appeals

The current level of notified application processing activities at the end of April 2022 is (by number):

Ÿ Applications Publicly/Limited Notified During Previous Month	0
Ÿ Progress on Applications Previously Notified	4
Ÿ Hearings and Decisions	0
Ÿ Appeals/Objections	2

 

COMPLIANCE MONITORING

The results of compliance monitoring for the period 1 – 30 April 2022 (and year-to-date figures) are summarised in the following table and discussed below.

Classification	Total	Full compliance	Low risk non-compliance	Moderate non-compliance	Significant non-compliance	Not exercised during period
Air Discharge	14	11	0	0	0	3
Bore Consent	15	15	0	0	0	0
Coastal Air Discharge	4	4	0	0	0	0
Coastal Discharge	12	9	1	1	0	1
Coastal Permit	196	134	30	25	6	1
FDE – Discharge permit	4	0	0	2	0	2
FDE – Permitted activity	1	0	0	1	0	0
Land Discharge	94	59	7	0	1	27
Land Use Consent	136	51	4	0	0	81
Water Discharge	69	35	9	2	2	21
Water Permit	76	32	3	0	0	41
Water Take	144	83	16	16	0	29
Total	765	433	70	47	9	206
Percentage		56.6%	9.2%	6.1%	1.2%	26.9%
Year to date	5500	3921	662	367	67	483
Percentage		71.3%	12.0%	6.7%	1.2%	8.8%

Coastal

All Hokianga and Whangaroa Harbour-based coastal permit field inspections have been completed.

Compliance monitoring inspections have been completed for all marine farms, with compliance letters being prepared for consent holders.  Follow up of non-compliance and enforcement action has commenced.

Several incidents and requests were received regarding asbestos containing materials in the coastal marine area, use of unconsented grids and discharges from vessel dry sanding and hull cleaning.

Water, Waste, Air and Land Use (WWALU) Compliance Monitoring

Ÿ Contaminated Land Management

Six incidents involving the discharge of hazardous substances and 13 enquiries regarding contaminated land were received and responded to.  380kg of hazardous waste was disposed of at the amnesty day, and two sites were added to the Selected Land-Use Register.

Ÿ Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants

WWTP/Consent Status	Issues (May 2022)	Enforcement Action/Response
Far North District
Ahipara   Expires 2033	Ongoing non-compliance with bacteriological consent limits	Under AN    FNDC investigating land disposal options; UV system to be installed in 2022/2023 to reduce bacteriological concentrations
Hihi   Expires 2022	No recent issues; replacement consent application yet to be received	None currently
Kāeo   Expires 2022	No recent issues; replacement consent application yet to be received	None currently
Kaikohe   Expires 30 November 2021	Intermittent non-compliances with ADW flow, ammonia & bacteriological consent limits.   System overdue for de-sludging	None currently   Issues will be addressed in replacement consent
Kaitaia   Expires 30 November 2021	No recent issues; FNDC discussing with iwi/hapū potential consent conditions	Under AN (reticulation overflows)   Issues will be addressed in replacement consent
Kawakawa   Expires 2036	No recent issues	None currently
Kerikeri   Expires 2036	No obvious issues from new plant (commissioned in December 2020)	Under AN
Kohukohu   Expired 2016 (replacement consent application on hold)	Occasional issues with bacteriological conditions of consent; CIA still awaited before public notification occurs	None currently
Opononi & Ōmāpere   Expired 2019	Non-compliances with bacteriological consent limits; desludging overdue; still intended to jointly process with Kohukohu replacement consent application	Under AN   Issues will be addressed in replacement consent; desludging to be undertaken
Paihia   Expires 2034	Plant upgraded 2019; alkalinity issues preventing optimal ammonia treatment	None currently    Alkalinity improvement project still in progress
Rangiputa   Expires 2032	No recent issues	None currently
Rāwene   Expires 2023	System overdue for de-sludging	Infringement notices issued in February 2022 in relation to a discharge from the reticulation
Russell   Expires 2024	Occasional non-compliances with E. coli consent limit post UV	Under AN   Infringement notices issued January 2022
Taipā   Expires 2029	No recent issues	None currently
Whatuwhiwhi   Expires 2025	Elevated TSS levels (consent limit may be unnecessarily restrictive)	FNDC to seek consent variation to address TSS levels – however this is not a priority
Whangarei District
Hikurangi   Expires 2025	Intermittent issues with plant performance	None currently   Plant performance being reviewed to identify improvements
Ngunguru   Expires 2035	No recent issues	None currently
Ōākura   Expires 2025	Occasional spikes in E. coli	None currently
Portland   Expires 2024	No recent issues	None currently
Ruakākā   Expires 2046	No recent issues	None currently
Tutukaka   Expires 2024	No recent issues	None currently
Waiōtira   Expires 2030	No recent issues	None currently
Waipū    Expires 2030	No recent issues	None currently
Whāngārei City   Expires 2022	Odour issues; replacement consent application received and will be publicly notified shortly	Abatement notice issued requiring actions to be implemented to mitigate the odour emanating from the treatment plant
Kaipara District
Dargaville   Expires 2022	Non-compliances with WQ discharge volume consent limits, replacement consent application received	Under AN
Glinks Gully   Expires 2024	No recent issues	None currently
Kaiwaka   Expires 2022	No recent issues; replacement consent application yet to be received	None currently
Mangawhai   Expires 2042	Odour complaints and occasional exceedances of TDS consent limit	Under AN
Maungaturoto   Expires 2032	Intermittent non-compliances, generally due to high rainfall	Under AN
Te Kopuru   Expires 2044	Intermittent minor non-compliances	Second aerator installed 2020

Environmental Incidents

There were no environmental incidents reported in April which resulted in a significant environmental impact.

ENFORCEMENT

Abatement Notices, Infringement Notices and Formal Warnings

The following is a summary of the abatement and infringement notices issued:

Action Type	Number
Abatement Notice	4
Infringement Notice	1

 

 

Other Enforcement

·   Open burning on industrial/trade property – Whangārei 

Charges were laid in the Whangārei District Court on 27 November 2020 against an individual for open burning on industrial/trade premises; the burnt items also included prohibited items. There are two charges against the individual who pleaded not guilty on 30 April 2021. The Court has allocated new hearing dates to 25 – 27 May 2022. Witnesses have confirmed their availability. 

·    Farm dairy effluent – Parapara 

Charges were laid in the Kaitaia District Court on 6 May 2021 against a farm owner for offences which occurred in August 2020. There are four charges against the farm owner. Following reports that were received confirming that the farm owner was not able to enter plea and provide instructions, the judge has made the following two decisions: 

1.  The farm owner is unfit to stand trial. 

2.  Based on the NRC’s summary of facts, the farm owner caused acts that formed the basis of all four offences. Those offences are very serious. The psychologist will provide a final report by 16 May 2022.  

The Court adjourned the case to 2 June 2022 with the farm owner to attend.   

·    Vessel occupying CMA & removal of asbestos from CMA – Town Basin, Whangārei

An enforcement order was applied for on 23 November 2021 against an individual for occupying the coastal marine with a boat without consent, and for reimbursement of costs associated with work to remove and dispose of cladding material containing asbestos that had been deposited within the coastal marine area. Following a joint memorandum filed in February 2022, the individual has arranged a place to legally moor the boat. Environment Court also issued enforcement orders against the individual requiring compliance with permitted activity rule C.1.2.1. of Proposed Regional Plan for Northland.
A proposal has been made to the individual for settlement of judicial review proceedings and costs.

·    Earthworks & vegetation clearance within a wetland – Teal Bay 

Charges were laid in the Whangarei District Court on 7 December 2021 against four parties for offences that occurred in December 2020. During a court appearance via Teams in March 2022, the defendants’ lawyers have requested more time to consider disclosure, provide advice, get instructions and discuss with NRC. Court has adjourned the case to 2 June 2022 with pleas having to be entered on that day. 

 

land management

Sustainable Hill Country and Regional Priorities

Milestones	Status
Farm Environment Plans (FEPs)	To date, 53 (39%) of 136 soil conservation plans have been completed in 2021-2022. Eight are in progress. We will not meet our soil conservation plan KPI’s for the SHaRP programme and are engaging with MPI around the reasons for this and seeking agreement on a way forward.

 

 

 

 

 

Poplar and Willow nursery

Objective

Status

Harvest

Currently processing orders with harvest starting later this month. For the first time the nursery is supplying 1 year old material as 1m wands in addition to traditional 3m poles that take three years to produce. This is in response to variable survival rates of poles in recent years and a likely loss of productive land at the nursery due to the rail corridor. We expect wands to be more resilient to drought compared to poles and we can produce significantly more 1 year wand material compared to poles that should help compensate for the loss of nursery area. Furthermore, wands will be cheaper to produce so can be planted at higher stocking rates to control erosion sooner.

 

Environment fund progress

The Environment fund grants for 2021/22 are nearing completion.  Across the region (excluding the Kaipara catchment) there are 50 projects, totaling just under $500,000, that are still to be finished and reviewed before the end of the financial year. Land Management Advisors are busy in the field doing sign-off visits.

Whangārei urban awa project

The project is continuing at a slower pace than the first year.  Year 2 Q3 reporting has been submitted to MfE on schedule. Key points:

·   2.9 kms of fencing completed across 5 properties (total of 5.5kms completed so far this year towards the target of 5.8kms).

·   Most fencing projects now very small, so not particularly efficient.

·   Million Meters funding project was closed at $13,302. This funding will go towards planting projects.

·   Landowner engagement/interest has diminished relative to Y1.  We are well on track to meet our fencing requirements for the year.  However, demand for planting is still light.

·   On track against the Y2 fencing budget but a carryover of planting budget to Year 3 is expected. In line with the reduced interest in the project shown over the past months, we are also working with MFE to extend the scope of the project slightly.

·   We expect a deed variation to be approved soon to extend the timeframe for the project from June 2023 to January 2024.  This will provide a full planting season next winter, as well as time for release spraying for the new plants.

·   We’ve also requested that the project be extended to include the Otaika catchment. This will allow us to more efficiently reach our fencing and planting KPIs, by working with larger land holdings in the new catchment.

 

biodiversity

FIF Dune Lakes Project

Objective	Status
Aquatic weed and pest fish control	A report on the vegetation damage at Lake Tutaki was sent to Iwi partners, EPA, MFE and NRC compliance.  Vegetation plots were established at Lake Tutaki to monitor the effect of aquathol on the wetland vegetation.  Further application of aquathol to control hornwort has been postponed till spring 2022 and summer 2023 as lakes have poor water visibility, meaning post-application LakeSPI monitoring has not been possible.  The EPA will be undertaking an investigation, including against consents issues by NRC, into the unintended vegetation damage and whether formal compliance action is warranted.
Sediment and nutrient mitigation	A planning assessment confirmed resource consent is required for the constructed wetlands at Black Lake, Kai Iwi Lakes.  A contract for this work and engineering plans and project management is out for tender and closes first week of May.
Partnerships	Ngā Roto Tapokapoka Tūhono Wānanga is being hosted by Te Roroa and the FIF programme and will take place on 16-18 May at Kai Iwi Lakes.

 

CoastCare

A hui was held with NRC Biodiversity and Natural Resources staff and Patuhareke Te Taiao Environment Unit to debrief on the pilot Bream Bay dune monitoring programme run over the summer and to discuss longer term goals and visions.  In this pilot, which also involved collaboration with Northtec, various methods were used to monitor dune health, with a focus on the animals (fauna) that live in the dunes.  This was aligned with vegetation monitoring to get a fuller understanding of dune health, and the relationships between flora and fauna in the dunes.  Patuharakeke are keen to continue the monitoring and intend to use the information about the dune fauna to support their advocacy work around vehicle use and human behaviour in our precious dune systems.  As well as continuing monitoring at Bream Bay, we plan to use learnings from this study to incorporate fauna surveys into our dune monitoring programme at other Northland sites to get a fuller understanding of dune health and how our restoration work can enhance the ecology of these environments.

An endangered native katipō spider with egg sacs found in a shelter on Ruakākā dunes

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wetlands

The Envirolink project for the design of a Northland wetland SOE monitoring programme has been progressed with a workshop with NRC, Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research (MWLR), NIWA and DOC specialists held late April to compile a draft list of wetlands to monitor.  Further mapping and analysis are to be carried out and a final report from MWLR is due at the end of June.

The wetland condition index monitoring programme has continued this month with a further three site visits carried out and remaining sites, out of more than 30 wetlands monitored, planned for May.

 

Natural resources

 

Coastal/Water Quality Operations

·   A new quarterly Litter Intelligence monitoring site at Pah Road in Onerahi, (a Significant Ecological Area) was surveyed in early February 2022.  Plastic accounted for the most common item found.  An article summarising our collaboration with various organisations is in the NZ Coastal Society March 2022 Newsletter. https://www.coastalsociety.org.nz/assets/Uploads/files/CN-77-2022-3.pdf

·   Shellfish surveys have concluded for 2022.  Surveys were conducted at Houhora Heads, Taipā, Kelly’s Bay and Hokianga (Koutu and Pakanae) with the help of whanau, hapū and local schools.

·   Work has progressed for the implementation of water quality modelling for our popular recreational bathing swimming locations, through Auckland Council’s Safeswim platform, safeswim.org.nz.  Following the successful trial of seven sites over the past summer, key contracts have been signed for delivery of all sites next summer.  Discussions are continuing on a service level agreement with Auckland Council for ongoing ‘access’ to Safeswim.

 

Natural Resources Science

 Air quality and carbon emission

·    Natural Resource Science air quality is in the process of implementing the outcome of the environmental monitoring network review and searching for new air monitoring sites in the Kaitaia and Whangārei airsheds.

 

Coastal

·    The final audit of the stormwater litter project has been completed.  In total 20,450 items were captured by the 51 littatraps over the twelve-month study period.  The worst sites were a transport and logistics site in Whangārei, which captured a total of 2,416 items, and a city center car park which captured 2,172 items.  In contrast, a residential street in Dargaville captured just 24 items over the twelve-month period.  The next stage of the project is to analyse and understand the large differences in the quantity of litter and plastic captured at different sites and to estimate the total quantity of plastic entering our coastal marine area each year.

 

Hydrology

 Rainfall

 

·    April rainfall was above average in Eastern and Central areas of Northland, and below average in the West. ·    The Eastern Hills (North-East of Whangārei) received the most rain with the Hatea at Glenbervie Forest HQ recording 285mm for the month, which is 252% of expected. ·    Western areas were much drier with the Hokianga at Opononi recording 38.5mm for 62% of expected, and Pouto Point recording 33.5mm for 61% of expected.

Rivers

River flows for the month followed the general pattern of rainfall with primarily normal to above normal flows in Northland’s Eastern and Central catchments, ranging down to low, to very low, flows in some Western catchments.

Groundwater

Groundwater levels continue to re-charge and all aquifers are in the normal to above normal range for April 2022.

Climate Outlook

Regional predictions for Northland in NIWA’s climate outlook for May to July 2022 can be summarised as follows:

·   Temperatures are very likely to be above average (70% chance).

·   Rainfall totals are equally likely to be near normal (40% chance) or above normal (35% chance).

·   Soil moisture levels and river flows are about equally likely to be near normal (40% chance) or below normal (40% chance).

 

POLICY AND PLANNING

Freshwater Plan Change

The Primary Sector Liaison Group were given an update on the role of the Land Management Team and NRC’s Freshwater Plan Change communication plan.  Currently setting up confidentiality agreements so that the water quality scenario modelling and costing can be released to the group.

The Tangata Whenua Water Advisory Group completed its Stage 1 Report and will present this to TTMAC in May for endorsement before presenting it to council.  Work is now progressing on their Stage 2 work which includes their recommendations for the plan change and advice to council on how council can best engage with mana whenua.  This advice is anticipated in July.

Proposed Regional Plan Appeals

·   Topic 1 (coastal activities) council staff circulated a suite of 22 rules, six policies, one objective, six definitions and maps to the appellants and Section 274 parties with a view of filing consent documents with the Environment Court by the end of May 2022.  The provisions relate to the management of coastal structures and how vessels use Northlands coastal marine area. 

·   Topic 1 (coastal activities) council staff continue to work towards agreement on how and when rules refer to mapped significant ecological and significant bird areas.

·   Topic 14 (Marine protected areas/fishing controls).  The results of a tikanga led process, including hui and wānanga in March and another planned in April are due to be reported 6 May.  The court decision it still awaited, in the absence of any all-party agreements.

·   Topic 15 (Mangroves) The court hearing that opened two years ago finally closed 5 May after legal submissions.  The court has indicated that an interim decision is likely to direct text refinements, before the final decision is made.  All parties agree it will then be the role of council to deal with the interplay between these rules and natural wetland regulations in the National Environmental Standards for Freshwater.  

·   We reported progress on appeals to the Court on 29 April.  We have requested a further reporting date of 30 June on topics 1 (Coastal activities), 6 (Damming and diverting water and land drainage), 10 (Infrastructure, energy and natural hazards) and 1A (Vehicles on beaches).  If appeals remain unresolved after 30 June, council staff will confer with parties and request that these matters be set down for a hearing.  

 

INCURSION RESPONSE

Suspected wallaby sighting

A suspected sighting of a wallaby was recently reported just North of Dargaville.  A field investigation was conducted, and no further evidence was found.  It is thought the member of the public who reported it could have instead seen a large hare which are common in the area.  Further enquiries are continuing as an incursion of wallabies into Northland would place the regions forests at serious risk.

WILD ANIMAL CONTROL

Feral deer

·     Russell goat cull:  Contractors carried more goat control work at Russell using indicator dogs and preferred habit to target areas ending up with a tally of 17 goats, 15 pigs, and one sika deer.  The sika DNA has been sent to see if it matches the early DNA samples. 

·     Kaimahi training:   A kaimahi training wānanga being organized for young hunters in May.  This is a three day course will be held at the Rāwhiti marae.

·     Fallow deer release:  A release of 20 fallow deer in the Tangihua Ranges was reported.  The reported release site has been identified and the investigation is continuing with a high priority.

·     Deer farm escape:  A deer farm awaiting full Department of Conservation approval has reported sign of a deer on the outside of the wire.  The farmer has been proactive and is working with council staff to trap this animal or destroy it. 

Feral pigs

·     Feral pig report:  A large number of feral pigs were reported being seen in public areas around the Kohumaru area and staff are assisting landowners with requests for pig control.

A large number of feral pigs have been reported in the Kohumaru area.

FRESHWATER

·     Lake Taharoa drone surveillance:  A contractor completed drone surveillance work at Lake Taharoa and did not detect any koi carp.  The drone method has a lot of potential for detecting larger koi carp in the lake with the right weather conditions and some fine tuning and calibration of the drone and operator observations.

·     Koi carp river surveillance work (outside the containment zone):  Department of Conservation joined Biosecurity staff to set gill, trammel and fyke nets, alongside eDNA samplers in the Mangatete (Kaitāia) and Parapara Rivers (Taipā) looking for koi carp.  No koi or other pest species were captured in any of the nets, but lab results of eDNA samples still pending.

PARTNERSHIPS

Supply chain issues

With global supply chain disruptions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic and high seasonal demand, there have been some significant price increases from our suppliers of traps and toxins, that support much of the work delivered by our communities in collaboration with the Biosecurity Partnerships team.  The team are working through the implications of these changes of the delivery of our work programmes as further increases are expected.

Northland Regional Council – Kiwi Coast partnership

·     New projects:  With two new projects linking into Kiwi Coast over the last month (Bream Bay College Rat Patrol and Kauaepepe Landcare) there are now 202 entities linked into Kiwi Coast, managing approximately 225,640 ha. ·     2021 pest control results: The collation of the 2021 results continues.  Kiwi Coast are working with Trap.NZ to pioneer a new method to bulk download the data required into spreadsheet format from projects that use this trapping management software.  If successful, this will bring a vast increase in efficiency for this annual exercise. ·     Annual kiwi call count survey:  Preparations are underway to support the Department of Conservation led 2022 Annual Northland Kiwi Call Count Survey in late May.  Kiwi Coast is updating its purpose-built App, developing online training resources and contributing financially to the Departments publishing of the 2021 report.

Bream Bay College Rat Patrol.

·     Predator Free Whangārei support:  Kiwi Coast has continued to assist Predator Free Whangārei with boosting the 60,000 ha predator suppression zone between Te Whara/Bream Head, Whananaki, and Pukenui.  A small but significant milestone achievement has been the trapping of the first stoat in a Predator Free Whangārei funded trap, in the new network of mustelid traps installed by Kiwi Coast trapper, with Parihaka Community Landcare (full story here: https://kiwicoast.org.nz/first-stoat-caught-in-boosted-60000ha-whangarei-mustelid-control-network/).

Kiwi Link High Value Area

·     Weed control:  Kiwi Link’s coordinated Weed Action Program is now in full swing.  Monthly educational newsletters are now being sent out, and two Working Bees have been held, one hosted by Ngunguru Ford Landcare, and one by Pātaua North Landcare.  While these volunteer events will take a break over the wetter late autumn and winter months, the education campaign will continue.

·     Pest control materials:  Almost all projects involved in Kiwi Link have received further possum, rat, wasp, and plant pest control products in April in response to landowner requests for additional resources to help control pests on local properties.  Training and advice was given with each product supplied.

Whangārei Heads High Value Area

·     Weed control:  The skip bin provided to the community for moth plant pods last month has been filled and disposed of appropriately.  With up to 1000 seeds per pod the skip bin represents a huge number of potential plants removed from the Whangārei Heads area.

Whangārei Heads residents have collected thousands of moth plant pods in April.

Piroa Brynderwyn High Value Area

·     Freshwater field day:  Piroa Brynderwyns Landcare Group has partnered with Fonterra, Patuharakeke, Whitebait Connection, New Zealand Landcare Trust and Waipū Water Watch to deliver a fresh water field day.  The aim of the field day was to help local farmers and lifestyle block owners better understand the health of these catchments for native species.     Landcare Research taking eDNA samples  from streams in the Waipū area.

 

·     Royal New Zealand Air Force volunteer support:  Efforts to improve the Piroa/Brynderwyn High Value Area have received help from an unexpected quarter, the Royal New Zealand Air Force.   A team of ~ 25 Air Force volunteers joined other volunteers in Mangawhai for a week to cut a new section of walking trail (which may be incorporated into the Te Araroa Trail).  Biosecurity staff worked with the volunteers to install a bait station network in the adjoining Department of Conservation Reserve.  The Air Force’s help enabled the team to complete the project within just five working days and meet major milestones in conservation and recreational plans in the area that would otherwise take many months to complete.  This work will assist in securing safe corridors for kiwi to safely disperse and other rare and unique species present in the Piroa-Brynderwyn hills such as Hochstetter frogs and long tailed bats.

Biosecurity staff joined Air Force volunteers in bait station installation.

Tutukaka High Value Area

·     Predator control:  Cat and mustelid catches have now exceeded 200, whilst possum catches have generally decreased.

·     Advocacy:  A Kiwi Aversion Training event was held at Tawapou with around 30 dogs and their owners in attendance.  The event was very successful, with many of those dogs returning for refresher training exhibiting full aversion to kiwi. ·     Weed control:  The Specialist Weed Action Team have helped two significant landowners during the month with plant pest work plans; both of which have used this information to seek external funding.  Two planned weed action events were cancelled due to rain and wind. There are no further events planned until spring 2022.  The top 12 priority weeds (the “Dirty Dozen”) are being reclassified and new educational material (including our recommended control methods.

Good sense overcomes good scent as this Labrador chooses to back off when it encounters a kiwi.

Western Northland

An online meeting was held on 3 May with Te Roroa and groups that have Community Pest Control Areas in the wider Waipoua area (eg. Kaitiaki Kiwi, Native Forest Restoration Trust, Waipoua Forest Trust, Wekaweka Landcare Group, Pūpūrangi Nature Sanctuary) as well as other key stakeholders that are also doing pest control work (eg. Department of Conservation and Forestry) or aspire for increased pest control (eg. The Waimamaku community).  Discussion covered how best to set up council funding now that there are a lot of linkages and existing collaboration between projects in this area and potential for this to grow further.  There was a consensus that a community led High Value Area was something the collective wished to pursue further and a face-to-face meeting to brainstorm the concept further is being planned.   

PREDATOR FREE

Predator Free Whangārei

Predator Free Whangārei have reached a milestone by activating devices in Working Block 1 and surrounding areas (Te Whara/Bream head, and adjacent private land at Ocean Beach).  10 possums were caught in traps over this trial period and potentially more via toxin delivery.  Surveillance cameras are showing possum activity and it is expected there are a good number in the area.

Predator Free Pēwhairangi Whānui (Bay of Islands)

The Pēwhairangi Whānui (Bay of islands) projects have also continued to progress well with draft eradication plans completed for all three peninsula and are now being critiqued by landcare groups. 

MARINE BIOSECURITY

Hull surveillance

No hulls were surveyed this month as part of the annual hull surveillance programme because of heavy rainfall creating poor visibility and contractors succumbing to COVID-19.  WorkSafe New Zealand has recommended occupational divers that have had COVID-19 do not dive for at least one month after they test positive which has added further delays to the progression of this programme.

PEST PLANTS

Community weed action

Biosecurity staff assisted Weed Action Piroa Brynderwyns with dune control work.  Species removed included pampas in the reeds, and lupins on the dunes.  This is an important ecological area for fairy terns and other shore birds.

Weed Action Piroa Brynderwyns, (left) removal of pampas seedlings growing among the native grasses, (right) the troops walk out.

Exclusion plants – climbing spindle-berry

A potential climbing spindle berry (Celastrus orbiculatus) infestation has been observed near an historic site of this weed in Onerahi.  Autumn is the time to find this exclusion species as the leaves turn yellow and are very visible against the green of the native bush.

Eradication plants

With the easing of COVID-19 restrictions, field inspections for eradication plants have resumed: ·     Firethorn:  Three Pyracantha potential sightings were followed up, one of which was confirmed as Pyracantha angustifolia.  Survey of surrounding bushland found no further spread. ·     Bat-wing passionflower:  Inspection of Department of Conservation reserve at Whangaroa by contractors are underway with around half the reserve completed so far.  A lot of adult bat-wing plants (more than were expected) have been removed. ·     Mickey mouse plant:  An infestation has been found in Tutukaka remote from other known sites.

A stunning blaze of colour – berries of the Firethorn (Pyracantha augustifolia) infestation.

Progressive containment plants

·     Mile a minute:   The southern regime inspections are half completed with regrowth found at all seven of the 12 sites inspected to date.

·     Pultenaea:  One site (outside containment) has been inspected and found clear of regrowth.

·     Lantana:  Two sites have been found in Tutukaka.

·     Manchurian wild rice:  April saw the start of Manuchurain wild rice aquatic sites being treated in accordance with the new Environmental Protection Agency rules.

Sustained control plants

Staff continue to work through numerous requests for advice around control and enforcement of boundary rules for sustained control species including privet and woolly nightshade.  

MĀORI ENGAGEMENT

Regional Workshop – Economic Development

The focus of the Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party's (TTMAC) regional workshop held on 14 April was the TTMAC Strategic Intent Ngā Whainga for economic development:

·    Whai Rawa: Restore and boost tangata whenua self-reliance and self-determination. 

·    Whai Mana: Maximise economic opportunities for tangata whenua. 

·    Whai Oranga: Economic growth is compatible with the protection and enhancement of ecological, spiritual and cultural values of tangata whenua. 

The workshop opened with guest speaker, Willie Te Aho, Te Whānau ā Apanui Hapū Chair, who spoke on Te Whānau ā Apanui Vision, Aspirations and Strategic Issues and emphasised the importance of economic development initiatives ensuring the sustainability and wellbeing of the environment first and foremost. Willie outlined aspirations and options for power sharing that recognised the mana of the hapū.  He discussed the challenges experienced by hapū in their relationship with local and central government  and the importance of being able to assert tinorangatiratanga in the development of land, building of housing and working with partners to leverage of their asset base and investments.  As such Te Whānau Apanui and hapū have seen significant investment in housing and whānau, have been able to purchase/own their homes and build an economic base that has employed their own workforce, and secured central government funding to achieve this.   

Discussion followed raising important issues about asset base and the need for council to consider how hapū can build capability to manage their own resources, support kaitiaki and whānau that are currently living on their whenua, what economic data/research is available through councils to understand what this means for hapū in Te Taitokerau.

In attendance for the second item was Northland Inc Chair and director, Nicole Anderson and board member, Kris MacDonald who provided a verbal update on the progress of the development of a regional economic development strategy and a recognition that key stakeholders need to be represented in the steering group that is being formed to deliver on the vision and aspirations of Te Taitokerau, Northland: Te Ōhanga Rautaki Whānui o Te Tai Tokerau | Northland-inc - Northland, New Zealand (northlandnz.com).

Local Government Elections – Tū Mai Māori Mā

In council’s commitment to support Māori seats $20,000 was allocated in 2021/2022 for the provision of resource, support and information for iwi and hapū to engage in the local government election processes.  This directly aligns with the TTMAC strategic intent and whainga “Māori representation – Tangata Whenua are equitably represented in all council decisions and operations.”

Accordingly, a Māori media campaign has been designed with advice being provided by TTMAC tangata whenua representatives and staff.  External consultants have been engaged to provide a more nuanced approach with targeted messages for a kaupapa Māori approach including building collateral pertaining to standing for council, enrolment and voting in local government elections.  It aims to build a better understanding of the Māori and general roll so that iwi and hapū can determine make up of new constituencies, nomination processes etc.

 

The following actions are currently in progress:

·    Engagement and brief provided to Māori radio stations (Te Hiku, Ngātihine, Tautoko) to promote the local government elections and relevance for iwi and hapū in terms of Maori representation ability to influence decisions in local government.

·    Engagement of youth leaders/champions to present information at hui/marae, on radio, on social media and in te reo Māori. 

·    Provision of information for iwi and hapū hui on request to facilitate a kānohi ki te kānohi grass roots community approach on marae and in more isolated rural communities.

·    Regional local elections website updated regularly going live June with TTMAC initiatives.

·    Online webinar with TTMAC representatives facilitated by youth champions.

·    Kete of resources developed and shared end May with iwi, hapū and promoted via appropriate communications platforms.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Investment and Growth Reserve – Projects Report

Project	Update	Future developments/ reporting
REL	Respond to NZ Insolvency and Trustee Service regarding council’s position in relation to liquidation of REL at the request of IRD. Received formal repayment proposal from Maher Jammal.	Respond to proposal

Other Work Undertaken

Ÿ Joint Regional Economic Development Committee (JREDC) – The Joint Committee meeting took place on 29 April. Items included finalising the shareholder comment on Northland Inc’s draft SOI 2022-25 and director remuneration.

Ÿ Economic Information – Provided an update to Te Hiku Iwi Development Trust joint working party on the ‘Te Hiku Iwi’ cluster as part of Infometrics regional profile for Northland.

Ÿ Regional Projects Reserve – Revised draft criteria and procedures for the allocation of funding from this Reserve.

Ÿ CLUES scenarios and costings – Worked with the Policy Team on scenario costing, additional scenarios options and key messaging.

 

ONLINE CHANNELS

Most popular content on Facebook: Media release on the revamped section of Te Araroa trail opening in Kerikeri (posted 20 April 2022). Reaching 6,538 customers with engagement of 1,468.

*Engaged – number of people who ‘reacted’, commented or shared the post

Key Performance Indicators	Dec-21	Jan-22	Feb-22	Mar-22	Apl-22
WEB
# Visits to the NRC website	34,526	41,600	34,400	35,900	37,900
E-payments made	18	7	16	14	7
# subscription customers (cumulative)	NA*	1,263	1,385	1,378	1,368
SOCIAL MEDIA (cumulative)
# Twitter followers	1,564	1,567	1,566	1,564	1,570
# NRC Facebook fans	10,469	10,510	10,600	10,600	10,600
# NRC Overall Facebook Reach	244,777	157,700	207,200	189,900	62,700
# NRC Engaged Daily Users	4,821	2,755	4,807	8,442	3,838
# CDEM Facebook fans	26,120	26,117	26,200	26,300	26,300
# CDEM Overall Facebook Reach	NA*	214,100	171,100	103,300	111,100
# CDEM Engaged Daily Users	NA*	26,600	19,500	5,564	7,168
# Instagram followers	NA*	1,488	1,506	1,520	1,526

 

NOTES: *NA – Data not available due to Christmas break.

 

ENVIROSCHOOLS / EDUCATION

Enviroschools celebrations During April, councillors joined in Enviroschools celebrations with He Kakano Early learning Centre - Bronze– and with Tangiteroria School -Silver with Chair Penny Smart officiating. Enviroschools communities facilitated School holidays accounted for 2 weeks of April, but Enviroschools Facilitators safely held specific interactions with 41 school and early childhood communities.

 

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Communications

Communications issued in April included 5 media releases covering the following topics:  

·    Extension to deadline for environmental awards

·    Poplar and willow sales

·    Announcement of new CE

·    Opening of revamped stretch of Te Araroa Trail in Kerikeri

·    Opening of Kaipara Service Centre

 

LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL INFORMATION (LGOIMA) REQUESTS

Total LGOIMAs	Mar 2020 to Apr 2021	Mar 2021 to Apr 2022
	15	16
Number of LGOIMAs not responded to within 20 working days		0

 

 

 

CUSTOMER SERVICES

Telephone inbound call statistics and enquiries  

	Feb 2022	Mar 2022	April
Call volume via Customer Services	2003	2254	1847
Average wait time	5.2 secs	7.6 secs	8.4 secs

Telephone call volume over the last three years

	1 July 2018 –  30 June 2019	1 July 2019 –    30 June 2020	1 July 2020 –    30 June 2021
Call volume via Customer Services	20,812	30,566	31,130

Mailroom email processing performance  

	Feb	Mar	April
Mail processed	684	851	736

 

Six compliments and five complaints and have been received for the month of April

 

Compliments received	Total
Biosecurity   City Link Total Mobility	2 3 1
Total compliments recorded	6

 

Complaints received	Total
City Link Environmental Data Hub Hotline	3 1 1
Total complaints recorded	5

 

Four out of Five complaints have been resolved.

 

TRANSPORT 

REGIONAL TRANSPORT PLANNING 

 

Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits Rule 

The Transport Minister recently signed off the new Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2022 (the Rule). The Rule will come into force on 19 May 2022, replacing the previous Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2017.   

 

The Rule is part of a new regulatory framework designed to improve how road controlling authorities plan for, consult on, and implement speed management changes. It is one of the tools used to support Aotearoa New Zealand’s Road to Zero Road Safety Strategy by taking an integrated speed management planning approach that considers the appropriateness of safety infrastructure, safety cameras and the setting of safe and appropriate speed limits in a combination that most effectively and efficiently moves the transport network towards a Safe System.  

 The Rule:  

·          Takes a whole of network approach where decisions about safety infrastructure improvements, speed limit changes and safety camera placement are made together  

·          Requires road controlling authorities to follow a new speed management planning process to set new speed limits, shifting from a risk-based to a principles-based approach  

·          Specifies a process for preparing speed management plans as the primary means by which proposed speed limit changes are developed, shared, and certified  

·          Introduces a regional speed management planning approach on a three-year cycle that aligns with the three-year cycle of the National Land Transport Programme  

·          Transitions to lower speed limits around all schools (including kura) by 2027 (40% by 2024)  

·          Removes the requirement to set speed limits through bylaws  

·          Requires all speed limits (other than temporary speed limits) to be entered into a national register which will give legal effect to all speed limits (other than temporary speed limits)  

·          Acknowledges the status of Māori as our Treaty partners and specifies that Māori are involved in the development of speed management plans and consulted with on aspects of the plan that are important to them. 

 

Te Huringa Taraiwa: Te arotake I te pūnaha utu kaiwhakamahi rori | ‘Driving Change: Reviewing the Road User Charges System’ 

 

The Government states that the current Road User Charges (RUC) legislation is focussed on recovering the costs of damage to our road network, especially that caused by heavy vehicles, and ensuring that operators of vehicles that cause the damage pay the appropriate amount but does not recognise other costs imposed by vehicle use, such as pollution or congestion. 

 

Currently the RUC legislation provides for the setting of RUC rates to be in proportion to the costs that the vehicles generate. These costs have historically been limited only to the direct costs of damage caused by the vehicles’ use of the roads, along with the wider costs of building and maintaining the transport system. 

 

There is reported to be a growing interest in using the RUC system to also capture some of those other costs, or to offset the higher costs faced by some emerging technologies, ahead of their widespread adoption.  

The Government is progressing policies to support these outcomes by developing programmes that focus on road safety, vehicle emissions, regulatory development, and smart infrastructure investments. The RUC system could also potentially support these outcomes. 

 

The Regional Transport Committee made a submission to the proposed Te Huringa Taraiwa: Te Arotake I te Pūnaha utu Kaiwhakamahi Rori | ‘Driving Change: Reviewing the Road User Charges System’. 

 

The consultation period ended on 22 April 2022. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PASSENGER TRANSPORT ADMINISTRATION 

*Bus Link figures are reported one month in arrears, due to the required information being unavailable at the time of the agenda deadline. 

Bus Link stats for March 2022  (revenue ex GST)	Actual	Budget	Variance	Year/Date Actual	Year/Date Budgeted	Variance
CityLink Passengers	28,244	30,085	-1,841	202,833	238,751	-35,918
CityLink Revenue	$30,878	$38,810	$7,932	$257,269	$307,989	-$50,720
Mid North Link Passengers	168	120	48	1,271	1,368	-97
Mid North Link Revenue	$621	$600	$21	$4,737	$6,140	-$1,403
Hokianga Link Passengers	70	60	10	664	678	-14
Hokianga Link Revenue	$375	$417	-$42	$3,614	$4,716	-$1,102
Far North Link Passengers	269	446	-177	2,066	3,445	-1,379
Far North Link Revenue	$593	$1,129	-$536	$5,061	$8,716	-$3,655
Bream Bay Link Passengers	56	30	26	392	234	158
Bream Bay Link Revenue	$392	$108	$284	$2,580	$842	$1,738
Hikurangi Link Passengers	14	30	-16	177	222	-45
Hikurangi Link Revenue	$37	$78	-$41	$420	$610	-$190

 

National Bus Driver Shortage 

Ongoing conversations with other regional councils have shown that the bus driver shortage nationally is progressively getting worse with some councils being unable to cover all timetabled services. It is anticipated that this situation will continue to worsen over the coming months. 

 

The adverse impact on the contracted Link services in Northland is beginning to be felt. Staff remain in talks with operators on how best to manage the situation. 

The planned Whangarei urban scholar services have had to be put on hold as the operator is struggling to source drivers to cover these services. Staff will be meeting with the operator during April to address this issue going forward. 

 

Half Price Fares 

Unfortunately, there has been no noticeable increase in the number of people using the Link services during the month of April 2022.  

 

The CityLink Whangarei passenger figures for April 2022 were not available at the time of this report therefore no meaningful comparisons can be made for this service.  

 

In addition, it must be noted that the number of passengers carried in April will be lower due to school holidays and the number of public holidays observed. 

 

Rose Street Bus Terminus Upgrade 

The Rose Street upgrade is running two weeks behind schedule.  

 

Staff are struggling to find anyone to undertake the upgrade of the Rose Street Terminus office accommodation. 

 

The use of temporary stops in Vine Street has been successful to date, however since the commencement of the new school term, incidents of antisocial behavior has begun. There is an increasing number of bicycles being ridden in Vine Street and on the pavements in and around the temporary bus stops. 

 

Total Mobility (TM) 

*Total Mobility Scheme figures are reported one month in arrears, due to the required information being unavailable at the time of the agenda deadline. 

	Total Clients	Monthly Actual Expend	Monthly Budgeted Expend	Monthly Variance	Year/Date Actual Expend	Year/Date Budgeted Expend	Annual Variance
March 2022	1,264	$20,001	$25,000	-$4,999	$172,519	$225,000	-$52,481

 

Total Mobility Scheme – Far North  

NRC staff have commenced work with approved transport operators and other agencies on the implementation of the Total Mobility Scheme in Kerikeri on 1 July 2022.  

 

A budget of $75,000 for the 1-year trial has been confirmed, with the funding coming from Waka Kotahi and Far North District Council.  

 

The maximum fare allowable will be $15 per trip.  

 

ROAD SAFETY UPDATE 

Road Trauma Update 

Road Fatalities Statistics for the period 1 January 2021 – 3 May 2021  

Fatalities Jan – April 2021	Far North	Whangārei	Kaipara	Northland	National
Local roads	2	2	1	5	58
State highways	5	2	2	9	48
TOTAL	7	4	3	14	106

 

Road Fatalities Statistics for the period 1 January 2022 – 3 May 2022  

Fatalities Jan - April 2022	Far North	Whangārei	Kaipara	Northland	National
Local roads	3	2	0	5	75
State highways	2	2	2	6	58
TOTAL	5	4	2	11	133

 

 

Motorcycle Safety - Ride Forever (R4E) Rider Training Update 

·          R4E – 2020/2021 – 186 riders completed the three courses   

·          R4E – 2021/2022 – 151 riders have completed courses to date: 

o   Bronze Course – 70 

o   Silver Course – 40 

o   Gold Course – 41 

 

Northbound Driver Reviver/Fatigue Stop Easter 

A successful Driver Reviver/Fatigue Stop took place on Thursday 14 April 2022 on SH1 at Uretiti. This Stop was jointly carried out with the AMI Driver Reviver Team, Red Cross, Fit for Duty resources, supporters from Northland Road Safety Association, Ruakākā 60’s Up, Taimahi Trust, Northland Police, Northland Transportation Alliance, Northland Road Safety Trust, ACC, Waka Kotahi, Altura, and Fulton Hogan. 

 

There were approximately 300 visitors with 120 cars, trucks, caravans, camper vans etc, which stopped and enjoyed the hospitality and road safety resources.  

 

 

 

Waka Kotahi & NZ Police Road Safety Promotion/Media themes for April/May 2022 

Road safety promotional and media related themes for April/May 2022 continued to concentrate around the Road to Zero: 

 

·          Speed – Both Waka Kotahi & Northland Road Safety have had speed related radio advertisements playing across Northland radio networks. Waka Kotahi have also been running a lot of regular television advertisements as well. A new Northland safety video based on a poem written by a mid-north Fulton Hogan Road Worker maintenance crew member has been produced (link attached). This message around slowing down through road works has also been supported by radio advertisements and a Bus Back promotion with very favourable feedback. https://northlandroadsafety.co.nz/fulton-hogan-northland-road-worker-video/  

·          Safe Vehicles 

·          Alcohol/drugs  

·          Young drivers  

 

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 

Charges against NEMA in relation to the Whakaari White Island eruption were dismissed on 4 May 2022. WorkSafe alleged that NEMA’s functions under the CDEM Act and Plan gave rise to duties under the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA). They laid a charge against NEMA alleging that NEMA should have done more to influence the conduct of activities on Whakaari. 

 

NEMA’s position has been that HSWA duties do not extend to public safety functions such as civil defence emergency management and that, in any event, CDEM does not encompass regulating adventure tourism activities. The court in dismissing the charges said that the intent of the Health and Safety at Work Act (HSWA) was to regulate the workplace and workers and it was never intended to extend to the type of situations that NEMA found itself in. 

 

Work continues the Trifecta programme - NEMA's Regulatory Framework Review. Timeframes for the delivery of the bill have been extended, and a new timeline has yet to be released or confirmed. 

 

On 5 and 6 April 2022 Gary Knowles, Chief Executive Officer of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and two other support staff (Anthony Richards and Chloe Marshall) from the Agency visited Northland. They met with the new CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of Far North District Council, the Northland CDEM professionals and Victoria Harwood, the CEG (Coordinating Executive Group) chair. 

 

The purpose of the meetings was to meet with the new FNDC CEO and establish an understanding of his CDEM expectations and to discuss and understand local and regional arrangements and to provide an overview of NEMA work programmes to staff. 

 

The Northland Tsunami Siren Network was tested on Sunday 3 April 2022, the first of the twice-yearly testing regime. Most test results have been received but are yet to be finalised. There have been five reports of sirens where the lights did not flash. 

 

Work continues to progress on the Northland Tsunami Siren Network Upgrade. The project manager has identified 20 potentially suitable locations for the first 20 new sirens, to be installed in Year 1 of the programme, 14 of which will be within the Whangarei District. The next step is to gain permission from landowners (most sites are council owned land) and to engage with the individual communities.    

 

The Northland CDEM Team has been impacted by sick and bereavement leave, from COVID19, other health matters and two recent resignations. Over the past months the team has been at less than 50% of its usual work force capacity. As of 29 April 2022, an appointment to the vacant role of: Public Information Management Specialist had been made. Leaving a vacancy for a Recovery Management Specialist. Despite this a core group of people have continue to ensure that capacity exists for response and on call. 

 

Work is underway to strengthen the on-call roster with assistance for Whangarei District Council staff being more closely integrated into the operational response arrangements than has been the case in the past. 

 

Multiagency Coordination Centre the feasibility study and concept design for the Multi Agency Coordination Centre are being finalised.   Discussions have also commenced between the contributing stakeholders on the ownership model. 

 

MARITIME 

There were 12 maritime incidents reported in April. An infringement notice was issued after a collision between a yacht and an anchored powerboat in Whangārei Harbour.  

One vessel was wrecked in Tutukaka after a storm. The owners organised the clean-up of debris. Equipment from Rocket Lab trial of rocket recapture by helicopter was recovered from the sea near Mangawhai.  

 

The rest of the incidents were a mix of bylaw infringements and minor incidents. 

 

Replacement of Navigation sign panels in various locations at boat ramps in the North and maintenance work in Rangaunu Harbour was undertaken. 

 

One abandoned vessel in the Bay of Islands and two in Whangārei were removed and disposed of by maritime staff and contractors.  

 

Work on drafting the Navigational safety bylaw changes is ongoing including consultation with key parties.  

 

The Maritime team were impacted by COVID19 with two staff in Opua and one in Whangārei affected. 

 

RIVERS AND NATURAL HAZARDS 

RIVERS 

Awanui	Favourable Autumn weather conditions and 3 contracts currently in progress (1 completed).   Contract 21/05 - Northern Stopbanks. Approx. 70% complete. Satisfactory progress with stopbanks and benching earthworks with minimal issues. Reinstatement of first few sites now complete and prep for over-wintering of remaining sites in hand.  Contract 21/09 - Switzer Bench. Earthworks are now 90% complete and rock revetment at rear of Bell’s Produce well underway (25%) and will progress into winter (materials supply & river levels permitting).   Contract 21/10 - Rugby Club.  Earthworks 80% complete. Rock revetment is phased to continue into winter (materials & river levels permitting) and has the advantage that we have rock storage on hard stand, so less risk from wet weather.   Primary School bench now 100% complete and community incredibly happy with reinstatement of Showgrounds areas. FNDC cycle path ties in very nicely with NRC reinstatement.   Planting planned for several completed areas and local (Māori-owned) contractors being lined up for this work.
Otīria/Moerewa	Stage 1 work is progressing
Kerikeri	Waipapa Industrial Estate Flood Mitigation is approximate 55% completed.

 

 

View of Awanui River looking upstream at Kaitaia A&P Showgrounds 

 

 

 

 

NATURAL HAZARDS     

Work Streams	Status	Comments
Whangārei (CBD) River Catchment Flood Model	70% complete	No change from last month
Website Natural Hazards Portal	91% complete	No change from last month
Raupo Drainage Scheme – Coastal Flood Hazard Analysis & Mitigation Options	85% complete	No change from last month
Natural Hazards technical and planning support to District Councils on Plan Changes and Rules	Ongoing	No change from last month
Te Taitokerau Climate Adaptation Strategy (TTCAS): Professional Services Panel	Ongoing	NRC, in collaboration with and on behalf of Kaipara District Council, Whangarei District Council and Far North District Council will be going out for Request(s) for Proposal (RfPs), 6 May 2022, to establish a regional Panel of Professional Services to support the implementation of the TTCAS actions, e.g., district’s pilot projects and beyond. This will provide all four Councils with informed and preselected providers, being able to have shared services, cost, and time effective.   Subsequent contracts will be directly with the respective Council as per respective procurement procedures. Closing date of submissions is 23 May 2022; assessment completion and agreement with preferred respondents will be by 7 June 2022.   The assessment will be completed by representatives from all four councils.

 

CLIMATE CHANGE RESPONSE 

Work Streams	Status	Comments
NRC Climate Change Strategy “Ngā Taumata o te Moana” and Implementation Plan	Implementation Ongoing	Progress is ongoing. This Strategy touches every aspect of Council business. In undertaking a ‘stocktake’ of current actions, Staff are meeting with teams across Council to build relationships, identify current climate-related actions and areas where more could be done. Over the last month this includes discussions with the science team, land management team, CoastCare, biodiversity, corporate teams, maritime & transport teams, and communications team. This stocktake will form a baseline for work to set up a monitoring, evaluation, review, and reporting system to track our progress.    The next implementation plan update will be presented to the Climate Change Working Party meeting on 25 May 2022.    We are also forging ahead with engagement of Toitū to baseline our GHG emissions, certify our accounting and provide advice on where further reductions could occur.
Te Taitokerau Climate Adaptation Strategy (TTCAS)	Adopted by NRC 26 April    All councils now adopted	Joint Strategy now adopted by all four (4) Councils. Robust debate occurred during WDC (Whangarei District Council) and KDC meetings to adopt the Strategy. This is a significant milestone for the region and the country – this Strategy represents NZ’s first collaborative (multiple Councils and multiple tangata whenua reps) region-wide adaptation strategy.     See www.catt.org.nz    The release of the NZ SeaRise data on Monday 2 May generated significant media interest in the region and across the country. This provided us with a fantastic opportunity to communicate about climate adaptation mahi.    Consultation on a draft National Adaptation Plan (NAP) is also underway. Given the short timeframes, the Climate Change team will be looking to influence the direction of the NAP through direct involvement on expert working groups, LGNZ fora, and the Aotearoa Climate Adaptation Network (which Tom founded and convenes).
Te Taitokerau Climate Adaptation Strategy (TTCAS) - Programme Implementation	Implementation Ongoing	A foundational hui for KDC’s adaptation pilot project is being held at the hall in Ruawai on Friday 6 May 2022. This work is supported by Priority Actions 1, 2, 9, and 10 and will seek to identify ways council can support iwi/hapū led adaptation processes.    The CATT forum is being used to share lessons from this pilot and inform work ongoing in other councils, and to aid KDC where required. WDC have recently hired a Climate Adaptation Coordinator to dive their adaptation programme. FNDC have not been successful in filling their advertised position. NRC will shortly go to the market to again advertise a position to support adaptation across the region.    The initiation and development of a communications and engagement plan to support the Te Tai Tokerau Climate Adaptation Strategy has opened discussions about governance and identity of CATT. Interim branding work has been completed (see website above). However, a coherent governance structure with appropriate representation is missing. Staff will be working to propose and refine current arrangements over the next few months. This will be critical as we transition into the ‘doing’ part of the mahi. For example, clear arrangements (from community, government agencies, through staff, tangata whenua and Councils) will provide greater mandate to enact integrated policy changes (e.g., RPS (Regional Policy Statement) through to District Plans and building consents), identify funding and co-funding, delineate responsibilities etc.

 

NORTHLAND WIDE LIDAR SURVEY 

Work Streams	Status	Comments
Regional LiDAR Survey	In progress	Payment for final delivery initiated and dataset expected within 1st Quarter.

 

Kaipara Moana Remediation (KMR) continues to make good progress in scaling up the programme, and systematising key systems and processes to support this.

As at the end of April, the KMR programme had achieved the following year-to-date milestones (see infographic), which are tracking well against our annual targets in most cases.  Our headline metric – number of Sediment Reduction Plans (SRPs) contracted  – is now at 135 SRPs (31 March 2022, i.e. at the end of Quarter 3, Year 2), compared to 90 SRPs at the end of Quarter 2, Year 2, and 61 SRPs at the end of Year 1.  The SRP pipeline is also growing, with KMR now engaging with over 222 landowners (31 March 2022).  In part, the scaling up reflects our Foundation (winter) Planting campaign now in train to ensure we can get as many trees/plants in the ground as possible over the 2022 winter.   Pleasingly, KMR’s progress was acknowledged by participants in our resumed public Zui, with last week’s Zui attended by 69 external participants from across the primary sector, local government, iwi/Māori representatives, consultancy and contractor sectors, as well as landowners in the catchment.   

 

 

 

 

Nil