Agenda of Council Meeting - Tuesday, 23 May 2023

No.	Option	Advantages	Disadvantages
1	Provide $350k funding to support the implementation of the fishing regulations.	A viable option and the same approach used to fund the removal of windfall trees from streams post Cyclone Gabrielle.	The opportunity cost associated with the use of the $350k funding, although arguably this is better put to assisting implementation and the community than ending up as a potential year end surplus.
2	No funding is made available and minimal implementation based on existing staff capacity to deliver over and above current budgeted activities.	Retention of funding.	High reputational risks and risks of not meeting statutory obligations such as official information requests and compliance responsibilities. Council will be obliged to respond to public enquires and incidents.

No.

Option

Advantages

Disadvantages

Provide $350k funding to support the implementation of the fishing regulations.

A viable option and the same approach used to fund the removal of windfall trees from streams post Cyclone Gabrielle.

The opportunity cost associated with the use of the $350k funding, although arguably this is better put to assisting implementation and the community than ending up as a potential year end surplus.

No funding is made available and minimal implementation based on existing staff capacity to deliver over and above current budgeted activities.

Retention of funding.

High reputational risks and risks of not meeting statutory obligations such as official information requests and compliance responsibilities. Council will be obliged to respond to public enquires and incidents.

Council Meeting item: 8.2

23 May 2023

TITLE:	Chief Executive’s Report to Council
From:	Jonathan Gibbard, Tāhūhū Rangapū - Chief Executive Officer
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Jonathan Gibbard, Tāhūhū Rangapū - Chief Executive Officer, on 17 May 2023

Ngā mahi tūtohutia / Recommendation

That the report ‘Chief Executive’s Report to Council’ by Jonathan Gibbard, Tāhūhū Rangapū - Chief Executive Officer and dated 1 May 2023, be received.

8.2.1 Highlights

CoastCare

An event was held at Mātihetihe Marae, ‘Karanga Ki Uta, Karanga ki Tai - the call of the land, the call of the tide’. The event was organised by the CoastCare team and included staff from Biosecurity and Environmental Services as well as the Department of Conservation and Ministry for Primary Industries. The event included a noho marae, with the local kura and community attending on the Sunday. On the Monday 75 students from three local schools participated in a rotation of workshops including coastal wildlife and plants, water monitoring and pest plants.



Matihetihe Event (clockwise from left): Betsy Young demonstrating pingao propagation, cleaning litter from the beach, Pingao putiputi woven by Betsy; the whole crew in front of the Wharenui.

Bream Bay dune fauna monitoring was wrapped up for the season with the final shelter checks and a debrief held with Patuharakeke. Patuharakeke are keen to continue this work and provisional agreement was made to continue the annual checks next year before moving to once every two or three years. There was also a discussion of options for further pest control in the area as well as weed surveillance and control of target species.

CoastCare staff participated in an Oil Spill Exercise at Tutukaka in the oiled Wildlife Response role, working alongside local hapū.

FIF Dune Lakes Project

Objective

Status

Aquatic weed control

The post hornwort control vegetation surveys were carried out in Lakes Tutaki, Egg and Mt Camel North. No hornwort was detected in Lakes Tutaki and Egg. This is a very pleasing result but doesn’t mean we have eradicated hornwort from these two lakes. They will be surveyed again in early summer, and every year for five years. If more hornwort is found, and the project partners agree, we should treat them again.

Small fragments of hornwort were still found in Lake Mt Camel North during the post herbicide monitoring dive. This was disappointing as we have treated the lake three times with Aquathol and once with Reglone. A bathymetric survey of the lake is recommended to ensure we have accurate lake volume information which dictates the dosage. We may have underdosed based on the lake depth data we have.

Lake Taharoa

During the lakes ecological survey by NIWA divers in March, it was found that submerged vegetation in Lake Taharoa has dramatically declined. There was not enough vegetation to produce a Lake Submerged Plant Index (LakeSPI) result. The LakeSPI dropped from 87% A band in 2018 to 1.8% D band in 2023.

Nearby Lakes Kai Iwi and Waikare were still found to have ‘Excellent’ submerged plant scores.

Chart, line chart

Description automatically generated

Initial analysis from the science team of water quality and water level data has not shown any obvious links to the decline.

Next steps are to:

· Identify information gaps and analysis gaps – cost out, report and address if possible.

· Annual LakeSPI in conjunction with usual weed surveillance using local supplier.

· Investigation into recent actions/events in catchment e.g. pine logging, fertilizer use.

· Assess potential impacts of upcoming land-use change - 268ha new pine forest planned.

· Communication with Taharoa Domain Board, Te Roroa and stakeholders

8.2.2 CORPORATE SERVICES

Fraud Declaration

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

Regional Accessibility Strategy – Making Te Tai Tokerau accessible

A cross-council working group, comprising staff representatives from the three district councils and NRC, have been working to advance development of an accessibility plan, which may be a strategy or other initiative. This work was directed by the Chief Executive Forum. A summary of the history of this project can be found in the CEOs report to council in November 2022.

A campaign of community engagement was carried out from 27 October through to the end of February 2023, to gather more in-depth information on how to make Te Taitokerau more accessible for people with access needs.

The group designed engagement channels in consultation with the access-needs community. The campaign was promoted by all four councils across their website, social media, print media, via established groups and in their service centres.

The engagement sought to find out what the access-needs community would like to see in the strategy, in particular:

· How they would like their community to look in 10 years (vision)

· What values are important to them (core values or guiding principles)

· What they want prioritised (options based on feedback from the initial survey)

· What outcomes they would like this strategy to achieve

The feedback period has now closed, and a wide range of people took the opportunity to provide feedback as follows:

Completed feedback booklets	9	Social pinpoint comments	58
Attended workshops	39	Social pinpoint survey responses	40
Social media comments	406	Feedback by email	15

This feedback has been analysed and will be summarised to support the next stage of the project, being development of a strategic framework to guide a joint action plan and individual implenetation plans. The development of the framework will be phased and carried out by people with lived expeirence of accessiblity needs.

NRC approved funding in their 2021 Long Term Plan for implementation of a strategy, which is budgeted from 2023/24 onwards. The strategic framework will assist in determining the best use of these funds.

Enterprise Update

Property Update

· The Hannah / Cameron St redevelopment project, having had initial design stages approved by council, now has advanced understanding of the ‘in-ground’ challenges. Structural design savings from the initial feasibility are highly likely given the interim geotechnical advice. However, the driving of test piles is warranted and will occur in due course. The draft Development Agreement with council’s partner is well advanced, as is the draft Agreement to Lease with council’s preferred tenant.

· Waipapa Service Centre initial planning currently involves researching potential resource consent obligations that, given council’s own footprint, may limit any subtenant choices (e.g. retail/commercial/industrial/storage/etc). Given the site’s water and wastewater infrastructure limitations, an initial ‘broad-brush’ layout of the site, with council’s footprint, the tenant footprint and wastewater infrastructure considerations is being worked up.

· The NIWA Kingfish RAS facility remains unstocked with fish as NIWA work through final design matters regarding their fit out, though rents to council have commenced. The NIWA Chief Executive’s recent discussion with senior council managers have confirmed a genuine NIWA interest in investigating future venture opportunities with council.

· Electric car charging stations are being installed in the front council Chair and CEO carparks with conduit and infrastructure future proofing any further expansion.

8.2.3 regulatory services

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	The council is waiting on further directions or a decision on the appeals from the Court.
Consent decision appeal	Irrigation of avocado orchards and horticulture crops	Parties are in discussions to agree on a set of conditions. The outstanding issue is the wetland monitoring conditions, which are being discussed between the applicants’ and appellant’s experts. An update report back to the Court on progress with the conditions was provided on 3 May 2023 with a request for a further extension until 14 June 2023.

Consents in Process

During April 2023, a total of 38 Decisions were issued. These decisions comprised:

Moorings	2
Coastal Permits	9
Land Discharge Permits	15
Water Discharge Permits	1
Land Use Consents	9
Water Takes	1
Bore Consents	1

Twenty-three applications were received in April 2023.

Of the 120 applications in progress at the end of April 2023:

Ÿ 37 were received more than 12 months ago;
Reasons for being more than 12 months old:
- Awaiting additional information (including CIAs)	18
- Consultation with affected parties/stakeholders	7
- On-hold pending new rules becoming operative	3
- Other	9
Ÿ 23 were received between 6 and 12 months ago (most awaiting further information from the applicant);
Ÿ 60 less than 6 months.

Appointment of Hearing Commissioners

No commissioners were appointed in April 2023.

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 2023 is (by number):

Ÿ Progress on Applications Previously Notified	8
Ÿ Appeals/Objections	2

COMPLIANCE MONITORING

The results of compliance monitoring for the period 1 – 30 April 2023 (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	15	15	0	0	0	0
Bore Consent	5	5	0	0	0	0
Coastal Discharge	16	11	1	2	0	2
Coastal Permit	191	74	44	57	13	3
FDE - Discharge permit	23	0	0	0	0	23
Land Discharge	52	39	6	3	0	4
Land Use Consent	53	42	5	0	0	6
Water Discharge	40	23	10	6	1	0
Water Permit	42	23	10	6	1	0
Water Take	157	96	16	32	0	13
Total	594	346	83	100	14	51
Percentage		58.2%	14.0%	16.8%	2.4%	8.6%
Year to date	5102	3576	551	491	82	402
Percentage		70.1%	10.8%	9.6%	1.6%	7.9%

Coastal

All annual marine farm compliance reports have been completed and are being issued to consent holders.

Dredging operations at Dockland 5 Marine Limited in Port Whangārei have commenced.

There were ongoing coastal structure permit inspections in the Bay of Islands.

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

Ÿ Contaminated Land Management

Three incidents involving the discharge of hazardous substances and eight enquiries regarding contaminated land were received and responded to. No hazardous waste was disposed of at the amnesty days, and two sites were added to the Selected Land-Use Register.

· Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plants

WWTP/Consent Status	Compliance for last 12 months	Enforcement Action/Response
Ahipara Expires 2033		Under ANs (reissued in September 2022). Infringement notice issued in September 2022. FNDC investigating land disposal options and has advised it will install and test a UV disinfection unit before the end of April 2023.
Russell Expires 2024		Under AN. Infringement notice issued June 2022. Maintenance and upgrades scheduled.
Rāwene Expires 31/8/2023		None currently.
Tutukaka Expires 2024		None currently.
Whatuwhiwhi Expires 2025		None currently.
Dargaville Expires 2043		Under AN. Issues addressed in replacement consent.
Maungaturoto Expires 2032		Under AN
Kaitāia Expired 2021 (replacement consent on hold)		Under AN (for reticulation overflows). Issues will be addressed in replacement consent.
Kaikohe Expired 2021 (replacement consent application on hold)		None currently. Issues will be addressed in replacement consent.
Paihia Expires 2034		None currently. Alkalinity improvement project still in progress (to optimise ammonia treatment).
Hikurangi Expires 2025		Improvements to plant performance currently underway.
Kaiwaka Expired 31/10/2022 (replacement consent application received)		None currently. Issues will be addressed in replacement consent.
Ruakākā Expires 2046		None currently.
Te Kopuru Expires 2044		KDC investigating options for improvement.
Glinks Gully Expires 2024		None currently.
Kaeo Expired 31/10/2022 (replacement consent application received)		None currently.
Opononi & Omāpere Expired 2019 (hearing scheduled for mid-May 2023)		Under AN. Any issues will be addressed in replacement consent.
Rangiputa Expires 2032		None currently.
Hihi Expired 30/11/2022 (replacement consent application received)		None currently.
Kawakawa Expires 2036		None currently.
Whāngārei City Expired 30/4/2022 (replacement consent conditions being finalised)		Under AN for odour from plant. Issues will be addressed in replacement consent.
Kohukohu Expired 2016 (hearing scheduled for mid-May 2023)		None currently.
Portland Expires 2024		None currently.
Mangawhai Expires 2042		Under AN. Wastewater being dosed with odour control chemicals.
Kerikeri Expires 2036		None currently.
Ngunguru Expires 2035		None currently.
Oakura Expires 2025		None currently.
Waiōtira Expires 2030		None currently.
Waipū Expires 2030		None currently.

Environmental Incidents

No environmental incidents were closed in April that resulted in a significant environmental impact.

ENFORCEMENT

Abatement Notices, Infringement Notices and Formal Warnings

The following table gives the total numbers of abatement and infringement notices issued:

Action Type	Number
Abatement Notice	11
Infringement Notice	10

Other Enforcement

• Breach of enforcement orders - Kaitaia

On 28 June 2022, NRC commenced prosecution against an individual for the breach of enforcement orders. The enforcement orders included remedial work on a contaminated land which also required a resource consent. On 18 October 2022, the defendant pled guilty. On 6 December 2022, NRC granted a resource consent for the remedial work. On 18 April 2023, Court allowed further adjournment as the defendant is still in the process of completing the remedial work. We advised Court that the parties will provide an update no later than 9 June 2023 whether the sentencing can proceed on 27 June 2023. If it is ready to proceed, NRC is to file sentencing submission by 16 June 2023.

• 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 relating to earthworks and vegetation clearance in a natural wetland, and discharge of sediment into the coastal marine area. On 18 April 2023, three defendants pled ‘not guilty’ to all charges and elected trial by jury. Court adjourned their matter to 27 June 2023 and directed that memorandum from prosecutor be filed by 16 June 2023. The one other defendant did not enter a plea and requested a sentence indication hearing. Court adjourned its matter to 23 May 2023.

• Farm dairy effluent - Hikurangi

Charges were laid in Whangarei District Court against four defendants for the illegal discharge of farm wastewater that occurred in November 2021. A meeting between NRC and the defendants was held on 21 February 2023. On 18 April 2023, all defendants entered ‘not guilty’ pleas to all charges and elected trial by jury. Court adjourned prosecution to 27 June 2023 and directed that memorandum from prosecutor be filed by 16 June 2023.

• Discharge of contaminated water to stormwater - Whangārei

Charges were laid in Whangarei District Court against one defendant for offences relating to the discharge of contaminated water to stormwater network that occurred in September 2021. On 24 January 2023, the defendant pleaded guilty to one charge. NRC and the defendant are discussing issues in the summary of facts. An expert conference will be held to solve the points of difference. There is a possibility of disputed facts hearing depending on the outcome of expert conference. Court adjourned sentencing to 27 June 2023.

• Burning of tyres – Kaiwaka

Charges were laid in Whangarei District Court against an individual for the burning of tyres and burying the remains in January 2022. On 24 January 2023, the defendant pled guilty to all three charges. NRC filed a sentencing submission to the District Court on 30 March 2023. On 18 April 2023, parties appeared before Court for sentencing. There was some disagreement between the judge and NRC on the starting point of the discharge to air offence. Court then adjourned sentencing to 27 June 2023 before another judge.

• Unauthorised earthworks and discharges of sediment – Russell

On 1 November 2022, twelve charges were laid against an individual for offences relating to unauthorised earthworks, streamworks and discharges of sediment. The offences first became known on 2 December 2021. On 18 April 2023, the defendant entered ‘not guilty’ pleas to all charges. Court adjourned to case review hearing on 27 June 2023.

• Unauthorised reclamation and seawall – Kerikeri Inlet

Application for enforcement orders was filed at the Environment Court on 20 January 2023 against an individual who built a seawall significantly seaward of its consented position, resulting in unauthorised reclamation of land in the coastal marine area behind the wall.

The first judicial conference was held on 10 February 2023. NRC submitted an amended application for enforcement orders and a memorandum explaining amendments to orders sought on 17 March 2023. The respondent filed an affidavit in response to the NRC’s memorandum on 21 April 2023. The second judicial conference is scheduled for 3 May 2023.

8.2.4 ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

land management

Poplar and Willow nursery

Objective

Status

Research

Four research reports have been completed recently:

· Effect of Cyclone Gabrielle on poplar in Northland.

· Survival audits of poplar and willow planting in 2022 and 2023.

· Growing containerised poplar nursery stock.

· Kawa Poplar Timber – Properties, Utilisation and Market Opportunities (includes a paper published in NZ Journal of Forestry Research).

Land Team engagement with Young Farmer of the Year competition

Late in 2022 the Land Management Team was asked to run a module within the Northern Region Young Farmer of the Year competition based on new freshwater regulations, which we felt was a great way to engage with some of the younger generation of farmers.

The original event was postponed because of Cyclone Gabrielle and was finally held on Friday 29 April, with only 8 contestants. Two Land Team staff attended to support as well as providing results to the committee. Our module was potentially the hardest in the wider competition, but staff had some good discussions with competitors and other attendees. The team is keen to be involved again in future years.

A person standing in a tent

Description automatically generated with low confidence

Photo: the site ready for contestants

Whangārei urban awa project

The year 3, quarter 3 report has been submitted. Total fencing to date is 17km with 2.5km completed over this quarter. We are likely to go over the project target of 20km in quarter 4 (or year 4 depending on weather). Total plantings to date are 7800 plants. There are 6700 more approved or going through approval to be planted in the coming year. We will need another 500 plants on top of this to reach the target of 15000. This is achievable. Rain has been a delaying factor in the progress of completing jobs. Some of these jobs may end up pushing into year 4 of the project.

biodiversity

FIF Dune Lakes Project

Objective

Status

Kākahi survey

Submerged Environmental undertook as kākahi survey in Rotokawau and Waingata on the Poutō Peninsula. They found almost 99% of the mussels were adults, meaning there is very little juvenile recruitment of freshwater mussels. 25% of the mussel population in Lake Waingata were juveniles. Further research is required to find out why there is so little recruitment of kākahi in Rotokawau.

The lakes had been impacted by Cyclone Gabrielle. Large amounts of newly deposited fine sediment and organic debris were seen across the lakebed and in some areas, it had smothered mussel beds and lake plants. Some mussel beds are smothered by pine needles and are likely to die. Algal levels in the lakes were higher than they should be. Staff will work with landowners around the lakes to improve conditions in the lake.

A picture containing plant, algae, green algae, non-vascular land plant

Description automatically generated

Figure 1: this image of kākahi in Rotokawau shows mussels smothered by benthic algae and debris

Terrestrial

Baseline tracking tunnel and chew card indices have been completed for Tāika forest. Results indicate high densities of both possums (89%CCI) and rodents (rats: 69%, mice 29% TTI).

Wetlands

The Wetland Training Series has been postponed until Spring this year due to weather and other external factors. New dates to be available soon.

NATURAL RESOURCES

Natural Resources Science

Freshwater Ecology

A technical report on council’s freshwater fish monitoring programme for the 2021/2022 season has been finalised and published on the NRC website: Northland Freshwater Fish Report

The report includes results from monitoring at 20 sites and includes an assessment of the Fish Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) at each site. The report also makes recommendations for changes to the monitoring network. The key findings of the report include:

· The majority of Fish IBI scores were within the A Band (Excellent) for the region, with only one site in the D band (Poor).

· The majority of sites are at low elevations and close to the coast. This biases sites to having high species diversity and underrepresents climbing and threatened species.

· Some sites are not suitable (i.e. too deep, too wide etc.) for monitoring and need to be replaced.

Water Quality Field Operations

· The team has been working on setting up catchment investigations. The team has started sampling at Tupou Bay at the end of April 2023 and is currently liaising with the Piroa Conservation Trust and other stakeholders to begin additional sampling in the Bream Bay catchment in June.

POLICY AND PLANNING

Proposed Regional Plan Appeals

Staff continue to work to resolve the remaining appeals on the Proposed Regional Plan for Northland. Key points arising since the last report include:

Ÿ Topic 1B - Vehicles on beaches: Staff have begun targeted consultation with iwi and hapū where the appeal parties have proposed vehicle restrictions within their rohe. These discussions will continue through until the next Environment Court report date in May 2023.

Consent documents have been circulated to the parties setting out agreed wording for rules controlling vehicles using beaches. These will be filed with the Court in due course.

Ÿ Topic 1 – SEAs / SBAs: A joint memorandum in support of consent orders has been circulated to parties and a consent order is anticipated to follow shortly thereafter. This will resolve a significant number (15) of outstanding rules for activities in the Coastal Marine Area.

Ÿ Topic 14 – Marine protection: The Court’s final decision is likely in the next month or two, following parties reporting to court on 20 April 2023.

FRESHWATER PLAN CHANGE

The series of workshops with council and the three TTMAC representatives continue with the 5^th workshop to be held 17 May 2023. The material developed in these workshops will provide the basis for consultation with communities and tangata whenua on the plan change to implement the National Policy Statement for Freshwater later this year.

NATIONAL INITIATIVES

The government is consulting on proposals to strengthen government direction for consenting renewable electricity infrastructure. Changes are proposed for the National Policy Statement for Renewable Electricity Generation and the National Policy Statement for Electricity Transmission. The changes are intended to support reduction of carbon emissions by 2050 and targets for renewable energy (the government has set an aspirational target of 100% renewable electricity generation by 2030). The consultation documents are available here: https://www.mbie.govt.nz/have-your-say/renewable-electricity/ Submissions close 5pm 1 June 2023. Staff have yet to assess the proposals and the need for a council submission.

8.2.5 BIOSECURITY

PATHWAY MANAGEMENT AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Staff are trialling a hands-on Clean Check Dry (CCD) training program with hapū kaitiaki and mana moana ambassadors; the training will include information sharing sessions on freshwater pests (using our 3D pest fish models for visual display) what they do to our precious awa, and what we can do to protect our patch (cleaning of gear and ourselves and our animals). It will finish with an opportunity to clean kayaks, fyke (hīnaki) and/or other nets to demonstrate how easy the CCD process is. During these events they will also have the opportunity to bring whānau to share in the learnings on the day.

WILD ANIMAL CONTROL

The deer scat (deer droppings) DNA surveillance results from Russell Forest have been finalised.  From the samples they were able to identify at least 17 individual deer and their locations. There were several samples that were unable to be identified due to the degraded nature of the samples. This doesn’t mean there are only 17 deer in the forest but provides us with some information on the sex ratio and a minimum number of individuals. We can use this information, alongside the recommendations contained within the feasibility study, to design an eradication plan. 

The team presented the results of the survey and discussed what eradication of sika deer could look like in Russell Forest at a hui hosted by Waikare marae on the 12 April. The team was supported by DOC and expertise from Manaaki Whenua researcher Dave Latham (an expert in vertebrate pest management). A secondary meeting was held at Elliot’s Bay for those who were unable to attend the previous day.

During the hui a wānanga was held with the attendees to discuss eradication of sika deer in the forest, ensuring we align with other pest management programs, and identify what are the key priorities that we need to consider as we move forward. An overwhelming theme from the wānanga was communication and ensuring that everyone is kept in the loop as the project progresses.

Overall, everyone is keen to move forward with eradication and we now have in-principle agreement to form a working group with representatives from the hapū, landholders and technical experts to co-design the eradication plan. 

A person standing in front of a television

Description automatically generated with medium confidence

Dave Latham speaking at Waikare Marae on sika Deer

Feral Deer – Te Taitokerau Multi-Agency Eradication Programme

NRC has received the contract worth $260k for the first round of funding for this financial year. This is an important milestone for the project as it will facilitate the delivery of the first round of delimitation surveillance, the development of a communications framework and the formation of a working group for Russell Forest.

In anticipation of the funding being received, the team has identified and tendered out for the first round of TADS (Thermal Animal Detection Systems) surveillance in six locations across Northland (Kaitaia, Kai Iwi, Omapere, Hokianga, Donnelly’s Crossing), and the Northland side of the Northland/Auckland border, including Kaiwaka /Topuni.

Contractors will also be undertaking ground operations in these areas (using indicator dogs and camera traps) with landowner access negotiations underway in three locations already. The data collected from the surveys will provide valuable information to assist planning and budget development for the Wild Deer Eradication Program and guide future control work. 

Deer Response Activities

Since the original farm escape near Waitangi Forest where 11 animals were detected and destroyed, a network of camera traps has been deployed in key areas. To date no further deer have been detected but there are large mobs of feral pigs coming from the forestry blocks which have been causing damage to the farm fences. NRC will be aiding in some removal activities and will be liaising with the forestry owners to work on a pest management regime.

Waitangi Forest has now been given the status of an active incursion area and operational and surveillance activities will continue until we can be certain no further animals remain in the forest or surrounding farmland.

Feral Pigs

Staff are still trapping large numbers of pigs and continue to receive requests for NRC loan traps, including sites in Ngunguru, Omapere, Rāwhiti, Pipiwai and Waipū. The Omapere site with one small trap has caught 15 pigs; these have been very mixed breeds. The team is investigating potential reports of pig releases in the area. In addition the team has also provided technical support for Manganui Bluff Goat control.

FRESHWATER PESTS

Another busy month with multiple pest fishing operations occurring this month in partnership with DOC and Fish and Game. With Northlands large network of rivers, streams, and over 400 dune lakes, the fostering of strong working relationships with other key stakeholders is essential to be able to deliver an effective Pest Fish Programme.

Reports of Rudd in Lake Manuwai

Following reports of rudd in Lake Manuwai to Fish and Game, a surveillance netting operation was carried out with support from NRC and DOC. Rudd are not previously known from this lake and are considered a significant pest fish. Thankfully, no rudd were taken during this operation. However, we will look to use the camera surveillance system (on the floating feeder) to monitor for rudd in future operations.

Lake Manawai (Kerikeri) pestfish incursion response (DOC, Fish and Game and NRC) netting for a possible rudd release in the lake. Note the floating fish feeder with camera surveillance system mounted below the feeder for pestfish detection.

Koi carp surveillance

Koi are a progressive containment species and any reports outside of the known areas are treated seriously. In partnership with DOC, surveillance activities have been underway in the Awanui, Parapara and Karemuhako Rivers (Kaitaia). Following successive operations in the Karemuhako the team has confirmed goldfish populations but no Koi. It is likely a case of mistaken identity. This site will be moved to NOT DETECTED and closed. Parapara River (Taipa) koi carp surveillance also revealed no pestfish from gill and fyke netting.

Goldfish from Karemuhako river

Fyke net set in the Karemuhako River with a large 9kg longfin eel, and goldfish caught in a gill net

PARTNERSHIPS

Northland Regional Council – Kiwi Coast partnership

The collation of the Northland trap catch results has been completed for the tenth year in a row representing a phenomenal effort of around 2,250 pests being trapped every week. These pests are no longer breeding, feeding and predating on our native wildlife, and figures only account for animals trapped, so the real result is far higher when considering those removed via toxin.

Planning is underway for Kiwi Coast’s annual Northland Pest Control Workshop - which this year will be co-hosted by Patuharakeke and the Piroa Conservation Trust at the Celtic Barn in Waipū on May 28^th with support from NRC staff. Preparations are also in full swing across Northland for the annual Kiwi Call Count Survey beginning on 9 May. Kiwi Coast are working with agencies, groups and projects across the region to ensure everyone has the support, skills and any tech gear (Kiwi Listening Devices, access to the Kiwi Coast Listening App) needed.

High Value Area (HVA) and Community Pest Control Area (CPCA) Highlights  

Community-led pest control activities continued across the CPCAs and HVAs this month despite the rain and colder weather, which has seen the usual influx of rodents. Trap replacements continued following damage from Cyclone Gabrielle and in preparation for winter trapping.

In the Kiwi Link HVA trap catch data has been collated for another year showing a further 8,086 animal pests were trapped, taking the six-year tally since all the 12 projects started working together to 45,044. Monitoring shows increasing birdsong in the native forests across Kiwi Link, which demonstrates the positive outcomes being achieved.

In Tutukākā, data analysis has now confirmed the presence of long-tailed bats at four sites with a Ngunguru site picking up 25 bat passes over 7 nights; one Matapōuri site recording 4 bat passes over 10 nights and two other Matap``uri/ Tutukākā sites each with one confirmed bat pass. In addition, the autumn 2023 data for the targeted 5-minute bird counts (5MBC) have been added to the existing time series, with increases observed at all 6 sites and annual comparisons of the nominal counts among the sites indicating between 11% and 317% increases relative to 2022.

Pāteke flocking site counts were down on the previous year, as would be expected with the wet summer. However, DOC advice is that the overall numbers are holding up well throughout Northland. Tutukākā Land Care volunteers observed the Ngunguru settlement ponds and estimated there were between 40 and 50 birds resident at the end of April.

A picture containing grass, outdoor, plant, bird

Description automatically generated

Between 40 and 50 pāteke were observed at the Ngunguru settlement ponds in late April

In the mid-north HVA, following last month's pāteke release, a network of live capture cages and cat traps has been activated and night vision equipment was deployed using trail cameras to ensure the protection of these birds from cat predation.

In Western Northland, Waipoua Forest Trust CPCA has had a strong weed control focus this month, targeting Himalayan honeysuckle on the Okawawa stream and Pampas throughout the Millennium and Pukemiro reserve. There has also been a collaborative effort between Native Forest Restoration Trust CPCA, Pupurangi CPCA, Manulife forestry and Department of Conservation to target goats across land within and adjacent to the Marlborough Forest with 45 goats being removed over the last month.

Tiakina Whangārei – Urban Pest Control   

A busy month for Urban Conservation with several public engagement events, including a school visit to Whangarei Intermediate and continuing support of ‘Predator Free Kamo’.

PREDATOR FREE

Predator Free Whangārei

· A busy month for the Field Team who have been setting up to move into the Reotahi area. Mahi includes connecting with landowners and wider community, scouting, line cutting, and installation of devices. Communications planning for the upcoming mahi has also been a priority.

· Two days were spent supporting the Partnerships team delivering feratox for Bay Bush, Opua (http://www.baybushaction.org.nz/ photo below) and Maunga Taika (Mt Tiger), Whangarei

· Trapping wānanga was held at Pataua South in conjunction with local uri group Aki Tai Here, NRC Partnerships Team, and the wider Pataua South whanau and community. The main objective was to strengthen relationships with local uri group Aki Tai Here and Pataua mana whenua and share learnings with them. Traps were provided to attendees.

· Hosted a team from DOC PF2050 (PF2050 Director, PF2050 Knowledge & Learning Lead, Te Ao Māori Advisor, and Funding Advisor). Landowner and key stakeholder also attended.

· Fine weather in early April saw a record number of possums caught in the live capture traps that function as a part of the lean detection network. This suggests possums are moving from areas yet to be targeted, and into the eradication areas where knock-down has been carried out.

· Maildrop communication with approximately 30 landowners in the Possum Eradication Buffer Zone took place informing them of upcoming baseline monitoring work.

· Taitokerau and Pewhairangi Whanui website proposal written and in discussion with project partners.

· Team has started internal NRC ArcGIS training.

· One field team member attended the NZ Conservation Dog Certification Programme in Thames (below). In time, this could be a valuable addition to the delivery capacity of the PF team and has wider collaborative opportunities for other conservation groups in the Whangarei area.

Predator Free Pēwhairangi (Bay of Islands)

· Russell Peninsular Project is in full implementation of their Eradication Plan (EP) and has recently taken on two additional kaimahi.

· A contract for the delivery of the Predator Free Mataroa-Purerua has been delivered to project partners and is awaiting next steps.

· The Rakaumangamanga project eradication plan has undergone review by local mana whenua and is awaiting endorsement. Local mana whenua contractors have been involved with the project design.

· A GIS platform (ARC GIS) has been built for all three PF2050 projects and is now being tested by each project. This provides an excellent platform from which the projects can record and report data, and it assists with the day-to-day management of their trap infrastructure. This system also supports the collection of trap data and the storage of landowner agreements.

· Ongoing liaison with Reconnecting Northland Te Kete Hononga pilot exploring ways to provide administrative and organizational support for project groups.

· Promotional videography is be planned to help promote the Predator Free kaupapa and to build wider support.

Marine Biosecurity

Staff have been involved in planning what it would take to respond to an incursion of Caulerpa- the invasive seaweed which has established in Aotea, (Great Barrier) and Ahuahu (Great Mercury island). Further work to understand the resourcing needed to begin a northland wide survey and requests to Biosecurity New Zealand to fund a plan for proactive survey in northland are expected to continue.

https://www.mpi.govt.nz/biosecurity/exotic-pests-and-diseases-in-new-zealand/pests-and-diseases-under-response/caulerpa-exotic-seaweeds-found-at-great-barrier-and-great-mercury-islands/

Vessel hull survey is very close to completion which will result in over 2000 hulls being checked during the last year – data showing the level of biofouling and compliance with councils marine pest rules will be available in July.

8.2.6 Governance And Engagement

MĀORI ENGAGEMENT

This month we also acknowledge the work of our administrative professionals who do a huge job in the background supporting the Māori Relationships Team and council in the work we do with Te Taitokerau Māori and Council working party, Te Oneroa a Tōhe Beach Board and many other hapū and iwi leaders, representatives and kaitiaki. It is important that we honour and recognise all of their hard work and the significant contributions they make to the work of council. Ngā mihi nui kia koutou.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Investment and Growth Reserve – Projects Report

Project	Update	Future developments/ reporting
Grow Northland	Update provided to JREDC meeting on 20 April	Updates will be provided to JREDC meeting on 18 May before further council workshop discussion on 24 May.

Other Work Undertaken

Ÿ Joint Regional Economic Development Committee (JREDC) – Meeting of JREDC held on 10 March followed by an EDNZ training session on economic development held on 20 April. Worked on the process for appointment of directors to Northland Inc.

Ÿ Northland Inc – Shareholder comment sent to Northland Inc in time to meet statutory requirement.

Ÿ Te Tai Tokerau Water Trust – loan agreement to support construction of the Kaipara Water Scheme signed by all parties.

Ÿ Freshwater Management Plan – Continued working with the Policy and Planning Team to estimate the costings of various mitigation options and rules for improved water quality.

Ÿ Te Rerenga (regional economic development strategy) – meet with Northland Inc to discuss possible outcome/monitoring indicators

Ÿ Economic information – Infometrics completed population projections for Northland and each of the three districts to assist the four councils with the development of their Long term Plan 2024-2034. The projections are available online at: https://population.infometrics.co.nz/northland-region.

COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Building team capacity

This month we welcomed a new full-time Kaiawhina-Pārongo – Communications Advisor who will work across the Communication and Māori Relationship teams. The Kaiawhina Pārongo will provide communications support to key initiatives including Te Taitokerau Māori and Council working party and the implementation of Tāiki ē - council’s plan to deliver on our commitments under Te Tiriti and advance partnerships with tangata whenua. The role also provides support with te reo Māori translations for council communications and publications as well as building and strengthening relationships with Māori media outlets across Te Taitokerau.

A group of people posing for a photo

Description automatically generated

New Kaiawhina-Pārongo – Communications Advisor and whānau (each end) with Communications Manager (second from the right) and Pou Manawhakahaere – Group Manager Governance and Engagement (third from the right).

Annual Plan

Promotional activity continued through April to provide people with the opportunity to have their say on our Annual Plan (the feedback period until 21 April). The promotional activity included a combination of online and offline tools and channels to ensure a broad reach across Te Taitokerau.

Media liaison

In total, three Northland Regional Council media releases were created and distributed to media throughout Northland during April. Topics included:

· Oil spill exercise

· Lifejacket library

· Cyclone recovery measures

A number of media enquiries were also received and responded to. Combined, this activity helped generate 118 items mentioning Northland Regional Council as reported by media monitoring agency Fuseworks.

Top five sources of Northland coverage were:

1. Northern Advocate (20)

2. Bay Chronicle, Northern News, Whangārei leader (16)

3. NZ Herald (13)

4. Te Hiku (3)

5. Waatea News (8)

Content types were split as follows:

A picture containing application

Description automatically generated

Northland Business Excellence Awards

The 2023 Northland Business Excellence Awards kicked-off with two launch events on Thursday 27 April. The events were held in Whangārei and Ngāwhā, with staff and councillors in attendance. Council made changes to our award category this year, with a new name ‘Excellence in Sustainability and Climate Action Award’ and improved criteria. https://www.northlandbusinessawards.co.nz/sustainability-and-climate-action-award/ . Entries for the awards close on 28 July.

Digital engagement

The most popular content on Facebook: A safety message from the Habourmaster’s Office. The photo shows a near miss between an outbound barge being towed by two tugs, and a runabout in the Portland Channel, Whangārei harbour.

· Reach: 5,716

· Engagement: 899

E-newsletters were distributed during this period. Hill To Harbour is a targeted newsletter produced with our land management team and aimed at landowners including lifestyle block owners, dry stock farmers, rural professionals and iwi/hapū. The newsletter raises the profile of the mahi we do in this space, shares advice and updates and highlights success stories of how we can work together to benefit our environment.

Our Northland, Tō Tātou Taitokerau – ō ake pūrākau is our regular e-newsletter which goes to our general subscriber database. It tells stories from across council. The autumn edition included stories on pest control, freshwater, the annual plan and the biodiversity of dune lakes.

Social media

Among other activity, social media promotion included:

· Encouraging applications for the Tāngata Whenua Environmental Monitoring Fund and for Iwi/Hapū Environmental Management Planning Fund (IHEMP)

· Use of a social media influencer to promote safer boating messaging

· Seeking feedback on our Annual Plan

· Climate report and rainfall data

Digital metrics

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

Key Performance Indicators	Dec-22	Jan-23	Feb-23	Mar-23	Apr-23
WEB
# Visits to the NRC website	38,081	48,053	69,011	42,100	59,091
E-payments made	11	8	11	17	10
# subscription customers (cumulative)	*N/A	1,316	1,313	1,409	1,404
SOCIAL MEDIA (cumulative)
# Twitter followers	1,594	1,620	1,640	1,635	1,634
# NRC Facebook followers	11,244	11,366	11,508	11,555	11,588
# NRC Overall Facebook Reach	105,583	108,407	131,700	180,753	744,935
# NRC Engaged Daily Users	21,571	8,159	12,839	16,553	126,498
# CDEM Facebook fans	27,314	30,047	30,047	35,079	35,175
# CDEM Overall Facebook Reach	32,996	341,031	1,178,767	232,013	115,618
# CDEM Engaged Daily Users	991	61,224	254,655	24,789	8,670
# Instagram followers	1,613	1,613	1,643	1,657	1,658

*Not available due to the Christmas/New Year break

Facilitating Enviroschools communities

Despite the school holidays and in addition to the Taipa Te Moana event, during April Enviroschools Facilitators visited or held specific online interactions with 57 enviroschools communities.

Far North ‘Te Moana’ Enviroschools Encounter event

The final of three Te Moana Enviroschools events took place at Taipa on 28 April. The 121 participating primary and early-childhood tamariki, plus their accompanying kaiako (teachers) and whānau brought the total reach to over 400 people.

The event was held at Taipa Resort and on adjacent Ngāti Kahu whenua. In addition to the Te Moana event programme, mana whenua brought a display of artifacts unearthed during the Taipa bridge re-build which proved fascinating to young and old alike.

A picture containing clothing, person, group, grass

Description automatically generated "(We discovered that) many invasive species arrive in NZ by boat"

“Do you have life jackets? What's the weather? Do we have communication?"

A picture containing clothing, person, human face, child

Description automatically generated “You need to catch a big fish to take it home”

A group of children playing with water

Description automatically generated with low confidence

“The rubbish gets stuck in the seaweed”

LOCAL GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL INFORMATION (LGOIMA) REQUESTS

Total LGOIMAs	April 2022	April 2023
Total LGOIMAs	16	24
Number of LGOIMAs not responded to within 20 working days		0

CUSTOMER SERVICES

Telephone inbound call statistics and enquiries

	February	March	April
Call volume via Customer Services	1993	2019	1404
Average wait time	9.4 secs	8.8 secs	9.4secs
Calls answered in under 30 seconds	1882	1903	1326

Telephone call volume over the last three years

	2019-2020	2020-2021	2021-2022
Call volume via Customer Services	20812	30566	23669

Mailroom email processing performance

	February	March	April
Mail processed	743	772	667

Satisfaction monitoring

Feedback cards, compliments, and complaints

Compliments received	Total
No compliments were recorded for April	0
Total compliments recorded	0

Complaints received	Total
No complaints were recorded for April	0
Total complaints recorded	0

8.2.7 COMMUNITY RESILIENCE

TRANSPORT

Government Policy Statement on Land Transport

The Government Policy Statement on Land Transport (GPS) sets out how money from the National Land Transport Fund (NLTF) is allocated towards achieving the Government’s transport priorities.

While a revised draft GPS for the 2024/2027 funding period is expected to be released in May; early messaging indicates that resilience and emissions reduction will be the top priorities.

The Ministry of Transport will present the draft GPS to the Regional Transport Committee (RTC) at the on 13 June 2023.

Regional Land Transport Plan 2021/2027

On 4 April 2023, the RTC agreed that as the Regional Land Transport Plan’s 2021-2027 (RLTP) objectives and priorities align with the indicative draft GPS, a full rewrite was not required and approved that staff undertake a review of the RLTP.

Passenger Transport Administration

Please note the figures contained in the table below relate to fair box revenue and passengers carried.

BusLink stats for April 2023 (revenue ex GST)	Actual	Budget	Variance	Year/Date Actual	Year/Date Budgeted	Variance
CityLink Passengers	19,498	23,518	-4,020	278,865	265,237	13,628
CityLink Revenue	$27,601	$30,338	-$2,738	$367,327	$342,156	$25,045
Mid North Link Passengers	296	160	136	2,669	1,720	949
Mid North Link Revenue	$606	$709	-$104	$7,306	$7,626	-$258
Hokianga Link Passengers	31	48	-17	435	516	-81
Hokianga Link Revenue	$246	$334	-$88	$3,489	$3,589	-$100
Far North Link Passengers	372	336	36	3,696	4,374	-678
Far North Link Revenue	$866	$940	-$74	$9,019	$10,130	-$1,111
Bream Bay Link Passengers	79	24	55	575	266	309
Bream Bay Link Revenue	$271	$172	$99	$2,475	$1,915	$560
Hikurangi Link Passengers	11	24	-13	168	258	-90
Hikurangi Link Revenue	$29	$63	-$34	$393	$673	-$280

Bus Driver Shortages

National bus driver shortage remains a concern. The CityLink operator has implemented a national plan for driver recruitment the implications for Northland will be discussed at a meeting scheduled for May 2023.

Total Mobility Scheme (TM)

	Total Clients	Monthly Actual Expend	Monthly Budgeted Expend	Monthly Variance	Year / Date Actual Expend	Year / Date Budgeted Expend	Annual Variance
Whangārei
March 2023	1,366	$37,898	$25,000	-$12,898	$274,513	$225,000	-$49,513
Far North
March 2023	180	$2,245	$5,000	$2,755	$10,726	$45,000	$34,274

Total Mobility budget

Since the government’s announcement that Total Mobility trips will receive additional national subsidy, reducing the amount the client pays, there has been a rapid increase in the use of the scheme which has led to an annual variance. This has resulted in the NRC having to request increased local share funding from the Whangarei District Council WDC for the 2023/2024 budget.

Total Mobility Review – Ministry of Transport (MoT)

The MoT has commenced a review of the Total Mobility Scheme which will explore four key areas:

· The purpose of Total Mobility.

· How the Scheme can be made more accessible for disabled people.

· How aspects of the Scheme’s operation can be improved.

· Sustainable funding mechanisms for the Scheme.

Ridewise (RW) - Total Mobility Electronic Swipe Card System

UTA testing on the new and improved Ridewise system continues. Northland has been requested to continue representing the smaller councils on this project. The planned release of the new system is scheduled for May 2023.

Total Mobility Far North

The underspend in the Far North is due to a lack of providers for the scheme. NTA staff are currently working through the Health and Safety process with three possible transport operators. One is based in Kaitaia, another in Kerikeri and one in Paihia. This will allow for increased coverage and create the opportunity for more people who need this service to join the scheme.

Road Safety Update – Year to date figures 2023

Fatalities	Far North	Whangārei	Kaipara	Northland	National
Local roads	2	2	1	5	50
State highways	3	1	2	6	64
TOTAL	5	3	3	11	114

The 11 deaths on Northland’s roads are broken down as follows:

Drivers	Passengers	Motorcyclists	Cyclists	Pedestrians
7	3	0	0	1

The breakdown of ages making up the 11 fatalities reflect:

< 14 years	15 – 19 years	20 – 24 years	25 – 39 years	40 – 59 years	60+ years
0	0	1	1	3	6

For the four-year period 2019 to 2022, year to date the following regional fatal numbers are reflected:

2019	2020	2021	2022
10	12	14	10

Easter Holiday Break:

Due to poor weather the northbound SH1 Uretiti Easter Driver Reviver Stop planned for Thursday 6^th April 2023 was cancelled.

There were no fatal crashes in Northland but several injury crashes during the Easter long weekend period. There was one fatality nationally. The table below shows the previous four Easter periods for a national comparison.

Motorcycle Safety

Draft Regional Motorcycle Safety Strategy.

Work is still progressing jointly with WSP on a draft Regional Motorcycle Safety Strategy. WSP recently carried out a survey targeting motorcyclists to identify motorcycle routes and safety issues that affect them. This data is currently being analysed and will support the direction of the ‘Strategy’.

A recent desktop LitSearch study highlighted a very fragmented and limited approach to motorcycle safety especially when compared to walking and cycling both nationally and across Northland. Metropolitan and Regional issues are often different and current planning and interventions do not make allowance for this.

During the last 5 years there has been 19 motorcyclists killed on Northland roads and 95 deaths nationally.

Ride Forever (R4E) Rider Training Financial Year - Update

· 2019/2020 – 240 riders completed the Bronze/Silver/Gold courses.

· 2020/2021 – 186 riders completed the Bronze/Silver/Gold courses.

· 2021/2022 – 182 riders completed the Bronze/Silver/Gold courses.

· 2022/2023 Year to date – 180

· Bronze Course – 71

· Silver Course – 52

· Gold Course – 57

Waka Kotahi & NZ Police Road Safety Promotion/Media – April 2023

For the month under review, both Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency and the New Zealand Police have concentrated their promotional and media efforts toward speed and safe vehicles.

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Warnings and activations

On 24 April 2023 a 7.3 magnitude earthquake in the Kermadec Islands triggered a national tsunami advisory warning. No threat to New Zealand eventuated.

On 29 April Met service issued a Weather Warning for Northland, with between 100 to 140 mm rain in a 24-hour period. Rainfall amounts were recorded in some areas slightly above the forecast. No CDEM response was required, (although the impact of this rainfall event had consequences for the further warnings in the following week).

CYCLONE GABRIELLE RECOVERY

The Northland CDEM Group Manager has coordinated and overseen the development of a Northland Region Recovery plan. The Recovery Plan has included:

· work with more than 500 stakeholders in the lead-up: including content drawing from more than 300 direct contributors.

· diverse community voices are woven throughout the Plan.

· the plan includes joined-up collective actions by the rural sector.

· it also includes commitments from Lifelines utilities / critical infrastructure for not only Recovery mahi, but also future resilience. This was a direct response to a request from community consultation.

· The respective council's recovery actions have been incorporated into the plan.

Hard copies of the plan have been circulated and an electronic version on the NRC website is being arranged.

The CDEM Group team is continuing to hold de-briefing sessions with community groups, councils, and others on the Cyclone Gabrielle response. De-briefing actions are being collated and actioned where appropriate. As a result of Cyclone Gabrielle there has been a very high demand from community groups, marae, and others for assistance with community and other plans, as well as CIMS training and up skilling on CDEM capability.

Land Management Funding Support in Response to Cyclone Gabrielle

At its 28 March 2023 meeting, Council approved the use of unallocated Environment Fund to be used for the rebuild of riparian fences damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle. This equated to the allocation of approximately $300k for that purpose. Importantly, the resolution excluded the use of the recovery fund within the catchment administered by the Kaipara Moana Remediation fund.

The fund has been promoted via a media release to mainstream media, directly to rural industry professionals, on NRC’s website, in the land team’s e-newsletter and most recently via social media. There has been very little interest in the fund. At the date of writing, one application has been received. Funding for that application is yet to be allocated.

MARITIME

Area	Incidents	Accident	AtoN	Dragged/ adrift	Sunk	Offence	Mooring Incident
Bay of Islands (BOI)	7	1	1	1	1	1	2
Rangunu Harbour	1		1
Taipa/ Mangōnui Harbour	1				1
Whangārei	8		1		3	4
Totals	17	1	3	1	5	5	2

The storm at the end of April saw three vessels sink: one at Mangōnui and two in Whangārei. A large catamaran came off a mooring in Paihia and was damaged on the rocks but salvaged the following day.

The most serious incident of the month was a collision between a private vessel and commercial ferry between Russell and Paihia which resulted in a serious injury to the ferry skipper. The ferry sunk and was later salvaged by a dive team with the help of regional council vessels. The incident is being investigated by the Transport Accident Investigation Branch (TAIC) and MaritimeNZ. MaritimeNZ will decide what enforcement action if any, will be taken.

A large oil spill exercise was held at Tutukaka Harbour with personnel from Channel Infrastructure, Northport, Northtugz, NRC and representatives from local hapu involved. It was a successful day with both an emergency operations centre established and on-water exercise with vessels deploying booms and skimmers.

A debrief was held at the conclusion of this years ‘Nobody’s stronger than Tangaroa’ campaign. Once again it was very well received and the establishment of lifejacket hubs in remote communities is a great harm prevention initiative that has received very positive feedback and some good publicity.

The last cruise ship for this season visited the BOI in April on a perfect weather day with a further three cancelling due to adverse weather conditions.

RIVERS

Awanui Flood Scheme Upgrade (Kanoa Flood Resilience Project):

Year 3 of 3 year accelerated programme, progress to date:

· Lower Whangatane/SH10 – 33% complete. Beginning to secure site for winter. Working through options with WSP re use of Mangamuka remediation spoil for stopbank fill.

· Northern Benching and Stopbanks – 90% complete. Sites 16, 18, 19, 20 & 22 are complete and close to fully reinstated, despite multiple weather delays. Remaining site 26 is predominantly roading, so less weather sensitive.

· Matthew’s Park – 100% complete.

· Rongopai Rock Revetment – Additional work to protect unstable bend at Spillway 6. Approximately 75% complete.

· SH1 Waikuruki Bridge – Establishment complete and rock import and placement well underway. Work will proceed with caution as continued elevated rainfall will impact work within the channel.

· Floodwalls – Tendering in process and award expected by mid-May.

· Donald Rd Bridge – Procurement process commenced. This work can be undertaken during the winter period.

· Quarry Rd Bridge detailed design initiated.

· General Planting – Continued work with hapu to re-vegetate worked areas.

Matthew’s Park Spillway (complete) – looking East

Northern Stopbanks & Benching (completed Site 18) – looking West

Planting progress – Spillway 6 bank looking West

Planting progress – Te Hiku bank

OTIRIA MOEREWA FLOOD MITIGATION SPILLWAY AND BRIDGE (Kānoa Flood Resilience Project):

The Taumārere Flood Management Work Group held a committee meeting at Te Rito marae this month. Updates on project progression were given and drone shots shown to the community of the work completed to date. A copy of the presentation can be found on our YouTube channel:

Otiria Moerewa Flood Mitigation Spillway Update: 11 April 2023

Updates from the community included a presentation from a community member on the NRC water tank fund and the lessons learned and over all successes of the funding for their community. They will be working with other groups in the rohe to help with similar applications.

NRC team presented on the works happening upstream at Turntable Hill. This was initially part of the project completed in 2020, but there was not enough budget to complete the upstream portion of the works due to a blowout encountering bedrock in the downstream benching.

Waka Kotahi has funded this portion of upstream works that will target the gravel deposition that accumulates under Turntable Hill Bridge. NRC are managing the project and KCL are the contractors completing the mahi using a local operator. The vegetation has been cleared from site and large trees have been dropped. There are now a few weeks of earthworks scheduled to alter where the natural gravel deposition occurs.

Construction progress at the Otiria Spillway

Stage-3 earthworks are complete for now until the next earthworks season starts. The spillway and stop bank that are constructed have grass seed that has taken well, some grass at the base of the spillway may be killed due to the recent rain events and slow drainage of the spillway which is currently acting as a DEB for the construction site. There will be a small portion of earth removed by KCL around the bridge foundations before the beams are placed at the end of May.

Pokapu Road Bridge

All the piers have been poured and set, the abutments and wingwall construction is currently underway. As mentioned before, the bridge beams are arriving at site at the end of May to be placed over three days. There is some community excitement for this process as we will start to see the form of the bridge take place. Kānoa and comms team are aware of the potential media opportunity.

Establishment of KiwiRail logyard entrance off Pokapu Road

Western Approach compacted and to design level, road shoulder topsoiled ready to re-grasss

A picture containing outdoor, sky, ground, dirt

Description automatically generated

Looking from West bridge approach to East on a beautiful morning

A picture containing sky, outdoor, ground, playground

Description automatically generated

Pokapu Bridge Abutment D construction

A picture containing grass, mountain, outdoor, nature

Description automatically generated

Drone shot of the construction site looking from the end of the spillway North

River Tree Removal Project

Approx number of enquiries so far:

· 58 received and entered on the data base.

No of sites visited/contacted:

· 20 site visits have been conducted.

· 22 contacted by phone, who do not require site visits.

· 14 have been contacted and remain to be visited.

· Two enquiries did not provide enough information or details were incorrect therefore have not been contacted.

Sites identified as being Very high risk:

· Four rivers have been identified as very high risk. Kaihū, Awakino, Paparoa and Mangawhai.

· While there are a number of other high-risk sites on other rivers such as Awanui, Waipu, Kāeo, Waitangi, Kawakawa, Otiria, Waipapa and Ruakākā, initial work is being focussed on the high risk: four due to the risk future extreme weather events causing flooding and damage to towns, infrastructure and lives.

Work to Date:

· Awakino river

Work is well underway – contractors are in the 3^rd of 5 planned weeks of removing very large poplar trees from the river. Due to current rain warnings work has stopped until weather warnings have been lifted. Contractor: McLean Tree Services

· Kaihū River

Work is due to begin on the 5^th of May. The contractor is currently completing work on the Awanui river. Contractor: OS SafeTree

· Mangawhai River

Due to start week of the 15^th of May – weather dependant Contractor: McLean Tree Services

· Paparoa River

Contract details and landowner agreements are being finalised potential start date 15 May Contractor: Tree Works

Other river works outside of River Tree Removal project budget:

· Awanui River

Contractors have spent 8 weeks been removing large numbers of fallen Poplars, pines and willows from the river and riverbanks. Once finished contractor will be moving plant to Kaihū. Contractor: OS Safe Tree

· Kaeo River

Initial work of removing debris and blockages has been completed for the present, however if further funding becomes available other hazardous tree work will take place.

· Kawakawa River

Several large logs and debris that were reducing river flow have now been removed. As in the case of other rivers and key waterways throughout the region there is still a great deal of further work required to ensure hazardous trees growing on close to the river edge are removed to reduce risk of falling into the river and creating future dams and blockages.

CLIMATE ACTION and natural hazards

Staff visited Ngawha Innovation and Enterprise Park, visited Wellington to advocate for the continued establishment of the Aotearoa Climate Adaptation Network (ACAN) for local government practitioners, and explored opportunities to develop a climate change conference in conjunction with local community group Climate Action Tai Tokerau.

We have also appreciated the opportunity to be able to give more of a presence to climate action through some of the awards NRC sponsors. Raising the profile of Climate Action across different sectors of the community is important to help drive change across sectors and at the pace that is required.

Natural Hazards

There are a number of natural hazard modelling projects underway and nearing completion that will require updates to NRC’s online maps:

· Waimā / Punaketiri updated flood modelling is nearing completion with peer review and calibration still to come.

· Ruawai / Raupō flood modelling has been completed and staff are working through the process of updating the online maps in the NRC hazards portal and with Kaipara District Council in their updated district plan. The maps have been a critical element informing adaptive planning in the Ruawai community.

· Updated urban flood models for Whangarei CBD are also nearing completion final model report submitted but still waiting maps. This is co-funded with Whangarei District Council

Work on the Te Taitokerau Approach to Flood Risk is progressing well. The consultants are moving into the delivery stage of the project with key deliverables being:

- A first pass risk assessment to identify high risk catchments.

- An evaluation of the portfolio of approaches.

- Prioritisation of flood risk management methods for high-risk catchments.

Staff anticipate this being completed by late June for inclusion in the forthcoming long-term plan and infrastructure strategy.

8.2.8 KAIPARA MOANA REMEDIATION

Kaipara Moana Remediation

This month marks an important milestone in finalising KMR’s policy direction and investment settings, with decisions taken in the programme on both of the two foundational strategies - a Soil Conservation Operational Strategy and Kōrero Tuku Iho (Mātauranga Māori Strategy). We have also soft-launched in-house and field advisor use of Mātai Onekura, our Whenua Planning Tool, the first of KMR’s digital tools.

Soil Conservation Operational Strategy & Action Plan

Currently, KMR co-funds fencing and planting projects near waterways. However, to achieve our goal of halving sediment into the Kaipara Moana, we need to support a wider set of sediment-reduction activities across the landscape. On 1 May, the Joint Committee agreed a Soil Conservation Operational Strategy that will enable KMR to do that, which draws on expert advice and cultural inputs.

The Soil Conservation Operational Strategy includes a broad kete of co-fundable works, which includes:

· Extending the works co-funded by KMR from waterway-adjacent works (stock exclusion fencing, riparian and estuarine planting and wetland restoration) to also include works in erodible hillslopes: specifically, assisted native regeneration and native forest planting, protection of existing native forests, and exotic silvopasture;

· Calls for Expressions of Interest at set times during the year for potential co-funded projects involving alternative (non-pine) forestry species and/or regimes, or sediment management infrastructure;

· Engagement with the forestry sector and others working with landowners who want to (re)plant pine to raise awareness of the works that KMR can co-fund (e.g. native planting in riparian setbacks and establishing native forest in particularly vulnerable areas). Note that KMR will not co-fund establishment or replanting of pine plantations.

While we acknowledge the urgency of rolling out these wider co-investments to scale up the programme, KMR will need time to develop the specific operational policy settings of what we can co-fund (i.e. our investment rules), and we also need to train our Field Advisors who engage with landowners to ensure a smooth and effective roll-out. For example, we will need to pay special attention to some key design issues (e.g. ensuring any new tree species we use are not weedy; and ensuring appropriate set-back of trees from fences/waterways). The new KMR investments will therefore be designed, communicated and rolled out in a staged way (i.e. not all at once). We expect to start with co-funding of KMR project activities that are similar to what we co-fund now (for example, planting natives in the hill country).

Kōrero Tuku Iho

KMR supports communities to protect the physical environment by reducing sediment flows into the Kaipara Moana. However, we also aspire to support communities to maintain their cultural heritage and connection to their tūpuna whenua. Kōrero Tuku Iho is the cultural dimension of Kaipara Moana Remediation and one of its two foundational strategies alongside the Soil Conservation Strategy. A hapū-led programme, Kōrero Tuku Iho intends to bring the voices of tangata whenua to the forefront, by providing an avenue to express their priorities for restoration. On 1 May, the Joint Committee agreed the direction of Kōrero Tuku Iho, which draws on appropriate advice and inputs. Specifically, the Joint Committee agreed a ‘Kaitiakitanga in Kaipara’ approach to develop and use case studies across the Kaipara Moana catchment. These case studies will create a template for the practical application of Kōrero Tuku Iho, and will be kaitiaki-focused and driven. Kōrero Tuku Iho will support 6 case studies in total, the first 3 in the 2023/24 financial year, with a further 3 proposed in 2024/25. A Kōrero Tuku Iho Reference Rōpū terms of reference were agreed and this will guide implementation. It is intended that the outputs from Kōrero Tuku Iho will help shape how the KMR programme operates in the future.

Annual Work Plan

Each year, the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) agrees KMR’s Annual Work Plan, which must focus on delivering on the Deed of Funding with the Crown. On 1 May, the Joint Committee agreed a draft KMR Annual Work Plan for 2023/24 for submission to MfE, noting that it would evolve to reflect feedback from MfE, carry-over of funds from the current financial year, as well as fine-tuning of some costs (for example, relating to the Kōrero Tuku Iho project.

Attachments/Ngā tapirihanga

Nil

TITLE:	Confirmation of Minutes - 26 April 2023
From:	Meloney Tupou, Maori Governance and Engagement Support Admin
Authorised by:	Chris Taylor, Governance Specialist, on 09 May 2023

TITLE:	Receipt of Action Sheet
From:	Chris Taylor, Governance Specialist
Authorised by:	Chris Taylor, Governance Specialist, on 16 May 2023

Emergency Service provider	Funding purpose	Annual Allocation (in each of 3 years (GST exclusive)	Funding uptake as of 30 June 2022 FY (2021-2022)
Northland Emergency Services Trust	Operational costs for the air rescue and ambulance services	$535,000per year	$535,000.00
Surf Life Saving Northern Region	Professional guards at popular beaches outside volunteer paid hours	$224,000 per year	$224,000.00
St John Northern Region	Partially-fund replacement of Northland ambulances	$90,000 per year	$90,000.00
Coastguard Northern Region	Operating, support and training costs for Northland units	$84,000 per year	$84,000.00
Far North and Northland Land SAR	General operations	$30,000	$30,000.00
Far North radio and Sea Rescue	General operations	$9,000	$9,000.00

No.	Option	Advantages	Disadvantages
1	That council nominates a number of councillors to attend the LGNZ conference.	Councillors will have exposure to top class speakers, be able to participate in valuable discussions/interactive sessions as well as make the most of networking opportunities.	There is considerable cost for each councillor to participate.
2	Council elects not to have representation at the LGNZ conference.	Saving of costs for council.	Potentially a lost opportunity for councillors.

No.	Option	Advantages	Disadvantages
1	Adopt the updated Policy	Potentially encourages engagement with less formal language Public are informed of systems used for consultation	Nil
2	Do not adopt the updated Policy	Nil	Council policy is out of date with consultation aims Public are not informed of systems used for external consultation
3	Make further amendments to the updated policy	Unknown	Unknown

TITLE:	Financial Report to 30 April 2023
From:	Taka Skipwith, Financial Accountant
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Bruce Howse, Pou Taumatua – Group Manager Corporate Services, on 17 May 2023

TITLE:	Regional Rates Collection - update to 31 March 2023
From:	Simon Crabb, Finance Manager
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Bruce Howse, Pou Taumatua – Group Manager Corporate Services, on 17 May 2023

TITLE:	Emergency Services Fund FY 2021-2022 Report
From:	Louisa Gritt, Group Manager - Community Resilience
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Louisa Gritt, Group Manager - Community Resilience, on 31 March 2023

TITLE:	Approval to Borrow $4.4m to fund the Enterprise Project and Vessel Replacement Project
From:	Simon Crabb, Finance Manager
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Bruce Howse, Pou Taumatua – Group Manager Corporate Services, on 10 May 2023

TITLE:	2023 Local Government New Zealand Conference
From:	Chris Taylor, Governance Specialist
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on 17 May 2023

TITLE:	Feedback (Submission) Policy: consultation in accordance with the Local Government Act 2002
From:	Nicola Hartwell, Legal Advisor (Corporate Policy Specialist) and Kyla Carlier, Corporate Strategy Manager
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Bruce Howse, Pou Taumatua – Group Manager Corporate Services, on 17 May 2023

TITLE:	Fishing Controls
From:	Don McKenzie, Pou Tiaki Pūtaiao - GM Biosecurity
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Jonathan Gibbard, Tāhūhū Rangapū - Chief Executive Officer, on 18 May 2023

TITLE:	Te Taitokerau Māori and Council Working Party - appointments
From:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on 17 May 2023

TITLE:	Chair's Report to Council
From:	Tui Shortland, Chair
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on

Date	Addressed To	Subject
06.04.23	Six tertiary students within Taitokerau were selected for this scholarship and were recognised for how their study strongly aligns with Northland Regional Council’s environmental and regulatory functions	Tū i te ōra Scholarship (which offered $4,000 to contribute towards the costs associated with tertiary studies plus paid full-time work experience with council this summer).

TITLE:	Reporting on Long Term Plan 2021-2031 Performance Measures for Quarter Three of the 2022/23 Year
From:	Robyn Broadhurst, Corporate Planning Specialist
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Bruce Howse, Pou Taumatua – Group Manager Corporate Services, on 18 May 2023

1.1 Science
1.1.3 Information on the standards for ambient air quality is made available
KPI	Target	Result
Percentage of time that continuous monitoring of air sheds is achieved, with any exceedances of National Environmental Standards reported and made available to the community	100% compliance	100% – achieved

1.7 Compliance monitoring
1.7 Compliance monitoring of resource consents, and response to reported environmental incidents, is timely and effective
KPI	Target	Result
Percentage of environmental incidents reported to the Environmental Hotline resolved within 30 working days	80% or more resolved within 30 working days	88% – achieved

3.1 Governance
3.1 Council maintains effective, open and transparent democratic processes
KPI	Target	Result
Percentage of official information requests that are responded to within 20 working days	100% compliance	95% – not achieved Three requests (of 57) were not completed on time due to high workloads, staff leave, and training of new staff. All details on these are reported via the CE’s report to council.
Percentage of time that elected members attend council meetings	90% compliance	96% – achieved

TITLE:	Receipt of Committee Minutes
From:	Meloney Tupou, Maori Governance and Engagement Support Admin
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Chris Taylor, Governance Specialist, on 17 May 2023

TITLE:	Working Party Updates and Chairpersons' Briefings
From:	Sally Bowron, Strategy, Governance and Engagement Team Admin/PA
Authorised by Group Manager/s:	Auriole Ruka, Pou Manawhakahaere - GM Governance and Engagement, on date 17 May 2023

Item No.	Item Issue	Reasons/Grounds
10.1	Confirmation of Confidential Minutes - 26 April 2023	The public conduct of the proceedings would be likely to result in disclosure of information, as stated in the open section of the meeting -.
10.2	Human Resources Report - April 2023	The public conduct of the proceedings would be likely to result in disclosure of information, the withholding of which is necessary to protect the privacy of natural persons, including that of deceased natural persons s7(2)(a).
10.3	Appointment of Independent Risk Advisor	The public conduct of the proceedings would be likely to result in disclosure of information, the withholding of which is necessary to protect the privacy of natural persons, including that of deceased natural persons s7(2)(a).
10.4	CityLink Bus Driver Wages	The public conduct of the proceedings would be likely to result in disclosure of information, the exclusion of the public from the whole or the relevant part of the proceedings of the meeting is necessary to enable the council to deliberate in private on its decision or recommendation where a right of appeal lies to any court or tribunal against the final decision of the council in these proceedings s48(2)(a)(i).