waikato regional council · tipene wilson has been appointed to the committee to assist with māori...

WAIKATO REGIONAL COUNCIL Minutes of a Meeting of the Waikato Regional Council held in the Council Chambers, Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at 10.40 am on Thursday 30 April 2015 MEMBERS: Cr PA Southgate (Chairperson), Cr TS Mahuta (Deputy Chair),

Cr TH Bramley, Cr PR Buckley, Cr CW Graf, Cr J Hennebry, Cr ST Husband, Cr ST Kneebone, Cr AD Livingston, Cr LA Livingston, Cr TM Stark, Cr GWH Vercoe, Cr KA White.

STAFF: Chief Executive (V Payne), Director Integrated Catchment Management (C Crickett), Director Community & Services (N Williams), Director Science & Strategy (T May), Director Resource Use (C McLay), Chief Financial Officer (M Garrett), Council Secretary (M Ahipene).

APOLOGIES: Cr RM Simcock (for absence) Prior to the commencement of business, the Chair (Cr PA Southgate) took the opportunity to acknowledge Council staff. The Tui Mine project team had recently won the Brookfield’s Environmental Leadership and Sustainability at the SOLGM excellence awards. The award category was for innovative projects that provide a tangible and exceptional benefit to the environment, or showcase leading practice in managing environmental risks that impact on local authority activities. Council thanked and congratulated current and past staff that had been involved in the project, and contributed to its success.

Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 1)

Cr Mahuta moved/Cr White seconded.

WRC15/146 THAT with the exclusion of agenda item 4.3 “Waikato Plan Joint Committee minutes 13 April 2015” and taking item 8.4 “Appointment of Electoral Officer” at the beginning of the public excluded session, the agenda of the meeting of the Waikato Regional Council of 30 April 2015, be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (WRC15/146

Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2)

There were no disclosures of interest.

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 2

Confirmation of Minutes

Council – 26 March 2015 File: 03 04 02 (Agenda Item #3.1) Doc#3322063 Cr Mahuta moved/Cr White seconded.

WRC15/147 THAT the Minutes of the Council Meeting of 26 March 2015 be confirmed.

The motion was put and carried (WRC15/147)

Committees Reporting to Council

Nga Wai o Waipa Co-governance Forum – 5 March 2015 File: 03 04 43 (Agenda Item #4.1) Docs#3300016

Cr Southgate presented the following report to Council of the Nga Wai o Waipa Co-governance Forum dated 5 March 2015.


Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-governance Forum

Report of the meeting of the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-governance Forum held in the Waikato Regional Council, Council Chamber, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East, Thursday 5 March 2015 8.35am.

MEMBERS: Maniapoto Māori Trust Board 1. Trustee John Kaati 2. Trustee Ray Wi 3. Trustee Clarrie Tapara 4. Trustee Weo Maag

Waikato District Council Deputy Mayor Dynes Fulton

Waikato Regional Council Councillor Paula Southgate (Co-Chair)

Waipa District Council Mayor Jim Mylchreest

Waitomo District Council Mayor Brian Hanna

IN ATTENDANCE Councillor Timoti Bramley, Councillor Alan Livingston, Councillor Stuart Kneebone

STAFF: Maniapoto Māori Trust Board Ben Ormsby Ngahuia Herangi Jo Kukutai Kura Stafford


Otorohanga District Council Environmental Services Manager – Andrew Loe

Waikato District Council Chief Executive Gavin Ion

Waikato Regional Council Director, Community and Services, Neville Williams Chief Executive Vaughan Payne Director, Integrated Catchment Management Clare Crickett Acting Pou Tuhono, Erin Wilson Waikato Plan Project Director, James Bevan

Waipa District Council Manager-Strategy, Gary Knighton

Opening Karakia (Agenda Item 1) The meeting was opened with a karakia. Apologies (Agenda Item 2) Apologies were received from Trustee Tiwha Bell (Co-Chair), Mayor Max Baxter, Mayor Allan Sanson, Tipene Wilson. Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 3) There were no disclosures of interest. Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 4) Doc # 3299947 Trustee Maag moved/ Mayor Mylchreest seconded

NWoW15/1 RESOLVED THAT the agenda of the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum of Thursday 5 March 2015 be confirmed as business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (NWoW15/1)

Minutes of previous meeting (Agenda Item 5) Doc # 3166253 Members raised the following matters arising from the minutes of the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum held on Wednesday 17 September 2014:

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 5 Report of the Nga Wai o Waipa Co-governance Forum 16 February 2015 – page 3

With Variation 6 and the first in first considered for water allocation applications, is there a risk to those applicants after the Watercare application which is understood to be 8-12 months away from review. It was discussed that there would be a risk and that the consent for allocation will be likely notified consent based on the allocations being considered prior to Watercare’s application, but there were no answers on how to better manage this risk.

Page 12 – Trustee Maag’s name is incorrectly spelled. Page 7 – Otorohanga District Council Chief Executive David Clibbery was not

present at the 17 September 2014 meeting however Environmental Services Manager Andrew Loe was present.

Trustee Maag moved/ Mayor Mylchreest seconded

NWoW15/2 THAT the minutes of the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum of Wednesday 17 September 2014 be received.


The Joint Management Agreement Implementation (Agenda Item 6) Doc # 3296484, 3292023 Presented by Maniapoto Māori Trust Board Senior Policy Analyst, Ben Ormsby the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum were provided an overview on what had been achieved to date under the current Joint Management Agreement Implementation plan 2014/15 and provides the new implementation plan for the coming financial year. During discussion the following was noted: There have been updates to time frames, provided to the Forum for review –

these timeframes were agreed to by the Forum. The two year review of the Joint Management Agreement due in April 2015

has been considered as insufficient time to fully test the Agreement and the pushing out of the review date to April 2017 was accepted by the Forum.

Mayor Hanna moved/ Mayor Mylchreest seconded

NWoW15/3 RESOLVED 1. THAT the report “The Joint Management Agreement implementation”

(Doc # 3296484 dated 27 February 2015) be received, and

RECOMMENDED 2. That the Joint Management Agreement review is postponed until April

2017.


Draft Maniapoto Environment Management Plan for feedback (Agenda Item 7) Doc # 3297786 Presented by Maniapoto Māori Trust Board Senior Policy Analyst, Ben Ormsby the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum was provided an update on the Draft Maniapoto Environment Management Plan. Copies of the plan were circulated to all members. Members were advised that the plan could be reviewed on the


Maniapoto Māori Trust Board website via the link: http://maniapoto.iwi.nz/index.php/projects/environment During discussion the following was noted: Updates are being made to the Maniapoto Environment Management Plan with

the help of funding received through Waikato River Authority and after mana whenua have been spoken with.

Group workshops have been held and stakeholder feedback has been considered. Submissions are now being sought from all interested parties.

Feedback will be sought from Central Government within March 2015. Final approval will be sought from the Maniapoto Māori Trust Board within their

June meeting with a view to implement the plan by September 2015. The Environment Management Plan is a strategic Policy that interfaces with

the Waipa Catchment Plan which focuses on implementation at an operational level.

Submissions to the plan will ensure that the views of different plans are considered within the process to ensure unity between all of the Council and interested parties plans.

Copies of the plan have been provided to the other River iwi for feedback and to ensure alignment between iwi.

The Plan is an entry point for decision makers and is not a guide of exactly what Māori science is. It is for Maniapoto through this forum to interpret and advise Councils.

Mayor Mylchreest moved/ Trustee Wi seconded

NWoW15/4 THAT the report “Draft Maniapoto Environment Plan for feedback” (Doc #

3297786 dated 5 March 2015) be received for information.


Healthy Rivers / Wai Ora Project Update (Agenda Item 8) Doc # 3295960, 3303475 Presented by Maniapoto Māori Trust Board Senior Policy Analyst, Ben Ormsby the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum was provided with an update on the Healthy Rivers / Wai Ora Project. During discussion the following was noted: The project is in phase 4 exploring the technical and policy mix, feeding in to

the Community Stakeholder Group (CSG) decision making process. Further engagement will be sought from River iwi to provide feedback in to the

next phase. Completion of the project was originally planned for November 2015 however

the results from the research and science utilised require a minimum amount of time to complete which did not meet with the deadline. The Healthy Rivers Wai Ora Committee has recommended an extension of the project to April 2016.

The purpose of the tāngata whenua engagement is to adequately identify values, issues and aspirations of tāngata whenua in relation to the fresh water bodies.

There will be a joint five iwi and kaumātua hui in March.


The CSG is hosted by different stakeholders each time and complete a number of site visits.

There is a need for a review of the Freshwater Management Units rules and limits between the Upper Waikato, Lower Waikato, Lake Taupō and Waipā River. Different areas have different rules.

The CSG has been divested the responsibility to make decisions and recommendations after reviewing all collated information. These decisions are provided to Healthy Rivers Wai Ora Committee as recommendations.

There is a great appreciation for the time taken by the CSG members to attend the meetings, read through all the documentation provided and provide input in to the decisions made.

Mayor Hanna moved/ Mayor Mylchreest seconded

NWoW15/5 That the report Healthy Rivers / Wai Ora Project update report (Doc #3295960

dated 24 February 2015) be received for information.


An introduction to the Waikato Plan (Agenda Item 9) Doc # 3298149 Presented by Project Manager James Bevan the verbal presentation provided the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum an introduction to the Waikato Plan. During discussion the following was noted: The plan is a 30 year view on priorities for our communities and came about

after decisions had within the Mayoral Forum. The plan is non statutory and aims to give Waikato a voice as a whole when

working with Ministries and Crown agencies. It seeks to align plans and district decisions within the region. The Committee is comprised of political representatives from rural, community

and business sectors, with an independent chairperson. Tipene Wilson has been appointed to the Committee to assist with Māori

perspectives and has support from Gavin Donald to identify gaps and determine how to go forward together with iwi.

Concern was noted that one Māori representative was not enough to ensure that all of Waikato iwi had a voice. More representation was sought for this area.

Further concern was that the Waikato Plan was simply a reaction to other areas such as Auckland City “Super city”. Assurance was given that through the region there would be a fight against centralisation and the Plan is not a forerunner to unitary authority.

The Central Government has requested collaboration in Local Government between districts. The Waikato Plan seeks to do that by amalgamating regulatory plans and aligning the different councils measurements.

Success can be seen already from the extensive roading plans continuing through the region with a $2.3 billion investment by Central government to the region.

The Plan will consider contingencies for areas of low economic growth and how to address this. Areas of rural decline or areas like Taharoa – what will happen if the mine is closed?

The plan will get approval through the Mayoral forum who is looking for ways to address better access to work health and education for the region.


It is important that iwi are partners not stakeholders and should be fairly represented within the committee.

The draft plan will be complete by December 2015 with a view to engagement in April 2016 and completion in mid 2016.


NWoW15/6 THAT the report “An introduction to the Waikato Plan” (Doc # 3298149 dated 25

February 2015) be received.


Engagement on Waikato Regional Council’s 2015-2025 Long Term Plan Proposals (Agenda Item 10) Doc # 3295343 Presented by Director Community and Services, Neville Williams, the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum was advised of some of the inclusions to the Waikato Regional Council Long Term Plan. During the presentation the following points were noted: The Long Term Plan will be approved by Council 12 March 2015 and sent out

to all households for consultation from 14 March 2015 until submissions close on 14 April 2015.

There will be further consultation on, a regional development fund, integrating mātauranga Māori in to planning, funding environment projects, an indigenous biodiversity stocktake and Waipā catchment works.

Council had voted to remove the TBfree rate from within the rates collection.

During discussion the following was noted: At a recent meeting within the Waitomo District a number of constituents

discussed with the Mayor their confusion at the removal of Helicopter monitoring within the dairying sector. If it was the most efficient way to monitor and considered all environmental impacts, it was not something that a compliant person had to worry or be nervous about.

Trustee Maag moved/ Mayor Hanna seconded

NWoW15/7 THAT the verbal report on the “Engagement on Waikato Regional Council’s 2015-2025 Long Term Plan proposals” by the Director of Community and Services N Williams be received.


Waipa District Council 2015-2025 10 Year Plan (Agenda Item 11) Doc # 3297783, 3307190 Presented by Waipa District Council, Manager-Strategy, Gary Knighton the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum was provided with information from the 10 year plan.


During the presentation the following points were noted: More than $200 million of the planned $973 million to be spent will be on water,

waste water and storm water, with a proposal to upgrade the Cambridge’s water treatment plant to allow for future growth and improvements.

Two options for upgrading the Te Awamutu water supply were indicated as either upgrading the Pukerimu pipe and Parallel Road treatment plant or further water allocation from the Maungauika Stream. There will be an environmental cost of the second option which will need to be offset throughout the district.

Proposed Te Awamutu to Kihikihi cycleway with other options of contributing funds to assist the build of the Cambridge Green Belt cycle way and or the Te Awa River Ride trust to extend ride from Avantidrome to Hamilton via Mystery Creek.

Proposal for the council to take over maintenance of Waipa’s public rural drains where clearly defined – including inspection and spraying.

Commitment to the creation of a 40 hectare recreational park - Waipuke Park, on the shore of Lake Karapiro.

Consultation commences 10 March 2015 and concludes 13 April 2015.

Mayor Mylchreest moved/ Mayor Hanna seconded

NWoW15/8 THAT the verbal report on “Waipa District Council 2015-2025 10 Year Plan” by Manager-Strategy of Waipa District Council, Gary Knighton be received.


Long Term Plan – Otorohanga District Council (Agenda Item 12) Otorohanga District Council Environmental Services Manager Andrew Loe presented to the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum on their Long Term Plan and impacts for Maniapoto. During the presentation the following points were noted: The Long Term Plan for Otorohanga will be essentially business as usual with

no major infrastructure projects planned. Water meters have been considered and the public consultation has been

positive with the meters. Consultation will begin at the end of March with the plan being finalised in mid

June 2015.

Cr Southgate moved/ Mayor Hanna seconded

NWoW15/9 THAT the verbal report on Long Term Plan – Otorohanga District Council by Environmental Services Manager Andrew Loe be received.



Long Term Plan – Waitomo District Council (Agenda Item13) Mayor Hanna of Waitomo District Council presented to the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum on their Long Term Plan and impacts for Maniapoto. During the presentation the following points were noted: The approach the district has made has been to actively involve the community

with a number of public workshops and invitation by letter to appear and present to the Council for input in to the Plan.

The infrastructure at Te Kuiti will look to be upgraded. Water meters considered to regulate usage and as a future necessity for the

district. Working with Te Kuiti High School on their Sport facility. The Te Kuiti Waste water plant was officially opened after great collaboration in

the working group with the Maniapoto Māori Trust board, and now has a 25 year consent.


NWoW15/ 10

THAT the verbal report on Long Term Plan – Waitomo District Council by Mayor Hanna be received.


Long Term Plan – Waikato District Council (Agenda Item 14) Doc # 3298658, 3298659, 3303658 Waikato District Council CEO Gavin Ion provided the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum with an update on the Long Term Plan and impacts for Maniapoto. During the presentation the following points were noted: The council is looking to stimulate growth in all areas. Moving towards a user pays system and has so far had mixed feedback on the

subject of water meters. Are moving away from formal consultation to informal approaches with the

Community at markets, hui and public meetings to engage the community. For Parks and recreations grounds the community are being asked to consider

whether Council continues as is, improves the services and features/planting over a 1 year time frame or improve over a 2-3 year time frame.

The plan is open for consultation from 16 March 2015 and closes 17 April 2015.

Deputy Mayor Fulton moved/ Mayor Hanna seconded

NWoW15/ 11

THAT the report of the Chief Executive Waikato District Council – Summary: Waikato District Council Long Term Plan – be received.



Waipa Catchment Plan Update (Agenda Item 15) Doc # 3298035

Presented by Waipa Zone Manager, Grant Blackie, the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum were updated on the Waipa Catchment Plan. During the presentation the following points were noted: After the October 2014 Council approval of the Plan, the Waikato River

Authority (WRA) provided approval for a grant to the Plan of $1,550,933. In the priority 1 soil conservation catchments there will be a cost sharing model

that comprises of 35% WRC, 35% WRA, 30% landowner. There is no WRA funding for priority 2 catchments.

Information and advice will be provided across the catchment. There are joint field days being planned in conjunction with Dairy NZ and Beef

+ Lamb in April 2015 to introduce the plan and purpose to the Community.


NWoW15/ 12

THAT the report “Waipa Catchment Plan Update” (Doc # 3298035 dated 26

February 2015) be received for information.


Maniapoto Priorities for the restoration of the Waipā report (Agenda Item 16) Presented by Ngahuia Herangi this verbal report provided the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum an over view on the priorities for the Waipa restoration. During the presentation the following points were noted: The plan is being collated with NIWA and NIWA are arranging wānanga to

engage with iwi and collate information. There have been 53 responses that have been prioritised from 1 to 4 (1 being

immediate response). A copy of the Maniapoto Priorities for the Restoration of the Waipā River report

is available upon request. (Can be located on the Maniapoto website at http://www.maniapoto.iwi.nz/images/Maniapoto_Priorities_for_the_Waipa_River_Report_Final_Jan_2015.pdf )

Trustee Maag leaves the meeting 11.02am.


NWoW15/ 13

THAT the verbal report on “Maniapoto Priorities for the restoration of the Waipā report” by Ngahuia Herangi be received.



Waipā Fish Plan (Agenda Item 17) Doc # 3307186 Presented by Jo Kukutai the Ngā Wai o Waipā Co-Governance Forum was provided an update on the Waipā Fish Plan. During the presentation the following points were noted: The Plan has come about from the Nga Wai o Maniapoto (Waipa River) Act

2012. Maniapoto are working closely with other River iwi and Ministry of Primary

Industries. Has included work groups and site visits for further understanding of the fish

species and their environment. Seeking to align the plan with the Waipa Catchment Plan and other regional

environmental plans. Submissions to the plan close on 6 March 2015.

Deputy Mayor Fulton moved/ Trustee Kaati seconded

NWoW15/ 14

THAT the verbal report on “Waipā Fish Plan” by Jo Kukutai be received.


Trustee Maag returns to the meeting 11.13am.

Closing Comments by Co-Chairs Agenda Item 18 Trustee Wi The presenters were thanked for their presentations to the forum. Amazed at the planning and the key is synchronised to time, planning and work

towards the future. Councillor Bramley was acknowledged for his consideration and representation

to iwi with Waikato Regional Council.

Closing Karakia Agenda Item 19 Trustee Kaati closed the meeting with a karakia.

The meeting closed at 11.15am. Doc # 3300016

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Return to the report of Council meeting dated 30 April 2015 Report of the Nga Wai o Waipa Co-governance Forum 16 February 2015


Questions, answers and discussion focussed on the Maniapoto Environment Management Plan (the EMP), which had been presented to the Nga Wai o Waipa Co-governance Forum for feedback. It was reported that the EMP was a strategic Policy that interfaced with the Waipa Catchment Plan which focused on implementation at an operational level. It was at the discretion of the Maniapoto Maori Trust Board to determine the consultation process it would undertake on its EMP. Cr L Livingston moved/Cr A Livingston seconded.

WRC15/148 1. THAT the report of the Nga Wai o Waipa Co-governance Forum held 5 March 2015 be received.

2. THAT the decisions in Section A of the report be noted.

3. THAT the following recommendation contained in Section B of the report be approved:

The Joint Management Agreement Implementation THAT the Joint Management Agreement review is postponed until April 2017.


Waikato Plan Joint Committee – 13 March 2015 File: 03 04 32 (Agenda Item #4.2) Docs#3316994 Council received the following report of the Waikato Plan Joint Committee dated 13 March 2015.


WAIKATO PLAN JOINT COMMITTEE Minutes of the Waikato Plan Joint Committee held Council Chambers, Waipa District Council at 9.00am on Friday, 13 March 2015 MEMBERS PRESENT:

Chairperson Margaret Devlin Hamilton City Council Mayor J Hardaker Hauraki District Council Cr J Bubb (alternate) Matamata-Piako District Council Cr L Tisch Otorohanga District Council Cr R Klos (alternate) South Waikato District Council Cr H van Rooijen (alternate) Taupo District Council Cr R Jollands Waikato District Council Cr W Hayes Waikato Regional Council Cr TS Mahuta (alternate) Waipa District Council Mayor J Mylchreest Waitomo District Council Cr A Goddard Non-local government appointees B Gatenby S Wilson

IN ATTENDANCE

Vaughan Payne (CE Waikato Regional Council), John Cook (Environmental Development Strategy), Tariq Ashraf (Economic Development Strategy/Waikato Regional Council), Don Scarlet (Environmental Development Strategy)

ADVISORS/ STAFF:

Project Manager (J Bevan, Latitude Planning), Democracy Advisor (G Cannon, Waikato Regional Council)

APOLOGIES: Cr M Gallagher (Hamilton City Council alternate), Deputy Mayor B

Gordon (Hauraki District Council), Cr Anna Park (Taupo District Council alternate), Michael Spaans, Mark Ingle, Cr Bob Simcock (Waikato Regional Council

Accepted

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 15 Report of the Waikato Plan Joint Committee 13 March 2015 – page 2

Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda item 1)

RESOLVED THAT the agenda of the Waikato Plan Joint Committee of 13 March 2015 be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

Moved Mayor Mylchreest/seconded Cr Hayes

The motion was put and carried (WSP15/8)

Disclosures of Interest (Agenda item 2)

There were no disclosures of interest.

Confirmation of Previous Minutes (Agenda item 3)

The Chair noted that the minutes of the meeting held on 16 February 2015 had been circulated to members. Cr Tisch noted that point 5 of recommendation WSP15/05 that, ‘a budget allocation of $70,000 for non-local government members be recommended to participating Councils, with $19,000 of that total to be transferred to consultancy fees (for activities where Mr Wilson is engaged to assist with communication/consultation with iwi’, had been moved by Michael Spaans. It was noted that as a non-local government member, Mr Spaans had a conflict of interest and should not have moved the recommendation. Cr Tisch agreed to be recorded as having moved the motion in his place. It was agreed that the minutes should be amended accordingly.

RESOLVED THAT 1. The mover of resolution WSP15/05 is changed from M Spaans to Cr Tisch. 2. That in all other respects, the minutes of the Waikato Spatial Plan Joint

Committee held on 16 February 2015 be confirmed as a true and correct record.

Moved Cr Van Rooijen/Cr Goddard seconded


The Waikato Economic Development Strategy (Agenda item 4) Presented by Tariq Ashraf (Senior Strategic Advisor, Waikato Regional Council), John Cook and Don Scarlet of the Economic Development Strategy Governance group, this report provided the Committee with an update on the Waikato regional economic development strategy. The report included a power point presentation titled, ‘Waikato Economic Development Strategy’. In speaking to the report and presentation, Tariq Ashraf noted the following:


The Governance Group was identified together with the processes that had been completed up to the date of the meeting.

The presentation contained a one page snap shot of the strategy as a whole. The vision was to improve the living standards within the region. Historically, GDP had been the typical indicator of economic wellbeing. However, this was a limited indicator that ignored environmental and other constraints. This was would be taken into account throughout the development of the Plan.

The implementation plan was presented to the Committee. The monitoring and evaluation framework was noted in particular. There were long, medium and short term outcomes from outputs from the Plan. The current implementation plan only addresses the outputs and outcomes for the last year. The framework will be reviewed yearly. A new implementation plan will be released shortly.

Each of the Plan’s strategic priorities and associated action points were identified in the presentation. The following additional points were noted:

o Strategic Priority 1: Building on our local advantage – NZTA funding of the Hamilton/Longswamp portion of the Waikato Expressway (the Expressway) had been approved. Approval for the Huntly portion was expected later in the year. The priorities following the completion of the Expressway were being looked at.

o Strategic Priority 2: Growing global industries – There was a focus on engagement with businesses and elevating the visibility of the region.

o Strategic Priority 3: Making business easier – The action point associated with this priority was assessing councils’ business friendliness. The process of developing this policy had spurred Councils into action.

In speaking to the strategic priorities outlined in the presentation, John Cook noted the following additional points:

o Strategic Priority 4: Building, attracting and retaining skills and talents – People are important to building a region. Many Maori and Pacifika youth were not on the right pathways to meaningful employment. Up to this point, various agencies had been working in silos. There was a need to start working in a collaborative way. There was a need to improve the standard of education within the region. It was important to identify and map the needs of employers within the region. The engagement of the Ministry of Education (MoE) was increasing connections between schools and businesses to help ensure that young people were engaged in education that would lead to meaningful employment. There was a desire to develop a communications plan that would allow businesses to populate date about their needs to assist parents and young people in making education choices.

In speaking to the strategic priorities outlined in the presentation, Don Scarlet noted the following additional points:

o Strategic Priority 5: Telling the Waikato Story – The Waikato aimed to be the first region to tell a regional story. The key ingredients of the story would be live/work/play/invest/learn. EDS was working with the people who developed the ‘New Zealand Story’. Workshops were being run to help identify the personality of the region and form the ingredients that would make up the story.

Tariq Ashraf identified the next steps in the implementation plan. This was a short term activity that would be refreshed on an ongoing basis and would be informed by the Plan itself. During questions, answers and associated discussions, the Committee raised or noted the following:


The Committee asked how telling the Waikato Story could help increase investment in the region. EDS was working with Hamilton/Waikato Tourism on a strategy that would ‘house’ the story and increase capacity to grow visitor numbers through marketing.

It was noted that very few people have qualifications that directly relate to their employment, which highlighted the benefit of businesses populating their employment needs. There was a need for improved and more comprehensive careers advice within schools.

RESOLVED THAT 1. The report ‘Waikato Economic Development Strategy update” (Doc #

3295353) dated 6 March 2015 be received for information. 2. The Waikato Plan Joint Committee:

a. Notes the contents of “Waikato Means Business’ the Waikato economic development strategy (EDS).

b. Notes that as the Waikato Plan is completed it will influence future annual implementation plans of the EDS.

Moved Devlin/seconded Mayor Mylchreest The motion was put and carried (WSP15/10)

Options for Constituting the Waikato Plan Hearings Committee (Agenda Item 5)

Presented by James Bevan (Project Director, Latitude Planning) this report advised the Committee on the need for a Hearings Committee to consider submissions on the Draft Waikato Plan and options for how the Hearings Committee would be constituted.

During questions, answers and associated discussions, the Committee raised or noted the following points:

An independent Commissioner was an option. The need for a formal hearings process was questioned in light of new

legislation that would allow the Committee to hear from the community in a less formal way. This might be more time effective and accessible. It noted the diverse nature of the region and questioned how it could obtain localised views. The region has a number of internal boundaries, including iwi and District Health Board boundaries. The Chair supported this view and commented that the process should not be a box ticking exercise. A report was requested, to be presented at the June meeting of the Committee, identifying the options available. The Project Director noted the need for the agreed process to be approved by all participating Councils.

RESOLVED THAT: 1. The report ‘Options for constituting the Waikato Plan Hearings Committee’

dated 6 March 2015 be received for information. 2. The Project Director presents a paper to the September Joint Committee

meeting to inform the Committee’s decision on whether a Hearings Committee will be formed and/or what other consultative options might be available.

Moved Cr Jollands/seconded Cr Tisch



Waikato Plan Directors’ Report (Agenda item 6)

Presented by James Bevan (Project Director, Latitude Planning) this report was taken as read. It updated the Committee on:

Project milestones and deliverables. Budget expenditure to date. Communication actions Management of identified project risks. Completion of key actions from the Joint Committee held on 16 February

2015.

During questions, answers and associated discussion, the Committee raised or noted the following:

That the use of the term ‘Hamilton City’ should be replaced with ‘Hamilton’. The implementation plan needed to be finalised so that it could be put before

the Mayoral Forum to agree on its release. The budget was updated to the end of February 2015. All invoices had been

received for that period. Expenditure was on track. The big expense heading into April would be the development of the engagement policy. A report would be presented to the Committee at its next meeting.

RESOLVED THAT the report ‘Waikato Plan Project Directors Report’ dated 6 March 2015 be received for information.

Moved Mayor Mylchreest/seconded Cr Hayes


Waikato Plan Communications Protocol (Agenda item 7)

Presented by James Bevan (Project Director, Latitude Planning) this report was taken as read. It was provided for the Committee to adopt a consistent communications protocol for the development of the Waikato Plan.

During questions, answers and associated discussions, the Committee raised or noted the following:

It was agreed that questions about the Plan should be answered. The issues of individual communities should form the basis of these responses. All responses should be in line with the Communications Protocol, which was accepted by the Committee.

It was considered that a protocol for communications with Maori media should be added. The Project Director (James Bevan) undertook to discuss this with the Communications Advisor (Elizabeth Hughes).

The Committee agreed that communications requests should be captured and included in the Communications Report.

A newsletter would be developed.


RESOLVED THAT: 1. The report ‘Waikato Plan Communications Protocol’ dated 6 March 2015 be

received for information. 2. The Joint Committee adopt the Communications Protocol for the duration of

the Waikato Plan development, scheduled for completion in June 2016. 3. The Joint Committee instruct the Waikato Plan Project Team to implement

the provisions of the Communications Protocol. 4. The approved Communications Protocol is reported to each Council for

information.

Moved Cr Bubb/seconded Cr Jollands seconded The motion was put and carried (WSP15/13)

Meeting closed at 10.00am

* * * * *

Return to the report of Council meeting dated 30 April 2015 Report of the Waikato Plan Joint Committee 13 March 2015

Discussion ensued. It was anticipated that whilst not a statutory document, a special consultative process would be undertaken on Waikato Plan (draft approved for consultation followed by a hearing of submissions, deliberations and recommendation to the constituent Councils for adoption). Cr Buckley moved/Cr A Livingston seconded.

WRC15/149 1. THAT report of the Waikato Plan Joint Committee held 13 March 2015 be received.



Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee – 7 April 2015 File: 03 04 21 (Agenda Item #4.4) Docs#3339149 Cr L Livingston presented the following report to Council of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee dated 7 April 2015.


HAMILTON PUBLIC TRANSPORT JOINT COMMITTEE

Minutes of a meeting of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee held in the Council Chamber, Waikato Regional Council office 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at 1.00pm on Tuesday 7 April 2015. PRESENT: Hamilton City Council

Councillor MH Forsyth (Co-Chair) Councillor L Tooman

Waikato Regional Council Councillor LA Livingston (Co-Chair) Councillor J Hennebry

NZ Transport Agency A McKillop

Access and Mobility Representative (non voting) G Pomeroy

IN ATTENDANCE

STAFF: Hamilton City Council General Manager City Infrastructure (C Allen) Strategic Transport Planner (K Johns) Waikato Regional Council Chief Financial Officer (M Garrett) Acting Manager Transport Operations (T Darvill) Transport Marketing Co-ordinator (S Marinkovich) Transport Planner (V Kuo) Senior Transport Planner (G Morton) Democracy Advisor (J Cox)

APOLOGIES: B McMaster

Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 1) Cr Forsyth moved/Cr Hennebry seconded

HPTJC15/1 THAT the agenda of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee of 7 April 2015 be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (HPTJC15/1)

Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2) There were no disclosures of interest.

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 21 Report of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee 7 April 2015 – page 2 SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL)

Strategic Influences on Public Transport File 03 04 21 (Agenda Item 3) Doc #3271671 Presented by Senior Transport Planner Greg Morton and Transport Planner Vince Kuo, this item provided an update on current strategic influences on public transport. Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045 Development Update after hearings 16 and 17 February 2015. Some minor amendments were included in to the Plan Final plan recommended to Council through RTC and expected to be

adopted on 30 April 2015. Waikato Regional Public Transport Plan 2015-2025 Hearings were concluded after 2 February and 10 February 2015. Minor amendments were noted and included after deliberations 23

February 2015. Mostly operational related issues, which will be able to be address as part

of the day-to-day network operations. Presented to Council for adoption 26 March 2015 and expected to become

operative from 23 April 2015. Access Hamilton Review Determined that it would be a refinement of existing strategy rather than a

full review. Being developed jointly between NZTA, Hamilton City and Waikato

Regional council and will consider the future issues that need to be addressed.

2015-18 Government Policy Statement on Land Transport Government Policy Statement (GPS) was released in December 2014 and

will come in to force 1 July 2015. Key priorities – economic growth and productivity, road safety, value for

money. New objective added – a land transport system that delivers the right

infrastructure and services to the right level at the best cost. The GPS has also expanded its funding criteria for public transport

investment to include services outside of major urban centres that connect people to employment and education where there is a sufficient demand.

Update on the proposed withdrawal of the Ministry of Education funded school services Verbal update on recent meeting between Waikato Regional Council staff

and Ministry of Education. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: The original proposal for a Park and Ride facility in Pukekohe has been

scaled back in size by Auckland Transport. There is an opportunity to discuss with Horizons (Council) their subsidising

of the rail network for the Palmerston North to access Wellington. The reasons for and against the rail network can then be openly discussed and everyone can be fully informed around the basis for not pushing the Passenger rail network through early.

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 22 Report of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee 7 April 2015 – page 3

An update on the Fares review will be presented to the next meeting of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee.

Staff are working with CCS to develop the driver training package for bus driver awareness training that has been written in to the policy. The policy includes awareness of pedestrians, cyclists as well as those with disabilities.

The Access Hamilton review by Hamilton City Council will aim to ensure that the hierarchy of interventions are right.

Will be reviewing the use of land, multi use lanes in the city and a number of plans.

1.30 pm G Pomeroy enters the meeting.

The Chief Financial Officer advised there is agreement national discussion planned to look at the involvement of Ministry funding for school buses to be facilitated by NZTA. There is no confirmed time frame for this discussion. Cr Forsyth moved/Cr Tooman seconded

HPTJC15/02 THAT the report “Strategic Influences on Public Transport” (Doc # 3271671

dated 20 March 2015) be received for information.


Hamilton Public Transport Operations Report File 03 04 21 (Agenda Item 4) Doc # 3271693 Presented by Acting Manager Transport Operations Terry Darvill, and Transport Marketing Co-ordinator Susi Marinkovich this item provided an update on the Regional Public Transport Plan implementation activity within Hamilton. Operations Report November 2014 it was identified that Busit cards were being cloned and

used. When the fraud was identified security features were implemented to stop further issues occurring.

Issues have been found with bus patronage data where some passenger numbers were overstated. There is no impact on farebox or revenue.

New integrated ticketing system is in planning stages. Tenders go out in April 2015 and implementation mid 2016. First roll out of the technology is expected to occur in Otago.

Staff are working on an interim bus service for Rototuna north and Flagstaff in the third quarter of 2015.

Hamilton’s Orbiter bus route continues to be the most popular service with 21% of all urban trips.

Targeted Marketing More face to face marketing undertaken including Have a Go Day for

people with disabilities, a visit to Alandale retirement village and visits to schools, along with stands at events for Wintech and the University O weeks.


Marketing Events Large numbers on the rugby shuttle following a marketing partnership with

the Chiefs and new promotional activities. Improved traffic management and marketing contributed to 13,088

passengers for the Balloons Nightglow event.

Orbiter Marketing Campaign to be launched in April – “Passport to the city”, focusing on

destination marketing and the independence the Orbiter can give people.

During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: The bus patronage data error is related to a miscount in Gold Card

statistics. The error is in gross data only and early indications are that the data is 15% out. The error goes back to 2009.

There is still value in the trend reporting information provided. The cloning of cards was investigated and shutdown very quickly. The Northern bus route survey identified a need for service, particularly for

access to schools. A service will be put in place that will initially mirror what is in the Regional Public Transport Plan for the suburb public transport needs.

The Chiefs currently pay for the advertising and marketing with the free buses used on game day and when Super 15 finishes a user pays system will be set up with the ITM Cup Waikato team whereby they pay 1/3, Hamilton City Council pays 1/3 and Waikato Regional Council pay 1/3 for the buses.

The implementation plan that will be presented to the Committee will cover the events policy in detail.

The operational data indicates a current decrease in wheelchair numbers using the buses. Anecdotally the reasons indicated for this is the cost of travel and the loss of the 2 hour fare transfer.

A workshop on the farebox review will review decisions over concessions for students and the disability sector.

Software profile is already available online with the ability for people to register on their Busit cards any disability the issue with this is that the registration is voluntary.

2.00pm A McKillop leaves the room

Cr Forsyth moved/Cr Hennebry seconded

HPTJC15/03 THAT the report “Hamilton Public Transport Operations Report” (Doc #

3271693 dated 20 March 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (HPTJC15/03) 2.02pm A McKillop returns.

Engagement with University of Waikato on Transport issues. File 03 04 21 (Agenda Item 5) Doc # 3304225 Presented by Chief Financial Officer Mike Garrett, this item provided the Committee with information on engagement with the University of Waikato on transport issues.


The University of Waikato is a significant transport hub and the students are a major public transport user group. As part of the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) hearings it was noted there is a need for ongoing communication with the University to look at initiatives to improve travel behaviour and encourage use of public transport. Concession fares will be reviewed after a fare structure review to be completed in 2015. The RPTP also included actions for Council to work with tertiary institutions to identify the potential for third party funding to support the introduction of an off-peak tertiary student discount. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: There needs to be a holistic approach to address the better use of public

transport by tertiary students. As this will affect parking at the University and in the local suburbs meetings will need to include the new Vice Chancellor of the University of Waikato, Hamilton City Council and Waikato Regional Council.

There will need to be meetings between staff to determine the issues as a precursor to any formal meeting. Then workshops with councillors and interested external parties can take place.

Cr Livingston moved/ Cr Hennebry seconded

HPTJC15/04 THAT the report “Engagement with University of Waikato on Transport Issues” (Doc # 33304225 dated 5 March 2015) be received for information.


Andrew McKillop advised the Committee that with Andrew Wilson leaving NZTA for a new post at the Waikato Regional Council, as Manager Transport Operations, his new alternate for meetings of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee will now be Robert Brodnax.

Meeting closed at 2.10pm. Docs # 3339149

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Return to the report of Council meeting dated 30 April 2015 Report of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee 7 April 2015

Discussion ensued. Cr L Livingston undertook to follow up on the reported difficulties faced by a volunteer programme which provided a shuttle service for elderly residents from Matamata to Hamilton. Cr L Livingston moved/Cr seconded.


WRC15/150 1. THAT report of the Hamilton Public Transport Joint Committee held

7 April 2015 be received.



Strategy and Policy Committee – 14 April 2015

File: 03 04 15 (Agenda Item #4.5) Docs#3346077 Cr Stark presented the following report to Council of the Strategy and Policy Committee dated 14 April 2015.


STRATEGY AND POLICY COMMITTEE

Report of the Strategy and Policy Committee of the Waikato Regional Council held in the Council Chamber, Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East, at 10.30am on 14 April 2015. MEMBERS: Cr RM Simcock (Chair), Cr LA Livingston, Cr TM Stark, Cr KA White

IN ATTENDANCE: Cr PR Buckley, Cr ST Kneebone, Cr AD Livingston

STAFF: Director Science and Strategy (T May), and Democracy Advisor

(M Ahipene).

APOLOGIES:

Crs Graf and Southgate (for absence)

Accepted

Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 1) Cr Stark moved/Cr L Livingston seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/07 THAT the agenda of the Strategy and Policy Committee of 14 April 2015 as circulated be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (SPC15/07)

Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2) There were no disclosures of interest noted.

SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL)

Overview: Proposal for a Strategy to maximise the opportunities for using Waikato Waters File: 22 00 08 (Agenda Item 3) Doc: 3318690 Presented by Principal Policy Advisor Blair Dickie, the Committee were provided with background and rationale for a Regional Freshwater Strategy, currently being scoped by staff. The Committee provided comment and feedback on matters such as water type/sources, soil type, land use activities, trading schemes, stakeholders, water allocation and water ownership.

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 27 Report of the Strategy and Policy Committee 14 April 2015 – page 2

Recognising that communities valued water for different purposes, it was suggested that the project seek to enable the optimum use for water of the Waikato region now and into the future. It was also acknowledged that a number of complementary projects (such as the Spatial Plan, Three Waters work stream of the Mayoral Forum, Healthy Rivers and Variation 6), provided excellent information, but, in isolation each had limited scope. The Committee indicated general support, given the project would identify and establish connections between existing information and work, and maximise the opportunities for using Waikato waters. It was anticipated that the scoping exercise would identify existing pieces of work, existing resources, new work and costs. Staff undertook to provide a further report, at the June meeting of the Committee Cr L Livingston moved/Cr White seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/08 THAT the report Overview: Proposal for a Strategy to maximise the opportunities for using Waikato Waters (Doc #3318690) be received for information.


Resource Management Act review update File: 03 04 15 (Agenda Item 4) Presented by Principal Policy Advisor Blair Dickie, the Committee were provided with an update on the Resource Management Act review. Whilst yet to be confirmed, messages from central government indicated that the “One Plan” option was no longer considered a viable option. Instead, common terms would be required, to improve consistency and compatibility between district and regional planning documents. Cr L Livingston moved/Cr White seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/09 THAT the verbal report Resource Management Act review update by Blair Dickie be received.


Supreme Court decision on the New Zealand King Salmon appeal and the implications for Waikato Regional Council File: 22 03 96 (Agenda Item 5) Doc: 3267132 Presented by Senior Legal Advisor Shaun Plant, the Committee were provided a comprehensive report on the implications of the Supreme Court decision on the New Zealand King Salmon appeal for Council in relation to:

a) Planning documents; b) Resource Consent processing; and c) Te Ture Whaimana o Te Awa o Waikato, the Vision and Strategy for the

Waikato and Waipa rivers.

During questions, answers and related discussion it was noted that the implications were largely in relation to how the provisions of Council’s policies and plans would be interpreted. Therefore:

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 28 Report of the Strategy and Policy Committee 14 April 2015 – page3

Careful consideration would be required whilst drafting in future policy documents to ensure the provisions achieve their intended purpose.

Intentional flexibility in provisions would require explicit detail to provide clarity. It was also noted that the primacy of the Vision and Strategy had influenced the Court in its assessment of resource consent applications to determine how they not only protect but also restore or improve water quality in the Waikato river catchment, the Court highlighted the concept of ‘betterment’. However the Court was yet to indicate whether it considered the objectives and strategies of the Vision and Strategy are of a directive nature. The matter would likely be discussed through the Regional Plan Review process. Cr L Livingston moved/Cr White seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/10 THAT the report Supreme Court decision on the New Zealand King Salmon appeal and the implications for Waikato Regional Council (Doc #3267132 dated

2 April 2015) be received for information. The motion was put and carried (SPC15/10)

Waikato (Spatial) Plan File: 20 00 03 (Agenda Item 6) Doc: 3325396, 3325601, 3325587 Presented by Principal Strategic Advisor Urlwyn Trebilco, the Committee was provided with an update on the progress of the Waikato (Spatial) Plan. Discussion ensued, and during questions and answers it was noted that: It was anticipated that a number of key matters could be agreed to quickly,

however, given the interests represented, the Waikato Plan Joint Committee would be faced with difficult conversations.

Additional resources had been bought on board to manage the project. The Waikato Plan Joint Committee was currently developing its draft vision and

goals for engagement. It was anticipated that the draft plan would be completed by November 2015,

followed by a consultation process, and finalised in June 2016. Cr Stark moved/Cr White seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/11 1. THAT the report Waikato (Spatial) Plan (Doc # 3325396) be received for information.

2. THAT the following reports are received for information: A report on Waikato Plan progress from the Project Director (Doc #

3325601). Minutes of the 13 March Waikato Plan meeting and workshop (Doc #

3325587). The Waikato Plan Communications Protocol adopted by the Joint

Committee (included in Doc # 3325601).



Environment Canterbury Review File: 20 00 05 (Agenda Item 7) Doc: 3321169 By way of background information it was reported that when faced with a number of problems, the 14 elected Environment Canterbury (“ECan”) members had been replaced by 7 temporary government appointed members (in 2010). The government recently released a discussion paper on past and potential future governance of ECan. Principle Strategic Advisor Urlwyn Trebilco presented a report which provided information on the government’s review of ECan and the proposal for a mix of elected and government-appointed members on its governing body after 2016. During questions, answers and related discussion it was noted that: The discussion paper indicated the proposal as a transitional structure with a

return to a democratically elected ECan at a later date. Government recognised the benefit of the mixed model; however, there was

nothing to suggest that the model may become the model for other parts of New Zealand.

It was agreed that a Council submission on the proposal, was necessary. During discussion it was acknowledged that appointed members would provide technical expertise and improve regional decision making; however, those views were balanced with concern for the loss of democracy and accountability, as well as concern that the model may be rolled out to other parts of New Zealand. It was noted that there are likely to be a number of views on the proposal and that consensus at Council would be unlikely. The direction that the Committee provided was that the submission could canvass issues rather than support or oppose the proposal. Submissions closed 1 May, therefore staff undertook to draft a submission based on submission points raised by LGNZ, which would be presented to Council for consideration at its meeting scheduled 30 April 2015. Cr Simcock moved/Cr White seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/12 THAT the report Environment Canterbury Review (Doc # 3321169) be received for information


Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari (Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Plan) File: 22 03 85K (Agenda Item 8) Doc: 3317029 Policy Manager Tony Quickfall spoke to the report on progress and milestones for the Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Plan. By way of background information it was reported that Sea Change, a collaborative project being led by a partnership between mana whenua, and local and central government agencies, sought to create a marine spatial plan, designed to safeguard the future of the Hauraki Gulf. It was anticipated that all agencies involved in the development would adopt the Plan once finalised. It was likely that parts of the Plan would inform Council’s Regional Plan review. Staff intended to provide further updates to inform the Committee as the Plan neared completion.


Cr L Livingston moved/Cr Stark seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/13 THAT the report Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari (Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Plan) (Doc #3317029) be received for information.


With the agreement of the meeting, item 11 (Comments on draft Regulations for Abandoned Coastal Structures) was taken as the next item of business.

Comments on draft Regulations for Abandoned Coastal Structures File: 22 03 00 (Agenda Item 11) Doc: 3284203 Presented by Policy Manager Tony Quickfall, the Committee were informed of comments provided by Waikato Regional Council staff to the Office of Treaty Settlements (“OTS”) in relation to proposed regulations for the transfer of ownership of abandoned coastal structures to the Crown. In Summary, the regulations to manage abandoned structures had been under development and several councils provided feedback on flaws in the initial proposals. OTS took that feedback on board, and drafted regulations, produced to provide a suitable degree of flexibility and directions for councils. Cr L Livingston moved/Cr White seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/14 THAT the report Comments on proposed Regulations for Abandoned Coastal Structures (Doc #3284203 dated 10 April 2015) be received.


Draft National Environmental Standard for Plantation Forestry File: 22 02 83 (Agenda Item 9) Doc: 3296169 Presented by Senior Policy Advisor Megan Kettle, the Committee were provided with information on the draft National Environmental Standard for Plantation Forestry (“NES”). Following an initial review staff identified the following concerns: Potential difficulty balancing competing central government legislation. Discretion for sensitive receiving environments. Effect on other activities. Issues in implementation. Questions, answers and discussion ensued. Having considered the information presented, the Committee endorsed the recommended approach that staff advocate to the Ministry for Primary Industries, and discuss with the working party, to effect change in the proposal prior to notification. A further update would be provided to the Committee, should Cabinet move to develop an NES for public consultation.


Cr L Livingston moved/Cr White seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/15 THAT the report “Draft National Environmental Standard for Plantation Forestry” (Doc #3296169 dated 24 March 2015) be received.


Upper Waikato Conversions File: 41 03 02 (Agenda Item 10) Doc: 3341447 The Director of Science and Strategy Tracey May presented the report which provided an overview of the Upper Waikato pine to pasture conversion issue, and measures undertaken to inform a Council position. By way of background information it was noted that media reported a call for a moratorium on dairy conversions. The catalyst was reported as being water availability and cost of meeting new rules. The issue of increased pine to pasture conversions in the Upper Waikato and Waipa catchments in advance of a regional plan rule being notified was of concern. During questions, answers and related discussion, it was noted that work was progressing in response to the issue which included spatial modelling to validate the issue and improve the evidential base for management options. The outcome would be a recommendation as to the tools that were the most effective and efficient in relation to the management of the issue. Until such time as all the information was available and the suite of tools for sectors was identified, it was considered premature to state that a moratorium was required. Cr White moved/Cr L Livingston seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/17 That the report Upper Waikato Conversions (Doc #3341447 dated 30 March 2015) be received.


Meeting closed at 12.50pm. Doc #3326077

* * * * *

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 32 Return to the report of Council meeting dated 30 April 2015 Report of the Strategy and Policy Committee 14 April 2015

In response to a request, staff undertook to re-circulate the report on the “Supreme Court decision on the New Zealand King Salmon appeal and the implications for Waikato Regional Council” (Doc#3267132).

Cr Stark moved/Cr Husband seconded.

WRC15/151 1. THAT the report of the Strategy and Policy Committee held 14 April 2015 be received.



CE Employment & Remuneration Committee – 16 April 2015 File: 03 02 50 (Agenda Item #4.6) Docs#3352731 Cr Southgate presented the following report to Council of the CE Employment & Remuneration Committee dated 16 April 2015. The record was corrected to include Cr Stark’s attendance at the meeting.


CE EMPLOYMENT & REMUNERATION COMMITTEE

Report of the CE Employment & Remuneration Committee [CEERC] of the Waikato Regional Council held in the Waitoa Room, Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at 8.35am on Thursday 16 April 2015. MEMBERS: Councillor PA Southgate (Chair), Councillor TS Mahuta, Councillor

J Hennebry, Councillor RM Simcock, and Councillor GWH Vercoe

IN ATTENDANCE: Chief Executive Officer (VRJ Payne) for Items 4 & 6. Consultant from Teesdale Loof (P Loof) Councillor TS Stark

STAFF: Democracy Advisor (D Thurlow).

APOLOGIES: Councillor Mahuta for lateness. Accepted

Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 1) Cr Hennebry moved/Cr Simcock seconded

CEER15/6 RESOLVED THAT the agenda of the CE Employment & Remuneration Committee of 16 April 2015 as circulated be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (CEER15/6)

Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2) There were no disclosures of interest noted.

SECTION B: (FOR RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL) CE Performance Management and Remuneration Review Processes for 2015/16 (Agenda Item 3) Doc # 3353177 Consultant P Loof from Teesdale Loof provided an update of the proposed process for the CE performance management and remuneration reviews for the 2015/16 financial year including the establishment of key performance indicators for the Chief Executive for the 2015/16 financial year. The proposed process for the CE performance management and remuneration reviews for the 2015/16 financial year, as outlined in the report by P Loof (Doc # 3353177), was agreed with the following addition:

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 34 Report of the CE Employment & Remuneration Committee 16 April 2015 – page 2

In relation to Step 1.

o CE Employment and Remuneration Committee and Chair must put pressure on councillors to fully participate in the CE end of year evaluation. The poor response rate of ~50% from councillors to the questionnaire used in the CE’s mid-year review was noted.

o P Loof will be available to speak with any councillors who so choose and discuss with them their answers to the questionnaire provided.

o P Loof will contact and interview a list of external stakeholders to be agreed by Council following an introductory request to participate from the Chair.

o Tier 2 executives will provide their feedback via a questionnaire provided.

In relation to Step 2 o P Loof will provide analysis of feedback from councillors, external

stakeholders, and tier 2 managers to a workshop of Council to be held at the end of May/early June 2015 so that Council can form a consensus assessment of the CE’s performance for FY15 as the basis for the CE’s FY15 performance review.

- Members were advised that the contract with Teesdale Loof expires on 1 May 2015. It was noted that Council will look to extend the contract to the end of the financial year. Members were further advised that a report will be presented to the May 2015 CE Employment and Remuneration Committee meeting for consideration on Human Resource Consultancy Services for the 2015/16 financial year.

Cr Simcock moved/Cr Hennebry seconded

CEER15/7 RESOLVED 1. THAT the report ‘CE Performance Management and Remuneration

Review Processes for 2015/16’ (Doc # 3353177) be received. RECOMMENDED 2. THAT the schedule in the report from Teesdale Loof ‘CE Annual

Performance Management and Remuneration Reviews for 2015/16’ (Doc # 3344264) be adopted with the amendments identified in the minutes (Doc # 3352731).

RECOMMENDED 3. THAT the Chairperson works with Paul Loof of Teesdale Loof, subject

to an extension of the Human Resource Consultant’s contract, to implement the CE Annual Performance and Remuneration Review Process agreed to in No.2 resolution above.


Councillor Mahuta arrived at the meeting of 8.55am.

Proposed Chief Executive 2015/16 Key Performance Indicators (Agenda Item 4) Doc # 3344179


The Chief Executive presented proposed key performance indicators for 2015/16 financial year and sought feedback on the quantum of key performance indicators and the priority topics. During questions, answers and related discussion members raised or noted the following matters: - The list provided by the CE was discussed and all were considered appropriate

potential KPIs. The CE Employment and Remuneration Committee’s view was that there should ultimately be no more than seven SMART KPIs. It was agreed that the CE would bring his proposed KPIs including some outline of what measures might be used and an indication of his “top seven priorities” to a workshop of Council within the next month at which Council and the CE will discuss and attempt to agree on a list of KPIs. It was noted that Councillors could propose other KPIs in this workshop.

Cr Simcock moved/Cr Hennebry seconded

CEER15/8 RESOLVED 1. THAT the report ‘Proposed Chief Executive 2015-2016 KPIs’ (Doc #3344179

dated 8 April 2015) be received.

RECOMMENDED 2. THAT the CE Employment and Remuneration Committee receive and

endorse the priority KPI topics from the Chief Executive to use as a basis for discussion with Council and subsequent drafting KPIs for the 2015/16 financial year.



Resolution to Exclude the Public (Agenda Item 5) Cr Southgate moved/Cr Simcock seconded

CEER15/9 RESOLVED THAT in accordance with the provisions of Standing Orders NZS9202:2003 incorporating Amendment No. 1, Appendix A & B (p40/42) and Section 48 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, the public be excluded from the following part of the meeting. The general subject of the matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to this matter and the specific grounds under Section 48(1) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows:

Item No.

Item Name and general subject of matter to be considered

Reason for passing this resolution in relation to matter

Ground(s) under Section 48(1) for the passing of this resolution

6 CE Employment and Remuneration Committee, Terms of Reference, CE Responsibilities

Good reason(s) to withhold exist under Section 7

Section 48(1)(a)


This resolution is made in reliance on Section 48(1) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 and the particular interest or interests protected by Section 7 of that Act which would be prejudiced by the holding of the whole or relevant part of the proceedings of the meeting in public are as follows:

Item No Reason/s for withholding official information Section/s 6 Protection of privacy of natural persons S7(a)

THAT in accordance with the provisions of Standing Orders NZS9202:2003, (Incorporating Amendment No 1) Clause 2.16.4 and the Local Government Official Information Act 1987, Section 48(5) and (6) that with respect to Item No. 6 CE Employment and Remuneration Committee Terms of Reference, CE Responsibilities, P Loof of Teesdale Loof remains in the public excluded session to provide advice to Council.


Return to Open Meeting at 9.55am.

Annual Council Performance Appraisal and Development Process (Agenda Item 7) Doc # 3353178 Consultant Paul Loof from Teesdale Loof presented a proposal for an annual Council performance appraisal and development process for consideration by the Committee. Councillors discussed this matter thoroughly and concluded: That an annual, structured review by councillors of the performance of Council

in the previous year leading to the identification and taking of action to improve Council performance would be a valuable process. In relation to the proposal that such process commence following the conclusion of the 2014/15 financial year councillors were of the view that a decision could not be made until the upcoming Steve McDowell workshop was concluded and it was clear how much overlap or duplication there was between the two initiatives.

In relation to the second part of the proposed new process whereby councillors, on a voluntary basis, would annually provide assessment and feedback on each other’s performance (for development purposes) the majority of the CE Employment and Remuneration Committee expressed concern that the political environment in which they operate might blunt the efficacy of such a process.

In conclusion the CE Employment and Remuneration Committee determined to review both parts of this proposition after the Steve McDowell workshop.

Cr Simcock moved/Cr Mahuta seconded

CEER15/12 RESOLVED THAT the report ‘Annual Council Performance Appraisal and Development Process’ (Doc # 3353178 dated 8 April 2015) be received.

The motion was put and carried (CEER15/12) Meeting closed at 10.20am. Doc: 3352731


* * * * *

Return to the report of Council meeting dated 30 April 2015 Report of the CE Employment & Remuneration Committee 16 April 2015

Cr Southgate moved/Cr Mahuta seconded.

WRC15/152 1. THAT the report of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee held be received.

2. THAT the decisions in Section A of the report be noted. 3. THAT the following recommendations contained in Section B of the

report be approved:

CE Performance Management and Remuneration Review Processes for 2015/16 THAT the schedule in the report from Teesdale Loof ‘CE Annual Performance Management and Remuneration Reviews for 2015/16’ (Doc#3344264) be adopted with the amendments identified in the minutes (Doc#3352731). THAT the Chairperson works with Paul Loof of Teesdale Loof, subject to a extension of the Human Resource Consultant’s contract, to implement the CE Annual Performance and Remuneration Review Process agreed to in No.2 resolution above. Proposed Chief Executive 2015/16 Key Performance Indicators THAT the CE Employment & Remuneration Committee receive and endorse the priority KPI topics from the Chief Executive to use as a basis for discussion with Council and subsequent drafting KPIs for the 2015/16 financial year.


Integrated Catchment Management Committee – 16 April 2015 File: 03 04 08 (Agenda Item #03 04 08) Docs#3352771 Cr Husband (with the support of Cr Graf) noted his intention to revisit a recommendation from the Coromandel Catchment Committee that requested that Council explore, in conjunction with other regional councils and the Department of Conservation, the potential costs and benefits of a bounty programme for possums, with the aim of enhancing control efforts and stimulating economic growth. The recommendation had been considered by the Integrated Catchment Management Committee, at its meeting dated 16 April 2015, but defeated. The minutes recorded that discussion had ensued about the amount of staff time and money that research into a bounty programme would take, and noted a comment that decisions of other regional councils and the Department of Conservation, were not within the control of Waikato Regional Council.


Discussion indicated views both for and against the proposal to revisit the defeated recommendation. Those against were not comfortable with overturning a decision of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee, having not been present to fully understand the debate and decision. Those in support were of the view that the recommendation in principle had gained some support, however, poor wording had been the reason it was defeated. A procedural motion was put forward, seeking to adjourn debate until after the lunch break, to allow sufficient time for Cr Husband to craft an appropriate recommendation, for consideration. Cr A Livingston moved/Cr Buckley seconded a procedural motion

WRC15/153 THAT the item of business being discussed, lie on the table until after the lunch adjournment.

The motion was put and carried (WRC15/153) Cr Husband then presented the following report to Council of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee dated 16 April 2015.


INTEGRATED CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Report of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee of the Waikato Regional Council held in the Council Chamber, Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at 10.03 am on Thursday 16 April 2015. MEMBERS: Councillors

Stu Husband (Chair) Peter Buckley Stu Kneebone Timoti Bramley Bob Simcock Theresa Stark Tipa Mahuta (ex officio) Catchment Committee Chairs Robert Hicks Malcolm Lumsden Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai Mike Moss Stephanie O’Sullivan John Sanford Sue Yerex Councillor Alan Livingston

STAFF: Director Integrated Catchment Management (Clare Crickett), Chief Executive Officer (Vaughan Payne), Manager Business and Technical Services (Bruce Peploe), Manager Lower Waikato/Waipa/West Coast Catchments (Matthew Davis), Manager Taupo/Upper Waikato Catchments (Anne McLeod), Manager Hauraki/Coromandel Catchments (Julie Beaufill), Democracy Advisor (Jennie Cox)

IN ATTENDANCE:

Councillor Hugh Vercoe

APOLOGIES: Councillor P Southgate, Councillor K White, Sally Strang (for absence), Councillors T Mahuta, T Stark, T Bramley and B Simcock (for lateness)

Accepted Confirmation of Agenda

(Agenda Item 1) An amendment made to Page 54 with two recommendations further identified within the Coromandel Catchment Committee minutes that were not recorded on the Item 10 “Summary of Section B Recommendations to Council”. This section (page 53 to 56) was provided to each member at the start of the meeting. Cr P Buckley moved/ S O’Sullivan seconded

ICM15/14 RESOLVED THAT the agenda of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee of 16 April 2015 as circulated, with the amended pages 53 to 56, be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/14)

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 40 Report of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee 16 April 2015 – page 2

Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2) There were no disclosures of interest.

SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL) Minutes of Previous Meeting File: 03 04 08 (Agenda Item 3) Doc # 3282811, 3343544 Cr P Buckley moved/ J Sanford seconded

ICM15/15 RESOLVED THAT the minutes of the meeting of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee held on 12 February 2015 (Doc # 3282811) and the extract from the minutes of the Council meeting held on 26 February 2015 (Doc # 3343544) be received.


Matters Arising from previous minutes There were no matters arising from the minutes. Issues/Actions from Integrated Catchment Management Meeting File: 03 04 08 (Agenda Item 4) Doc # 3266517 Presented by the Director Integrated Catchment Management (C Crickett) this item provided an update on the actions requested at the 12 February 2015 meeting. Most of the items were to be completed through the Long Term Plan

process. The paper that was presented to the Strategy and Policy Committee on 14

April 2015 on dairy conversions in the Upper Waikato and the minutes from that meeting will be provided to the members of the Integrated Catchment Committee for their information.

Cr P Buckley moved/ J Sanford seconded

ICM15/16 RESOLVED THAT the report “Issues/Actions from Integrated Catchment Management Meeting February 2015” (Doc # 3266517 dated 9 April 2015) be received.


SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL) Sources of Nitrogen and Phosphorus in the Waikato and Waipa Rivers, 2003-2012 File: 03 04 08 (Agenda Item 5) Doc # 3270835


Presented by Water Air and Waste Ecologist Bill Vant, this report provided estimates of the relative contributions of the various sources of the nitrogen and phosphorus carried by the Waikato and Waipa Rivers in the decade 2003-2012. Estimates were calculated using data from Council’s routine river water quality monitoring and from resource consents that permit the discharge of treated waste waters to these rivers. This analysis provides key information to the Healthy Rivers Technical Leadership Group and a full technical report is now available on Council’s website.

Councillor Bramley arrives 10.12am.

During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: The flow from Waikato to Tuakau where flow (m3/s) is shown as 402 is the

average recorded over the decade 2003-12. The basis for the background measurement in the nitrogen and phosphorus

loads is an estimate. It is based on recorded levels in undeveloped streams elsewhere in the region. It also assumes that the Waipa and Waikato catchments used to be like parts of the Taupo catchment is now.

Measured nitrogen from rainfall is low in New Zealand when compared with parts of America or Europe where the rainfall is through air pollution from cars or coal burning industry.

The presence of nitrogen is found to be greater in wet years than dry. This is not due to the rain but to more groundwater being washed out.

Councillors Stark, Simcock, Mahuta arrive 10.28am

Healthy Rivers is focussed on the four contaminants, namely nitrogen, phosphorus, sediment and E.coli. Studies of heavy metals and pesticides every five years show that concentrations are either negligible or below levels at which adverse effects can occur.

The nitrogen and phosphorus loads have also been measured and recorded in the Hauraki region. Within this region when measuring land use, the assumption is of pastoral/farming land use. All stream monitoring is upstream from the peat land so is not affected by any groundwater from the peat.

E.coli is a biological contaminant so it degrades the further it travels from the source point.

The combined E.coli point source load in the Waikato river was equivalent to about 3% of the corresponding value for Waikato River at Tuakau.

Waitomo District Council has achieved a reduction from over 2000 Gcfu/d of E.coli measured at the point source to less than 20 Gcfu/d after the upgrade of the Te Kuiti Waste Water treatment plant and installation of a UV light bank.

At Tuakau, about two thirds of the E.coli comes from the Waipa river and 1/3 comes from the Waikato river. E.coli has been shown to have died within the hydro lakes.

The freshwater monitoring sites in the Hauraki area are in the mid region to ensure that the monitoring is unaffected by tidal backflow and saltwater. The results are completed on the lower regions of the rivers with the use of modelling.


M Moss moved/ S O’Sullivan seconded

ICM15/17 RESOLVED THAT the report “Sources of Nitrogen and Phosphorus in the Waikato and Waipa Rivers, 2003-2012” (Doc #3270835 dated 11 February 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/17) With the consent of the meeting Item 8 was heard at this time.

SECTION B: (FOR RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL) Graham’s Creek – Final Design and Rating Classification Changes File: Z21 F751 (Agenda Item 8) Doc # 3320513 This item was taken as read and not presented to. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: The bridge at SH25 will be subject to an upgrade by Thames Coromandel

District Council and will be completed to appropriate flood control standards.

Cr P Buckley moved/ J Sanford seconded

ICM15/18 RESOLVED

THAT the report “Graham’s Creek – Final Design and Rating Classification Changes” (Doc #3320513 dated 23 March 2015) be received; and

RECOMMENDED

THAT the proposed rating classification changes be endorsed.


SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL) The meeting returned to the agenda and considered Item 6 at this time. Healthy Rivers Wai Ora Project Update File: 03 04 08, 23 10 09 (Agenda Item 6) Doc # 3345502 Presented by Dr Bryce Cooper, Chair of the Technical Leaders Group, this report updates the Committee on the progress of the Healthy Rivers: Plan for Change / Wai Ora: he Rautaki Whakapaipai project. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: Freshwater management units are a requirement under the National Policy

Statement released 2014. Guidance material from the National Policy Statement is still being generated so the Technical Leaders Group of the Healthy Rivers project is still working things out as they go along.

Shallow lakes in the Waipa area are still being classified.


The Technical Leaders Group and the Collaborative Stakeholders Group are wholly independent of Council and as such are making their own decisions based on a varied range of specialist information.

A requirement from the National Policy Statement is for Freshwater Management units to set clear and acceptable levels of contaminants. These will be different per catchment.

The vision and strategy provides guidance to the Collaborative Stakeholders Group.

The West Coast catchment and Hauraki catchment will be looking forward to an effective template being applied to their areas. Having already completed the process for the Waikato and Waipa rivers the next stages will be able to be completed quicker and at less cost.

S O’Sullivan moved/R Hicks seconded

ICM15/19 RESOLVED THAT the report “Healthy Rivers Wai Ora Project Update” (Doc # 3345502

dated 7 April 2015) be received.


SECTION B: (FOR RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL) Shallow Lakes Management Plan File: 75 40 03 (Agenda Item 7) Doc # 3189191 Having been presented to the November 2014 Integrated Catchment Management Committee meeting and the individual Catchment Committees this item was taken as read. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: A correction of the Shallow Lakes management plan Volume 2 was sought

o Page 52, removal of bullet point 3 – “continue to have WRC staff representation on the Lake Rotokauri Management Committee”.

Cr S Kneebone moved/ Cr B Simcock seconded

ICM15/20 RESOLVED

THAT the report “Shallow Lakes Management Plan” (Doc #3189191 dated 7

April 2015) be received, and

RECOMMENDED

THAT the Integrated Catchment Management Committee recommends to Council that the Shallow Lakes Management Plan (Doc # 2365066 and # 2256414) be adopted, with the correction noted.




Integrated Catchment Management Groups of Activities – Financial Status Report to 31 March 2015 File: 03 04 08 (Agenda Item 9) Doc # 3340542 This item was taken as read. Cr P Buckley moved/ Cr T Stark seconded

ICM15/21 RESOLVED THAT the report “ICM Groups of Activities – Financial Status Report to 31 March 2015” (Doc #3340542 dated 9 April 2015) be received for information.


SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL) and SECTION B: (FOR RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL)

Catchment Committee Reports February to March 2015 File 03 04 08 (Agenda Item 10) The report was taken as read.

ICM15/22 RESOLVED 1. THAT the report Catchment and Land Drainage Committee Minutes

(Doc# 3343129 dated 2 April 2015) be received.


Coromandel Catchment Committee File: 03 02 35 (Agenda Item 10.1) Doc 3288094 Presented by the Chair of Coromandel Catchment Committee John Sanford the Committee were provided with the minutes of the meeting held 17 February 2015. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: That after floods in the Tapu Stream area the stream maintenance budget

is in credit of over $50,000. The community is asking for Council to look at a rating change for the area.

Clarification was sought to ensure that the proposal from the Committee was that Council completed a bulk purchase of the Good nature traps and then on sell them to farmers or residents at cost price without making a profit.

Literature available on the subject of Bounty programmes will be provided as background information to the Chair of the Coromandel Catchment Committee.

The Chair of the Coromandel Catchment Committee and the Integrated Catchment Management Committee Chair recognised that Coromandel is a unique community with a big voice and there is a strong community sentiment against the use of 1080 and the will to look at different options.

Concern was expressed in relation to Council being requested to do more on Bounty proposals.


Discussion ensued around the recommendations and it was proposed to consider the first four recommendations and after further discussion consider the last recommendation.

M Lumsden moved / J Sanford seconded

ICM15/23 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Coromandel Catchment Committee meeting held on 17 February 2015 (Doc #3288094) be received, and 1) the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2) the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted

RECOMMENDED 1. THAT staff consult with ratepayers in the Tapu Stream maintenance

area on reducing the stream maintenance programme and associated annual rate requirement.

2. THAT the Coromandel Catchment Committee requests that the

Integrated Catchment Management Committee support the urgent actioning of amendments to the Waikato Regional Council Regional Coastal Plan and that priority is given to the removal of the protected status of mangroves (Doc # 3288364).

3. THAT the Coromandel Catchment Committee request for its further

consideration a report from staff detailing the comparative application of council rating and funding policies in respect of the following major regional assets and activities: Lake Taupo water quality improvement, Cambridge bicycle velodrome, Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust, and Coromandel harbours, catchments and CMA.

4. THAT the Coromandel Catchment Committee request council to

explore the potential costs and benefits of bulk purchase of Goodnature A12 and A24 traps and other efficient traps, with the intention of making these traps available to individual landowners for purchase at council’s cost.


Discussion ensued about the amount of staff time and money that research in to a bounty programme would take. It is not possible to influence the decisions of other regional councils or the Department of Conservation. J Sanford moved/ Cr S Husband seconded

5. THAT the Coromandel Catchment Committee request council to explore, in conjunction with other regional councils and the Department of Conservation, the potential costs and benefits of a bounty programme for possums, with the aim of enhancing control efforts and stimulating economic growth.

The motion was lost on a show of hands.

Councillors Bramley, Stark and Husband voted for the motion.


Waipa Catchment Committee File: 03 02 34 (Agenda Item 10.2) Doc # 3290345 Presented by the Waipa Catchment Committee Chairperson Councillor Alan Livingston the Committee were provided with the minutes from the meeting 18 February 2015. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: The Integrated Catchment Management Committee members were thanked

for their commitment in attending the Collaborative Stakeholders Group drop in days.

The Waipa Catchment plan is subject to Long Term Plan approval and Communications is paramount to the success of the Catchment Plan.

A Logo has been selected for the use with all Waipa Catchment Plan pamphlets and updates.

Workshops have been arranged including on 22 April 2015 in conjunction with a fieldtrip along with Dairy NZ and another day organised with Beef & Lamb.

Cr A Livingston moved / Cr S Kneebone seconded

ICM15/25 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Waipa Catchment Committee meeting held on 18 February 2015 (Doc # 3290345) be received, and 1) the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2) the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted

RECOMMENDED 1. THAT the Waipa Catchment Committee moved that the level of

funding and funding policy to the Waipa Catchment Plan is endorsed by the Committee and further this endorsement is promoted to Council by way of submission to be signed by the Deputy Chair and Seconder of this motion.

2. THAT the Waipa Catchment Committee endorse the Waipa

Catchment Plan Branding as indicated by staff on 18 February 2015 within Presentation Doc # 3289803.


Lake Taupo Catchment Committee File: 03 02 31 (Agenda Item 10.3) Doc # 3302046 Presented by the Lake Taupo Committee Chairperson Sue Yerex the Committee were provided with the minutes from the meeting 27 February 2015. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: The meeting was a short meeting and there was a field trip to visit all of the

flood protection assets. The Committee completed a submission to the Taupo District Council

Reserve Management Plan. The Committee completed a submission to the Waikato Regional Council

Long Term Plan. Next meeting there will be a workshop on Council Finances. The Committee is pleased to welcome the new Zone Manager Alan Kirk.


S Yerex moved/S O’Sullivan seconded

ICM15/26 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Lake Taupo Catchment Committee meeting held on 27 February 2015 (Doc # 3302046) be received, and 1) the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2) the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted

RECOMMENDED 1. THAT the Committee recommends that the requirement to review the

Lake Taupo foreshore erosion funding policy be deferred until there is a substantive reason for changing from the current funding splits or that a decision is made to formally review the Lake Taupo Erosion and Flood Strategy, Project Watershed or other related policy.


Central Waikato Catchment Committee File: 03 02 33 (Agenda Item 10.4) Doc # 3229503 Presented by the Central Waikato Committee Chairperson Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai the Committee were provided with the minutes from the meeting 3 March 2015. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: There were no recommendations from this meeting. The Committee made a submission to the Council Long Term Plan. M Moana-Tuwhangai moved/ Cr S Husband seconded

ICM15/27 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Central Waikato Catchment Committee meeting held on 3 March 2015 (Doc #3229503) be received.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/27) Upper Waikato Catchment Committee File: 03 02 32 (Agenda Item 10.5) Doc # 3302427 Presented by the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee Chairperson Stephanie O’Sullivan the Committee were provided with the minutes from the meeting 4 March 2015. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: Short meeting also with a field trip up the river. The Committee also welcomed new Zone Manager Alan Kirk. The Committee made a submission to the Long Term Plan in favour of the

support for the Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust and in favour of the Regional Council retaining the collection of the TB rate.

Next meeting will include a workshop on reading financial documents and Investigations by the Resource Use Department.


Stephanie O’Sullivan announced her resignation from her role at Raukawa Charitable Trust, which she represented on the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee, thereby resigning from her position as Chairperson on the Committee.

The Chair of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee thanked Stephanie for her contribution to the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee over the past ten years, and as chairperson since 2011. It was noted through a number of committees as well as the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee that she was well respected and will be missed. The Upper Waikato is better resourced as a result of her hard work and efforts for the area.

Cr P Buckley moved / Cr S Husband seconded

ICM15/28 RESOLVED THAT the Integrated Catchment Management Committee would like to acknowledge Stephanie O’Sullivan for the hard work and dedication she has shown to catchment management in her tenure, and wish her well in her new role.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/28) S O’Sullivan moved / S Yerex seconded

ICM15/29 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee meeting held on 4 March 2015 (Doc # 3302427) be received.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/29) West Coast Catchment Committee File: 03 02 38 (Agenda Item 10.6) Doc # 3306077 Presented by the West Coast Catchment Committee Chairperson Mike Moss the Committee were provided with the minutes from the meeting 13 March 2015. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: The Committee received a very informative presentation from Patrick Lynch

the Manager of Investigations and Incident Response which allowed the Committee to see things from another perspective than what is portrayed in the media.

A decision has been made by the Committee to retain their original request to the Ministry of Primary Industries Hill Country Erosion fund, after a request to scale back their funding application due to pressure on the fund.

Awaiting extra staffing in the Zone to utilise funding from the Department of Conservation Biodiversity Condition Fund.

Made a submission to the Council Long Term Plan in support of Council retaining the collection of the TB rate.

Apologies tendered for the June meeting of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee.

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 49 Report of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee 16 April 2015 – page 11 ICM15/30 RESOLVED

THAT the report of the West Coast Catchment Committee meeting held on 13 March 2015 (Doc #3306077) be received, and 1) the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2) the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted

RECOMMENDED 1. THAT the West Coast Catchment Committee supports Chief

Executive Submission to the Councils Long Term Plan to offset the targeted zone rate using operational reserve and external revenue funding.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/30) Lower Waikato Catchment Committee File: 03 02 36 (Agenda Item 10.7) Doc # 3314754 Presented by the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee Chairperson Malcolm Lumsden the Committee were provided with the minutes from the meeting 18 March 2015. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: Finances were discussed at the meeting and the Chairman foreshadowed

an increase in debt from $4 million to around $13 million. The recommendation to extend the time for the Licensing fees is to look at

a more commercial structure for the process. The aim of extending it to three years would be to save staff costs and time and save money over the longer term.

Some assets need to be reclassified but the bulk of expenditure is because they were installed such a long time ago and are in need of upgrading now.

The committee feel it may be time to review funding policy to determine if still appropriate.

The Class five banks are all to be tidied up. M Lumsden moved/Cr P Buckley seconded

ICM15/31 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee meeting held on 18 March 2015 (Doc #3314754) be received, and 1) the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2) the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted

RECOMMENDED

1. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee supports the additional increase in direct cost expenditure of $400,000 for financial year 2014/15 associated with this S128 Consent review.

2. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee recommends to

Council that a provision of an additional $60,000 is made in the 2014/15 Lower Waikato capital renewals budget to fund the investigation and design of Orchard Road pump station.


Report of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee 16 April 2015 – page 12

3. THAT a provision of an additional $85,000 be made in the 2014/15 Lower Waikato capital renewals budget to fund the construction of the Aka Aka Otaua stopbank renewal works at Muir Road.

4. THAT a provision of $200,000 is made in the 2015/16 year of the 2015

LTP to purchase an additional gearbox for the Motukaraka screw pump with 75% of the cost provided by the drainage area beneficiaries and 25% of the cost provided by Waikato Regional Council as per capital new works funding policy.

5. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee recommend to the

Integrated Catchment Committee that all Lower Waikato Zone licence fees for the year commencing 1 June 2015 be set at 9% below the levels of the previous year.

6. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee request that staff

provide a report to its September 2015 meeting with an issues and options paper on the Annual Licence Fee Policy for consideration as part of the Annual Plan process.

7. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee endorses Council‘s

recommendation (November 2014 Integrated Catchment Committee Meeting) to increase the capital renewals budget from $550,000 to $750,000 (for each year 2015/16 to 2019/20) to support the agreed stopbank prioritisation programme for the 2015-25 Long Term Plan.

8. THAT this change to the draft 2015-25 Long Term Plan budget be

reflected in the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee submission to Council to include that change ($200,000 increase for years 2015/16 to 2019/20) for capital renewals programme, supported by Council staff through a Chief Executive Submission.

9. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee recommends to

Council that funding for biodiversity is inflation proofed.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/31) Waihou Piako Catchment Committee File: 03 02 37 (Agenda Item 10.8) Doc # 3344706 Presented by the Waihou Piako Catchment Committee Chairperson Robert Hicks the Committee were provided with the minutes from the meeting 19 March 2015. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: Are awaiting the appointment of a new Zone Manager with particular skills

in project management and budget oversight. Kaiaua Miranda consultation has been postponed. The Committee has

proposed to establish a care group to facilitate community thinking. The Committee has completed a Long Term Plan submission with relation

to the Council retaining the TB rate collection. Next meeting of the Committee will be a field trip. Muggeridges project meeting will be held Thursday seeking land owner

input and support for the project.


The Committee have requested to have sign off on final conditions for the cycleway and stop banks.

The Ryans Block Forestry has harvested over the past two financial years and has made a $120,000 gross profit. There will be better returns in the coming financial year as there has been no further substantial outlay in infrastructure as there was in the first year.

Typographical errors on pages 123 and 124 (Page one and two of the Waihou Piako Catchment Committee minutes) are to be corrected, clarifying who was confirmed in attendance and who put in apologies.

R Hicks moved/ S Yerex seconded

ICM15/32 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Waihou Piako Catchment Committee meeting held on 19 March 2015 (Doc #3344706) be received.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/32) Drainage Advisory Subcommittee Meetings December 2014 to March 2015 (Agenda Item 11) Aka Aka Otaua Drainage Advisory Subcommittee File: 03 02 04 (Agenda Item 11.1) Doc # 3291208, 3305062 This item was taken as read. The Committee considered reports of meetings of the Aka Aka Otaua Drainage Advisory Subcommittee held on 12 December 2014 and 13 February 2015. Cr P Buckley moved / Cr S Husband seconded

ICM15/33 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Aka-Aka Otaua Drainage Committee meeting held on 12 December 2014 and 13 February 2015 (Doc #3291208 and 3305062) be received, and 1) the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2) the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted

RECOMMENDED THAT The Aka-Aka Otaua Drainage Committee supports the proposal for the Waikato Regional Council to review the Waikato Regional Plan, requesting that land drainage works activities and erosion control be a permitted activity as contained in the Waikato District Council Plan.


Waikato Central Drainage Advisory Subcommittee File: 03 02 17 (Agenda Item 11.2) Doc # 3316938 This item was taken as read.


Cr S Husband moved/ Cr P Buckley seconded

ICM15/34 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Waikato Central Drainage Advisory Subcommittee meeting held on 20 March 2015 (Doc # 3316938) be received, and 1) the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2) the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted

RECOMMENDED 1. THAT the amendments to the drainage networks at Topham Drain in

Waitakaruru Subdivision and Retention drain in Rotomanuka subdivision as identified in the table below be recommended for approval by Council.

2. THAT the amendment to the Riddell Drain at Komakorau Subdivision,

pending the agreement of the landowner, be recommended for approval

Subdivision

Location / Drain

Length Drain to be Shortened (m)

Reason

Waitakaruru Topham drain L100.024

620 Lansdaal now owns all surrounding properties.

Rotomanuka Retention Drain

380 Shorten drain due to Singhs purchase of O’Halloran property.

Komakorau Riddell drain L320.009

460 Shorten to property boundary

3. THAT the Waikato Central Drainage Advisory Subcommittee approve

in principle the master drainage plan for the Ruakura Project subject to ongoing Waikato Regional Council technical review and detailed approval in stages by the Waikato Central Drainage Advisory Subcommittee and Regulatory Use Directorate as per legal requirements and standard procedures.

4. THAT this Subcommittee endorse the current Level of Service for land drainage.

5. THAT this Subcommittee approve the proposed rates changes for inclusion in the 2015 to 2025 Long Term Plan.



Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 53 Report of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee 16 April 2015 – page 15 ICM15/35 Resolution to Exclude the Public

(Agenda Item 12)

Cr S Husband moved/ S Yerex seconded

RESOLVED THAT in accordance with the provisions of Standing Orders NZS9202:2003 Appendix A & B (P40/42) and Section 48 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, the public be excluded from the following part/s of the proceedings of the meeting. The general subject of each matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter and the specific grounds under Section 48(1) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows:

Item No.

Item Name and general subject of each matter to be considered

Reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter


13 Public Excluded minutes Integrated Catchment Management Committee meeting 12 February 2015

Good reason to withhold exists under section 7

Section 48(1)(a)

14 Public Excluded minutes of the Coromandel Catchment Committee Subcommittee meeting 17 February 2015


Section 48(1)(a)

15 Public Excluded minutes of the Waikato Central Drainage Subcommittee 20 March 2015


Section 48(1)(a)

This resolution is made in reliance on Section 48(1)(a) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 and the particular interest or interests protected by Section 6 or Section 7 of that Act which would be prejudiced by the holding of the whole or relevant part of the proceedings of the meeting in public are as follows: Item No. Reason/s for withholding official information Section/s 13, 15 Protect the privacy of natural persons S7 (2) (a) 14 Protection of information which is subject to an obligation

of confidence S7 (d) (i)


The meeting moved to Public Excluded 12.18pm. Return to Open Meeting 12.19pm. Meeting closed 12.19pm. Doc # 3352771

* * * * *


Return to the report of Council meeting dated 30 April 2015 Report of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee 16 April 2015

Cr Husband moved/Cr Buckley seconded.

WRC15/154 1. THAT the report of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee held 16 April 2015 be received.

2. THAT the decisions in Section A of the report be noted. 3. THAT the recommendations contained in Section B of the report be

approved: Graham’s Creek – Final Design and Rating Classification Changes THAT the proposed rating classification changes be endorsed. Shallow Lakes Management Plan THAT the Shallow Lakes Management Plan (Doc#2365066 and #2256414) be adopted, with the correction noted. Coromandel Catchment Committee 1. THAT staff consult with ratepayers in the Tapu Stream maintenance

area on reducing the stream maintenance programme and associated annual rate requirement.

2. THAT the Coromandel Catchment Committee requests that the

Integrated Catchment Management Committee support the urgent actioning of amendments to the Waikato Regional Council Regional Coastal Plan and that priority is given to the removal of the protected status of mangroves (Doc # 3288364).

3. THAT the Coromandel Catchment Committee request for its further consideration a report from staff detailing the comparative application of council rating and funding policies in respect of the following major regional assets and activities: Lake Taupo water quality improvement, Cambridge bicycle velodrome, Maungatautari Ecological Island Trust, and Coromandel harbours, catchments and CMA.

4. THAT the Coromandel Catchment Committee request council to explore the potential costs and benefits of bulk purchase of Goodnature A12 and A24 traps and other efficient traps, with the intention of making these traps available to individual landowners for purchase at council’s cost.

Waipa Catchment Committee 3. THAT the Waipa Catchment Committee moved that the level of

funding and funding policy to the Waipa Catchment Plan is endorsed by the Committee and further this endorsement is promoted to Council by way of submission to be signed by the Deputy Chair and Seconder of this motion.

4. THAT the Waipa Catchment Committee endorse the Waipa Catchment Plan Branding as indicated by staff on 18 February 2015 within Presentation Doc # 3289803.


Lake Taupo Catchment Committee THAT the Committee recommends that the requirement to review the Lake Taupo foreshore erosion funding policy be deferred until there is a substantive reason for changing from the current funding splits or that a decision is made to formally review the Lake Taupo Erosion and Flood Strategy, Project Watershed or other related policy. West Coast Catchment Committee THAT the West Coast Catchment Committee supports Chief Executive Submission to the Councils Long Term Plan to offset the targeted zone rate using operational reserve and external revenue funding.

Lower Waikato Catchment Committee 10. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee supports the

additional increase in direct cost expenditure of $400,000 for financial year 2014/15 associated with this S128 Consent review.

11. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee recommends to Council that a provision of an additional $60,000 is made in the 2014/15 Lower Waikato capital renewals budget to fund the investigation and design of Orchard Road pump station.

12. THAT a provision of an additional $85,000 be made in the 2014/15 Lower Waikato capital renewals budget to fund the construction of the Aka Aka Otaua stopbank renewal works at Muir Road.

13. THAT a provision of $200,000 is made in the 2015/16 year of the 2015 LTP to purchase an additional gearbox for the Motukaraka screw pump with 75% of the cost provided by the drainage area beneficiaries and 25% of the cost provided by Waikato Regional Council as per capital new works funding policy.

14. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee recommend to the Integrated Catchment Committee that all Lower Waikato Zone licence fees for the year commencing 1 June 2015 be set at 9% below the levels of the previous year.

15. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee request that staff provide a report to its September 2015 meeting with an issues and options paper on the Annual Licence Fee Policy for consideration as part of the Annual Plan process. 16. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee endorses Council‘s recommendation (November 2014 Integrated Catchment Committee Meeting) to increase the capital renewals budget from $550,000 to $750,000 (for each year 2015/16 to 2019/20) to support the agreed stopbank prioritisation programme for the 2015-25 Long Term Plan.

17. THAT this change to the draft 2015-25 Long Term Plan budget be reflected in the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee submission to Council to include that change ($200,000 increase for years 2015/16 to 2019/20) for capital renewals programme, supported by Council staff through a Chief Executive Submission.

18. THAT the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee recommends to Council that funding for biodiversity is inflation proofed.

Aka Aka Otaua Drainage Advisory Subcommittee THAT The Aka-Aka Otaua Drainage Committee supports the proposal for the Waikato Regional Council to review the Waikato Regional Plan, requesting that land drainage works activities and erosion control be a permitted activity as contained in the Waikato District Council Plan. Waikato Central Drainage Advisory Subcommittee


6. THAT the amendments to the drainage networks at Topham Drain in Waitakaruru Subdivision and Retention drain in Rotomanuka subdivision as identified in the table below be recommended for approval by Council.

7. THAT the amendment to the Riddell Drain at Komakorau Subdivision, pending the agreement of the landowner, be recommended for approval

Subdivision

Location / Drain

Length Drain to be Shortened (m)

Reason

Waitakaruru Topham drain L100.024

620 Lansdaal now owns all surrounding properties.

Rotomanuka Retention Drain

380 Shorten drain due to Singhs purchase of O’Halloran property.

Komakorau Riddell drain L320.009

460 Shorten to property boundary

8. THAT the Waikato Central Drainage Advisory Subcommittee approve

in principle the master drainage plan for the Ruakura Project subject to ongoing Waikato Regional Council technical review and detailed approval in stages by the Waikato Central Drainage Advisory Subcommittee and Regulatory Use Directorate as per legal requirements and standard procedures.

9. THAT this Subcommittee endorse the current Level of Service for land drainage.

10. THAT this Subcommittee approve the proposed rates changes for inclusion in the 2015 to 2025 Long Term Plan.


Regional Transport Committee – 7 April 2015

File: 03 04 11 (Agenda Item #4.8.1) Docs#3361832 Cr Vercoe presented the following report to Council of the Regional Transport Committee dated 7 April 2015.


REGIONAL TRANSPORT COMMITTEE Report of the Regional Transport Committee of the Waikato Regional Council held in the Council Chamber, Waikato Regional Council Office, 401 Grey Street Hamilton East at 9.30 am on Monday, 7 April 2015 PRESENT: Waikato Regional Council

Cr H Vercoe (Chair), Cr K White (Deputy Chair), Paula Southgate (Ex Officio)

Hamilton City Council Cr L Tooman

Hauraki District Council Mayor J Tregidga

Matamata District Council Mayor J Barnes

Otorohanga District Council Mayor M Baxter

Taupo District Council B Hickling

Thames-Coromandel District Council Cr P French

Waikato District Council Mayor A Sanson

Waitomo District Council Cr P Brodie

New Zealand Transport Agency HW Wilson

IN ATTENDANCE: Access and Mobility Representative

Gerri Pomeroy David Bennett (Member of Parliament)

STAFF:

Director Science and Strategy (T May), Senior Policy Advisor (G Morton), Democracy Advisor (G Cannon)

APOLOGIES: Cr W Machen /alt Mayor N Sinclair (South Waikato District Council) Cr G Webber (Waipa District Council)

NON-ATTENDANCE: Waikato Region Road Policing Officer Freda Grace

Accepted Confirmation of Agenda

(Agenda Item 1)

Harry Wilson moved/Cr M Baxter seconded RTC15/12 RESOLVED

THAT the agenda of the Regional Transport Committee of 7 April 2015 be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (RTC15/12)

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 58 Report of the Regional Transport Committee 7 April 2015 – page 2 Disclosures of Interest

(Agenda Item 2) There were no disclosures of interest.


Confirmation of Minutes 2 March 2015 (Agenda Item 3)

The Chair noted that the minutes of the meeting held on 2 March 2015 had been circulated to members.

Cr P French moved/Mayor J Barnes seconded RTC15/13 RESOLVED

THAT the minutes of the Waikato Regional Transport Committee meeting of 2 March 2015 (Doc # 3315676) be confirmed as a true and correct record.


SECTION B: (FOR RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL)

Regional Land Transport Hearing Committee Decisions Report and Recommended Final Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045 (Agenda Item 4)

Presented by Greg Morton (Senior Policy Advisor) this allowed the Regional Land Transport Plan Hearing Committee to report to the Regional Transport Committee on the Regional Land Transport Plan hearings and deliberations and to recommend the final Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045 (RLTP 2015-45) to the Regional Transport Committee for approval and recommendation by the Committee to the Waikato Regional Council for adoption. The report was supported by a power point presentation (Doc # 3325329). In speaking to the report and presentation, the following points were noted specifically: The Committee was provided with an overview of the statutory processes

engaged in leading up to the adoption of the RLTP 2015-45. The key additions made to the Activities Tables since the hearings were

highlighted. Transport planning in North Waikato was specifically identified as an emerging issue for the region.

In terms of the proposed State High improvements, a national moderation process was still underway. A final outcome was expected in late June 2015.

The development of the Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) had been run in parallel to the development RLTP 2015-45. One of the key submission matters considered by the Regional Public Transport Plan Hearings Committee was the proposal for a new a new business case to

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 59 Report of the Regional Transport Committee 7 April 2015 – page 3

investigate public transport options for North Waikato. Auckland Transport would be invited to participate as part of that process. It was also proposed that a submission would be made to the Waikato District Council’s draft Long Term Plan to ensure that this activity was acknowledged.

Further changes to the programme of activities were possible as a result of long term planning decisions across the region. A recommendation that these be approved by the Chair was proposed.

During questions, answers and associated discussions, the following points were raised and/or noted: Cr P Southgate was a member of the Upper North Island Strategic Alliance

(UNISA). She noted that transport issues arising from the growth in South Auckland and North Waikato was an ongoing conversation and asked how the RLTP 2015-45 recognised that issue. It was considered that this issue had been recognised well within the RLTP.

The importance of protecting the investment that the Waikato region had made in the in the Waikato Expressway was noted. The Chair tabled a document showing “Projected Population Growth for Auckland Local Board Areas” and raised his concern that if growth occurred as projected in the document; the investment that the region had made in land transport was at significant risk. Increased housing and commuters living close to the expressway in North Waikato and southern Auckland could negate the ability of the expressway to ensure efficient travel times between Hamilton and Auckland. The Chair noted Auckland’s intention to encourage industry development in the southern Auckland area to ensure that they were relatively self-contained in terms of commuters travelling to and from work to hopefully mitigate this issue.

There was discussion about rail being used as a means of public transport between the regions. Papakura was identified as being the southernmost point of rail electrification for Auckland passenger rail services which will continue through to Newmarket and then Britomart. A diesel rail service is planned to run between Papakura and Pukekohe to connect with the Papakura electric service. Further financial resources were required to extend this rail electrification further south.

NZTA commended the Committee and Staff on a well positioned, well constructed strategy led plan. The total National Land Transport Fund (NLTF) 2015-18 was approximately 9 billion dollars. Of this, $3 billion was allocated to roading improvements, $3 billion to maintenance and then $3 billion to remaining activities including policing, cycling, walking, public transport and transport planning. Roading improvements were an area where the Waikato region had really ‘stepped up”. A large proportion of the $3 billion of the NLTF allocated to new roading improvements was being spent in the Waikato (approximately 40 per cent), with a focus on the expressway. It was noted that this would affect co-investment funding available for other roading improvements.

Mayor J Tregidga moved/Mayor J Barnes seconded RTC15/14 RESOLVED that the Committee:

1. Receive the report Regional Land Transport Plan Hearing

Committee Decisions Report and Recommended Final Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045 (Doc# 3307473 dated 16 March 2015).

2. Receive the:


Report of the Regional Transport Committee 7 April 2015 – page 4

Minutes of Hearings of the RLTP Hearings Committee (Doc# 3294022)

Minutes of Deliberations of the RLTP Hearings Committee (Doc# 3303691)

RLTP Hearings Committee Decisions Report (Doc# 3302240 – attached as a separate document)

Strike-Out version of the RLTP incorporating the Hearing Committee Decisions (attached as a separate document)

Clean Version of the RLTP Incorporating the Hearings Committee Decisions (attached as a separate document).

3. Approve: The RLTP Hearing Committee Decisions Report (Doc #3302240 –

attached as a separate document) The Clean version of the Regional Land Transport Plan (attached as

a separate document), noting that correction to any minor typographical errors and renumbering of policies and actions is to be completed for publication purposes following approval of the RLTP by the RTC.

4. Recommend the Hearing Committee Decisions Report (Doc #3302240 –

attached as a separate document) and the final Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045 (attached as a separate document) to Waikato Regional Council for adoption.

5. Delegate to the Chair of the Regional Transport Committee, up until 20 April 2015, authority to approve final amendments to Appendix 7 activity tables, and associated amendments to Appendix 8, section 5 and section 6 to reflect potential amendments made as a result of approved organisations’ draft long term plan decisions.



Regional Safety Monitor (Agenda Item 5) Presented by Junine Stewart (NZTA) and Marceli Davison (NZTA) this report provided an update to the Regional Transport Committee on road safety issues, trends and current news. NZTA had been asked to report to the Committee on issues regarding overseas visiting drivers. A power point presentation accompanied the report (Doc # 3322686). An email was also tabled regarding the volume of drivers undertaking practical driving tests and the associated timeframes (Doc # 3341468). In speaking to the report and presentation and tabled document, the following points were noted specifically: NZTA were taking steps to ensure the safety of visiting drivers. Fatal accidents involving visiting drivers were statistically low, with only five

percent of fatal crashes within the Waikato region involving visiting drivers. However, media attention was high.

Visiting drivers could drive in New Zealand on an overseas licence for up to a year.

The power point presentation identified: o The driver licence types involved in fatal and serious injuries; and o The number and percentages of overseas drivers involved in serious

and fatal crashes over the last 10 years.


NZTA’s Visiting Drivers Signature Project was outlined for the Committee. The purpose of the project was to deliver additional road safety initiatives targeting key risk factors including geographic areas identified as being of higher risk such as the Queenstown Lakes area. The project was tightly scoped, involved multiple agencies and had a focus on particular areas of concern and included the development of a new website www.drivesafe.org.nz with a focus on visiting drivers. If the project proved successful, it would be replicated nationally.

The delays in being able to sit practical driver’s licensing tests within the region were discussed. There were a number of factors involved in the delays, including:

o New legislation that allowed drivers to hold restricted licences for 5 years only.

o A transition to new testing providers. o Engaging new staff to cope with the back log created by the change

in legislation; and o Identifying and securing new testing sites.

During questions, answers and associated discussions, the Committee raised and/or noted the following points: The Committee queried whether the use of directional arrows was assisting

visiting drivers. NZTA advised that they were a new tool and it would take some time to pull that information together. Anecdotally, the arrows seemed to be a good visual reminder. However, the number of fatal accidents involving visiting drivers was so low it was hard to draw together conclusions from the available data. It was also hard to distinguish the cause of the accident from other driver behaviours.

The Committee asked whether the markers and signs used in New Zealand were being adequately explained to visiting drivers. The Committee was advised that this information was provided to travellers by way of a pre-travel information, an in flight video presentation and through the NZTA’s “Drive Safe’ website. The ability to enforce engagement with this information and behaviour change of visiting drivers as a result was limited.

The Committee queried whether there was a mechanism to allow drivers who were seeking licensing for employment purposes to be prioritised. The response was that drivers were contacting testing sites around the region to identify sites with the shortest wait times. NZTA advised that new staff were being trained to alleviate wait times.

Mayor J Barnes moved/H Wilson seconded RTC15/15 RESOLVED

1. THAT the report “Regional Road Safety Monitor” dated 20 March 2015 (Doc # 3316640) be received for information.



One Network Roading Classification (ONRC) – NZ Transport Agency (Agenda Item 6)

Previously staff and the NZTA had briefed the Regional Transport Committee on progress on the development of a single national roading classification. Presented by Andrew McKillop (NZTA Planning and Investment Manager) the purpose of the report was to provide the Committee with an update on the progress that had been made to date in the development of the One Network Roading Classification (ONRC) and key considerations regarding transition planning. In speaking to the report, the following points were highlighted.

The development of the ONRC was a good news story overall with the Waikato region playing a key role in supporting its development and implementation e.g. through the Road Asset Technical Accord (RATA).

There had been some great changes and improvements in the costs of maintaining roads since 2009. People are actively engaging in the conversation as greater value for money was being achieved.

The classification of roads within the RLTP was an excellent planning tool and helped to ensure that appropriate trade offs were made to effectively apply spending.

The underlying principle of the ONRC was to make sure that customer’s needs were being met in the best way possible.

A lot of work would be done over the next 3 years as the transition plan was being worked on. This was targeted from completion in December 2017. There was a need to identify what needed to be achieved and set some milestones for this.

During questions, answers and associated discussions, the following points were raised or noted:

The Committee asked how to reduce the classification of a road where it exceeded the required level of service. This would be done over time through the use of maintenance contracts.

It was noted that rural Councils faced a particular challenge. Farmers paid a greater proportion of rates and would have associated expectations regarding the maintenance and improvement of roads within rural areas. However, rural roads of low volume had a relatively low priority within the ONRC. This may have implications for future rating approaches. There was a lot of work to be done to educate those residing in rural areas. The NZTA advised that it was developing a tool kit for Roading Managers within the Waikato area to help make communication about the ONRC easier.

The Committee queried whether there would be a reduction in one lane bridges. It was advised that it would be a question of whether there was a need to replace them and whether this was a good investment.

The primary determinant for roading classification was vehicle volumes. If vehicle volumes decreased, there would be less room for investment.

All of the roads within the Waikato region had received a classification. The issue of sealing roads was discussed. In many cases, this was not

considered to be a wise use of funds. Again, this raised the importance of educating the public about ONRC and how it would affect investment.

The Committee asked how it should go about identifying the classification of a particular road for the general public. This was a difficult question as the public was obtaining information from a number of different media sources. This would be an important future conversation. New ways of communicating with the public would need to be identified regarding road classifications and associated levels of service and related benefits.


Mayor A Sanson moved/Mayor J Tregidga seconded

RTC15/16 RESOLVED THAT the report “One Network Roading Classification (ONRC) – NZ Transport Agency” dated 19 March 2015 (Doc # 3318023) be received for information.


Transport Planning and Projects Update April 2015 (Agenda Item 7)

Presented by Greg Morton, (Senior Policy Advisor), this report provided the Regional Transport Committee with an update on current regional transport plans and projects as at 7 April 2015. A number of transport projects were being undertaken as part of the Regional Land Transport Strategy 2011-41 Implementation Programme. The report provides an update on these projects together with other national and regional transport matters of interest. The report was supported by a power point presentation. In speaking to the report and presentation, the following matters were specifically highlighted:

A meeting for the SH1/29-ECMT Working Group had been held in March. The Hamilton-Tauranga Strategic case was moving forward to a ‘programme business case’, which was a technical phase of NZTA’s business case approach. The next step would be for key representatives to take part in a workshop process that would be formally facilitated to determine possible intervention options based upon the agreed identified problems and benefits.

The RPTP had been formally adopted and became operative on the 28 April 2015.

Key priorities for the implementation of the RLTP were identified in the power point presentation, together with associated time frames.

The Committee had received an invitation from the Taranaki Regional Council to take part in a two day field trip on 15-16 June 2015. The Chair noted that an email would be sent out to members confirming dates and details.

Cr H Vercoe moved/Mayor J Barnes seconded

RTC15/17 RESOLVED: THAT the Regional Transport Committee thank the Taranaki Regional Council and formally accept the invitation to take part in a field trip on the dated proposed and note that RTC members’ organisations would be required to cover the cost of their members accommodation.


One of the key implementation priorities for the RTC was the

development of a strategic case to determine the Waikato’s land transport priorities following the completion of the Waikato Expressway in 2020. The power point presentation outlined the proposed criteria that would be used to determine what the focus areas and priorities would be.


Mayor M Baxter moved/Cr L Tooman seconded RTC15/18 RESOLVED

THAT the report “Transport Planning Projects Update Apri1 2015” dated 18 March 2015(Doc # 3308820) be received for information.


Regional Transport Issues Forum (Agenda Item 8)

This report provided the Regional Transport Committee with an opportunity to raise and discuss regional transport issues in an open forum.

The possibility of starting future meetings at 10.00am was discussed. It was agreed that this would be decided by the Chair on a meeting by meeting basis.

Cr H Vercoe moved/Mayor J Barnes seconded

RTC15/19 RESOLVED THAT the report “Regional Transport Issues Forum” dated 16 March 2015 (Doc # 3307677) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (RTC15/19) Meeting closed at 11.33 am Docs # 3361832

* * * * *

Return to the report of Council meeting dated 30 April 2015 Report of the Regional Transport Committee 7 April 2015

During discussion, two matters were discussed: Cr White commented on Regional Safety Monitoring, and whether more

work could be done to improve the safety measures in place for foreign drivers. She undertook to raise the matter at the next Regional Transport Committee meeting.

The appropriateness of ex-oficio membership on the Regional Transport Committee was queried, given that the Committee had been established in accordance with the provisions of the Land Transport Management Act 2003. Staff undertook to follow up on the matter.


Cr Vercoe moved/Cr White seconded.

WRC15/155 1. THAT the report of the Regional Transport Committee held 7 April 2015 be received.



Adoption of Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045 File: 21 20 81E (Agenda Item #4.8.2) Docs#3361832 Cr Vercoe presented the report which sought the adoption of the Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045 (“the Plan”) as approved by the Waikato Regional Transport Committee. The Plan gained general support, with the only comment limited to the submission process. Staff confirmed that response to submissions were to be sent the following week. Cr Vercoe moved/Cr White seconded.

WRC15/156 1. THAT the report “Adoption of Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045” (Doc# 3326030 dated 21 April 2015) be received.

2. THAT the Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan Hearing

Committee Decisions Report (attached as a separate document) (Doc# 3302240) be received and adopted.

3. THAT the Strike-out version of the Draft Waikato Regional Land

Transport Plan 2015-2045 (attached as a separate document) (Doc #3328960) be received.

4. THAT the final Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045

(Doc# 3362086) be adopted. 5. THAT the final Waikato Regional Land Transport Plan 2015-2045

be forwarded to the NZ Transport Agency by 30 April 2015.


External Committee reports Councillors reported External Committee attendance as follows: Cr Kneebone attended a meeting of the Maungatautari Ecological Island

Trust. Cr Hennebry attended two meetings of the Animal Ethics Committee. Crs Bramley and A Livingston attended the launch of the Raukawa

Environmental Management Plan. Crs Buckley and Southgate attended a meeting of Future Proof. Crs Buckley, Hennebry and Southgate attended a Rules Reduction

Taskforce meeting.


Cr Southgate moved/Cr Buckley seconded.

WRC15/157 THAT the verbal updates provided on External Committee attendance be received.


Report of Routine Documents Executed Under Seal (Agenda Item #) Cr L Livingston moved/Cr Husband seconded.

WRC15/158 THAT the following routine documents executed under the Common Seal for the period 20 March to 23 April 2015 be received for information: Drainage Easement in Gross of right to drain water over the land had shown B on DP 480627 between William David Burton and Kathleen Ann Burton (grantor) and Waikato Regional Council (grantee) at 419 Tauwhere Road, Matangi (WRC1854). Section 245 (5) (b) Certificate Tairua Marina: Land reclamation (WRC1855). Release of Bond between Waikato Regional Council (Council), Rivelea Sands Ltd (Consent Holder) and Bank of New Zealand (Surety) (WRC1856).

The motion was put and carried (WRC15/158) With the agreement of the meeting items 6.4 “Hearing Processes – 2015/2025 draft Long Term Plan” and 6.5 “Local Government New Zealand Conference 2015” were taken as the next items of business.

Ordinary Business

File: 02 30 00 (Agenda Item #6)

Hearing processes -2015/2025 draft Long Term Plan File: 03 04 02 (Agenda Item #6.4) Docs#3317036 The Director – Community and Services (N Williams) presented the report which outlined the general hearing procedures and other principles that apply when council and/or any council hearing panel was operating in a statutory public hearing regime, and sought council endorsement for the 2015-2025 draft Long Term Plan hearing processes. Cr Buckley moved/Cr Husband seconded.

WRC15/159 1. THAT the report “Hearing processes – 2015/2025 draft Long Term Plan” (Doc #3317036 dated 20 April 2015) be received, and

2. THAT council endorse the Hearing Procedures [attached as Appendix A]

and Other Principles [attached as Appendix B] for the conduct of the 2015/2025 draft Long Term Plan statutory public hearing processes.


Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 67 Local Government New Zealand Conference 2015

File: 02 10 45 (Agenda Item #6.5) Docs#3361078 By way of background information it was reported that Waikato Regional Council was entitled to have not more than four delegates at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ). That did not however affect the number of councillors able to attend the 2015 LGNZ Conference. At its meeting held in March, council confirmed the Chair (Cr PA Southgate) as its presiding delegate, and encouraged all interest councillors to attend the conference. The Director – Community and Services (N Williams) presented the report which provided information requested by councillors at the council meeting held in March and sought confirmation of attendance at the conference and representation at the AGM of LGNZ. Cr Buckley moved/Cr Southgate seconded.

WRC15/160 1. That the report “Local Government New Zealand Conference 2015” (Doc #3361078 dated 17 April 2015) be received, and

2. That council confirms the following councillors to attend the 2015

LGNZ Conference: Mahuta L Livingston A Livingston White

3. That council confirms the following councillors as its delegates to

the Annual General Meeting of LGNZ: Mahuta L Livingston White

4. That council confirms Councillor Mahuta as its alternate presiding

delegate.

The motion was put and carried (WRC15/160) The meeting adjourned at 12.20pm. During the break, awards were presented to the Dr Stella Frances Scholarship and Waikato Regional Council Prize in Water Science recipients. The meeting resumed at 12.55pm.

Integrated Catchment Management Committee – 16 April 2015 File: 03 04 08 (Agenda Item #03 04 08) Docs#3352771 Earlier in the meeting a procedural motion adjourned debate on a proposal to revisit a defeated recommendation from the Coromandel Catchment Committee until after the lunch break, to allow sufficient time for Cr Husband to craft an appropriate recommendation, for consideration. Cr Husband moved/Cr Graf seconded.

WRC15/161 THAT research into the application of bounties for possums be collated by the 1080 working group for council consideration.


Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 68 With the agreement of the meeting item 6.3 “Appointment of TB Free Waikato representative” was taken as the next item of business.

Appointment of TB Free Waikato representative File: 03 02 00 (Agenda Item #6.3) Docs#3361376 The Director – Community and Services (N Williams) presented the report which sought to accept the resignation of Councillor Stuart Husband as Waikato Regional Council’s representative on the TB Free Waikato Committee, and appoint a replacement representative. The Chair called for nominations. Cr Graf was nominated by Cr Stark, and the nomination was seconded by Cr White. There being no further nominations, the motion was put. Cr Stark moved/Cr White seconded.

WRC15/162 1. That the report ‘Appointment of TB Free Waikato representative’ (Doc#3361376 dated 16 April 2015) be received, and

2. That the resignation of Councillor Stuart Husband as Council’s

representative on the TB Free Waikato Committee be accepted.

3. That Cr Graf be appointed as the Council’s representative on the TB Free Waikato Committee.


Crs L Livingston and Southgate recorded their vote against the motion

Environment Canterbury Review File: 20 00 05 (Agenda Item #6.1) Docs#3358350 The Principal Strategic Advisor (U Trebilco) presented the report which sought to discuss government’s review of governance for Environment Canterbury (ECan) with a view to providing comment on the government’s proposal. By way of background information it was reported that when faced with a number of problems, the 14 elected ECan members had been replaced by 7 temporary government appointed members (in 2010). The government recently released a discussion paper on past and potential future governance of ECan. Principle Strategic Advisor Urlwyn Trebilco presented a report which provided information on the government’s review of ECan and the proposal for a mix of elected and government-appointed members on its governing body after 2016. It was agreed that a Council submission on the proposal, was necessary and a number of issues were canvassed. During discussion it was acknowledged that appointed members may provide technical expertise and improve regional decision making; however, those views were balanced with concern for the loss of democracy and accountability, as well as concern that the model may be rolled out to other parts of New Zealand. Of the issues canvassed, the following, gained the support of Council: 1. Council acknowledges that the ECan Commissioners have been

successful during their term of governance.


2. Council considers that the issue of future governance of ECan is a significant matter that sets a new precedent for regional government in New Zealand. It may have repercussions for the future governance of other regions in the country.

3. Given the significance of this matter, a more comprehensive and transparent process of examining options needs to be undertaken, with greater opportunity for local government participation in the process.

4. Waikato Regional Council sees some benefit in the appointment of commissioners for their expertise in certain technical matters. However, there is a range of ways that may be suitable for selecting Commissioners that should be explored.

5. In principle, if a regional council has non-elected members, these should be appointed by the elected members of the council, to ensure that there is still some democratic accountability of non-elected members (that is, if the non-elected members perform badly, the elected members have some responsibility and accountability in the matter).

6. Continue with Commissioners at Environment Canterbury for a short period.

7. Amend the Local Electoral Act 2001 during 2016/17 to introduce an area weighting for determining regional council constituencies.

8. Undertake a full and substantial representation review, reviewing both the number of elected members and constituencies during 2017/18.

9. Return the council to full democracy as soon as possible. Staff undertook to draft the submission. Cr Stark moved/Cr Mahuta seconded.

WRC15/163 1. THAT the report ‘Environment Canterbury Review’ (Doc # 3358350) be received.

2. THAT a submission to the Ministry for the Environment on the report “Environment Canterbury Review – A discussion document” be drafted based on the discussion and comments identified by Council.


Amendment to the Membership Provisions of the Terms of Reference for the Waikato Plan Joint Committee File: 03 04 32 (Agenda Item 6.6) Docs#3363082 Council considered the report which sought an amendment to the membership provisions of the Terms of Reference of the Waikato Plan Joint Committee (the Joint Committee), as recommended by the Waikato Mayoral Forum. By way of background information it was reported that at its meeting held 20 April 2015, the Waikato Mayoral Forum recommended that the Mayors/Chair should be the first representatives from their respective councils on the Joint Committee. If adopted the decision would replace Waikato Regional Council’s current nominated first representative, Cr Simcock, to Cr Southgate. Discussion ensued. Council expressed its disappointment at the recommendation put forth by the Mayoral Forum. It was noted that Cr Simcock had been appointed by Council because he was considered to be the best candidate, given his background and experience at a regional and national


level, and the synergies with his role as the Chair of the Strategy and Policy Committee. Cr Simcock was praised for his contribution to the Waikato Plan. However, on the proviso that: Cr Simcock was comfortable and accepted the reasons supporting the

Mayoral Forums recommendation, and Cr Simcock be appointed as Council’s nominated alternate representative

to the Joint Committee, and Cr Mahuta (the current alternate member) did not object, and Cr Simcock would continue to be involved in the development of the

Waikato Plan, Council approved the recommendation. Cr Mahuta moved/Cr L Livingston seconded.

WRC15/164 1. That the report “Amendment to the Membership Provisions of the Terms of Reference for the Waikato Plan Joint Committee” (Doc #

3363082 dated 21 April 2015) be received. 2. That Waikato Regional Council notes the recommendation from the

Mayoral Forum meeting dated 20 April 2015: “that the Mayoral Forum agrees for the Mayors/Chair to be the first representative from their respective councils on the Joint Committee”.

3. That Waikato Regional Council approves the amended terms of

reference for the Waikato Plan Joint Committee stipulating that the first representative of the ten Local Government Members of the Waikato Plan Joint Committee be the Mayor or Chair of each of the constituent Local Authorities as outlined in the strike through version attached to this report.

4. That Chairperson Paula Southgate is nominated as the first

representative of the Waikato Regional Council on the Waikato Plan Joint Committee by providing written notice to the Joint Committee confirming the amended nomination.

5. That Councillor Bob Simcock is nominated as the alternate

member of the Waikato Regional Council on the Waikato Plan Joint Committee by providing written notice to the Joint Committee confirming the amended nomination.


Crs Husband and Vercoe out of meeting (1.45pm).

Submissions on 2015 – 2025 Draft Long Term Plans for Auckland Council, Thames-Coromandel District Council, Waipa District Council, South Waikato District Council, Waikato District Council and Taupo District Council File: 01 12 15S (Agenda Item #6.2) Docs#3363412 The Director – Community and Services (N Williams) presented the report which sought to retrospectively approve submissions on the 2015 – 2025 Draft Long Term Plan for Auckland Council, Thames-Coromandel District Council, Waipa District Council, South Waikato District Council, Waikato District Council and Taupo District Council.

Report of Council Meeting 30 April 2015 71 Cr Vercoe in meeting 1.50pm.

Council noted its concern and requested that if possible, retrospective approval be avoided. Staff acknowledged that retrospective approval was not ideal, however, noted that, because time did not allow, the submissions were drafted in line with Council policy, reviewed by Executive Leadership Team, emailed to constituent councillors for feedback and then submitted to meet the deadline. The current meeting was the Council’s opportunity to give retrospective approval, and add any additional comments to the submissions. The following additional comments were noted: Cr Stark expressed her opposition to the submission point to Waikato

District Council, seeking funding of $50,000 in 2016/17 to enable the development of a local indigenous biodiversity strategy for the Waikato district.

The submission to Auckland City outlined the cross boundary issues well, however, the recommendations to address the problem needed to be strengthened/clarified.

Hamilton City’s decision to replace the traditional hearings format with engagement sessions.

Cr L Livingston moved/Cr Mahuta seconded.

WRC15/165 1. THAT the report “Submissions on 2015 – 2025 Draft Long Term Plans to Auckland Council, Thames-Coromandel District Council, Waipa District Council, South Waikato District Council, Waikato District Council and Taupo District Council” (Doc #3363412 dated 21 April

2015) be received, and

2. THAT with the comments noted above, the council retrospectively approves the submissions to Auckland Council, Thames-Coromandel District Council, Waipa District Council, South Waikato District Council, Waikato District Council and Taupo District Council.


Cr Stark recorded her vote against the motion

Resolutions to Exclude the Public (Agenda Item #)

Cr L Livingston moved/Cr White seconded.

WRC15/166 THAT in accordance with the provisions of Standing Orders NZS 9202:2003

Incorporating Amendment No 1, Appendix A&B (p40/42) and Section 48 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, the public be excluded from the following part/s of the meeting: The general subject of each matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter and the specific grounds under Section 48(1) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows:

Item No.

Item Name and general subject of each matter to be considered

Reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter



8.1 Council Minutes 26 March 2015

Good reason(s) to withhold exist(s) under Section 7

Section 48 (1) (a)

8.2 Integrated Catchment Management Minutes 16 April 2015


Section 48 (1) (a)

8.3 CE Employment & Remuneration Committee 16 April 2015


Section 48 (1) (a)

8.4 Appointment of Electoral Officer


Section 48 (1) (a)

This resolution is made in reliance on Section 48(1)(a) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 and the particular interest or interests protected by Section 6 or Section 7 of that Act which would be prejudiced by the holding of the whole or relevant part of the proceedings of the meeting in public are as follows:

Item No Reason/s for withholding official information Section/s 8.1, 8.2, 8.3 Protection of privacy of natural persons S7 (a) 8.1 Prejudice commercial position S7 (b) (ii) 8.1, 8.4 Conduct of negotiations S7 (i) 8.2 Protection of information which is subject to an

obligation of confidence S7 (c) (i)


Return to Open Meeting 2.14pm.

Reported to Open Meeting During the public excluded section of the meeting, Council resolved that the following decisions be reported in Open Meeting: Integrated Catchment Management Committee Minutes 16 April 2015 – Public Excluded minutes of Waikato Central Drainage Advisory Subcommittee

THAT the Integrated Catchment Management committee consider the suitability Craig Graham as a representative for the North & South Mangawara Subdivision and make recommendation to Council as appropriate for filling the existing vacancy.

THAT the Integrated Catchment Management committee consider the suitability David Rawlence as a representative for the Rotokauri and Koromatua Subdivision and make recommendation to Council as appropriate for filling the existing vacancy.

THAT the subcommittee endorses the shifting of the Hopuhopu area in to the Ngaruawahia group for ratepayer representation.

Meeting closed 2.15pm.

_________________________ Chairperson

Doc #3387890


Appendix A

STATUTORY PLANNING HEARING PROCESS

HEARING PROCEDURES 1. Every person who has made a submission and stated that they wish to be heard, may speak either

personally or be represented by legal counsel or any other authorised representative. 2. If any person wishes to give their written or spoken evidence in Maori, Waikato Regional Council needs to

be informed of this at least five (5) working days before the hearing so that a qualified interpreter can be provided. Alternatively, an interpretation may be provided by the person giving the evidence at the hearing.

3. No cross examination is permitted. 4. Only the Chairperson or members of Council (the Hearing Committee) may ask questions of any person

appearing/making a statement during the course of the hearing. 5. The Chairperson of Council (the Hearing Committee) may recall any person who has made a statement

where considered appropriate to further clarify or elaborate on any matter raised in evidence. 6. The Chairperson of Council (the Hearing Committee) may, if it is considered that there is likely to be

excessive repetition, limit the circumstances in which parties that have the same interest or stance on an issue may speak or give evidence in support.

7. The hearings will be held in public except where Council (the Hearing Committee) determines that the

public should be excluded pursuant to one or more of the grounds specified in the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987.


Appendix B

2015-2025 Long Term Plan

OTHER PRINCIPLES 1. Full Council, as the entity required by legislation to adopt the 2015/2025 Long Term

Plan is bound by all statutory meeting rules and procedures, including Standing Orders NZS 9202:2003 (incorporating Amendment No 1), Section 82 Principles of Consultation and Section 83 Special Consultative Procedure of the Local Government Act 2002.

2. All Councillors will be required to attend all meetings and hear all evidence presented

in submissions prior to participation in the deliberations and preparation of recommendations for consideration/adoption by Council, unless: (a) they are required to attend a conflicting Waikato Regional Council or other high

priority representation commitment and have identified that commitment to Council prior to the commencement of the hearings, or

(b) are too ill to attend and have submitted an apology for that day/s. (c) their apology for absence for any other reason is accepted by the Chairperson.

Should any of (a), (b) or (c) apply the Councillor/s concerned will be provided with a copy of all written material presented by submitters at the hearing on that day/s and will have made themselves familiar with the material/issues raised prior to attending deliberations.

The normal statutory provisions regarding any conflict of interest situations apply.

3. Council will only hear submissions on the 2015/2025 Draft Long Term Plan from those

people who have requested to be heard and not subsequently withdrawn that request. 4. It is scheduled to undertake all hearings required for the 2015/2025 Draft Long Term

Plan between Monday 4 May and Friday 8 May 2015 with the actual number of days and locations/venues to be utilised to be determined by the number and location of the submitters. Deliberations on the submissions are currently scheduled for 25-29 May 2015; the number of days utilised is dependent on the number and/or scope of submissions/issues to be addressed.