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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 10.30 am on Thursday, 29 October 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 RM Simcock, Cr TM Stark, Cr GWH Vercoe, Cr KA White.

STAFF: Chief Executive (V Payne), Director Community & Services (N Williams), Director Science & Strategy (T May), Director Resource Use (C McLay), Acting Chief Financial Officer (J Becker), Acting Director Integrated Catchment Management (A Robinson), Team Leader Democracy Services (M Ahipene).

APOLOGIES: Nil Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 1) Cr Buckley moved/Cr Simcock seconded.

WRC15/397 THAT with the exclusion of item 4.7 and a change to the order of business, taking item 6.2 at the beginning of the meeting, the agenda of the meeting of the Waikato Regional Council of 29 October 2015, as circulated, be confirmed.

The motion was put and carried (WRC15/397) Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2) The Chair reminded Councillors of the legislative requirements of the Members’ Interest Act and called for disclosures of interest. There were no disclosures of interest noted. Ordinary Business Dealing with RMA non-compliance File: 56 01 01 (Agenda Item # 6.2) The Director Resource Use (C McLay) spoke to the report which presented the findings of the “Dealing with RMA non-compliance” reference group (“the reference group”) and sought a decision on how the council intended to respond to the recommendations of the reference group. He introduced Mr Tom Gilbert (Chair of the reference group) who was in attendance to present the findings report. By way of background information it was reported that the reference group had been set up as a result of discontent within certain sectors in the Waikato

Report of Council Meeting 29 October 2015 2

with regard to the council’s enforcement approach. Having reviewed the council’s enforcement practices the findings of the reference group confirmed that the criteria the council used when making decisions about what, if any, enforcement tool was deployed was in accordance best practice. During questions, answers and discussion it was noted that: Some level of discontent was an inevitable consequence when a

regulator exercised its statutory function to enforce the law. The public expected that the law be enforced in a consistent and

principled way. The implementation of robust processes would improve consistent

application of enforcement. The recommendations put forward by the reference group (outlined in part five of the findings report) suggested improvements related to evidence gathering, enforcement criteria, training and information sharing, process based issues, and policy based issues. Questions and answers indicated general support for the recommendations, with discussion limited to the policy based issues. The recommendation that Council adopt a formal enforcement policy in line with recommendations made by the Crown Law Office and Auditor-General, and that a good starting point for the drafting of such policy would be that recently adopted by the Kapiti Coast District Council, was discussed at length. The discussion focused on who would draft the enforcement policy, rather than the intention to adopt the policy. Cr Husband foreshadowed his intention to move a motion which sought councillor input in the drafting of an enforcement policy. Cr Southgate moved/Cr Simcock seconded

WRC15/398 1. THAT the report ‘Dealing with Resource Management Act non-compliance’ (Doc # 3588365 dated 19 October 2015) be received, and

2. That the attached report, titled “How We Deal with RMA Non-

Compliance Report - Waikato Regional Council” (Doc # 3561116) be received, and

3. That council accept the recommendations of the reference group

and authorise staff to implement their recommendations in accordance with the report’s conclusions.

The motion was put and carried (WRC15/398)

Council then turned its attention to the foreshadowed motion that sought councillor input in the drafting of an enforcement policy. Those speaking FOR the motion expressed the view that councillor input should be included in the drafting stage of the policy, whereas others preferred an approach where staff draft the policy, which would then be presented to Council for consideration. Cr Husband moved/Cr Graf seconded

WRC15/399 THAT three councillors be appointed to a working party to assist staff to draft the enforcement policy.



Having concluded discussion on that particular item of business, the Chair thanked Mr Gilbert and all of the reference group members for the professional and comprehensive way they undertook the review.

Crs Graf and Husband out of meeting (11.45am). Confirmation of Minutes Council – 30 September 2015 File: 03 04 02 (Agenda Item # 3.1) Cr Buckley moved/Cr Simcock seconded.

WRC15/400 THAT the Minutes of the Council Meeting of 30 September 2015 be confirmed as a true and correct record.


Crs Graf and Husband in meeting (11.50am). Committees Reporting to Council Regional Transport Committee – 5 October 2015 File: 03 04 11 (Agenda Item # 4.1) Doc#3572233 Cr Vercoe presented the following report to Council of the Regional Transport Committee dated 5 October 2015.


REGIONAL TRANSPORT COMMITTEE Minutes 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 9.30am on Monday, 5 October 2015. PRESENT: Waikato Regional Council

Cr H Vercoe (Chair), Cr K White (Deputy Chair) Hamilton City Council

Cr L Tooman Hauraki District Council

Mayor J Tregidga Matamata District Council

Mayor J Barnes Otorohanga District Council

Mayor M Baxter South Waikato District Council

W Machen Taupo District Council

B Hickling Thames-Coromandel District Council

Cr P French Waipa District Council

Cr G Webber Waitomo District Council

Mayor B Hanna New Zealand Transport Agency

R Brodnax IN ATTENDANCE: Waikato Region Road Policing Manager

Inspector Freda Grace Waikato Regional Council Cr PA Southgate

STAFF:

Manager, Integration and Infrastructure (A Lane), Team Leader, Transport and Infrastructure (B McMaster), Democracy Advisor (J Cox)

APOLOGIES:

Waikato District Council Mayor A Sanson /1st alt Cr W Hayes /2nd alt Cr R Costar New Zealand Transport Agency H Wilson

Accepted Confirmation of Agenda

(Agenda Item 1)

Mayor Hanna moved/Cr Webber seconded RTC15/40 RESOLVED

THAT the agenda of the Regional Transport Committee of 5 October 2015 be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (RTC15/40)

Report of Council Meeting 29 October 2015 5 Minutes of the Regional Transport Committee 5 October 2015 – page 2

Disclosures of Interest

(Agenda Item 2) There were no disclosures of interest

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

Confirmation of Minutes 3 August 2015 File: 03 04 11 (Agenda Item 3)

The Chair noted that the minutes of the meeting held on 3 August 2015 had been circulated to members.

Mayor Barnes moved/Cr Webber seconded RTC15/41 RESOLVED

THAT the minutes of the Waikato Regional Transport Committee meeting of 3 August 2015 (Doc # 3467342) be confirmed as a true and correct record.


Guest Speaker – South Waikato Public Transport Trial File: 03 04 11, 20 12 15 (Agenda Item 4)

Presented by Ben Smit (Deputy Chief Executive, South Waikato District Council) this report provided a verbal briefing on the current South Waikato public transport trial. In speaking to the report, the following points were noted:

The trial of the Urban Connector started 22 June 2015 and will be reviewed after 4 months and again after 6 months.

The trial has included an urban circuit in Tokoroa and a district circuit between Tokoroa, Putaruru and Tirau.

Promotion of the service has included utilising Council’s website, social media, newspapers, radio, community newsletters, users groups, and notice boards.

It has provided a local solution for a local problem. The Community Steering Group spoke to all of the community to determine what services were out there and how to best support them.

Feedback received in the first five weeks of the trial has lead to some changes including increasing the frequency of the Tokoroa circuit from three circuits two hours apart, to six 50 minute circuits.

Patronage on the Tokoroa circuit has tripled within the first five weeks of the service, showing peaks particularly over the school holidays.

There is a partnership with Waiariki Institute of Technology around the Trade Training Centre, where they have requested a trial to assist with getting students to Braeside and Ashworth St Campuses.


This has also lead to discussions with Te Wananga o Aotearoa who are also interested in a similar voucher service.

South Waikato are working with the University of Waikato to add on to their proposed service from Tokoroa to the University in Hamilton to extend the service through to Waikato Hospital.

There will be a four month trial review and a six month review. Within the two reviews a business case will be generated for NZTA to secure funding for the longer term provision of the service.

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

Overwhelmingly the feedback received from passengers that they felt

stranded by the 2 hourly circuit was the main driver for increasing the frequency of the circuit. The patronage has improved as a result of the change.

The seating capacity currently is 24 and to accommodate mobility devices the vehicle would lose 6 seats. It has not yet been a concern but they are working on a solution over time in consultation with the community to ensure a solution is in place when the Total Mobility wheelchair taxi van is no longer available.

Matamata Piako District Council indicated their interest in working with South Waikato District Council to determine how the service could assist both areas, especially with the inclusion of a University bus and through to Waikato Hospital.

The money put in to the trial will last a considerable time and once South Waikato can prove viability then the business case will be provided to the Waikato Regional Council for consideration under the Regional Public Transport Plan and to NZTA for funding consideration.

The service is currently subsidised, 25% user pays (through fares), and the rest is funded by the South Waikato district economic development fund.

Patronage breakdown has indicated that the service is utilised predominantly by adults. The service for Waiariki Institute of Technology may be extended to a school bus service.

Infrastructure is signage, to provide a visual point for a stop. There are no shelters.

NZTA advised that the Business Case could bring in a mixed funding model with Waiariki Institute of Technology contributing as a third party.

Mayor Tregidga moved/Cr White seconded RTC15/42 RESOLVED

THAT the report “Guest Speaker – South Waikato Public Transport Trial” dated 17 September 2015 (Doc # 3508242) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (RTC15/42) 10.05am Councillor French out of the meeting.


Transport Planning and Projects Report File: 03 04 11 (Agenda Item 5) This item was taken as read. There were no questions or discussion on this report.

Mayor Barnes moved/Cr Machen seconded RTC15/43 RESOLVED

1. THAT the report “Transport Planning and Projects Report” dated 18 September 2015 (Doc # 3503619) be received for information.


Transport Choices Report File: 03 04 11, 20 12 15 (Agenda Item 6)

This item was taken as read. There were no questions or discussion on this report.

Cr Webber moved/Mayor Baxter seconded

RTC15/44 RESOLVED

THAT the report “Transport Choices Report” dated 15 September 2015 (Doc # 3488069) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (RTC15/44) 10.15 Councillor French returns to the meeting.

Regional Road Safety Monitor October 2015 File: 03 04 11, 21 20 40 (Agenda Item 7)

The report was taken as read. Andrew Tester (Senior Policy Advisor) was present to respond to the Committee questions.


The committee questioned whether more detail could be added to the

road crash summary table, to better identify the location and whether road fault may have contributed to the crash.

A Tester gave a verbal update on the Regional Speed Management Plan development process noting a Speed Management Strategic Case has been prepared and a Regional/National Planning day held. A draft Communication Strategy and draft Project Plan have been prepared and it is intended to bring these Plans to the RTC at their


next meeting on 30 November. It was noted that the road show meetings with territorial local authorities had been very successful.

Police confirmed that coming in to the summer months there would be a focus on motorcycle safety and a programme will commence on Labour weekend. This will work in with Thames Coromandel District Council and Waikato District Council.

Statistics show you are 57% more likely to die in a crash on a motorcycle than in a vehicle, and in the table provided of the 8 crashes involving motorcycles, 7 were found to be at fault for the crash. They were predominantly older male, weekend riders, who were correctly licensed.

To target and inform this older motorcycle rider there is education offered through known groups and retailers such as Road and Sport.

The number and age of the motorcyclists on the list reflects the high number of riders using the roads of the Coromandel Peninsula for their enjoyment. Coromandel is highly advertised on riding websites as a popular riding spot.

The committee questioned the inclusion of the statistic on 15 March 2015 whereby a cyclist was found on the roadside. It was confirmed that while there were no witnesses or information on the crash the injuries were consistent with being hit by a vehicle and not a medical event.

The Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council is working on a National Campaign to make roads, bikes and riders safer. The Council works alongside ACC in offering courses and training for riders which then leads to cheaper insurance for the rider.

Mayor Tregidga moved/R Brodnax seconded

RTC15/45 RESOLVED THAT the report “Regional Road Safety Monitor October 2015” dated 18 September 2015 (Doc # 3487519) be received for information.


The Chair invited Jo Carling to come forward. He thanked her for her considerable efforts over the eight years she has been with Council. Her outstanding commitment to road safety had produced many successful outcomes including several Regional Road Safety Strategies – one of which is now used as best practice guide nationally. Jo will be taking up a new role in road safety working for NZTA.

Update from NZ Police (Agenda Item 8)

Presented by Inspector Freda Grace (New Zealand Police) this report provided a verbal update from Police.

Police have just completed their National campaign focussing on driver

distraction.


They are working through the Rugby World Cup campaign whereby if drivers are issued an infringement notice they are given a yellow card which explains the process for demerits and loss of licence.

There has been a change in the delivery of the conversations held at the roadside to be more educational to drivers.

Focus is being maintained on street racers and in the summer the focus will be Safe Healthy Families.

Mayor Hanna moved/Mayor Baxter seconded

RTC15/46 RESOLVED THAT the verbal update provided by the Waikato Region Road Policing Manager be received for information.


Regional Transport Issues Forum File: 03 04 11 (Agenda Item 9)

Presented by Bill McMaster (Team Leader – Transport and Infrastructure) this report provided the Committee with an opportunity to raise and discuss regional transport issues in an open forum.

During questions, answers and associated discussion, the following points were raised and/or noted: Ministry of Education – withdrawal of school bus services in the Waikato region.

Mike Garrett (Chief Financial Officer) updated the Committee with where the conversation was at with the Ministry of Education. No further action has occurred past the Ministry identifying 10 services (serving three Hamilton high schools) that they felt were not eligible under their policy (as a result of ‘suitable’ public transport services being available). The Waikato Regional Council Chair and Chief Executive have taken the school bus matter to the Regional Sector Group of Local Government New Zealand to ensure that a national approach is taken in working with the Ministry of Education to come up with a solution.

The Committee will be updated on any further progress in the coming months.

Road Safety issues

There are a number of areas on the Waikato state highway network where the sealing chip is not adhering to the bitumen and has been torn up. The members discussed that advice had been provided that this sometimes occurs when the work is completed in cooler weather. The Committee requested that this issue be referred to the Regional Advisory Group (RAG) and a report prepared for the RTC’s consideration. It was also noted that a number of potholes are appearing on the state highway network in the South Waikato and Taupo area (and other areas). This issue is to be brought to the attention of NZTA and RAG.


Emergency response A recent exercise of Civil Defence confirmed that in the situation of a

gas leak facility on a state highway that NZ Rail had an 0800 number to contact and advise. For NZTA it was recommended that Police be contacted in the first instance. As part of their standard operating procedures they will contact NZTA through JTOC to the Operations Manager.

End of Life Tyres

Mayoral Forum discussion has lead to confirmation that the issue would be addressed directly with Minister Nick Smith to ensure that central government focus on this issue. A working group from Northland, Auckland, Waikato and Bay of Plenty members of the Regional Sector Group are completing a stock take of the issue to provide background to the national debate on the matter. A report will come to the Regional Transport Committee in the future.

Mayoral Forum Open Session

On 16 November between 1pm and 4pm there will be an open session within the Mayoral Forum. Recent discussion has included Waikato as a region and elevating projects. They have looked at roading connections through to the Bay of Plenty and to the South as being important for the region and will work in with the Regional Transport Committee on these issues. Committee members were invited to the Mayoral Forum open session at Karapiro on 16 November. The Chair noted that it is the role of the Committee to identify strategic priorities for the next Regional Land Transport Plan and that will include looking at projects such SH 1 south of Cambridge to Piarere and Southern Links.

Mayor Hanna moved/Mayor Baxter seconded RTC15/47 RESOLVED

THAT the report “Regional Transport Issues Forum” dated 18 September 2015 (Doc # 3508238) be received for information.


Freight Transport System Update File: 03 04 11 (Agenda Item 10)

The report was taken as read and there was no discussion on the report. Greg Morton was present to answer any questions.

Presentations were provided individually from:

Robert Brodnax (Regional Manager, Planning and Investment, New Zealand Transport Agency, Waikato/BOP regions)

Mark Whitworth (Cargo Services Manager, Port of Tauranga) Scott Brownlee (Chief Executive, CODA) Stephen Collett (Northern Regional Manager – Infrastructure and

Engineering, KiwiRail) Dean Shields (General Manager Property, Tainui Group Holdings)



The concern about the population growth and land use expansion of

Auckland and the impact this will have on Waikato roads in the future was noted by the Committee. One of the constraints was funding for rail projects in Auckland to lessen the impact on the roading network and this was a conversation that should be happening at a national level.

Mayor Barnes left the meeting 11.45am

The government will not necessarily make the decisions over which parts of the transport sector should making investments. The inter-relationship between the different parts of the transport sector (road, rail, ports) is very competitive and the Government generally maintains a hands off stance in this environment.

While the Port of Timaru is not configured (deep enough) for international shipping, Port of Tauranga has invested in the port to utilise the coastal shipping routes and links to rail in the South Island.

Port of Tauranga has been able to make the decision to expand and dredge the shipping channel at Tauranga based on a 10 year commitment by Kotahi to the port.

Ports of Auckland is primarily an import destination, based on the consumption and manufacture of goods provided in the area. Port of Tauranga is primarily an export port. Both ports are working on altering their import export ratios to reduce the need for the government of empty containers.

The Ruakura development will assist the Crawford Street inland port which is nearly at capacity.

Mayor Tregidga moved/Cr Tooman seconded

RTC15/48 RESOLVED

THAT the report “Freight Transport System Update” dated 18 September 2015 (Doc # 3496455) be received.

The motion was put and carried (RTC15/48) The Chair then invited Greg Morton to come forward. He was thanked for his work with the Committee for the past five years on freight and regional land transport plan issues. He will be moving to a new role within Council – Team Leader – Policy Implementation Section.

Meeting closed at 12.40pm Docs #3572233

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Return to the minutes of Council meeting dated 29 October 2015 Minutes of the Regional Transport Committee 5 October 2015


Cr Vercoe moved/Cr Buckley seconded

WRC15/401 1. THAT the report of the Regional Transport Committee held 5 October 2015 be received.

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


Hearings Appointment Subcommittee – 29 September 2015 File: 03 02 40 (Agenda Item # 4.2) Doc#3569454 Cr Southgate presented the following report to Council of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee dated 29 September 2015.


HEARINGS APPOINTMENT SUBCOMMITTEE

Report of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee of the Waikato Regional Council held in the Committee Room, Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at 9.35am on 29 September 2015. MEMBERS: Cr PA Southgate (Chair), Cr RM Simcock, Cr TM Stark.

STAFF: Group Manager, Resource Use (C McLay), Team Manager

Democracy Services (M Ahipene), Democracy Advisor (A Williams)

APOLOGIES: Cr T Mahuta Accepted

Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 1) Cr P Southgate moved/Cr B Simcock seconded

HAS15/08 THAT the agenda of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee of 29 September 2015 as circulated be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (HAS15/08)

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

SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL) Proposed Resource Consent Hearing – November 2015 File: 03 02 40 (Agenda Item 3) Doc: 3414061 The Manager for Democracy Service (M Ahipene) presented the report which sought the establishment of a panel of commissioners for a hearing in November.

Cr Stark in meeting (9.38am).

There was some discussion around the required specialist knowledge of the potential Commissioners. The Committee agreed that Commissioners to cover legal matters, Resource Management Act matters and matters of significance to Maori (as recommended) be appointed. Cr P Southgate moved/Cr B Simcock seconded

HAS15/09 1. THAT the report “Proposed Resource Consent Hearings – November 2015” (Doc #3563125 dated 22 September 2015) be received; and

Report of Council Meeting 29 October 2015 14 Minutes of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee 29 September 2015 – page 2

2. THAT the report “Proposed Resource Consent Hearings – November 2015” (Doc #3563125 dated 22 September 2015) be received; and

3. That a Hearing Committee be established in terms of the Resource Management Act 1991 to hear and decide the following applications for resource consent together with all the relevant ancillary powers under the Act: i. Tairua Marina to authorise the occupation of the coastal marine area

for the installation of trash screen/filter/weir to existing stormwater outfalls (Application 133097, Authorisation 116402), and to erect sheet pile retaining walls for the purpose of creating a 95 berth marina (Application 131657, Authorisations 117583 & 119958) with the Hearing Committee to comprise of Craig Shearer (as Chair), Doug Arcus and Dayle Hunia.

The motion was put and carried (HAS15/09)

Meeting closed 9:50am Doc: #3569495

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Return to the minutes of Council meeting dated 29 October 2015 Minutes of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee 29 September 2015 – page 2

Cr Southgate moved/Cr Simcock seconded.

WRC15/402 1. THAT the report of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee held 29 September 2015 be received.


The motion was put and carried (WRC15/402) Hearings Appointment Subcommittee – 13 October 2015 File: 03 02 40 (Agenda Item # 4.3) 3586303 Cr Southgate presented the following report to Council of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee dated 13 October 2015.


HEARINGS APPOINTMENT SUBCOMMITTEE

Report of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee of the Waikato Regional Council held in the Committee Room, Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at 9.35am on 13 October 2015. MEMBERS: Cr PA Southgate (Chair), Cr RM Simcock and Cr TM Stark.

STAFF: Manager, Resource Use (B Sinclair), Manager Organisational

Performance (J Farley), Democracy Services Advisor (D Thurlow).

APOLOGIES: Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 1) Cr Southgate moved/Cr Simock seconded

HAS15/10 THAT the agenda of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee of 13 October 2015 as circulated be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (HAS15/10) Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2) There were no disclosures of interest noted.

SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL) Proposed Resource Consent Hearing – November 2015 File: 03 02 40 (Agenda Item 3) Doc: 3273978 The Manager, Organisational Performance (J Farley) presented the report which sought the appointment of a panel of commissioners for two hearings, namely: 1. Wallace Corporation Limited 2. C Smith and D&M Stewart The Manager Resource Use (B Sinclair) outlined the application. In respect to the Wallace Corporation Limited application, discussion ensued on whether a third Commissioner should be appointed onto the panel given the issues around water quality with the application. Members were in agreement that a third Commissioner was not necessary given the good relationship that exists between the applicant and Iwi.

Report of Council Meeting 29 October 2015 16 Minutes of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee 13 October 2015 – page 2

Cr Southgate moved/Cr Stark seconded

HAS15/11 1. THAT the report “Proposed Resource Management Act Hearing – November 2015 (Doc# 3573294 dated 8 October 2015) be received for information.

2. THAT a Hearing Committee be established in terms of the Resource Management Act 1991 to hear and decide the following application for resource consent together with all the relevant ancillary powers under the Act: (i) Wallace Corporation Limited – Waitoa (Application numbers

130915.01 to 130915.06) to take water from Waitoa River (9,920 cubic metres per day), to discharge stormwater from various sub-catchments, discharge treated water and bio-solids to land including circumstances which may result in contaminants entering the air, discharge treated waste water from the Wallace Corporation limited waste water treatment plant to the Waitoa River, discharge cooling water including heat to the Waitoa River, to discharge contaminants into the air arising from Wallace Corporation Limited with the Hearing Committee to comprise Phil Mitchell (as Chair) and Ian Boothroyd.

The motion was put and carried (HAS15/11) The Manager Resource Use (B Sinclair) outlined the application. He noted that if the quarry proposal was one that fell under the Waikato River Authority (WRA) banner it would require a commissioner put forward by the WRA. In response, the Manager, Organisational Performance, advised that the application, to the best of her knowledge, was not a WRA process. In respect to the C Smith and D&M Stewart application, a question was raised as to whether the panel should include an Iwi Commissioner. Following discussion the Subcommittee were in support of the staff recommendation to appoint Peter Crawford (as Chair) and Shane Solomon to the panel. Cr Southgate moved/Cr Stark seconded

HAS15/11.1 3. THAT a Hearing Committee be established in terms of the Resource Management Act 1991 to hear and decide the following application for resource consent together with all the relevant ancillary powers under the Act: (ii) C Smith and D&M Stewart (AUTH125458) for soil disturbance in

high risk erosion areas, and to discharge treated process water and stormwater into a tributary of Mangahoi Stream, to lace overburden onto the ground, and water take from the quarry pit and/or Mangaohoi Stream with the Hearing Committee to comprise Peter Crawford (as Chair) and Shane Solomon.

The motion was put and carried (HAS15/11.1)

Meeting closed 9.45am Doc: 3586303


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Return to the minutes of Council meeting dated 29 October 2015 Minutes of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee 13 October 2015 – page 2

Cr Southgate moved/Cr Simcock seconded.

WRC15/403 1. THAT the report of the Hearings Appointment Subcommittee held 13 October 2015 be received.


The motion was put and carried (WRC15/403) Strategy and Policy Committee – 13 October 2015 File: 03 04 15 (Agenda Item # 4.4) Doc#3577468 Cr Simcock presented the following report to Council of the Strategy and Policy Committee dated 13 October 2014.


STRATEGY AND POLICY COMMITTEE

Minutes 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 10:02am on 13 October 2015 MEMBERS: Cr RM Simcock (Chair), Cr CW Graf, Cr LA Livingston, Cr TM Stark,

Cr KA White Ex-officio Cr PA Southgate

IN ATTENDANCE: Cr PR Buckley and Cr S Kneebone

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

APOLOGIES:

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

SPC15/42 THAT the agenda of the Strategy and Policy Committee of 13 October 2015 as circulated be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (SPC15/42) Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2) There were no disclosures of interest noted.

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

Summary of findings of Upper North Island Industrial Land Demand Study File: 22 00 02 (Agenda Item 3) Doc: #3562928 Presented by the Manager Strategy (K Mayes), the report provided the Committee with a summary of findings from the Upper North Island Land Demand Study completed recently by BERL on behalf of the Upper North Island Strategic Alliance councils. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters:

Report of Council Meeting 29 October 2015 19 Minutes of the Strategy & Policy Committee 13 October 2015 – page 2

- A member questioned why quarrying had not been included in the study given its importance. Staff advised that the for the purpose of this study it was decided to only incorporate land over 50 hectares in size and zoned industrial as such this excluded activities such as quarrying. It was noted that issues in respect to quarrying are better able to be addressed through the policy direction of the Regional Policy Statement.

- Concern was expressed that councils are working in silos around the potential effect of the roll out of industrial land specifically around the protection of soils.

Cr Southgate moved/Cr Simcock seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/43 THAT the report “Summary of findings of Upper North Island Industrial Land Demand Study” (Doc # 3562928 dated 29 September 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (SPC15/43) Regional Plan and Regional Coastal Plan Review Project - Update File: 23 20 10 (Agenda Item 4) Doc: 3567578 Presented by the Manager Policy (T Quickfall), the report updated the Committee on the beginning of the project planning for the reviews of the Regional Coastal Plan (WCP) and Waikato Regional Plan (WRP). Karen Holland, who was recently appointed as Project Manager for the Regional Coastal Plan was introduced to the Committee as was Bruce McAuliffe Team Leader Water in the Policy section. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: - Staff advised that issues that have arisen from other projects, such as the

Annual Plan and Long Term Plan processes as well as the Healthy Rivers Wai Ora project have, and are being captured into a database which will be used as a starting point going into the reviews for both the Regional Coastal Plan and the Waikato Regional Plan. This has also included issues captured by Councils Resource Use Directorate, issues related to plan implementation.

- Discussion centred on the project structure, specifically where elected members and community engagement fits within the flowchart. The Director Science and Strategy advised that the Project Manager and Project Lead will be looking at a range of mechanisms to determine the size of role for elected members. In respect to the Coastal Plan, the importance of having the coastal communities involved at the outset was emphasised. Members were of the view that staff establish a community engagement diagram. The Director Science and Strategy advised the Committee that there will be a suite of diagrams that will sit alongside the decision-making flowchart.

- It was noted that an environmental forum has been scheduled in December that will primarily focus on coastal issues.

Councillor Southgate left the meeting at 10.40am. Cr Graf moved/Cr Stark seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/44 THAT the report “Regional Plan and Regional Coastal Plan Review Project – Update” (Doc # 3567578 dated 28 September 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (SPC15/44)


Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari (Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Plan) Progress Update File: 22 03 85K (Agenda Item 5) Doc: 3567812 Presented by Manager Policy (T Quickfall), this report updated the Committee on progress and milestones for the Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Plan.

Councillor Southgate returned to the meeting at 10.45am. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: - A member questioned how Sea Change fits into the Regional Plan review. In

response, staff advised that a Marine Spatial Plan will inform the Regional Plan.

- It was felt that an update on the key issues being debated would be useful. The Director Science and Strategy advised that it had always been the intention of staff to bring this information back to Council, however this has not occurred as the project has been in a hiatus. Council is adamant that it was not want a document that lands on the table for a rubber stamp and that this Council needs to be involved in the discussions to ensure that any product coming from this process is implementable. Staff undertook to provide a report outlining the content.

Cr Simcock moved/Cr Simcock seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/45 THAT the report “Sea Change – Tai Timu Tai Pari Hauraki Gulf/Tikapa Moana Marine Spatial Plan” (Doc # 3567812 dated 28 September 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (SPC15/45) Local Indigenous Biodiversity Strategy Pilot Project – Project Initiation File: 22 10 47 (Agenda Item 6) Doc: 3571545 Presented by Senior Policy Advisor (M Vare), the report updated the Committee on the initiation of the Local Indigenous Biodiversity Strategy (LIBS) Pilot Project in the Upper Waihou sub catchments. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: - In order to achieve ecological restoration members were of the view that

there needs to be better linkages to a regulatory framework noting that tools outside of regulatory methods will need to be investigated. It was hoped that this project will highlight non regulatory methods for enhancing biodiversity and identify other opportunities to bring in an economic return.

- A member expressed concerns, around the mapping component of the pilot project which was likened to a continuation of SNA mapping linked to district plans. In response staff noted that the LIBS pilot aimed to move away from relying solely on regulatory tools such as district plans and that the mapping component of the project was about modelling a future state biodiversity framework that provides the strategic picture for communities to work together to achieve over time through a variety of tools. Community engagement is a key part of achieving this.


- It was acknowledged that the Territorial Authorities are key to this process given that they have functions under the Resource Management Act to manage biodiversity. Therefore the expectation is that as Local Indigenous Biodiversity Strategies evolve the discussions have already taken place which will ensure alignment with Territorial Authorities.

Cr Southgate moved/Cr Simcock seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/46 THAT the report (Local Indigenous Biodiversity Strategy (LIBS) Pilot Project Initiation” (Doc # 3571545 dated 2 October 2015) be receive for information.

The motion was put and carried (SPC15/46) Environmental Reporting Act 2015 and Resource Management Act 1991 Reform Update File: 25 02 00 (Agenda Item 7) Doc: 3568988 Presented by Director Science and Strategy (T May), the report provided an update to the Committee on the recently passed Environment Reporting Act 2015 (ERA) and also to appraised Council of recent commentary made by the Minister for the Environment at the event Resource Management Law Association Conference in regard to resource management reform. Cr Simcock moved/Cr Stark seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/47 THAT the report “Environmental Reporting Act 2015 and Resource Management Act 1991 Reform Update” (Doc # 3568988 dated 29 September 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (SPC15/47) Rules Reduction Taskforce Report to the Minister of Local Government File: 41 03 02 (Agenda Item 8) Doc: 3572329 Presented by Director Science and Strategy (T May), the report provided the Committee with an overview of the recently published ‘Rules Reduction Taskforce Report’ that was provided to the Minister of Local Government. Cr Southgate moved/Cr Simcock seconded RESOLVED

SPC15/48 THAT the report “Rues Reduction Taskforce Report to the Minister of Local Government” (Doc # 3572329 dated 4 October 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (SPC15/48) Meeting closed at 11.20am Doc # 3577468

* * * * *


Return to the minutes of Council meeting dated 29 October 2015 Minutes of the Strategy & Policy Committee 13 October 2015

Cr Simcock moved/Cr Stark seconded.

WRC15/404 1. THAT report of the Strategy and Policy Committee held 13 October 2015 be received.


The motion was put and carried (WRC15/404) Environmental Performance Committee – 14 October 2015 File: 03 04 30 (Agenda Item # 4.5) Doc#3576478 Cr Graf presented the following report to Council of the Environmental Performance Committee dated 14 October 2015.


ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE COMMITTEE Report of the meeting of the Environmental Performance Committee of the Waikato Regional Council held in the Council Chamber, Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at 10.00am on 14 October 2015. MEMBERS: Cr CW Graf (Chair), Cr TH Bramley, Cr ST Kneebone, Cr LA

Livingston, Cr KA White Ex-officio Cr PA Southgate

IN ATTENDANCE: Cr PR Buckley, Cr TM Stark, Cr J Hennebry, Cr A Livingston, Cr S Husband

STAFF:

Director Resource Use (C McLay), Manager Industry and Infrastructure (B Sinclair), Manager Investigations and Incident Response (P Lynch), Manager Science and Strategy (D Noiton) and Democracy Advisor (Gaylyn Cannon).

APOLOGIES: EPC15/25 Confirmation of Agenda (Agenda Item 1)

Councillor L Livingston moved/Councillor C Graf seconded

THAT the agenda for the Environmental Performance Committee of 14 October 2015, as circulated, be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (EPC15/25)

Disclosures of Interest (Agenda Item 2)

There were no disclosures of interest. SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL)

Resolution to Exclude Public (Agenda Item 3) Councillor L Livingston moved/Councillor C Graf seconded

EPC15/26 THAT in accordance with the provisions of Standing Orders NZS902:2003

Appendix A & B (P40/42) and Section 48(1) 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


Minutes of the Environmental Performance Committee 14 October 2015 – page 2 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

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

4 Update on Prosecutions

Conclusive reasons to withhold exist under Section 6 Good reason to withhold exists under Section 7

S48(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 Sections 6 and 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 4 Maintenance of the law and right to a fair trial S6(a) 4 Protect the privacy of natural persons, including that of

deceased natural persons S7(a)

4 Legal privilege S7(g)

The motion was put and carried (EPC15/26) Return to Open Meeting. Consent, Incident Response and Enforcement Statistics

Doc # 3482744 (Agenda Item 5)

Presented by Brent Sinclair (Manager – Industry and Infrastructure Resource Use) this report provided an overview of recent work within the Resource Use Directorate. Information was summarised for consent applications, appeals received and incidents reported to Council.

In speaking to the report, the following matters were noted:

Annual charges were about to be sent out to consent holders.

Through the LTP process, the RUD portion of the annual charge had been reduced from $160 to $130. However, changes were made by the Council to the portion of the annual charge that partly funds work done by the Science and Strategy (SAS) Directorate. This resulted in some consent holders paying more and some paying less, and some of these changes are significant.

There had been a considerable increase in the number of consent applications received for new subdivisions. External consultants had been engaged to manage the increased workload.

The increase in subdivision applications was also leading to an increase in enquiries to Councillors.

Report of Council Meeting 29 October 2015 25 Minutes of the Environmental Performance Committee 14 October 2015 – page 3

Accessibility to public transport was not a matter that was relevant to consideration of the subdivision applications lodged with WRC. This was a consideration for the relevant local Council. However, WRC (via the policy team in SAS) could make submissions to local Council consent processes if appropriate.

There was a need for Territorial Authorities and the Waikato Regional Council to have a consistent and formalised approach when processing subdivision consents, to ensure that all environmental concerns were considered and addressed at the start of the process.

As at the date of the report, the timeframe compliance for the processing of consents was 100%.

The following significant application processes were noted specifically: o The decision relating to the Lake Waikare consent review had

been appealed. The appeal had been set down for mediation in December. A fixture date was expected in June 2016, should mediation fail.

o The Environment Court reconvened to hear the Puke Coal appeal earlier in the month. A decision was likely to be 3-4 months away. This was the first time that the Vision and Strategy for the Waikato River has been considered by the Court as part of a consent process.

o The Watercare Services Ltd application for discharges from a pipeline near Pukekohe had been notified. It was on hold to allow for time for further consultation between the parties.

o The Wallace Corporation application had been set down for hearing in mid-November 2015.

o The Greenlea Premier Meats groundwater take application was expected to be heard in the New Year.

AFFCO had applied to replace existing consents. That application had been publicly notified and was likely to be heard late this year. An application had also been lodged for a new milk drying plant at the site. A decision regarding notification of that application had not yet been made.

The Watercare Services Ltd application to replace the consents for the Pukekohe Wastewater Treatment plant discharge was awaiting further information before the decision regarding notification was made.

NZ Transport Agency’s consent application for the Longswamp portion of the Waikato Expressway had been lodged and was being processed.

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

The Department of Conservation and Fish & Game were taking part in

the mediation of the Lake Waikare appeal. Water take applications lodged that impact on allocation within the

Waikato River catchments were in the deferral queue awaiting consideration.

Staff anticipated that the Upper Waikato (i.e. above Karapiro) will reach the point where the Waikato River is fully allocated by the end of the financial year.


Councillor L Livingston moved/Councillor K White seconded EPC15/29 THAT the report “Consent, Incident Response and Enforcement

Statistics” (Doc # 3482744 dated 5 October 2015) be received for information.


Contaminated Land Statutory Framework, National and Regional

Responsibilities Doc # 3540043 (Agenda Item 6)

Presented by Dominique Noiton (Manager – Science and Strategy), this report provided an overview of the statutory and policy framework that mandates Waikato Regional Council (WRC) to undertake activities related to the management of contaminated land. The report was support by a PowerPoint presentation (DM # 3575808).

In speaking to the report and the presentation, including reference to the relevant portions of the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA), the following additional points were noted:

Contaminated land was often a legacy of the past. Contaminated land was defined as being land that had a hazardous

substance in or on it that had significant adverse effect on the environment or was reasonably likely to have adverse effect on the environment.

The difference between the obligations of WRC and Territorial Authorities (TAs) was noted.

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

WRC was proactive in identifying contaminated sites, using the

Hazardous Activities and Industries List (HAIL). Two areas within Hamilton, that had previously been orchards and

subject to investigations in 2003, have again come to the attention of WRC, following a change in national guidelines. A communications plan has been created by Hamilton City Council with assistance from WRC and the Waikato DHB to re-communicate the history of the land and to assist the current landowners to manage potential risks.

Where risks are identified, WRC works with private landowners to assist in remediation. If private landowners are not identifiable, WRC works with the Ministry for the Environment and the appropriate TA.

A land use register is maintained in conjunction with TAs in the region. This register is used to prioritise the risk of contaminated sites in need of management. The Long Term Plan 2015-2025 had made provision for Contaminated Land Investigation Fund of $400,000 to help meet some of the costs of investigating and managing these high risk sites.

A liaison group, involving all of the TAs, was established in 2008 to assist with technical support and training.


Councillor S Kneebone moved/Councillor L Livingston seconded EPC15/30 RESOLVED THAT the report “Contaminated land statutory framework, national and

regional responsibilities” (Doc # 3540043 dated 28 September 2015) be received for information.


Contaminated Sites Land Use Register and Priority Sites


Presented by Michelle Begbie (Scientist), this report provided an overview of the contaminated sites land use register and priority sites that Waikato Regional Council manages. The report was support by a PowerPoint presentation (DM # 3575808).

Chris McLay left the meeting at 11.00am. Amy Robinson assumed his place.

In speaking to the report and presentation, the following additional points were noted:

The region has over 6,500 potentially contaminated sites recorded on

it. The presentation broke down the sites identified on the register. A

small percentage of this land had been confirmed as being contaminated.

Photographs of various sites showing historic and current uses of the various sites were presented to the Committee. Historical photographs were a useful tool in identifying potentially contaminated sites.

The register was a well-used resource.

During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee members raised or noted the following matters:

The placement and risk to cemeteries was discussed. These were

considered to be contaminated sites. WRC’s responsibility for managing contaminated sites was discussed.

The prioritisation process was explained to the Committee. If the land was private land, WRC would look at whether the issue could be addressed through a consenting process.

As a rule of thumb, WRC focused on one high risk site each year. This year, that site was the Rotowaro Carbonisation Plant near Huntly. The number of investigations that were able to be undertaken was restricted by budget. To effectively use the available fund, money spent on a particular site had to be balanced against a risk assessment.


Councillor K White moved/Councillor L Livingston seconded EPC15/31 RESOLVED THAT the report “Contaminated sites land use register and priority

sites” (Doc # 3540260 dated 28 September 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (EPC15/31) Dealing with Contaminated Sites – Two Case Studies


Presented by Jonathan Caldwell (Senior Scientist), this report illustrated how Waikato Regional Council manages high-risk contaminated sites using two current case studies, which are the Rotowaro Carbonisation Plant and the Waikino Tailings Dam sites. The report was supported by a PowerPoint presentation (DM # 3575808).


The presentation gave an historical overview of two priority sites,

being the Rotowaro Carbonisation Plant and the Waikino Tailings Dam.

It was not easy to identify landowners for either of these sites. A significant amount of remedial work has been undertaken at the

Rotowaro Carbonisation Plant site. However, there is more work to do. The site is currently managed by the Public Trust. A legal opinion had been provided in 1990 absolving the Crown of liability for the Rotowaro site. Additionally, the landowner has been provided indemnification from the Crown.

The Waikino Tailings Dam had been created in the early 1900’s and was basically an in-filled gully. The placement of the Hauraki Rail Cycleway, which comes within metres of the Dam, had made it more accessible to the public, increasing the risk it poses to the public. WRC was working with the Hauraki District Council to warn people of the risk.

In March/June 2015, bores had been put in place by WRC to intercept groundwater movement through the Dam into the Ohinemuri River. Interim sample results show low levels of contaminants. Any remedial works would require a consideration of river bank stability.

Councillor S Husband arrived at 11.23am.

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

The Committee asked whether it was appropriate to request a new

legal opinion regarding the liability of the Crown for the Rotowaro site. It was advised that it the Minister for the Environment had been encouraging about the support that the Crown would provide in remediating the site. The Crown would normally meet 50% of the associated costs, but it could go higher in this instance. WRC had made an application for funding and expected an answer in mid –November 2015.


The Committee asked about the number of contaminated sites found in lower socio-economic areas. Dominique Noiton undertook to check if there is any available information on this point.

The Committee asked about the discharge of contaminants from the Waikino Tailings Dam into the Firth of Thames Firth of Thames. The Firth was monitored and testing had shown elevated levels of mercury and arsenic. It was difficult to pinpoint the source of these contaminants.

Councillor K White moved/Councillor C Graf seconded EPC15/32 RESOLVED THAT the report “Dealing with contaminated sites – Two case studies”

(Doc # 3540274 dated 28 September 2015) be received for information.

The motion was put and carried (EPC15/32) Chris McLay returned to the meeting at 11.35am. SECTION A: (UNDER DELEGATION FOR THE INFORMATION OF COUNCIL) SECTION B: (FOR RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL) Review of Brodifacoum Use

Doc #3573844 (Agenda Item 9)

Presented by Councillor Kathy White, this report considered the national use of brodifacoum for pest control in the environment. A new report and supplementary information was tabled (DM # 3592378). The report was support by a PowerPoint presentation (DM # 3592391).


The presentation included a review of a number of international

studies relating to the effect of the use of anticoagulants as a method of pest control on non-target wildlife. This included the presence of anticoagulant residues in raptors. This included reference to the work of Dr. Penny Fisher of Landcare Research.

The potential for risk to human health, particularly through the consumption of wild pigs, who could consume poisoned carcases, was noted.

The use of brodifacoum by other Local Government Organisations had been surveyed and the varying results were presented to the Committee. There were a wide variety of opinions and monitoring.

The Department of Conservation’s (DOC) view on the use of brodifacoum was presented to the committee. DOC’s policy included using brodifacoum to only target rodents using captive baits in bait stations designed to exclude other animal pests present (especially possums) where pigs could not be exposed to the toxin. DOC had minimised its use of brodifacoum since 2000 due to its perceived risk to wildlife.


WRC had supplied 6.3 tonnes of brodifacoum to contractors and landowners over the last 18 months. Its use included possum control. WRC mainly used brodifacoum around farmland, which were areas close to bush where wild pigs resided.

DOC was a landowner that predominantly took pest control works over large areas of land. WRC was not a landowner and undertook pest control in consultation with large numbers of private landowners over a wide variety of habitats.

Recommendations to staff from ACRE regarding potential programmes of work were outlined.

It was important to look at alternative baiting and pest control strategies.

Patrick Whaley (Manager – Integrated Catchment Services) and Brett Bailey (Bio security Pest Animals Team Leader) then presented to the Committee, noting the following:

It was noted again the WRC worked in consultation with approximately

4,500 private landowners. Ultimately the pest control methods used was the decision of landowners. WRC provided advice and information to help minimise risk. DOC had more autonomy in terms of pest control decision making.

Landowners were consulted before tenders were put out for contractors. All considerations were taken into account, including organic farm areas. Operational programmes required a large amount of flexibility to provide a management programme that was acceptable to a wide range of landowners.

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

One tonne of brodifacoum had been supplied to various community

members in the Coromandel. No record had been kept of who it was supplied to and what the intended use was. It again has been disestablished and community groups have been asked to apply for bait through SSCIF.

Diphacinone was a first generation anticoagulant that had been trialled by DOC in 2009 leading to the deaths of a large number of native bats. It was asked whether it was reasonable to assume that the brodifacoum, as a second generation anticoagulant, posed a greater threat. This was a complicated question to answer and was dependant in bait management systems, but staff did not think so.

WRC only used brodifacoum on maintenance blocks where possum numbers were already low.

WRC contractors are required to decontaminate all bait stations at the completion of control. This is a process that was audited by staff. It was also noted that brodifacoum was only used in any particular environment once every three years.

The application of brodifacoum was managed on a case by case basis.

Members of the Committee considered that the issue was identifying the best alternative to the use brodifacoum, which should be used as a last resort.

WRC’s Pest Management Strategy required the use of the most efficient and effective means, including cost. Staff considered that the


use of a first generation anticoagulant would increase cost. Councillor P Southgate requested a cost/benefit report. There was also a need for more information from staff about potential alternatives.

A more standardised approach to the use of brodifacoum was required in order to protect human health.

There was a concern that prohibiting the use of brodifacoum would limit the pest control options available to landowners. The importance of discussing the issue with landowners and seeking their input was noted. It was suggested that the issue should be raised with the Catchment Committees in order to seek their input.

Councillor T Bramley left the meeting at 12.35pm.

Councillor K White moved/Councillor L Livingston seconded EPC15/33 RESOLVED THAT Councillor White’s report entitled “Review of brodifacoum use”

(dated 5 October 2015) be received for information.


Councillor P Southgate moved/Councillor S Kneebone seconded EPC15/34 RECOMMENDED

THAT the matter lie on the table pending further discussion, and investigation by staff, of alternative options to Brodifacoum and any implications, and that it be tested with the Catchment Committees.

The motion was put and carried (EPC15/34) Meeting closed at 12.45pm

* * * * * Return to the minutes of Council meeting dated 29 October 2015 Minutes of the Environmental Performance Committee 14 October 2015

Cr Southgate moved/Cr Graf seconded.

WRC15/405 1. THAT the report of the Environmental Performance Committee Open Section held 14 October 2015 be received.




Council then considered the following recommendation in Section B of report. Review of Brodifacoum Use THAT the matter lie on the table pending further discussion, and investigation by staff, of alternative options to Brodifacoum and any implications, and that it be tested with the Catchment Committees. An amendment was moved by Cr L Livingston and seconded by Cr White: Review of Brodifacoum Use THAT the matter lie on the table pending further discussion, and investigation by staff, of alternative options to Brodifacoum and any implications, and that it be tested with the Catchment Committees Council. The amendment was put and carried and became the substantive. Cr L Livingston moved/Cr White seconded.

WRC15/406 THAT the matter lie on the table pending further discussion, and investigation by staff, of alternative options to Brodifacoum and any implications, and that it be tested with Council.

The motion was put and carried (WRC15/406) Integrated Catchment Management Committee – 15 October 2015 File:03 04 30 (Agenda Item # 4.5) Doc#3577589 Cr Husband presented the following report to Council of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee dated 15 October 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 10:00 am on 15 October 2015. MEMBERS: Councillors

Stu Husband (Chair) Peter Buckley Stu Kneebone Timoti Bramley Kathy White Paula Southgate or (ex officio) Catchment Committee Chairs Robert Hicks Rob Jolly (Deputy Chair of West Coast Catchment Committee) Richard Stokes (Deputy Chair of Upper Waikato Catchment Committee) John Sanford Sue Yerex

STAFF: Manager Business and Technical Services (Bruce Peploe), Manager Taupo/Upper Waikato Catchments (Anne McLeod), Manager Integrated Catchment Management (Patrick Whaley) Democracy Advisor (Alex Williams), Principal Advisor (Amy Robinson); Manager Hauraki/Coromandel (Julie Beaufill); Team Leaders (Tane Desmond, Brett Bailey and Darion Embling), Michael Duffy (Zone Manager)

IN ATTENDANCE:

APOLOGIES: Malcolm Lumsden, Sally Strang, Bob Simcock, Tipa Mahuta, Councillor Alan Livingston, Stu Muir (Deputy Chair of Lower Waikato Catchment Committee), Theresa Stark, Maxine Moana-Tuwhangai (Absence). Paula Southgate (leaving early)

Accepted Prior to the commencement of the meeting the Chair, Councillor Stuart Husband welcomed new members:

Richard Stokes (New Deputy Chair of Upper Waikato Catchment Committee) Rob Jolly (New Deputy Chair of West Coast Catchment Committee)

Confirmation of Agenda

(Agenda Item 1) Cr P Buckley moved/R Hicks seconded

ICM15/65 THAT the agenda of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee of 15 October 2015 as circulated be confirmed as the business for the meeting.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/65)

Report of Council Meeting 29 October 2015 34 Minutes of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee 15 October 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 # 3473345 and 3573821 The minutes were taken as read and there was no further discussion. S Yerex moved/R Hicks seconded

ICM15/65 THAT the minutes of the meeting of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee held on 12 August 2015 (Doc # 3473345) and the extract from the minutes of the Council meeting held on 27 August 2015 (Doc # 3573821) be received.


ICMC Issues and Actions Report File: 03 02 36 (Agenda Item 4) Doc # 3266517 This item provided an update on the actions requested at the August 2015 ICMC meeting. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: In respect of the Tauhei Flood Protection Upgrade, there had been a Community Open day that some members had attended. There was a good Community turn out for the event and the general consensus was that the Community was in support of the Upgrade. There is a further Open Day in November. S Yerex moved/Cr P Buckley seconded

ICM15/66 THAT the report “Issues/Actions from Integrated Catchment Management Meetings” (Doc # 3266517 dated 30 September 2015) be received.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/66) Upper Waikato Catchment Chair and Deputy Chair Appointments File: 03 02 32 (Agenda Item 5) Doc # 3575017 Presented by Section Manager (B Peploe) the report requested the approval of the appointment of the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee Chair and Deputy Chair. The report was taken as read and there was no further discussion.


Cr P Buckley moved/S Yerex seconded

ICM15/67 1. THAT the report “Upper Waikato Catchment Committee Chair and Deputy Chair Appointments” (Doc #3575017 dated 7 October 2015) be received for information; and

2. That the Integrated Catchment Management Committee approves the appointment of S Strang as Chair and R Stokes as Deputy Chair of the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee.


Waikato Regional Pest Management Plan 2015/2016 Operational Plan File: 95 07 50 (Agenda Item 6) Doc # 3568820 and 3497689 Presented by Manager – Integrated Catchment Services (P Whaley). The report sought the Committees approval of the Waikato Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) Operational Plan 2015/16.

The Regional Pest Management Plan was adopted in August 2014. The Operational Plan has borne out of this. The objectives of the plan are to:

1. Prevent new pests entering New Zealand 2. Manage pests already in New Zealand.

Cr P Southgate left at 10.23am

The Operational Plan will be presented to each Catchment Committee, tailored to the zone areas. The presentation outlined some of the projects that have been undertaken and are on-going.

Cr P Southgate returned at 10.28am During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters:

Concern was expressed about the lack of involvement of Auckland in regards to the elimination of the Mediterranean Fanworm in their region. Mitigating this was the establishment of the “Top of the North”, which involved 5 Regional Councils in the North: Gisborne Waikato Bay of Plenty Northland Auckland The intention is to work collaboratively to establish what rules and mechanisms they currently have in place collectively. Further to this, there is the Marine Owners association which is a national group inclusive of Auckland. They are proactive with any issues and have the power to make rules quickly if required.


The Koi Carp fish trap at Lake Waikare which utilises the digester to turn the pest fish into fertiliser was discussed. One member queried the possibility of having someone else take the fish away and if the costs associated with this had been considered. There were several options being explored such as: The project being undertaken on the West Coast of making them into

fertiliser tablets More traps being installed There was an intention to incorporate this project into the Waikato Rivers Restoration Strategy as a collaborative project. The cost would be considered on basis of the allowed expenditure in relation to the priority catchments. The presenters were commended on the work that had gone into the Plan. Discussion regarding the success of the plan and how it would be measured, recorded and reported back. With this type of plan and dealing with all the different pests, the success would be variable. For example an eradication projects success would be shown by the shrinking of the population of the pest over time, whereas the success of the White Bryony project would be measured by simply not finding any in the ground. In terms of reporting back, the panel of presenters was open to suggestion of how the Committees would like to receive this. The issue of Wallabies was briefly considered. As they congregate in social groups, if their location is established would spotlighting and shooting them be an option. It was noted that shooting is not an effective control of the pest animal. There is also the added issue of people releasing them. Currently the possum awareness dog is being used, once the pest animal is found, photos are taken and we can notify the farmer of the pest being on their property. The region wide resource consent for weed control is effective in that it allows the Council to immediately tackle new areas as they are established. While rooks were bought into New Zealand as a control for certain insect pests, they are now a pest themselves. There is no longer a benefit of the Rooks, they are simply searching for and destroying newly grown crops. Cr P Buckley moved/S Yerex seconded The front page of the report states that the “purpose” is to seek Committee approval of the plan, however this was included in error as the purpose of the report is to simply receive the plan. The possibility of amending the report was considered however it was agreed that since the recommendation was correct, there was no need.

ICM15/68 THAT the report “Waikato Regional Pest Management Plan 2015/2016 Operational Plan” (Doc # 3568820 dated 29 September 2015) be received for information.


Report of Council Meeting 29 October 2015 37 Minutes of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee 15 October 2015 – page 5 SECTION B: (FOR RECOMMENDATION TO COUNCIL)

Lake Taupo Asset Management Plan File: 03 04 08 (Agenda Item 7) Doc #3568542 and 3156045 Presented by Manager Taupo/Upper Waikato Catchments (A McLeod) the report introduced the final Lake Taupo Asset Management Plan (AMP) and seeks a recommendation from the Integrated Catchment Management Committee for council approval of the plan. During questions, answers and related discussion the Committee raised or noted the following matters: The relationship between the Variation 5 and this Management Plan was

considered. At page 2 of the report it states the linkages between with the Long Term Plan and also notes that the AMP has been checked for alignment with Council Policies.

The changes in the AMP at page 53 were at the request of a Committee member who felt that the original terminology was misleading.

The average life of a stop bank was stated in the AMP as being just over 50 years. This length is based on the foundation condition.

While there hasn’t been specific consultation with Tuwharetoa on the AMP, the Lake Taupo Catchment is in constant consultation with Tuwharetoa generally. There are a number of forums that feed into the way the Taupo Catchments manage their assets and they are always conscious of the wider view.

Taupo District Council is in the process of reviewing the district plan considering climate and hydrological changes. Assets were built to a standard. We have a scheme that provides a level of service, there is a need to review and amend the scheme so that the level of service is maintained for these assets.

S Yerex moved/Cr P Buckley seconded

ICM15/69 1. THAT the report “Lake Taupo Asset Management Plan” (Doc #3568542 dated 29 September 2015) be received for information; and

2. That the Integrated Catchment Management Committee recommends to Council that the Lake Taupo Asset Management Plan (Doc # 3156045) be adopted.


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

Catchment Committee Reports August/September 2015 (Agenda Item 8) Lake Taupo Catchment Committee File: 03 02 31 (Agenda Item 8.1) Doc 3482597 Presented by the Lake Taupo Catchment Committee Chair - Sue Yerex, the Committee were provided with the minutes from the Lake Taupo Catchment Committee meeting on 26 August 2015.


There was a workshop after the meeting that was quite successful. It was a good opportunity to consider the strengths of the region and an opportunity for members to think about the process going forward. There will be a workshop at the next meeting and the intention is to nail down the key themes for consideration. S Yerex moved/Cr K White seconded

ICM15/70 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Lake Taupo Catchment Committee meeting held on 26 August 2015 (Doc #3482597) 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 Lake Taupo Catchment Committee recommends to Council

that the Lake Taupo Asset Management Plan (with amendments) (Doc # 3156045) be adopted.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/70) Upper Waikato Catchment Committee File: 03 02 32 (Agenda Item 8.2) Doc # 3562060 Presented by Upper Waikato Catchment Committee Deputy Chair - Richie Stokes the Committee was provided with the minutes from the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee meeting on 23 September 2015. The Committee held its first Public Forum with 3 speakers. It was successful and will be a continued practice at the meeting. There was strong support from the Committee for the Biosecurity Strategy, with a recommendation supporting a Waikato Regional Council submission to MPI on the National Strategy. It was noted that this would occur after a draft was out for consultation, there would a staff report and then a submission after feedback was received. Anne McLeod was commended for the great job she has done with the Committee. R Stokes moved/J Sanford seconded

ICM15/71 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Upper Waikato Catchment Committee meeting held on 23 September 2015 (Doc # 3562060) be received, and 1. the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2. the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted RECOMMMENDED 1. THAT Sally Strang be appointed Chairperson of the Upper Waikato

Catchment Committee 2. THAT the Catchment Committee endorse the funding of the 2014/15

Upper Waikato Catchment budget variance of $198,590 from the Upper Waikato Zone’s Operating Reserves



Waihou Piako Catchment Committee File: 03 02 37 (Agenda Item 8.3) Doc # 3505156 Presented by Waihou Piako Catchment Committee Chair – Robert Hicks, the Committee was provided with the minutes from the Waihou Piako Catchment Committee meeting on 10 September 2015. It was suggested that the Pest Management and Biodiversity reports be more tailored to the Committees they are being presented to. The plan moving forward is to have a regional overview that will be diluted to the issues in each catchment. In regards to Muggeridges Pump Station, concern was raised that it will still be some time before consent was gained. In response to this it was noted that

The Resource Consent application was being prepared Feedback received required the application to outline mitigation

options. The budget is very strict ($2.9 million), there was confidence that even

with this “short pause” they would still operate and complete within the budget.

R Hicks moved/Cr P Buckley seconded

ICM15/71 THAT the report of the Waihou Piako Catchment Committee meeting held on 2015 (Doc #3505156) be received

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/71) Waipa Catchment Committee File: 03 02 34 (Agenda Item 8.4) Doc # 3475482 The Committee were provided with the minutes from the Waipa Catchment Committee meeting on 19 August 2015. Cr S Kneebone moved/Cr P Buckley seconded

ICM15/72 THAT the report of the Waipa Catchment Committee meeting held on 2015 (Doc # 3475482) be received

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/72) West Coast Catchment Committee File: 03 02 38 (Agenda Item 8.5) Doc # 3481764 Presented by Interim Deputy Chair of the West Coast Catchment Committee – Rob Jolly, the Committee were provided with the minutes from the West Coast Catchment Committee meeting on 21 August 2015. The roles of Committee members was clarified and it was highlighted that Zone Committee Members and Chairs shouldn’t be held to account by Public. R Jolly moved/S Yerex seconded

ICM15/73 RESOLVED THAT the report of the West Coast Catchment Committee meeting held on 2015 (Doc #3481764) be received, and 1. the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2. the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted


Minutes of the Integrated Catchment Management Committee 15 October 2015 – page 8 RECOMMENDED 1. THAT the Integrated Catchment Management Committee approves

the appointment if Deputy Chairperson Rob Jolly to the position of Chair Person of the West Coast Catchment Committee in the interim period until such time as the Committee is able to decide a permanent replacement.

2. That the Integrated Catchment Management Committee approves the appointment of Councillor Theresa Stark to the position of Deputy Chairperson of the West Coast Catchment Committee in the interim until such time as the Committee is able to decide a permanent replacement.

The motion was put and carried (ICM15/73) Central Waikato Catchment Committee File: 03 02 33 (Agenda Item 8.6) Doc # 3491991 Presented by Cr S Kneebone the Committee was provided with the minutes from the Central Waikato Catchment Committee meeting on 1 September 2015. Cr S Kneebone moved/Cr T Bramley seconded

ICM15/74 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Central Waikato Catchment Committee meeting held on 2015 (Doc # 3491991) 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 Waikato Regional Council Staff report back to the Central

Waikato Catchment Committee on the context, feasibility and estimated cost of retrofitting the ‘Corfe Project’ for fish passage.

2. THAT the written report prepared by S Edmonds titled ‘Measuring Soil Stock and Valuing Natural Capital’ should be put before the Healthy Rivers: Wai Ora Committee for consideration.


Lower Waikato Catchment Committee File: 03 02 36 (Agenda Item 8.7) Doc # 3562836 Presented by Mike Duffy the Committee was provided with the minutes from the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee meeting on 24 September 2015. Stuart Muir was appointed Deputy Chair of the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee. There was robust conversation at the Lower Waikato Catchment Meeting regards Lake Waikare. ICM as consent holder have lodged an appeal. There will be a mediation in early December with Environment Court dates being set in June next year.


The Committee was encouraged to attend the Community Workshops in regards to the Healthy Rivers plan. Details of these can be found at: http://www.waikatoregion.govt.nz/Council/Policy-and-plans/Plans-under-development/Healthy-Rivers---Plan-for-Change/Events/Community-workshops-/ Cr S Husband moved/Cr P Buckley seconded

ICM15/75 RESOLVED THAT the report of the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee meeting held on 2015 (Doc # 3562836) be received, and 1. the following decisions made at that meeting be noted and 2. the following recommendations made at that meeting be adopted RECOMMENDATION

1. That Stuart Muir be appointed the Deputy Chair of the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee

2. THAT support be given to undertaking trial modification to a tide gate system in the Aka Aka/Otaua Catchments.

3. THAT a working group be established comprising Stuart Muir, Taroi Rawiri, Syd Goodwright and relevant Council staff and members of the project team to look at the impacts associated with the Restoration of Whitebait populations in the Lower Waikato and that the outcomes be reported back to a future meeting of the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee.

4. THAT the current and future use of detention dams be added to the existing scope of work and reported back to the Lower Waikato Catchment Committee when completed in May 2016.


Drainage Advisory Subcommittee Meetings August/Sept

WAIKATO REGIONAL COUNCIL€¦ · Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at...

Documents

Transcript of WAIKATO REGIONAL COUNCIL€¦ · Waikato Regional Council office, 401 Grey Street, Hamilton East at...