w Kaimai Catchments Forum

Operational Plan 2017-2022 Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi Engari he toa takitini

Success is not the work of one,

Publication Date: 18 December 2017 but the work of many

Plan Writers: Elva Conroy and Malc Donald, Conroy & Donald Consultants Ltd

Acknowledgments: To Forum members who took the time to input - via phone call, email, meeting, workshop, online survey - and shape this Operational Plan. Nga mihi nunui kia koutou

To the Plan Project Team: • Ngā Whenua Rahui - Robert McGowan (Pā Ropata) • Te Papa Atawhai / Department of Conservation - Jeff Milham, Jessyca Bernard, Gavin Smith • Toi Moana / Regional Council - Sarah Omundsen, Shane Grayling, Hamish Dean • Te Kaunihera ā Rohe o / Waikato Regional Council - Rien van de Weteringh, Alan Saunders, Matthew Vare

Photo taken by epitree (pg 8-9) and David Cook (pg 20). Both photographs obtained from Flickr (CC BY-NC 2.0) https://www.flickr.com/photos/kookr/5203938348 https://www.flickr.com/people/63394592@N09/ Contents

Introduction 2

Plan-on-a-Page 8

Collaborative projects 9

Enabling actions 19

Plan implementation 27

Summary of tasks and timeframes 28

Plan progress reporting 30 Introduction

The Kaimai Mamaku Range is a taonga, This is what we want to see long term, which a treasured place, and a connector of two reflects our Strategic Plan and Forum discus- regions, multiple Iwi, hapū, industry, sion/feedback to date. conservation groups and recreation groups. In particular, we want: Our Forum • Healthy stands of indigenous forests within the Kaimai The Kaimai Mamaku Catchment Forum Mamaku Ranges. (‘Forum’) represents the collective voice for • Abundant native bird species the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges, forests and its within the Kaimai Mamaku catchments. Ranges. • Fewer pest animals and plants. We bring together the multiple kaitiaki, agen- • People appreciating and cies, stakeholders and interest groups, con- treasuring the uniqueness of the nected by the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. We Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. bring a wealth of knowledge, skills and ex- • More people actively involved in perience. We bring people who care for, and the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. value, our forests, farms and waters flowing • Shared responsibility and greater into the and Te Awanui / Tau- collective impact. ranga Harbour.

Our Vision No single agency or community can achieve long term improvements in the health of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. Instead a collective The Kaimai Mamaku and coordinated approach is needed. thrive; We can achieve more hence we thrive together than apart

Our vision is the improvement of the health of the Kaimai and Mamaku Ranges and its catchments to provide for this and coming generations.

| 2 DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 3 Our Strategic Plan

In 2014, we released a Strategic Plan to artic- ulate our strategic direction over a ten-year period (2014 to 2024). It was developed following a long period of Forum meetings, surveys and sub-catchment meetings. Forum Strategic Plan Our Strategic Plan is focused on three interconnected Outcome areas: 2014-2024 3 Outcomes, 21 Objectives Biodiversity and 67 Actions Water People { It includes 21 Objectives and 67 Actions. Some of the actions within our Strategic Plan Forum Operational Plan are now ‘business as usual’ and will continue to 2017-2022 be implemented by partner organisations. 3 Priority Projects and Projects have also continued by our members, 4 Enabling Actions particularly by community groups. However, there has been limited collective and coordi- nated action across the Kaimai Mamaku project area, beyond initial discussions within focus groups.

This Operational Plan has been prepared to enable more coordinated action and collective impact by the Forum. It is focused on priority projects and actions over a shorter time period.

| 4 Our Operational Plan

This Operational Plan (‘Plan’) has been developed to identify our priority actions to In the context of this Plan, focus on for the next five years. It aligns with ‘Kaimai Mamaku Range’ our Strategic Plan and reflects engagement includes the and the outcomes, particularly a desire to see action and Northern Mamaku Plateau ownership of projects. (including Opuiaki, Mokaihāhā, Otawa, Ōtanewainuku) This Plan seeks to drive action, focused in and associated forests. areas where the Forum will have greatest impact. In other words:

“what can the Forum do, as a collective, that no one else can do?” Why does this Plan focus on a smaller area? This is essential to build momentum and • To ensure focused attention and action by demonstrate - to ourselves and to others - that the Forum over the next five years. the Forum can make a difference. • To acknowledge that a lot of progress is already occurring within mid-lower Our Operational Plan comprises: catchments via existing Regional Council programmes. • Three major collaborative projects, where the Forum can have Why does this Plan focus on Biodiversity the greatest impact. and People Outcomes and not the Water • Four enabling actions to ensure the Outcome as well? success of the Forum and/or • To reflect engagement feedback during the associated projects. development of this Plan. • To reflect the smaller geographic scope in These interconnected and complementary proj- which to focus efforts over the next five ects and enabling actions will underpin all areas years. of our work over the next five years. • To acknowledge that a lot of the water-based projects are already being We now have a path forward on driven via existing Regional Council which to take action and make a programmes e.g. freshwater limit setting greater impact, collectively.

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 5 The Kaimai Mamaku Range is a taonga of cultural, spiritual and historical significance to many Iwi and hapū for a number of reasons, including:

• source of food and plants for rongoā (healing), raranga (weaving), building materials and clothing.

• source of cultural identity, particularly in relation to maunga (mountains) and awa (wa- terways).

• location of settlements and sites of significance (e.g. wāhi tapu, urupā) as well as path- ways between these areas.

The significance of this area is evident, particularly within pepeha, waiata and pūrākau (stories) which connect Iwi and hapū with their ancestors, special places as well as historical events. There are a number of Treaty Settlements in place relating to this area (e.g. Tapuika, Waitaha, Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Raukawa etc). There are also many still in progress.

The outcomes of settlements vary but include:

• Statutory Acknowledgments and Deeds of Recognition which influence partner organi- sation processes

• Formal acknowledgment, or transfer, of specific sites

• Protocol agreements with specific Crown agencies

• Co-management / Co-governance arrangements Our Focus 2017 - 2022 Improving the health of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges, the forests and all it sustains, by connecting people, places and common goals.

Projects involving collaboration, where the Forum can  have greatest impact

Project 1: Kaimai Mamaku pest management plan Intended Outcome - Large scale pest management for the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges is coordinated, based on robust information and engagement. Project 2: Projects that involve collaboration by connecting people and places Intended Outcome - Smaller scale collective impact that connects people and places and contributes to improved health, cultural recognition and recreational use of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges.

Project 3: Showcase the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges and the Forum Intended Outcome - The Kaimai Mamaku Ranges, and the work carried out by the Forum, is valued.

Enablers to ensure the success of the Forum and/or  projects

Enabling Action 1: Information collation and mapping Intended Outcome - Information is easily accessible and in a form, that is useful for project planning or decision making by the Forum.

Enabling Action 2: Research and monitoring Intended Outcome - Forum projects are informed and guided by robust research and monitoring

Enabling Action 3: Communications and coordination Intended Outcome - Forum members are connected, actively involved and resourced.

Enabling Action 4: Strategic planning, overview and influence Intended Outcome - The Forum has backbone support and is influential locally, regionally and nationally.

 What does success look like? By 2022, we expect to see, as a result of our collective efforts:  The health of the forest within the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges is improving and supporting a diversity of life.

 Native bird species within the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges are abundant.

 More people value and are actively involved in the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges.

| 8 Collaborative Projects where the Forum can have greatest impact 

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 9 Project 1 Kaimai Mamaku Pest Management Plan

Intended Outcome: Large scale pest management for the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges is coordinated, based  on robust information and engagement.

Context

Forum members have stressed repeatedly the need to prioritise pest management – in an integrat- ed manner - to achieve large scale collective impact and restore the health of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. Forum members also highlighted the need for technical support to guide focused discus- sion and write the Pest Management Plan.

Why this project is important

This project seeks to ensure a methodical approach to large scale pest management for the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. This is because pest management across the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges is complex, particularly given the size and terrain of the area; the distribution and density of pests; the range of options available for pest control; potential cultural and social constraints; as well as the functions, responsibilities and priorities of partner organisations.

For this reason, a methodical set of steps is outlined below, to ensure that a pest management plan is developed in a collaborative manner. This in turn helps to determine appropriate options for pest management; the amount and type of resourcing, equipment and monitoring needed to carry out the work along with associated costs to support future applications for funding.

This project relies on information from Enabling Action 1 (information collation and mapping) and will run in parallel with Project 2 (projects that involve collaboration by connecting people and places).

| 10 Tasks

# What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

Contract a pest management specialist to September 1.1 guide the development of the Pest Contract in place Forum Co-ordinator 2017 Management Plan.

Terms of Reference 1.2 Establish a Pest Control Working Group. Forum Co-ordinator Early 2018 for Working Group

Collate information to illustrate, at a minimum: • the current state of health of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. • land tenure / ownership. • previous pest animal control. • current pest animal threats. Pest Management Summary report • technical reports of relevance Specialist supported by e.g. 1080 discussion document, (including maps) recent PCE report 1.3 • potential constraints Forum Co-ordinator / Early 2018 e.g. in relation to ecological, cultural to feed into Pest Mapping contractor / and recreational interests, values and Management Plan Council GIS staff uses • potential opportunities e.g. proximity to existing tracks and huts, community groups and potential partnerships with adjacent land owners – farms, commercial forest blocks.

Determine: Pest Control Working Group • management objective(s) or out- Issues and Options comes. Report Pest Management • level of control for each pest species Specialist to guide 1.4 e.g. eradication, progressive. contain- focused discussion and Mid 2018 ment or sustained control). write report • toolbox of control method options, to feed into Pest based on pests, constraints and op- Management Plan Administrative support portunities. by Forum coordinator • monitoring requirements. or partner organisation

Summary Report Shortlist 2-3 appropriate options for pest Pest Control Working / Cost Benefit management for the Kaimai Mamaku Group Analysis Ranges. Pest Management 1.5 Engagement Mid 2018 Options need to include estimated costs, Specialist to guide materials e.g. maps timeframes as well as resourcing (people) focused discussion and and summary table and resource consent requirements carry out analysis of each option

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 11 # What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

Engage with Forum members, particularly tangata whenua to determine preferred option. Report Pest Control Working summarising 1.6 Group supported by Mid-late 2018 outcomes of Method of engagement to include work- engagement Forum Co-ordinator shop(s), individual or clustered meetings and online survey Pest Control Working Pest Management Group Finalise options and prepare Pest 1.7 Plan adopted by Late 2018 Management Plan. Pest Management Forum Specialist to write Pest Management Plan Pest Control Working Group Forum Co-ordinator / 1.8 Plan implementation. - Contractor to support 2019-2022 implementation and prepare funding applications

Linkages

This project depends on the following project, prior to commencement: • Enabling Action 1 - Information Collation and Mapping

This project will be carried out in parallel with: • Project 2 - Projects that involve collaboration by connecting people and places. • Enabling Action 2 - Research and Monitoring

This project relies on

• Good information from Enabling Action 1 - Information Collation and Mapping. • Clear alignment with other projects. • Coordination of working group, likely via Pest Management Specialist and Forum Coordinator. • Focused discussion at working group meetings. • Funding to develop pest management plan – contract facilitator and plan writer; cost of holding working group meetings and forum engagement events. • Technical support via contractor who is knowledgeable about pest management and is able to guide focused discussion and prepare a robust management plan. • Implementation of a pest management plan requires funding and trained people (e.g. volunteers, contractors)

| 12 Project 2 Projects that involve collaboration by connecting people and places

Intended Outcome: Smaller scale collective impact that connects people and places and contributes to  improved health, cultural recognition and recreation- al use of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges.

Context

Engagement with Forum members highlighted the challenges associated with trying to improve the health of such a large area of forest. It was instead easier for some to visualise being part of local projects. There are many conservation and recreation-related projects occurring within or ad- jacent to the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. This presents an opportunity to leverage off existing on-the- ground action to broaden the collective impact of the Forum.

Why this project is important

It is essential find a couple of projects, of a reduced scale, to get Forum members working together progressively across both regions. It would work towards the creation of greenbelts/ecological cor- ridors/networks that extend across and beyond the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. This in turn recognises the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges as the heart of the Forum, the connector of the two regions.

Working on a smaller scale helps to: • connect and expand existing groups and projects. • identify areas where new groups could be established. • establish local relevance for Forum members. • identify opportunities to achieve multiple benefits e.g. improved access, cultural recogni- tion, tourism ventures etc. • see tangible progress and build momentum for the Forum as a whole • demonstrate to funding providers that the Forum is capable of collective impact.

Possible locations to connect people and places include the northern Kaimai Ranges (e.g. from Whakamarama to Wairere Falls and northwest) and the Mamaku plateau (e.g. Otawa, west to Ōtanewainuku, Opuiaki to Mokaihāhā). The specific areas will need to be deter- mined with Forum members.

This project relies on information from Enabling Action 1 (information collation and mapping) and will run in parallel with Project 1 (Pest Management Plan).

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 13 Tasks

# What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

Continue working with key people and groups within potential corridors / networks e.g. iwi/hapū/marae, community Annual Forum co- 2.1 Forum Co-ordinator 2018-2022 groups, landowners as well as the ordinator report recreation, education and tourism sectors.

Continue engaging with tangata whenua to:

• identify areas requiring greater cultural recognition. • articulate what “tangata whenua are supported and encouraged as their role as kaitiaki” means in practice. • identify linkages to potential corri- Annual Forum co- 2.2 dors/networks, particularly in relation Forum Co-ordinator 2018-2022 to cultural redress land, commercial ordinator report redress land and Māori Land within the geographic scope of this Forum. • explore opportunities to incorpo- rate Matauranga Māori into Forum projects. • improve access to plants for rongoā Māori (medicinal use).

Engage with landowners adjacent to the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges to identify Forum Co-ordinator/ 2.3 Summary Report 2018-2022 opportunities for collaboration. contractor

Identify potential corridors/networks based on areas: • with iconic fauna e.g. kokako, kiwi, short and long tailed bats, Kauri snails, Hochstetter‘s frog, etc. • where existing conservation efforts could be expanded. Forum Co-ordinator/ 2.4 • where new community or conserva- Summary Report 2018-2022 contractor tion groups could be established. • with barriers to fish passage. • with significant ecological, historical and/or cultural values and uses. • with opportunities for mixed use e.g. recreation, tourism.

Find a range of ways to connect people to projects with potential corridors/networks, such as: • sharing what each other are doing and wanting to do. Annual Forum co- Forum Co-ordinator/ 2.5 • arranging field trips, training and on- 2018-2022 ordinator report contractor site demonstrations. • preparing a ‘greenbelt’ strategy or plan, if required. • sourcing funding to support projects.

| 14 Linkages

This project depends on the following, prior to commencement: • Enabling Action 1 - Information Collation and Mapping

This project will be carried out in parallel with: • Project 1 - Kaimai Mamaku Pest Management Plan.

This project relies on

• Good information from Enabling Action 1 (Information and Collation). • Clear alignment with Project 1 (Pest Management Plan). • Continuous communication – in establishing greenbelt projects and keeping everyone in- volved and up to date, particularly with many projects occurring in parallel. • Coordination of Greenbelt working groups, likely via Forum Coordinator. • Focused discussion at working group meetings. • Funding to develop greenbelt plans – potentially contract facilitator and plan writer; cost of holding working group meetings and forum engagement events.

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 15 Project 3 Showcase the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges and Forum

Intended Outcome: The Kaimai Mamaku Ranges,  and the work carried out by the Forum, is valued.

Context

The Kaimai Mamaku Ranges are the heart of the Forum. Engagement with Forum members highlighted the need for people to appreciate and value the ranges to in turn, feel con- nected and want to be more active involved, i.e. use a walking trail, take part in a restoration proj- ect or community planting day.

The Forum has been in place since 2010. Feedback to date suggests that the Forum needs a bigger profile to become more effective and influential, particularly with funding providers.

Why this project is important

This project seeks to raise public and Forum awareness about the: • values, issues and special places associated with the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. • iconic fauna found within the forests e.g. kokako, kiwi, tailed bats, Kauri snails, Hochstetter‘s frog, etc. • impacts associated with pest animal and plant threats as well as adjacent land use and activi- ties. • important role that the Forum plays in the health of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. • the Forum’s priority projects and potential opportunities for collaboration. • the breath of skills, knowledge and experience within the Forum.

| 16 Tasks

# What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

Forum Steering Group Connect with our local communities. This supported by Forum includes: co-ordinator • Forum news and updates via com- Annual Forum co- munity newspapers and social media. Communications 3.1 ordinator report 2018-2022 • Working with local schools. support (contractor or • Arranging and/or coordinating provided by a partner events (e.g. Matariki, Conservation organisation) Week)

Forum Steering Group Annual Forum co- supported by Forum Share information regionally and nation- ordinator report co-ordinator ally. This includes: 3.2 • Preparing short videos featuring Annual meeting Communications 2018-2022 Forum members and projects. with Predator Free support (contractor or • Presenting at national conferences. NZ Trust provided by a partner representatives organisation)

Annual presentations to elected members Number of Forum Steering Group (DOC, regional and district councils) to presentations to supported by Forum ensure they are aware of Forum projects 3.3 elected members co-ordinator 2018-2022 and funding requirements.

Forum Steering Group Hold a biennial Forum symposium for Biennial Sympo- supported by Forum 3.4 2019, 2021 Forum members and general public. sium co-ordinator

Forum Steering Group Pursue opportunities for greater visual At least six new recognition of the ecological, cultural and supported by Forum 3.5 signs, pou or inter- 2018-2022 historical values associated with the co-ordinator pretation panels Kaimai Mamaku Ranges.

This project relies on

• Communications support to ensure information about prepared about the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges and the Forum. • Regular contact with Forum members for publication content. • Funding to hold an annual symposium or field day.

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 17 | 18 Enabling actions to ensure the success of the Forum and/or projects 

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 19 Enabling Action 1 Information collation and mapping

Intended Outcome: Information is easily accessible  and in a form, that is useful for project planning or decision making by the Forum.

Context

Forum members already hold a lot of useful information however it is not easily accessible or in a form that is useful for the Forum.

Information held by Forum members include: • Information within the Kaimai • Sites and areas of cultural significance, Catchments State of Environment as indicated within publicly available Report1. documents such as Iwi and hapu • Location of existing vegetation, pest management plans and Deeds of and invertebrate monitoring sites. Settlement. • Location of Significant Natural Areas • Location of Crown and private land and High Value Ecological Areas. (General and Māori Land). • Location of pest control operations • Track maps from Department of and monitoring. Conservation and Recreation groups. • Monitoring results e.g. water quality • Historic buildings, places and archaeo- monitoring; consent compliance logical sites (of Māori and European monitoring. origin). Why this enabling action is essential

Knowledge is power. This project seeks to ensure that, by having this information in one place, ev- eryone understands what areas are special (e.g. for ecological, cultural and/or recreational reasons), what work is already happening as well as gaps in information. It also means that we have quality information in which to gauge whether we are making a tangible difference to the health of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges.

This enabling action is essential to guide decisions relating to other projects e.g. what further research or monitoring is needed; where we need to focus pest control or ecological restoration efforts, etc.

1 Prepared by Wildlands Consultants. This includes maps showing land cover; indigenous forest pattern; pest control operation; location of DOC protected areas, ecological areas and ecological districts as well as areas protected by covenant, QEII or Nga Whenua Rahui.

| 20 Tasks

# What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

GIS layers Forum Co-ordinator Collate information relating to the Kaimai I1 / contractor to liaise Early 2018 Mamaku Ranges (as outlined in the Context). Copies of technical reports with Forum members

Atlas of maps Map information relating to the Kaimai (printable) Forum Co-ordinator I2 Early 2018 Mamaku Ranges. New online GIS / contractor viewer

Update / overhaul Forum website to: • include an online GIS map viewer Updated / over- Forum Co-ordinator I3 • become a repository of information from Mid 2018 hauled website / contractor Tasks I1-I2 • be smartphone accessible.

Establish an online dashboard on the Forum website comprising plain English report cards Mid 2018 relating to: Online Dashboard then annually • Operational Plan progress thereafter I4 Report cards Forum Co-ordinator • Forum progress against the Vision • State of the environment of the whole catchments – water quality, water quantity, etc.

Continue collating Forum-related 2018-2022 information into one place. This includes I5 Updated website Forum Co-ordinator (updated at outcomes of research and/or monitoring, least every 3 meeting notes, presentations. months)

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 21 Enabling Action 2 Research and monitoring Intended Outcome: Forum projects are informed  and guided by robust research and monitoring information.

Context

Knowledge is constantly evolving, particularly with regards to environmental management, pest control methods as well as the alignment of science and Matauranga Maori. For this reason, we need to ensure we are keeping up with contemporary knowledge upon which to base decisions.

Why this enabling action is essential

To ensure that Forum members have enough quality information in which to guide projects and de- cisions. It also means that the Forum, and associated projects, can adapt as a result of innovation, research or technological change.

Tasks # What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

Develop an integrated monitoring programme, by:

• aligning existing monitoring carried out by Monitoring Forum Steering R1 Mid 2018 forum members. This includes vegetation, bird, programme Group pest and invertebrate monitoring. • identifying gaps in monitoring.

Develop and trial the use of indicators to measure Forum Steering and monitor the cultural health of freshwater, Cultural Group in collabo- R2 2019-2022 indigenous fauna and indigenous flora within the indicators ration with tangata Kaimai Mamaku Forest. whenua Explore opportunities for partnerships with research Forum kept Forum Steering R3 2018-2022 organisations or tertiary education providers. up to date Group Support: • research and/or engagement to articulate tangata whenua and community values and interests relating to water quality, water quantity and sediment limit setting. Forum kept Forum Steering R4 • innovative pest monitoring and control 2018-2022 up to date Group technologies. • research about the impact of climate change on the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges, including the forests, headwaters and downstream catchments. Forum Steering Commission an updated State of the Environment Updated SOE R5 Group via 2019-2020 Report for the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. Report contractor

| 22 Enabling Action 3 Communications and coordination

Intended Outcome: Forum members are  connected, actively involved and resourced.

Context

The Forum exists and continues to exist because of its people. Forum members bring to the table a wealth of skills and knowledge locally, regionally and nationally. The collective impact of the Forum can only be achieved if Forum members feel connected and are kept up-to-date, particularly with the number of projects running in parallel. The three projects identified within the Plan rely heavily on having a co-ordinator, who is supported and resourced accordingly.

Why this enabling action is essential

To ensure that Forum members are kept up-to-date and connected to maintain relationships, trust and momentum. This enabling action also seeks to ensure that projects are coordinated, resourced and funded to see on-the-ground action.

Tasks # What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

Maintain an up-to-date list of Forum mem- bers, including email addresses. Mailing List CI This includes setting up a subscribe / (checked six Forum Coordinator 2017-2022 unsubscribe function on the Forum website monthly) and within Forum newsletters.

Forum website (updated Forum members are kept up to date about quarterly) matters including: • progress on actions within the Circulation of a Operational Plan. regular Forum Forum Coordinator • what events and activities are coming up newsletter every and/or over the next 6-12 months. 6-8 weeks Communications C2 • what other Forum members have been 2017-2022 Forum meetings support (e.g. provid- up to – share learnings. ed by a partner • results of research and monitoring. organisation) • what is happening regionally and Annual report nationally and whether a Forum submis- cards sion is needed. • funding opportunities. Annual Forum event

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 23 # What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

Have a Forum coordinator(s) in place. The primary role of the coordinator is to keep the Forum connected: • oversee relationship management and communication with Forum members • coordinate and provide support to Forum projects. • oversee Forum monitoring and Forum coordina- Partner organisations reporting. C3 tor(s) in place at all and/or Forum 2018-2022 times Steering Group The secondary role of the coordinator is: • Logistical support e.g. organise work- shop venues and catering • Lead engagement events e.g. work- shops, annual symposium.

This role could be shared.

Prepare and maintain a funding calendar including criteria, information requirements Funding and deadlines. This is to include funding for Calendar on C4 projects carried out by the Forum and/or Forum website Forum Coordinator 2018-2022 Forum members. (updated six monthly)

Explore alternative options to fund Forum projects and/or coordination and/or administration e.g. crowd sourcing, Regular updates to C5 endowment fund, corporate sponsorship, Forum Coordinator 2018-2022 the Forum corporate partnerships, internships, second- ment etc

| 24 Enabling Action 4 Strategic planning and influence

Intended Outcome: The Forum has backbone  support and is influential locally, regionally and nationally.

Context

There is untapped potential with the Forum. It is the collective voice of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges and therefore should have a greater role in terms of influencing local, regional and national plan- ning and projects. This requires a thorough understanding of national and regional priorities, how and when to input or submit and opportunities for partnerships and/or funding.

For example, a lot is happening in the water space to implement the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPSFW), which includes water quality and quantity limit setting within the Tauranga Harbour, Waihou and Piako Catchments. It also includes sediment limit setting within the Waihou Catchment to implement the Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Plan (HGMSP). These projects will be held within the next three years and therefore, the Forum will need to be determine their role in influencing these programmes at all levels (governance and on the ground) and how best to get involved.

Another example relates to the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges, which is not a nationally recognised area (e.g. DOC Great Walk or DOC Battle of the Birds Pest Control Area). Opportunities need to be explored to determine how to raise the profile and importance of the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges at a national level.

Why this enabling action is essential

To be more focused, effective and influential. A new Forum Steering Group is proposed - a smaller group who will ‘lead’ the Forum from behind, providing much-needed backbone support and guid- ance for the Forum and the coordinator. They will also ‘own’ this Operational Plan, be ultimately responsible for its implementation.

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 25 Tasks

# What we plan to do Output Lead Contributor Time frame

Have a Forum Steering Group in place to provide: • backbone support and strategic over- view for the Forum. Terms of S1 • overall ownership of the Strategic Reference for Forum Steering Group 2018-2022 Plan and Operational Plan. Group • support and guidance for the Forum coordinator.

Review and update the Terms of Reference Updated Forum Steering Group Late 2018 and S2 for the Forum. Terms of in consultation with Late 2021 Reference Forum Members Identify ways in which: • To raise the awareness within the Forum about the functions, priorities and constraints of partner organisa- tions, tangata whenua and each rep- resentative group within the Forum. • The Forum is best involved with the S3 Annual Report Forum Steering Group 2018-2022 implementation of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Manage- ment and Hauraki Gulf Marine Spatial Plan. • To influence Council Long Term / Annual Plan processes.

Keep abreast of what is happening locally, regionally and nationally. Identify where Quarterly S4 Forum coordinator 2018-2022 the Forum needs to input or submit. report

Identify and pursue opportunities to build Annual Forum capacity within the Forum. This includes S5 Coordinator Forum Steering Group 2018-2022 training, secondment and mentoring. Report

| 26 Plan Implementation The first 12 months of this Plan is a critical period for the Forum, in terms of re-connecting, getting started on projects and building momentum.

Resource requirements

• Forum Co-ordinator - initially focused on relationship management, communication and get- ting projects underway. • Pest Management Specialist to guide Project 1 - Pest Management Plan • Mapping Specialist to support Enabling Action 1 - Information Collation and Mapping. • Communications and engagement support - initially provided by the Bay of Plenty Regional Council (or incorporated into Forum coordinator role).

A range of sources will be explored to fund the above and ensure that Forum members, particularly tangata whenua and unpaid volunteers, are able to be actively involved in Plan implementation.

Partner Organisation Support

The ongoing support and involvement of the partner organisations is essential to the success of the Forum. Support, in addition to funding, includes: • Technical data and advice • GIS mapping support • Peer review • Administrative support (e.g. printing, workshop logistics, venue use) • Project/task management. • Contractor management.

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 27 Summary of Tasks and Time Frames Projects involving collaboration where the Forum can have greatest impact

# 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Project 1 Kaimai Mamaku Pest Management Plan 1.1 Contract Pest Management Specialist 1.2 Establish a Pest Control Working Group 1.3 Collate and map information 1.4 Issues & Options Report 1.5 Shortlisted Options 1.6 Engagement on Options 1.7 Pest Management Plan 1.8 Plan Implementation Project 2 Projects that involve collaboration by connecting people and places Continued engagement within potential 2.1 corridors / networks Continued engagement with tangata 2.2 whenua Engagement with landowners adjacent to 2.3 Kaimai Mamaku Ranges 2.4 Identify potential corridors / networks Connect people and projects within po- 2.5 tential corridors / networks Project 3 Showcase the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges and Forum 3.1 Connect local communities Share information regionally and 3.2 nationally 3.3 Annual presentation to elected members 3.4 Biennial Forum Symposium 3.5 Greater visual recognition

| 28 Enablers to ensure the success of the Forum and/or projects

# 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Enabling Action 1 Information Collation and mapping I1 Collate information I2 Map information I3 Update / overhaul website I4 Online dashboard I5 Continue updating website Enabling Action 2 Research and Monitoring R1 Integrated monitoring programme R2 Cultural health indicators R3 Partnerships with others Support research and monitoring by R4 others R5 Updated SOE Report Enabling Action 3 Communications, coordination and resourcing C1 Forum mailing list C2 Keep Forum members up to date C3 Forum Coordinator role C4 Funding calendar C5 Funding options Enabling Action 4 Strategic Planning and Influence S1 Forum Steering Group S2 Review Forum Terms of Reference Identify ways to raise profile and S3 influence S4 Forum input / submissions S5 Capacity building

DRAFT KMCF Operational Plan 2017-2022 | 29 Plan Progress Measuring Overall Progress The intended outcome or result of this Plan is as Reporting follows:

To be effective, this Operational Plan relies on “By 2022, we expect to see, as a result of our active implementation of tasks and providing collective efforts: meaningful updates on progress. • The health of the forest within the Kaimai Mamaku Ranges has improved For this reason, Results Based Accountability and is supporting a diversity of life. (RBA) will be used to ensure that Forum and • Native bird species within the Kaimai working group meetings are more focused on Mamaku Ranges are abundant. results and overall progress against the Oper- • More people value and are actively ational Plan. This in turn Forum members (and involved in the Kaimai Mamaku funding providers) to know that they, as a col- Ranges.” lective, are making a difference. For example, progress can be measured using the following indicators: Reporting on Operational • Area and diversity of indigenous forest Plan Progress (i.e. has this increased/improved?) • Extent and condition of specific forest Reporting at Forum and working group meet- types and/or tree species e.g. Rata ings will be focused on three key (i.e. has it improved?) questions: • Population status of selected threat- • How much did we do? ened/at risk species e.g. what tasks were carried out? (i.e. has this improved?) • How well did we do it? • Area of land receiving treatment for pest e.g. what % of tasks were animals (i.e. has this increased?) completed? • Abundance of pest animals and plants • Are we better off? (i.e. has this decreased?) e.g. did we contribute to each • Number of community groups and/or of the intended outcomes listed volunteers (i.e. has this increased?) against the projects and enabling actions? Reporting on Overall Annual Reporting and Progress

Planning An updated State of the Environment Report for the Kaimai Mamaku Forest will be prepared in An annual report will also be produced along 2020/21. It will be used to compare the condi- the same lines. It will also outline: tion of the Forest between 2010 and 2020, using • Barriers to implementation of tasks the above indicators. This would then be (e.g. resourcing, funding). repeated in 2030. • What resourcing (funding, people) has been secured to implement projects. This report would inform whether the Forum is • Priority projects for the coming 12 contributing to the improved health of the months. Kaimai Mamaku Ranges. It would also guide future Forum projects.

| 30 www.kaimaicatchments.org