DRAFT for Community Engagement July/August 2021 INTRODUCTION The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan is a response to the growth and changes that are happening in Hikurangi. The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan is a 20- 30-year vision for how Hikurangi will change, grow Hikurangi and develop. By 2051, Hikurangi’s population PLAN IN BRIEF is estimated to grow from 3,313 to 5,017 We are seeking feedback on the draft Hikurangi Placemaking Plan. Does the By 2051, Hikurangi’s dwellings Hikurangi Placemaking Plan reflect your are estimated to grow from future vision for the area? Are we on the to right track? Are we missing anything? 1,216 1,937
Tell us what you think at The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan contains 3 key www.wdc.govt.nz/Placemaking outcomes, 4 Areas of focus, 41 Actions and a community toolkit Hikurangi has been identified as a moderate growth node within the Whangārei Growth Strategy.
Hikurangi (Moderate Growth Area) Tutukākā Coast
High Growth
Moderate Growth 2 3 KEY OUTCOMES 41 ACTIONS Connectivity Hikurangi will be a walkable, safe, 9 Ongoing/Funded Actions legible and accessible place with strong connections to Whangārei City Centre, the Planned Actions Tutukaka Coast and Glenbervie Forest. 9 Heritage and Character 14 Strategic Actions Hikurangi will be celebrated for its distinctive Heritage, Character, Culture 9 Development Guidance and Environment. Actions are structured around who leads/drives Destination them: Hikurangi will be considered a unique and vibrant destination for future residents and visitors.
Whangārei Community or Developers District Council Community or Private (or other Groups Sector 4AREAS OF FOCUS Agencies) Hikurangi Village Centre ONGOING / FUNDED Improve and uplift the profile, appearance and connectivity of the main streets of Hikurangi ACTIONS Village to celebrate its unique character, promote activity and walkability. • Footpath improvements within the Hikurangi Village. Hikurangi Sports Hub • Identification of heritage buildings and Improve the connectivity and usability of the character assessments. Hikurangi Sports park and the multiple sporting • Work with community and Northland inc. to facilities in the direct area. develop a Hikurangi Heritage trail. Lake Waro • Hikurangi Sports Hub user forum and master Uplift the Lake Waro area as a key feature and plan. amenity within Hikurangi. Continue to develop the • Improvement of Lake Waro facilities. area as a key amenity, building on the facilities and improving access and connectivity • Hikurangi Skate Park upgrade. • Work with community and Northland inc. SH1 Connections to promote and market Hikurangi as a Improve connectivity and safety between destination. Hikurangi village and SH1. Support the community • Work with hapū to improve environmental to enhance Hikurangi’s profile as a destination outcomes of the Hikurangi Wairepo/Swamp. through marketing and wayfinding. • Riparian and community planting.
3 Contents Page
02 Placemaking Hikurangi - Plan in Brief 46 Area of Focus 2 46 Hikurangi Sports Hub 04 Contents Page 48 Actions 05 Background 50 Area of Focus 3 06 Placemaking Plans 50 Lake Waro Destination 06 What is the Placemaking Programme? 52 Actions 06 Why are we creating Placemaking Plans? 07 Growth and Wellbeing 54 Area of Focus 4 08 Placemaking Strategic Drivers 54 SH1 Connection and Safety 09 Where does this plan fit in? 56 Actions 10 Future Placemaking Plans 10 Developing the Plan 60 Other Actions
12 Hikurangi Placemaking Plan 64 Community Toolkit 12 Community Engagement 64 What we do 12 Engagement with Tangata Whenua 65 Engaging with your council 66 Forms of support available 15 Location and Context 66 Customer Service 19 Current Growth 67 What is the Long-Term Plan? 21 Growth Considerations and Hazards 67 Community Development 22 Infrastructure and Transport 69 Events 25 Connectivity and Walkability 70 Planning and Development 27 Future Growth 71 Community Gardens 29 Infrastructure Capacity 72 District Promotion 31 Qualities and Characteristics 73 List of other key organisations 33 Issues and Opportunities 77 Key community contacts
34 Key Outcomes
36 Hikurangi Placemaking Plan Actions 38 Areas of Focus
40 Area of Focus 1 40 Hikurangi Village Centre 42 Actions
4 Background Whangārei is growing and developing but there is a gap when it comes to understanding how this affects specific locations in our District.
A key response within the Whangārei District Growth Strategy is to undertake a Placemaking Programme. The Placemaking Programme will create a series of spatial plans for our Districts communities and look at how they will change, grow and develop over the next 20-30 years.
The Placemaking Programme was adopted by Whangārei District Council in February 2020 and began in the communities of Tikipunga and Hikurangi.
Engagement We are seeking feedback on the draft Hikurangi Placemaking Plan. Does the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan reflect your future vision for the area? Are we on the right track? Are we missing anything? Tell us what you think at www.wdc.govt.nz/Placemaking or contact us at [email protected].
We began the process of developing the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan we set out to develop a shared vision between Whangārei District Council, the community, hapū and key stakeholders.
Engagement was very important to us from the outset but was interrupted in 2020 by COVID-19 and the continuous risk of potential lockdowns and government mandated level changes. It led to a more adaptable and flexible approach to our engagement, using more online tools as well as face-to-face engagement.
We have conducted a total of two rounds of community engagement and, with this plan, are now undertaking the third. To date, there have been 191 responses online as well as community workshops and drop in sessions held in Hikurangi. We have also conducted more targeted engagement with hapū and hapori Māori in Hikurangi.
Community feedback received indicated to us what place-specific outcomes and issues the community wanted the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan to focus on: • Connectivity • Heritage & Character • Destination
5 Placemaking Plans
What is the Placemaking Programme? The Placemaking Programme is a response to the growth and changes that are happening in the Whangārei District. While we have often planned for growth at a District level, what has been missing is the understanding of what this growth means for individual communities and neighbourhoods. A ‘one size fits all’ approach is not the best way forward for our diverse District because each place is different. Communities have their own set of qualities, unique characteristics and people who make them special.
The Placemaking Programme will create a series of 20-30-year place-based, spatial plans for how a specific community will change and grow and identify the key challenges and opportunities that come with it.
Why are we creating Placemaking Plans? Whangārei is growing and developing but there is a gap when it comes to understanding how this affects specific locations in our District.
6 Growth and Wellbeing
Central government direction is ensuring that the connected, have a high standard of amenity and can way our communities grow and develop is not just easily access services such as education, health and about the number of homes that can be built. It public open spaces. recognises the importance of amenity, connectivity and access to services. The Placemaking Plans seek Policy 1 from the National Policy Statement on Urban to achieve the same outcomes. Development provides a framework which has driven the outcomes and actions of the Placemaking As these places grow, we need to plan ahead and Plans. ensure existing and future communities are well
Planning decisions contribute to well-functioning urban environments, which are urban environments that, as a minimum:
A. have or enable a variety of homes that: i. meet the needs, in terms of type, price, and location, of different households; and ii. enable Māori to express their cultural traditions and norms; and
B. have or enable a variety of sites that are suitable for different business sectors in terms of location and site size; and
C. have good accessibility for all people between housing, jobs, community services, natural spaces, and open spaces, including by way of public or active transport; and
D. support, and limit as much as possible adverse impacts on, the competitive operation of land and development markets; and
E. support reductions in greenhouse gas emissions; and
F. are resilient to the likely current and future effects of climate change.
7 Placemaking Plans
What is the Placemaking Programme?
The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan has been driven by:
Each Placemaking Plan will identify actions which will feed into the district plan review process, the capital works, infrastructure, and transport programmes, and align their actions with the Long-Term Plan and annual plan funding. They will also act as a tool for communities providing a vehicle for community input into planning and development decisions
8 Where does this plan fit in? The Placemaking Programme is a series of non-statutory plans which look at growth and the management of growth at a place-specific level. It is a strategic programme which has come from our overarching Whangārei District Growth Strategy and sits alongside our Whangārei City Centre Planning work.
The plans are intended to be integrated, tying together the various council tools in planning, infrastructure, transport and regulatory to ensure council departments are working towards the same outcomes for our communities.
9 Placemaking Plans
Future Placemaking Plans Council have set the prioritisation of the Placemaking Plans. It is envisioned that each plan will take 12 months and more than one plan can be worked on at any one time:
Placemaking Programme
This list may be added to in the future or locations may be reprioritised subject to elected members approval. In particular, the Marsden/Ruakaka plan may be worked through separately as part of the Northland to Auckland Corridor Plan.
Developing the Plan The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan has been developed using a three-stage process: • Stage 1: Set Direction • Stage 2: Testing and Developing • Stage 3: Final Plan
The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan was developed alongside the Tikipunga Placemaking Plan and included internal workshops, discussions with external and central government stakeholders as well as three rounds of community engagement. The plan development process and key council and community milestones are outlined in the diagram on the following page.
The aim is to have the Placemaking Plans adopted by Whangārei District Council on 23rd September 2021.
10 11 Hikurangi Placemaking Plan
Community Engagement The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan was put together with the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan. This led us by Council alongside the community, tangata to focus a lot of engagement online, something we whenua, hapū and key stakeholders to build a continued to do throughout the process. shared future vision for Hikurangi which is inclusive and meaningful. The development of the pilot Placemaking Plans also helped us to understand the importance of Throughout the development of this plan, ongoing building relationships with key community groups collaboration with internal staff and the community and individuals within the community early in has guided the plan development process. This was the plan making process. From the outset, we a new approach to our plan development and will have worked alongside the Hikurangi Business be used to inform engagement as we develop future Association, Hikurangi Friendship House and other Placemaking Plans. key community groups. This led to the formation of the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan Steering Group, Engagement within the early stages of the plan a community led group which we engaged with development were interrupted by COVID-19 regularly throughout the development of the restrictions. Within our engagement we aimed to be plans. The energy from this group and the wider flexible, adaptable and creative to ensure we gained community was a key strength to the development the best possible outcomes for the communities of this plan. we were working with, while continuing to progress
Engagement with Tangata Whenua As we moved into the development of the draft Hikurangi Placemaking Plan we wanted to establish a more robust and inclusive approach to engagement with hapū to ensure their aspirations and priorities were captured within these plans. Following the first and second round of engagement council felt we had not been successful in capturing the Maori voice and wanted the opportunity to work in partnership with hapū to encourage participation within the development of these plans and future Placemaking Plans.
We worked with Te Huinga to ensure we engaged appropriately with hapū. We also engaged an external consultant to assist us in this process. A roopu kaumatua was formed to advise council and the consultant in the development of the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan Whakaaro Ahurea Report. Recommendations were made as part of this report and more work needs to be done to ensure these are embedded into the actions of the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan or inform other council work programmes.
Through the development of these plans we have created a clear process and methodology which we hope to continue to use through the development of other Placemaking Plans and strategic documents. Engagement with tangata whenua will begin at the outset of future Placemaking Plans.
12 Placemaking Plan
June / July 2020 October / November 2020 July / August 2021 The purpose of the first round of The purpose of the second round The purpose of the third round community engagement was to: of community engagement was round of community engagement • educate the public about the to: was to: Placemaking Programme • identify opportunities as well • seek feedback on the final • gain an understanding of as test our own learnings draft plan to ensure we are Hikurangi and what matters and analysis from internal heading in the right direction. most to the community. discussions and the first round of engagement.
Online Survey Online Survey 140 51 Responses Responses
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, PLACEHOLDER our engagement was limited Community Response to third to online platforms and tools. Workshop round of community We asked people to tell us what 30 engagement they think the qualities, issues Attendees and opportunities are within Hikurangi. Drop-in We also used it as an opportunity Sessions to acknowledge the context of COVID-19 and how it has affected 4 Sessions people and their feelings towards their local neighbourhoods.
13 14 Hikurangi Location and Context
Hikurangi (Moderate Growth Area)
Tutukākā Coast
High Growth
Moderate Growth
Hikurangi is a settlement located 16km north of Whangārei. It is the District’s northern gateway to Whangārei and the Tutukaka Coast. It is an important service centre to the wider community and local agricultural industry. The township was built around the mining of coal and limestone resources beginning in the late nineteenth century. Its mining history has strongly influenced Hikurangi’s settlement pattern and character. This character is reinforced by the strong sense of community and the friendly and diverse people living and working in Hikurangi.
Hikurangi’s population over the past 20 years has remained constant at around 1600-1700 people. Although the population has remained stable, Hikurangi has the potential to be a key growth area for the north of the District. *Estimated Residential Population 15 Map Key
School
Playground
Sports / Recreation
Community Halls Commercial Study Library area Cafe/Restaurant
Scenic Locations
Industry
Museum 16 Hikurangi Location and Context
The Hikurangi village is primarily a residential area and is the northern most settlement in Whangārei. The commercial area is centred around the four square, the Hikurangi pub, and many other long-standing businesses. There are also a number of community operated facilities such as Hikurangi Memorial Hall, Hikurangi Historic Museum and the Hikurangi Library. The Hikurangi Sports Park is also well used and a prominent event and social space within the community. Another key feature is Lake Waro and the Limestone Scenic Reserve located at the Northern end of Hikurangi Village. Although the focus has been on the Hikurangi Village Centre, as shown in the map, we wanted to acknowledge the connections Hikurangi has to the wider rural and coastal areas.
It was important that while the scope of the plan was centred around the Hikurangi Village, the surrounding rural and coastal areas were considered in the development of the plan.
*Data Hikurangi Springs Flat StatsNZ Area Unit
*Estimated Residential Population
* Stats NZ Census Data 2018 17 18 Hikurangi Current Growth
The growth that we are facing within the Whangārei District is largely driven by people moving to Whangārei, rather than a natural increase in our existing population. As a moderate growth area, Hikurangi has only seen a small portion of this growth. However, it has a lot more potential for growth and development. As Hikurangi grows it is important to consider the following issues: • Avoiding sprawl and focus development in and around the Hikurangi village area. • Consider access and means of travel to employment opportunities both within Hikurangi and in and around Whangārei City Centre. • Investing in core infrastructure to keep up with demand as well as identifying now the big projects we will need in the future • Aligning growth with transport services including public transport and walking/cycling opportunities • Considering our strategic partnerships and the role of central government in supporting development.
* Tech One Extract / LINZ Survey Plans Analysis Map Key
State Highway 1 Building Consents Rural Village zoned land Railway Line Commercial Centres Subdivision 2 lots Rivers & Streams Subdivision 3 - 5 lots Employment Nodes Council Green Space Subdivision 6 - 10 lots Journey to Work Other Green Space
19 20 Hikurangi Growth Considerations and Hazards
Our District has varied ground and climatic conditions. In Hikurangi, there are areas susceptible to hazards. Hazards create risks to human health and safety, and threaten property. These risks can be exacerbated by land use activities such as earthworks, building, excavation, and vegetation clearance. Development within hazard areas is discouraged and rules and controls for land use activities in these areas are within the Whangārei District Plan.
In addition, it is important to consider features which require protection from development such as outstanding natural landscapes and features, areas of importance, and productive soils. In the wider Hikurangi area buffers are identified to protect existing industry, namely Fonterra and the Winstone quarry to ensure they can operate effectively, and reverse sensitivity issues are managed.
When accommodating growth in Hikurangi we need to consider the risks from natural hazards and avoid where practicable the risks or adverse effects to the environment, people and property.
Map Key
State Highway 1 Industry Buffers
Railway Line Dicksons Quarry
Rivers & Streams Fonterra
Council Green Space Industry Buffer Other Green Space
Natural features and Hazards areas of importance Flood Prone Land Protected Natural Area Programme (PNAP) Land Instability -
Medium Risk Outstanding Natural Landscape Land Instability - High Risk Outstanding Natural Feature Mining Hazard Productive soils
21 Hikurangi Infrastructure & Transport
Infrastructure is important and supports what we early childhood education centres, one medical do in our daily lives: the water we drink, the parks centre and two community buildings. Residents that we play in and the way we get around. The within the rural village and rural residential zones quality of the environment and the wellbeing of are currently serviced by the three waters core communities are affected by choices about the infrastructure. management of, and investment in, infrastructure. As Hikurangi grows, we need to ensure that infrastructure is provided in a co-ordinated manner to service not just the village, but the wider rural area. Currently Hikurangi has one school, three
* Stats NZ Census Data 2018
Map Key Physical Infrastructure Council Green Space Stormwater Pipes Other Green Space Wastewater Pipes Wastewater Treatment Plant Water Pipes
Reservoir Telecommunications
Social Infrastructure Schools Community Halls Early Childhood Library Education Medical Services
22 * Stats NZ Census Data 2018
Infrastructure & Transport
Hikurangi village runs parallel to State Highway 1 and has two key intersections to the highway. One to the north of the village at the end of King Street, one to the south at George Street. View Road has a bridge which crosses over State Highway 1. The height limitations of this bridge causes heavy vehicles to pass through the village centre. There are currently two routes between Hikurangi and the wider Whangārei area. One is State Highway 1 which links directly to urban Whangārei, the other is Marua Road which links to the Tutukaka Coast and is part of the Twin Coast Discovery Highway.
Map Key
State Highway 1 Limited Bus Service (1 day a week)
Railway Line Existing Walking Track
Arterial Road Twin Coast Discovery Route Local / Collector State Highway 1 Road Intersection
23 24 Hikurangi Walkability & Connectivity
When considering growth, we need to avoid sprawl and focus development in and around the Hikurangi Village where residents have greater access to amenities, infrastructure and means of travel. Intensifying existing residential areas has the advantage of accommodating future growth in a way that is more sustainable and less costly to the community. However, location is very important and development needs to be within walking distance of: • an existing town/neighbourhood centre • public transport corridors or walking and cycling networks • amenities such as schools, public open space or medical and community services.
To better understand where and how we can accommodate more people and houses in and around the Hikurangi village, we mapped key facilities within a 10 minute walkable catchment. Where there was a greater density of facilities, their is greater walkability.
Map Key Number of facilities within Facilities / Amenities State Highway 1 a walkable catchment School 1 Facility Railway Line Playground 2 Facilities Rivers & Streams Sports / Recreation 3 Facilities Council Green Space Community Halls 4 Facilities Other Green Space 5 Facilities Commercial
Existing Walking 6 Facilities Library Track 7 Facilities Pedestrian Crossing Cafe/Restaurant
8 Facilities Scenic Locations
Medical Services
25 Map Key
State Highway 1
Railway Line
Rivers & Streams
Green Space We also explored areas along King Street, Valley Road and Marua Road as Redevelopment Potential possible future growth areas. However, preliminary analysis found that these Infill Development Potential areas are within flood plains and have Future (Greenfield) Development highly versatile soils which should be Potential within 10 years protected. Future (Greenfield) Development Potential within 20/30 years
26 Hikurangi Future Growth
Within Hikurangi we have identified growth areas which fall into the following catagories: Redevelopment This assesses the number of houses that could be built on a site if the existing house was removed. This assessment includes sites within a 10 minute walkable catchment of 3 or more amenities / facilities. Infill Development This assesses the number of houses that could be built on a section with an existing house. This assessment includes sites within land which is currently zoned residential. Future Development This assesses the number of houses that could be built on greenfield land on the edge of the village centre. A plan change would be needed to enable housing development to occur, where urban zoning is not already in place and future infrastructure capacity and investment will need to be considered.
Below give an indication of the forecasted population and dwellings in the next 10 and 30 years. The new residential unit ranges give a high level indication of how many units can be enabled, not necessarily built as many other things such as market feasibility and construction costs need to be considered. 2021 2031 2051 POPULATION 3,313 3,848 5,017 51%
DWELLINGS 1,216 1,466 1,937 59% *Data from Population Forecast
NEW RESIDENTIAL UNITS OVER 30 YEARS (RANGE) *These are not houses to be built. The below ranges provide an indication of what can be enabled through our District Plan.
REDEVELOPMENT INFILL DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL POTENTIAL 500 - 1,000 50 - 200
FUTURE DEVELOPMENT FUTURE DEVELOPMENT POTENTIAL (10 years) POTENTIAL (20-30 years) 400 - 700 20 - 200 *These figures are based on different density scenarios of 350m2 - 2.5ha *10 years indicates land which currently zoned urban and enables development through the District Plan. 27 Map Key
State Highway 1 Council recognises that as Hikurangi Railway Line grows further support needs to be provided to hapū and the community Rivers & Streams to ensure Whakapara Marae (Whakapara) and community halls Green Space and facilities are able to meet future capacity. Community Halls
Commercial
28 Hikurangi Infrastructure Capacity
When considering growth, it is not just about the number of homes that can be built, but also a level of understanding when it comes to connectivity, amenity and access to infrastructure and community services. The table below gives a high-level indication of each individual growth area, the development potential, and the infrastructure capacity when it comes to both physical and social infrastructure. This information will provide a level of certainty around growth management, it will help direct and prioritise appropriate future development as well as inform future plan changes and infrastructure investment.
The Information provided is based on a high-level infrastructure capacity analysis. All sites will require individual assessment under the resource consent process.
Yes, enough capacity
Yes, with planned changes Yes, with unplanned changes No capacity or intended changes
*Development potential range is based on different density scenarios of 350m2 - 650m2 and 4000m2 - 2.5ha *10 years indicates land which is currently zoned urban and enables development through the District Plan.
29 Connection to Tutukaka Coast
Connection to Whangārei City Centre 30 Hikurangi Qualities & Characteristics
As we began the Placemaking process it was Hikurangi Wairepo, Glenbervie Forest, the Tutukaka important understand what the community Coast, and the Whangārei City Centre. People also valued and cherished most about Hikurangi. referred to Hikurangi’s heritage which is reflected The most common response received was the in its older character buildings, story and the community and the diverse friendly people who people who live in this community. Other qualities live in Hikurangi. Other aspects included the included key amenities and features such as Lake village lifestyle. Many comments referred to the Waro, Hikurangi Sports Park, and the Village centre remote village feel, while still maintaining strong as well as strong views to Aratapu Maunga. connections to the adjacent rural areas,
*High level summary of feedback from Engagement Round 1 - online survey June/July 2020
* Stats NZ Census Data 2018
Map Key Visual connection and views Facilities and Amenities State Highway 1 Heritage Buildings Scenic Locations Railway Line Schools Building Age Rivers & Streams Early Childhood 1910’s Education Council Green Space 1920’s Playgrounds 1930’s Other Green Space Sports & Recreation 1940’s Community Building & Aratapu Maunga / Mount 1950’s Churches Hikurangi 1960’s Commercial Activities Connections to surrounding locations and features 1970’s Library
31 View Road Bridge runs directly over State Highway 1 and has a height limitation which causes heavy freight vehicles to travel through Hikurangi village centre. This means King Street and George Street as the main village centre, are limited when it comes to streetscape improvements and beautification.
Map Key
School
Playground
Sports / Recreation The State Highway 1 to George Community Halls Street intersection has recently Commercial been improved in terms of safety and wayfinding. The community would like to see Library similar improvements done to the northern entrance at King Street. Cafe/Restaurant
Scenic Locations
Industry
Museum 32 Hikurangi Issues and Opportunities
As part of community engagement, we wanted to Other comments included a focus on improving understand what the community identified as key entrances to Hikurangi and the Hikurangi village, issues and opportunities within Hikurangi. We also enhancing it as a destination as well as improving asked what changes would affect Hikurangi and its profile and wayfinding. Concerns were also the community in the future. A lot of the feedback raised in regard to the safety of the State Highway 1 focused on creating more amenity and connectivity intersections as well as the height limitation of the within the village centre, concentrating on three View Road Bridge, which causes heavy vehicles to key areas, the village centre, Lake Waro and the travel through the village centre. Hikurangi Sports Park. This in turn will improve safety and the feeling of safety in Hikurangi, as well as make it more appealing to residents and tourists.
Map Key
State Highway 1 *High level summary of feedback Railway Line from Engagement Round 1 - online survey June/July 2020 Rivers & Streams
Council Green Space
Other Green Space
Enhance entranceways and wayfinding signage
Areas of focus for improved amenity, safety and connectivity Safety of intersection to State Highway 1 View Road Bridge, height limitations
33 Key Outcomes Hikurangi Placemaking Plan
The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan is structured around the achievement of 3 key outcomes. These were developed with the community and capture what is valued and the opportunities both now and into the future. Connectivity • Better connectivity within the Hikurangi between key destinations such as Lake Waro, Hikurangi Sports Park, Hikurangi School and the village centre. • Improved connectivity and greater transport choice between Hikurangi and the wider Whangārei area. • Accessible and safe walking and cycling opportunities. • Safer and attractive roads and connections to and within Hikurangi including from State Highway. • Improving connectivity, walkability and activity through design to enhance safety and perceptions of safety.
In 30 years Hikurangi will be a walkable, safe, legible and accessible place with strong connections to Whangārei City Centre, the Tutukaka Coast and Glenbervie Forest. To achieve this, the Placemaking Plan sets out to:
• Create stronger links between Hikurangi village centre, Lake Waro and other key amenities. • Better connect Hikurangi to Whangārei through better transport choice with improved connectivity for walking, cycling and public transport. • Improve wayfinding and access to key areas and amenities in Hikurangi. • Improve connectivity, walkability and activity through design to enhance safety and perceptions of safety. • Improve connections and footpaths to ensure they are accessible and walkable. • Enhance and uplift the streetscape in Hikurangi Village centre to promote movement, safety and exchange. • Improve safety and connectivity to SH1 which runs parallel to Hikurangi village centre below View road and links ant King Street and George Street.
34 Heritage and Character • The strong and unique built heritage, natural character and history of Hikurangi is important to the people in the community. • Protection and enhancement of Hikurangi’s unique identity and natural environment is important as they adapt to population and demographic changes. • Strong sense of community and the friendly and diverse people are also a key aspect of Hikurangi’s character. • Unique and well-designed public spaces, streets and buildings.
In 30 years Hikurangi will be celebrated for its distinctive Heritage, Character, Culture and Environment. To achieve this, the Placemaking Plan sets out to:
• Work with the community to support the upkeep of heritage and heritage character buildings. • Improve, maintain and promote WDC’s own heritage and character buildings in Hikurangi • Protect and enhance Hikurangi’s built heritage and natural character through future planning rules and provisions. • Support information sharing and education of Hikurangi built and industrial heritage through promotion and tools such as art and heritage trails. • Better connect Hikurangi, both physically and visually, to the surrounding natural features and waterways. • Improve water quality, biodiversity and flood mitigation of Hikurangi swamp and waterways.
Destination • Enhance Hikurangi’s profile as a visitor destination as well as a place to live, work and play. • Celebrate Hikurangi’s unique character and local community. • Enable growth and change. • More diverse and well-designed activities, facilities, and amenities to cater to their community as well as attract visitors.
In 30 years, Hikurangi will be considered a unique and vibrant destination for future residents and visitors. To achieve this, the Placemaking Plan sets out to:
• Advocate for the promotion of Hikurangi as a destination. • Support the community in the promotion of Hikurangi, its amenities and its services. • Uplift Hikurangi’s village centre and Lake Waro • Support the community with community events • Create clear multi-modal connections, signage and access to Hikurangi from the South, North and East. • Work with the community to promote Hikurangi’s heritage, character and community facilities. • Develop quality recreational and youth activities in Hikurangi.
35 Actions Hikurangi Placemaking Plan
The actions within the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan are grouped around specific areas of focus. These include the three key centres within Hikurangi as well as improving the connection between Hikurangi the State Highway and the wider Whangārei area. Each actions works towards achieving the three key outcomes developed by the community.
The Hikurangi Placemaking Plan is intended to be a shared vision and actions are structured around who leads/drives them, whether it be WDC (or other government agencies) community driven or outcomes to be delivered through development.
Whangārei District Community or Developers or Council (or other Community Groups Private Sector Agencies)
When looking at the timing and implementation of the action, we have moved away from short, medium- and long-term actions. Instead each action will fall into one of the following:
IMPLEMENTATION /TIMING DESCRIPTION
Ongoing Refers to projects or initiatives which have started or are a part of an ongoing programme of work
Funded Projects which have funding within the Long-Term Plan (LTP). Timeframe is typically 0 - 3 years.
Planned Projects which have been identified within the Long-Term Plan, or within other plans or strategies. Timeframe is typically 3 - 10 years.
Strategic Idea or concept that requires further investigation. Not currently funded or planned for. Timeframe is typically 10 - 30 years, however further investigation can inform earlier timeframes.
Guidance Outcomes and actions which are informed by development or the private sector. Timing and funding not informed by council.
36 Map Key
State Highway 1
Railway Line
Council Green Space
Other Green Space Area of Focus 1 - Hikurangi Village Centre Area of Focus 2 - Hikurangi Sports Hub
Area of Focus 3 - Lake Waro
Area of Focus 3 - SH1 Connections
37 Areas of Focus Hikurangi Placemaking Plan
Improve and uplift the profile, appearance and connectivity of the main streets of Hikurangi Village to celebrate its unique character, promote activity, exchange and walkability and expand on the established community facilities and amenities.
Outcomes achieved:
Improve the connectivity and usability of the Hikurangi Sports park and the multiple sporting facilities in the direct area. Encourage diversity in activity, promotion and ease of access for residents and visitors.
Outcomes achieved:
38 Uplift the Lake Waro area as a key feature and amenity within Hikurangi. Continue to develop the area as a key amenity, building on the facilities and improving access and connectivity between Lake Waro and the wider Hikurangi areas.
Outcomes achieved:
Improve connectivity and safety between Hikurangi village and SH1. Support the community to enhance Hikurangi’s profile as a destination through marketing and wayfinding. Create stronger links between Hikurangi and the wider Whangārei area through the development of walking and cycling links, and public transport.
Outcomes achieved:
Additional actions for the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan which do not fall within the key focus areas. This includes future district plan zoning, Hikurangi Wairepo and Gomez Road Opportunity Site.
Outcomes achieved:
39 Areas of Focus
New road layouts should be well connected and avoid cul-de-sacs.
40 Area Of Focus - Hikurangi Village Centre
WDC Projects & Initiatives
Improved footpath connections
Development of walking & cycling connections New development should face the street and adjoining public space to Development of key pedestrian provide activity and safety. crossing points
Identification of heritage buidlings & character
Community Driven Initiatives
Hikurangi village arrivals / entry points Riparian planting initiatives should be focused in areas of existing council reserves for ease of access. King Street Opportunity Site
Hikurangi Heritage Trail
Riparian Planting strip (indicative) Focus this on existing council reserves along Mangawhero Stream.
Key / Context Development Deliverables
Development of new road State Highway connections (indicative) Railway Line Development to front on to and Rivers & Streams have a visual connection to new roads, green space & public space. Hikurangi Village Development of reserves around Hikurangi Village Expansion rivers & streams (indicative) (zoned land) To aid flood mitigation, bio-diversity and connectivity. Council Green Space Redevelopment to maintain building line and active frontages Other Green Space Restoration of shop fronts Existing Amenities & Facilities & verandahs 41 Areas of Focus
Improve and uplift the profile, appearance and connectivity of the main streets of Hikurangi Village to celebrate its unique character, promote activity, exchange and walkability and expand on the established community facilities and amenities.
The following actions have been identified to help achieve the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan key outcomes:
WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Footpath As the footpaths in Hikurangi Footpath Funded Planned Strategic Improvements come up for renewal, upgrade Renewals Ongoing the footpath quality to achieve Utility & better walkability, accessibility Infrastructure and positive amenity and social provider outcomes. improvements Prioritise King Street as an One Network activity street, followed by Framework (ONF) George Street, View Road and implementation Valley Road as urban connectors.
Identification As part of future District Plan Future District Plan Funded Planned Strategic of heritage reviews consider identifying reviews buildings and key buildings which have character unique heritage character and assessments contribute to Hikurangi’s history.
Identify options to protect these buildings through the District Plan or other identified mechanisms.
Road crossings Develop safe and accessible Implementation Funded Planned Strategic walking and crossing points for of walking cycling pedestrians and cyclists at & cycling key roadway junctions along connections the blue/green network. Locations are: a. Valley Road b. King Street
42 Area Of Focus 1- Hikurangi Village Centre
WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Create a walking and cycling Walking Funded Planned Strategic connection between Park Walking & & Cycling Street, King Street and Valley Cycling Strategy Connections Road (as shown) to better Review along connect Hikurangi Village to Walking & Mangawhero the wider residential area and Cycling Stream and the key amenities such as Hikurangi connection from Railway Line School, Lake Waro and The Lake Waro to Hikurangi Sports Park. Provide safe Valley Road road crossings. Prioritise: 1. Valley Road to Village Centre 2. King Street to Park Street along Mangawhero Stream 3. King Street to George Street.
Community Driven Initiatives
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Hikurangi Work with the Northland Community drive Funded Planned Strategic Heritage Trail Inc. to support the Hikurangi Ongoing museum and community in the Support and development and promotion relationship with of a heritage trail within the Northland inc. Hikurangi village centre.
King Street Work with the community to Community drive Funded Planned Strategic Opportunity Site purchase and develop the site next to Hikurangi memorial Sale of land hall. Development is dependent of community drive and funding and should: a. Contribute to an attractive village centre with active frontages and public space. b. Be a continuation of the community hub surrounding Hikurangi memorial hall.
43 Areas of Focus
Development Deliverables
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Hikurangi shop As redevelopment occurs, Redevelopment Guidance frontages and WDC will work with property verandahs owners in the uplift and WDC footpath restoration of Hikurangi renewals shop frontages and programme verandahs, to maintain Hikurangi’s unique character and village feel.
New Road Develop a new road which Development Guidance Connection provides a safe connection for Union Street to both vehicles and pedestrians Park Street between Union and Park Street, to better connect future village expansion to the wider area.
This road (indicatively shown on the map) should create a direct route, have a footpath on either side and consider appropriate traffic calming.
44 Area Of Focus 1 - Hikurangi Village Centre
45 Areas of Focus
46 Priority Action 2 - Hikurangi Sports Hub
WDC Projects & Initiatives
Improved footpath connections
Development of walking & cycling connections
Development of key pedestrian crossing points
Identification of heritage buidlings & character
Community Driven Initiatives
Hikurangi village arrivals / entry points
King Street Opportunity Site
Hikurangi Heritage Trail
Riparian Planting strip (indicative) Focus this on existing council reserves along Mangawhero Stream.
Key / Context Development Deliverables
Development of new road State Highway connections (indicative) Railway Line Development to front on to and Rivers & Streams have a visual connection to new roads, green space & public space. Hikurangi Village Development of reserves around Hikurangi Village Expansion rivers & streams (indicative) (zoned land) To aid flood mitigation, bio-diversity and connectivity. Council Green Space Redevelopment to maintain building line and active frontages Other Green Space Restoration of shop fronts Existing Amenities & Facilities & verandahs 47 Areas of Focus
Improve the connectivity and usability of the Hikurangi Sports park and the multiple sporting facilities in the direct area. Encourage diversity in activity, promotion and ease of access for residents and visitors. The following actions have been identified to help achieve the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan key outcomes:
WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Hikurangi Create a recreational Mangawhero Funded Planned Strategic Sports Park walking & cycling loop Stream / recreational around Hikurangi sports Park Street walking & park which links the park to connection cycling loop adjoining residents, improves safety, access and activity in this area
New George Develop a new playground Population Funded Planned Strategic Street within 400m (5min walk) of increase Playground the Hikurangi sports park to service residents in the southern area of Hikurangi around George, Clark and Park Streets.
Pedestrian Investigate the improvement Business Case Funded Planned Strategic paths and realignment of existing pedestrian paths Redevelopment with a focus on safety and connectivity.
48 Area Of Focus 2- Hikurangi Sports Hub
Community Driven Initiatives
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Sports hub Work with sport northland to: User forum Funded Planned Strategic • Assist in establishing a user has been Ongoing forum / governing body with established. the Hikurangi Sports hub and the sporting codes. • Undertake a feasibility study / needs assessment. • Develop a master plan or development plan for Hikurangi Sports hub including a purpose for the old bowling green site on Park Street. • Explore opportunities to increase collaboration and partnerships at an operational level between the existing and future users. Supports / aligns with the Active Recreation and Sport Strategy - action 35.
Development Deliverables
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
New Connection As redevelopment and Development Funded Planned Strategic Clark Street to development occurs, create a George Street new multi-modal connection from Clark Street to George Street to service new residential development.
Visual As development occurs, ensure a Development Guidance connection visual connection and access to Hikurangi for residents is maintained to Sports Park Hikurangi sports Park, ensuring passive surveillance and safety.
49 Areas of Focus
50 Priority Action 3 - Lake Waro Destination
51 Areas of Focus
Uplift the Lake Waro area as a key feature and amenity within Hikurangi. Continue to develop the area as a key amenity, building on the facilities and improving access and connectivity between Lake Waro and the wider Hikurangi areas. The following actions have been identified to help achieve the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan key outcomes: WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Improve existing Improve the level of service Community Drive Funded Planned Strategic facilities as well as amenities and Ongoing facilities within the existing Lake Waro Scenic Reserve. This could include: a. Shade and Seating b. Safety and passive surveillance c. Signage and access
Hikurangi skate Improve and expand on the Funded Planned Strategic park renewal existing skatepark facilities near Lake Waro ensure safety, connectivity and good access.
Walking and Create a walking and cycling Community drive Funded Planned Strategic Cycling link link alongside the railway line from Lake Waro which connects Lake Waro to the Lake Waro to Valley Road Hikurangi Village Centre via Valley reserve Road. improvements
Lake Waro Improve the access road and Funding & Funded Planned Strategic entranceway entranceway to Lake Waro Resourcing and access improving its visibility, legibility, road. signage and making it more accessible.
52 Priority Action 3 - Lake Waro Destination
WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Joint Work with Doc to develop a Resources & Funded Planned Strategic management joint management plan for the Funding within Plan and wider Lake Waro and Limestone WDC and Doc masterplan for Reserve areas. Lake Waro and This could include: the Limestone a. Protection and enhancement Reserve of the natural features. b. Vegetation maintenance, clearing and management of Lake Waro and Limestone Reserve c. A masterplan which looks at further opportunities for safety, connectivity, access and additional amenities. d. Action for single management of the sites.
53 Areas of Focus
54 Priority Action 4 - SH1 Connection and Safety
55 Areas of Focus
Improve connectivity and safety between Hikurangi village and SH1. Support the community to enhance Hikurangi’s profile as a destination through marketing and wayfinding. Create stronger links between Hikurangi and the wider Whangārei area through the development of walking and cycling links, and public transport. The following actions have been identified to help achieve the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan key outcomes: WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Walking Create a walking and Implementation Funded Planned Strategic and cycling cycling connection through of local Hikurangi connection Glenbervie forest which walking & cycling through links Hikurangi to Tikipunga, connection. Glenbervie Glenbervie and the wider Implementation Forest Tutukaka coast. of Tikipunga to Glenbervie forest connection
Hikurangi Work with NRC to support the Community Drive Funded Planned Strategic bus service continuous improvement of improvements the Hikurangi bus service Increased by: patronage a. Improvements to NZTA funding availability and frequency. b. Development of bus infrastructure such as bus stops. c. Promotion of trips to Hikurangi as well as from Hikurangi to town.
SH1 Northern Improve safety and sightlines Waka Kotahi Funded Planned Strategic Intersection at the State Highway 1 / business case safety King Street intersection improvements north of Hikurangi. This will Community Drive include: a. Vegetation removal and maintenance. b. Investigation of the reconfiguration of the intersection.
56 Priority Action 4 - SH1 Connection and Safety
WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
View Road Work with Waka Kotahi on a Waka Kotahi Funded Planned Strategic Bridge over SH1 business case for changes to Business Case the View Road bridge over Community Drive SH1, to allow for passage of heavy vehicles which are currently directed through the Hikurangi Village centre.
Hikurangi to Formalise a walking and WDC Walking Funded Planned Strategic Whangārei cycling connection along and cycling SH1 walking SH1 which connects Hikurangi strategy and cycling to Whangārei city via the SH1 safety connection Kamo shared path. improvements Regional walking & cycling strategy
Railway Improve safety for Railway use Funded Planned Strategic line railway pedestrians and vehicles at Frequency of rail crossings railway crossings. Railway crossings are located at: a. Valley Road b. Hill Street
Park & Ride Investigate opportunities for Community Drive Funded Planned Strategic park and ride within Tikipunga or Kamo to service Hikurangi Supporting residents. Park and ride infrastructure facilities should be: Funding & • In a location which is along Resourcing the bus route to ensure easy access. • Be secure and safe for both pedestrians and vehicles.
Commuter rail Explore opportunities for Population Funded Planned Strategic future commuter rail increase between Hikurangi and Investment in rail Whangārei . infrastructure
57 Areas of Focus
Community Projects and Initiatives
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Hikurangi Work with Northland inc Community Drive Funded Planned Strategic destination to support the community Ongoing marketing in the promotion and Northland inc. marketing of Hikurangi resource and village. Focus on up-skilling funding and education as well as Northland tying into existing marketing inc support streams with twin coast programmes discovery route/ the blue / education lagoon destination. initiatives
Hikurangi Work with the community Community Drive Funded Planned Strategic entranceways to build on the development and arrivals of unique arrivals into Hikurangi using gateways, visual landmarks and wayfinding signage to highlight Hikurangi’s unique character and key features and amenities.
Hikurangi Work with the community Changes to View Funded Planned Strategic streetscape to develop a unique Road Bridge over improvements streetscape that celebrates SH1 and traffic Hikurangi’s character, creates calming vibrancy and activity as well as calms traffic and driver behaviour.
58 Areas of Focus Priority Action 4 - SH1 Connection and Safety
59 Other Actions
Additional actions for the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan which do not fall within the key focus areas. This includes future district plan zoning, Hikurangi Wairepo and Gomez Road Opportunity Site.
The following actions have been identified to help achieve the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan key outcomes:
WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
District Plan Include identified future District Plan Funded Planned Strategic zoning growth areas (20-30years) review within future District Plan zoning as part of the district plan review process. Include consideration of appropriate rural subdivision. This should be considered where: • additional capacity is required, and intensification is not happening. • intensification goals are not being compromised. • there is appropriate infrastructure provision.
Dog control In response to community Bylaw review Funded Planned Strategic concerns on dog behaviour and roaming dogs, review our Dog Management Policy Bylaw.
60 Other Actions Overall Hikurangi Actions
WDC Projects & Initiatives (and other entities)
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Hikurangi Work with hapū as kaitiaki to Pump renewals / Funded Planned Strategic Wairepo meet the environmental, maintenance cultural and ecological protection outcomes of Central the Hikurangi swamp Government including the capture and funding. relocation of tuna (eels). a. Establish a working group of Council, hapū and scheme holders. b. Suspend planned renewals of pumps and pump stations (24 months) until a workable solution can be found. c. Provide additional funding support for hapū and kaitiaki initiatives. d. Investigate ongoing support including from central government.
61 Other Actions
Community Driven Projects and Initiatives
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES
Support the community in Gomez Road Community Drive Funded Planned Strategic the development of a path/ Opportunity Site trail on Council owned Resource land at Gomez Road Consent to (Gomez Park). establish the WDC to support the activities on site. community through: a. grant funding for resource consent fees. b. Further support to be considered within future LTP’s.
Work with the community Funded Planned Strategic Riparian Community drive and developers to establish Ongoing planting riparian planting around our local rivers and streams. Ensure planting maintains safety and passive surveillance and allows for connectivity, and access to rivers in key areas. It should also be considerate and appropriate for flood risk.
Development Deliverables
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES Redevelopment Enable infill and Footpath Guidance and infill redevelopment in the urban Renewals opportunities areas of Hikurangi which are walkable through: Utility & a. Future District Plan changes. Infrastructure b. Guidance for redevelopment. provider c. Guidance for historic/ improvements heritage buildings. d. Infrastructure provision
62 Other Actions Overall Hikurangi Actions
Development Deliverables
ACTION DESCRIPTION TRIGGERS TIMEFRAMES New Reserves Develop new reserves along Development Guidance the flood plains of the river network in Hikurangi village centre. This will aid biodiversity, flood mitigation and connectivity between key amenities and features.
Future Focus greenfield Development Guidance greenfield development in areas to the change review residential west of Hikurangi, between development George and King Street, and SH1.
Future greenfield Focus future greenfield Plan Change Guidance residential development(20/30 years), development in the land along Valley and Development Marau Road to the East of Hikurangi.
Commercial As part of future district plan Future District Guidance and industrial changes look for opportunities Plan changes expansion to identify land for the within expansion of commercial Hikurangi and industrial activities. This will create job creation and enable people to live and work in Hikurangi rather than commute. Reverse As development occurs consider Development Guidance Sensitivity the proximity of residents to commercial activity, SH1, Redevelopment arterial roads, railways lines, industry and sports grounds. Ensure appropriate sound insulation is considered without compromising activity and amenity to residents and the public
63 Community Toolkit Hikurangi Placemaking Plan
The purpose of the community toolkit is to direct community groups to the guidance, information and tools they can use to work towards the outcomes set out in these Placemaking Plans.
The community toolkit sets out support available from the Whangārei District Council along with other government agencies and community organisations. This toolkit is designed to bring an awareness of the different types of the support available to assist community groups to implement change in their respective communities.
What we do
The Local Government Act 2002 states that the purpose of local government is to enable democratic local decision-making and action by, and on behalf of, communities. The Whangārei District Council is responsible for a wide range of local services including roads, water reticulation, sewerage and refuse collection, libraries, parks, recreation services, local regulations such as bylaws, community development, economic development, and planning.
PLACEHOLDER “What we do - diagram”
64 DesignCommunity Guidance toolkit
Engaging with your Council
Engaging with our community and getting Other feedback your feedback is an essential part of our work. Sometimes the way we engage with you set We hear this feedback in a variety of ways, by legislation such as the Local Government through formal consultations and engagement, Act 2002 or Resource Management Act 1911. public meetings, online, or the conversations Other times we can choose how we engage with you have with your elected members. If you the community such as on strategies or plans would like to raise a specific issue or make a without legislative requirements. suggestion, you can do so by contacting one of your local elected members or by contacting Council has a ‘Significant and Engagement Council directly, your request will be sent Policy’ which guides how we engage with through to the relevant department. communities about important Council decisions. See our website for the contact details of the See our website for more info. Mayor and Councillors to discuss your ideas, issues or concerns. Opportunities to participate Council communication channels Council provides a number of opportunities for the community/individuals to participate in If you would like to be informed and know what the decision-making process. One of the most it is happening the best way to find out what is important opportunities is through the Long- happening in on our website Term Plan consultation process. Other formal www.wdc.govt.nz. consultations include, District Plan changes, We also have a section ‘What’s on’ showing Bylaw reviews and Reserve Management Plan upcoming events by date, suburb or category. reviews. We also conduct consultations outside Council also has an active Facebook page of these processes such as the Placemaking (www.facebook.com/WhangāreiDC). Programme and Community Led Projects. We regularly (every Wednesday and Saturday) publish Council news in the Whangārei Leader.
65 Community Toolkit
TYPE OF SUPPORT DESCRIPTION
Financial This may be in the form of grants or loans.
Advocacy • Council can provide a letter of support which may help achieve funding from eternal funders. • Council staff can advocate/raise actions with other Government agencies for/within their work programmes.
Technical Council can provide technical advice such as for resource or building consents.
Procedure advice Council provides guidance to help community groups navigate the project planning process to align with local government long term planning.
Network/relationship Council can assist to put you into contact with the right person or support organisation (internal and external).
Customer Service
Our customer service team is the public face of Council, providing face to face, telephone, email and Facebook information services to both residents and visitors. They are the first port of call to assist you through navigating council process or getting you in touch with the right person at Council.
Key Info
Free hotline: 0800 WDC INFO or 09 430 4200 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WhangāreiDC or Direct Message. Email: [email protected]
Customer Request Management
The community are the eyes and hears on the ground. And we want to hear from you, so we can address the problem, issue or complaint.
Customer request management (CRM) is Councils system of logging a compliant, request or query. A CRM is typically raised by a customer through the customer service team (via email, phone or in person) then gets assigned to the person/department at Council to respond. Council staff have 10 working days to reply.
66 Community Toolkit Community toolkit
What is the Long-Term Plan?
The Long-Term Plan (LTP) sets the strategic We also take into account any new issues and direction and priorities for the next 10 years, and review progress towards the ten-year objectives as how we will plan for them. The Long-Term Plan set by the Long-Term Plan. is Council’s key strategic planning document. It outlines Council’s financial situation as well as Writing a submission for the Long-Term Plan our activities and priorities for the next ten years, providing a long-term focus for decision-making. Sharing your views and feedback on the draft LTP is It also explains how work will be scheduled and an important part of voicing your views, concerns funded. and opinions. It is a key step in ensuring Council have the direction and funding priorities right. Long Term Plans must be reviewed every three years will full consultation with the public each Council’s job is to take on board the things our time. An Annual Plan is developed in the years, in community wants and expects from us – like between. providing services and managing infrastructure (things like roads, parks, playgrounds and water Annual plans pipes). Anyone can make a submission on the Long-Term Plan. Submissions may be made to The Annual Plan sets out our budget and how we Council by using the submission forms on our will finance activities and services for the upcoming website or the submission form included in the financial year. consultation document. Submitters may also ask to speak to their submission at a formal hearing. When we plan our spending for the next financial All feedback on the LTP is considered public under year, we review the previous year’s financial the Local Government Official Information and performance, updated financial figures, cost Meetings Act, so it may be published and made increases and inflation as well as resource available to elected members and the public. requirements and availability.
This gives us the information we need to make any adjustments to the upcoming year’s Annual Plan.
Community Development
Our community development team supports communities to take the lead when developing solutions to their needs, and their aspirations for the future. This is undertaken through our community development framework and includes areas such as community safety, grants and concessions, pensioner housing, community property, advisory groups, migrant support and community led projects.
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Community Development
Network and relationship building administered through Mahitahi Houora.
For community initiatives and actions, the Safer communities community development team should be the first point of contact within council. Our Community Council support the following programmes to keep Development Advisers work across many our communities safe: disciplines and alongside many organisations, • Summer safe carparks programme community groups and Non-For-Profit • Citysafe programme organisations. Council Community Development Advisers walk alongside our communities to Community Led Projects (CLP’s) navigate the complexities of local government. They may also be able to connect you to key Community Led Projects (CLP) is about Council contacts from other organisations. supporting the development of shared goals and aspirations by the community, for the community. Council’s advisory groups CLP enables people to work together and make a positive difference in their neighbourhood through Council has three advisory groups that provide modest, community led grassroots projects. Each advice to Council on Council policies, plans targeted CLP community is allocated a $100,000 strategies and projects - the Youth Advisory Group, budget in conjunction with practical support and Disability Advisory Group and Positive Ageing advice from a dedicated Community Development Advisory Group. Council also supports the newly Adviser. formed Multi Ethnic Collective in partnership with the Police, Immigration New Zealand and the Formerly known as the Village Planning Office of Ethnic Communities and Multicultural programme , Council worked alongside the Whangārei. Hikurangi, Otangarei, Kamo and Parua Bay communities to successfully complete four pilot Community funding projects.
Council has various funding schemes that Through Community Led Projects we are community groups of different kinds can apply currently working alongside the Tikipunga, to for funding a wide range of projects. Our team Waipū, Maungatāpere, Raumanga and Onerahi are available to provide help and advice to not- communities. CLP communities are identified and for-profit, volunteer community groups and pre-determined by our elected members organisations who are working to benefit their community.
We hold funding clinics and seminars to provide advice to those who have a community project in mind. For more information see our website or email us at [email protected] . We are also a contributing partner to the Kai Ora Fund which is
68 Community Toolkit Community toolkit
What is the difference between these plans and CLP’s?
Community Led Projects are focused on small scale community driven actions, and will therefore have different outcomes, and expectations to the Placemaking Programme. The Placemaking Programme is a 20-30-year vision, therefore will have strategic long-term outcomes, rather than short term actions for the community.
The Placemaking team is working closely with the Community Led Projects team which creates the following benefits:
• The community led development team have fostered key relationships with community stakeholders. • Many of the community led development discussions have raised community views which are more strategic and long-term that could be better addressed through a Placemaking Plan. • The community is more familiar with Council staff, processes and functions which will assist in understanding how our Placemaking Plans can be implemented.
Events
The Venues and Events team plan and deliver Other event support available Major and Community Events in partnership with other stakeholders, and also manages, operates The Venue and Events team manage over 300 and promotes Semenoff Stadium and Forum North street flag sites across the Whangārei District. Entertainment Centre. The team also manage a Street flags can be used for community groups portfolio of district events and undertaking event as well as event promotion. We can co-ordinate development activities. production and installation and provide advice In 2019, Council developed the Whangārei Events on design. To enquire about street flags, email Strategy 2019-2024, which provides a five-year [email protected] framework for how Council can best support Council can also assist to promote and support Whangārei’s growing events sector. your event as Part of Whangārei’s Endless Summer Festival 2021 and the Whangārei Matariki Festival. Event planning toolkit Get in touch with the team to register your event.
Our Venue and Events team have developed advice and a toolkit to assist the community or groups planning for an event (see our website). This includes venues and locations, budget and funding, insurance, promotion and marketing, risk management, run sheets and recycling/ waste minimization. For more information, email [email protected].
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Events
Council manage and maintain a large range of venues and locations across the Whangārei District. We have a list of venues including parks, community halls, libraries, sports grounds, beaches or the Town Basin. Our team also assists with forum north bookings and for venue hire/permits for events or activities on council land. Get in touch with the team to get an application form for events on council land (email [email protected] ). Based on your application we will also supply additional resources where required such as an accessibility checklist, food stall notification and so on.
Planning and Development
For simple projects over-the counter advice at Duty planner the council offices, an email or phone call through the Duty Planner service may suffice. For more For any queries or questions, we provide a service complex proposals, pre-arranged pre-application with a Duty Planner where you can speak to a meetings may be more beneficial for your project. qualified planner and obtain free advice (20min allocation time). This service is available, from Urban Design Monday to Friday between 1pm- 4pm, email [email protected] , call our contact centre Urban design is the process of making better (09 430 4200) to talk to the planner or to make an places by designing buildings, spaces and appointment in person. infrastructure that enhance the function, feel and form of towns and cities. Pre-application meeting Good urban design can help improve people’s sense of place, pride and security and achieve If you are in the early stages of planning your a higher quality of life, more efficient use of proposal, we recommend that you arrange a resources and greater economic vitality. pre-application meeting before submitting your application. It’s an opportunity to discuss your The urban design guidelines aim to improve the proposal and any planning matters which may quality of residential and commercial development affect processing of your application. in Whangārei. See our website for an urban design Applicants can request to meet relevant Council panel application form or for more information. staff to discuss potential resource consent matters prior to preparing and lodging an application, Resource consents in accordance with Councils Pre-Application meetings process. This pre-application meeting Our website provides guidance on the process council be an initial concept, technical review or for Resource Consents for subdivision and land pre-lodgement stage. Any information offered use, Notices of Requirement for Designation and during the pre-application process does not affect Certificates of Compliance for permitted activities the normal resource consent assessment and that don’t need a resource consent. See our decision-making process. website for more information.
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Planning and Development
Papakainga toolkit This ensures that any building work is safe, durable and does not endanger the health of property The Northland local authorities engaged Barkers owners, users and neighbouring properties. and Associates to develop the Te Tai Tokerau Papakāinga toolkit. The toolkit is designed to help We are also involved in a range of other activities Māori land owners understand and navigate the that are building related, for example: process for undertaking a papakāinga development • building Warrants of Fitness on their ancestral lands. Council also offers pre- • fencing of swimming pools lodgement meetings to discuss the project. For • dangerous and insanitary buildings more information see our website • undertaking enforcement action in connection with illegal building works Building Consents Contact our duty officer Council has responsibility for ensuring that the Building Act and any other associated regulations For information or to check whether your are implemented and followed in the Whangārei project requires a building consent and a code district. of compliance certificate we offer a free duty officer service. Contact 09 430 4200 or email A building consent confirms that plans and [email protected] for more specifications for the proposed building work information. meet, as reasonably as we can determine, the requirements of the New Zealand code and Building Act 2004.
Community Gardens
Council occasionally receives requests from community groups to establish community gardens on Council owned or managed land/properties. Council would support community gardens and the like when led by the community. We have developed a ‘Community Garden Policy’ to ensure that they are established in suitable places and are well managed to mitigate any nuisance to neighbours. For more information (see our website)
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District Promotion
Council supports local businesses and bags, teeshirts and reuseable cups that can be communities by promoting Whangārei as a made available to the wider public, often at no destination with the aim of attracting visitors to the cost, for events and promotional purposes. district, to stay longer and spend more. Businesses and communities can contribute to, Council supports local communities and or advertise in, our key print publication, the businesses by providing the Whangārei District Whangārei Visitor Guide, which is distributed Love It Local Facebook Group as a platform to widely throughout Whangārei, Northland and New encourage and enable businesses to connect Zealand. directly with consumers. Print and digital assets are also available for businesses and communities Promotional content can be shared via our to use. digital marketing channels i.e. WhangāreiNZ. Please contact the District Development team via com, Facebook and Instagram. Currently, [email protected] accommodation, activity, transport and some The Whangārei information centres provide retail businesses can list their businesses for free opportunities for businesses and communities to on WhangāreiNZ.com via the Tourism New Zealand promote their experiences via brochure, poster destination marketing website NewZealand.com. and digital content display.
Events can be listed for free on WhangāreiNZ.com via Eventfinda. Open source content is available for promotional purposes. A small selection can be found here.
Key online resources for communities and businesses include the following tools (note these tools are not Council owned): • Tourism New Zealand’s Domestic Growth Insight Tool (DGiT) is an insight project to help activate domestic tourism by helping communities and businesses identify their target domestic traveller audience, what motivates them to travel, and recommends the best way to market to them. • Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment provides the Accommodation Data Programme (ADP) with statistics for Guest Nights by Property Type, Tourism Area and Council districts.
Council produces a modest range of Whangārei District Love It Here! branded merchandise e.g.
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List of other key organisations in Whangārei
NAME DESCRIPTION CONTACT INFO
Northland Regional Mission is working together to create a www.nrc.govt.nz Council healthy environment, strong economy and resilient communities. [email protected]
Available support includes: 0800 002 004 • Bio fund • Community pest control areas • Environment advice • Enviro school resources • Civil defence response
Sport Northland Purpose to enrich lives through play, active www.sportnorthland. recreation and sport. co.nz/
Available support includes [email protected] • Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa fund • Kauri Club grants/scholarships 09 437 9600 • Resources/programmes • Facilities e.g. McKay Stadium Whangārei Aquatic Centre
Citizen Advice CAB provide free, confidential, independent www.cab.org.nz Bureau information and advice to anyone. CAB help people know what their rights are and how to 0800 367 222 access services they need.
Volunteering Volunteering Northland is a non-profit volunteeringnorthland.nz Northland organisation providing a recruitment and info@ referral service for volunteers and facilitates volunteeringnorthland.nz and enhances volunteering in general. 0800 865 268
Northland The Northland Community Foundation is northlandcommunityfoundation.org. Community a charitable Foundation established for nz Foundation Northland. Available support includes info@northland • Various funds e.g. Northland, Community, communityfoundation.org.nz Education fund etc. 021 558 224 • Community group resources
73 Community Toolkit
List of other key organisations in Whangārei
NAME DESCRIPTION CONTACT INFO
Department of • Lottery funds www. Internal Affairs • Crown funds communitymatters. Community matters • The Mātauranga Māori Marae Ora Fund govt.nz • Trust funds • Mātauranga Māori Marae Ora Fund • Community-led Development Programme
Northland Chamber The Chamber of Commerce and Industry of www.northchamber. of Commerce Northland (Inc) (NorthChamber) is a non- co.nz/ political, non-profit organisation which represents the full spectrum of business interests, both small and large, in Northland info@northchamber. – retailing, service, manufacturing exporters, co.nz importers and other organisations. • Available support includes 09 438 4771 • Lobbying & Advocacy • Submissions to local and central government • Economic reporting to business • Legislation updates
Creative Northland Purpose is to develop the arts and cultural www.creativenorthland.com sector within the Northland region, translating creative ideas into innovative products and kiaora@creativenorthland. services. com • Available support includes • Events and projects 09 430 0710 • Funding advice and support • Community arts toolkit Northland The• Northland Community Foundation is northlandcommunityfoundation.org. Community a charitable Foundation established for nz Foundation Northland. • Available support includes info@northland • Various funds e.g. Northland, Community, communityfoundation.org.nz Education fund etc. • Community group resources 021 558 224 • Community arts toolkit
74 Community Toolkit Community toolkit
List of other key organisations in Whangārei
NAME DESCRIPTION CONTACT INFO
Northland Inc Northland Inc is the Regional Economic www.northlandnz.com/ Development Agency for Northland northland-inc/about- encompassing the Regional Tourism northland-inc/ Organisation and central government’s Regional Business Partner (RBP) Network. Through Northland Inc local businesses can access support through Growth Advisors, including: • Business mentoring - a 12-month programme where businesses will be matched with the most appropriate mentor • Capability Development Vouchers – Access to the Management Capability Development Fund which offers businesses 50% co-funded support for coaching and training services that are designed to support the growth of in- house capability in the business. • NZTE Export Assistance • ExportNZ – Business Support • A free consultation to help identify key focus areas, provide general advice, a listening ear and support businesses navigate to find the right support and networks.
Foundation North Foundation North provides funding and support to initiatives large and small to www.foundationnorth.org.nz northlandcommunityfoundation.org. respond to their communities now and for nz generations to come. 0800 272 878 • Available support includes; info@northland • Quick response grants communityfoundation.org.nz • Community grants • G.I.F.T (Gulf Innovation Fund Together) 021 558 224
75 Community Toolkit
List of other key organisations in Whangārei
NAME DESCRIPTION CONTACT INFO
Te Puni Kōkiri Te Puni Kōkiri is the Government’s principal ww.tpk.govt.nz policy advisor on Māori wellbeing and development. They offer a range of tpk.te-taitokerau@tpk. information, services to individuals, whānau, govt.nz businesses and the community to support 0800 875 888 Māori development.
Northland District The NDHB funds and provides health services www.northlanddhb.org. Health Board for Northland. Refer to their website for more nz/ information and the services they provide. communications@ northlanddhb.org.nz
76 Community Toolkit Community toolkit
Key community contacts
NAME CONTACT INFO
Hikurangi Friendship house [email protected]
www.facebook.com/Hikurangi-Friendship-House-1642191395814884/
Hikurangi Business hikurangi.co.nz/[email protected] Association
Hikurangi Lions Club [email protected]
Hikurangi School [email protected]
https://www.hikurangi.school.nz/ Hikurangi Māori Wardens www.tpk.govt.nz/en/whakamahia/maori-wardens
Whakapara Maree www.facebook.com/whakaparamarae.trustboard.90
77 Does the Hikurangi Placemaking Plan reflect your future vision for the area? Are we on the right track? Are we missing anything? Tell us what you think at www.wdc.govt.nz/Placemaking or contact us at [email protected].
Private Bag 9023, Whangārei 0148, New Zealand Forum North Building, Rust Avenue, Whangārei Ruakākā Service Centre, Takutai Place, Ruakākā P: +64 9 430 4200 E: [email protected] W: www.wdc.govt.nz Facebook.com/WhangāreiDC