Appendix 6: Policy Extracts (Part 5.3) from the RLTS

Ruakura Private Plan Change | Assessment of Environmental Effects

5.3 High priority regional 4. Promoting opportunities to optimise the investment in the Waikato Expressway. challenges The analysis of the key transport trends and issues and its There is concern that the benefits of the expressway may likely impact on the regional land transport network has not be fully realised unless the project is fully integrated led to the identification of the following priority challenges with local and inter-regional networks and land use for the transport sector in the Waikato region. planning. A network plan has been prepared by the NZ Transport Agency in collaboration with its Future Proof 1. Inter-regional freight growth and doubling of partners and this is a critical element to the Expressway freight from within the Waikato region. project. The plan will ensure the development of the Waikato Expressway and local transport planning can be The freight task for the Waikato region is projected to fully integrated to achieve maximum efficiency for the double over the next 20 years, with a significant proportion whole transport network. being inter-regional freight. Such growth in demand will place significant burdens on the transport network and 5. Addressing the need for better access to services could have an adverse impact on the region’s economic for isolated rural communities. growth as a result of congestion. The region needs to ensure the transport network is planned and developed to A major challenge in the future will be to ensure that the cater for future freight movements in order to achieve its transport system can continue to cater to the mobility economic development objectives. and access needs of rural communities while remaining affordable for its funders and users. While much of the region’s freight growth will continue to be by road, rail will play an increasingly important role 6. Improving urban design and layout to provide for in the transport system, especially for longer distance accessible journeys. movements to other regions and providing links between Waikato producers and their markets. A major challenge is to ensure the transport network can provide better choice for people travelling to work 2. Future population growth and demographic by discouraging land use patterns which make it difficult change. to provide for effective transport options such as public transport. These include gated community developments In the future, there will be a larger number and proportion and cul-de-sacs without pedestrian connectivity and/or of older people in the region. This will have an impact on carriageway widths which do not allow for unrestricted the type of transport needed to enable people to continue movements of buses or cyclists. Lower residential densities to participate in society and access essential services, can also lead to ineffective public transport due to the particularly in the rural context. A major challenge will be spread out nature of urban areas. to develop and promote alternative transport modes such as public transport and walking and cycling to meet the 7. Progressing energy efficiency initiatives and rising demands from the expected population growth. resilience to security of energy supply.

3. Improving road safety in the region. A key transport challenge for the region is to incrementally decrease its reliance on fossil fuels through promoting Looking to the future, the key challenge for the region will more energy efficient transport modes (such as public be to make the transport system safer and to reduce the transport) and to ensure the network is being managed number and severity of road related crashes. This will need efficiently to optimise existing capacity. to be managed within a constrained funding environment and in the face of increasing demand for limited road space 8. The need to integrate planning of urban form, from a variety of conflicting transport modes differing in infrastructure and funding. functionality, size and speed. A key transport challenge for the region will be to move towards a more compact urban form where development is focused in and around existing towns. The direction for this has been set through growth management strategies 57 such as Future Proof, Taupo District 2050 and Coromandel Blueprint and carried through in the proposed RPS. The aim of such an approach will be to reduce the need to travel, encourage the use of alternative modes and to provide and fund infrastructure more efficiently.

Section 30(1)(gb) of the RMA, which is also referenced in the LTMA, requires strategic integration of infrastructure with land use. A major challenge for the region will be to consider land use and transport in an integrated manner in terms of planning documents and planning approaches, inter-agency collaboration and practical implementation.

The GPS places high emphasis on economic productivity and safety by focusing a high proportion of transport investment on the seven Roads of National Significance (RONS). Whilst this has significant benefits for the region with respect to the Waikato Expressway, this has resulted in a decrease in national funding for other modes such as walking and cycling. This provides a challenge for funding and delivering certain infrastructure elements of this strategy and may have consequential effects on the integration of land use and transport infrastructure.

Dedicated cycleway in Hamilton. 58

Appendix 7: Existing WDP (UEPA) Provisions

Ruakura Private Plan Change | Assessment of Environmental Effects

25.2

Prohibited Activities

25.5 The following activities are prohibited activities for which no resource consent shall be granted:

Land Use (a) deleted (b) a refuse landfill in the Landscape Policy Area

Building (c) deleted NOTE: Rules 25.5(d) and (e) were made operative as at 11 June 2009. Subdivision (d) subdivision of land resulting in more than 2 additional allotments (excluding a utility allotment, access allotment or conservation house allotment) containing high quality soils from any allotment with a Certificate of Title issued prior to 6 December 1997, unless the land forms part of the Hampton Downs Motorsport Park as shown on the Planning Maps and is developed in accordance with Schedule 25D. (e) subdivision of land resulting in any additional allotments (excluding a utility allotment, access allotment or conservation house allotment) containing high quality soils from a certificate of title issued after 6 December 1997, except where the allotment being subdivided (i) was created by a process other than subdivision under the Resource Management Act 1991, or (ii) was created by a boundary adjustment between land parcels contained in certificates of title issued prior to 6 December 1997, or (iii) was created by subdivision consent granted between 28 April 2001 and 25 September 2004, solely for a boundary relocation under the former district plan, or (iv) is land that forms part of the Hampton Downs Motorsport Park as shown on the Planning Maps and is developed in accordance with Schedule 25D.

(f) The following apply only in the Urban Expansion Policy Area

(i) disposal or storage of solid waste (excluding contaminated land remediation under Rule 25.30) (ii) hazardous waste storage, reprocessing or disposal (excluding contaminated land remediation under Rule 25.30) (iii) educational, training or correctional facilities involving more than 10 people (iv) extractive industries (v) commercial activities (excluding a produce stall) (vi) industrial activities (vii) traveller’s accommodation for more than 5 people, (viii) motorised recreation facilities (ix) new roads, except in compliance with indicative roads on the planning maps, and excluding upgrading and widening of established roads (x) buildings over 2,000 m2 gross floor area (xi) subdivision of allotments less than 5000 m2, or an allotment average below 1.3 ha.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 Appendix 8: Existing WDP Maps and Schedules

Appendix 8: Existing WDP Maps and Schedules

Ruakura Private Plan Change | Assessment of Environmental Effects

25.46

Schedule 25A: DELETED

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.47

Schedule 25B – Waikato Innovation Park

25B.1 Application of the Schedule In this schedule: “Waikato Innovation Park” means the land shown on Planning Maps and the Concept Layout Plan; “Concept Layout Plan” means the concept layout plan in this Schedule.

References to ‘Development Area’ and ‘Open Space Area’ are reference to the same named areas identified on the Concept Layout Plan (Figure 25BA).

25B.3 Application of Rural Zone Rules Despite any other rule in Chapter 25, rules 25.17, 25.49, 25.51, 25.52, 25.54, 25.55, 25.56, 25.70-83 do not apply to Waikato Innovation Park (WIP), and 25.39.1(d) does not apply in the Open Space Area. All other rules in Chapter 25: Rural Zone apply.

Unless otherwise stated permitted activities are to be carried out in accordance with the Concept Layout Plan (Figure 25BA).

Rule table for Waikato Innovation Park

ITEM PERMITTED RESOURCE CONSENT 25B.4 25B.4.1 25B.4.2 Type of activity In addition to any activity permitted in the Rural Any activity that does not comply Zone, any activity that complies with all effects and with a condition for a permitted building rules is a permitted activity if it is: activity is a discretionary activity. (a) teaching and conference facilities, and (b) agricultural and horticultural research activities, and (c) advanced research and technology development, provided that any manufacturing activity: (i) plays a secondary role to the research and technology development function, and (ii) does not exceed 30% of the gross floor area of buildings in the Waikato Innovation Park at any time, and (iii) is conducted within buildings, and there is no exterior work or storage of materials or product, and (iv) is directly related to research and technology development activity permitted at Waikato Innovation Park, including prototype manufacture, initial run product development, or manufacturing method development, and (d) activities ancillary to activities in (a), (b) and (c), including travellers accommodation, educational institution and commercial activities.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.48

ITEM PERMITTED RESOURCE CONSENT 25B.5 25B.5.1 25B.5.2 Access, vehicle Any activity is a permitted activity if: Any activity that does not comply entrance, parking, (a) car parking of one space per 35m2 of gross with a condition for a permitted loading and floor area, and activity is a discretionary activity. manoeuvring space (b) access to Ruakura Road is limited to the existing entrance near the eastern boundary of Lot 3 DPS 66853, and (c) private roads have a carriageway width of at least 6m, and (d) private roads, footpaths and cycleways are designed and constructed in accordance with Appendix B: Engineering Standards. 25B.6 25B.6.1 25B.6.2 Landscaping Landscaping including lakes and other water Any activity that does not comply features, art and sculpture, is a permitted activity if: with a condition for a permitted (a) it is carried out progressively, and activity is a discretionary activity. (b) predominately indigenous species are planted, and (c) it complies with the provisions of the New Zealand Electrical Code of Practice for Electrical Safe Distances 34:2001 (NZECP 34) or equivalent replacement Code or Standard. 25B.7 25B.7.1 25B.7.2 Noise Any activity is a permitted activity if it is designed Any activity that does not comply and constructed so that noise from the activity, with a condition for a permitted other than construction noise and emergency activity is a discretionary activity. sirens, measured at any other site outside WIP, does not exceed:

(a) 50dBA (L10), Monday to Friday, 7am to 10pm, and

(b) 50dBA (L10), Saturday 7am to 6pm, and

(d) 75dBA (Lmax) at all times. 25B.8 25B.8.1 25B.8.2 Signs Despite rule 25.39.1(d), an advertising sign visible Any activity that does not comply from a public place is a permitted activity if: with a condition for a permitted (a) it is the only sign within the Open Space Area, activity is a discretionary activity. and (b) it does not exceed 10m2. 25B.9 25B.9.1 25B.9.2 Building Construction or alteration of a building or structure Any activity that does not comply height is a permitted activity if: with a condition for a permitted activity is a discretionary activity. development (a) it is within the Development Area, and area (b) its height does not exceed 15m, and coverage (c) landscaping is carried out in the adjacent Open Space Area, and (d) building coverage does not exceed 35%.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.49

ITEM PERMITTED RESOURCE CONSENT 25B.10 25B.10.1 25B.10.2 Building setbacks Construction or alteration of a building is a Any activity that does not comply permitted activity if it is set back at least: with a condition for a permitted (a) 50m from the western boundary, and activity is a discretionary activity. (b) the distances shown in the concept layout plan, and (c) travellers’ accommodation is set back at least 200m from the boundary of Lot 2 DPS 1424 (Ingham’s Enterprises).

Subdivision rules

ITEM CONTROLLED RESOURCE CONSENT 25B.11 25B.11.2 Subdivision Subdivision is a restricted discretionary activity. Discretion restricted to: compliance with the concept layout plan services suitable for intended use of the allotments allotment location, size, shape, access amenity.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.50

25BA Waikato Innovation Park: Concept Layout Plan

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.51

Schedule 25C – Agricultural Research Centres

25C.1 Application of the Schedule

This schedule applies to Livestock Improvement Corporation Agricultural Research Centre, AgResearch Whatawhata Agricultural Research Centre, AgResearch Ruakura Agricultural Research Centre, and Dexcel Agricultural Research Centre shown on the Planning Maps.

25C.2 General rule

The rules in the schedule apply only to agricultural and horticultural research activities at the agricultural research centres. If the agricultural or horticultural research activity ceases, the schedule does not apply and the land is governed entirely by the ordinary Rural Zone rules.

In this schedule research centre site means the entire area located within the boundaries of each particular agricultural research centre shown on the Planning Maps. Campus means the area located within the agricultural research centre site identified as “Campus” on the Planning Maps.

25C.3 Rules All rules in Chapter 25: Rural Zone apply to agricultural research centre sites except where inconsistent with a rule in this Schedule.

Rule 25.5 Prohibited Activities (f), (h), (i), (j), (k) and (l) does not apply if the activity is permitted under rule 25C.4.1.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.52

Rule table

ITEM PERMITTED RESOURCE CONSENT 25C.4 25C.4.1 25C.4.2 Type of activity In addition to any activity permitted in the Rural Subject to rule 25.5, any activity Zone, any activity that complies with all effects and that does not comply with a building rules, is a permitted activity at a research condition for a permitted activity centre site if it is: is a discretionary activity. (a) an agricultural or horticultural research activity, or (b) incidental to agricultural and horticultural research that is: (i) an educational facility, or (ii) an industrial activity, or (iii) a commercial activity, or (iv) a trade or engineering workshop, or (v) an intensive farming activity (provided that such an activity is set back at least 200m from the outer boundary of a research centre site), or (vi) on-site disposal or storage of solid waste where such waste is organic or cleanfill and is generated by activities undertaken on the site, or (vii) an extractive industry where the extracted material is for use on the site, or (viii) staff facilities including: a dwelling set back at least 200m from the boundary of Inghams Feed Mill; Lot 2 DPS 1424 recreational facilities social club. 25C.5 25C.5.1 25C.5.2 Temporary events In addition to any activity permitted in the Rural Any activity that does not comply Zone, a temporary event at an agricultural research with a condition for a permitted centre site is a permitted activity if: activity is a discretionary activity. (a) it is a field day or open day to educate the public about agricultural or horticultural research activity, and (b) the event occurs no more than 4 times per year, and (c) it does not involve the assembly of more than 5000 people in any one day. 25C.6 25C.6.1 25C.6.2 Vehicle movements Any activity at a research centre site other than a Any activity that does not comply temporary event is a permitted activity if: with a condition for a permitted (a) it does not involve more than 3000 vehicle activity is a discretionary activity. movements per day. 25C.7 25C.7.1 25C.7.2 Building height Construction or alteration of a building or structure Any activity that does not comply within a campus is a permitted activity if: with a condition for a permitted (a) its height does not exceed 15m. activity is a discretionary activity.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.53

25C.8 25C.8.1 25C.8.2 Building coverage Construction or alteration of a building within a Any activity that does not comply campus is a permitted activity if: with a condition for a permitted (a) total building coverage does not exceed 70%. activity is a discretionary activity.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.54

Schedule 25D – Hampton Downs Motorsport Park Subdivision

25D.1 In this schedule: “Hampton Downs Motorsport Park” means the land indicated on the Planning Maps and in Figure 25DA.

ITEM DISCRETIONARY NON-COMPLYING 25D.2 25D.2.1 25D.2.2 Subdivision - Despite the rules of this chapter, subdivision of Subdivision of land in the Hampton Downs land in the Hampton Downs Motorsport Park is Hampton Downs Motorsport Motorsport Park a discretionary activity if: Park that does not comply with a (a) it is in general accordance with the condition for a discretionary Development Concept Plan shown in Figure activity is a non-complying 25DA, and activity. (b) subdivision in the rural residential/lifestyle zone shown in Figure 25DA complies with the standards and terms for controlled activities in rules 27.62 to 27.72, and the maximum number of lots to be created by subdivision within the 16ha rural residential/lifestyle zone in Figure 25DA shall be 15. (c) subdivision in the business industrial and industrial units areas shown in Figure 25DA complies with the standards and terms for controlled activities in rules 24.70 to 24.74, and the maximum number of lots to be created by subdivision within the 17ha business/industrial area shown in Figure 25DA shall be 20. (d) subdivision in the apartment buildings areas shown in Figure 25DA complies with the following standards and terms: (i) density does not exceed one residential unit per 120m2 net site area, and (ii) all residential units are provided with an outdoor living court, directly accessible from the unit, for the exclusive use of the occupants of that unit containing at least: ground floor units: 40m2 which contains a circle with a minimum diameter of 6m, and first floor units and above: 10m2 with a minimum dimension of 2m, and

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.55

ITEM DISCRETIONARY NON-COMPLYING (25D.2 continued) (iii) all residential units have access to and use of a service court containing at least 50m2 within the unit development, and (iv) all units are connected to reticulated water supply, stormwater and wastewater disposal networks where available, or provided with an alternative method of water supply, stormwater and wastewater disposal that complies with Appendix B (Engineering Standards), and (v) underground power and telecommunication services are provided to each building, and internally to each unit within each building, and (vi) all units have access to a public road, and (vii) vehicle access and parking complies with Appendix A (Traffic), and (viii) vehicle access and parking are located and formed to be readily accessible from each residential unit, and (ix) parking spaces are allocated exclusively to each residential unit, and (x) the bulk and location of units is as shown in Figure 25DA, and (xi) residential units are designed and constructed to incorporate acoustic insulation as set out in Appendix M (Acoustic Insulation) rule M3(c) or better.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.56

Figure 25DA: Hampton Downs Motorsport Park

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 25.57

Schedule 25E - Meremere Dragway

25E.1 Application of the Schedule

In this schedule: “Meremere Dragway” means the land shown on the Planning Maps. “Motorised Recreation Activity” means an activity that involves motor propulsion to provide entertainment, education or training for the general public or to an individual participating in the activity; and includes but is not limited to driver training or education, police or security training, and vehicle testing.

25E.2 Application of Rural Zone Rules

All rules in Chapter 25: Rural Zone apply to the Meremere Dragway site except where inconsistent with a rule in this Schedule.

25E.3 General Rules

1 The rules in this Schedule apply only to motorised recreation activities at the Meremere Dragway site.

2 This Schedule does not include those motorised recreation activities authorised by separate resource consent(s).

3 If the motorised recreation activity as referred to in Rule 25E.3.2 ceases, this Schedule does not apply and the land is governed entirely by the Rural Zone rules.

Rule table

Land Use Activities

ITEM PERMITTED RESOURCE CONSENT 25E.4 25E.4.1 25E.4.2 Motorised A motorised recreation activity is a A motorised recreation activity recreation activity permitted activity if that does not comply with a (a) it is contained within the Meremere condition for a permitted activity is Dragway, and a discretionary activity. (b) is limited to any one or more of the following activities: driver training or education, police or security training, vehicle testing.

Waikato District Plan Chapter 25 – Rural Zone Rules December 2012 20 Ruakura POLICY AREAS

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R L3 E5 u a k u ra R ö d d e R 68 Campus Dairy NZ ail V Dairy NZ Research Research Centre Centre L3 (Sch25C) (Sch25C)

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d R L Waikato District / Hamilton n W26 is to s h e

t 1 City Boundary Alteration ig te n W R K a d ik [Pursuant to the Local Government (Waikato District and a t LIC Hamilton City) Boundary Alteration Order 2011 and section o E x 81(1) of the Resource Management Act 1991 the Waikato p re District Plan continues to apply to those parts of the former d s R s w Waikato District now included in the Hamilton t s a e y City District] r lc il H S ilv e rd Designation N1 a le R (Airport Obstacle Limitation Surface) d affects this area - See map 58 74

CADASTRAL INFORMATION DERIVED FROM LAND INFORMATION NEW ZEALAND'S CORE RECORD SYSTEM (CRS). CROWN COPYRIGHT RESERVED. DISCLAIMER Waikato District Plan Please note that when using the CRS, the boundaries are approximate N O R T H only and should not be used for evidence, or for navigational purposes. VERSION : DEC 2012 Appendix 9: Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy

Appendix 9: Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy

Ruakura Private Plan Change | Assessment of Environmental Effects

Hamilton Urban GrowthS ways inwhichwewillworktowards theirachievement. Urban Growth Strategyidentiﬁ es theseaspirationsforHamiltonandthe TheHamilton Enhancing theurbanexperience.Safeandenjoyablejourneys. Managing ourlanduse.Gettingaround easily. Maximisingopportunities. sprawl. Improving developmentingreenfield sites.Safecommunities. strengths. Planning for the future. Is it good enoughfor Hamilton? Managing our competitiveon Building Community capacityandpride. choice. for Waikato River. Reducingourfootprint. Intelligentandprogressive. Planning well planned.Goodurbandesign.Innovationprecincts. Acknowledgingthe communities. Businessandindustry. Long-termthinking.Sustainableand Growing numbers.Strategicdirections. Qualityoflife.Neighbourhoodsand trategy A compact and sustainable city and sustainable A compact

A compact and sustainable city >Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

IF YOU IMAGINE HAMILTON’S FUTURE, WHAT WOULD THE CITY LOOK AND FEEL LIKE? WHAT WOULD YOU WANT TO SEE? In the past, growth planning has been primarily driven by cost only. The development of this Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy by Council has > enablingbling included a broadening of the debate for different growth options from simple cost to a wider consideration of value delivered to the entire city. This is a signiﬁ cant shift in thinking and a more new waysw y holistic way of prioritising growth options. Council’s spatial vision for the city – provided in the Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy – has been enhanced through the development of seven other collaborative city strategies. These strategies have of thinkingnking been formulated with input from key city leaders and stakeholder partners. In addition, the aspirations of key partners and other specialist technical information was used as the basis for an Enquiry by Design (EbD) process as part of this strategy’s development. This unique process brought key city planning disciplines around the same table, resolving issues as they arose and testing solutions in an integrated and dynamic manner. The key growth issues discussed included: > our growing population > areas suitable for accommodating future residential growth > supporting city infrastructure requirements > where to develop ﬁ rst, why and when > what other land uses are required e.g. business and industry > ensuring social well-being and protecting the local environment However this does not mean growth at any cost. We still need to consider: > the affordability of growth options The principles underlying the city strategies were used as a framework to guide decisions through the EbD process. This ensured consistent thinking between the growth strategy and the strategic aspirations and direction of the city. This Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy outlines the strategy approach that was agreed by Council following a thorough city-wide consultation process undertaken in November and December 2008.

>Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

THERE ARE AROUND 140,000 OF US LIVING IN HAMILTON RIGHT NOW. BUT BY 2041, THAT NUMBER IS EXPECTED TO INCREASE TO AROUND 225,000. WE WILL BE SHARING OUR CITY WITH AROUND 85,000 MORE PEOPLE. growing numbers To accommodate them, the city will need such growth pressures are inevitable. Growth can around 36,000 more homes. We will need to create opportunities. provide for all kinds of accommodation choices, While we don’t have an option whether we grow catering for young and old, large and small or not, we do have an option whether or not we families, fi rst home buyers and more mature actively manage this growth…or simply allow it occupiers, city dwellers as well as suburban to happen to us. households. How can we provide this choice when we are running out of room to grow? The need to manage growth > Our past approach to growth Large scale development of the Rototuna, Peacocke and Rotokauri growth cells at once Council’s previous strategy for growth is now a may not be possible to do without signifi cant number of years old and has become outdated. increases to the cost of growing and running The approach has been based on: the city. Structure Plans for the Rototuna, Peacocke and > The way we currently develop land in the city Rotokauri growth cells. is ineffi cient. With the majority of section sizes > These are indicative plans showing how we being maintained at 600-800 square metres, propose land to be used, for example how we are sprawling. This has impacts for the cost much will be for residential living, where it will of travel and how we get from A to B. be, will there be a town centre to support it and > Sprawl is contributing to making land a scarce how will it connect with the bigger city. resource and therefore making it more and An agreement with Waikato District Council more unaffordable. about the areas on the Hamilton’s boundary that > With the world’s population also growing, will come into the city to allow us room to grow. our land is becoming more important for food > The agreement was developed in 2005 and production. The land surrounding Hamilton is was based largely on construction dates for highly productive growing soil. major transportation projects such as the > The environment has a budget too. Having Hamilton bypass. It is a now a number of enough water to meet our current needs, lots years old and is being renegotiated given of open space to enjoy, good air quality and the changes to anticipated timing of key energy for our everyday needs are elements of transportation projects and the changing our lifestyle which we often take for granted. aspirations of the partners to the agreement. Future population growth will put increased The Hamilton Community Outcomes identifi ed pressure on the local environment and these aspirations for a city that is “not too big and not key resources. too small”. The fact is we are growing, whether > The type and quality of growth occurring in the we want to or not. Why? We are the focal point of city is often uniform and in some cases fails a rapidly growing and prosperous region and as to blend with existing communities or is

4 aesthetically undesirable. Knowing this, there is a strong desire within Council and the community for the city to become more proactive when it comes to urban growth and design, and to live more sustainably to minimise the impact on our future environment. > Over recent years, Hamilton’s growth has predominantly occurred in the north of the city – continuing this trend may not necessarily provide for future social or cultural needs of all our residents. > In addition to this, in recent years demand for industrial land has outstripped supply. In order to remain economically competitive, Hamilton needs to be able to attract new businesses and in particular have room to accommodate businesses that build on our comparative advantages.

WE NEED TO CHALLENGE THE CURRENT APPROACH TO CITY GROWTH AND DETERMINE THE BEST FUTURE FOR HAMILTON AS A WHOLE. OUR NEW WAY OF THINKING NEEDS TO ENABLE: > forward-thinking infrastructure development within the limitations of available budgets > enhancement of social, cultural and environmental values > a strengthening of our unique identity, in particular, making better and more creative connections with the Waikato River > greater options for industrial and commercial land use including retail space > a range of lifestyle choices and living environments and better quality urban design, and > getting from A to B easily and safely > development that is viable within the available resources of Council and the development community >Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

SINCE THE 2006-16 LONG-TERM PLAN, COUNCIL HAS BEEN WORKING WITH KEY PARTNERS TO DEVELOP A SUITE OF EIGHT CITY STRATEGIES. > achieving a shared outcome These strategy documents are guiding a > Creativity and Identity collaborative approach for achieving shared > Active Communities, and this outcomes for Hamilton and are geared to deliver > Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy. tangible on-the-ground results through a series of high proﬁ le projects and programmes. In doing Signiﬁ cant consideration has been given to how so, the strategies will contribute to progressing key principles from each of these strategies Hamilton’s community outcomes. will inform and enhance the way the city grows The full suite of strategies are: - we are not starting from a ‘blank page’ for city growth. The key to going forward will be > Environmental Sustainability ensuring alignment between our urban growth > Social Well-being decisions and these strategic aspirations. The > Economic Development Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy will be the blueprint to deliver co-ordinated sustainable > Access Hamilton growth in Hamilton. > CityScope Strategy directions and linkages to critical urban growth issues

Access Hamilton Creativity & Identity Planning and providing Connecting to the river for transport needs Making small effective in the future (multi-functional and modal)

City Scope/Vista Economic Development Hamilton High density residential A thriving environment around key nodes for business. Attracting Urban Growth (town centres, and growing talent. Strategy CBD, amenities) A vibrant City Heart A vibrant City Heart

Social Well-being Active Communities Environmental Quality of life Enabling participation Sustainability Community capacity in sport and recreation Environmentally The role of leadership sensitive urban growth and collaboration

6 > Wherever viable we should ‘mend before we extend’, fi rst strengthening our existing communities and workplaces in order to maximise benefi ts and effi ciencies from amenities, public services and infrastructure.

Kobus Mentz (urban designer and enquiry by design facilitator) >Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

WE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PARTS OF THE CITY THAT ARE IN NEED OF REGENERATION. IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF THE LIVING ENVIRONMENT AND MAKING PUBLIC SPACE MORE INTERESTING AND SAFE WILL CONTRIBUTE TO A MORE VIBRANT CITY.

Hamilton is a thriving city and increasing cycling become less attractive if local activities numbers of people want to live here. Recent are further away from people’s homes. numbers and projections emphasise that we This issue is particularly important for local will be stretched to provide space for them to neighbourhood shopping nodes and schools. live, work and play. The concept of mending is In order to deliver a range of quality living essentially making the most of what we have. options throughout the city, we may need to be more selective and speciﬁ c about where Improving the quality of the current living compact living is best suited within the city environment of the city and what these developments should look This should be the ﬁ rst priority. There is a general mend and feel like.

acceptance that many developments occurring in our established neighbourhoods do not deliver More compact living environments will allow us the outcomes the community expects. They to proactively limit sprawl and manage our city’s don’t tend to blend appropriately or enhance the urban footprint. > aesthetic. We recognise a greater focus needs We recognise that market factors will continue to be given to working with the development to infl uence development trends into the community to lift the standard of more compact future irrespective of Council intervention. living environments in regenerating parts of the However, market demand is also rapidly city. Much of this work will occur through the changing. Hamilton now has choices and can comprehensive review of Hamilton’s District Plan be discerning. We need to be asking ‘is it good and the City Development Manual. enough for Hamilton?’ Developing the land we have available in existing parts of the city more effi ciently Growth Approach 1: Current development section sizes are a consistent 600-800 square metres. This has Over the next 10-20 years, impacts for the cost of travel and how we get from A to B and pushes up the cost of land. approximately 50% of By providing a range of section sizes, including Hamilton’s new dwellings options for those wanting smaller sections and more compact living environments such as will be increasingly provided townhouses and city apartments as well as our through regeneration of traditional “quarter acre” lots, we will increase the capacity of the city to accommodate more of our existing parts of the city. It is growing population while providing more choice. recognised that this will not We also know that our family size and structure is be appropriate for all areas. changing – families are getting smaller and there will be more people in the future in retirement age. Therefore this regeneration will focus in and around Our family size and structure is changing rapidly. More compact living environments in parts of the key nodes including the city create better numbers of users and therefore CityHeart, transport hubs, help to support the effi cient operation of public transport. In such cases, services are more suburban centres and areas likely to cover their own costs and not require of high public amenity such signifi cant ongoing public subsidy. In addition, as parks and the river. other transport modes such as walking and

8 Areas of expansion should deliver diverse and wholesome settings for new communities, seamlessly connected with the city.

Examples of compact living environment densities:

CITYHEART SUBURBAN CENTRES AND TRANSPORT HUBS AREAS OF HIGH AMENTY Rototuna is the current primary growth area for residential growth. > Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

THE CONCEPT OF EXTENDING REFERS TO GROWING THE SIZE OF THE CITY AND ITS URBAN FOOTPRINT. IN A HAMILTON CONTEXT, THIS GENERALLY MEANS CONVERTING ‘GREENFIELDS’ THAT IS, PREDOMINANTLY RURAL LAND INTO URBAN ENVIRONMENTS. As only up to 50% of the projected growth in the Rototuna area for residential can be accommodated in existing areas of development. If more choice in living the city, the reality is that there will still be a environments were available, for instance, continuing need to provide Greenﬁ eld options more townhouse developments in key areas for growth. such as town centres or around parks and While statisticians can estimate when the open spaces, then it is anticipated that the growth will occur, they can’t determine where. area could last longer – until approximately 2025. Distinct greenﬁ eld opportunities exist for residential development in the Rototuna, There remains a commitment to undertake Peacocke and Rotokauri areas; all being Stage 1 of the Rotokauri area. We can’t within the current Hamilton city boundary. develop beyond Stage 1 until construction of These areas have structure plans that provide the Te Rapa Bypass is completed (anticipated for a range of activities and land uses and to occur in 2013). extend

are designed to ensure development is In addition, there is a current and restated undertaken in a managed way and provide commitment to facilitate the ﬁ rst residential good urban design outcomes. stage of the Peacocke area in the vicinity of We don’t need to develop any major new Dixon Road. > greenﬁ eld areas within the next decade. Why? > Firstly, due to our ability to absorb up to 50% of the projected growth in the existing city. This is starting to occur on a modest scale Growth Approach 2: particularly in areas fringing the CityHeart. > Secondly due to development already The commitments to committed to in the remainder of Rototuna, developing the remainder and some early development commitments of Rototuna and Stage 1 of in Peacocke and Rotokauri. both Peacocke and Rotokauri Extending in the remain. shorter term The development of Rototuna is the current primary growth area for Rototuna and Stage 1 of both residential growth. There is still a number of Peacocke and Rotokauri years’ capacity existing within this area. will include greater choice Depending on market uptake, we anticipate that growth will continue in this area and if land in living environments, for continues to be developed as it is currently, it instance, more compact type won’t reach capacity for at least another 10 years. developments in key areas We know that the developments already consented in this area will meet supply for the such as town centres or around next few years. Beyond this supply, there is parks and open spaces approximately 220 hectares of land remaining

11 >Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

Extending in the longer term In the longer term, residential growth will be > Detailed planning will be undertaken to refl ect prioritised in the Peacocke area rather than requirements for environmentally sensitive in the remainder of the Rotokauri structure development plan area. Both of these areas are likely to > Standard range of opportunities for dedicated be developed at some point in the future and public transport infrastructure and services have had structure plans developed to ensure > Planned arterial road network (connection to development is undertaken in a managed way the Eastern Arterial ring road via a new bridge) and provide good urban design outcomes. has signifi cant benefi ts Following much debate, Peacocke was > Proximity to CityHeart and hospital provides prioritised due to the unique strengths it has opportunities for walking and cycling to work and what particular outcomes are seen to (via safe and pleasant off road routes) be more benefi cial for the city in the likely development timeframe. > Approximately 580 hectares of land available for residential development (beyond the fi rst The general economic environment, pace of stage) development within the city and developer aspirations will determine the exact timing of Other considerations… when future stages of Peacocke are released > Rolling topography may require specifi c urban for residential development. Currently Council design and architectural solutions to make does not anticipate this to be before 2025 but best use of sites will continue to monitor growth within the city > Distance to existing wastewater treatment and adjust plans as required. plant will require signifi cant piping (or an alternative solution) So what does Peacocke offer? > Planning of road network, particularly state > Good access to employment in the CityHeart, highway links, is currently less advanced hospital, Ruakura innovation precinct, > Better community outcomes are likely to cost university and airport. See map on page 13. more and will require higher upfront costs > Proximity to the Waikato River provides high amenity value and options for superior public space including access to Hamilton Gardens via a new river crossing as well as the potential Growth Approach 3: extension of Hamilton Gardens across the river > Access to extensive gully system which provides interesting recreation spaces and To prioritise the residential enjoyable walking and cycling networks. growth area of Peacocke in > May offer opportunities to refresh investment the longer term and living environments in the south of the city

12 LEGEND NOT TO SCALE

Existing employment areas (indicative only)

Primarily employment areas (1st Priority)

Primarily employment areas (2nd Priority)

Future employment areas

Committed residential development

Longer-term residential development

Future Road

Existing Road

Railway >Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

> ruakura high-value, innovation precinct PROVIDING MODERN, ATTRACTIVE BUSINESS SETTINGS FOR THE CITY’S INDUSTRIAL AND COMMERCIAL SECTORS IS VITALLY IMPORTANT TO HAMILTON’S FUTURE ECONOMIC WELL-BEING.

Hamilton is planning for future growth by In order to achieve this, Ruakura will need developing new business zones across the city. to become part of the city. It currently sits in Employment uses are sensitive to location so the Waikato District. The transfer of Ruakura Hamilton will be developing concepts for these into the city was agreed several years ago and areas to encourage the clustering of related was timed to coincide with the development businesses. of the Hamilton bypass section of the Waikato There is a current and restated commitment Expressway. We can’t afford to wait that long to undertake Stage 1 of the Rotokauri area if we want to maintain Hamilton’s competitive which includes around 70 hectares of industrial advantages and secure these leading and employment land. The existing business innovation and high-tech businesses in the city. profi le and locational advantages tell us that the Transfer of the Ruakura area into the city is now Rotokauri area is ideally suited to accommodate anticipated to take place in 2010/11. A more service trades, light industry, manufacturing detailed structure Plan for the Ruakura area and a general business precinct. Beyond Stage will be developed as part of the review of the 1, further stages of industrial and employment Hamilton District Plan. land will be made available in response to Ideally, we want to begin development in this demonstrated demand. This is largely an area within the decade starting by actively extension of land uses anticipated in Stage 1. developing the area around the existing Innovation Park. Where are the other opportunities? Having a number of alternative employment Hamilton is the urban centre of one of the locations across the city creates effi ciencies world’s leading agricultural and pastoral regions. in our transport networks and allows for the It is also New Zealand’s leading centre for the property market to operate more effi ciently. research, development and commercialisation of ag-bio and agri-technologies. This includes a host of related internationally competitive food, Growth Approach 4: manufacturing and engineering companies that are already clustered here. To build on these strengths, we are proposing to To enable the development of develop an innovation and employment precinct a high technology, innovation in the Ruakura area of the city, specialising precinct in Ruakura - beginning in research, innovation and high-technology businesses. This will see the integration of the development within the future development of Waikato Innovation Park decade in the area around and complementary industrial development in the area, with the research facilities at the the existing Innovation Park Ruakura Research Centre and the University of and subsequently releasing Waikato as well as some general employment based on identifi ed demand. additional land for more general employment needs.

14 To build on our strengths, we are proposing to develop an innovation precinct in the Ruakura area of the city, specialising in research, innovation and high-technology businesses >Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

> looking broader and even longer term FUTURE PROOF IS THE NAME OF THE PROJECT THAT WILL PLAN AND MANAGE GROWTH IN THE AREA COVERING HAMILTON, WAIKATO, WAIPA DISTRICTS AND THE MORRINSVILLE AREA OVER THE NEXT 50 YEARS.

Future Proof is a combined project between to be addressed if community well-being for the ﬁ ve councils (Hamilton, Waikato, Waipa and area is to be sustained in the long-term. Matamata Piako Districts and Environment The Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy was Waikato), Tangata Whenua and the New developed in parallel with the Future Proof Zealand Transport Agency. Future Proof strategy and as a result there is signiﬁ cant deals with the challenges and impacts of alignment between the two strategies. The growth facing the sub-region. In June 2009, Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy is regarded following consultation in late 2008 and early as providing more localised interpretation of 2009, the subregional growth strategy and the Future Proof principles and will help to implementation plan for Future Proof was guide the review of the Hamilton District Plan. adopted. The complex issues concerning future For more information on Future Proof please urban and rural land use, natural and cultural go to resources, roads and other infrastructure, need www.futureproof.org.nz.

Relationship between the Future Proof Growth Strategy and the Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy

Regional Policy Statement Regional Land Transport Strategy and Plan

Future Proof 50 year sub-regional growth strategy Hamilton/Waikato/Waipa/Environment Waikato

Waipa Growth Strategy Waikato Growth Hamilton Urban review review Strategy review Growth Strategy

District Plan (Waipa 2050) District Plan District Plan

Waipa District Waikato District Hamilton City 10 year LTCCP 10 year LTCCP Council 2009-19 2009-19 10 year LTCCP 2009-19

16 The Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy was developed in parallel with the Future Proof strategy and as a result there is signiﬁ cant alignment between the two strategies. >Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy > A COMPACT AND SUSTAINABLE CITY

> taking the strategy forward The Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy provides the strategic blueprint for future urban development of Hamilton City. The upcoming review of the Hamilton City District Plan will consider what changes should be made to the regulatory planning environment in the city to encourage development that is in-line with this strategy. For more information on the review of Hamilton’s District Plan please go to www.fastforwardhamilton.co.nz. The new Hamilton District Plan is anticipated to be notiﬁ ed in late 2011. Changes to the economic environment, demand for land and shifting developer aspirations will mean that any of the indicative timeframes for the start of new growth areas outlined in this strategy are likely to move. Council will continue to actively monitor growth within the city and respond through future reviews of this strategy and other planning tools. While this strategy provides the blueprint for development – Council will make the necessary investments in infrastructure to facilitate urban growth as required through subsequent long- term plan budgeting processes. These investments will need to be balanced against Council’s other priorities for funding and ultimately secured through future long-term budget planning processes.

18 Hamilton Urban Growth Strategy A compact and sustainable city