MEETING AGENDA
COUNCIL MEETING
Friday 7 October 2016 at 2pm
COUNCIL CHAMBER
Mayor Andrew Judd Deputy Mayor Cr Heather Dodunski Cr Keith Allum Cr Shaun Biesiek Cr Gordon Brown Cr Murray Chong Cr Grant Coward Cr Harry Duynhoven Cr Richard Handley Cr Colin Johnston Cr Richard Jordan Cr Craig McFarlane Cr Marie Pearce Cr Howie Tamati Cr Roy Weaver
2 COUNCIL AGENDA FRIDAY 7 OCTOBER 2016
Addressing the council Members of the public have an opportunity to address the council during the public forum section or as a deputation.
A public forum section of up to 30 minutes precedes all council meetings. Each speaker during the public forum section of a meeting may speak for up to 10 minutes. In the case of a group a maximum of 20 minutes will be allowed.
A request to make a deputation should be made to the secretariat within two working days before the meeting. The chairperson will decide whether your deputation is accepted. The chairperson may approve a shorter notice period. No more than four members of a deputation may address a meeting. A limit of 10 minutes is placed on a speaker making a presentation. In the case of a group a maximum of 20 minutes will be allowed.
Purpose of Local Government The reports contained in this agenda address the requirements of the Local Government Act 2002 in relation to decision making. Unless otherwise stated, the recommended option outlined in each report meets the purpose of local government and:
• Will help meet the current and future needs of communities for good-quality local infrastructure, local public services, and performance of regulatory functions in a way that is most cost-effective for households and businesses;
• Would not alter significantly the intended level of service provision for any significant activity undertaken by or on behalf of the Council, or transfer the ownership or control of a strategic asset to or from the Council.
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HEALTH AND SAFETY Emergency procedures
APOLOGIES None Advised
CONFLICTS OF INTEREST None Advised
PUBLIC FORUM None Advised
DEPUTATIONS None Advised
REPORTS
A DRAFT DISTRICT PLAN – PUBLIC FEEDBACK The matter for consideration by the Council is the release of the draft District Plan that includes a new draft District Plan framework and draft objectives and policies for wider community feedback. This is a key phase of the District Plan Review process.
B CALVERT ROAD UNOFFICIAL LEVEL CROSSING PROPOSED CLOSURE The matter for consideration by the Council is the closure of the ‘informal’ level crossing at the end of Calvert Road.
C SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT - ANNUAL REPORT 2015/16 The matter for consideration by the Council is minor changes to the draft Annual Report 2015/16 following endorsement by the Audit and Risk Subcommittee on 16 September 2016. It is recommended that the minor changes to the draft Annual Report be endorsed and adopted with the Annual Report 2015/16.
Subsequent to the Audit and Risk Subcommittee of 16 September 2016, the auditors have fully completed their audit. The final version of the Annual Report is attached. This supersedes the version considered by the Audit & Risk Subcommittee.
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D ANNUAL REPORT FOR TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016 (2015/16) The matter for consideration is to receive and note the Annual Report for Taranaki Investment Management Limited (TIML) which has been audited by Audit New Zealand and adopted by the TIML Board.
E APPLICATION OF THE OPERATING SURPLUS FROM THE 2015/16 FINANCIAL YEAR The matter for consideration by the Council is to consider how the general rate operating surplus from the 2015/16 financial year of $2 million should be allocated.
F EXCLUSION OF THE PUBLIC FROM THE REMAINDER OF THE MEETING The matter for consideration by the Council is to consider how the general rate operating surplus from the 2015/16 financial year of $2 million should be allocated.
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DRAFT DISTRICT PLAN – PUBLIC FEEDBACK PREPARED BY: Juliet Johnson (District Planning Lead) TEAM: District Planning Team APPROVED BY: Liam Hodgetts (General Manager Strategy) WARD/COMMUNITY: District wide DATE: 8 September 2016 FILE REFERENCE: DM 7222898
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is the release of the draft District Plan that includes a new draft District Plan framework and draft objectives and policies for wider community feedback. This is a key phase of the District Plan Review process.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report the Draft District Plan and summary guide is made available for public feedback.
COMPLIANCE This matter is of some significance as it is consultation on draft proposals. The draft District Plan process does not have any statutory Significance implications. The public notification of the Proposed District Plan later in 2017 will be of increased significance as this is the statutory process. This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Make the draft District Plan available for public comment Options (with or without amendments).
2. Do not make the draft District Plan available for public comment. The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are key Affected persons business and community stakeholders, iwi and hapu and the general community. Recommendation This report recommends option 1 for addressing the matter. Long-Term Plan / Annual Plan No Implications Significant Policy and Plan No Inconsistencies
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BACKGROUND Overview The District Plan Review was commenced in May 2014 following the resolution of the Regulatory Committee. The key objective of the District Plan Review is to deliver a progressive district with liveable spaces, business opportunity and natural values.
The project is divided into four project phases as follows.
Phase 1: Review preparation (June 2014 to December 2014): Review preparation has been undertaken, including consideration of monitoring gaps and areas for focus.
Phase 2: Strategic Alignment (June 2014 to July 2015): To ensure a broader context to the District Plan the Blueprint and key directions have been developed and adopted by Council as part of the Long Term Plan. Focus is now on the integration of the Blueprint into Council’s policy and planning processes and everyday operations. The Blueprint provides significant direction for the District Plan Review and has influenced the key proposals for change identified for the draft District Plan.
Phase 3: Draft District Plan Preparation (August 2015 to August 2016): Draft District Plan objectives and policies have been developed as proposals for consideration by the community. The recommendations for discussion as part of the draft District Plan have been developed through monitoring, analysis and consultation and stakeholder discussions. Using a new District Plan framework these provisions will now be tested with the community to determine if they deliver on key outcomes. The draft process provides the opportunity to discuss initial issues with stakeholders and the wider community and for refinement of these issues. The draft District Plan will be available for public comment until December 2016.
The next stage of the draft District Plan process will assess the feedback provided to confirm and refine proposals and to then develop specific methods (zonings and rule responses) that will support a full Proposed District Plan. This will be a consideration for early in 2017.
Phase 4: Proposed Plan (September 2017): The Proposed District Plan will be publicly notified in accordance with RMA requirements and will involve submissions, hearings, decisions and the opportunity for submitters to appeal to the Environment Court. The target date for public notification is September 2017.
Draft District Plan Framework A new framework has been developed to better align the District Plan with best practise and to respond to community concerns regarding the issues with the current District Plan. The new District Plan will enable development to occur while putting the right controls in place to ensure planned and efficient outcomes.
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The current District Plan is very liberal in its application and has no strategic direction for what it is trying to achieve for the district over the next ten years. It is a pure ‘effects based’ plan, where development is required to meet certain performance standards that manages the effects that may be generated. The plan was built 15 years ago (has been active for the last 12) at a time where the district wasn’t growing. It has served the district well, save for some ‘out of zone’ activities establishing in areas that would have otherwise served one purpose. These out of zone activities are often characterised by activities that are not compatible with adjacent uses, such as residential developments in industrial zones.
With this in mind, one key aim of the District Plan Review is to provide better strategic direction by delivering on Blueprint key directions through its objectives, policies and rules for land use and subdivision. In particular, this means providing a clear steer on where activities can locate. This will also help to provide clearer regulatory signals for business and industry and provide more investment certainty, while protecting key values that are important to the community.
A stronger focus on objectives and policies that provide direction for the community and plan users will improve the resource consenting framework and decision making. More importantly it will also help Councils long term infrastructure planning to become smarter and more efficient.
Finally the new District Plan will also be more accessible to the community, both from having a more simplified and strategic framework and the initiative to take the plan digital. As a result property based planning information will be accessible and searchable, providing at hand information on development potential, options and scenarios.
New District Plan Proposals Objectives and policies for the new District Plan have been drafted for stakeholder and community comment. We want early feedback on these before progressing to the next stage. In many cases further work is required to confirm these proposals before progressing into the Proposed District Plan
Four areas in particular have been identified where more change in the District Plan is required. These four proposals are summarised below:
Central City and Local Centres The Central City is a key direction of the Blueprint. There is the opportunity for the District Plan to direct and better facilitate desired activities (including residential living and commercial activities) into the central city. Likewise key suburban centres and townships will benefit from a more deliberate planning framework. The primary outcome is for the central city and centres to be the primary hub for activities and living.
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Retail activities are a key driver, impacting the form that our central city takes and the success or failure of local centres. The new District Plan seeks to better direct retail activities into our central city and local centres. Managing where retail activities can locate will ensure the on- going viability of these centres. The new District Plan will do this by establishing appropriate compact zonings in our central city and local centres that allows and encourages a range of activities for retail, office and entertainment activities that serve the district and the wider region.
To achieve better outcomes in the central city and local centres it is proposed that a more deliberate approach is taken to the design of buildings in this area. Active frontages around all buildings will be promoted by continuing to manage pedestrian frontages and verandahs along key pedestrian streets. This will encourage retail activities to locate on the ground floor and lead to active spaces that people. In our central city a focus will be put in particular on the design of new buildings to ensure legible and good outcomes.
Residential Growth and Housing Choice Providing for a cohesive growth strategy is a key direction of the Blueprint and the District Plan has a role in ensuring there is sufficient land to provide for up to 1000 additional residents and 350 new dwellings per year that are forecasted.
With changing demographic trends, i.e. smaller families, and a predominately aging population, the new District Plan recognises the need for a range of housing types to be provided in safe, accessible well designed communities. Although the major housing offer will continue to be through low density housing in established and new residential neighbourhoods, this will be complemented by opportunities for medium density housing (town-housing, etc) in and around the central city and local centres and transport nodes.
Alongside existing residential zonings, growth areas are being assessed with a view of providing land to meet the short, medium and long term future growth needs of the District, while achieving a cohesive growth strategy. There is an opportunity for a range of densities to be provided in well-designed and connected new neighbourhoods. These directives are strongly influenced by Central Government’s recent work in regards to improving urban planning.
Managing Industry The need to strengthen and manage the rural economy, industry, the port and the airport is a key direction of the Blueprint. There is a need to ensure there is sufficient employment land supply and that appropriate land-uses are establishing in industrial areas. The effects of large scale rural industry also need to be managed and consideration towards a more consistent regional approach has been taken.
Industry land and related uses need to be strategically located to allow for the efficient transportation of products and the use of infrastructure and services. Non-industrial activities, particularly sensitive land uses need to be managed to allow for the on-going viability and growth of industry.
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A simplified but directive zoning framework is proposed that supports commercial service and industrial activities. As part of this proposal major facilities (i.e. larger scale industries) that are nationally or regionally significant and have particular operational requirements are acknowledged through a focused zoning.
The proposal takes a long-term view of the economic development needs of the District. It ensures a sufficient supply of industrial land to provide for a balanced economy, cater for emerging forms of industrial activity and retain local access to essential service industries.
In regards to the rural economy the draft District Plan proposes the need to recognise and provide for traditional rural uses and farming activities, but to identify and appropriately manage the environmental effects of rural industry. This will ensure that large scale industry can operate in appropriate locations in the rural area (i.e. away from sensitive activities and along main roads). The provisions reinforce the need for good site selection and industry best practise to minimise the effects on surrounding communities, while providing for operational certainty.
Coastal Management A strategic approach is required to coastal management to ensure activities do not impact the natural values of the coast and that that a planned approach is taken to the management of natural hazards. The draft District Plan gives effect to the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement 2010 (NZCPS) and manages the landscape, historical, cultural and ecological values of both modified and natural coastal environments.
The draft District Plan proposes to replace the Coastal Policy Area with a Coastal Overlay Area that will better manage the impacts of activities locating in the coastal environment. This will ensure better outcomes through the resource consent process.
Local Planning Responses The Blueprint key directions are being interpreted at the local level through the creation of new Community Board Plans and Local Centre Plans. These plans will be spatially based with local planning issues articulated, and in the case of Community Board Plans, led by the local Community Board.
Council officers will work with Community Boards and local communities over the next few months to assist with identifying areas of focus for the District Plan Review.
The Kaitake Community Board has commenced the development of the first Community Board Plan. They have set up a local Oakura focus group of stakeholders to provide input into the District Plan Review, to consider future growth issues in that community. The Draft District Plan has responded to the areas of focus identified by the Oakura Community Board, to date, in the following ways: • Zoning controls that ensure activities of like character locate in zones; • The introduction of the Coastal Environment section and review of the Coastal Policy Area; • A framework for structure planning areas identified for future growth and staging of development;
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• Providing for a range of types of housing (i.e. encouraging higher density housing in local centres and new residential areas); • Providing a zoning planning framework for managing “lifestyle” areas; • Potential for character areas to maintain village identify and character; and • Incorporation of design principles into development to ensure safe, connected and livable community environments.
Further work will continue as the new District Plan framework is applied in the local context (through zoning and rules) as the Proposed District Plan is developed.
As Community Board areas of focus are identified and as work is undertaken in local centres over the next few months these considerations can be fed into the Proposed District Plan for the next phase of the project.
Significant Natural Areas Following the Environment Court decision regarding the requirement to include identified Significant Natural Areas (‘SNAs’) in the District Plan, further consultation with landowners will be undertaken alongside the draft District Plan process.
An open engagement approach with landowners of potential SNAs will be undertaken through the draft District Plan process. Landowners of over 300 LSNAs will be informed of the desk top assessment work and will be able to request further information on the ecological values of the identified area. This regulatory work will be undertaken alongside landowners to determine the appropriateness of sites for inclusion in the new District Plan, and the extent and potential of SNA provisions that will apply.
This work to support the District Plan process will be undertaken alongside Council’s existing Landowner Liaison process, which will continue to work with landowners on management options. It is noted that the Council supports a proactive approach to working with landowners and that this process is a further opportunity to educate and encourage voluntary protection and active management of the areas.
Next Steps The draft District Plan proposals will be available for stakeholder and community comment from until December, although on-going discussions around particular issues are likely to continue beyond this time. The draft District Plan stage will allow for consideration of proposed changes before progressing and developing rules.
The Proposed District Plan is scheduled to be notified later in 2017. The release of the Proposed District Plan will be publicly notified in accordance with RMA requirements and will involve submissions, hearings, decisions and the opportunity for submitters to appeal to the Environment Court. This is the formal statutory consultation phase.
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SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT In accordance with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy, this matter has been assessed as of some significance. The District Plan is a statutory document required under the RMA that provides guidance and rules about how land can be used and developed. The draft phase of the District Plan Review provides the opportunity to test proposals and changes to the District Plan through a non-statutory process before publicly notifying a Proposed District Plan formally under the RMA. Further detailed work is required, in some cases, to confirm approaches before the release of the formal Proposed District Plan.
The draft District Plan process provides the opportunity to discuss initial issues with stakeholders and the wider community and for refinement of these issues. The draft District Plan will be made available for public comment until December 2016. A summary guide has been prepared to assist with gathering community feedback on the proposed draft changes. There will be opportunities for the public to comment on the Council’s website, including The Midweek and the Council’s Facebook page.
OPTIONS The following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter have been assessed:
1. Make the draft District Plan available for public comment (with or without amendments).
2. Do not make the draft District Plan available for public comment.
These two options have been assessed together as follows:
a) Financial and Resourcing Implications The District Plan Review is being undertaken within existing operational budgets. Following this stage of consultation consideration will be given to future work and resourcing that may be required for the Proposed District Plan. This will depend on the issues that are likely to be progressed through to submissions and appeals. Staff time and financial resources have been invested in the District Plan Review to date and it will be prudent to now receive feedback from the community on the directions before proceeding to the Proposed District Plan stage. If the draft District Plan stage is not progressed then it may lead to increased financial and resourcing implications in the long term.
b) Risk Analysis The draft District Plan process is non-statutory and is intended to reduce and test issues before they are formalised through the Proposed District Plan process. The release of a draft District Plan reduces the risk to Council by allowing for early conversations and the potential to resolve issues. This ultimately will reduce the legal risk to Council by minimising potential submissions and potential appeals following the release of the Proposed District Plan later in 2017.
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c) Promotion or Achievement of Community Outcomes The District Plan provides for all the community outcomes, and Blueprint key directions, by providing strategic direction for the future land-use activities in the District. The District Plan Review will deliver 40% of the Blueprint initiatives.
The draft District Plan provides for Our Community by ensuring an inclusive and connected community. Strengthening and connecting communities and neighbourhoods through planning provisions can lead to successful, safe and liveable environments. The current District Plan has led to adverse outcomes in some of our communities, which overtime will weaken their potential and resilience.
The draft District Plan provides for a strong and resilient economy (Our Economy) by providing clearer regulatory signals for business and industry to provide more investment certainty, while protecting key values that are important to the community. The current District Plan is effects based and does not sufficiently provide for the best economic interests of the community.
The draft District Plan provides for a clean, green liveable environment (Our Environment) by being more specific on the environmental outcomes that are expected. It also introduces best practise sustainable management techniques (e.g. low impact design) that will lead to improved environmental outcomes in the District compared to the current District Plan.
d) Statutory Responsibilities The District Plan Review is a statutory requirement and the RMA requires that the District Plan is reviewed every 10 years. This draft District Plan stage of the review is ‘non-statutory’ but is likely to improve and streamline the statutory process required for the Proposed District Plan. If a draft District Plan process is not progressed it will be more difficult for the Council to meet its statutory obligations.
e) Consistency with Policies and Plans The draft District Plan is consistent with the Blueprint key directions and will deliver on approximately 40% of the initiatives from the Blueprint. Growth planning outcomes, in particular will be aligned with the 2018/28 Infrastructure Strategy and Long Term Plan.
f) Participation by Māori The relationship of Maori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral land, water, sites, waahi tapu, valued flora and fauna and other taonga have been taken into account in the draft District Plan.
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Targeted consultation with endorsed iwi and hapu representatives as a part of the Nga Kaitiaki forum have informed issues to date for the draft District Plan. Discussions will continue with this group through to the development of the Proposed District Plan. The draft District Plan will provide for Maori interests by acknowledging the strategic importance of these interests and reflecting these throughout the District Plan. The current District Plan does not fully meet key issues as it narrows tangata whenua participation in the consent process in most cases to scheduled features.
g) Community Views and Preferences The views of the community through the adoption of the Blueprint key directions have informed the framework and issues for the draft District Plan. Targeted consultation (including discussions, briefings and workshops) with community and business stakeholders have also been undertaken. This has assisted to develop a new framework and to position key issues that require a response.
This draft phase will provide the general community with the opportunity to comment on the direction of the District Plan. A wide range of engagement techniques will be used to gather community perspectives and views.
If the Council does not undertake a draft District Plan phase it will be at risk of not meeting its consultation requirements under the RMA.
h) Advantages and Disadvantages The key advantage of progressing a draft District Plan stage is that it provides the opportunity for early engagement and the resolution of issues before the formal District Plan process. The costs associated with this process are likely to be minimal if compared to progressing without public engagement due to the potential litigation costs.
Another key advantage of the draft District Plan process is that it signals clearly to the community the key issues for the District Plan review, in a new planning framework, allowing for feedback from the community.
Taking into account the above assessment Option 1 is recommended.
Recommended Option This report recommends option 1 (Make the draft District Plan available for public comment) for addressing the matter.
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APPENDICES Appendix 1: Summary Guide: Draft District Plan Appendix 2: Draft District Plan
Council Friday 7 October 2016 DRAFT DISTRICT PLAN
Summary Guide Contents
District Plan review...... 4
Draft District Plan: District-wide Provisions...... 11
Zone Provisions...... 27
Further information...... 40 Introducing the District Plan Review We are a growing community. Following the adoption of the New Plymouth District Blueprint the Council is now reviewing its current District Plan. The District Plan controls where activities and development can locate and how land can be used and developed. With unique natural and cultural assets and a strong industry base there are a number of opportunities for the district. Equally there are some challenges that we face. These challenges include an ageing population, reliance on key industries and responding to increasing pressure from changing retail trends in our central city. New Plymouth District Council wants to ensure our future generations can enjoy the lifestyle we have today. Through monitoring and consultation processes, Draft District Plan objectives and policies have been developed as proposals for you to consider. We want to know if we are on the right track before we move into the next phase of this project. In particular we want your feedback on our new planning framework and our approaches to our top four issues, which are: • Central City and Local Centres. • Residential Growth. • Managing Industry. • Coastal Management. This is your opportunity to become involved in setting the future directions for the district.
We want your feedback! The current District Plan (also known as the shaping our Operative District Plan) was developed in the mid- futureTOGETHER 1990s, was notified to the public in 1998, and became operative in 2005. We were a very different community in 1995! Why are we doing the review? The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) requires all councils to review their District Plans every 10 years. The RMA also requires the District Plan to sustainably manage the natural and physical resources of the district to meet the needs of current and future generations and to provide for their social, economic and cultural well- being and for their health and safety. We are looking at whether the District Plan is working, what issues have emerged since the last plan and whether it is still relevant and references up-to-date changes in legislation, national policy statements, environmental standards and other regulations. New Plymouth District Council manages the environment alongside Taranaki Regional Council, and the District Plan must give effect to the Regional Policy Statement for Taranaki (2010).
D R A F T
4 | Draft District Plan The New Plymouth District Blueprint The New Plymouth community and the Council have jointly developed a District Blueprint, which has become a key driver that is shaping the review of the District Plan. The Blueprint is a high level spatial plan for the district that will Forty-two per cent of the initiatives guide and integrate Council decisions and planning, including from the Blueprint will be achieved by the District Plan review. The Blueprint identifies eight key the new District Plan. This will get our directions that will be the Council’s planning focus for the next district a long way towards delivering on 30 years. The key directions clearly communicate to agencies, our vision. businesses, industries, iwi, hapü and the community how the Council will focus its resources and deliver on these community outcomes.
Enhance the natural environment with Become a world-class destination biodiversity links and clean waterways A world-class destination, using both The district has a unique natural our natural and man-made attractions, environment with significant areas of will create employment and tourism indigenous vegetation, and rivers and opportunities as well as acting as waterways that flow from the mountain a lightning rod for attracting new to the sea. Enhancing biodiversity and businesses and talent to New Plymouth. collaborating with landowners will help achieve biodiversity outcomes.
Strengthen and connect local communities Enable engaged and resilient citizens Strengthening and connecting local Engaging and enabling citizens helps communities ensures that they become build community resilience. Providing successful, safe and liveable environments events in our parks and open for residents. Providing high-quality spaces and building strong strategic infrastructure within local communities helps partnerships with the community enables to support business and industry initiatives. community connectedness and leads to more sustainable social, economic and environmental outcomes.
Direct a cohesive growth strategy that Champion a thriving central city for all strengthens the city and townships New Plymouth’s central city is the New growth areas are required to respond commercial hub of the region. However, to growing population trends within the job growth has been focused in our district. Identifying where these growth northern industrial areas rather than the areas are and ensuring there is adequate central city. Providing a thriving central city land supply and network infrastructure will increase retail experiences and grow available is essential in planning for these small business opportunities. areas.
Strengthen and manage rural economy, Grow and diversify new economies industry, the port and the airport that attract and retain entrepreneurs, New economies are the basis for a more talented workers and visitors resilient economy, and to do this we This key direction supports our need to attract and retain businesses and existing strengths as an economy. This talented workers. includes the provision of appropriate infrastructure and ensuring our regulatory frameworks support businesses.
Summary Guide | 5 Tangata Whenua
The Council is committed to ongoing, genuine and Recognising and providing for the cultural and effective relationships with tangata whenua and its traditional relationship of Māori with their ancestral obligations under the Local Government Act 2002 lands, water, air, coastal environment, waahi tapu and the RMA. These obligations are guided by and other sites and taonga within the district. the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi (the Treaty of Waitangi). This includes: Managing district-wide natural and physical resources in a manner that takes into account iwi Having particular regard to kaitiakitanga in and hapū cultural and spiritual values and respects managing the use, development and protection and accommodates tikanga Māori. of natural and physical resources in a way that accommodates the cultural views of individual iwi Supporting and enabling activities that allow and hapū. tangata whenua to provide for their economic, social and cultural well-being. CARVING AT WEST QUAY ALONG THE WAITARA RIVER BY RANGI BAILEY
Top 4 Issues
1 The District Plan can reinforce Residential Growth 2 the central city as the economic hub of our district and region and To provide for the district’s growing population support the growth of local centres and to strengthen local communities, the District Plan will assist to ensure that growth is located in appropriate locations and is supported by adequate infrastructure to meet wider sustainability objectives. Central City and Local Centres Therefore, there is a significant opportunity to There is opportunity for the District Plan to direct provide for a range of housing choices with more and better facilitate desired development into intensive housing and activities around key centres. the central city. Likewise, other town and key suburban centres will benefit from more deliberate planning provisions that encourage activities Our district population is projected to (including residential living and commercial grow at a rate over 10 years of 1,000 activities) to locate in these centres. people per year. We need 350 new Top dwellings per year to meet this demand.
4 Our coastal environment has Strengthening and managing our rural I s important landscape, historical, economy, industry, port and airport. ssu e cultural and ecological values.
Managing Industry 3 4 Coastal Management
The District Plan can help ensure there is sufficient The District Plan can help ensure activities do not employment land supply for the district and that affect the natural values of the coast. The District appropriate land uses are located around the port Plan also manages activities at risk from coastal and airport. There is also a need to ensure that the hazards. There is an opportunity to manage effects of large scale rural industry are managed, the landward parts of our coastline in a more whilst protecting key industries from more sensitive sustainable way. activities locating nearby. There is a need to deliver a pragmatic, solution-focused District Plan and regulatory framework to support these industries and the communities in which they locate, and provide certainty for investment.
6 | Draft District Plan shaping our futureTOGETHER
To deliver on the Blueprint’s key directions and tangata whenua perspectives, and effectively address our top four issues, a change to the framework of the District Plan is proposed. Problems have also been identified with the effectiveness of the current District Plan and its day to day administration that we think need to be addressed.
The Current District Plan • A plan that is regionally aligned with other local Our current District Plan is effects-based and addresses authorities within Taranaki. 23 planning issues that are supported by objectives, • Planning information that is more accessible to the policies and rules. It manages the effects of activities community through a simple framework and an online, rather than the activities themselves. This means people searchable, map-based digital District Plan. can undertake whatever activities they want on their land as long as the effects the activity generates, e.g. noise, By moving towards a more certain regulatory framework, traffic and the size and location of buildings, meet the we think this will deliver a new District Plan that provides relevant rules and standards. Over the lifetime of the industry and business with more certainty and direction District Plan we have identified several problems with our for investment and that also creates strong communities effects-based approach, including: and better environmental outcomes. • A lack of certainty for people in understanding whether their proposed activity or development meets permitted rules and standards. This can often require New Planning Framework technical expert input and information to determine whether the activity or development meets permitted Decisions about the District Plan affect everyone so rules and standards. it is important that we get things right. To help test • The inappropriate location of activities or development whether we are on the right track, we have released a in zones, resulting in effects that are difficult to Draft District Plan. The Draft District Plan proposes a manage (we call these ‘out of zone’ activities). new format with new objectives, policies and zones. It also includes rule summaries that give a steer on the • Out of zone activities compromise more appropriate specific standards we could include. activities or development and cause unplanned demand for infrastructure services, leading to The Draft District Plan process provides an informal inefficient use of land. opportunity for you to feed your thoughts back to the Council, before we publicly notify the Proposed District • In some cases, landowners (especially business Plan in mid-2017. owners) feel their investment/property could be undermined by conflicting activities or poorly The new Draft District Plan framework is strongly designed/located developments on neighbouring sites. driven by the Blueprint’s eight key directions. The key directions are reflected in the district-wide provisions Our Response which provide the strategic basis for many of the zone- We want to address these concerns by creating a clearer, based provisions. The zone-based provisions, i.e. more directive and user-friendly District Plan. With clearer matters that are particularly relevant to the zone, are linkages to our Blueprint’s key directions, we want to how the district-wide provisions will be delivered. This ensure that our plan is working towards our common framework is supported by the planning maps. The vision. The key things we want are: location of overlays and zones will be considered in the next phase of the project. • Rationalising zones so there is a more simplified/ consistent approach across the district. • Enabling development while protecting natural, social and cultural values. • Less emphasis on issues and wordy explanations that have minimal statutory weight. Look for this symbol to see how the Top 4 • Specific outcome-focused objectives and directive ‘Top 4’ issues have been addressed in policies that provide more guidance to the decision- the Draft District Plan framework. making process and that are supported by clear and simple rules.
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h t e n u a * Willbeshownon planningmaps Zone Provisions District-wide Provisions Environments Environments Environments District-wide Community Commercial Centre and Living and Activities Working Purpose Natural Facility Zones Zones Living Major Māori Zone Zone
or regionallysignificant* Facilities thatarenationally Medium DensityResidential* Residential* Large FormatRetail* Commercial Service* Local Centre* City Centre* Papakainga Housing* Marae and Future UrbanGrowth* Infrastructure andConnectivity* Rural Development Urban Development Character Areas* Entrance Corridors* Viewshafts* Trees* Historic Heritage* Natural Hazards* Public Access* Coastal Environment* Outstanding NaturalLandscapes* Indigenous Biodiversity* Waterbodies* Industrial Zones Zones Zones Space Rural Open
Temporary Events Noise andLightOverspill Signs Network Utilities Energy Contaminated Land Hazardous Substances Traffic andTransport Earthworks Subdivision Rural Lifestyle* Rural Production* Natural OpenSpace* Neighbourhood OpenSpace* Sport andRecreation* Heavy Industry* Light Industry* Strategic Intent Technical Delivery
The strategic basis for all zones Objectives The strategic basis for all zones and Policies District-wide Overlay Rules District-wide Overlay Rules
District-wide Objectives Overlay and Rules Policies
District-wide Objectives Overlay and Rules Policies
Objectives District-wide and Rules Policies
District-wide provisions and zone provisions have a two-way relationship and inform each other
Objectives Activity Rules and and Policies Effects Rules
We are here 10 | Draft District Plan District-wide Provisions Kaupapa ā Rohe
This section outlines the new framework and key changes that we want to test for the Draft District Plan. It is a summary only and we encourage you to look at the full copy of the draft document and/or talk to a planner in the District Plan Team to clarify what ideas may affect your land/business and/or any concerns or ideas you may have.
Summary Guide | 11 Urban Development Living and Working Environments Living and Rural Development This section of the Draft District Plan relates Working to the development of the areas where Environments Infrastructure and Connectivity people live and work. These areas need to be Future Urban Growth planned to ensure they are successful, safe and liveable environments.
This section provides the basis for our urban zones. Urban Development Top 4 Issues Draft responses to issues A range of housing choices are not being provided for Implement a centres hierachy to facilitate appropriate within the district. Options are limited for current and retail and office activity. The city centre is at the top of future generations. the hierarchy. Retail, office and entertainment activities are locating Better define the role and function of zones and direct outside our central city and local centres, affecting the activities into these zones, especially the city centre, viability of these key community focal points. local centres, residential, rural, industrial and major facility zones. Industry land is being used for other uses, e.g. retail and residential, limiting land availability. Provide a range of residential growth options, including a new Medium Density Residential Zone, townhouse Out of zone activities are locating throughout the district, living in the city centre and land set aside as a future compromising the potential for ‘in zone’ activities to urban growth overlay. establish and operate. Provide for commercial and industrial growth by Incompatible activities can locate close together within identifying sufficient land that is close to and serviced zones and near zone boundaries, resulting in conflicts by infrastructure. and reverse sensitivity issues between activities, therefore reducing amenity. Include place-making, sustainability, safe community and Mäori design principles to achieve good quality Sometimes new development delivers poor outcomes design and reflect community identity. for the district. The District Plan needs to be updated to reflect best practice to ensure that liveable, connected urban environments are more consistently delivered.
12 | Draft District Plan Rural Development Top 4 Issues Draft responses to issues The rural environment is the largest land area in the Better define the role and function of the rural zone district and includes many of our important natural to recognise the contribution of rural activities, rural features and landscapes that need to be looked after, e.g. resources and regionally significant industries to the indigenous vegetation and waterbodies. social and economic well-being of the district. Rural activities (including industry) are often noisy and Reinforce the importance of site selection for large generate traffic effects that need to be managed. and long-term industrial activities that recognises existing communities and the capacity of infrastructure, Rural activities can find it difficult to operate due to including roads. residential activities and other non-rural uses locating around them. Include a Rural Lifestyle Zone to provide opportunities for low density rural living in defined locations. Rural lifestyle living is sporadically located across the rural area and can affect rural character and the ongoing New setback rules to control the location of new land viability of rural industry. use activities, subdivision and sensitive activities, e.g. residential activities near existing industrial activities. New setback rules to control the location of industrial activities near sensitive natural features, e.g. waterbodies.
AN EXAMPLE OF WORKING WITH EXISTING LANDFORMS
Infrastructure and Connectivity
Issues Draft responses to issues Dispersed forms of development, cul-de-sacs and poor Establish an improved and transparent roading physical connections result in a continued reliance on hierarchy and include provisions requiring activities to motor vehicles to get around our neighbourhoods. provide a connected and integrated transport network covering all modes of transport. Stormwater management has led to increased pressure on waterways and unexpected ponding. Requirement to consider low-impact design, integrate stormwater design with natural land features and better Infrastructure has not always been planned and recognise the environmental impacts. integrated to achieve sustainable outcomes. Requirement to provide an integrated response to The link between where development is located and providing infrastructure to achieve environmental and what infrastructure will be needed, e.g. roading, water, social outcomes. wastewater, stormwater, public access and open space, can be improved in subdivisions and development New zone-based requirements for proposed new proposals. activities to demonstrate they are able to provide the necessary infrastructure in an appropriate manner.
Summary Guide | 13 Future Urban Growth Top 4
Issues Draft responses to issues There is an insufficient supply of residential zoned land Provide a growth strategy for the district to meet the to meet the projected increase of 1,000 people per year short, medium and long-term future growth needs while over 10 years (approximately 350 additional houses per ensuring a compact urban environment. year). Identify the areas suitable for both business and There is a need to identify and provide a sufficient supply residential urban growth as a future urban growth of land for residential and industry growth and ensure overlay. Top that it occurs in a cohesive, compact and structured way 4 within identified areas. Require areas identified for growth to be comprehensively developed using structure plans and Urban expansion can occur in an ad-hoc way, leading to implement controls on interim land use and subdivision inefficient development outcomes. to ensure the areas can transition to urban areas over time. Inappropriate activities within and adjacent to areas identified for urban growth can compromise their ability to be developed. Note: the future urban PROPOSED FUTURE URBAN GROWTH AREAS growth overlay will refine and replace the current future urban development overlay. We are doing some more work in this area to identify those areas where future growth is appropriate.
SMART ROAD
What do you think about the Living and Working Environments section? Are there any activities you think shouldn't locate in certain parts of our district, e.g. Residential Zone, Industrial Zone, etc? Do you think identifying areas for growth is a good idea? What areas in our district are good places to grow? Where should we define New Plymouth's southern city limits for residential development? What new industries will the District Plan need to accommodate?
14 | Draft District Plan Waterbodies Indigenous Biodiversity Natural Environments Natural Outstanding Natural Landscapes This section of the Draft District Plan includes the environment-related overlays, Environments Coastal Environment which are influenced by the Matters of Public Access National Importance in Section 6 of the RMA that relate to the natural environment. Natural Hazards
Waterbodies Issues Draft responses to issues Useable water is a fundamental resource for communities Recognise the natural values of waterbodies. and businesses and our waterbodies need careful management. Waterbodies have important natural and Continue to identify priority waterbodies in the district. cultural values that need to be recognised. Include new provisions that require certain activities to be appropriately setback from waterbodies and their Activities can prefer to locate along waterways so they margins. have sufficient water to operate.
Note: New Plymouth District Council can only regulate land uses on the margins of waterbodies. Taranaki Regional Council regulates discharges to water and water takes.
HUATOKI STREAM WAITARA RIVER
Summary Guide | 15 Indigenous Biodiversity Issues Draft responses to issues There have been significant historical losses in Recognise all land-based indigenous biodiversity and biodiversity from vegetation clearance and land consider the effects on biodiversity values for consent management practices. applications for certain activities. The main threats to biodiversity are from grazing and Continue to identify significant areas of indigenous pests and there is significant biodiversity benefits from vegetation as significant natural areas. working with landowners to achieve fencing and pest management. Similar provisions to the current District Plan which manage vegetation clearance. The RMA requires that areas of significant indigenous vegetation and habitats of indigenous fauna be identified Allow activities relating to day to day management and and protected through the District Plan. Not all areas are for cultural reasons. included in the current District Plan. The RMA has widened the Council’s function to the Note: As part of this District Plan review (and release maintenance of biodiversity. New Plymouth District of the Draft District Plan) the Council is working with Council has shared jurisdiction with Taranaki Regional landowners who have likely significant natural areas. Council. Refer to the significant natural areas section on the Council’s website.
The Council will continue to work in partnership with landowners and other agencies as they work towards covenanting important areas by providing funding through the Built, Cultural and Natural Heritage Fund.
The Council is a member of the Taranaki Biodiversity Accord and works in partnership with key biodiversity agencies.
LAKE MANGAMAHOE Outstanding Natural Landscapes Issues Draft responses to issues The district has outstanding natural landscapes that need Continue to identify outstanding natural landscapes and to be protected from inappropriate development including include new provisions that will control modifications to Mount Taranaki, the Pouakai and Kaitake Ranges and the landform, vegetation clearance, built development parts of the coast, e.g. Paritutu Rock and Mimi Estuary. and subdivision. Activities adjacent to some outstanding landscapes have, Continue to consider the effects on an outstanding in some cases, had an effect on landscape values. natural landscape for consent applications for certain activities locating on or adjacent to a landscape.
16 | Draft District Plan Coastal Environment Top 4 Issues Draft responses to issues The New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement (2010) Replace the coastal policy area with a new coastal requires the Council to identify and manage both modified overlay area that includes the coastal hazard area. The and natural landscapes, as well as historical, cultural and coastal overlay area will take a strategic approach to ecological values in the coastal environment. identify both natural character and coastal hazards by providing specific provisions to manage development The current District Plan identifies and manages natural that may impact on those matters. character under a coastal policy area and coastal hazards under a coastal hazard area. There is scope to Specifically concerning natural character, new rules consolidate this overlap and take a more strategic and will manage urban expansion, earthworks, removal of holistic approach to managing the coastal environment. vegetation, built development and subdivision in the coastal overlay area. The natural character of the coastal environment has been affected by development and buildings, particularly Updated information on the location of natural hazards in the rural environment, signalling that the current District and climate variability data will inform our provisions to Plan is not effectively managing activities in the coastal allow the impacts of coastal hazards to be appropriately environment. assessed in the coastal overlay area. Provisions will focus on discouraging new development and changes Parts of our coastline are subject to coastal hazards that in land use that will increase hazard risk. potentially put property at future risk. The coastal hazards information in the current District Plan does not reflect A pragmatic approach for management of low-lying current data and hazard trends (including sea level rise). areas through responsive rules and policies.
Note: New Plymouth District Council manages all activities landward of the high-tide mark. Taranaki Regional Council manages those activities from the high-tide mark and into the sea. This summary guide addresses access to the coast in the public access section.
Work is currently under way to identify natural character and coastal hazards and determine the extent of the coastal overlay area. So that we can better align with the approach of our neighbours at South Taranaki District Council, our coastal overlay area will be at least 100m wide. There are cases where it needs to be wider to take into account important landscapes, river mouths and important cultural and biodiversity values.
WAI-ITI BEACH
Summary Guide | 17 Public Access Top 4 Issues Draft responses to issues In some cases, public access to the district’s coastal Strengthened objectives and policies that promote the environment, lakes and rivers has been compromised enjoyment and use of any existing and proposed public by inappropriate development, e.g. large or dominating access to and along waterbodies or the coast. buildings and structures. An increased emphasis on priorities for public access Opportunities to secure public access have at times been by identifying the Council’s shared pathway network, missed, resulting in gaps in our network of strategic public including the Taranaki Traverse. access corridors. New rules will control earthworks, subdivision and built development in and around public access corridors and adjoining esplanade reserves.
Note: the Taranaki Traverse is a flagship project from the Blueprint that has the vision of delivering a pathway network that connects our rivers, the mountain and the coast. This project will showcase the district’s unique natural, cultural and physical features and will strengthen the district in becoming a world- class destination.
HUATOKI WALKWAY
Natural Hazards Issues Draft responses to issues There are a range of natural hazards in the district, Ensure that information regarding natural hazards is including flooding, coastal processes, earthquakes and current and implemented through effective rules and volcanoes. provisions. There is a need to ensure the risks from natural hazards are not increased by new development.
What do you think about the Natural Environments section? Is the approach for protecting our natural environment appropriate? Are there any values/areas that require particular attention? What level of risk should we accept as a community to coastal hazards? Are there any special management tools you would like to see applied in the coastal overlay area?
18 | Draft District Plan Historic Heritage Community Environments Trees This section of the Draft District Plan Community Viewshafts relates to community environments and Environments the protection of items and features that Entrance Corridors contribute to our sense of place and our shared history. Character Areas
Historic heritage includes heritage buildings and items, waahi taonga/sites of significance to Māori and archaeological sites. Historic Heritage Issues Draft responses to issues Although few high-value heritage buildings have been New objectives and policies that provide for the lost there have also been some unsympathetic alterations sympathetic structural upgrading and adaptive reuse of and additions made and the loss of some buildings with heritage buildings. heritage value. Similar rules to the current District Plan that prevent the There has been loss or accidental damage to some destruction or damage to identified historic heritage. waahi taonga/sites of significance to Mäori and/or This includes managing the impacts of earthworks, archaeological sites. vegetation clearance, subdivision and design of built development. Many of our heritage buildings require seismic strengthening if they are earthquake-prone so that they A more considered approach to heritage buildings in are safe for people to use. This can affect the economic our central city. viability of maintaining heritage. The RMA now requires comprehensive consideration of Note: existing scheduled built heritage items will be historic heritage matters. carried over from the current District Plan. The Council is working with iwi, hapü and landowners to review The Council will continue to contribute to the the current list of waahi taonga sites in the District protection of historic heritage through the Built, Plan. Refer to the waahi tapu and archaeological sites Cultural and Natural Heritage Fund. review section on the Council’s website.
WHITE HART HOTEL (photo courtesy of Strategy Collective)
Summary Guide | 19 Trees Issues Draft responses to issues We have many important trees that hold botanical, Continued scheduling of important trees with similar landscape, amenity, historical and cultural values that rules to the current District Plan that manage the need to be acknowledged. removal or damage to scheduled trees. This includes managing built development, earthworks and Trees in our central city contribute to the greening of our subdivision in the immediate vicinity of a scheduled city. Legislation changes no longer allow the Council to tree and controlling the removal of notable trees. apply blanket protection over trees that have not been individually assessed, e.g. trees over 6m in the central The introduction of central city trees that have high city, so an alternative method is required. value and also contribute to urban amenity values. These replace the previous blanket provisions applying to amenity trees. The trimming of scheduled trees by the Council or an approved arborist will continue to be a permitted activity.
Note. The current scheduled notable trees will be carried over from the current District Plan to ensure their ongoing protection. If you have a tree on your property that you think should be a notable tree please let us know as we can get it assessed for you.
A STAND OF NOTABLE TREES NEAR DEVON INTERMEDIATE Viewshafts Issues Draft responses to issues Distinctive or iconic views should not be obstructed Continued protection of important identified viewshafts by new buildings and structures but at the same time with similar rules to the current District Plan that the protection of these views should not unduly restrict manage the height of new buildings and structures development opportunities, especially in the central city. located within a viewshaft. Clearer policy direction on buildings or structures which impact on viewshafts to Mount Taranaki, the sea, Nga- Motu/Sugar Loaf Islands and important landmarks from public places.
Note: work is under way to examine the extent of viewshafts and whether these can be refined. We will also explore how important viewshafts that have cultural significance to tangata whenua can be recognised. We also want to improve how the maps and rules are interpreted.
MOLESWORTH STREET VIEWSHAFT
20 | Draft District Plan Entrance Corridors Issues Draft responses to issues It is important that the main roads leading to and from Continue to identify important entrance corridors, New Plymouth, Inglewood and Waitara are visually including Airport Drive. attractive. Currently we are experiencing varied outcomes as there are no requirements for development to enhance Include new provisions that will control the design of the entrance corridors unless resource consent is already development, new signage and provide for amenity required. planting and artwork adjoining an entrance corridor. Airport Drive is not currently identified as an entrance corridor, although it is the gateway to and from the airport.
NEW PLYMOUTH NORTHERN ENTRANCE CORRIDOR
Character Areas Issues Draft responses to issues The current District Plan recognises heritage character Identification of character areas in neighbourhoods (or areas within the district but provides no protection for areas that have special characters and features) to them. This has led to the loss of values in some areas. ensure they are not compromised by incompatible built form. There are areas with distinct character in the district that are not necessarily ‘heritage’ that deserve to be New provisions will promote retention of special identified. character or landscape values in these areas by managing demolition, vegetation retention, infill Loss of buildings from an area or unsympathetic housing, exterior alterations on primary frontages, development has compromised character values in some garaging, front boundary fencing, earthworks and areas. subdivision.
Note: this is a new concept for our district. Further work is required to identify possible character areas.
What do you think about the Community Environments section? Are there any special items or features that you think should also require particular recognition? What special parts of our district do you think could be recognised as a character area?
Summary Guide | 21 Subdivision Earthworks Traffic and Transport District-wide Activities Hazardous Substances This section of the Draft District Plan relates Contaminated Land to activities and effects that may occur in District-wide any zone within the district as opposed to Activities Energy those activities that are directed to occur in Network Utilities particular zones. These activities need to be managed to ensure communities are safe Signs and liveable environments for residents. Noise and Light Overspill Temporary Events
Subdivision Top 4 Issues Draft responses to issues Subdivision outcomes are not always directed by good New provisions to make sure subdivision is designed design; therefore, best practice is not always reflected in and located to suit the role and function of the particular the resulting development: zone. New subdivisions will need to: • Sometimes subdivisions do not connect roads • Provide connected and integrated infrastructure. and/or provide for alternative transport modes. • Historical (or current) stormwater management has led • Provide sustainable development and low-impact to increased pressure on waterways and unexpected design outcomes. ponding. • Continue to provide servicing for infrastructure and • Infrastructure has not always been planned and provide for sufficient open space. integrated to achieve sustainable outcomes. • Lot size and resulting buildings do not always make Note: subdivision sets the land patterns for future the best of the land available. development to occur within. The process provides the opportunity to address a wide range of potential The link between where development is located and issues, up front in an integrated way. what infrastructure will be needed, e.g. roading, water, wastewater, stormwater, public access and open space, These objectives and policies will be supported by can be improved in subdivisions and development zone-based subdivision rules. proposals.
22 | Draft District Plan Earthworks Issues Draft responses to issues There is an overlap in functions between New Plymouth New objectives and policies will specifically deal District Council and Taranaki Regional Council. Plan with earthworks and retaining structures especially users can find it difficult to work out what resource concerning natural hazards, land stability, effects on consent is required from which authority. historic heritage and natural features and landforms. Calculating the permitted quantity of earthworks can be Directive polices for setbacks from scheduled features, difficult to work out, enforce and assess. design of infrastructure and maximum cut and fill in zone-based rules. Earthworks can be undertaken in isolation of the wider development of the site. Note: these objectives and policies will be supported The number of heavy vehicle movements associated with by zone-based earthworks rules. earthworks can be difficult to manage. Traffic and Transport
Issues Draft responses to issues Some roads are under pressure from having Continue to reinforce the need for a safe and efficient inappropriate activities locating along them and/or transport network. inappropriate types and volumes of traffic. There is a need to be more proactive in managing the location of Require walking and cycling network to be provided for. certain activities and traffic effects on roads. Require high traffic-generating activities to be located Sensitive activities, e.g. housing locating along transport along appropriate roads where more traffic is expected networks, can affect the operation of roads and lead to and can be managed. reverse sensitivity effects. Require setbacks from state highways and rail corridor to deal with reverse sensitivity.
Note: these objectives and policies will be supported by zone-based rules.
BELL BLOCK ON-RAMP
Summary Guide | 23 Hazardous Substances and Contaminated land Issues The District Plan needs to be updated to reflect best practice and the current hazardous substances and site contamination legislation. Current District Plan provisions are technical and complex to understand.
Draft responses to issues Updated referencing to best practice requirements and clarification on the role of the Council in dealing with safety, hazardous substances and site contamination matters to minimise overlap with other legislation/ regulation. Removal of the obsolete hazardous facility screening procedure (HFSP) method of assessment. Continue the approach of locating hazardous substances away from sensitive activities and also require setbacks from important environmental features, e.g. the coast, historic heritage and scheduled features.
OIL AND GAS OPERATION Energy Top 4 Issues Draft responses to issues The significant role that energy-related activities play in Recognise the oil and gas sector as a major industry the local, regional and national economy is not currently that makes a significant contribution to the economic recognised. and social well-being of the district, region and nation. There are oil and gas activities occurring in the district Include specific provisions for new oil and gas activities that can be better managed to minimise the effects on and renewable energy activities, e.g. wind farms, to communities, the environment and the roading network. enable a full case-by-case assessment of any new proposals through the resource consent process. The current District Plan does not recognise the current best practice operations from industry that minimise the Recognition of the different phases of energy activities effects on the environment. and the requirement for best practice industry standards to be applied. There is a need to better manage cumulative, concurrent and consecutive energy activities. A greater emphasis on good site selection and in particular consideration to: • Locating high traffic-generating activities on appropriate roads (avoiding local roads where possible). • Requiring energy activities to be setback from sensitive activities, e.g. housing, and the coast, historic heritage and scheduled features and requiring new sensitive activities to be setback from existing energy activities.
24 | Draft District Plan Network Utilities Issues Draft responses to issues There is a need to further recognise and provide for Improved provisions to identify and provide for local important essential services to ensure that they are distribution networks, national grid yards and national provided in a planned and efficient manner. grid subdivision corridors, and associated setbacks for development from these networks. The provision of essential services needs to balance the management of potential impacts on communities, New provisions that allow for the ongoing upgrading sensitive activities and features against the management and maintenance of the existing network. of reverse sensitivity matters. New requirements requiring network utilities to be setback from sensitive activities and the coastal overlay area, historic heritage and scheduled features. New requirements for sensitive activities to be setback from existing network utilities. Improved guidance regarding the design or network utilities to minimise visual effects.
Signs Issues Draft responses to issues The proliferation of signs in the district has affected the Simplified provisions that recognise that signs are visual amenity of areas, and in some cases affected the important for advertising and way-finding, but must safety of the transport network. be balanced against maintaining visual amenity and safety. The signage provisions are complex and in some cases duplicate other requirements, and have led to high levels Similar rules to the current District Plan that allow for of non-compliance. smaller signs in residential and rural areas, and larger signs in commercial, rural industrial and industrial areas. New zone-based rules will control third party advertising outside of defined centres (with some restrictions). Signs will need to be located on the same site to which the sign relates, e.g. discouraging opportunist advertising in the rural area next to the state highway, which advertises a business or products available elsewhere. Zone-based rules will manage the scale and placement of signs.
Note: signs along state highways outside urban areas are managed by NZ Transport Agency.
Summary Guide | 25 Noise and Light Overspill Issues Draft responses to issues The current noise and light standards in the District Plan More directive provisions that recognise that some are out of date and it is appropriate that they be updated activities generate more noise and light overspill but at to reflect current best practice. the same time managing possible adverse effects on amenity values or more sensitive activities. The current measurement of noise effects at the notional boundary can lead to adverse noise effects on properties New zone-based rules that recognise most recent without consideration for how these effects can be noise and lighting standards. remedied or mitigated.
Note: the measurement of noise at the notional boundary is causing some issues and a more conservative approach is to measure noise at the site boundary.
Temporary Events Issues The importance of temporary events are currently recognised and this needs to be continued. Temporary events contribute to the social, economic and cultural well-being of the community but there are adverse effects that require managing, e.g. noise.
Draft responses to issues Retention of existing provisions that continue to allow for temporary events while also managing possible adverse effects.
What do you think about the District-wide Activities? Are there any special management tools you would like to see applied to these activities? Are there any existing rule standards that are difficult to use?
26 | Draft District Plan Zone Provisions Mana ā Rohe
We have developed new and strengthened existing zones to address the issues. We want to know if you think we’re on the right track. Once we have your feedback we will start mapping where these zones should be.
Summary Guide | 27
Centre and City Centre Centre and Commercial Zones Local Centre Four new zones have been developed to support our Commercial central city and local centres as the primary areas for Zones Commercial Service business and retail activity in the district. These zones Large Format Retail implement our centres hierarchy, as identified in our strategic District-wide Urban Development Policy.
City Centre Zone (Inner and Outer Areas) Top 4 This is a new zone that replaces our current District Plan Business A and B land and, in some areas, Business C land, located in the city centre.
Issues Draft responses to issues The city centre is the principal area for retail, office and Reinforce the role and function of the city centre entertainment activities (with a complementary residential as the principal centre for employment, retailing, component).The current District Plan zoning does not entertainment, and business activity in the district/ acknowledge it as the principal activity centre. region. There are a number of threats affecting retail activities Divide the city centre into an inner area and outer in the city centre including out of zone retail and online area. The inner area caters for all retail, commercial, shopping trends. office, entertainment and residential uses. The outer area focuses on mixed use but also encourages There is more capacity for people to live in and around transformation over time to more residential living. a vibrant city centre to provide for the intensification of jobs and housing, and to enjoy community and leisure To support a vibrant city centre, the zone will provide activities. for most activities, except for those that are not compatible, such as industry activities. There are mixed quality buildings and public spaces, and poorly designed or excessive signage. Better management of the design and appearance of new buildings to provide an attractive streetscape and Buildings located on pedestrian-orientated streets are not safe pedestrian environments, e.g. in the inner area always required to create pedestrian-friendly frontages, ensure that there are no vacant lots following building leading to missed opportunities to have activity at the demolition, that there are no residential activities ground floor street level. This includes clear entrances to at ground floor, and that expansive blank walls are buildings and display windows. avoided. More direction for building heights and recognition of corner sites and increased height.
Note: we are still working on the proposed boundaries for the city centre inner and outer areas and are keen to hear your feedback on our ideas on where these could be.
The city centre’s core is experiencing negative growth in retail activity, with an employment loss of almost 20 per cent since 2000. The city centre fringe and other centres in the district have seen LOOKING DOWN BROUGHAM STREET TOWARDS NEW PLYMOUTH CITY CENTRE positive growth.
28 | Draft District Plan We want lots of activity in our city centre and local centre zones. This is the focus for activity in our communities. Local Centre Zone Top 4 This is a new zone that will cover all centres outside of the city centre. This zone will replace our current District Plan Business A, B (applying to Waitara and Inglewood) and C (applying to all other small suburban and rural centres) land.
Issues Draft responses to issues Local centres are shopping areas in our small towns Reinforce the role and function of all local centres and suburban areas that offer retail for the surrounding by applying one zone that allows for a wide range of communities. compatible activities in the zone, to support existing activities and reinforce the variability of current land There are currently a mix of zonings within our centres uses. that do not always acknowledge their role and function. The zone will discourage new commercial service and Out of zone activities are affecting the ability for local industrial activities from locating in the zone to ensure centres to be effective. the role, function and viability of the local centre and There is a mixed quality of building design in some the city centre are protected. This also deals with centres. reverse sensitivity matters. To recognise the different scale and types of local centres, tailored design controls for new buildings could The district has close to 480 retail stores be developed for: 2 encompassing an estimated 160,000m of gross • Towns, e.g. Inglewood and Waitara. floor area. • Suburban shopping centres, e.g. Moturoa, Fitzroy and Bell Block. • Neighbourhood shops and rural service centres, e.g. Mill Road shops, Coronation Avenue shops, Okato and Urenui. The design controls could manage the appearance of new buildings to provide an attractive streetscape and safe pedestrian environments, e.g. no residential activities at ground floor, and improved design requirements to avoid expansive blank walls.
Note: further work is required to determine what, if any, design controls should apply in different local centres. Let us know if you have any suggestions on what these might be. We want to discuss this with our WAITARA CENTRE local communities.
MOTUROA CENTRE
Summary Guide | 29 Commercial Service Zone Top 4 This is a new zone that will replace our current District Plan Business B and D commercial land located along the one- way systems in New Plymouth and around the local centres of Inglewood, Waitara, Fitzroy and in the Waiwhakaiho Valley.
Issues Draft responses to issues The city centre is stretching, causing the disbursement of The zone will recognise the wide range of compatible retail and office activities on to the one-way systems. Not activities in the zone, to support existing commercial only can these businesses be difficult to access (other activities and reinforce the variability of current land than by car), it is undermining the role and function of the uses. The zone will acknowledge that the areas are city centre. characterised by larger scale, bulky buildings (such as warehouses and wholesale shops), orientated towards Retail and office activities should be clustered in the city the motorised customer, with parking usually provided centre or in local centres to ensure the centres remain on-site. viable and vibrant. The zone will discourage new retail, office and heavy The mix of different activities can result in reverse industry activities from locating in the zone to ensure sensitivity issues. the role and function and the viability of the city centre Building design and quality is generally low in these and local centres is protected, and to help manage areas and does not recognise the streetscape. reverse sensitivity matters. There will be better management of landscaping requirements and boundary treatments for sites Both retail and commercial activity is bleeding bordering the Residential Zone. away from the city centre core and spreading into the city centre fringe or local centres. In some cases The zone will discourage sensitive activities, e.g. it is locating outside of the commercial centres housing, from locating in it. altogether.
PROPOSED CITY CENTRE ZONE (INNER AND OUTER AREAS) AND COMMERCIAL SERVICE ZONE
30 | Draft District Plan Large Format Retail Zone Top 4 This is a completely new zone that will recognise large format retailing, which is situated in the Waiwhakaiho Valley.
Issues Draft responses to issues Changes in the retail market have led to big-box retail A new zone will specifically recognise existing large establishing outside of our traditional centres on industrial format retailing in New Plymouth. land. Unmanaged, this development has the potential to undermine the viability of the city centre and local The zone will control the scale of large retail centres. developments to protect the viability and vitality of the city centre and local centres. Industrial land supply could be compromised by future retailing, commercial service or office developments. The zone will improve development outcomes, including on-site design and layout, car parks and the Large retail developments can also generate high bulk and appearance of buildings. volumes of traffic. Resource consent will be required for mall or There are a mixed quality of buildings, on-site department store type retailing outside of the City infrastructure, and car parking layouts that are not Centre Zone. particularly pedestrian friendly. Sensitive activities, e.g. housing, will be discouraged from locating in the zone.
Note: new definitions relating to retail and office activities will be included.
WAIWHAKAIHO VALLEY What do you think about the Centre and Commercial Zones? Where do you think the zone boundaries should be for the City Centre Zone (Inner and Outer Areas) and the Commercial Service Zone? How do you think we can get more people living in the city centre? What should we be considering to get improved urban design outcomes? Should we look at how development is designed in our centres?
Summary Guide | 31 Industrial Zones Industrial activities are a hugely important part of our local economy. The industrial sector currently contributes Industrial Light Industry to the highest proportion of employment in the district, Zones Heavy Industry accounting for 30 per cent of total employment. The District Plan can help ensure there is sufficient industrial land supply and protection of industrial activities, to not only keep our existing industries running but also to attract and retain new businesses and talented workers.
Light and Heavy Industry Zones Top 4 These two new zones will replace our six current District Plan industrial areas. The zones recognise the importance of industry and protects its role and function from other competing land use activities and reverse sensitivity constraints.
Issues Draft responses to issues The current District Plan identifies six types of industrial Consolidate industrial environment areas into two zones. There is an opportunity to rationalise the number zones: Light Industry Zone and Heavy Industry Zone. of industrial zones and simplify the framework. The zones aim to: Currently there are few controls on the types of activities that can locate on industrial land. Retail, office and • Reinforce the role and function of industrial land by residential activities have crept into areas previously discouraging retail, office and residential activities. dominated by industrial activities. • Discourage activities that have the potential to compromise industrial land supply or result in Out of zone activities have the potential to, amongst piecemeal subdivision of industrial land. other things, affect industrial land supply, create reverse sensitivity issues, result in inefficient use of existing • Manage reverse sensitivity matters. industrial infrastructure and create unanticipated traffic • Manage stormwater and encourage low-impact issues. design outcomes. New retail activities establishing on industrial land New rules will require setbacks between industrial can undermine the viability of the city centre and local activities and sensitive activities, e.g. housing, the centres. coast, waterbodies, historic heritage and scheduled features.
What do you think about the Industrial Zones? Is the approach for protecting our industrial land appropriate? Are there any existing rules or standards that are difficult to use or should be retained? Are there areas of land in the district that should be considered for industrial rezoning to reflect existing land uses or to provide different opportunities? What activities should be excluded from these zones?
32 | Draft District Plan Living Zones Two new zones have been developed to support Living Residential residential living in the district. Simplified from Medium Density Residential the current approach that has three residential Zones areas, the purpose is to ensure adequate housing supply and to provide a range of housing choices to meet community needs. In addition it is also important to ensure that we achieve development outcomes that provide for a high level of amenity. The intent of these zones is to ensure they are pleasant, safe and liveable environments. Residential Zone Top 4 This is a new zone that will replace the current District Plan Residential A, some areas of Residential B and C areas. This zone covers the majority of our suburban areas where most people will live in New Plymouth, Waitara, Inglewood, Oakura and other rural centres.
Issues Draft responses to issues There is a need to provide for some residential growth in A new district-wide Residential Zone. established suburbs. The zone will discourage new retail, office and Some infill housing is poorly located and/or designed, industrial activities from locating in the zone to protect e.g. lack of private space, overlooking neighbours, poor both valued suburban character and the viability of the access to public transport and services, etc and affects city centre and local centres. the character of residential areas. New policies are aimed at improving building design Some residential areas in the district have special and streetscape outcomes and managing effects on character qualities that may warrant a different neighbouring residential properties. development approach. New rules are aimed at managing the design and There is a need to better manage out of zone activities, appearance of multi-unit developments, dedicated such as commercial activities, that have the potential to areas for private outdoor spaces and percentage of affect the function or amenity of residential areas. hard-surface areas. A more considered approach will be given to new garages and fences in front yards. New character areas aimed at retaining the special character or landscape values in certain areas.
Summary Guide | 33 Medium Density Residential Zone Top 4 This is a new zone that will replace some of our current District Plan Residential B areas and some fringe business areas around the city centre. This zone specifically relates to residential development in New Plymouth City where increased densities are appropriate, e.g. two storey townhouses on smaller sections located close to the city centre and local centres.
Issues Draft responses to issues Greater housing choice and supply is required in the A new zone that provides for medium density housing residential areas to support changing housing needs that will promote: resulting from diverse household structures, decreasing household size and an ageing population. • High-quality development, both in terms of buildings design and streetscape character. There is an opportunity to identify areas in New Plymouth • Amenity standards to ensure quality living suitable for medium density housing. environments for occupants of new housing, e.g. Medium density housing can help reduce associated sunlight, visual amenity, privacy, safety, etc. development costs for transport, waste management, • Variety of housing forms (including variations in water services and infrastructure by reducing urban style, type and scale). expansion. It can also help create more affordable housing options. • Suitable levels of protection for existing neighbours. The zone will discourage retail and office activities or other activities that may have the potential to undermine the role and function of the zone. The zone will manage the design and appearance of buildings, dedicated areas for private outdoor spaces and percentage of hard surface areas. Consideration willl also be given to the appearance of garages and fences fronting the street.
Note: further work is required to identify possible areas in New Plymouth that would be suitable as a Medium Density Residential Zone.
What do you think about the living Zones? Is the approach for managing our residential land appropriate? What needs to change to get a wider range of housing choices? What areas do you think would be suitable for medium density housing?
34 | Draft District Plan Open Space Zones Open spaces are where the community can Open Space Sport and Recreation engage in sport and recreation activities, exercise, Neighbourhood Open Space play, socialise, relax and connect with natural Zones Natural Open Space and historic heritage values. Recreation and open spaces also contribute to community identity, vibrancy and sense of place. These zones reflect their unique roles and characteristics and ensure that a mix of appropriate activities can be provided for while retaining the character and amenity values of open spaces. Open Space Zones Three new open space zones will replace the current District Plan Open Space A, B, C and Port Taranaki areas. The Council’s reserve management plans also play an important role in managing activities within open spaces.
Issues Draft responses to issues The descriptions used in the current District Plan for open Open space land will be recognised as one of three space areas do not reflect their role and function. zones: Sometimes, open space land comes under pressure • Sport and Recreation Zone. to accommodate different activities (such as retail). A • Neighbourhood Open Space Zone. more robust planning framework will help manage these situations. • Natural Open Space Zone. Bulky buildings associated with sport and active New tailor made objectives and policies reinforce the recreation activities can impact on open space values role and function of each open space zone, including and/or the amenity of surrounding properties. discouraging office and residential activities. The retention of spaciousness and character within open New zone-based rules will control aspects such as space is important to enable people to exercise, play, vegetation clearance, subdivision and design of built socialise and relax. development. The maintenance and enhancement of open spaces is important to retain the unique natural, ecological landscape, historic heritage and recreation values. Ninety-five per cent of the district’s residents are satisfied with the quality of parks and reserves, including the Coastal Walkway and Pukekura Park.
OUR OPEN SPACES CREATE AN ATTRACTIVE LIVING ENVIRONMENT!
What do you think about the Open Space Zones? Have we missed any open space management issues which require attention?
Summary Guide | 35 Māori Purpose Zone It is important that the Council acknowledges the role Māori Marae and of tangata whenua as kaitiaki (guardians) and provides Purpose Papakainga Housing opportunities to use land owned by Māori. One way of Zone doing this is to provide a Māori Purpose Zone that allows for activities that reflect Māori customs and values, such as marae and papakainga housing areas.
Māori Purpose Zone This is a new zone that will apply to areas where there are existing or proposed marae or papakainga. This zone allows tangata whenua to exercise kaitiakitanga in a way that accommodates tikanga Mäori.
Issues Draft responses to issues The District Plan does not currently provide for or support A new Mäori Purpose Zone identified on land owned by social or economic aspirations for tangata whenua Mäori within the urban and rural environment. The zone on land by Mäori, particularly marae and papakainga aims to provide flexibility so that tangata whenua are activities. able to exercise kaitiakitanga and tikanga Mäori over There are oportunities to provide for small-scale their land. commercial activities that promotes mixed use, focusing New provisions: on allowing people to live and work on ancestral land, e.g. Mäori tourism, cultural/environmental education. • Allow tangata whenua to undertake activities for Mäori purposes on land owned by Mäori such as marae, papakainga and small-scale commercial activities. • Support development in accordance with an iwi or hapü development plan (as an alternative to standard bulk and location controls). Apply bulk and location rules for buildings to provide on-site amenity, e.g. access to sunlight, privacy and to mitigate off-site amenity effects on adjoining properties.
POUWHENUA WELLINGTON What do you think about the Māori Purpose Zone? Is the approach for managing Mäori land appropriate? Have we missed any issues that require particular attention?
36 | Draft District Plan Rural Zones Two new zones have been developed to protect our Rural Rural Production rural land and support rural activities (especially our agricultural base, nationally significant oil and Zones Rural Lifestyle gas sector and fast-growing poultry industry) and to provide managed opportunities for lifestyle block activities. Some rural land in our district, especially land located on the edge of the New Plymouth City boundaries, is under pressure to be used for urban purposes.
Rural Production Zone Top 4 This zone replaces the rural environment area in the current District Plan. It is now more directive regarding the anticipated outcomes for the zone.
Issues Draft responses to issues There are examples where residential, industrial and A Rural Production Zone allowing a wide variety commercial activities have been allowed to establish in of activities, including farming, intensive farming, the rural environment. In some cases, this has affected residential activities associated with the land use, the role and function of productive rural activities, rural community activities (e.g. rural school or hall) and resources and regionally significant industries. forestry. Unmanaged, this can have unforeseen reverse sensitivity Strengthen objectives and policies which recognise effects and traffic issues, and place pressure on existing and protect the role and function of rural activities, rural infrastructure. resources and regionally significant industries to the When considering new development in rural areas, social and economic well-being of the district. potential effects on rural character, sensitive activities New setback rules requiring separation distances and features, and cumulative effects, especially traffic, between new houses and large-scale rural activities need to be managed. and rural industry that may be sensitive to people living nearby. Manage the size and scale of subdivision and new built development in the Rural Production Zone.
CORNER OF SNELL ROAD AND INLAND NORTH ROAD
Summary Guide | 37 Rural Lifestyle Zone This is a new zone aimed at providing rural lifestyle living in selected areas of our district.
Issues Draft responses to issues The current District Plan does not identify areas that A new zone which identifies limited areas for rural may be suitable for rural lifestyle living. As a result, rural lifestyle living. lifestyle subdivisions are undertaken in an ad-hoc manner and some are in inappropriate locations. New objectives and policies aimed at managing rural lifestyle character. Rural lifestyle areas should not compromise the potential of productive rural land. New rules to control land use and subdivision within the zone, e.g. allotment sizes of 1 ha or 4000m². Rural lifestyle living can provide an alternative form of housing choice but should maintain rural lifestyle character.
CARRINGTON ROAD
What do you think about the Rural Zones? Is the approach for protecting rural land and rural activities appropriate? What activities require management to protect rural uses? Should setbacks from large rural industry be considered? What areas do you think are suitable for rural lifestyle living?
38 | Draft District Plan Major Facility Zone Major Facilities that are Major facilities are nationally or regionally significant, nationally or and contribute to the economic and social well-being Facility Zone regionally significant of the community. Facilities in this zone include major transport/logistic facilities, major rural industry and major community facilities.
Major Facility Zone Top 4 This is a new zone that applies to major facilities that are nationally or regionally significant. Due to their large scale, they require a zoning that is tailored to manage the operational needs of the facility and environmental effects both within the site and at zone interfaces.
Issues Draft responses to issues Each major facility is large-scale and can comprise a A new zone which applies to: range of activities related to the principal activity. • Major transport/logistic facilities. Major facilities should be able to operate and develop • Major rural industry facilities. in a flexible and adaptive manner and provide certainty to the surrounding community on what effects they can • Major community facilities. anticipate. The zone aims to recognise and protect the role and Major facilities located near a different zone, sensitive function of major facilities and their contribution to local, activities and/or features can generate significant effects regional and national social and economic well-being. (especially cumulative effects and traffic effects). New policy direction requiring the use of concept plans in order to deliver development in a comprehensive, coordinated and efficient way. New rules requiring setbacks between some major facilities and sensitive activities (e.g. housing), the coast, historic heritage, waterbodies and scheduled features.
What do you think about the Major Facility Zone? Is the approach for protecting our major facilities appropriate?
Summary Guide | 39
Further Information This summary outlines the key issues and the changes we are proposing. For more detailed information, it is important that you read the Draft District Plan or talk to a member of the District Planning Team who can explain how the proposed changes may affect your property/business. You can obtain more information on the Draft District Plan from: • New Plymouth District Council, Liardet Street, New Plymouth. • Our website: www.newplymouthnz.com/DistrictPlan. • The District Planning Team, phone 06-759 6060 or email [email protected].
Where we are at
New Plymouth Plan Preparation timeline District Blueprint (Dec 2014) District Plan Evaluation Proposed Monitoring, Issues Draft District Plan and Options District Plan Development (all sections) Operative District Plan We are Mid 2017 here
Why should I comment? The Draft District Plan focuses on introducing a new strategic policy direction for New Plymouth District. The draft plan includes a summary of rules only. It does not include planning maps and detailed rules as these have not been developed yet. We want to ensure we have got things on the right track before progressing further. As noted in this summary guide, there are many areas where we are still undertaking further work and this, together with your feedback on the Draft District Plan, will help shape the final rules and content for the planning maps. Your feedback is important and can be built into the formal Proposed District Plan, which is due to be notified mid-2017. There are many ways to send us your views • Answer the questions in the various sections within this summary guide and post to: NPDC District Plan Review Feedback Reply Paid DX DX Box NX10027, New Plymouth; • Deliver your feedback to the Civic Centre, Liardet Street, New Plymouth; or to the library and service centres in Bell Block, Inglewood or Waitara. • Provide your feedback online at newplymouthnz.com/HaveYourSay. • Email us at [email protected]
We would like your feedback by 5pm on Friday, 16 December 2016
40 | Draft District Plan
For more information: New Plymouth District Council Private Bag 2025 New Plymouth
Phone: 06-759 6060 Email: [email protected] Web: newplymouthnz.com
Draft District Plan 1
Contents Strategic Context 3 Draft District Plan Framework 7 District-wide Provisions 13 • Living and Working Environments 14 • Natural Environments 25 • Community Environments 39 • District-wide activities 50 Zone Provisions 73 • Centre and Commercial Zones 74 • Industrial Zones 92 • Living Zones 98 • Open Space Zones 112 • Mäori Purpose Zone 120 • Rural Zones 123 • Major Facility Zone 132 Activity List Interpretation 137 Appendices 147
This is a draft only and we want to know if we are on the right track. Please read this document in conjunction with the Summary Guide. The Summary Guide contains questions and details on how to provide feedback on the Draft District Plan.
2 Draft District Plan
Strategic Context
The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) requires all councils to review their district plans every 10 years. The RMA requires the District Plan to sustainably manage the natural and physical resources of the district to meet the needs of current and future generations and to provide for their social, economic and cultural well-being and for their health and safety.
Issues have emerged since the last District Plan and as part of the review process, the Council will be updating the District Plan to ensure it is relevant and that it references up-to-date changes in legislation, national policy statements, environmental standards and other regulations.
New Plymouth District Council manages the environment alongside Taranaki Regional Council, and the District Plan must give effect to the Regional Policy Statement for Taranaki (2010).
Draft District Plan 3 The New Plymouth District Blueprint The New Plymouth community and the Council have jointly developed a District Blueprint. This is a high level spatial plan for the district that will guide and integrate Council decisions and planning. It is a key driver shaping the review of the District Plan. The Blueprint identifies eight key directions that will be the Council’s planning focus for the next 30 years. The key directions clearly communicate to agencies, businesses, industries, iwi, hapū and the community how the Council will focus its resources and deliver on the community outcomes.
4 New Plymouth District Council Tangata Whenua It is important that the Council, through its District Plan, acknowledge tangata whenua’s kaitiaki and value Te Ao Mäori. In order to implement this, the Council has endeavoured to incorporate the following into each chapter of the District Plan (through the use of objectives and policies).
Treaty of Waitangi (Te Tiriti o Waitangi) principles. The Council will have regard to the Treaty principles by seeking to establish effective relationships with iwi and hapū, acting cooperatively and in good faith, showing flexibility and responsiveness and demonstrating a desire to engage with Māori.
Sustainably managing natural and physical resources will be integral to promoting kawanatanga, rangatiratanga, partnership, active participation, resource development and spiritual recognition.
Have particular regard to kaitiakitanga in managing the use, development and protection of natural and physical resources in the district in a way that accommodates the views of individual iwi and hapū. The Council will consult with iwi and hapū on an individual basis to determine how kaitiakitanga can be recognised and integrated in the management of the use, development and protection of natural and physical resources in the district.
Recognise and provide for the cultural and traditional relationship of Māori with their ancestral lands, water, air, coastal environment, waahi tapu and other sites and taonga within the district. Encouraging and supporting development of land and marae is important in enabling Iwi and hapū to connect with their ancestral lands.
The district is rich in cultural and historical heritage. The protection of waahi taonga sites, other features of significance, outstanding natural features and landscapes from activities is therefore important in retaining cultural and historic heritage values.
The district’s waterbodies and the coast are also important to iwi and hapū. Protecting and enhancing mahinga kai, waterbodies and coastal areas of significance to iwi and hapū is therefore of importance.
Manage natural and physical resources in the district in a manner that takes into account the cultural and spiritual values of iwi and hapū and respects and accommodates tikanga Māori. The District Plan promotes the sustainable management of the region’s resources that have cultural and spiritual values and encourages the development of procedures and approaches that strengthen partnerships in resource management and to recognise tikanga Mäori and tribal rangatiratanga.
Support and enable activities that allow tangata whenua to provide for their economic, social and cultural well-being. The Council will work together with tangata whenua to support iwi and hapū strategic aspirations, understand their direction and provide support for development opportunities, including the development of Treaty Settlement land within the district.
Draft District Plan 5
6 New Plymouth District Council
The District Plan proposes a new framework with new objectives, policies and zones. It also includes rule summaries that give a steer on the specific standards that are being considered.
The new framework is strongly driven by the Blueprint’s eight key directions. The key directions are reflected in the district-wide provisions providing the strategic basis for many of the zone- based provisions. The zone-based provisions, e.g. matters that are particularly relevant to the zone, are how the district-wide provisions will be delivered. This framework is supported by the planning maps (note: these have not yet been developed).
Draft District Plan 7
8 New Plymouth District Council
Draft District Plan 9 How to use the District Plan The District Plan contains two major sections: district-wide provisions and zone provisions.
The district-wide provisions comprise chapters relating to resource management issues and/or activities undertaken across the district. The new living and working environment sections provide the strategic basis for the development of the zones. The natural and community environment sections provide for physical features and overlays, many that are included in the current District Plan. The district-wide activities are those that may occur across zones.
The zone provisions comprise chapters relating to particular zones (or geographical areas) and contain zone specific provisions.
The two sections are not stand-alone and inform each other.
The District Plan is a hybrid meaning it has activity-based provisions and effects-based provisions. The specific provisions within each chapter are: a) Draft Objectives. These describe the desired outcome for the particular resource management issues that have been identified as relevant for the district. The objectives are clear statements of the outcomes intended. b) Draft Policies. These describe how the objectives are to be achieved and/or provide direction on the considerations that are relevant to ensure objectives are achieved. There are different types of policies throughout the District Plan that should be read as a whole because together they provide clear direction for plan users.
The different types of policies serve different functions. For instance, some policies relate to the way in which items, features or areas will be identified and categorised in the District Plan, some indicate the way in which different activities are to be treated and managed and other policies provide guidance to users and decision-makers on the types of matters that will be important to consider when assessing whether an activity and its effects will achieve the objectives. When reading the policies, note that the term activity means land use, development and subdivision. c) Rule Summaries. These summarise the rules that are being contemplated at this stage. Rules are generally how the policies will be achieved/implemented. It is intended that there will be activity-based rules and effects-based rules that will be developed following the feedback received in this draft plan phase. The planning maps will also be developed following this feedback.
How is the District Plan intended to work? In order to assess how the District Plan will apply to a particular proposal or site, it will be necessary to assess all relevant sections of the District Plan. The following steps will assist users to determine how the District Plan will be applied.
Step 1: Review the planning maps Review the planning maps to identify what zone applies to the site and whether there are any special features or overlays on the site. Note the planning maps have not yet been developed.
10 New Plymouth District Council Step 2: Ascertain the activity status of the activity proposed (this step will be clearer once rules are in place in the next stage). At this stage refer to the rule summary for general guidance. a) Review the zone provisions to see whether the activity is specifically listed. If it is specifically listed, it will have an activity status as indicated by the District Plan, e.g. permitted, controlled, discretionary, non-complying or prohibited.
b) Review the district-wide provisions to see whether the activity is specifically listed. If it is specifically listed, and the activity has a different activity status from that indicated in the zone, the most restrictive activity status applies, e.g. permitted, controlled, discretionary, non-complying or prohibited.
c) Where an activity is not specifically listed in either the zone provisions or district- wide provisions, it is presumed to be permitted provided it can meet all relevant effects rules. If an activity cannot meet an effects rule, the activity will have the activity status as indicated by the effects rule.
Step 3: For activities requiring consent, consider the relevant objectives and policies Where an activity requires consent, e.g. discretionary or non-complying activities, the relevant objectives and policies must be considered. These are intended to provide direction for both applicants and decision-makers in the resource consent process. Policies will be identified and linked to relevant rules so that this makes assessment more streamlined.
Generally, the activity-based policies in each zone categorise activities into three types: Activities that are allowed as they are considered compatible with the role, function and predominant character of a zone. These activities will be listed as permitted/controlled activities and/or are those which meet the permitted/ controlled standards in the relevant effects rules.
Activities that are to be managed as they are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of a zone. These activities will be listed as discretionary activities and/or are those which are not specifically listed, but are discretionary as they do not meet an effects rule.
Activities that are to be avoided as they are considered incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of a zone. These activities will be listed as non-complying activities and/or are those which are not specifically listed, but are non-complying as they do not meet an effects rule.
The effects-based policies provide direction on the types of effects that are to be avoided, remedied or mitigated and the considerations that are relevant to determining whether or not an activity’s effects are appropriate in its proposed location and consistent with the District Plan’s objectives and policies.
Draft District Plan 11
12 New Plymouth District Council
Living and Working Environments • Urban Development • Rural Development • Infrastructure and Connectivity • Future Urban Growth
Natural Environments • Waterbodies • Indigenous Biodiversity • Outstanding Natural Landscapes • Coastal Environment • Public Access • Natural Hazards
Community Environments • Historic Heritage • Trees • Viewshafts • Entrance Corridors • Character Areas
District-wide Activities • Subdivision • Earthworks • Traffic and Transport • Hazardous Substances • Contaminated Land • Energy • Network Utilities • Signs • Noise and Light Overspill • Temporary Events
Draft District Plan 13
Urban Development It is important that the District Plan directs where different types of activities should locate to ensure the efficient use of land and the best living and working environments for the community. In the urban areas similar types of activities that serve particular functions have either naturally or by design ended up being located in similar locations. Such groupings form the basis for zones where activities and their effects are managed to support the wider strategic objectives for the district. This approach provides a clear regulatory signal for business and industry providing more investment certainty, while ensuring the character and amenity of existing zones, and in particular living zones, are not compromised by incompatible activities. It also helps to implement the district’s centres hierarchy by directing retail, business and entertainment into the centres.
Objectives
UD-O1 A cohesive urban environment that allows the district’s communities to enjoy liveable, connected, accessible and safe urban spaces to live, work and play.
UD-O2 Compatible activities are located together in zones to ensure there is a compact urban environment that uses land and resources efficiently while providing for: a sufficient supply of urban land; maintenance of the role and function of the zone; sufficient infrastructure availability and capacity; predominant activities and the character and amenity values associated with those activities; and the avoidance of conflict between incompatible activities.
UD-O3 Urban form comprises good quality design and incorporates sustainable development principles.
UD-O4 A range of housing choices are available across the district to provide different types of housing options in quality living environments.
UD-O5 Business and retail activities are located in the central city and local centres to ensure vibrant and viable hubs for shopping, leisure, living and entertainment experiences for the community.
UD-O6 Business and industrial activities provide for the economic and social well-being and prosperity of the district and are able to operate effectively and efficiently while managing adverse effects.
14 New Plymouth District Council Objectives
UD-O7 There are a range of opportunities for tangata whenua to exercise kaitiakitanga and provide for their unique social, cultural, economic and environmental well- beings across urban areas.
Policies
UD-P1 Identify and provide a sufficient supply of land for the purpose of meeting the community’s diverse social and economic housing needs where quality living
environments and a range of housing densities and forms are enabled as follows: general residential living in established residential neigbourhoods that are predominantly characterised by low density housing and traditional housing forms, typically involving one house on each site; medium density housing in and around the central city, local centres and transport nodes in areas where the character will transition to medium density housing over time, and predominantly involve multi-unit houses on each site; opportunities for increased medium and high density housing in the city and local centres that will assist to contribute to a vibrant, mixed use environment; a range of densities and housing forms in new neighbourhoods and areas appropriate for growth where the predominant character will transition over time; and papakainga housing that provides for the ongoing relationship of tangata whenua with ancestral land and for their social, cultural, economic and environmental well-being.
UD-P2 Identify and provide appropriate land for the purpose of ensuring vibrant, viable, compact and well-distributed centres across the district where a range of activities
are enabled in varying intensities that are consistent with the district’s centres hierarchy as follows: Principal centre City centre. A wide range of the highest concentration of business, retail and entertainment activities that serve the district and the wider region. The city centre is predominantly characterised by a range of high density mixed use buildings, including buildings in the heart of the city with retail activities on the ground floor and living and/or business activities on upper levels; Local centres i) Towns - Inglewood and Waitara. A range of business, retail and entertainment activities that serve the needs of each town’s community and surrounding rural areas. The towns are predominantly characterised by a range of mixed use buildings with retail activities on the ground level; ii) Suburban shopping centres – Bell Block, Fitzroy, Hurdon, Merrilands, Moturoa, Spotswood, Vogeltown and Westown. Convenience-based and specialty retail, business and entertainment activities to serve the needs of the immediate and surrounding suburbs. These centres are predominantly characterised by a grouping of buildings with a variety of
Draft District Plan 15 Policies retail and business service activities on the ground level and they may be located close to residential land; iii) Neighbourhood shops and rural service centres – Blagdon, Coronation Avenue shops, Frankleigh Park shops, Mill Road shops, Oakura, Okato, Strandon and Urenui. Small-scale convenience-based business and retail activities to serve the day to day needs of the local neighbourhood. The centres are predominantly characterised by a small number of retail shops close to residential land; and Large format retail – Waiwhakaiho Valley. Large format retail activities in buildings with large floor areas that are generally vehicle orientated. Small- scale convenience and/or speciality business and retail activities are not typical.
UD-P3 Identify and provide a sufficient supply of appropriate land for the purpose of ensuring that business and industry are able to operate effectively and efficiently,
provide employment opportunities, and manufacture, process and distribute or sell goods and services for the benefit of the community, where activities are enabled as follows: commercial service activities in areas around the city centre and local centres that are predominantly characterised by larger scale, bulky buildings with parking usually provided for on-site; light industry activities in areas along key transport routes to ensure efficient transportation of products and/or areas that are separated from sensitive activities through distance and/or topography. These areas are predominantly characterised by a variety of commercial buildings used for light industrial activities that can potentially generate noise, light, dust, odour and traffic effects and involve the storage and use of hazardous substances; and heavy industry activities in areas along key transport routes to ensure efficient transportation of products and in areas that are serviced by appropriate infrastructure and waste disposal services. The areas are separated from sensitive activities through distance and topography and/or screened from other areas. These areas are predominantly characterised by large scale buildings used for heavy industrial activities that can potentially generate objectionable noise, light, dust, odour and traffic effects and involve the storage of hazardous substances.
UD-P4 Identify and provide appropriate land for the purpose of ensuring the community can exercise, play, socialise and relax where sport and recreation and leisure
activities are enabled and where natural, ecological, historic heritage and landscape values are recognised as follows: a range of sport and recreation activities for local, district-wide and regional communities in parks, sports grounds and multi-sport facilities. Sport and recreation areas are predominantly characterised by large open space areas with associated buildings and facilities that vary in scale depending on the sport and recreation activities that take place there. These activities can generate noise, light and traffic effects in surrounding neighbourhoods; a range of leisure activities and informal uses in neighbourhood, district and regional parks and walkways that can generate varying traffic and noise effects. The areas are predominantly characterised by open spaces with low
16 New Plymouth District Council Policies levels of development and built form but they can also have important natural and historic heritage values; areas with natural, ecological, historic heritage and landscape values requiring recognition, maintenance and/or enhancement that are predominantly characterised by those values and minimal development and built form.
UD-P5 Identify and provide a zone for the purpose of recognising and providing for existing major facilities where major facility activities are enabled and: the major facilities are nationally and/or regionally significant, strategically important to the district and support the economic and social well-being of the community; the predominant character comprises the existing major facilities and major facility activities; and sensitive activities in proximity to major facilities are managed appropriately to ensure the ongoing operation of the major facility is not compromised.
UD-P6 Identify and provide a zone for the purpose of recognising and providing for the unique social, cultural, economic and environmental well-being of tangata whenua where Mäori purpose activities are enabled and: there are existing or future marae, papakainga housing and cultural activities that provide for the ongoing relationship of Mäori with their ancestral land; and tangata whenua are able to exercise kaitiakitanga and integrate matauranga Mäori and tikanga Mäori into development and the management of effects.
UD-P7 Manage zone interfaces to reduce conflict with surrounding activities and avoid, remedy or mitigate the adverse effects of incompatible activities.
UD-P8 Ensure activities achieve good quality design and sustainable development outcomes by:
integrating natural processes and topography into the design of development to minimise environmental impacts or enhance natural features; recognising the local context and character of an area; enabling safe communities with reduced crime and perceptions of crime; providing ease of movement in communities that have connected transport networks, encourage a range of transport modes and minimise the use of private motorised vehicles where possible; incorporating Te Aranga Principles where appropriate; providing for low impact design and opportunities for healthy, accessible, energy efficient buildings; and providing for the efficient use of infrastructure.
Rule summary These objectives and policies do not have direct rules related to them but provide the basis for the urban zones.
Draft District Plan 17 Rural Development Rural land is an important resource which underpins the social, economic and cultural well- being of the district. The principal functions of the rural environment are to provide for productive rural activities such as pastoral farming, livestock, horticulture and forestry; resource extraction activities such as quarrying, oil and gas; the vast majority of the district's indigenous vegetation and habitat for indigenous species; the source of our water supplies and the location of many sites of cultural significance.
There is sporadic lifestyle development throughout the rural zone that if not managed can lead to the inefficient use of land and impact the function of the rural area as a productive area.
Objectives RD-O1 The contribution of rural activities, rural resources and regionally significant industries to the social and economic well-being of the community are recognised.
RD-O2 Productive land and resources support a range of production oriented and resource dependent activities which are innovative and efficient.
RD-O3 Natural, physical and cultural resources located within productive areas that are of significance to the district are protected and maintained.
RD-O4 Limited areas for rural lifestyle living are provided while ensuring that the potential and versatility of productive land is not compromised.
RD-O5 Farming and rural-based activities are able to operate efficiently and effectively without being constrained or compromised by new incompatible land uses.
RD-O6 There are a range of opportunities for tangata whenua to exercise kaitiakitanga and provide for their unique social, cultural, economic and environmental well- beings across rural areas.
Policies RD-P1 Identify and provide land for the purpose of ensuring that rural activities and rural industry contribute to the social and economic well-being of the district where rural and rural industry activities are enabled and: productive, versatile land is reserved for rural and rural industry activities; and the predominant character includes: i) production oriented working environments where rural activities generate noise, smells, light overspill and traffic, including heavy vehicles, often on a cyclic and seasonal basis; ii) a predominance of vegetation of varying types (pasture for grazing, crops, forestry, and bush) with few structures; iii) low density built form with open space between buildings that are predominantly used for rural activities, such as barns and sheds; iv) existing rural communities and community activities, such as rural halls, domains and schools; and
18 New Plymouth District Council Policies v) the presence of rural infrastructure, including rural roads, and the on- site disposal of waste. There is a general lack of urban infrastructure such as street lighting and footpaths.
RD-P2 Identify and provide limited land for the purpose of providing for rural lifestyle living opportunities where: fragmentation and urbanisation of productive, versatile land is avoided; the land is located in proximity to existing urban areas and community facilities/services; and the predominant character includes: i) low density living activities and/or small-scale rural activities; ii) a general absence of urban infrastructure such as footpaths, kerb and channel, street lights and wastewater services and there is low traffic volumes on roads; and iii) areas of vegetation and natural features.
RD-P3 Identify and provide a zone for the purpose of recognising and providing for existing major facilities where major facility activities are enabled and: the major facilities are nationally and/or regionally significant, strategically important to the district and support the economic and social well-being of the community; the predominant character comprises the existing major facilities and major facility activities; and sensitive activities in proximity to major facilities are managed appropriately to ensure the ongoing operation of the major facility is not compromised.
RD-P4 Allow rural industry that depends on rural resources or requires large areas of land to occur in the rural zone provided the activities are located: a) on preferred heavy transport routes; b) away from sensitive landscapes and features; and c) with appropriate setback from sensitive activities.
RD-P5 Allow for community activities that support the rural community and their sense of identity.
RD-P6 Manage activities at the rural zone interface to reduce conflict with surrounding activities and avoid, remedy or mitigate the adverse effects of incompatible activities.
Rule summary These objectives and policies do not have direct rules related to them but provide the basis for the rural, rural lifestyle and major facility zones that are located within the rural, productive areas of the district.
Draft District Plan 19 Infrastructure and Connectivity Infrastructure refers to public works and network utilities such as water supply, stormwater disposal and sewage disposal and also electricity, gas and telecommunications networks. Infrastructure is costly to develop and maintain so it is important that land use planning and infrastructure planning is integrated. It is also important to anticipate future land uses and connections so that infrastructure continues to be of value in the future.
Infrastructure also includes the transport network that provides for the movement of people, goods and services in and out of, and within the district. The transport network also plays a vital social role by linking together communities and other regions. Dispersed forms of development, cul-de-sacs and poorly connected communities can increase the reliance on private vehicles and lead to social isolation. Therefore emphasis is placed on ensuring there is ease of movement in our communities via a connected transport network. A variety of transport choices will also help to improve the overall well-being of the community.
The Council’s adopted Land Development and Subdivision Infrastructure Standard, which is based on NZS4404:2010 with local amendments, sets out the minimum standards of technical performance and quality for the subdivision and development of land and infrastructure. The standard informs a number of the infrastructure provisions in the District Plan.
Objectives
IC-O1 Infrastructure services the needs of existing and planned activities and enables the growth, development and economic well-being of the district.
IC-O2 Infrastructure is designed and provided in a way that ensures: an efficient, integrated and connected infrastructure and transport network; a cohesive, compact urban environment with quality living environments and safe and functional working environments; natural processes and topography are integrated into the design and the incorporation of sustainable, low impact design methods, where possible; and the health and well-being of the community is provided for, while minimising any adverse effects on the environment.
Policies
IC-P1 Identify a transport network hierarchy which classifies the different types of roads and pathways based on their purpose, strategic function and volume of traffic anticipated, e.g. state highways, arterial, collector and local roads, roads for heavy haulage and access links.
IC-P2 Identify and provide an indicative transport network which: encourages connectivity and ease of movement in communities; and assists to create a compact urban environment while supporting growth and intensification.
IC-P3 Require that the provision and design of the transport network is safe and efficient and achieves connectivity by:
20 New Plymouth District Council Policies linking to existing networks, access links, public transport routes and open space networks; contributing to shorter travel distances and providing choices for users; providing transport networks that allow ease of movement within, to and from the activity for a variety of users; providing increased opportunity for social interaction, particularly in centres and residential neighbourhoods; supporting low impact urban design principles including the integration of natural features; and making it accessible for all users, including the transport disadvantaged and mobility impaired.
IC-P4 Require activities involving land with an indicative transport network to provide for the indicative transport network by: locating or designing the activity to integrate and implement the indicative transport network and provide connectivity; and/or off-setting any adverse effects on the intended transport network and connectivity by providing an alternative transport network with the same or similar levels of connectivity.
IC-P5 Require that the design, provision and maintenance of infrastructure is efficient, integrated and connected by: a) integrating natural features, natural processes and topography; b) effectively managing and disposing of stormwater, including through the use of sustainable, low impact design methods where possible; c) providing a safe potable water supply for consumption, health, hygiene and firefighting purposes, with sufficient capacity to meet the needs of the activity; d) providing a way to dispose of sewage in a sanitary manner which minimises adverse effects on the health and functioning of the environment; and e) providing sufficient capacity for electricity, gas and telecommunications networks.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Minimum setback between the closest part of any structure and the edge of an indicative transport network for erection of structures on an allotment containing an indicative transport network. Manage as a discretionary activity • Subdivision of an allotment containing an indicative transport network.
Draft District Plan 21 Future Urban Growth Our district is growing and we need to consider how we provide for growth into the future. The growth strategy for the district is to respond to the demand requirements of the community and to have cohesive, well planned growth that strengthens the city and townships. As a result of the anticipated population growth, new growth areas will be required in the city and towns to provide for additional houses and industry. The District Plan sets out where growth will be accommodated in the future through providing adequate land supply and planning for network infrastructure. Urban growth is provided for on residential and business land and requires structure planning. Appendix one contains a map showing the proposed future urban growth areas.
Objectives
FUG-O1 Urban growth in the district occurs in a cohesive, compact and structured way and occurs predominantly in areas identified for future urban growth.
FUG-O2 Future urban growth is enabled within identified growth areas provided it is comprehensively planned by a structure plan.
FUG-O3 Future urban growth areas transition from rural to urban and the effects of the transition are managed.
FUG-O4 Activities within and in proximity to identified growth areas do not compromise the ability to develop the growth areas.
Policies
FUG-P1 Identify and provide land to meet the short, medium and long-term future growth needs of the district, while ensuring a compact urban environment that enables growth as follows: in existing undeveloped residential areas in the short-term; in the residential southern growth areas of New Plymouth city in the short to medium-term; in the Smart Road growth area as required in the long-term; in areas identified in rural towns and centres to build viable and strong communities; and between Egmont Road and Smart Road and around the airport for future industry land.
Residential growth areas
FUG-P2 Allow activities as follows: where there is a structure plan in place, activities that are in accordance with the structure plan for the area and are permitted activities in the Residential Zone; or where there is no structure plan in place, small-scale rural activities that will not compromise the ability to comprehensively develop and use the growth area for residential activities.
22 New Plymouth District Council Policies
FUG-P3 Manage activities that may potentially compromise the ability to comprehensively develop and use the growth areas for residential activities, including: business and retail activities; and subdivision.
FUG-P4 Avoid activities that will compromise the ability to comprehensively develop and use the growth areas for residential activities, including: rural industry; industry; and small lot rural/rural lifestyle subdivision.
Industrial growth areas
FUG-P5 Allow activities as follows: where there is a structure plan in place, activities that are in accordance with the structure plan for the area and are permitted activities in the Light Industry Zone; or where there is no structure plan in place, small scale rural activities that will not compromise the ability to comprehensively develop and use the growth area for industrial activities.
FUG-P6 Avoid activities that compromise the ability to comprehensively develop the growth areas for industrial activities, including: a) small lot rural/rural lifestyle subdivision; and b) residential subdivision and activities. General policies
FUG-P7 Require that activities be compatible with the growth planned for the area and/or the development capacity of the area having regard to the effects of the activity and: the impact on the existing and future activities and the ability to manage any conflict as the area transitions to an urban area; the purpose of the activity and whether the activity will provide for or support the needs of the intended future activities; the extent to which the activity will provide connected transport networks that allow ease of movement within and to and from the growth area; the ability to provide adequate, coordinated and integrated infrastructure to meet the immediate and future needs of the area; and the degree to which the activity is inconsistent with the structure plan.
FUG-P8 Require that a structure plan is in place prior to future urban growth occurring, which comprises the level of detail necessary to ensure that comprehensive, coordinated and efficient development occurs, and addresses the following: the type, location and density of the development to ensure it is suitable for the area;
Draft District Plan 23 Policies the topography and natural and physical constraints of the site, including natural hazards; the future servicing needs of the area and the provision of adequate, coordinated and integrated infrastructure to serve those needs; whether staging is appropriate to ensure development occurs logically and starts in the area closest to the existing urban boundary; the relationship of the growth area to be structure planned with the surrounding areas and the way any conflict is to be managed as the area transitions to an urban area; the provision of connected transport networks that allow ease of movement within, to and from the growth area; the provision and integration of accessible open space networks; incorporation of Te Aranga Principles where appropriate; the maintenance or enhancement of natural and historic heritage values; and opportunities for the provision of business and retail activities which are complementary to the planned growth and serve the new area’s needs.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Existing land-uses and small scale rural activities. • Activities in accordance with the relevant structure plan. Manage as a discretionary activity • Business and retail activities. • Subdivision. Control as a non-complying activity • Industrial activities. • Rural industry. • Small lot rural/rural lifestyle subdivision (1 ha or less).
24 New Plymouth District Council
Waterbodies Waterbodies including wetlands, rivers, lakes and their margins are an important part of the district and have important natural, biodiversity and cultural values. The District Plan will manage the activities that occur adjacent to waterbodies. Refer to the public access section that considers the recreational values associated with waterbodies.
The National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (2014) guides decision-making regarding the freshwater resources of New Zealand. In particular the Council must have regard to its policies in consent decision making.
The Council works with Taranaki Regional Council and tangata whenua to ensure waterbodies are managed in an integrated way.
Objectives
WB-O1 The values of waterbodies and their surroundings are protected and maintained.
WB-O2 Waterbodies are enhanced and restored.
WB-O3 Waterbodies provide a network of indigenous biodiversity.
Policies
WB-P1 Identify and schedule priority waterbodies with: high natural character values; biodiversity and ecological values; cultural values; and/or recreational values.
WB-P2 Protect the values of waterbodies by: managing activities on or along the margins of waterbodies which adversely impact on waterbody values;
Draft District Plan 25 Policies requiring the erection of structures, including buildings and roads, adjacent to waterbodies and/or waterbody margins to be set back an adequate distance to avoid adverse effects on those values; and controlling subdivision and earthworks.
WB-P3 Allow customary activities for tangata whenua to be undertaken within and adjacent to waterbodies.
WB-P4 Require that activities proposing to locate on or along a priority waterbody demonstrate the activity is located appropriately having regard to the effects of
the activity and: a) the particular natural character, ecological, cultural, amenity and/or recreational values of the waterbody and the impact on those values; b) the extent to which the values of the waterbody may be compromised by the activity; c) the purpose of the activity and whether it has a functional need to locate on or along a waterbody; and d) the ability to effectively restore and rehabilitate the waterbody and/or off-set adverse effects.
WB-P5 Require that any activity which proposes to off-set residual or unavoidable adverse effects on a waterbody demonstrate that the off-set is appropriate, having regard to: a) the waterbody values that will be impacted and whether there will be any permanent or irreplaceable loss of those values; b) whether the restoration and/or enhancement proposed is as close as possible to the subject site or within the same catchment; and c) whether the off-set will achieve a net gain in biodiversity of a type and number appropriate to the local context that can be sustained on an ongoing basis.
WB-P6 Promote community awareness of the importance of the values of waterbodies and the threats to them.
WB-P7 Provide information and technical advice relating to the protection and enhancement of the values of waterbodies in conjunction with relevant agencies.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Customary activities. Manage as a discretionary activity • New buildings and/or structures within the specified setback. • Earthworks in a setback from a priority waterbody. • Subdivision of land containing a priority waterbody.
26 New Plymouth District Council Indigenous Biodiversity Biodiversity is short for biological diversity. It describes the variety and diversity of all life and the ecosystems where they live. Indigenous biodiversity is biodiversity that is native to New Zealand and relates to individual birds, plants, insects and other species and also includes ecosystems where these species live such as forests and sand dunes.
The RMA requires the Council to manage indigenous biodiversity in two main ways. Firstly, the Council is required to maintain indigenous biodiversity as a whole in partnership with other agencies such as Taranaki Regional Council and Queen Elizabeth Trust II. When subdivision and development occurs there are opportunities to maintain and enhance biodiversity.
Secondly, the Council is required to identify and protect areas of significant indigenous vegetation and habitats of significant fauna. This is achieved by applying rules relating to the clearance of indigenous vegetation in significant natural areas. The main threats to indigenous biodiversity are from browsing farm animals, pests and weeds. The Council will continue to work with landowners and other biodiversity partners to encourage fencing and appropriate stock management.
Objectives
IB-O1 Significant areas of indigenous biodiversity are protected and maintained.
IB-O2 Indigenous biodiversity is maintained and enhanced and the threats to areas of biodiversity from pests and stock are managed.
IB-O3 There are ecological linkages between areas of indigenous biodiversity.
Policies
IB-P1 Identify areas of significant indigenous vegetation and habitats of indigenous fauna and schedule these areas as significant natural areas where:
There is an endemic species that is endangered, vulnerable, rare, regionally threatened, or of limited abundance throughout the country. There are areas of important habitat for nationally vulnerable or rare species, or an internationally uncommon species (breeding and/or migratory). There are ecosystems or examples of an original habitat type, sequence or mosaic which are nationally rare or uncommon, rare within the ecological region, uncommon elsewhere in that ecological district or region but contain all or almost all species typical of that habitat type (for that district or region, or not well represented in protected areas. Any particular species is exceptional in terms of abundance or habitat. The area provides buffering and connectivity.
IB-P2 Maintain and enhance indigenous biodiversity by: ensuring activities within or in proximity to areas of indigenous biodiversity do not compromise biodiversity values; recognising the benefits of active management of indigenous biodiversity, including pest and stock control and/or formal legal protection; and
Draft District Plan 27 Policies ensuring any biodiversity off-sets will achieve no net loss in indigenous biodiversity on an ongoing basis.
IB-P3 Protect, maintain and enhance significant natural areas by: preventing the destruction, degradation and/or clearance of indigenous vegetation in significant natural areas; ensuring the erection of structures and earthworks within or in proximity to areas of significant natural areas do not compromise the area’s biodiversity values; controlling subdivision of land with a significant natural area, but allowing for an additional allotment when a significant natural area is protected by a conservation covenant; requiring formal protection and active management of significant natural areas when a subdivision or the establishment of a new activity occurs on land with a significant natural area; and allowing for planting, fencing and maintenance of the area.
IB-P4 Only allow limited removal of indigenous vegetation in significant natural areas, when it is necessary to:
allow for farm maintenance and to provide for health and safety; enable the ongoing provision of essential infrastructure; provide for tikanga Mäori and allow for the collection for cultural purposes; provide for research opportunities and allow for collection for scientific purposes; or meet the requirements of a conservation covenant.
IB-P5 Require that any activity impacting on a significant natural area demonstrate that the activity is appropriate having regard to the effects of the activity and:
the particular biodiversity values and characteristics of the significant natural area and the impact on those values; the extent to which the biodiversity values may be compromised by the activity; the extent of clearance or removal of vegetation and the loss, damage or disruption to ecological processes, functions and ecological integrity; and the ability to mitigate and/or off-set adverse effects.
IB-P6 Require that any activity which proposes to off-set residual or unavoidable adverse effects on indigenous biodiversity demonstrate that the off-set is appropriate having
regard to: whether the off-set proposed is located as close as possible to the subject site; whether the extent of the off-set proposed is sufficient to adequately off-set the adverse effects; whether the extent of the off-set achieves a net gain in indigenous vegetation of a type and number appropriate to the local context;
28 New Plymouth District Council Policies whether a connection with another area of indigenous biodiversity is created; and the creation of formal legal protection for other areas of indigenous vegetation.
IB-P7 Encourage the enhancement and restoration of indigenous biodiversity by: providing funding and advice to landowners to actively manage indigenous biodiversity, including by way of fencing and planting; and creating connections and ecological corridors between areas of indigenous
biodiversity.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Existing land-uses, maintenance of infrastructure. • Activities that will enhance indigenous vegetation, e.g. planting and restoration. • Limited clearance based on exceptional circumstances. • Customary activities. Manage as a discretionary activity • Clearance of indigenous vegetation within a significant natural area.
Draft District Plan 29
Outstanding Natural Landscapes The RMA requires the Council to protect outstanding natural landscapes in the district. These are those landscapes that are outstanding due to a range of factors, e.g. topography, scientific matters, aesthetic and cultural values. An outstanding natural landscape must be natural. One of the district’s most iconic outstanding natural landscapes is Mount Taranaki. A number of other important landscapes are present in our coastal environment. The District Plan must avoid the adverse effects of activities on outstanding natural landscapes.
Objective ONL-O1 Outstanding landscapes and natural features that are important to the identity of the district are protected and retained.
Policies
ONL-P1 Recognise and schedule the following outstanding natural features and landscapes:
Mount Taranaki and the Kaitake and Pouakai Ranges; the coastal extent from Waihi Stream to Pariokaeiwa Point; Paritutu, Nga Motu/Sugar Loaf Islands and Tapuae; Hangatahua (Stony River); Parininihi; and Mimi Estuary.
ONL-P2 Protect and maintain outstanding natural landscapes by: avoiding inappropriate activities on or in proximity to outstanding natural landscapes which compromise the landscape values present; ensuring the erection of structures, earthworks and/or clearance of indigenous vegetation, on or in proximity to outstanding natural landscapes do not compromise the landscape values present; and controlling subdivision of land on or in proximity to outstanding natural landscapes.
ONL-P3 Allow activities within outstanding natural landscapes for conservation purposes, public access and customary activities.
ONL-P4 Require that activities locating on outstanding natural landscapes demonstrate that the activity is appropriate having regard to the effects of the activity and:
the particular landscape values and characteristics of the outstanding natural landscape and its impact on those values; the purpose of the activity and whether it has a functional need to locate on or in proximity to an outstanding natural landscape; the degree of modification to the existing outstanding natural landscape and its sensitivity or vulnerability to change; and the relationship of tangata whenua with outstanding natural landscapes.
30 New Plymouth District Council Policies
ONL-P5 Require that buildings, structures or earthworks locating on or in proximity to outstanding natural landscapes minimise any visual effects by: ensuring the scale, location and design of the building, structures or earthworks are appropriate in the location; integrating landform and context into the design and through the use of naturally occurring building platforms and sympathetic materials; limiting the prominence or visibility of built form, including by integrating with the outstanding natural landscapes; and restoring or rehabilitating earthworks.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Existing land uses, activities for a conservation purpose. Control as a non-complying activity • Buildings and development. • Removal of indigenous vegetation. • Earthworks.
Draft District Plan 31 Coastal Environment The District Plan must give effect to the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement (2010) that requires a strategic approach to managing development on the coast. The coastal overlay area recognises the extent and characteristics of the coastal environment with natural character that identifies where coastal processes, influences or qualities are significant. It also includes values that are important from a landscape, historic, cultural and ecological point of view. The area includes natural and modified landscapes and applies appropriate management approaches depending on these values. Refer to the public access section that considers the recreational values associated with waterbodies.
Objectives CE-O1 The coastal environment has natural character values that are recognised and protected.
CE-O2 Coastal natural character values are enhanced and restored.
Policies
CE-P1 Identify a coastal overlay area that recognises and provides for the extent of the coastal environment and different areas, elements or characteristics within it
including: areas with outstanding natural character and/or outstanding natural landscapes; elements and features that contribute to the natural character, landscape, visual qualities or amenity values; areas at risk from natural hazards; cultural and historic heritage areas or features; areas of coastal vegetation and habitat of indigenous coastal species; and/or the built environment and infrastructure which have modified the coastal environment.
CE-P2 Avoid the following activities in areas of outstanding natural character: the erection of structures, buildings and infrastructure; earthworks including excavation and filling; and subdivision.
CE-P3 Avoid significant adverse effects on natural character in the coastal overlay area by controlling:
urban expansion and the consolidation of existing urban coastal settlements; the scale, location, design and use of structures, buildings and infrastructure; earthworks; and subdivision.
32 New Plymouth District Council Policies
CE-P4 Avoid the removal, modification, disturbance or destruction of areas of coastal indigenous biodiversity including dunes, estuaries and wetlands.
CE-P5 Avoid activities that restrict access to the Waiwhakaiho surf break.
CE-P6 Allow activities which: have a functional need to be located in the coastal environment; or provide for papakainga, marae and associated development.
CE-P7 Require that activities proposing to locate within the coastal overlay area demonstrate that the activity is located appropriately having regard to the effects
of the activity, and: the particular natural character, ecological, historical, and/or recreational values of the area; the extent to which the values of the area are sensitive or vulnerable to change; opportunities to restore or rehabilitate the particular values of the coastal environment of the area; the presence of any natural hazards and whether the activity will exacerbate the hazard and/or be vulnerable to it; and opportunities for public access and recreation.
CE-P8 Require that activities which propose to locate within the coastal overlay area minimise any adverse effects by:
ensuring the scale, location and design of any built form or land modification is appropriate in the location; integrating natural processes, landform and topography into the design of the activity, including the use of naturally occurring building platforms; limiting the prominence or visibility of built form; and restoring or rehabilitating, including planting using local coastal plant communities.
CE-P9 Recognise and provide opportunities for tangata whenua to exercise kaitiakitanga in the coastal environment and consider the outcomes of consultation with mandated tangata whenua.
CE-P10 Encourage restoration and rehabilitation of natural character, indigenous vegetation and habitats, cultural landscape features, dunes and other natural
coastal features or processes.
Draft District Plan 33 Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Activities that will enhance the natural environment, e.g. dune planting and restoration. Manage as a discretionary activity • Earthworks, removal of vegetation and modification of dune areas. • Structures, buildings. • Subdivision of land. Control as a non-complying activity • Earthworks, structures and buildings in area of outstanding natural character. • Removal of indigenous coastal vegetation.
34 New Plymouth District Council Public Access The maintenance and enhancement of public access to the coast and waterbodies is recognised in the RMA as a matter of national importance. The New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement (2010) identifies a specific requirement to provide access to and along the coastal environment.
The community values access to the district’s coastal environment and also to our lakes and rivers. The Council has an important role in protecting access, as well as ensuring that the district’s shared pathway network connects open spaces and other public areas. The Council also has a strategic aspiration to develop a district-wide shared pathway network to and along the coast, including the Taranaki Traverse initiative. This network will provide opportunities for the community and visitors to experience the district’s unique natural and coastal environment and may create opportunities for recreational and tourism related activities.
Objectives
PA-O1 Public access is provided along the coast and along waterbodies.
PA-O2 The district’s shared pathway network is developed to provide access to the natural environment and recreational opportunities and enhance the district as a world class destination.
PA-O3 Access to the coast and waterbodies does not result in adverse effects on natural character values, historic heritage, indigenous biodiversity or landscapes.
Policies
PA-P1 Identify and schedule: public access corridors along priority waterbodies and the coast; and the shared pathway network, including the Taranaki Traverse.
PA-P2 Maintain and enhance public access by requiring subdivision or development to provide:
esplanade reserves and/or esplanade strips along waterbodies and the coast; and access strips and access links and designations if required to secure land for the shared pathway network.
PA-P3 Control the activities which can occur in or in proximity to public access corridors and the shared pathway network to ensure access and/or recreational and
tourism values are not compromised, including: the erection of structures, buildings and roads; earthworks, including excavation and filling; and subdivision.
Draft District Plan 35 Policies
PA-P4 Require alternative public access opportunities where public access corridors contain significant natural character values, including biodiversity, and/or historic heritage, if public access may compromise those values.
PA-P5 Require that any subdivision which proposes to reduce the width or remove an esplanade strip or reserve demonstrate that the removal or reduction is
appropriate, having regard to: the extent to which public access will be restricted; any alternative public access to the waterbody or the coast; opportunities to link land-locked or isolated esplanade strips or reserves or access strips; and the site’s physical characteristics and constraints and any practical implications to providing access.
PA-P6 Require that activities which propose to locate on or in proximity to public access corridors demonstrate whether the activity is appropriate, having regard to: the purpose of the activity and whether it is anticipated on a public access corridor and/or enhances public access and recreational and tourism values; the location, scale and design; and the setback distance of the activity from public access corridors.
Rule summary Requirement for an esplanade strip or reserve at the time of subdivision. Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Activities that will enhance the natural environment, e.g. planting and restoration. • Customary activities. Manage as a discretionary activity • New buildings or structures located within the specified setback. • Industries that have significant off-site effects. • Earthworks. • Subdivision of land.
36 New Plymouth District Council Natural Hazards
There are a wide range of existing and potential natural hazards in the district. These include flooding, river bank erosion, coastal erosion and inundation, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. When they occur natural hazards can result in damage to property, infrastructure and the environment. More significantly, they can lead to a loss of human life. Therefore it is important to recognise these hazards and manage activities to limit risk.
Objectives
NH-O1 The risks associated with natural hazards on people, property and the environment are recognised and managed.
NH-O2 Activities do not create new or exacerbate existing natural hazards.
NH-O3 Activities are designed and located to minimise the risk of damage from natural hazards.
NH-O4 Natural defences against natural hazards are protected and restored.
Policies
NH-P1 Identify areas where natural hazards are more likely to occur, including: along rivers and streams subject to flooding and stream bank erosion and in low lying areas that are prone to flooding; along the coast and river mouths where coastal erosion and inundation from sea level rise is likely; along identified fault lines and areas that are likely to be subject to liquefaction; and volcanic hazard areas.
NH-P2 Control the activities that can occur in natural hazard areas, including: the erection of structures including buildings and roads; earthworks, including excavation and fill; subdivision of land; and activities that involve the use and storage of hazardous substances.
NH-P3 Only allow new regionally significant infrastructure and critical infrastructure to locate in natural hazard areas where: there is a functional or operational need to locate there; and the risks to people, property and the environment are mitigated as far as practicable.
NH-P4 Require activities locating in natural hazard areas to ensure any risks on people, property and the environment will be minimised, having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the extent to which the activity will increase the risk of the hazard or the risk of damage to existing activities on the site or on adjacent sites;
Draft District Plan 37 Policies the impact on the functioning of any natural system; the permanency of the activity and whether any building or structure can be relocated; whether the activity will intensify the use of the area and/or the number of people that are likely to occupy the site and potentially be exposed to health and safety risks; whether any methods can and will be adopted to avoid or mitigate the effects of the hazard through building design and site design; and the ability to monitor the hazard on an ongoing basis.
NH-P5 Encourage the use, maintenance and enhancement of natural features and buffers to manage the risks of natural hazards on people, property and the environment.
Rule summary Manage as a discretionary activity • Erection of structures, clearance of vegetation and earthworks in natural hazard areas. • Erection of buildings and structures. Control as a non-complying activity
• Activities involving the use of hazardous substances.
38 New Plymouth District Council
Historic Heritage Historic heritage within the district includes heritage buildings and items, waahi taonga/sites of significance to Mäori and archaeological sites. Historic heritage represents continuity between past, present and future generations. It is important that historic heritage is protected from activities that will compromise heritage values.
Objectives
HH-O1 Historic heritage is recognised, protected and maintained.
HH-O2 Heritage buildings are actively used and maintained.
HH-O3 Historic heritage is appreciated by the community and is acknowledged as important to the district’s identity.
Policies HH-P1 Identify and schedule significant heritage buildings and items having regard to the following matters: historic and community values; architectural and design features; setting and context; cultural values; the rarity of the building or item; and/or archaeological values.
HH-P2 Identify and schedule known waahi taonga/sites of significance to Mäori and archaeological sites.
HH-P3 Protect and maintain historic heritage from inappropriate activities by: avoiding disturbance, destruction and/or removal of historic heritage; and requiring activities on, in or surrounding historic heritage to avoid adverse effects on cultural/heritage values.
Draft District Plan 39 Policies HH-P4 Allow the following activities provided they do not compromise historic heritage values: maintenance and repair; seismic strengthening of heritage buildings and items; and/or adaptive re-use of a heritage building.
HH-P5 Control activities that occur on or in proximity to historic heritage, including: additions and alterations; erection of structures; removal and repositioning; removal of vegetation and/or planting; disturbance and earthworks including excavation and filling; subdivision; and/or signage.
HH-P6 Require activities adjacent to or affecting historic heritage to minimise the impact on the historic heritage values, having regard to: the particular historic heritage values present and their setting; the reduction or loss of historic heritage values, including the ability to interpret the place and its relationship with other heritage features/items; the feature/item’s sensitivity to change or capacity to accommodate change without compromising the historic heritage values of the feature/item and surrounds; and any opportunities to enhance historic heritage.
HH-P7 Require activities adjacent to or affecting waahi taonga/sites of significance to Mäori and/or archaeological sites where they are scheduled or where there is a reasonable cause to suspect there is an archaeological site, to demonstrate the activity is appropriate having regard to: the outcomes of consultation with mandated tangata whenua; any assessments or advice from a suitably qualified and experienced archaeological expert; and the outcomes of consultation with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
HH-P8 Require that any activity which proposes additions and alterations to scheduled heritage buildings and items demonstrate the additions and alterations are appropriate having regard to: compatibility with the form, proportions, materials and patina of the existing building or item; minimisation of the loss of architectural features and details that contribute to the building or item’s heritage values;
40 New Plymouth District Council Policies treatment of the facade; and/or the impact on the historic heritage values and social values of the heritage building or item.
HH-P9 Only allow heritage items to be repositioned where it can be demonstrated it is appropriate to reposition the item having regard to: the feasibility of the relocation and the ability to retain the item’s values intact; the location of the reposition site and whether it is as close as possible to the subject site or within the same neighbourhood; any existing threats to the item from natural hazards; and opportunities to enhance the physical condition of the item and its heritage values and the public’s appreciation of those values.
HH-P10 Support landowners to manage, maintain and preserve historic heritage by using one or more of the following methods: obtaining, recording and sharing information about historic heritage; encouraging matauranga Mäori, tikanga and katiakitanga to manage and maintain waahi taonga; and/or providing assistance to landowners to maintain and restore historic heritage.
HH-P11 Ensure efficient processes by avoiding duplication with other statutory processes for land containing archaeological sites.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Heritage buildings and items: - Repair and maintenance of interiors and exteriors. - Internal alteration and addition to almost all buildings. • Waahi taonga and archaeological sites: - Maintenance, e.g. gardening. Manage as a discretionary activity • Heritage buildings and items: - Alteration and addition to exteriors. - Signage. - Subdivision. - Internal alteration of selected buildings. - Erection of buildings within 30m of selected buildings. - Repositioning of selected items. • Waahi taonga and archaeological sites: - Disturbance. - Subdivision. - Erection of buildings.
Draft District Plan 41 Control as a non-complying activity • Heritage buildings and items. - Demolition or removal. - Repositioning. • Waahi taonga and archaeological sites: • Destruction.
42 New Plymouth District Council Trees Trees play an important ecological, environmental and cultural role within the district. They can be prominent natural features and landmarks which add character and identity to different parts of the district, whereas others can be rare species or spectacular specimens or are associated with special sites or events. Particular focus is placed on trees within the central city. This area tends to be dominated by buildings, roads and parking areas. Trees help to soften this environment and enhance visual amenity. It is important that significant trees within our district, and particularly within our central city, are protected.
Objective
T-O1 Trees with significant botanical, landscape, amenity, historical or cultural value are recognised and protected.
Policies T-P1 Identify, schedule and categorise notable trees having regard to: appearance, health and vigour; historic and cultural values; botanical and rarity values; proximity to nearby services and structures and the ability to manage the tree on an ongoing basis; and/or if the tree is in a group, its contribution to ecological/climatic function and stand landscape value.
T-P2 Identify and schedule central city trees which are located in the central city area and contribute significantly to urban amenity values.
T-P3 Protect and enhance scheduled trees by: preventing their destruction, degradation and/or modification; ensuring activities on or in proximity to scheduled trees do not compromise the tree’s health or historical, cultural, botanical and/or amenity values; and requiring activities in the vicinity of scheduled trees to avoid adverse effects and where possible enhance scheduled trees.
T-P4 Allow trimming and maintenance of a scheduled tree provided it is undertaken by the Council or an approved arboricultural contractor and is necessary to: prevent a serious threat to property, people or services; enable the ongoing provision of essential infrastructure; and/or improve, maintain or monitor tree health.
T-P5 Control the activities which can occur on or in proximity to scheduled trees, including: modification, removal or destruction of a schedule tree; the erection of structures, buildings, roads and hard protection works; earthworks, including excavation and filling;
Draft District Plan 43 Policies outdoor storage of items; and/or subdivision of an allotment which contains a scheduled tree.
T-P6 Only allow the removal or destruction of a Category 1 notable tree when: it is necessary to prevent a serious threat to property, people or services; and/or it is to enable the ongoing provision of essential infrastructure.
T-P7 Require that any activity on or in proximity to a scheduled tree, or any activity involving the removal of a scheduled tree, demonstrate that the activity is appropriate having regard to: the particular values of the tree and its setting; the impact on the stature, form or shape, health and vigour, structural integrity and life expectancy of the tree from the activity; the reduction or loss of the values provided by the tree; whether the tree is causing a nuisance or renders a site incapable of reasonable use; any opportunities to minimise the reduction or loss of values provided by the tree, including by establishing replacement trees; and the outcomes of any assessment undertaken by an independent arborist.
T-P8 Provide information and advice on how to maintain scheduled trees.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Trimming of a scheduled tree that is undertaken by the Council or an approved arboricultural contractor. Manage as a discretionary activity • Erection of structures, buildings and earthworks within proximity to a scheduled tree. • Subdivision of an allotment that contains a scheduled tree. • Removal of a Category 2 or 3 tree. Control as a non-complying activity • Removal of a Category 1 tree.
44 New Plymouth District Council Viewshafts There are views within the district that are very distinctive and provide a strong sense of locality. Some are views of specific things whereas others are a series of views (panoramas). These views are enjoyed by many people on a daily basis from various public places. It is important that they are not obstructed by new buildings and structures.
Objective VS-O1 Views of Mount Taranaki, the sea, Nga Motu/Sugar Loaf Islands and important landmarks from public places provide a strong sense of place and identity and are recognised and maintained.
Policies VS-P1 Identify important urban viewshafts to Mount Taranaki, the sea, Nga Motu/Sugar Loaf Islands and landmarks from public places which provide urban coherence and amenity values.
VS-P2 Identify important viewshafts that have cultural significance to tangata whenua including views to and from tongi (markers) and marae, and views to waterways and river mouths, Mount Taranaki and the sea.
VS-P3 Maintain viewshafts by controlling the height of buildings and structures within viewshafts.
VS-P4 Require that any activity which proposes to erect a building or structure which will impact on a viewshaft demonstrate that the building or structure is appropriate in the location having regard to:
the particular elements of the view affected; the impact of the intrusion of the building or structure into the viewshaft and the ability to interpret the view; the reduction or loss of the amenity and cultural values; the viewshaft’s sensitivity to change or capacity to accommodate change; and any opportunities to enhance the viewshaft.
VS-P5 Support enhancement planting on Council land that is located within viewshafts to improve the overall amenity of viewshafts.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Maximum height of buildings and structures within sections of identified viewshafts.
Draft District Plan 45 Entrance Corridors The main roads leading to and from the urban areas of New Plymouth, Inglewood and Waitara and to and from the airport are important, frequently used corridors for the community and visitors to the district. It is considered desirable that they are more visually attractive and that they contribute to the district’s sense of identity. When subdivision or land use activities trigger resource consent along these roads it important that careful consideration be given to their design and landscaping.
Objective
EC-O1 The main roads leading to and from the urban areas of New Plymouth, Inglewood and Waitara and to and from the airport provide a welcoming, pleasant arrival experience.
Policies
EC-P1 Identify entrance corridors that define the main entrances along state highways into the central city, town centres and to and from the airport.
EC-P2 Control the form, scale and location of buildings and structures, signs and other activities establishing on sites adjacent to entrance corridors.
EC-P3 Allow activities which maintain and enhance the visual amenity of entrance corridors as follows: planting and landscaping; and the erection or use of public art works on sites adjacent to entrance corridors that are particularly visible to entrance corridor users.
EC-P4 Require activities establishing on sites adjacent to entrance corridors to minimise adverse effects on the entrance corridor having regard to the effects
of the activity, and: the form, scale and orientation of buildings and structures on the site; whether the buildings and structures complement and integrate with the surrounding topography and landscape; the placement of buildings and landscaping so as to enhance and maintain views, including those of the mountain, along entrance corridors; the extent to which planting and landscaping mitigates adverse effects on the visual amenity and the quality of the arrival experience along the entrance corridor; and/or the type, scale, location, design and direction of signage.
EC-P5 Support landowners of sites adjacent to entrance corridors with a low probability of redevelopment to carry out planting to ensure a cohesive planted edge by using one or more of the following methods: providing guidelines and technical advice for planting; maintenance and care of the land; and establishing covenants/agreements regarding planting.
46 New Plymouth District Council Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • The erection or use of public art works on-site. Effects: control with performance standards • Maximum building coverage and height. • Maximum length of a building side on a site. • Erection of buildings. • Erection of signs. • Landscaping of hard standing surfaces and parking. • Planting and landscaping in accordance with a design guide.
Draft District Plan 47 Character Areas Some areas of the district have unique characteristics that help to define them and create a sense of place. For example, houses may be built in a certain architectural style, allotments may be laid out in a particular pattern or distinctive trees may line the street. In order to ensure the character in certain areas is retained, it is necessary to manage the way in which development occurs.
Objective
CA-O1 Neighbourhoods or areas in the district that have special characteristics and features are not compromised by incompatible built form.
Policies
CA-P1 Identify character areas that have special streetscape qualities and settings, including built form and landscape features.
CA-P2 Allow activities that are located and designed in a manner that complement and respect the predominant special character of the area, including: the maintenance, restoration and enhancement of buildings and features which contribute to the special character of the area; residential flats that are a compact size and do not compromise the integrity of character areas located within the Residential Zone; the demolition of buildings and features that detract from the special character of the area; and the demolition or modification of parts of buildings which are not visible from public places, for instance the rear of buildings.
CA-P3 Manage activities that are potentially incompatible with the special character of the area, including:
alterations, additions and modifications to the primary elevation of buildings; the erection of new buildings; and the removal or demolition (including the removal or demolition of architectural features) of the primary elevation of any building that defines, contributes or supports the special character of the area.
CA-P4 Avoid subdivision that: will result in allotment patterns and/or sizes that are inconsistent or incompatible with historical subdivision patterns and allotment sizes that contribute to the character of an area; and/or undermines the integrity of low density built form or predominant character of the area.
CA-P5 Require activities to retain or enhance the places, features, qualities and attributes that contribute to, support or define the special character of the area
by: ensuring that the siting, design, scale and bulk of new built form is compatible and complementary to the area;
48 New Plymouth District Council ensuring that alterations, additions and modifications to the primary elevations of a building are: sympathetically designed; minimise the loss of fabric; use surface finishes that are complementary with the age, detailing and original finish; and recovers or reveals character values of buildings and features; ensuring the placement of accessory buildings/structures and garages in front yards does not compromise the streetscape; retaining natural character, landscape settings and mature, visually prominent trees wherever possible; retaining hard landscaping features such as river stone walls, fences and paths wherever possible; and/or ensuring signs are of an appropriate type, scale, design, location and direction.
Rule summary (in addition to meeting the Residential Zone rules) Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Residential flat, e.g. granny flat. • Alterations and additions to the rear of buildings. • Demolition to the rear of buildings. • Front yard fence height of 1m. Manage as a restricted discretionary activity • Alterations, additions and modifications to the primary elevation of buildings. • Total or partial demolition of buildings or removal of architectural features on the primary elevation of buildings. • Accessory buildings and structures (garages and car ports) in the front yard. Other • Introduction of a residential character area design guide to help assess developments that require resource consent. • New definition for residential flat. • New definition for primary elevation.
Draft District Plan 49
Subdivision Subdivision can impact on the natural and physical environment and has a strong influence in shaping the urban form and fabric of communities. It is important to ensure that subdivision is well designed and connected, responds positively to the environment and adopts sustainable low impact design methods. In conjunction with this it is important to ensure appropriate and sufficient infrastructure is provided and areas of open space are provided as part of subdivision where there is demand.
Objective
S-O1 Subdivision results in the efficient use of land and achieves patterns of development that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of each zone.
S-O2 Subdivision is designed to minimise any adverse effects on the environment and occurs in a sequenced and coherent manner that: responds positively to the site’s physical characteristics and constraints; provides connected transport networks that allow ease of movement within, to and from the subdivision for a variety of users; uses sustainable, low impact design methods and effectively manages stormwater; and maintains and enhances natural features and landforms, historic heritage and/or scheduled features.
S-O3 Subdivision provides adequate and efficient infrastructure to service the needs of the development and the costs to do so are met by applicants.
50 New Plymouth District Council Policies
S-P1 Avoid subdivision which: creates new or exacerbates existing natural hazards including erosion, slippage, subsidence, falling debris or flooding; results in adverse effects on the stability of land and buildings; and does not provide adequate infrastructure for the activity that is proposed or for subsequent use of the land.
S-P2 Ensure subdivision is appropriately located and designed to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects and to provide for:
the role, function and predominant character of each zone by controlling allotment sizes and densities; the maintenance of amenity values; stable, flood free building platforms with appropriate setbacks from boundaries; efficient, connected and integrated infrastructure; effective on-site stormwater management that incorporates low impact design principles; integrated connections with existing roads, access links, public transport routes and open space networks; sufficient public open space that is within walkable distance from residential allotments; power and telecommunication services; incorporation of Te Aranga Principles where appropriate; opportunities for future building solar gain, reduced energy and water consumption, and the use of renewable energy technologies; and setbacks from scheduled features and/or integration of scheduled features into the overall development.
Rule summary These objectives and policies do not have direct rules related to them but provide the basis for the underlying zones.
Draft District Plan 51 Earthworks Earthworks are an integral part of development as they create the areas of level land used for living, business and recreation purposes and are often essential to the construction of foundations and buildings. However, earthworks can have adverse effects on the environment if not appropriately managed. The earthworks provisions have been developed to ensure earthworks are managed appropriately to avoid, remedy or mitigate potential adverse effects.
Objective
EW-O1 Earthworks and associated retaining structures are designed and located to avoid or adequately remedy and mitigate adverse environmental effects.
Policies
EW-P1 Avoid earthworks and associated retaining structures which: create new or exacerbate existing natural hazards, particularly flood events, or cause adverse impacts on natural coastal processes; result in adverse effects on the stability of land and buildings; result in adverse effects on historic heritage and scheduled features; and/or do not provide adequate setbacks for natural features or reflect natural landforms.
EW-P2 Ensure that the design of earthworks and associated retaining structures is coordinated with future land development and/or subdivision.
EW-P3 Ensure earthworks and associated retaining structures are appropriately located and designed to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects by controlling:
maximum quantities for excavation and filling to maintain the role, function and predominant character of each zone; the location and design of infrastructure; setbacks from scheduled features; and the movement of dust and sediment beyond the area of development, particularly to wetlands, lakes, waterbodies and the coastal environment.
EW-P4 Ensure that earthworks and any associated structures are designed to reflect natural landforms, and where appropriate, landscaped to reduce and soften their visual impact having regard to the character and visual amenity of the surrounding area.
EW-P5 Require that earthworks be of a type, scale and design that is appropriate for the location having regard to the effects of the activity, and:
the impact on existing natural landforms and features; changes in natural landform that will lead to instability, erosion and scarring; impacts on natural drainage patterns and secondary flow paths; compatibility with the amenity and character of the surrounding area;
52 New Plymouth District Council Policies whether the design and materials for retaining structures are compatible with the visual amenity and character of the local area; and minimisation of any adverse visual effects associated with any exposed cut faces or retaining structures, including with screening or landscaping and/or planting.
Rule summary These objectives and policies do not have direct rules related to them but provide the basis for the underlying zones.
Draft District Plan 53 Traffic and Transport It is essential that driveways, right of ways and vehicle access points are designed appropriately to ensure the safety and efficiency of the transport network. In areas other than the city centre and local centre zones, the provision of on-site parking is important to avoid congestion on the road and a reduction in road width and visibility. Currently, the district has high rates of private vehicle usage. Provisions are included in the District Plan to encourage alternative forms of travel such as walking and cycling.
The District Plan seeks to ensure that activities generate a type or level of traffic that is compatible with the roads they are located on. Ideally heavy vehicles and activities that generate large numbers of vehicles should use roads that can accommodate significant weights and frequencies. This should assist with ongoing road maintenance and ensure that such activities establish in areas that can absorb these traffic effects.
The transport network is a physical resource of strategic importance so it needs to be safeguarded from activities that can adversely affect its operation. It is preferable that activities that are sensitive to noise do not locate next to state highways and railway corridors. This is not always possible so setbacks may be required if measures are not taken to reduce the noise.
Objectives
TT-O1 The transport network is safe and efficient and caters for a range of users and activities.
TT-O2 Activities generate a type or level of traffic that is compatible with the roads they are located on.
TT-O3 The transport network is protected from conflicting activities and reverse sensitivity effects.
Policies Safety and efficiency
TT-P1 Ensure the safe and efficient operation of the transport network by: managing activities located along roads so that they do not compromise current and future functionality; minimising conflict between vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists; and managing adverse cumulative effects.
TT-P2 Recognise that construction activities generate temporary traffic effects and ensure those effects are appropriately managed having regard to:
the types of vehicles serving the site, their intensity, the time of day/night the site is frequented and anticipated traffic generation; the duration of the traffic generation and the extent to which it creates adverse amenity effects and/or sleep disturbances for surrounding residential activities; the capacity of the site and adjoining roads to accommodate parking for workers associated with the construction work; and/or any adverse effects on the safety and efficiency of the transport network.
54 New Plymouth District Council Policies
TT-P3 Require that activities provide for the safe and efficient movement of vehicles on- site, onto and along the transport network by requiring:
the provision of appropriately designed and/or located vehicle access points, on-site parking including bicycle parking, loading and standing space, driveways, manoeuvring space and queuing space to reduce disruption to traffic flow, driver distraction and road congestion; that the location, orientation, design and illumination of signs avoids road or footpath user obstruction, distraction or confusion; that motorist sightlines at railway level crossings are not restricted by the establishment or siting of vegetation, buildings or other structures; and/or the provision of stock truck effluent receiving facilities to avoid or minimise spillage onto roads which can cause slippery surfaces and accelerated decay of surfaces.
TT-P4 Encourage buildings and new developments to: provide free, secure and covered parking for bicycles and end-of-trip facilities such as secure lockers, showers and changing facilities; and allocate parking for mobility devices, scooters, motorcycles, hybrid vehicles and car share or car pool vehicles and to provide charging points for electric vehicles.
TT-P5 Encourage large car parks to be designed to provide clearly marked, connected, convenient, safe, accessible pedestrian pathways, with provision for shelter
where possible.
Traffic generation
TT-P6 Manage the type and level of traffic using the transport network by: minimising heavy vehicles on low traffic volume roads; ensuring high traffic generating activities are located appropriately and not on low traffic volume roads and that they do not compromise the safety and efficiency of the transport network; and/or allowing high traffic generating activities to locate on arterial and collector roads provided adverse traffic effects are appropriately avoided, remedied or mitigated.
TT-P7 Ensure that heavy vehicles transporting freight with over dimension loads can pass safely along the heavy haul route by placing restrictions on how far signs can project over the road boundary.
TT-P8 Require that heavy service vehicles, extra heavy service vehicles, buses and/or high traffic generating activities proposing to use or locate on low volume traffic
roads demonstrate how adverse effects on the transport network will be avoided, remedied or mitigated having regard to: the road’s capacity and the likely effect of the proposed use on the road and its users; effects on the amenity values and character of the road;
Draft District Plan 55 Policies the effect on ongoing maintenance of the road and the need for road maintenance agreements; whether opportunities for alternative access and/or routes exist; traffic management and travel planning; whether it is appropriate to stage the activity and/or undertake improvements to the transport network; and cumulative effects.
Reverse sensitivity
TT-P9 Require sensitive activities to be set back from state highways and railway corridors unless they incorporate acoustic insulation measures which minimise
adverse noise and vibration effects on human health and well-being.
Rule summary Manage as a discretionary activity in each zone • Erection of structures within proximity to a railway level crossing sightline area. • Subdivision: increase in allotments being accessed by a right of way. • Sensitive activities locating in close proximity to state highways and railway corridors. Effects: control with performance standards • Erection of official signs, advertising signs, freestanding signs and footpath signs. • Vehicle access points: design standards, minimum distance. • Parking: number of spaces required and provision of for pedestrian movement within the car park. • Loading and standing spaces: number of spaces required, design, construction. • Driveways: design, construction. • On-site manoeuvring space: provision of, design. • On-site queuing space: provision of, design. • Landscaping of car parks. • Traffic generation. • Generation of stock truck effluent.
56 New Plymouth District Council Hazardous Substances A hazardous substance is any substance that is explosive, flammable, oxidising, corrosive or toxic to human health or the environment, or any substance which will exhibit these properties on contact with air or water.
The storage and use of hazardous substances are potential threats to the health and safety of the district’s people and natural environment, and pose a potential risk to the economic well-being of the district's people and businesses. Hazardous substances encompass those identified in the Hazardous Substances and New Organisms Act 1996 (HSNO) and may include substances such as industrial, agricultural, horticultural and household chemicals, medical wastes, petroleum products including LPG and lubricating oils, and radioactive substances. Given the potential risk to the health and safety of people, they must be managed to ensure they are stored and used in a safe and secure manner.
HSNO provides the general framework for controlling and managing the use and storage of hazardous substances but the following matters fall within the scope of the RMA: • effects on sensitive activities, the coast, historic heritage and scheduled features; • address reverse sensitivity issues; • the risk to public safety, e.g. risks to the general public beyond a site boundary and from natural hazards that could affect hazardous facilities; and • to manage cumulative effects of multiple facilities.
Objectives
HS-O1 The benefits associated with activities involving the use, storage, disposal and transportation of hazardous substances are recognised while ensuring that risks to the environment and human health are minimised to acceptable levels.
HS-O2 Existing hazardous substance activities are not compromised by reverse sensitivity effects and/or insufficiently setback sensitive activities.
Policies
HS-P1 Ensure hazardous substance activities have adequate separation from: sensitive activities, the coast, historic heritage and scheduled features; and waterbodies and sources of potable water.
HS-P2 Require that new hazardous substance activities demonstrate the activity is located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, the risks to the
health and safety of the community, and: the type, scale, duration, intensity or frequency of the activity’s effects; the design and site layout of the activity and its ability to internalise effects; effective management and disposal of wastes containing hazardous substances; any potential adverse cumulative or synergistic effects; and avoidance of risks associated with natural hazards.
Draft District Plan 57 Policies
HS-P3 Require new sensitive activities to be appropriately setback from existing hazardous substance activities to ensure conflict between activities and adverse
reserves sensitivity effects are minimised.
HS-P4 Ensure efficient processes by avoiding duplication with other statutory processes for hazardous substance activities.
Rule summary District-wide rules apply regarding setbacks between hazardous substance activities and sensitive activities, the coast, historic heritage and scheduled features.
58 New Plymouth District Council Contaminated Land Land can become contaminated when hazardous substances are not used, stored or disposed of in a safe way. People can be exposed to contaminated land by direct contact with contaminated soil, swallowing food or water from contaminated environments and breathing vapours or contaminated dust. As well as endangering health, these substances can limit the use of land, cause corrosion that may threaten building structures and reduce land value. Contaminated land is commonly associated with past activities such as the manufacture and use of pesticides, timber treatment and sheep dipping. It is important that sites in the district identified as being potentially contaminated are investigated further so people are not exposed to contaminants that may affect their health.
Objective
CL-O1 The risks to human health from contaminated land are avoided, remedied or mitigated.
Policies
CL-P1 Identify sites that are known to contain contaminated soil as a result of historical land uses and activities.
CL-P2 Ensure that contaminated land or potentially contaminated land is suitable for human use by requiring investigation, remediation or management where
necessary at the time of land use change, subdivision or re-development so as to minimise the risk of any contamination.
Rule summary No rules apply as resource consent is triggered through the Resource Management (National Environmental Standard for Assessing and Managing Contaminants in Soil to Protect Human Health) Regulations 2011.
Draft District Plan 59 Energy Non-renewable and renewable energy sources can be used to produce fuel and generate electricity. This district contributes significantly to the nation’s economy through the extraction of non-renewable energy sources such as oil and gas. The use and development of renewable energy also provides benefits to the district and can deliver clean, secure, affordable energy.
The types of renewable energy sources relevant to this district are solar, biomass, tidal, wave and ocean current, hydro and wind. It is important to recognise the benefits that energy related activities provide our communities while ensuring that their adverse effects are avoided, remedied or mitigated.
Objectives
E-O1 The significant local, regional and national benefits of the use and development of renewable or non-renewable energy resources are recognised and provided for.
E-O2 Energy activities are appropriately designed and located to minimise adverse effects on communities and the environment, including adverse cumulative effects from concurrent and consecutive energy activities.
Policies Oil and gas energy activities
E-P1 Allow prospecting activities to occur provided the activities are appropriately setback from sensitive activities, the coast, historic heritage and scheduled features.
E-P2 Require exploration and production activities to demonstrate they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity and: a) the location, design and site layout of the activity and its ability to internalise effects and/or minimise any effects external to the site; b) the scale, intensity, duration or frequency of the activity’s effects; c) adverse traffic generation, light overspill, and noise effects; d) minimisation of long-term visual effects through site selection, screening and landscaping; e) adequate separation from sensitive activities and features to ensure conflict between activities and adverse reverse sensitivity effects are minimised; f) appropriate use of the transport network and minimisation of heavy vehicles and high traffic volumes on local roads; and g) proximity to other noise and high traffic generation activities.
E-P3 Require exploration and production activities to minimise adverse cumulative effects associated with concurrent and consecutive oil and gas activities by: a) ensuring adequate setbacks from existing well sites to minimise compounding noise effects; b) requiring traffic management and travel plans that are regularly reviewed;
60 New Plymouth District Council Policies c) having regard to the duration of the activity, its hours of operation and the likely short-term and long-term effects on surrounding sensitive activities; d) seeking that adaptive management practices and industry best practices are adopted where possible to ensure efficient use of land and to reduce noise and traffic effects; and e) encouraging active engagement with surrounding communities to ensure the extent of cumulative effects are properly identified and options to avoid, remedy or mitigate those effects are identified.
E-P4 Require that above ground oil and gas activities are remediated once decommissioned or abandoned.
E-P5 Require new sensitive activities to be appropriately setback from existing exploration and production activities to ensure conflict between activities are minimised.
E-P6 Only allow oil and gas activities that generate unavoidable adverse effects because of natural resource based locational constraints where: there are no practicable alternatives to access the resource from a different location which would result in effects that could be avoided, remedied or mitigated; the adverse effects will be minimised to the greatest extent practicable, industry best practice and best practicable options are adopted; there is economic and social benefit to the community; and appropriate remediation and environmental offsets are provided.
E-P7 Avoid locating oil and gas energy activities within or in proximity to the coastal overlay area, historic heritage and scheduled features.
Renewable electricity generation activities
E-P8 Allow activities associated with the investigation, identification and assessment of potential sites and energy sources for renewable electricity generation by existing and prospective generators.
E-P9 Allow the ongoing operation, maintenance and upgrading of existing renewable electricity generation activities where the effects of these works are of the same or similar scale, intensity and character as the existing activity.
E-P10 Allow small-scale or community-scale renewable electricity generation activities while avoiding, remedying and mitigating their adverse effects on the environment.
E-P11 Control the location, size and height of structures, setbacks from sensitive activities, and storage of hazardous substances associated with renewable electricity generation activities.
E-P12 Require renewable electricity generation activities to demonstrate they are located appropriately to optimise the energy resource having regard to the effects of the activity, and:
Draft District Plan 61 Policies any locational, logistical or technical constraints to developing, upgrading, operating or maintaining the activity; the location of existing structures and infrastructure including, but not limited to, roads, navigation and telecommunication structures and facilities, and connections to distribution networks; the scale, intensity, duration or frequency of the activity’s effects; the design and site layout of the activity and its ability to internalise effects; earthworks and construction effects; adverse amenity, visual, traffic generation, safety, light overspill, shadow and noise effects; adequate separation from sensitive activities and features to ensure conflict between activities and adverse reserves sensitivity effects are minimised; and use of adaptive management measures.
E-P13 Require activities to avoid reverse sensitivity effects on consented and on existing renewable electricity generation activities to the extent reasonably practicable.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Prospecting.
Manage as a discretionary activity • Exploration and production. • Sensitive activities that are not set back from energy activities.
Control as a non-complying activity • Oil and gas activities that are not setback from sensitive activities, the coast, historic heritage and scheduled features.
62 New Plymouth District Council Network Utilities Network utilities are physical resources which provide water and electricity, telecommunications, radio communications, roads, railway lines, sewage reticulation, waste disposal and other similar services. These utilities enable communities to undertake everyday activities and functions, and allow people to provide for their social, cultural and economic well-being, health and safety. They are critical to the efficient and ongoing functioning of the district and therefore have wide ranging benefits. Utilities provide a service to the public and are typically provided by a network utility operator.
The establishment, operation, maintenance and upgrading of utilities is recognised because they provide essential services to the community, they often have a high capital cost to establish and they have a long life expectancy. Some utilities have specific locational needs that need to be accommodated. The co-location of utilities may achieve efficiency in design and operation, reduce capital investment costs and minimise amenity and environmental effects. The ability to co-locate compatible uses should be considered for all utility proposals.
While it is recognised utilities can have national, regional and local benefits, they can also have adverse effects on surrounding land uses and the environment and these need to be managed.
Objectives
NU-O1 Network utilities are able to operate efficiently and effectively, and the benefits they provide to the community are recognised.
NU-O2 Network utilities service the needs of existing and planned activities and enable the growth and development of the district.
NU-O3 Network utilities are appropriately designed and located to minimise adverse effects on communities.
NU-O4 Network utilities are not compromised by incompatible activities or adverse reverse sensitivity effects.
Policies
NU-P1 Identify and provide for: designations; local distribution networks; and national grid yards and national grid subdivision corridors.
NU-P2 Allow the operation, upgrading, maintenance and replacement of existing network utilities.
NU-P3 Manage the establishment of new network utilities which provide positive social, economic and environmental benefits to the community.
NU-P4 Avoid network utilities within the coastal overlay area and in proximity to historic heritage and scheduled features unless it can be demonstrated that: the utility is subject to a significant functional constraint; there is no feasible practicable alternative route; and
Draft District Plan 63 Policies the adverse effects are outweighed by the overall benefits of the proposal.
NU-P5 Avoid sensitive activities locating in areas which would restrict the operational requirements of network utilities.
NU-P6 Require that network utilities be located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the bulk, height, location and design of any associated buildings or structures; the extent of earthworks and remediation; the ability to co-locate services; and any adverse effects on outstanding natural landscapes, regionally significant landscapes, coastal overlay area, scheduled trees or historic heritage, or areas with significant cultural and recreational value.
NU-P7 Require that the adverse visual amenity effects of network utilities are minimised by:
co-location or multiple use of network utilities where this is efficient and practicable; removing redundant network utilities; using landscaping and/or recessive colours and finishes; encouraging innovative design to integrate utilities within the site, existing built form and/or landform and to maintain the character and amenity of the surrounding area; and/or requiring the undergrounding of services in new areas of development where technically feasible.
NU-P8 Manage any adverse effects of activities on the national grid, including substations, by ensuring that:
activities are set back from the national grid; sensitive activities and large-scale structures are restricted from establishing within the national grid yards and are appropriately managed around substations; subdivision is managed within the national grid subdivision corridors to avoid subsequent land use activities from restricting the operation, maintenance, upgrading and development of the national grid; and changes to existing activities within a national grid yard and around national grid substations do not further restrict the operation, maintenance, upgrading and development of the national grid.
NU-P9 Ensure that activities and subdivision provide for the coordinated establishment, use, upgrading and maintenance of network utilities.
64 New Plymouth District Council Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • The operation, upgrading, maintenance and replacement of existing network utilities. Effects: control with performance standards • Activities in airport flight path surface. • Erection of buildings and use of buildings for noise sensitive activities within the air noise control boundaries. • Noise generated by aircraft operations at New Plymouth Airport. • Erection of a communication facility; pipelines for the distribution or transmission of natural or manufactured gas, petroleum or geothermal energy; or of transformers, lines and necessary associated equipment for conveying electricity on or within a fault line. • Minimum setback between activities and high voltage transmission lines.
Draft District Plan 65 Signs Signs provide community, consumer and destination information and safety messages and controls. While signs are necessary, their scale, number, illumination, motion and placement are matters that need to be managed to ensure they are compatible with the local and wider environment in amenity, character and safety terms.
In the rural and open space zones signs can adversely affect the open, spacious character of these environments, whilst in the residential zones, residential character can be adversely impacted by overtly commercial, large or numerous signs.
In the commercially focused zones, e.g. city centre and local centre zones, and industrial zones, signs are more likely to be compatible with the activities occurring in these zones and contribute to vibrancy. However, competition for market prominence means advertising signs need to be controlled in terms of their size and location to manage effects on safety and amenity values and prevent the proliferation that would otherwise occur.
Public safety is important. Illuminated, animated and flashing signs are controlled to avoid conflict with traffic safety. Exposure to high volumes of passing traffic creates pressures to erect signs (especially third party signs) on highly visible sites, particularly those adjoining busy traffic routes such as state highways and other high traffic roads. Given this, the size, location and number of signs is limited to prevent visual clutter, preserve visual amenity and to avoid distractions to drivers.
Note: official signs are not intended to be controlled by the provisions of the District Plan. Signs on road reserve are managed by the roading or territorial authority.
Objectives
SI-O1 Signs are designed to be compatible with the role, function and predominant character of each zone.
SI-O2 Signs do not compromise visual amenity values, scheduled features and/or the safe and efficient operation of the transport network.
Policies
SI-P1 Allow signs which are compatible with the role, function and character of the zone they are located in, including: temporary signs; traffic control devices, directional and safety signs; interpretative signs to enhance the identification and understanding of natural, heritage and recreational values of public open spaces; and third party advertising in the city centre and local centre zones.
66 New Plymouth District Council Policies
SI-P2 Manage signs that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the zone in which they are located, including:
large-scale signs; signs located on scheduled features or adjacent to entrance corridors; and third party advertising in all zones (except for the city centre and local centre zones) and on stage highways and arterial routes.
SI-P3 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the zone in which signs are located by controlling:
the type, design, location and direction of signs; sign size and lettering size; illumination; projection of signs over road boundaries; and height of freestanding signs.
SI-P4 Require that signs be located appropriately and maintain character and visual amenity values by: ensuring the type, scale, design, location and direction of signs does not compromise the character and amenity of the area; ensuring signs do not detract from the appearance of buildings or cover important architectural features on buildings; minimising the cumulative and visual effects caused by sign proliferation; confining third-party advertising to appropriate locations; and ensuring illuminated, flashing or reflective signs do not adversely affect amenity values, particularly at night-time.
SI-P5 Ensure that signs do not compromise the safe and unobstructed use of any road by: ensuring the type, scale, design, location and direction of signs are appropriate having regard to the road type, speed environment and traffic volumes on the road; ensuring signs do not cause distraction or confusion for motorists; controlling sign proliferation, variable image signs, illumination, light overspill, flashing or reflection to reduce visual clutter and viewer confusion; confining third-party advertising to appropriate locations; and minimising any obstruction caused by signs projecting over the road boundary.
SI-P6 Encourage creativity and innovation in sign design, location and placement in the city centre and local centre zones to enhance vibrancy.
Draft District Plan 67
Rule Summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Temporary signs. • Traffic control devices, directional and site safety signs. • Third party advertising in the city centre and local centre zones. • Interpretative signage.
Control with performance standards • Number, type, size, location, direction and appearance of signs (tailored for each zone). • Erection of signs where clearly visible from a road. • Illumination. • Projection of signs over road boundaries. • Height of freestanding signs.
Manage as a discretionary activity • Large-scale signs. • Signs on entrance corridors and scheduled features. • Third party advertising in all zones (except for the City Centre Zone) and on state highways and arterial routes.
68 New Plymouth District Council Temporary Events
Some activities in the district are short-term in duration. Generally these are events that are held outdoors for no longer than three days and are musical, cultural, theatrical, recreational or sporting in nature. Often these events do not comply with the standards in the District Plan, e.g. they may generate noise or traffic movements that exceed normal levels. However, any inconvenience or nuisance that may arise from these events tends to be well tolerated by the community and the majority of neighbouring property owners and occupiers because they are short-term and they contribute to the social, economic and cultural well- being of the community.
The District Plan seeks to manage the adverse environmental effects in line with community expectations while ensuring that such events are able to be efficiently and effectively administered through the resource consent process. Where an event will not meet the permitted standards in the District Plan, event organisers are required to lodge a detailed resource consent application form to ensure their events are well planned and self-managed. The form has regard to all the likely adverse on-site and off-site effects associated with the full range of the Council’s regulatory health and safety obligations, including noise and traffic management, consumption of liquor, food hygiene and the provision of toilets. A good behaviour bond encourages event organisers to manage the adverse effects they have outlined.
Objectives
TE-O1 Temporary events enhance and contribute to community connectedness, a vibrant district and the social, environmental, economic and cultural well-being of communities.
TE-O2 Temporary events are planned, located and managed to minimise on-site and off-site adverse effects.
Policies
TE-P1 Allow temporary events provided their effects are appropriately managed.
TE-P2 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the zones by controlling the effects of temporary events including: the number of events that can occur on any one site in a calendar year; the duration of the event and hours of operation; the traffic effects by requiring a traffic management plan to ensure traffic generation, parking and signage effects are minimised; noise and light overspill on surrounding properties; the location and construction of structures and buildings; how the event will be serviced, e.g. toilets, first aid, potable water supply, fire safety and emergency egress, waste disposal, consumption of liquor and food hygiene; and provision of information about the event to adjoining and nearby neighbours.
Draft District Plan 69 Policies
TE-P3 Require temporary events that exceed the permitted noise levels in the relevant zone to demonstrate the event’s noise effects are appropriate having regard to: the existing ambient noise levels; the length of time that permitted noise levels will be exceeded (particularly at night); the maximum level of noise likely to be generated, its nature, character and frequency, and the disturbance this may cause to people in the vicinity; the extent to which the noise effects can be appropriately mitigated; the positive effects associated with the event; and the potential adverse effects on the amenity, health and safety of surrounding environment, including cumulative effects.
Rule Summary Allow as a controlled activity • Temporary events that comply with the permitted noise standards in the zone.
Manage as a discretionary activity • Temporary events that exceed the permitted noise standards in the zone.
70 New Plymouth District Council Noise and Light Overspill The generation of noise and light emissions are often an intrinsic part of the operation and function of the diverse range of activities and industries that operate in the district. It is important that these activities can generate a level of noise and light which is appropriate for their day to day operation.
However, noise and light are environmental effects that have the potential to cause annoyance and affect health, e.g. sleep disturbance. Noise is often identified as a nuisance and is a frequent cause of complaints, often related to reverse sensitivity. The nature and level of annoyance can depend on the frequency, intensity, duration, offensiveness and location and distance between the noise source and receiver. The characteristics of an individual and their expectations are another factor in determining the level of annoyance. The background noise level in different environments (rural, residential, business and industrial areas) influences the level of acceptability or annoyance to noise and these vary throughout the district.
Objectives
NLO-O1 Activities generate noise and light overspill effects that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of each zone.
NLO-O2 Activities do not generate noise and light overspill effects which compromise amenity values or adversely affect sensitive activities.
NLO-O3 New activities that are sensitive to noise and light overspill are designed and/or located to minimise conflict and reverse sensitivity effects.
Policies
NLO-P1 Maintain the predominant character and amenity of each zone by controlling the level of noise and light overspill that is permitted in each zone.
NLO-P2 Ensure any effects generated by an activity are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate for the activity’s location having regard to: the frequency, intensity, duration and offensiveness of the effect being generated; whether the level of effects are compatible with the character and amenity of the location and adjacent activities; internalisation of effects to the extent practicable and minimisation of conflict at site boundaries; any impact on the health and well-being of the surrounding community, including sleep disturbance; the adoption/implementation of best practicable options to minimise the adverse effects; and the ability to avoid conflict with existing sensitive activities.
NLO-P3 Require noise sensitive activities proposing to locate in close proximity to the Major Facility Zone and/or industrial zones to be designed, constructed and operated in a way which will ensure adverse noise and health and safety effects are minimised having regard to:
Draft District Plan 71 the primary purpose and the anticipated frequency of use of the noise sensitive building; the location of noise sensitive buildings in relation to a major facility activity or industrial activity and the level of noise that will be received within any noise sensitive building; the ability to design and construct noise sensitive buildings with sound insulation and/or other mitigation measures to ensure the level of noise received within the building is minimised, particularly at night to minimise sleep disturbance; and the likelihood of unreasonable and/or objectionable noise being received in any areas of private outdoor space and the ability to mitigate this effect with screening, separation or topography.
Rule summary Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Noise and light overspill that complies with specified standards in each zone.
Manage as a discretionary activity • Noise and light overspill that does not comply with specified standards in each zone.
72 New Plymouth District Council
Centres and Commercial Zones • City Centre Zone • Local Centre Zone • Commercial Service Zone • Large Format Retail Zone
Industrial Zones • Light Industry Zone • Heavy Industry Zone
Living Zones • Residential Zone • Medium Density Residential Zone
Open Space Zones • Sport and Recreation Zone • Neighbourhood Zone • Natural Open Space Zone
Mäori Purpose Zone • Marae and papakainga housing
Rural Zones • Rural Production Zone • Rural Lifestyle Zone
Major Facility Zone • Facilities that are nationally or regionally significant
Draft District Plan 73
1.1 City Centre Zone The New Plymouth central city is the principal centre and sits at the top of the district’s centres hierarchy. There are two defined areas within the City Centre Zone: inner area and outer area. Appendix two shows a map of the draft central city zone boundaries.
City Centre Zone: Inner Area The inner area is located in the heart of the central city. It is a vibrant place with a wide range of activities serving the district and the Taranaki region. This area contains many tourist attractions, landmarks and historic features and is supported by a strong hospitality and entertainment sector. It is adjacent to the well-utilised Coastal Walkway.
The primary emphasis is on the provision of boutique/small-scale retail activities at ground level with complementary retail chains. The inner area is pedestrian-focused with most buildings having verandahs and retail display windows. Buildings are generally four to five storeys high with active frontages and have a mix of uses, such as shops or restaurants on the ground floor and offices and residences on the upper floors. Generally buildings are located up to the street and there is no parking provided on the site.
Residential living on upper floors within the inner area is encouraged to help accommodate the district’s predicted population growth. Activities that are potentially in conflict with each other will be managed to ensure the amenity of this area is maintained.
Ideally, high-quality urban design will be provided by both the private and public sector in terms of building appearance, well maintained and connected footpaths, and public and open spaces.
City Centre Zone: Outer Area The outer area is located on the western and eastern sides of the inner area. It currently contains some sites that are not being used as intensively as they could be. This area provides an opportunity for positive rejuvenation and change.
It is envisaged that various types of sustainably designed medium density residential housing will become the major feature. This may result in buildings with three or four storeys. The provision of residential living in the inner area and the outer area will help to accommodate the district’s anticipated population growth and provide people with housing options that are alternatives to the traditional three bedroom suburban house.
74 New Plymouth District Council A mix of activities is encouraged. Retail activities could range from local shops through to complementary retail chains. Business service activities could range from small-scale innovative start-up businesses that bring a distinctive, creative edge through to large corporate organisations.
There is no defined pedestrian frontage requirement in the outer area meaning there is more flexibility in terms of building design compared to the inner area. However, it is important that building design is of a high quality to encourage people to live in this area. Currently this area is characterised by large blocks and large lots so there will be a focus on ensuring there are adequate pedestrian connections.
The outer area will support the inner area by providing a focus for living that enables residents to easily walk and cycle into the heart of the central city for shopping, work, entertainment and community activities.
Transformation of the outer area will happen over time. In the meantime existing uses can continue.
Objectives
CCZ-O1 The city centre is compact and is the principal centre in the district and the Taranaki region.
CCZ-O2 The city centre is a vibrant and dynamic place that supports a wide range of activities.
CCZ-O3 There is an increase in the number of people living in the city centre.
CCZ-O4 The buildings in the city centre are well designed and contribute positively to the streetscape.
CCZ-O5 The city centre is an attractive and safe environment for people to work, live and visit.
CCZ-O6 The city centre’s historic and cultural heritage is maintained and enhanced and contributes to a unique sense of place.
Policies Activities
CCZ-P1 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the City Centre Zone, including: business and retail activities; living activities; sport and recreation activities; visitor accommodation; education activities; and community activities.
Draft District Plan 75 Policies
CCZ-P2 Manage commercial service activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the City Centre Zone.
CCZ-P3 Avoid activities that are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the City Centre Zone, including: industrial activities; hazardous facilities; and rural and rural industry activities.
CCZ-P4 Enable living activities in buildings of a quality and design that: incorporate adequate sound attenuation to ensure noise levels within the building is reduced to appropriate levels; provide a reasonable level of daylight/sunlight access and privacy; and provide adequate storage space and utility and/or refuse areas.
CCZ-P5 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the City Centre Zone if they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity and: the purpose of the activity and whether it undermines the city centre; the scale and design of the activity and its compatibility with the character and amenity of the surrounding area; and the ability to provide adequate infrastructure to service the activity’s needs.
CCZ-P6 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the City Centre Zone where the activity will: undermine the role, function and predominant character of the zone; constrain the establishment and use of land for activities that are permitted in the City Centre Zone; and/or result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or lead to conflict.
Effects
CCZ-P7 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the inner area by controlling the effects of: inactive frontages; and total or partial demolition of buildings.
CCZ-P8 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the inner area and outer area by controlling the effects of: the erection of new buildings; major construction, alterations and additions to the exteriors of buildings; building/structure height; noise and light; and signage.
76 New Plymouth District Council Policies
CCZ-P9 Require activities in the inner area to maintain an attractive and active frontage and to contribute to a vibrant retail area by: ensuring pedestrians can move safely and efficiently along the street and within public places; providing a verandah and/or other forms of shelter for pedestrians; providing adequate clear glazing so that goods and services are visible to create engaging, retail focused spaces; having an interesting and engaging frontage with variations in form, materials and colour; and not compromising historic heritage.
CCZ-P10 Ensure that the total or partial demolition of buildings in the inner area do not result in vacant land and/or inactive frontages, unless: the demolition is necessary to prevent serious threat to property, people or services; and streetscape amenity will be maintained by providing opportunities for social interaction and/or vegetation and landscaping on the land until a replacement building is constructed.
CCZ-P11 Require new buildings and/or major additions and alterations to the exterior of existing buildings to be compatible with the character and amenity of the relevant area by: providing for retail activities on the ground floor and mixed uses on the upper floors in the inner area; ensuring an attractive and active frontage with variations in form, materials and colour; providing clearly visible and accessible entranceways and connections to pedestrian networks, including safe and practicable access for people with limited mobility; incorporating Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles, including the use of lighting to improve safety and to contribute to public amenity; ensuring utilities and service areas are not visible from public areas and are screened or incorporated into the overall building form; using sustainable design methods, where possible, to minimise the use of energy and water resources and to create healthy living and working environments; incorporating Te Aranga Principles where appropriate; where the building adjoins a public place, ensuring the building: i) maximises opportunities for the public to use and access that place; ii) maintains and enhances the central city’s historic and cultural heritage; iii) contributes to the central city’s identity, including through the incorporation of art works and/or unique and recognisable features; and
Draft District Plan 77 Policies iv) minimises any adverse shading effects on the public place; and where the building adjoins and/or extends over the Huatoki Stream, minimising its impact on the openness, historical and cultural values of the stream.
CCZ-P12 Require buildings proposing to exceed permitted height limits to ensure the building and/or the effects of the additional height are appropriate having regard to: the prominence of the site’s location, the extent of the building’s visibility to the public and its compatibility with the character and amenity of the area; the overall form, composition and design of the building and the ability to minimise visual effects by breaking up dominant and/or monotonous facades; the proximity of the building to the coastal environment and its impact on any coastal values present; the site’s size, topography and the orientation of the building on the site and whether the building will result in adverse shading effects; and where the building is located on an identified corner site, whether the building acts as a visual landmark and adds interest to, and enhances, the overall streetscape.
CCZ-P13 Require that activities ensure any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate for the City Centre Zone and that will maintain central city amenity by: ensuring adequate access to daylight; managing noise and light emissions to an acceptable, reasonable level; and controlling the size, design and type of signage.
Subdivision
CCZ-P14 Ensure subdivision results in the efficient use of land and is compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the City Centre Zone, and achieves:
patterns of development that are typical of the city centre; and minimises a proliferation of vehicle crossings that could affect the ability of pedestrians to move safely and efficiently along the street and within public places and/or reduces the presence of retail activity at the ground floor; opportunities for increased connectivity which allows for ease of movement within the city centre.
78 New Plymouth District Council Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Business and retail activities. • Living activities. • Residential activities at street interface (outer area only). • Visitor accommodation. • Sport and recreation activities. • Education activities. • Community activities.
Manage as a discretionary activity • Commercial service activities. • Residential activities at street interface (inner area only).
Control as a non-complying activity • Industrial activities. • Hazardous facilities. • Rural and rural industry activities.
Effects: control with performance standards • Defined pedestrian frontage (verandah and glazing) (inner area only). • Total or partial demolition of buildings (inner area only). • Erection of buildings on sites adjacent to Huatoki Stream (inner area only). • The erection of new buildings. • Major construction, alterations and additions to the exteriors of buildings. • Maximum height. • Daylighting requirement from the road boundary with Devon Street for sites adjoining Devon Street. • Maximum noise levels. • Maximum level of light overspill. • Signs.
Draft District Plan 79 1.2 Local Centre Zone This zone assists to maintain the district’s centres hierarchy and covers all centres in the district other than the New Plymouth city centre, including the following: • towns, e.g. Inglewood and Waitara; • suburban shopping centres, e.g. Moturoa, Fitzroy and Bell Block, and sites that have transitioned over time from industrial to business uses, e.g. Spotswood Countdown and Vogeltown Countdown; and • neighbourhood shops and rural service centres, e.g. Mill Road shops, Coronation Avenue shops, Okato and Urenui. Most local centres in the district are pedestrian orientated. Generally, premises are located up to the street and there is no parking provided on the site. Parking is usually available on the street and some centres have designated parking areas. Buildings tend to be one or two storeys high with verandahs and retail display windows.
Inglewood and Waitara are the largest local centres in the district each containing 30 to 40 shops, including supermarkets (or superettes), banks and general retail. Smaller local centres can, in some cases, only contain a handful of shops which tend to be convenience- based such as dairies and takeaway shops serving the local neighbourhood.
Residential living currently occurs in some centres. These are likely to be shop owners living at the rear of their businesses. Opportunities exist within some centres for residential intensification to accommodate some of the district’s projected population growth. This is likely to be provided above the ground floor to promote mixed use outcomes. This may result in some buildings with two or three storeys.
Because the specific character of individual centres differ, it might not be appropriate for some activities to establish in some centres. Particular consideration will be given to the scale of any proposed activities and whether they are compatible with the existing character and local amenity values. For example, large-scale activities are more likely to be appropriate in Inglewood and Waitara, whereas small-scale activities are more likely to be appropriate in those neighbourhood centres immediately surrounded by residential living. It is important to manage the interface where the Local Centre Zone adjoins the Residential Zone or the Medium Density Residential Zone.
Objectives
LCZ-O1 A variety of activities provide for local retail/convenience needs in the district’s centres.
LCZ-O2 Local centres are attractive and safe environments for people to work, live and visit with a unique sense of place.
LCZ-O3 Buildings in local centres contribute positively to vibrant retail areas and streetscape amenity.
LCZ-O4 The role, function and predominant characteristics of local centres are not compromised by activities of an incompatible scale.
LCZ-O5 The adverse environmental effects generated by activities are managed, particularly at residential zone interfaces.
80 New Plymouth District Council Policies Activities
LCZ-P1 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Local Centre Zone, including: business and retail activities (except large format retail and integrated retail activities); large format retail and integrated retail activities in Inglewood and Waitara; living activities; sport and recreation activities; education activities; visitor accommodation; and community activities.
LCZ-P2 Manage activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Local Centre Zone, including: commercial service activities; and large format retail and integrated retail activities (except in Inglewood and Waitara).
LCZ-P3 Avoid activities that are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Local Centre Zone, including: industrial activities; hazardous facilities; and rural and rural industry activities.
LCZ-P4 Enable residential activities in buildings of a quality and design that: incorporate adequate sound attenuation to ensure noise levels within the building are reduced to appropriate levels for residents; provide residents with a reasonable level of daylight/sunlight access and privacy; and provide adequate storage space and utility and/or refuse areas.
LCZ-P5 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Local Centre Zone if they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the purpose of the activity and whether it undermines the city centre or a local centre; the scale of the activity and its compatibility with the character and amenity of the surrounding area; and the ability to provide adequate infrastructure to service the activity’s needs.
Draft District Plan 81 Policies
LCZ-P6 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the Local Centre Zone where the activity will: undermine the role, function and predominant character of the zone; limit or constrain the establishment and use of land for activities that are permitted in the zone; and/or result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or will lead to conflict.
Effects
LCZ-P7 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the Local Centre Zone by controlling the effects of: inactive frontages; building/structure height; noise and light; signage; and boundary treatments at residential zone interfaces.
LCZ-P8 Require activities to maintain an attractive and active frontage and to contribute to vibrant retail areas by: ensuring pedestrians can move safely and efficiently along the street and within public places; providing a verandah or other forms of shelter for pedestrians, where possible; providing adequate clear glazing so that goods and services are visible to create engaging spaces; having an interesting and engaging frontage with variations in form, materials and colour; and not compromising historic heritage.
LCZ-P9 Require buildings proposing to exceed permitted height limits to ensure the building and/or the effects of the additional height are appropriate, having regard to: its compatibility with the character and amenity of the area and the prominence of its location; the overall form, composition and design of the building and the ability to minimise adverse visual effects by breaking up dominant and/or monotonous facades; and the site size, topography and the orientation of the building on the site and whether the building will result in adverse shading effects.
82 New Plymouth District Council Policies
LCZ-P10 Require that activities ensure any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate for the Local Centre Zone and will maintain the amenity of local centres by: managing noise and light emissions to an acceptable level; and controlling the size, design and type of signage.
LCZ-P11 Require activities located on a site adjacent to the Residential Zone or the Medium Density Residential Zone to maintain the residential amenity of adjoining residential sites by: ensuring buildings are of a bulk, height and form that minimises adverse dominance and/or enclosure effects on adjoining residential activities; achieving adequate separation distances and/or setbacks to minimise adverse daylighting and shading effects; managing adverse noise and light overspill; providing screening and landscaping to minimise adverse visual effects; and adequately mitigating conflict with existing residential activities.
Subdivision
LCZ-P12 Ensure subdivision results in the efficient use of land and is compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Local Centre Zone, and achieves: patterns of development that are typical of the local centres; and minimises a proliferation of vehicle crossings that could affect the ability of pedestrians to move safely and efficiently along the street and within public places; opportunities for increased connectivity which allows for ease of movement within the local centre.
Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Business and retail activities (except large format retail and integrated retail activities). • Large format retail and integrated retail activities in Inglewood and Waitara. • Living activities. • Sport and recreation activities. • Education activities. • Visitor accommodation. • Community activities.
Draft District Plan 83 Manage as a discretionary activity • Commercial service activities. • Large format retail and integrated retail activities (except in Inglewood and Waitara).
Control as a non-complying activity • Industrial activities. • Hazardous facilities. • Rural and rural industry activities.
Effects: control with performance standards • Defined pedestrian frontage (verandah and glazing). • Maximum height. • Maximum noise levels. • Maximum level of light overspill. • Signs.
84 New Plymouth District Council 1.3 Commercial Service Zone This zone is primarily located in New Plymouth covering a large part of the one-way system on land that wraps around the City Centre Zone. It is also located in parts of Inglewood, Waitara, small areas of New Plymouth and the Waiwhakaiho Valley.
Land within the zone was once used for residential or industrial purposes, but given its strong connection to transportation links and exposure to customers, over time it has transitioned to predominantly consist of commercially focused premises. Typical stores in this zone include trade suppliers, light industrial and manufacturing/engineering services, and motor vehicle and machinery sales, servicing and repair. Drive through restaurants, supermarkets and service stations are also present. A small amount of residential activities still remain in the zone.
This zone is generally characterised by larger scale, bulky buildings (such as warehouses and wholesale shops) orientated towards the motorised customer, with parking usually provided on-site. Some of these buildings are set back from the road with car parking provided in front of the building while others are positioned up to the street with parking areas provided at the side or the rear of the building. Generally no verandahs are provided.
This zone provides for commercial service activities that may not be appropriate for, or are unable to locate, in the city centre and local centre zones. This may be because of the effects they generate, such as noise, smoke, smell, trade waste, vibration, dust, glare and traffic, or because it is not possible to establish in centres due to the unavailability of sites large enough to accommodate store footprint requirements.
Objectives
CSZ-O1 Commercial service activities are the predominant activity in the Commercial Service Zone.
CSZ-O2 The number of business and retail activities are limited to ensure the viability and vibrancy of the city centre and local centres is not compromised.
CSZ-O3 Commercial service areas provide safe and functional working environments with a reasonable level of amenity.
CSZ-O4 Commercial service activities do not generate inappropriate effects, particularly at zone boundaries.
Policies Activities
CSZ-P1 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Commercial Service Zone, including: commercial service activities; supermarkets; community activities; sport and recreation activities; and ancillary activities.
Draft District Plan 85 Policies
CSZ-P2 Manage activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Commercial Service Zone, including: living activities; education activities; visitor accommodation; and industrial activities.
CSZ-P3 Avoid business and retail activities (except supermarkets) that are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Commercial Service Zone.
CSZ-P4 Require sensitive activities to be located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the potential for the activity to limit or constrain the efficient and effective operation of commercial service activities and generate reverse sensitivity effects; and whether adequate sound attenuation is provided to ensure noise levels within sensitive activities are reduced to appropriate levels.
CSZ-P5 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Commercial Service Zone if they are located appropriately having regard to their effects, and: the scale, design and layout of the activity and its compatibility with the character and amenity of the surrounding area; the ability to provide adequate infrastructure to service the activity; and the ability to minimise reverse sensitivity effects and/or any conflict with existing activities.
CSZ-P6 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the Commercial Service Zone where the activity will: undermine the role, function and/or viability of the city centre and local centres and/or is better located in another zone; and limit or constrain the establishment and use of land for commercial service activities. Effects
CSZ-P7 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the Commercial Service Zone by controlling the effects of: building/structure bulk, height and location; noise and light; traffic and parking; signage; hard surfacing, outdoor storage; and boundary treatments at residential zone interfaces.
86 New Plymouth District Council Policies
CSZ-P8 Require activities to maintain a reasonable level of on-site amenity and/or enhance streetscape amenity by: ensuring buildings are of a height and scale that is compatible with the role, function and character of the zone; minimising hard surfacing to mitigate stormwater and visual impacts; softening the appearance of outdoor storage with landscaping and screening; controlling the size, design and type of signage; and retaining existing trees, vegetation and established landscaping.
CSZ-P9 Require activities located adjacent to the Residential Zone or the Medium Density Residential Zone to maintain the residential amenity of adjoining residential sites by: requiring buildings to be of a bulk, height and form that minimises adverse dominance and/or enclosure effects on adjoining residential activities; achieving adequate separation distances and/or setbacks to ensure adverse daylighting and shading effects are minimsed; managing adverse noise and light overspill; providing screening and landscaping to minimise adverse visual effects; and adequately mitigating conflict with sensitive activities.
Subdivision
CSZ-P10 Ensure subdivision results in the efficient use of land and is compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Commercial Service Zone and achieves: patterns of development and lot sizes that are sufficient to accommodate commercial service activities; where the subdivision adjoins living zones, the incorporation of sufficient setback areas at zone interfaces that are planted and/or landscaped prior to the use commencing.
Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Commercial service activities. • Supermarkets. • Community activities. • Sport and recreation activities. • Ancillary activities.
Draft District Plan 87 Manage as a discretionary activity • Living activities. • Industrial activities. • Education activities.
Control as a non-complying activity • Business and retail activities, except where they are ancillary activities.
Effects: control with performance standards • Maximum height. • Setbacks from residential boundaries. • Maximum noise levels. • Maximum level of light overspill. • Traffic and parking. • Landscaping of road boundaries. • Screening of outdoor storage. • Signs.
88 New Plymouth District Council 1.4 Large Format Retail Zone This zone is located north of the central city in the Waiwhakaiho Valley. It is located where Smart Road intersects with Devon Road (State Highway 3) on the north eastern side of the intersection.
This zone caters for retailers selling items of a bulky nature that require a large area for handling, display or storage of goods, and/or direct vehicle access to the site of the premises by customers for the purpose of loading goods into a vehicle after purchase or hire. Retailers tend to provide adequate parking facilities for customers.
The Large Format Retail Zone generally includes retailers from the home, building and trade sectors. Goods likely to be for sale include furniture, bedding, furnishings, homewares and household appliances, plus hardware, building and garden supplies.
The establishment of retail activities in this location on industrial-zoned land was not envisaged under the previous effects-based District Plan. This zone has been created to reflect the nature of the activities that exist in the area now. No other Large Format Retail Zones in the district are envisaged because they have the potential to compromise the economic vitality and vibrancy of the central city.
Objectives
LFRZ-O1 Large format retail activities are the predominant activity in the Large Format Retail Zone.
LFRZ-O2 The role, function and predominant character of the Large Format Retail Zone is not compromised by incompatible activities.
Policies Activities
LFRZ-P1 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Large Format Retail Zone, including: large format retail activities; and ancillary activities.
LFRZ-P2 Manage activities that are potentially compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Large Format Retail Zone, including: supermarkets; sport and recreation activities; and commercial service activities.
LFRZ-P3 Avoid activities that are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Large Format Retail Zone, including: business and retail activities (except large format retail activities); integrated retail activities; living activities; visitor accommodation;
Draft District Plan 89 Policies education activities; community activities; and industrial activities.
LFRZ-P4 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Large Format Retail Zone if they are located appropriately having regard to their effects, and: the purpose of the activity and whether it undermines the role and function and/or viability of the city centre and local centres; the scale, design and layout of the activity and its compatibility with the character and amenity of the surrounding area; and the ability to provide adequate infrastructure to service the activity’s needs.
LFRZ-P5 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the Large Format Retail Zone where the activity will: undermine the role, function and/or viability of the city centre and local centres and/or is better located in a centres zone; and limit or constrain the establishment and use of land for large format retail activities.
Effects
LFRZ-P6 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the Large Format Retail Zone by controlling the effects of: building/structure bulk, height and location; noise and light; traffic and parking; hard surfacing; and signage.
LFRZ-P7 Require that activities ensure any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate for the Large Format Retail Zone by: ensuring built form is of a scale that is compatible with the role and function of the zone; managing noise and light emissions to an acceptable level; ensuring the safe and efficient use of the transport network by requiring appropriate traffic volumes and sufficient on-site parking, with safe and accessible pedestrian pathways where possible; softening the appearance of hard surfacing with landscaping; and controlling the size, design and type of signage.
90 New Plymouth District Council Policies Subdivision
LFRZ-P8 Ensure subdivision results in the efficient use of land and is compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Large Format Retail Zone and minimises: fragmentation of land and/or creation of small allotments which would limit or constrain the ability to use land for large format retail activities; and patterns of development that are more typical of the city centre and local centres.
Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Large format retail activities. • Ancillary office activities.
Manage as a full discretionary activity • Supermarkets. • Sport and recreation activities. • Commercial service activities.
Control as a non-complying activity • Business and retail activities that are less than 450m2 in gross floor area. • Integrated retail activities. • Living activities. • Education activities. • Community activities. • Industrial activities.
Effects: control with performance standards • Minimum gross floor area for retail activities. • Maximum height. • Landscaping of road boundaries. • Maximum noise levels. • Maximum level of light overspill. • Traffic and parking. • Signs. • Subdivision.
Draft District Plan 91
2.1 Light and Heavy Industry Zones The industrial zones in the district cater for a wide variety of businesses and land uses and subsequently result in a mix of effects on the environment. These effects are proportionate to the type and scale of the operations and proximity to other zones. The Blueprint process confirmed there are sufficient areas of land zoned industrial to meet anticipated growth requirements in the short to medium-term, provided all land zoned for industrial purposes is utilised for industrial purposes. Industrial land is generally located in the Bell Block Industrial Park or around Port Taranaki. Other industrial land is located in Waitara, Inglewood and Egmont Village. Spot-zoned industrial activities are located throughout urban New Plymouth.
Spot-zoned industrial areas within the New Plymouth urban area are under increasing pressure from commercial and residential redevelopment. Recently former industrial yards and depots are being redeveloped for supermarkets, retirement villages, residential properties or smaller commercial type uses.
Due to the industrial nature of the activities established or anticipated in these zones sensitive activities such as residential, office or retail activities that are not related to the predominant use on-site are inappropriate. An exception is made for trade suppliers, motor vehicle sales and garden centres or similar activities which may locate in the industrial area subject to location and traffic considerations.
Overlay provisions include additional requirements for the establishment and operation of industrial businesses and land uses. Entrance corridors and waterbodies are particularly relevant to the industrial zones.
Two zones are designed to provide for different industrial uses: Light Industry Zone and Heavy Industry Zone.
Light Industry Zone This zone provides for light industrial activities that may generate odour, dust or noise emissions. This includes light manufacturing, production, logistics, storage, transport and distribution activities. This zone is generally located within suburban areas.
92 New Plymouth District Council Heavy Industry Zone This zone provides for industrial activities that may generate objectionable/significant odour, dust and noise emissions. A key attribute of the zone is that it contains sites large enough to accommodate large-scale industrial activities and the large-scale storage of hazardous substances. The zone is typically located close to key freight routes. Appropriate servicing and waste disposal is available, including trade waste connections
Sensitive activities are not appropriate in the zone and buildings are expected to have a mainly functional standard of amenity.
Objectives
IDZ-O1 Industrial activities are the predominant activity in the industrial zones.
IDZ-O2 The role, function and predominant character of the industrial zones are not compromised by non-industrial activities or incompatible built form.
IDZ-O3 Industrial areas provide a safe and functional working environment with a reasonable level of amenity.
IDZ-O4 The adverse environmental effects generated by industrial activities are managed at zone boundaries and around sensitive activities.
IDZ-O5 Industrial wastes are managed to avoid adverse effects on waterbodies, sensitive features and non-industrial activities.
Policies Activities – Light Industry Zone
IDZ-P1 Allow activities which are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Light Industry Zone, including: industrial activities; and ancillary activities.
IDZ-P2 Manage activities which are potentially compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Light Industry Zone, including:
sport and recreation activities; community activities; and commercial service activities.
IDZ-P3 Avoid activities which are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Light Industry Zone, including:
living activities; visitor accommodation; education activities; and business and retail activities.
Draft District Plan 93 Policies Activities – Heavy Industry Zone
IDZ-P4 Allow activities which are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Heavy Industry Zone, including: industrial activities; and ancillary activities;
IDZ-P5 Avoid activities which are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Heavy Industry Zone, including: living activities; education activities; visitor accommodation; sport and recreation activities; community activities; intensive farming; business and retail activities; commercial service activities that do not have a functional requirement to be located within the zone; and subdivision that creates small allotments.
Activities – Light Industry Zone and Heavy Industry Zone
IDZ-P6 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the industrial zones if they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the purpose of the activity and whether it supports or provides services to industrial activities and results in the efficient use of land; the site design, layout and scale of the activity and whether it is compatible with the character and amenity of the zone; the availability of adequate infrastructure and services to service the activity; the ability to effectively manage any wastes generated by the activity; adequate provision of permeable surfaces to provide for the on-site disposal of storm water; the ability to avoid adverse effects on waterbodies and other sensitive features; and the ability to internalise effects and avoid conflict with existing industrial activities.
IDZ-P7 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the industrial zones where the activity will: undermine the role, function and character of the city centre and local centres and/or involve the establishment of business and retail activities that are more appropriately located in a centres zone;
94 New Plymouth District Council Policies limit or constrain the establishment and/or use of land for industrial activities; and/or result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or lead to conflict with industrial activities.
Effects – Light Industry Zone and Heavy Industry Zone
IDZ-P8 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the industrial zones by controlling the effects of: building/structure bulk, scale and location; traffic and parking effects to ensure the efficient operation of the transport network; infrastructure and stormwater; noise and light; separation from sensitive activities and features; and landscaping and screening of outdoor storage.
IDZ-P9 Require that activities ensure any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate for the industrial zones and that will not detract from industrial amenity by: ensuring built form is of a scale that is compatible with the role and function of the zone; managing noise and light emissions to an acceptable level; and controlling the size, design and type of signage.
IDZ-P10 Require that activities maintain on-site and streetscape amenity by: retaining existing trees, vegetation and established landscaping; providing landscaping along road and site boundaries; and minimising hard standing areas and maximising opportunities for permeable outdoor space.
IDZ-P11 Ensure the safe and efficient operation of the transport network by: managing the location and construction of vehicle crossings and access onto the transport network; and requiring adequate on-site provision for parking, loading and standing, manoeuvering and queuing space for the activity.
IDZ-P12 Require adequate permeable surfaces within sites to ensure that adverse effects on water quality, water quantity and amenity values are avoided or mitigated.
IDZ-P13 Ensure industrial activities located on sites adjacent to Centres, Commercial Service, Living, Open Space, Rural and Mäori Purpose Zones minimise any adverse effects on sites within those zones by: requiring buildings to be of a bulk, height and form that does not detract from the amenity of adjoining zones;
Draft District Plan 95 Policies achieving adequate separation and/or setbacks to: i) manage adverse noise and light overspill at receiving sites; and ii) ensure adverse daylighting and shading effects are minimised; providing screening and landscaping to minimise adverse visual effects; and internalising effects and adequately mitigating conflict with existing activities.
Subdivision
IDZ-P14 Ensure subdivision results in the efficient use of land and is compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the industrial zones and achieves: the maintenance of the integrity of the zone for industrial uses, while allowing the creation of sites for established activities; lot sizes that are sufficient to accommodate industrial activities; provision for the on-site disposal of stormwater including the use of low impact solutions; and where the subdivision adjoins Centres, Commercial Service, Living, Open Space, Rural and Mäori Purpose Zones, the incorporation of sufficient setback areas at zone interfaces that are planted and/or landscaped prior to industrial uses commencing.
Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity Both zones: • Industrial activities. • Ancillary activities.
Manage as a discretionary activity Light Industry Zone: • Commercial service activities. • Sport and recreation activities. • Community activities.
Control as a non-complying activity Light Industry Zone: • Living activities. • Education activities. • Business and retail activities.
Heavy Industry Zone: • Living activities. • Education activities. • Sport and recreation facilities.
96 New Plymouth District Council • Community activities. • Business and retail activities. • Commercial service activities.
Effects: control with performance standards • Building/structure bulk, scale and location. • Traffic and parking effects to ensure the efficient operation of the transport network. • Infrastructure and stormwater. • Noise and light. • Separation from sensitive activities and features. • Landscaping and screening of outdoor storage.
Draft District Plan 97
3.1 Residential Zone The Residential Zone provides for low density suburban housing in the urban areas of New Plymouth, Waitara, Inglewood, Bell Block and Oakura and includes smaller rural and coastal settlements such as Okato, Lepperton, Urenui, Onaero and Tongaporutu.
Fundamentally the zone provides for traditional suburban densities and housing forms. The zone is currently characterised by one building per site, with houses typically being detached and set on generous sized sections, surrounded by areas of private open space and garden/landscaping.
Large amounts of subdivision or multi-unit development are not anticipated within this zone. However, to provide for diversity in housing choice and affordable housing options, the zone will provide opportunities for some increased density in the form of smaller scale and low rise infill development where appropriate. Proposals will be assessed though a resource consent process and the Council will promote a consistently high standard of design for all new infill and multi-unit housing.
The Residential Zone provides for areas where most people sleep and enjoy their leisure time and, as such, a more peaceful, quieter surrounding is expected. For this reason, the District Plan seeks to ensure that high standards of on-site amenity are provided, including good access to sunlight and daylight and privacy. Potential amenity impacts of established and potential uses, including noise and light overspill, are also taken into account.
In addition to residential living, the Residential Zone also accommodates a variety of non- residential uses that operate from existing houses or from purpose-built buildings. Many of these activities provide important community services including shops, churches, marae, schools, service stations, early childhood centres, kohanga reo and doctors' surgeries. For the most part, these non-residential activities complement the suburban setting and do not give rise to incompatible adverse effects. However, it is important that residential character and amenity is protected and therefore new non-residential activities and buildings will only be accommodated where it is necessary to address a demonstrated local need and that residential amenity is not compromised. The exception to this rule are work from home activities which are permitted throughout the zone provided they do not generate adverse effects on their surrounding environment.
98 New Plymouth District Council Objectives
RZ-O1 Residential activities are the predominant activity in the Residential Zone.
RZ-O2 The role, function and predominant character of the Residential Zone is not compromised by non-residential activities.
RZ-O3 A variety of housing, types, sizes and tenures are available in different locations to respond to community needs.
RZ-O4 Buildings provide occupants and neighbours with high amenity living environments with privacy, access to daylight/sunlight and usable, accessible outdoor space.
RZ-O5 Adverse effects of activities are managed to maintain residential amenity.
RZ-O6 Streetscapes, natural features, residential character and/or amenity are not compromised by adverse changes to landform and incompatible built form.
RZ-O7 Urban subdivision in established neighbourhoods is designed to complement the low density suburban character.
RZ-O8 Greenfield subdivision create neighbourhoods that are designed to provide for a range of housing types and residential character.
Policies Activities
RZ-P1 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Residential Zone, including:
residential activities (up to two residential houses per site); conversion of a residential house into two residential houses; infill house or residential flat; papakainga housing; home occupations; and existing non-residential activities.
RZ-P2 Manage the scale of activities that are potentially compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Residential Zone, including:
education activities; retirement villages; supported residential care; community activities; visitor accommodation; multi-unit developments (three or more residential houses per site); retail activities; business service activities;
Draft District Plan 99 Policies supermarkets; and sport and recreation activities.
RZ-P3 Avoid activities that are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Residential Zone, including:
industrial activities; rural and rural industry activities; commercial service activities; large format retail activities; and integrated retail activities.
RZ-P4 Ensure that home occupation activities maintain residential character and amenity by:
controlling the type and scale of the activity; requiring the activity to be ancillary to the residential activity on the site and to take place within a house or ancillary building; managing outdoor storage of vehicles, equipment or goods that are visible from a public place; and managing employee, customer and visitor visits to the site.
RZ-P5 Only allow non-residential activities that are potentially compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Residential Zone if they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the purpose of the activity and whether it services neighbourhood needs and/or enhances social connectivity; the scale of the activity and whether the site design and layout is compatible with the character and amenity of the residential area; whether the activity is close to and accessible to existing centres and not in isolated locations; the potential to undermine the viability of a nearby centre; and the availability of adequate existing and/or planned infrastructure to service the activity.
RZ-P6 Only allow multi-unit developments where: high quality on-site amenity can be achieved; the proportions or topography of the site mean that it is possible to maximise development without generating unreasonable adverse effects on the amenity of adjoining sites and the surrounding area; and the development can be adequately serviced and/or infrastructure upgraded to meet the needs of the development.
RZ-P7 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the Residential Zone where the activity will:
undermine the role and function of the zone;
100 New Plymouth District Council Policies limit or constrain the establishment and use of land for residential activities; compromise the character and amenity of the surrounding area; and result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or will lead to conflict.
Effects
RZ-P8 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the Residential Zone by controlling the effects of:
building height, bulk and location; site coverage and private outdoor space; setbacks from boundaries; building recession planes; noise, lighting, glare, traffic effects, vibration and signage; construction work; subdivision; and earthworks.
RZ-P9 Require buildings to achieve high quality on-site amenity by: ensuring a reasonable level of daylight/sunlight access and privacy is provided for; providing sufficient separation distances between buildings to avoid adverse enclosure and dominance effects; and creating private, usable outdoor spaces that can be accessed directly from a living area that are of an appropriate size to reinforce the spacious qualities of the residential setting.
RZ-P10 Require that buildings maintain residential amenity for surrounding properties and public places by:
ensuring that the siting, scale and intensity of the building is compatible with surrounding development patterns and neighbourhood character; ensuring that the building appearance respects the residential setting; protecting visual amenity by maintaining a low building height; ensuring space between buildings by requiring private outdoor space and controlling building site coverage; protecting visual amenity by controlling the placement of accessory buildings and garages in front yards; increasing the opportunities for landscaping and permeable surface areas by controlling the amount of hard surfacing used; where possible, retaining visually prominent trees, bush and established landscaping that contribute to the amenity of the site and/or neighbourhood; and allowing passive surveillance of the street by minimising the use of high fences or walls on the street boundary.
Draft District Plan 101 Policies
RZ-P11 In addition to Policies RZ-P9 and RZ-P10, require that new multi-unit developments achieve high quality on-site amenity as well as maintaining the amenity of surrounding properties and public places by: ensuring the development is in general accordance with the residential design guide; requiring that buildings are designed, orientated and landscaped to mitigate against dominance, privacy and amenity impacts; requiring that unarticulated, large blank facades are broken down into smaller elements through variations in facades, materials, roof form, building separation and other design elements; providing adequate storage space and utility and/or refuse areas to accommodate typical residential living requirements; and providing insulation to minimise adverse noise effects between residential units (if attached) and road noise (if located next to state highways and arterial roads).
RZ-P12 Require that activities ensure any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate for the Residential Zone by:
ensuring the activity does not generate inappropriate or excessive noise, vibration, light or glare (particularly at night); providing sufficient on-site parking, servicing, pedestrian and cycling space; minimising adverse effects on the local transport network, including from inappropriate traffic volumes and the use of on-street parking; controlling the size, design and type of signage; managing the effects of construction work; and minimising hard surfacing and, where possible, retaining or providing visually prominent trees, bush and/or landscaping.
RZ-P13 Encourage high quality living activities that are healthy, accessible and sustainable by: orientating buildings to maximise solar gain for natural light, warmth and moisture control; using passive design to meet the heating and cooling needs of the occupants; incorporating innovative design to assist occupants in minimising water consumption; and providing small-scale on-site energy generation to meet the needs of occupants.
Subdivision
RZ-P14 Require that urban subdivision is designed in general accordance with the residential design guide to maintain and provide residential amenity by:
ensuring allotment size and shape does not compromise established patterns of development in the neighbourhood;
102 New Plymouth District Council Policies ensuring allotment size and shape allows for adequate sunlight to living and outdoor spaces, on-site amenity and privacy; maximising opportunities for buildings to face the road or overlook public spaces; and prioritising shared vehicle access to avoid the proliferation of vehicle crossings that could affect the safety of the road and the footpath, and limit the opportunity to plant street trees, and provide permeable surface areas, on-street car parking and/or cycleways.
RZ-P15 Ensure that greenfield subdivision is designed in general accordance with the residential design guide having regard to: the type, location and density of the development to ensure it is suitable for the area; the ability to provide adequate infrastructure to service the needs of the subdivision; the topography, natural and physical constraints, and/or natural features; the ability to minimise changes to landforms; the ability to maintain and enhance the values of adjacent land that is zoned open space (if applicable); the ability to achieve connected and accessible neighbourhoods, including a transport network that: i) is easy and safe to use for different modes of transport and those with restricted mobility; ii) provides a variety of routes within the immediate neighbourhood and between adjacent sites; iii) is connected to public transport, nearby shops, schools, employment, open spaces and other activities; iv) limits cul-de-sacs to where the site and topographical constraints inhibit connections; and v) provides spaces that encourage social interaction, neighbourhood cohesion and a sense of place for the neighbourhood; aligns roads and allotments to maximise sunlight access; the opportunities for informal neighbourhood surveillance of the street and public spaces; whether staging is appropriate to ensure development occurs logically and starts in the area closest to an existing neighbourhood and infrastructure; incorporating Te Aranga Principles where appropriate; and ensuring open space is provided for.
Draft District Plan 103 Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Residential activities (including papakainga housing). • Home occupation, e.g. work from home, bed and breakfast. • Infill house or residential flat, e.g. 70m2 “granny flat”. • Conversion of an existing residential house into two residential houses (provided each residential house meets private outdoor space, etc. performance standards). • Construction, alterations and additions (subject to standard bulk and location performance standards). • Demolition.
Manage as a full discretionary activity • New non-residential activities and buildings, including: retail and business activities, retirement villages, boarding houses, educational facilities, childcare facilities, visitor accommodation and community facilities. • Three or more residential houses (defined as a multi-unit development) to be assessed against a new residential design guide. Control as a non-complying activity • Industrial activities. • Rural activities. • Commercial service activities.
Other • Introduction of a residential design guide to help assess developments that require resource consent and/or assess subdivision and/or associated earthworks. • New definitions relating to residential activity; residential house, e.g. to replace terms habitable building and dwelling house; residential flat, e.g. granny flat; infill house and multi-unit development. • New definitions relating to certain non-residential activities, e.g. retail activity, visitor accommodation, etc.
Effects: control with performance standards • Building height lowered from 9m to 8m. • Minimum lot size: 2 - 450m New Plymouth, Waitara and Inglewood. 2 - 300m multi-unit development in New Plymouth, Waitara and Inglewood. 2 - 600m Oakura, Onaero, Urenui, Tongaporutu, Lepperton, Okato and Egmont Village. • Forty per cent site coverage with permeable surface area requirements. • New front yard setbacks and treatment of garages and fences. • New outdoor space requirement for new houses. • Number of car parks required per residential house reduced from two to one.
104 New Plymouth District Council 3.2 Medium Density Residential Zone The Medium Density Residential Zone will provide for residential development in New Plymouth city at increased densities. Generally consisting of two storey townhouses on smaller sections, the zone will play a key role in minimising urban sprawl and increasing housing supply and housing options in the district.
Social diversity is an important factor in the social well-being of any city. New Plymouth is enriched by an increasing variety of cultures and demographics and needs a variety of housing sizes and types, including different mixes of housing to cater for both smaller and larger households, e.g. single people, couples, older people seeking to downsize, large/extended families and people flatting. There is also a need to increase the proportion of lower cost accommodation, social housing and housing for people of all abilities.
The areas identified for the Medium Density Residential Zone are located in close proximity to the city centre and around the local centres of Bell Block, Fitzroy, Moturoa and Westown. These areas already contain a mix of uses including existing traditional residential housing forms (stand-alone houses and low density townhouses and flats) but it is anticipated that they will change over time to medium density housing. There are also small pockets of land located in existing suburbs which either are vacant or have other non-residential uses on site (such as light industry) which have also been identified as suitable for a change to residential purposes in the future.
The key criteria for identifying the Medium Density Residential Zone are: • Location. Close to centres with convenience shopping, services and/or local employment. • Access. Good access to roading infrastructure and/or public transport routes. • Land supply. Room for new residential redevelopment. • Facilities. Good access to community services, schools and open spaces. • Economics. Commercially viable options for developers to produce targeted residential development at an affordable price for potential owners. In these areas comprehensive redevelopment of housing will be encouraged and facilitated, with an increase in density likely to result in changes to the existing character and scale of buildings in these areas. Rather than seeking to maintain the existing character of these areas, e.g. one house per section, the zone promotes efficiencies in land use by encouraging three or more units/houses up to two storeys in height that are of high quality.
To ensure a good quality of life and amenity for existing and future residents, the provisions of the zone promote high standard urban design and on-site amenity to ensure good access to sunlight and daylight and privacy. Opportunities for healthy, accessible and sustainable buildings are encouraged, including the provision of small-scale on-site energy generation to meet the needs of residents. Off-site, the provisions require site design and layout be considered in order to protect and/or enhance the amenity of surrounding properties and the wider neighbourhood.
In order to meet the needs of residents living within this zone, some complementary non- residential activities such as childcare facilities or rest homes are permitted as of right. However, other non-residential activities such as business service and commercial service activities are carefully managed to ensure that the land supply remains available for medium density development now and into the future.
Draft District Plan 105 Objectives MDRZ-O1 Residential activities are the predominant activity in the Medium Density Residential Zone.
MDRZ-O2 The role and function of the Medium Density Residential Zone is not compromised by incompatible non-residential activities.
MDRZ-O3 The predominant character of Medium Density Residential Zone will transition to medium density housing over time.
MDRZ-O4 There is an increase in the variety of housing densities, types, sizes and tenures in different locations to respond to community needs.
MDRZ-O5 Buildings provide occupants and neighbours with high amenity living environments with privacy, access to daylight/sunlight and usable, accessible outdoor space.
MDRZ-O6 Medium density housing contributes positively to a compact urban environment and to streetscape character by providing quality, well-designed buildings and using land efficiently.
MDRZ-O7 Subdivision of land, including amalgamation of allotments, results in lot sizes that can provide for comprehensive development of land and/or buildings which will accommodate medium density living.
Policies Activities
MDRZ-P1 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Medium Density Residential Zone, including:
multi-unit residential activities, including terraced housing, semi-detached and detached townhouses; conversion of existing houses into separate houses; conversion of non-residential buildings into residential houses; living activities; education activities; community activities; visitor accommodation; and existing non-residential activities.
MDRZ-P2 Manage activities that are potentially compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Medium Density Residential Zone, including:
infill houses or residential flats (two or less residential houses per site); retail activities; business service activities; supermarkets; and sport and recreation activities.
106 New Plymouth District Council Policies
MDRZ-P3 Avoid activities that are incompatible with the role and function of the Medium Density Residential Zone, including:
industrial activities; rural and rural industry activities; commercial service activities; integrated retail activities; and large format retail activities.
MDRZ-P4 Ensure that home occupation activities maintain residential character and amenity by:
controlling the type and scale of the activity; requiring the activity to be ancillary to the residential activity on the site and to take place within a house or ancillary building; managing outdoor storage of vehicles, equipment or goods that are visible from a public place; and managing employee, visitor and customer visits to the site.
MDRZ-P5 Only allow activities that are potentially compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Medium Density Residential Zone if they are
located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the purpose of the activity and whether it assists to ensure a range of housing choices, including affordable housing options, is provided for in the zone; the type and scale of the activity and its impact on neighbouring residential properties and residential amenity; whether it services community needs and/or enhances social connectivity; its potential to undermine the role, function and/or viability of the city centre and local centre; and the availability of adequate existing and/or planned infrastructure to service the activity.
MDRZ-P6 Only allow infill houses or residential flats that do not undermine the role and function of the Medium Density Residential Zone where:
the building provides capacity for future flexibility and can be used to meet a variety of housing needs; the ability to retrofit or convert the building into more houses in the future is not constrained; and the location of the building would not inhibit comprehensive redevelopment of the site or the surrounding area or would not compromise subdivision opportunities for more intensive living in the future.
MDRZ-P7 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the Medium Density Residential Zone where the activity will:
Draft District Plan 107 Policies undermine the role and function of the zone; limit or constrain the establishment and use of land for sensitive activities; compromise the character and amenity of the surrounding area; and result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or will lead to conflict.
Effects
MDRZ-P8 Maintain residential character and amenity by controlling the effects of: building height, bulk and location; site coverage and private outdoor space; setbacks from boundaries; building recession planes; noise, lighting, glare, traffic effects, vibration and signage; construction work; subdivision; and earthworks.
MDRZ-P9 Require that buildings maintain residential amenity for surrounding properties and public places and do not result in overdevelopment of sites by: managing the height, bulk and form of buildings to minimise adverse visual amenity effects including a sense of enclosure and dominance effects; ensuring a reasonable level of daylight/sunlight access and privacy is provided for; ensuring space between buildings by requiring private outdoor space and controlling building site coverage; providing adequate storage space and utility and/or refuse areas to meet the needs of the activities in the building; requiring sound attenuation to appropriately manage adverse noise effects; increasing the opportunities for landscaping and permeable surface areas by controlling the amount of hard surfacing used; and allowing passive surveillance of the street or public open space by minimising the use of high fences or walls on boundaries.
MDRZ-P10 In addition to Policies MDRZ-P8 and MDRZ-P9, require medium density housing development to achieve high quality on-site amenity by:
requiring private, usable outdoor space that can be accessed directly from a living area; and requiring sound attenuation to minimise adverse noise effects between residential units (if attached) and road noise (if located next to state highways and arterial roads).
108 New Plymouth District Council Policies
MDRZ-P11 In addition to Policies MDRZ-P8, MDRZ-P9 and MDRZ-P10, require medium density housing to maintain amenity for surrounding properties and to deliver high quality streetscapes by: ensuring the scale and bulk of buildings is broken down through variations in facades, materials, roof form, building separation and other design elements; orientating buildings to face the street (without compromising solar gain) and limiting the use of unarticulated blank walls and facades to reinforcing visual connection with the street; discouraging the placement of accessory buildings, garages, parking areas and access ways that detract from, dominate or obscure housing as viewed from public places; and discouraging accessways that limit opportunities for passive surveillance and/or run between properties with high sided walls or fences that create low amenity or unsafe environments.
MDRZ-P12 Require that activities ensure any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate in the Medium Density Residential Zone and that
will maintain residential amenity by: ensuring the activity does not generate inappropriate or excessive noise, vibration, light or glare (particularly at night); providing sufficient on-site parking, servicing, pedestrian and cycling space and if not, whether these can be off-set by alternative measures; minimising adverse effects on the local transport network, including from inappropriate traffic volumes and the use of on-street parking; ensuring the required on-site infrastructure can be adequately serviced and/or upgraded; controlling the size, design and type of signage; managing the effects of construction work; and minimising hard surfacing and, where possible, retaining or providing visually prominent trees, bush and/or landscaping.
MDRZ-P13 Encourage high quality living activities that are healthy, accessible and sustainable by: orientating buildings to maximise solar gain for natural light, warmth and moisture control; using passive design to meet the heating and cooling needs of the occupants; incorporating innovative design to assist occupants in minimising water consumption; and providing small scale onsite energy generation to meet the needs of occupants.
MDRZ-P14 Encourage the retention of visually prominent trees, bush and established landscaping that contribute to the amenity of the site and/or neighbourhood.
Draft District Plan 109 Policies Subdivision
MDRZ-P15 Ensure subdivision is designed to reinforce the role and function of the Medium Density Residential Zone by:
minimising fragmentation of land and/or creating small allotments which would inhibit comprehensive redevelopment of the site or the surrounding area; minimising a proliferation of vehicle crossings that could affect road and footpath safety, or limit the opportunity to plant street trees, provide landscaped permeable surface areas, and/or provide on-street car parking and/or cycleways; providing adequate infrastructure to service the needs of the subdivision; integrating topography and natural features and addressing natural and physical constraints; and assisting to ensure safe, connected and accessible neighbourhoods.
Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Living activities. • No limit on the number of houses. • Change of use for existing non-residential activities. • Some new non-residential activities and buildings, including; retirement villages, boarding houses, educational facilities, visitor accommodation, community facilities. • Home occupation, e.g. work from home, bed and breakfast. • Conversion of an existing house into separate houses (provided each house meets private outdoor space performance standards). • Conversion of non-residential building into residential houses. • Demolition. Manage as a full discretionary activity • Construction of new buildings and structures assessed against a new residential design guide* • Alterations and additions that alter the height or footprint of existing buildings assessed against a new residential design guide* • Subdivision assessed against a new residential design guide. • Infill houses or residential flats (two or less houses per site), retail activities, business service activities, supermarkets and sport and recreation activities. • Infill house or residential flat, e.g. 70m2 granny flat. • Include a note regarding non-notification. Control as a non-complying activity • Industrial activities. • Rural and rural industry activities. • Commercial service activities.
110 New Plymouth District Council • Integrated retail activities. • Large format retail activities.
Effects: control with performance standards • Building height 10m. • No minimum lot size. • Sixty per cent site coverage (excluding driveway) with minimum permeable surface area requirements. • Side boundary setback of 1.5m. • Building recession planes. • Maximum building length of 30m. • Front yard setbacks and treatment of garages and fences. • Outdoor space requirements. • Sound attenuation for attached units or close state highways and arterial roads. • One car park required per unit, but every four units needs to provide a visitor space.
Other • New definitions relating to residential activity; residential house, e.g. to replace dwelling house; residential flat, e.g. granny flat; infill house and multi-unit development. • New definitions relating to certain non-residential activities, e.g. retail activities, visitor Accommodation, etc.
Draft District Plan 111
4.1 Sport and Recreation, Neighbourhood and Natural Open Space Zones Open spaces are where the community can engage in sport and recreation activities and where natural and historic heritage values are maintained and enhanced. Open spaces contribute positively to the social, physical and mental well-being of the community.
There are a range of open spaces within the district where the community can exercise, play, socialise and relax including local neighbourhood parks, sport and recreation spaces, shared pathway networks, green spaces and conservation reserves. Recreation open spaces and facilities assist to create an attractive living environment in the district, provide opportunities for the public to access and appreciate natural and historic heritage values and contribute strongly to the community’s sense of place and identity.
Ensuring that activities and development within open space areas are of a type and scale that is compatible with the area is essential to ensure the function of open space is not compromised. However different open space areas have different functions and levels of character and amenity. As such, open spaces are managed under three zones: Sport and Recreation Zone, Neighbourhood Open Space Zone and Natural Open Space Zone.
Sport and Recreation Zone This zone applies to public open space that provides for organised sports and recreation. Such areas will normally have associated buildings such as clubrooms, changing sheds or toilet facilities. Examples include Hickford Park, Karo Park and Corbett Park. These spaces are areas where people can also enjoy leisure activities such as kicking a ball around.
The level of development anticipated in this zone is expected to be higher than other open space zones.
Neighbourhood Open Space Zone This zone provides for a range of open spaces varying in size from small neighbourhood parks to large regional parks which are used for a variety of informal uses where people can enjoy activities such as walking and cycling, skateboarding, swimming, surfing, camping and kicking a ball around. Some of these open spaces are located near waterbodies, the coast and in urban neighbourhoods and form an important part of the district’s shared pathway network. Grazing may also be undertaken for land management purposes.
112 New Plymouth District Council Leisure activities are the predominant activities in this zone. These public open spaces are generally more open, with less built features and contribute to an attractive living environment for people within the district.
Examples of these open spaces include Te Henui Walkway, James Nuku Park, East End Reserve and the motorcamps at Oakura and Belt Road.
Natural Open Space Zone This zone applies to public and private open spaces that contain high natural, ecological, landscape and historic heritage values and includes a variety of parks and historic reserves, coastal esplanade reserves, local purpose reserves and recreation reserves often within the urban environment and along waterbodies and the edge of the coastal environment.
These areas generally have a high degree of biodiversity requiring active management. Examples of these types of open spaces include Barrett’s Domain, Waipu Lagoons, sections of Corbett Park and Peringa Park, and Matekai Park and the Nga Motu/Sugar Loaf Islands.
These are spaces that the community value and are where people can relax and enjoy recreation, cultural and leisure activities such as walking and cycling, fishing, picnicking, boating and customary activities such as gathering mahinga kai. Some of these spaces are used for cultural activities and are rich in historic heritage and cultural heritage values.
A low level of development is anticipated within this zone to retain the natural/biodiversity values within natural open spaces.
Objectives
Sport and recreation and leisure activities are the predominant activities in the OSZ-O1 Sport and Recreation Zone and the Neighbourhood Open Space Zone.
Public open spaces with natural, ecological, landscape and/or historic heritage OSZ-O2 values are maintained and enhanced and are available to the public to use and enjoy. The role, function, predominant character and amenity values of the open OSZ-O3 space zones are not compromised by incompatible activities and/or built form.
Open space land is used efficiently and the number and scale of buildings is OSZ-O4 limited.
There are opportunities for tangata whenua to undertake customary and OSZ-O5 cultural activities in open space areas.
Policies Activities – Sport and Recreation Zone
OSZ-P1 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Sport and Recreation Zone, including:
sport and recreation activities;
ancillary activities;
community activities;
Draft District Plan 113 temporary events; and marae, papakainga housing and customary activities.
OSZ-P2 Manage activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Sport and Recreation Zone, including:
visitor accommodation; commercial service activities; business and retail activities; education activities, and subdivision.
OSZ-P3 Avoid activities that are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Sport and Recreation Zone, including: living activities; rural and rural industry activities; and industrial activities.
Activities – Neighbourhood Open Space Zone
OSZ-P4 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Neighbourhood Open Space Zone, including: ancillary activities; temporary events; marae, papakainga housing and customary activities; and campgrounds.
OSZ-P5 Manage activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Neighbourhood Open Space Zone, including: community activities; education activities; and subdivision.
OSZ-P6 Avoid activities that are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Neighbourhood Open Space Zone, including: business and retail activities; living activities; rural industry; industrial activities; commercial service activities; and visitor accommodation (except campgrounds).
114 New Plymouth District Council Activities – Natural Open Space Zone
OSZ-P7 Allow activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Natural Open Space Zone, including: planting and restoration activities; and customary activities.
OSZ-P8 Manage activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Natural Open Space Zone, including: community activities; retail activities; and education activities.
OSZ-P9 Avoid activities that are incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Natural Open Space Zone, including: living activities; business and retail activities; commercial service activities; sport and recreation activities; industrial activities; rural industry; visitor accommodation; and subdivision.
Activities – Sport and Recreation, Neighbourhood and Natural Open Space Zones
OSZ-P10 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the open space zones if they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the purpose and scale of the activity and its compatibility with the role, function and character of the open space zones; whether the activity is ancillary to and/or supports open space activities; the extent to which the activity may constrain the establishment and operation of open space activities or restrict public access to and across open space; the activity’s sensitivity to established open space activities and the potential for conflict and/or adverse reverse sensitivity effects; the ability to service the activity with adequate on-site infrastructure and services; whether the activity enhances open space values, social connection and vibrancy.
OSZ-P11 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the open space zones where the activity will: undermine the role, function and character of the zone;
Draft District Plan 115 limit or constrain the establishment and use of land for open space activities; compromise natural, biodiversity, ecological, landscape and/or historic heritage values; and result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or lead to conflict with open space activities.
Effects – Sport and Recreation, Neighbourhood and Natural Open Space Zones
OSZ-P12 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the open space zones by controlling the effects of:
bulk, scale and location of built form; site coverage and building size; setbacks from boundaries; noise, signage and lighting effects; traffic, vehicle access and parking effects; clearance of indigenous vegetation; and infrastructure and stormwater.
OSZ-P13 Ensure that buildings and structures maintain open space character and amenity by: controlling the bulk, height, scale and form of any buildings and structures to ensure compatibility with open space areas, including: i) requiring building and facilities in the Sport and Recreation Zone to minimise dominance and shading effects on adjoining living activities while providing for the functional requirements of sport and recreation activities; ii) encouraging the agglomeration of buildings and structures in the Neighbourhood Open Space Zone to minimise the loss of spaciousness; and iii) restricting the establishment of buildings and structures in the Natural Open Space Zone to locations where adverse effects on biodiversity, historic heritage and/or landscape values are avoided. minimising adverse daylighting, shading, dominance and/or enclosure effects on adjacent living activities and on street scape amenity at the zone interface by requiring adequate separation and/or setback distances; integrating new buildings and structures with existing built form, including walkways, cycleways and pedestrian access points; and ensuring the building maximises opportunities for multifunctional use by sport and recreation activities.
OSZ-P14 Require that activities ensure any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate in the zone and that will maintain the character and amenity of the open space zones by: managing noise and/or light overspill and the hours of operation to minimise the impact on surrounding living activities;
116 New Plymouth District Council ensuring the safe and efficient use of the transport network by managing traffic and parking effects on or in the vicinity of the site, particularly through periods of peak demand; providing sufficient infrastructure and services to meet the activity’s needs; controlling the size, design and type of signage; managing the effects of construction work; and minimising hard surfacing and, where possible, retaining or providing visually prominent trees, bush and/or landscaping.
Subdivision
OSZ-P15 Ensure subdivision results in the efficient use of land and is compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the open space zones and: does not result in fragmentation of open space land and/or create smaller allotments which would undermine the role and function of the zones; creates allotments of a design, layout and size that achieves low density built form and does not constrain the establishment and operation of open space activities; and does not compromise the natural, ecological, landscape and historic heritage values of open space areas and minimises adverse effects.
Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity Sport and Recreation Zone: • Sport and recreation activities. • Ancillary activities. • Community activities. • Temporary events. • Marae, papakainga housing and customary activities. Neighbourhood Open Space Zone: • Temporary events. • Marae, papakainga housing and customary activities. • Campgrounds. Natural Open Space Zone: • Planting and restoration activities. • Customary activities.
Manage as a discretionary activity Sport and Recreation Zone: • Visitor accommodation. • Business and retail activities. • Commercial service activities.
Draft District Plan 117 • Education activities. • Subdivision. Neighbourhood Open Space Zone: • Sport and recreation activities. • Community activities. • Education activities. • Subdivision. Natural Open Space Zone: • Community activities. • Sport and recreation activities. • Retail activities. • Education activities. • Subdivision.
Control as a non-complying activity Sport and Recreation Zone: • Living activities. • Rural activities. • Industrial activities.
Neighbourhood Open Space Zone: • Business and retail activities. • Living activities. • Commercial service activities. • Rural industrial activities. • Visitor accommodation.
Natural Open Space Zone: • Living activities. • Sport and recreational activities. • Business and retail activities. • Commercial service activities. • Industrial activities. • Rural activities. • Visitor accommodation.
118 New Plymouth District Council Effects: control with performance standards • Erection of structures and buildings. • Noise. • Signage. • Lighting. • Parking. • Vehicle access. • Clearance of indigenous vegetation. • Infrastructure and stormwater.
Draft District Plan 119 Mäori Purpose
5.1 Maori Purpose Zone The Mäori Purpose Zone enables marae, papakainga housing and associated activities on land owned by tangata whenua which provides for their unique social, cultural, environmental and economic well-being within the district. This zone recognises and provides for the relationship of Mäori with their ancestral lands. It also enables tangata whenua to exercise kaitiakitanga and undertake activities that reflect Mäori customs and values. This zone provides an opportunity for tangata whenua to realise their economic aspirations.
Marae provide an important community focal point for social gatherings and cultural activities. Papakainga is a form of housing that is often nearby marae and provides another housing choice to the community. Papakainga housing enables tangata whenua to maintain or re-establish connections to their Māori identity, culture and whanau.
The development of iwi or hapū led structure plans and associated provisions are intended to provide the opportunity for tangata whenua to develop land in a way which reflects the unique identities and values of individual sites. If land within the zone is not subject to an Iwi or Hapu Development Plan, Mäori Purpose Zone provisions will apply, setting out what activities and effects are appropriate.
Objectives
MPZ-O1 Tangata whenua are able to exercise kaitiakitanga and tikanga Mäori over land in the Mäori Purpose Zone.
MPZ-O2 Marae and papakainga housing are developed and maintained within the Mäori Purpose Zone.
MPZ-O3 Activities within the Mäori Purpose Zone provide for the social, economic, and cultural well-being of Mäori, while safeguarding ecosystems and sustaining important sites and resources.
MPZ-O4 The effects of Mäori purpose activities are managed at zone boundaries to ensure the character and amenity of surrounding areas are maintained.
120 New Plymouth District Council
Policies Activities
MPZ-P1 Allow Mäori purpose activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Mäori Purpose Zone.
MPZ-P2 Allow Mäori purpose activities that are in accordance with an Iwi or Hapu Development Plan.
MPZ-P3 Manage activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Mäori Purpose Zone or that are not in accordance with an Iwi or Hapu Development Plan.
MPZ-P4 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role and function of the Mäori Purpose Zone if they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the purpose of the activity and whether it is appropriate in the zone; whether the activity will undermine the viability of the city centre and/or a nearby local centre; and whether it will result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or lead to conflict.
Effects
MPZ-P5 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the Mäori Purpose Zone by managing the effects of: building bulk, scale and location; setbacks from boundaries; building recession planes; and noise and traffic effects.
MPZ-P6 Require that activities ensure the effects they generate are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate in the zone and at zone interfaces and that they
will maintain the character and amenity of Mäori purpose areas by: ensuring that the siting, scale and appearance of new buildings respects the character and amenity of adjoining properties; ensuring that the siting of new buildings maintains privacy for adjoining properties; ensuring sufficient separation distances of buildings at zone boundaries; and ensuring the safe and efficient use of the transport network, including through traffic management and travel planning.
MPZ-P7 Support tangata whenua to achieve high quality on site amenity by integrating matauranga Mäori and tikanga Mäori principles.
Draft District Plan 121 Rule summary
Activities
Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Mäori purpose activities or activities in accordance with an Iwi or Hapu Development Plan.
Manage as a discretionary activity • Activities that are not Mäori purpose activities or in accordance with an Iwi or Hapu Development Plan.
Effects: control with performance standards • Building bulk, scale and location. • Setbacks from boundaries. • Building recession planes. • Noise and traffic effects.
122 New Plymouth District Council
6.1 Rural Production Zone The Rural Production Zone is the largest zone in the district. Rural land is an important resource as it underpins the social, economic and cultural well-being of the district. This is because it provides for productive rural activities such as pastoral farming, livestock, horticulture and forestry. It also provides for non-pastoral activities such as resource extraction, e.g. quarrying, oil and gas, and intensive farming, e.g. poultry and pig farming. Even with appropriate management and mitigation, effects like noise, heavy traffic, lighting and spraying can be experienced beyond the boundaries of the site.
The amenity and character of rural land is typified by open, vegetated landscape interspersed by buildings or structures. These may be normal farm buildings and houses or be larger, more numerous and of industrial scale and appearance. Where numerous or larger-scale buildings or structures are proposed, their location, height and scale is managed to ensure development does not dominate the landscape or compromise the open space qualities of the rural setting.
The vast majority of the district's indigenous vegetation and habitat for indigenous species is located in the Rural Production Zone and it also includes the source of our water supplies and the location of many historic heritage sites. Given the importance of these features, special consideration is given to how rural activities operate nearby (also refer to the natural environment section of this District Plan). Pressure for lifestyle block activities in rural areas is also taken into account, with the zone specifically managing unnecessary fragmentation of rural land.
Objectives
RPZ-O1 Rural activities and rural industry are the predominant activity in the Rural Production Zone.
RPZ-O2 The role, function and predominant character of the Rural Production Zone is not compromised by potentially incompatible activities.
RPZ-O3 Activities do not reduce the potential for versatile land to be used in a productive and sustainable manner.
Draft District Plan 123 Objectives
RPZ-O4 Community, residential and tourism activities which support the function and well-being of rural communities and enjoyment of the rural environment are provided for.
RPZ-O5 Rural areas provide safe, functional, production and extraction orientated working environments where the effects of activities are managed to ensure a reasonable level of rural amenity.
RPZ-O6 Adverse effects of activities are managed to maintain rural character and amenity.
RPZ-O7 Sensitive activities are managed to ensure the impact of adverse effects and conflict with rural activities are minimised.
Policies Activities
RPZ-P1 Allow rural activities, rural industry and ancillary activities that are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Production Zone.
RPZ-P2 Manage activities that are potentially compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Production Zone, including: sensitive activities; small lot subdivision for rural activities and rural industry; sport and recreation activities; oil and gas (except petroleum prospecting); large scale intensive farming; education activities; business and retail activities (except large format retail and integrated retail activities); and industrial activities.
RPZ-P3 Avoid activities which are incompatible with role, function and predominant character of the Rural Production Zone, including: residential or rural lifestyle subdivision; retirement villages; large format retail activities; and integrated retail activities.
RPZ-P4 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Production Zone if they are located appropriately, having regard to the effects of the activity and: compatibility with the character and the amenity of the rural area, including site design and scale of the activity;
124 New Plymouth District Council Policies whether the activity will constrain the establishment and operation of rural activities; whether the activity will reduce the potential for versatile land to be used in a productive and sustainable manner; the ability to service the activity with adequate on-site infrastructure and services; and the ability to internalise effects and avoid conflict at zone interfaces.
RPZ-P5 Require large-scale rural activities and rural industry to demonstrate they are located appropriately having regard to: whether the primary access is from an arterial or collector road; sufficient setbacks from sensitive activities by distance and/or topography; and minimisation of adverse visual effects through screen planting, building design, siting, and the retention of existing vegetation.
RPZ-P6 Require activities based on the extraction or processing of rural products, including large-scale soil and aggregate extraction to demonstrate they are located appropriately having regard to: whether the primary access is located on an arterial or collector road or a road designed to provide for anticipated traffic generation; minimisation of visual impacts on surrounding properties through use of topography, bunding and/or screen planting; and the extent of rehabilitation proposed and whether it will enable the establishment of a land use appropriate to the area.
RPZ-P7 Ensure sensitive activities are appropriately located to minimise any reverse sensitivity effects and/or conflict with activities permitted in the Rural Production Zone by: requiring sufficient setbacks from zone boundaries, transport networks, rural activities and rural industry; adopting appropriate design measures to minimise the off-site impacts of rural activities and rural industry; and utilising landscaping, screen planting or existing topography to minimise the visual impact of rural activities and rural industry on building locations/platforms.
RPZ-P8 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the Rural Production Zone where the activity will: undermine the role, function and predominant character of the zone; constrain the establishment and use of land for rural activities; and/or result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or will lead to conflict.
Draft District Plan 125 Policies Effects
RPZ-P9 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Production Zone by managing the effects of: building/structure bulk, scale and location; traffic and transport; and noise and light.
RPZ-P10 Ensure that buildings and structures maintain rural character and visual amenity in accordance with the rural design guide by: locating buildings away from prominent ridgelines and providing separation between buildings; requiring buildings to be designed to a form and scale that is in keeping with the rural landscape; softening with vegetation related to the area and using appropriate boundary treatments; and minimising adverse visual effects through use of appropriate materials and recessive colours.
RPZ-P11 Require that activities ensure that any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate in the Rural Production Zone and that will maintain rural character and amenity by: managing noise and light emissions to an acceptable level, particularly around sensitive activities; and ensuring the safe and efficient use of the transport network and the provision of ongoing maintenance.
Subdivision
RPZ-P12 Require that subdivision achieves the efficient use of productive, versatile land, having regard to the effects of the subdivision, and by: ensuring the design, layout and size of allotments are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the zone; providing low density built form that maintains rural character and amenity; identifying and providing building platforms outside of noise or light overspill contours; and ensuring the design and materials of buildings, accessways and boundary treatments are compatible with the character and amenity of the zone.
126 New Plymouth District Council Rule summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Rural activities. • Rural industry.
Manage as a discretionary activity • Sensitive activities. • Small lot subdivision for rural activities and rural industry. • Sport and recreation activities. • Education facilities. • Business and retail activities (except for large format retail and integrated retail activities). • Industrial activities. • Oil and gas (except petroleum prospecting). • Large scale intensive farming.
Control as a non-complying activity • Residential or rural lifestyle subdivision. • Retirement villages. • Large format retail activities. • Integrated retail activities.
Effects: control with performance standards • Erection of structures and buildings. • Traffic and transport. • Noise. • Light.
Draft District Plan 127 6.2 Rural Lifestyle Zone The Rural Lifestyle Zone provides for rural lifestyle development in identified areas of rural land which are generally close to New Plymouth or town centres. Rural lifestyle zones are typically areas where there is a concentration of rural living facilitated through smaller allotment sizes. These areas are located on the urban fringe of settlements. Subdivision and development of a Rural Lifestyle Zone is expected to meet and maintain rural lifestyle character. Some parts of the zone reflect historical subdivision patterns, while other parts are newly identified areas suitable for future rural lifestyle living.
Objectives
RLZ-O1 Rural lifestyle living is the predominant activity in the Rural Lifestyle Zone.
RLZ-O2 The role, function and predominant character of the Rural Lifestyle Zone is not compromised by incompatible activities.
RLZ-O3 Adverse effects of activities are managed to maintain rural lifestyle character and amenity.
RLZ-O4 Subdivision achieves patterns of development and allotment sizes that provide opportunities for rural lifestyle living.
Policies Activities
RLZ-P1 Allow activities which are compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Lifestyle Zone, including: rural lifestyle living (up to two residential houses per site); rural activities; and home occupations.
RLZ-P2 Manage activities which are potentially compatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Lifestyle Zone, including: retirement villages; education activities; commercial service activities; community activities; visitor accommodation; ancillary activities. rural industry (except petroleum exploration and production activities); and intensive farming
RLZ-P3 Avoid activities that are incompatible with rural lifestyle character, including: residential subdivision and activities; industrial activities;
128 New Plymouth District Council Policies business and retail activities; hazardous facilities; and petroleum exploration and production activities.
RLZ-P4 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Lifestyle Zone if they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the purpose of the activity and whether it supports and/or services the rural lifestyle community needs; the extent to which rural lifestyle living is provided for; the type and scale of the activity and its impact on neighbouring rural lifestyle properties and on properties at zone interfaces; does not undermine the role, function and/or viability of the city centre and local centres; and the ability to service the activity on-site without reliance on the Council’s reticulation systems.
RLZ-P5 Ensure incompatible activities do not locate in the Rural Lifestyle Zone where the activity will: undermine the role, function and predominant character of the zone; constrain the establishment and use of land for rural lifestyle activities; and/or result in adverse reverse sensitivity effects and/or will lead to conflict.
Effects
RLZ-P6 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Lifestyle Zone by controlling the effects of:
building height, design, bulk and location; setbacks from boundaries and boundary treatments; outdoor storage; landscaping and boundary treatment at zone interfaces; and subdivision.
RLZ-P7 Require that buildings and activities maintain and provide for rural lifestyle character and amenity by:
controlling the height, bulk and materials of buildings to minimise adverse visual effects and maintain low density built form; adequately setting the building back from road and side boundaries to maintain low density built form; adequately mitigating any adverse visual effects arising from ancillary structures and utilities, including water tanks and septic tanks, through the use of recessive colours, appropriate screening and/or by burying utilities;
Draft District Plan 129 Policies ensuring boundary treatments, including fencing and landscaping are rural in character; and assessing the access proposed and whether the design, layout and materials are compatible with the character and amenity of the Rural Lifestyle Zone.
RLZ-P8 Require that activities ensure any effects generated are of a type, scale and level that are appropriate in the Rural Lifestyle Zone and that will maintain rural
lifestyle character and amenity by: ensuring the activity does not generate inappropriate or excessive noise, vibration, light overspill (particularly at night) or glare; minimising adverse effects on the local transport network, including from inappropriate traffic volumes (and vehicle types); controlling the size, design and type of signage; and minimising hard surfacing and, where possible, retaining or providing visually prominent trees, bush and/or landscaping.
Subdivision
RLZ-P9 Require that subdivision is designed to reinforce the role, function and predominant character of the Rural Lifestyle Zone by: ensuring the design, layout and size of allotments achieve low density built form that is compatible with the character and amenity of the zone; identifying building platforms that achieve low density built form and provide for rural lifestyle living; integrating topography and natural features and addressing natural and physical constraints; fully servicing the new activity with adequate on-site infrastructure and not relying on the Council’s reticulation systems; and avoiding patterns of development that are more typical of urban areas.
Rural summary Activities Allow as a permitted or controlled activity • Rural lifestyle living (up to two dwellings per site). • Rural activities. • Home occupations. • Allotment size for subdivision within a lifestyle zone (1 ha is controlled). Manage as a discretionary • Retirement villages. • Education activities. • Commercial service activities. • Community activities. • Visitor accommodation.
130 New Plymouth District Council • Ancillary activities. • Rural industry (except petroleum exploration and production activities). • Intensive farming. • Allotment size for subdivision (4000m2 as discretionary). Control as a non-complying activity • Residential subdivision and development. • Industrial activities. • Business and retail activities. • Hazardous facilities. • Petroleum exploration and production activities. Effects: control with performance standards • Setback from road boundary and side boundary for habitable and other buildings. • Maximum height of buildings and structures. • Maximum number of habitable buildings per site of one plus ancillary. • Requirements on boundary treatments, shelter belt requirements. • Design including use of recessive colours.
Draft District Plan 131
6 Major Facilities
7.1 Major Facilities Zone Major facilities are those facilities which are regionally or nationally significant, and which contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of the community. Port Taranaki and New Plymouth Airport are the district’s key transport and logistic hubs, while there are major rural industry facilities in the rural area. The zone can also cover major community facilities that are generally in the New Plymouth urban area.
It is recognised that major networks and distribution assets are also regionally or nationally significant, however these assets are generally located on a number of properties across the district. Some also cross the district boundary into surrounding districts. These assets are more appropriately provided for as designations, or in the network utilities chapter of the District Plan.
Each major facility is large-scale and comprises a range of activities related to the principle activity. Flexibility to develop and adapt the district’s major facilities is important. The unique operational needs and environmental effects associated with each major facility necessitates zoning that is tailored to address those needs and effects, while recognising the extent of lawfully established activities. The recognition of large-scale, single ownership major facilities provides opportunities for innovative improvements and attractive designs which will enhance the locality. These opportunities are encouraged.
Where appropriate, a degree of operational flexibility will be provided for subject to environmental considerations. Managing the effects of activities through the development of concept plans will provide clarity of process and certainty to transport/logistic industries, rural industries and community activities that future innovation and development can be implemented. A concept plan will also provide certainty for neighbouring communities and ensure that the effects of activities on the environment are managed.
The intention of the major facility policies is that each major facility will continue to be used for the principal purpose currently legally provided for on that site, together with other complementary or supporting activities. It is not contemplated that land use at any of the sites will fundamentally change. The effect of major facilities on the wider environment, e.g. heavy traffic or noise, and on those areas which immediately adjoin the facility must be addressed. Harmonious co-existence with neighbours is an important element in the long- term success of major facilities.
132 New Plymouth District Council Objectives
MFZ-O1 Major facilities that are regionally or nationally significant and which contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of the community are recognised and provided for.
MFZ-O2 Major facilities are able to operate and develop effectively and efficiently, while ensuring their adverse effects are managed.
MFZ-O3 The operation of major facilities are not compromised by conflicting activities and reverse sensitivity effects.
Policies Activities
MFZ-P1 Identify major facilities within the district that are regionally or nationally significant including:
major transport/logistic facilities; major rural industry facilities; and major community facilities.
MFZ-P2 Allow major facility activities that have effects which are compatible with the role and function of the Major Facility Zone or that are in accordance with the site’s concept plan.
MFZ-P3 Manage major facility activities which generate effects that are potentially incompatible with the role and function of the Major Facility Zone or that are not in accordance the site’s concept plan.
MFZ-P4 Avoid activities that are not major facility activities and/or ancillary to major facility activities, or that are incompatible with the role and function of the Major Facility Zone.
MFZ-P5 Only allow activities that are potentially incompatible with the role, function and character of the Major Facility Zone if they are located appropriately having regard to the effects of the activity, and: the extent to which the activity is compatible with intended use and development provided for in the relevant concept plan; the extent to which the activity provides for national and regional interests or the wider social, economic needs for the community; and whether the activity would be more appropriate in another zone.
MFZ-P6 Require new sensitive activities to be appropriately separated/setback from existing major transport/logistics facilities and major rural industry facilities to ensure conflict and/or reverse sensitivity effects are minimised.
Effects
MFZ-P7 Maintain the role, function and predominant character of the Major Facility Zone by controlling the effects of:
Draft District Plan 133 Policies building/structure bulk, scale and location; traffic and parking effects; infrastructure and stormwater; noise and light; separation from sensitive activities and features; and landscaping and screening of structures, outdoor storage areas and impervious surfaces.
MFZ-P8 Require major facility activities to minimise adverse effects on the character and amenity of the surrounding areas and at zone interfaces by: managing the height, bulk and form of buildings to minimise adverse visual amenity effects; managing noise and light emissions to an acceptable level, particularly in relation to sensitive activities; ensuring the safe and efficient use of the transport network, including through traffic management and travel planning; mitigating visual impacts at zone interfaces through screening and planting; managing the duration of the activity and any short term effects on surrounding sensitive activities, including construction effects, and maintenance, shut-downs and start up processes; recognising Te Aranga Principles; using best practice industry requirements and technology to ensure efficient use of land and reduce effects; and encouraging consultation with adjacent communities and adoption of adaptive management techniques.
Concept Plans
MFZ-P9 Require concept plans to comprise the level of detail necessary to ensure that comprehensive, coordinated and efficient development occurs, and address the following: the scope/purpose of major facility activities and any ancillary activities directly associated with the operation of the facility including transportation; the on-site location of various activities which constitute the major facility and how the efficient use of land will be achieved; the bulk, scale and location of built form; the location and management of activities around scheduled items and sensitive features on the site and recognition of Te Aranga Principles; how the effects of the activity will be managed to ensure internalization of effects to the extent practicable and minimisation of conflict at zone interfaces; adequate provision of infrastructure for the activity’s current and future needs, including the effective management of stormwater;
134 New Plymouth District Council Policies adaptive management and adoption of best practicable options to minimise adverse effects over time; how the site will be remediated when the major facility is no longer required to allow a future use complementary to the surrounding environment; and the provision of public access to coast and waterbodies and connectivity to, from and within the site.
Rule summary Concept plans will be developed prior to the Proposed District Plan and will include provisions tailored to reflect the purpose and identity of each major facilities asset. General provisions will apply in the absence of a concept plan.
Draft District Plan 135
136 New Plymouth District Council
This list includes definitions for activities that are listed within the zones. Please note this is not an exhaustive list of all the definitions. Further work on all definitions will be undertaken for the Proposed District Plan. The diagram on the next page groups related activity definitions. The groups range from general activities to more specific activities.
The following applies: • When a general activity is listed, e.g. business and retail activities, it includes all specific definitions that sit under it, such as retail activities, supermarkets, large format retail etc, unless otherwise specified in the policy. • Specific activities will have a different activity status depending on the zone. Ancillary activities are anticipated in most zones. These are activities that are located on the same site as the primary activity, e.g. a supermarket, but is incidental to it, small in scale, and serving a supportive function, e.g. an office used for administartion duties.
Draft District Plan 137
Business and Living Sensitive Retail Activities Activities Activities
Retail Residential Living activity activity activity Business service Community activity* Residential flat activity*
Education Supermarket* Infill house activity*
Large format Multi-unit Visitor retail activity* development accommodation*
Integrated retail Home activity* occupation
Marae
Papakainga development
Rural Activities Rural Industry Retirement village*
Farming Intensive Boarding farming house*
Petroleum Petroleum Supported prospecting exploration residential care*
Residential Petroleum Residential house production house
Renewable electricity generation activities
* May contain an ancillary activity
138 New Plymouth District Council Activity List
Ancillary activity means an activity that is subordinate and/or auxiliary to the principal activity on the site. Ancillary activities operate in conjunction with the principal activity and not as a distinct or separate activity.
Boarding house means any residential building providing accommodation for people other than members of the family of the occupier or person in charge or control of the building. It does not include: visitor accommodation, e.g. hotels or motels; bed and breakfast/homestay accommodation; a building forming part of a camping ground, motor camp or other premises where residential accommodation is offered at a daily tariff or other specified rate.
Business and retail activity means: • retail activities; • business service activities; • integrated retail developments; • large format retail activities; and/or • supermarkets.
Business service activity means activities that provide personal, property, financial, household, private or business services and/or advice and includes, but is not limited to: • offices; • professional services, e.g. lawyers, accountants, engineering, surveying, veterinary services insurance, not for profit organisations, local and central government agencies; • medical and health services, e.g. medical centres, pharmacists, dentists, laboratories (Taranaki Base Hospital is not included); and • personal services, e.g. hairdressing, beauty therapy, dry cleaning, funeral homes, post office and shoe repairs.
Camping ground means any area of land used, or designed or intended to be used, for rent, hire, donation, or otherwise for reward, for the purposes of placing or erecting on the land temporary living places for occupation, by two or more families or parties (whether consisting of one or more persons) living independently of each other, whether or not such families or parties enjoy the use in common of entrances, water supplies, cookhouses, sanitary fixtures, or other premises and equipment.
Commercial service activity means activities engaged in sales to businesses and institutional customers and may also include sales to the general public, and consists of suppliers of goods in one or more of the following areas: • vehicle and marine sales and service/repair; • hire services; • farming and agricultural suppliers; • trade suppliers; • building suppliers; • landscape suppliers; • garden centres; • service stations; and/or • office furniture, equipment and system suppliers.
Draft District Plan 139 Community activity means facilities for the well-being of the community generally on a not for profit basis, e.g. arts and cultural centres, places of worship, community centres, halls and libraries, but excludes entertainment and hospitality activities, schools, sports and recreation activities, and medical and health activities.
Education activity means land and/or buildings used to provide regular instruction or training and includes early childhood centres, e.g. crèche, child care, pre-schools, kindergartens and Kohanga Reo, schools, tertiary education institutions, works skills training centres, outdoor education centres and sports training establishments. It includes hostels associated with a secondary school. It does not include homebased childcare services.
Energy activity means: • renewable electricity generation activities; and/or • oil and gas activities, including petroleum prospecting, petroleum exploration and petroleum production).
Farming means rural land use activities where the primary purpose is to produce livestock, crops and other agricultural produce that relies on the productive capacity of land, and includes agriculture, pastoral farming, dairying and horticulture. For the avoidance of doubt, this includes: • ancillary activities, including the storage of products and initial processing of horticultural and agricultural products produced on site; • the storage and disposal of solid and liquid animal waste; • greenhouses/glass houses with a permeable floor and where the soil profile is maintained; and • wood lots up to 5 ha in area.
Hazardous facility means all activities and sites involving hazardous substances, including vehicles for their transport, at which these substances are used, stored, or handled. Hazardous facility does not include: • storage or use of hazardous substances for private domestic purposes; • retail outlets for the domestic usage and sale of hazardous substances including supermarkets, hardware shops and pharmacies; • facilities using genetically modified or new organisms; • trade waste, sewer and waste treatment or disposal facilities; • hydrocrabon pipelines; • fuel in motor vehicles, boats and small domestic engines; • storage and use of hazardous substances in association with any temporary military training activity, in compliance with the code of practice developed as Defence Force Orders, through the Defence Act 1990; • transportation of hazardous substances associated with seismic surveys; • transportation of hazardous substances in certified tank wagons and transportable containers; • agrichemical use, storage and transportation where these activities are carried out in compliance with the NZS 8409:2004 Management of Agrichemicals; and • storage and processing of milk on farms provided any spillage is contained within the site and prevented from entering a waterbody, or from seeping into groundwater.
140 New Plymouth District Council Home occupation means the use of a residential house for an occupation, business, trade or profession that is secondary and incidental to the use of that site for a residential activity. It includes, but is not limited to, bed and breakfast accommodation/homestays and home based child care.
Industrial activity means the use of land or premises for the purpose of manufacturing, fabricating, processing, conversion, repair, packaging, recycling, storage, collection, or distribution of goods; and includes the wholesale or retail sale of goods manufactured on the site.
Infill house means a site already containing one residential house, where a second residential house is constructed outside of the footprint of the existing house, i.e. the site coverage will increase as a result of the proposed infill house. In relation to a vacant site, the proposed development results in two houses, the house nominated by the applicant.
Integrated retail activity means a building or development which comprises multiple retail activities, e.g. a shopping mall, that are operated and/or managed as a single entity (regardless of whether or not they are located on separate legal titles), and that share one or more of the following: • servicing and/or loading facilities; • vehicle and/or pedestrian access; • car parking; and • public spaces and/or facilities.
Intensive farming means any pastoral, horticultural, aquaculture or similar agricultural activity within a building or structure or on animal feed lots with limited or no dependence on natural soil quality on the site and/or which require food to be brought to the site. Includes: • intensive pig farming; • intensive poultry farming; • poultry hatcheries; • poultry rearer farms; and • animal feedlots. Excludes: • horticulture undertaken in greenhouses; and • shearing sheds and dairy milking sheds.
means any individual retail activity within a building exceeding Large format retail activity 450m2 gross floor area.
Living activity means: • residential activities; • infill houses; • residential flats; • multi-unit developments; • marae; • papakainga developments; • retirement villages;
Draft District Plan 141 • boarding houses; and • supported residential care.
Major hazardous facility means any facility which involves one or more of the following activities: • manufacturing and associated storage of hazardous substances, including manufacture of agrichemicals, fertilisers, acids/alkalis or paints; • petroleum exploration and petroleum production (except where the Health and Safety in Employment (Petroleum Exploration and Extraction) Regulations 2013, Health and Safety at Work (Petroleum Exploration and Extraction) Regulations 2015, Health and Safety in Employment (Mining Operations) Regulations 2013 would apply); • the storage/use of more than 100,000L of petrol; • the storage/use of more than 50,000L of diesel; • the storage/use of more than 6 tonnes of LPG; • galvanising plants; • electroplating and metal treatment; • Tanneries; • timber treatment; • freezing works and rendering plants; • wastewater treatment plants; • metal smelting and refining (including battery refining or recycling); • milk processing plants (except where milk processing plant is specifically designed to contain and store milk so that any reasonably potential spillage of milk is contained within the site of the plant until it can be disposed of to an approved wastewater system); • fibreglass manufacturing; • polymer foam manufacturing; • asphalt/bitumen manufacture or storage; • landfills; and • refrigerated food processing sites/warehouses.
Mäori purpose activity means a range of Mäori cultural, community and living activities that incorporate Mäori customs and values and provide opportunities for Mäori social, cultural, environmental and economic well-being including, but not limited to: • marae; • papakainga housing; • customary activities; • ancillary commercial activities; • home occupation; • community activities; • hui; • tangi; • Kohanga reo or kura (schools); • whare karakia (Mäori church); and • urupa.
142 New Plymouth District Council Marae means facilities used for the provision of a focal point for social, cultural, and economic activity for Māori and the wider community.
Matauranga Mäori means the term as defined in the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement (2010).
Multi-unit development means any development that will result in three or more residential houses on any site in the residential and medium density residential zones.
Oil and gas activity means: • petroleum prospecting; • petroleum exploration; and • petroleum production.
Papakainga housing means a comprehensive residential development for tangata whenua residing in the New Plymouth District to provide residential accommodation for members of iwi or hapū groups, and also includes communal buildings and facilities.
Petroleum exploration means any activity undertaken for the purpose of identifying petroleum deposits or occurrences and evaluating the feasibility of mining particular deposits or occurrences of one or more petroleum substances, and includes any drilling, dredging, use of explosives, excavations (whether surface or sub-surface), hydrocarbon testing, initial production and associated site development activities that are reasonably necessary to determine the nature and size of a mineral deposit or occurrence. Excludes: • petroleum prospecting; and • petroleum production.
Petroleum production means any activity undertaken for the purpose of taking, wining or extracting a mineral (or chemical substance from a mineral), existing in its natural state, and includes: • treating, processing, storing and/or separating petroleum substances into a usable product; and • the construction, maintenance, and operation of any works, structures, and other land improvements or modifications for the purposes of production. Excludes: • petroleum prospecting; and • petroleum exploration.
Petroleum prospecting means any activity, and the use of associated equipment, undertaken for the purpose of identifying locations likely to contain useable energy resources, and includes: • geological, geochemical, and geophysical surveys; • the taking of samples by hand or hand held methods; and • aerial surveys. Excludes: • the use of explosives.
Renewable electricity generation activity has the same meaning as defined in the National Policy Statement for Renewable Electricity Generation (2011).
Draft District Plan 143 Residential activity means the use of premises for living purposes and any domestic or related purpose by persons living alone or in family and/or non-family groups (whether any person is subject to care, supervision or not).
Residential flat means buildings under 70m2 built on site and/or relocated buildings; prefabricated transportable or movable buildings built off-site to be located for a 12 month period or more. This definition includes, but is not limited to portable cabins and trailer homes.
Residential house means premises containing a detached (or semi-detached) residential building(s), or groups of residential buildings, each designed for or occupied exclusively as one household unit and used for residential activities.
Retail activity means activities where the primary business is displaying or offering services or goods for the sale or hire to trade or the public and includes, but is not limited to: • commercial activity; • clothing, footwear and personal accessory retailing; • antique and used goods, second hand or charity shops; • food and beverage sales (e.g. restaurants, cafes and takeaway food bars); • department stores and malls (e.g. an individual retailer or collection of retailers); • dairies; • entertainment and hospitality activities, e.g. cinemas, bar and nightclubs, taverns, restaurants, cafes, theatres, concert venues, privately owned indoor fitness centres/gymnasiums/play areas, multi-sports facilities and conference facilities); and • markets.
Retirement village means old people’s homes, rest homes, pensioner housing developments, retirement villages and associated ancillary facilities such as medical, respite care, recreational and other communal facilities which offer an exclusive service to short- term and permanent residents occupying the retirement villages.
Rural activity means rural land use and includes, but is not limited to: • domestic animal boarding and breeding; • farming; • forestry; • grazing; • farm quarries; • stock sale yards; and • rural research.
Rural industry means an industrial activity that manufactures, processes or transports the raw materials of farming, factory farming, forestry or mining activities, including, but not limited to: • petroleum exploration; • petroleum production; • petroleum prospecting; • intensive farming; • sawmills;
144 New Plymouth District Council • timber treatment plants; • firewood operations, which process timber grown on a separate property; • rural transport depots; • agricultural contractors depots; • primary processing and packaging of farm produce; • commercial quarrying and mining; and • the processing of minerals and quarry products.
Sensitive activity means: • living activities; • education activities; • community activities; and/or • visitor accommodation.
Sport and recreation activity means the use of land and buildings for organised sport, recreation activities, tournaments and sports education, e.g. parks, playgrounds, sportsgrounds, swimming pools, stadia and multi-sports facilities.
Supermarket means a retail shop selling a wide range of foodstuffs for consumption off-site, including fresh produce, meat, fish and dairy; chilled, frozen, packaged, canned and bottled foodstuffs and beverages; non-food grocery items and household goods including cooking, cleaning and washing products, kitchenwares and toiletries, where foodstuffs comprise more than 90 per cent of the total retail floor space. Includes discount stores, hypermarkets, and warehouse club stores where foodstuffs comprise more than 90 per cent of the total retail floor space.
Supported residential care means the use of a residential house(s) and site(s) where people live together and receive care or wellbeing respite support on a 24 hour basis to assist with independent living. This definition does not include regular and ongoing home- based care and assistance to a dependent person.
Third party signs means signs unrelated to or not associated with services, products or events available or occurring on the site on which the sign is located, except where specifically provided for as a permitted activity for a temporary sign or traffic sign.
Tikanga Mäori means the term as defined in the Regional Policy Statement for Taranaki (2010)
Visitor Accommodation means backpackers, holiday flats, hostels, motels, hotels rooms, motor and tourist lodges and other forms of travellers’ accommodation. It does not include bed and breakfast/homestay accommodation or a hostel associated with education activities.
Draft District Plan 145
146 New Plymouth District Council
Draft District Plan 147 Appendix One: Proposed Future Urban Growth Areas (30 years)
SMART ROAD
148 New Plymouth District Council Appendix Two: Proposed City Centre Zones (Inner and Outer Areas) and Commercial Service Zone
Draft District Plan 149
1 ITEM B
MARTON TO NEW PLYMOUTH RAIL CORRIDOR ACCESS AT CALVERT ROAD PREPARED BY: Liz Beck (Integrated Transportation Coordinator) TEAM: Transportation APPROVED BY: David Langford (Infrastructure Manager) WARD/COMMUNITY: New Plymouth DATE: 28 September 2016 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 7244728
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is the proposed safety improvement to the Marton to New Plymouth rail corridor at the end of Calvert Road.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report:
a) Fencing is installed to prevent access to the Marton to New Plymouth rail corridor at Calvert Road until such a time that a formal level crossing is constructed. b) A change to the 2017/18 Annual Plan is made to allocate funding for the design and construction of a suitable level crossing facility, including an application for a Deed of Grant from KiwiRail.
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is of some importance. This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Install fencing to stop access from Calvert Road onto the Marton to New Plymouth rail corridor.
2. Install fencing to stop access from Calvert Road onto the Marton to New Plymouth rail corridor this financial year. Then make a 2017/18 Annual Plan change and apply for a deed of grant from Options KiwiRail and construct a level crossing at the end of Calvert Road. 3. Apply for a Deed of Grant from KiwiRail and construct a pedestrian level crossing at the end of Calvert Road this financial year.
4. Do nothing.
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COMPLIANCE The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are the Affected persons New Plymouth District Community as users of this informal level crossing. Recommendation This report recommends option two for addressing the matter. Long-Term Plan / Option one can be covered by existing budgets, option two is Annual Plan currently not covered in existing budgets. Implications Significant Policy and Plan None identified. Inconsistencies
BACKGROUND Following a fatal incident involving a pedestrian using the Weymouth Street pedestrian crossing in January 2016, a safety audit was carried out at 10 level crossings in New Plymouth as well as several sections of the rail corridor. The audit was completed by staff from both KiwiRail and New Plymouth District Council. A number of recommendations were made by this report, including addressing the routine behaviour of people crossing the rail corridor at Calvert Road where there is no legal level crossing. The audit identified that:
“In general it was thought that the level crossing facilities provided for drivers were good. Driver behaviour also appeared to be acceptable. However the observed level of poor pedestrian and cyclist behaviour, use of recreational headphones and complacency for trains was concerning. The volumes of pedestrians and cyclists using this very popular and successful Coastal Walkway track compounded these concerns.”
The audit recommends formalising a level crossing at Calvert Road. This would include the installation of pedestrian mazes, warning signage and an upgrade to the steep path down to Ocean View Parade and the port area.
A pedestrian counter has been installed at this site since April 2016, and on average 38 people use this location to cross the rail corridor on a daily basis. It is important to note that there are currently two alternative, legal level crossings, one approximately 850m to the West at Bayly Rd and one approximately 1,100m to the East at Belt Rd.
The cost to provide a suitable pedestrian level crossing at Calvert Road is estimated at approximately $70,000. It is important to note that this work would be unsubsidised and would not receive financial assistance from the NZTA.
Construction of a pedestrian level crossing would be contingent on obtaining KiwiRail approval and a corresponding Deed of Grant.
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SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT In accordance with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy, this matter has been assessed as of some importance because there are limited numbers of people affected.
OPTIONS Promotion or Achievement of Community Outcomes This matter is relevant to ‘our community’ community outcomes of the Council vision, providing safe and reliable infrastructure. Currently the informal crossing at Calvert Road has been identified as not being safe and by fencing we will remove the safety risk. There are alternative crossing points nearby at Belt Rd and Bayly Rd.
Statutory Responsibilities This section of the rail corridor has been identified by the audit as being inherently unsafe, leaving our community at risk. The Council has a common law duty of care to ensure a safe environment for community use and to take all reasonable steps to address these safety concerns.
Under the Railways Act 2005, access to the rail corridor without the express authority of the railway owner is an act of trespass. It must be noted that, whilst the unformed section of Calvert Road crosses over the Marton to New Plymouth Railway line, under Section 84 of the Railways Act, any part of a road occupied by a railway line, other than at a level crossing, ceases to be a highway. As such, the common law right for a person to pass and re-pass on a highway is no longer applicable.
Consistency with Policies and Plans This matter is not inconsistent with Council policies or plans. No specific policy addresses this issue, but it is not inconsistent with related polices in regards to health and safety.
Participation by Māori Ngati Te Whiti Hapu have been consulted with over the proposed options of either closure or upgrade of the Calvert Road informal crossing. They would like to see the Calvert Road crossing upgraded. We advised the Hapu, that closing the existing informal crossing does not prevent it from being upgraded in the future.
Community Views and Preferences Local residents were advised of the proposed closure and provided opportunity to submit to Council. A total of 141 submissions were received online and a petition signed by 1,600 people.
A summary of the submission is given in the table below: Number of Desired Action Submission Temporarily close the crossing until future funds are 2 available to upgrade the crossing. Allocate funds to upgrade the crossing this financial year 74 Leave the crossing as it is and allow continued access 64 Close the crossing permanently 1
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The petition has requested for the informal crossing to be upgraded to a suitable standard rather than closing. See Appendix A for a copy of the covering letter and additional submissions received.
Option 1 Install fencing to stop access from Calvert Road onto the Marton to New Plymouth rail corridor. a) Financial and Resourcing Implications To fence the rail corridor at Calvert Road has been estimated at a cost of $3,000 - $4,000. This work can be covered by existing operational budgets. b) Risk Analysis Installing fencing is a reasonably practicable step to stop unauthorised access onto the rail corridor and would largely satisfy NPDC’s duty of care to provide safe infrastructure for the public. However, it must be noted that the fencing may be at risk of vandalism, particularly if members of the community are determined to continue to use this location as a rail crossing point. c) Advantages and Disadvantages The advantages of this option is that we are removing a risk that has been identified by both KiwiRail and New Plymouth District Council and making our community safer. This option is also the lowest cost option.
The disadvantages is that we are removing access for the community; however, there are alternative readily accessible and safer options.
Option 2 Apply for a deed of grant from KiwiRail to construct a level crossing at the end of Calvert Road and make a change to the 2017/18 Annual Plan. Install fencing to stop access from Calvert Road onto the Marton to New Plymouth rail corridor this financial year. a) Financial and Resourcing Implications To provide a suitable pedestrian level crossing facility at Calvert Road is estimated at a cost of $70,000. There will also be an ongoing operational expenditure associated with the required deed of grant with KiwiRail.
The upgrade of the Calvert Road informal crossing is not covered by existing budgets and would need to be approved in the next Annual or Long Term Plan. It is important to note that this work would be unsubsidised and would not attract any financial assistance from the NZTA. b) Risk Analysis Providing a suitable crossing facility at Calvert Road would reduce the Health & Safety risk members of the public are currently exposed to by crossing the rail corridor without such facilities. However, it must be noted that a pedestrian maze crossing provides one of the lowest levels of protection for users, compared with crossings that have automatic barrier arms or flashing bells and lights.
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With this option, construction of the new crossing facility will not commence until the 2017/18 financial year. In the meantime, fencing will be provided to restrict access onto the railway line. It is likely that members of the community will continue to use this location as a crossing point during this time and will be at continued risk of serious or fatal injury. c) Advantages and Disadvantages The advantages of this option is that we are upgrading a facility that has been identified by both KiwiRail and New Plymouth District Council and making our community safer. This option will also have a greater cost to New Plymouth ratepayers.
Option 3 Apply for a Deed of Grant from KiwiRail and construct a pedestrian level crossing at the end of Calvert Road this financial year. a) Financial and Resourcing Implications To provide a suitable pedestrian level crossing facility at Calvert Road is estimated at a cost of $70,000. There will also be an ongoing operational expenditure associated with the required deed of grant with KiwiRail.
The upgrade of the Calvert Road informal crossing is not covered by existing budgets but could be funded from the 2015/16 operational surplus. It is important to note that this work would be unsubsidised and would not attract any financial assistance from the NZTA. b) Risk Analysis Providing a suitable crossing facility at Calvert Road would reduce the Health & Safety risk members of the public are currently exposed to by crossing the rail corridor without such facilities. However, it must be noted that a pedestrian maze crossing provides one of the lowest levels of protection for users, compared with crossings that have automatic barrier arms or flashing bells and lights. c) Advantages and Disadvantages The advantages of this option is that we are upgrading a facility that has been identified by both KiwiRail and New Plymouth District Council and making our community safer.
With this option, subject to KiwiRail approval, construction of the new crossing facility can begin relatively quickly, minimising the amount of time the crossing is not available for use by the public.
This option will also have a greater cost to New Plymouth ratepayers.
Option 4 Do nothing. a) Financial and Resourcing Implications There are no additional financial obligations.
Council Friday 7 October 2016 6 ITEM B b) Risk Analysis Doing nothing could result in serious injury or fatality. In such an instance, it could be determined that not all practicable steps had been taken to ensure the safe design of our infrastructure and that this was a major contributing factor in the event occurring.
Given that this issue has now been drawn to the Council’s attention by KiwiRail, doing nothing could be viewed as negligence and New Plymouth District Council could be liable by common law. c) Advantages and Disadvantages The advantages of this option is that it has no cost associated with it. The disadvantage is that we are not taking all reasonably practicable steps to address an identified safety concern that will directly affect our community.
Recommended Option This report recommends option two for addressing the matter.
APPENDICES Appendix A Covering letter with petition and other submission received Appendix B Online submissions received
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Appendix A Covering letter with petition and other submission received
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Council Friday 7 October 2016 Appendix B
Address My feedback is that: First Name Last Name Address 1 Address 2 I am a keen supporter of keeping the crossing at the end of Calvert Road. The steps and the crossing was the end of my walk twice weekly - is great to finish a walk, which is taking in lots of steep streets around the Lynmouth area/seaview/Westown/Belt road/ending with the steps up to Calvert Road. We use the cutting to take the grandchildren, both preschoolers for a walk to look at what is happening in the port - we would sit on the seat and enjoy the view. They are yet to see a train pass-by when we are sitting there. Plus it is a quick stroll down to the seaside market/the bach etc. We find that when there is an event down at the beach/port a large number of people park in the area and walk down thru this crossing. I know that at least one school has used the crossing when returning from trips to the beach. Please look at bringing back our cutting. It has been used by locals for many, many years and Linda Leighton 33 Birdwood Ave New Plymouth should be available to enjoy in the future.
There is an element of danger coming off Calvert Road that could be overcome by moving the current fence towards the end of the cutting with a hinged swing gate that has to be pulled towards you before you move towrds the line. This gate with self closing hinge would prevent small children running onto the line and with appropriate signage should ensure a good look by anyone wanting to progress. It does not need an engineering design process and would not be expensive. The cost would not exceed $3000.00 and if the Council has not got this amount of funding to keep a very popular and much used walkway open, it is a very sad state of affairs.The dirt walkway is fine, we do not need a flash upgrade-it has been used for as long as I have lived in the area without any reported accident that I am aware off. There was an unfortunate accident at a crossing recently that had all the safety installations including flashing lights and bells. You will never stop accidents that involve human stupidity and the solution suggested above is simple and cost effective. There is not the same need for fencing on the other side as coming up the hill there is a clear view of the line from both directions but the same fencing and gate system coulkd be installed if deemed necessary.Closing the crossing with a fence that will be hopefully replaced at some future date seems a complete Warwick Williams 9A Calvert Road New Plymouth waste of money. This is an important access way to the coastal walk way-please do not close it Good Morning, I would like to point out several facts about the crossing, firstly that it is the only pedestrian link to the waterfront from Belt Road to Baily Road and therefore is used extensively. Another factor is that there are a lot of older folk who walk to the Calvert Road crossing and sit and watch over the port either before venturing down to the waterfront extending their walk or visiting the cafe's. I hope that the council can find the funds to upgrade this Graeme Francis 30A Birdwood Ave New Plymouth crossing. Thanks Graeme Francis I live right next to the crossing and see many people walking through.It would be a pleasure to see it remain open for the enjoyment of people doing something at no expense. The view from the seat provided there is an absolute delight, and the pleasure of many conversations there with people who Jean Gaustad Unit 1/4 Calvert Road New Plymouth come through. This crossing shouldnt be closed as it is a fantastic way to get down to the port and rhe walkway itself. It should instead be brought up to the safety Korey White 7 Whiteley St standards and kept for those who use it
My mother lives right beside the railway crossing on Calvert Road and I visit her all the time. I support keeping the crossing open as it does get a lot of use (I see people walking out there when I am at my mother's). I know that the crossing enhances my mother and her neighbours' quality of life. They are all elderly people who use the crossing to walk down to the breakwater or along to Ngamotu Beach, or to the local cafes for a cup of tea/coffee. The access is very handy for them. The seat beside the railway is a lovely place to sit and enjoy the panoramic view. I have used it myself and I know my mother uses it Marlene Beck 482 Barrett Road New Plymouth almost daily. She really enjoys chatting to the people who come up or down the track which also enhances her quality of life. Erect a permanent barrier fence to stop anyone crossing, until such time as Council can afford to place a permanent & safe crossing for public in conjunction with the formation of proper steps down to Oceanview Parade below. Even this will not prevent idiots walking onto Railway tracks whist Tony BILBE 35 Birdwood Avenue texting/talking on Mobile phone. This walkway is very well used and is convenient for people in this area to access Ocean View Parade and the shops and restaurants etc along there.No one can remember this crossing having a problem even though there was a lot more trains in the past than there are now .An upgrade in the future would be Leon Waite 2 Calvert Road Moturoa great but leave it alone until that is imminent Watch for Trains sign would be good Regards L.D Waite We have been using this crossing for 30 plus years and in all this time are not aware of any incidents involving this crossing. The steps have been kept clear by residents. This crossing is used by all ages and many visitors in the area. And as history shows even having all the bells and safe guards does not Pat James 4a Roy Terrace make crossings any safer. I think that shouldn't close the crossing. Its been there for more than 80 years. Its part of New Plymouth history. The people of new Plymouth has many Mercedes Vega 36 Roy Terrace memories of that crossing.
The crossing from Calvert Rd down to the Coastal walkway is used daily by many people. Elderly residents in the area can recall getting down to the water as children using this path .After many years of use this access has been seen as a natural right of way. The nearest access point to the breakwater businesses and Coastal walkway is either from Belt Rd ( a good 10 minute walk ) or along To Bayly Rd and Ocean View Parade taking at least 20 mins. All Jenny Shackleton 44A Whiteley St Moturoa that is needed is mazes and clear signage on opposite sides of the rail tracks, as has already been done on all other crossings on the walkway. I regard this crossing as an integral part of the NP District Walkways, and because of the high use it attracts, it deserves to be upgraded. It is historic, one of the first walkways in the City, and serves a useful purpose for the residents of Moturoa. The railway crossing may or may not need improving, there is excellant vision for walkers, both east and west along the railtracks, but the most needy improvement would be metal resurfacing of the steps, and the provision of a pipe handrail on one side of the steps.The bench seat at the top is a well used observation post, and the like of it could usefully be placed on the promontory lawn, at the end of Belt Road, overlooking the walkway and the sea. Already your temporary fence has been neatly stacked aside, so that the many users can use the path, while you consider how best you can enhance this well used walkway.It would be tradgedy if this was permanently Robin G Cathie 42 Whiteley Street Moturoa closed. This crossing provides access to the waterfront/beaches/walkway/cafes for a huge population area. As there is no other in the vicinity I submit that this site Marie Wellington 52a Whiteley Street Moturoa New Plymouth should be upgraded to a formal safe crossing. I understand that the NPDC has to be seen to be taking all practicable steps to ensure safety around these crossings. I also understand that it is expensive to install the paving and markings, as per Bayley road e.g. However, I would be very disappointed to see the long term closure of the crossing as in my experience it has fairly frequent use. I personally use it a lot as part of my walking work out, going up and down the stairs several times for a good huff and puff. If the crossing is fenced off at railway level, that's not a big loss for me - but I see people who live nearby use it to drop down to Port View Road and on Ken Davies 1/5 Rainsford Street Moturoa to the foreshore walkway as part of the commute to the CBD or beyond. Overall, I think it will be a loss if closed permanently. I am truly distressed that a crossing that has such high usage would suddenly be considered for closure. This crossing may be unofficial but I know as a local in the area that the usage is extremely high and therefore I believe the crossing should be upgraded. During sports events (of which you will aware there are a number in this area) this track provides an alternative access to both the cycling and running parts of the events - . It enables supporters to transfer quickly to view both disciplines particularly when both Bayly and Belt roads are closed to traffic. I urgently request that you reject any ideas of Susan Maitland 16A Roy Terrace closure and upgrade what is a significant access pedestrian route My family and I have lived in Whiteley Street for many years, there are not many days that we do not use the rail walkway crossing at the end of Calvert road. It would be extremely disappointing to see a fence erected at this location. I doubt a fence would stop locals from accessing that area and would probably make the crossing more dangerous. I see many people young and old use this access. The trains are usually regular and because of the steps heading down the hill most people are aware of the surroundings and train movement. I would support the installation of a more appropriate crossing at this Steve Smith 10 Whiteley Street Moturoa location. Totally opposed to closure of this access to the coastal walk way and port. The blocking of this not only denies the countless people who use it but will also prevent the many elderly resident of the area who enjoy sitting on the bench seat situated along side the railway line. With this crossing closed there is no other pedestrian access within easy walking distant for local residents. I would suggest that instead of closing the crossing that it be upgraded and better Michael Corry 13 Roy Terrace. New Plymouth access be provided.
on behalf of St Joseph's School, New plymouth: We would strongly urge that a pedestrian access is maintained at the end of Calvert Rd, across the railway lines. We regularly use this access for school trips, walks etc to the walkway and Ngamotu Beach. We will also use this access way to attend Powhiri, events and happenings at the new Ngati Te Whiti Marae. The visibility along the railway lines is excellent at this location and we would strongly Michael Dowd 41a Calvert Rd New Plymouth urge those concerned to create a safe crossing in this area. Thanks Mike Dowd Principal St Joseph's School New Plymouth I think this should be made into a proper railway crossing as in the summer my family and I don't se it to get to the cafes and also my sons school likes Elizabeth Chandler going on walks to the beach and it's the quickest way to go. Melissa Douglas 43 Seaview Rd Marfell New Plymouth We use this crossing all the time and will be sad and disappointed to see it go Melissa Douglas 43 Seaview Rd Marfell New Plymouth We use this crossing all the time and will be sad and disappointed to see it go I am completely opposed to the idea of closing or limiting access across this area. It has been used safely by many users for a very long period of time with no incidents that I am aware of. Due to its location it is largely used by locals who are fully aware of the safety issues. Increased safety signage would be Paul Wilkinson 11 French Street Moturoa welcome. The railway crossing at the end of Calvert Road must stay open and in fact be upgraded as this is an important walking link between Calvert Road, St Joseph's School and local residents and Breakwater Bay, the Lee Breakwater and the marae to be built on the Ngamotu reserve area. Loads of people Teresa Bowe 2 Belt Road New Plymouth 4310 use this area and having access to our waterfront and our public spaces is important. Keep this open!!! Marshal Joseph 2/203 Ngamotu Road Spotswood New Plymouth I request you to upgrade it into a formal,safe crossing.
As a teacher at St Joseph's School New Plymouth I would like to see the railway crossing at the end of Calvert Road remain open. I would like to see a safe access way developed and maintained. As a school community we see potential in creating a safe crossing so as we continue to allow our children to Megan Hills explore our surroundings and we see the access way as an opportunity to build links with the new Marae which is being built near Ngamotu Beach. I use this crossing on a daily basis to access the walkway for my daily walk and to visit the fishing club, and local business down on the waterfront during the weekends for entertainnment, It is a safe crossing and have never encountered any trains on any of my journeys, Although i do look very carefully like you would on any railway crossing, when using this crossing. It certainly does need an upgrade if you can spend money on other parts of the walkway then why not this section, it is a very important access to the breakwater business area for those walking who cannot drive, not only for the elderly but also families.When we have visitors we always walk through here to save drinking and driving. I am sure you could get the PD boys to upgrade it once you got Gary O'Keeffe 14 Rainsford Street Moturoa en engineers approval.Many Thanks Alisi VULUMA 14 Calver Road 711239, I would like it to upgraded to a formal, safe crossing.We use it a lot on Ou morning and evening walks. My husband and I are regular walkers in the mornings and have been using the Calvert Road access route to and from the Walkway. Having access at the Colleen Baird 32 Whiteley Street Moturoa, New Plymouth end of Calvert Road is hugely appreciated by a huge number of people and we can't imagine it not being available. I walk my dog down to the break water on a regular basis and have crossed this track many times. The are also many other spots where I can cross the track that aren't fenced and I find this ridiculous to ban this part of the track. I could just walk to the end of my garden and cross there. Please don't block this Jody Neville-Lamb 22a Whiteley Street Moturoa off for local users. The crossing should be left open, as it is access to the walkway from people who live in that area. Visibility is good, as you can see trains coming from either Margaret Lister 5c Marina Grove New Plymouth direction. I am extremely dissapionted that the Council is considering closing the Calvert Rd access to the Waterfront. I use this about 5 times each week. It is the only access point between Bayley & Belt Rds and has been in use for many years.People take great care when crossing the railway line, there is clear vision both left & right, the steps are a bit tricky for the many that use them and need a bit of work and there is frequently someone sitting on the seat at the top enjoying the view. The accessway is used extensively by many people on a regular basis, to remove it completely will compromise our lifestyle. I ask Lynda Webb 15A Whiteley Street,Moturoa that the Council upgrade the site to a formal crossing and put a very strong case to KiwiRail for approval. Terry Hancock 456 St Aubyn Street New Plymouth Keep open and upgrade to a formal safe crossing. I find it very disappointing that the ability of users of this crossing to be safe is in doubt. Crossing a busy street is a far less safe action. It is a very Carolyn Robertha Smith 424B Devon St West New Plymouth frequently used accessway to the Breakwater, I use it up to five times a week. Please do not restrict access. I have been a user of this access since 1974 and consider public access to the beaches to be a privilege that must be shared with all and the Calvert road access is no exception. We see more and more restrictions on pedestrians in public areas and cannot see how closing this can be a benefit to the community. The entire length of the train tracks is not fenced, even the level crossings can be breached if someone chooses to do this so a barrier or exclusion is not the answer. Why not just improve signage, clear the area for better viewing and encourage everyone to be vigilant rather than telling them to go and find another way of crossing. Come on council, have the spine to stand up and be counted, we must all take responsibility for our actions. Russell Prout 23 Roy Terrace New Plymouth Russell.
I would like to see the track at the end of Calvert Road stay open. In my profession of Health & Safety we always carry out risk assessments where we feel there is a risk to our people. For the rail crossing at the end of Calvert Road my research has not revealed any instances of harm to any members of the public, this results in a low risk score for this crossing. Did the audit which was carried out by NZ Rail mention a risk score for this crossing? If a fence is erected this will increase the risk to the public using this crossing due to the amount of time walking back along the railway line after walking around the fence which they will do. I am almost 60 years of age and use this walkway regularly when accessing the walkway on my daily walks and when visiting the New Plymouth Sports fishing Club which We are members. I would support a regular users working bee to maintain the track and I'm sure other users Laurie Tayor 50 Calvert Road Lynmouth would also support this initiative. Thank you for this opportunity to provide this feedback. Laurie Taylor Ratepayer Megan Sommerville 15 French Street New Plymouth We should keep these crossings. People need to look both ways before crossing rather than just taking these out.
We use this crossing on a daily basis (my husband and I) aliking our dogs, exercising ourselves, the steps are great for heart health, also for accessing the fishing club/gusto/manous/ walkway/ breakwater/ ngamotu beach. This would be very sad! Another great unique track that will be gone! Part of New Plymouth history, surely a safety "z" barrier could be erected similar to other cities, we never see childremn walking through there alone, so it is an adult Maree Kissick 19 Seaview Road, New Plymouth domain so surely common sense should be allowed?????????? Do we start a community fundraiser to pay for wooden safety rails? Joy McLachlan 36 Somerset Street New Plymouth Please leave this access tack alone! Very pleasant enjoyable way to reach lee breakwater. My Grandies and I often use this path. My family and I have used this track for over 20 years for access down to the breakwater. You always run into people walking up or down and itd be such a Nikki Lane 11 Oranga Street shame not to have it. This rail crossing should be maintained as it is widely used and provides good access to the businesses at breakwater bay as well as a pleasant route for a Chris Hill 26 Cowling Rd New Plymouth walk.
This access needs to stay please. I often access the coastal walkway from home here. It is very open and if we all use common sense is as safe as any other access over a railway line. We should not be limited to having to hop in a car to get to what is deemed a safer point of access. Defeats the purpose. Joanne Mack 42b Calvert Road New Plymouth Don't let one incident outshine the many many safe uses each day. Soon we will be sitting inside and avatars walking the world for us! I would like to see this crossing point retained. My household frequently use this to access the public beach at Ngamotu and attend the seaside market, as well as access the businesses near the breakwater, such as the Bach, Gusto, Manou's. Surely improved fencing and signage could be implemented to bring this crossing up to standard? I am not sure what the standard is, but surely it cannot be that expensive to put in fencing and signage similar to the entrance to the coastal walkway at the end of Cutfield Road, the pedestrian entrance to the Kawaroa swimming baths or where the coastal walkway crosses the railway line between the swimming baths and the wind wand? I am wondering if it is the path down to breakwater road which is the real concern as there are stairs with no handrail and vegetation maintenance required? In this case, maybe signage before the rail crossing advising that the Suzanne Doran 385C Devon Street West Lynmouth path is not suitable for certain users would be adequate? The Calvert Road rail crossing shouldnt be closed. I use that track at least 2-3 a week and its very convenient to get to the foreshore without going right around. I always meet people going up or down the track on my travels and Im not sure if you the New Plymouth council are awear of how many people use Lynsay Waller 42a Calvert Road Lynmouth it.
Our whole family of four really values the walkway at the end of Calvert Rd which takes us down to the Breakwater Bay, the walkway and Ngamotu beach. We use it most days to get healthy exercise and to look at the views from beside the railway track. It seems to me that trains only use the track 2 or maybe 3 times a day and if someone is under the influence or intent on harming themselves they will probably find a way to do that regardless of the fence stopping our access. There are lots of places that you can access the railway, Belt Rd, down by the old cold stores opposite Peace Ave, all along the walkway in fact. You are not cutting those off so why spoil the resident's favourite place to observe a sunset, look at the ships, and walk to the water. You have to think about the potential healthy benefits of that access to the beach and the view and put them into the equation of potential risk / potential benefits. I know an elderly man who used to be a ships engineer who walks to the spot with the seat and looks out at the sea every morning early. My grandfather used to do Patricia Holdem 26 Whiteley St Motorola, New Plymouth the same. What about the risk to our health from missing our daily walk and daily meditation from our special place. Think again NPDC. Like many people in the area my family and I are greatly disappointed in the closure of this view point and our main access to the port area.This convenient access area has being used for donkeys years without any incident that iam aware of, however with the current accidents at official crossing sites I know the health and safety machine cannot be stopped.I also would like to ask how far the leaflet drop area was concerning this issue as I live one street away and no more than two minutes walk to the crossing and unless the leaflet got lost in transit I did not receive one and only know of this issue from a neighbour who photocopied the letter.How many other affected residents are unaware.So after that being said I would like to put my support towards the Calvert Rd access be upgraded to allow us a great kiwi short cut through bamboo laden path and not end up like other places in the world stuck to foot paths and busy Greig Cleland 412 St Aubyn St Lynmouth roads. Yours sincerely Greig Cleland Kia ora, I would strongly support this and other crossings remaining open and available. It provides simple walking access to the foreshore, coastal walkway etc for locals, and visitors (which I often am, as I have whanau living in the area. I suspect 'closing' a crossing point may be seen as being required for safety reasons ... but i believe that in fact it is universal education to maintain safety in all settings that would be more important. It is a bit reactionary, almost patronising, to say that an external rule will keep you safe [we'll close the crossing down] rather than teaching children - and reminding adults - of the safety measures for how to safely cross railway lines (just as roads) in all settings - as walkers, cyclists or car drivers. And that we have some personal responsibility to follow those safety principles. If there is concern that people are distracted and dont pay heed - at all of the pedestrian and cycle crossings - then the next step would be to introduce simple arm barriers which have to be lifted or moved, thus making the person to pay heed to the setting. I believe that closing down a well established crossing will simply lead to the creation of informal crossings, which is more unsafe. It is not the actual crossing itself that it is the safety issue, it is understanding the principles of how to always cross safely. So I believe that this well established community rail crossing at Tricia Thompson 76 Clemow Road Fitzroy Cowling road for pedestrians should remain open. Sincerely Tricia Thompson Colin Tapsell 193c Ngamotu Road NP 4310 The crossing Must be kept Open, if that means an upgrade- Will so be it. I do not support the closure of the Calvert Rd rail crossing access way. After decades of this access way being available to the community what gives the council right to deem it unsafe. Yet another example of the council claiming no funding available. However if Len Lye where to sit at this place of community Tania Russell 10 Whiteley Street Moturoa New Plymouth significance there would be money available. *It is used a lot more than the port authorities or the NPDC realises. *I use it at least 3 or 4 times a week as part of a fitness routine. Sure beats doing step ups on my front or back doorstep!! Or, pounding a treadmill in the gym.It gets this 75 year old out and about on a circuit I can walk in the rain, hail or any inclement weather. Isn't this what the health gurus are pushing. *It provides access to a part of the walkway the council spent a lot on developing. *It provides walking access to businesses when at times parking is at a premium. *If it is essential to upgrade to an official crossing I'm all for spending on it Rosalie Rangi 1 B French Street New Plymouth and the sooner the better.
just a quick comment that i reckoned that the council shouldn't close this railway crossing as its an quick and easy way to assess the breakwater area , assess like calvert road are closed as its already quite an congested place to get to now let alone making more impossible when useful assesses like calvert road are closed then more people will use the main and only road into the area. and i am sure that the costs to fund any safety upgrades can be found through taranaki regional council that owns the port and provides the breakwater area for public to enjoy can see the benefits of this crossing as it Jeremy Hogg 7 Annandale Street helps with the number of cars that would travel increase if this assess was closed. anyway hope this points are of help .
I would like to see this rail crossing left open. We use it often to sit and look at the boats and to get down to the beach and walkway. It has been there for Sandra Jean Weir 26 Bonithon Ave New Plymouth 4310 many years and it is great just the way it is without making it upmarket and safe? I don't believe it is any more dangerous than any other crossing. Karen Birch 62 Bayly Rd Blagdon Closing the crossing is daft. Please keep the Calvert Road 'rail crossing' as it is vital for our community. I have used if for over 30 years on many different occasions. It is great for a quick walk around the block for myself and the kids, as well as for access to the walkway which we use often, especially when we have visitors to NP. We also access the businesses below by using this path. It was disappointing to read that the existing council budget doesn't allow for a safe upgrade at the crossing. I think with the rates the residents from this area of NP pay, money should be set aside to up keep the crossing and path and if need be made Wendy Clough 18 Whiteley Street Moturoa safer, as people from all over use it. I think this is an asset to the entire community and visitors to you beautiful town and would be an epic loss to us all if you shut this down. I vote for this to Louise Murray 41e Kaitake Rd RD4 New Plymouth be upgraded to a formal, safe crossing for future generations and visitors to enjoy. Marie O'Brien 257 Frankley Road New Plymouth Please keep this crossing open - tidy up and make safe
Patricia Masters 58 Bayly Road New Plymouth 4310 The crossing should remain open. To my knowledge there has never been any incident at this crossing that requires change or additional safety measures. I think this track across the railway line should remain open to public as users are very aware to check for trains and is a very handy path to get down to Trina Stanley 42 Gaine St,new Plymouth breakwater bay.. I would like to see it being left open and upgraded to a much safer crossing. I have climbed the steps before and arrived at the top only to have a train rush past me quite suddenly. I didn't hear or see it coming and I am not deaf or blind and I didn't have earphones on. I felt sick at how close I came to stepping out. However I also love the fact it is a connection between lower moturoa and the walkway and I have met tourists from belt road motor camp using it to access the moturoa shops. It also allows access to the restaurants and businesses that are located along the waterfront. We need to keep up access to Julie Harkness 479a St Aubyn Street maintain a water front for our city something which is not fully utilized in my opinion. Frans (Frank) Van Kuyk 65/71 Barrett Rd Whalers Gate New Plymouth The present crossing to be kept open. This not only historic but very regularly used public access route should be tidied up; maintained in a better state and remain a public access route for today; tomorrow and our generations of the future. Councils should encourage and support a community that get off the couch and exercise through walking rather than bottleneck ing them into vegitating at home and forever relying on an overtaxed health care system. The more accesses we have to our Keith Sulzberger 4 Newton Street New Plymouth valuable walk ways the better for our community and the state. Dianne Christensen 10 Culzean Grove Bell Block I wish to forward my feedback to have the original crossing stay. I think closing the access to the foreshore from Calvert road is a mistake. Every suburb along the foreshore has an access way. This suburb does not deserve to miss out on its access. This would mean it is the only suburb unable to provide an accessible way down to the public walkway. Each suburb has its own unique relationship to the foreshore and lynmouth has its beautiful bamboo path and steps. It is the only area able to provide these unique views to the public. People have been using this path for many many years and I don't think public paths and access can justifiably be closed when the public have a right to continue using the environment for enjoyable and non invasive activities. It is a very clear crossing and not much would need to be done to create a Anna Cleland 412 St Aubyn St Lynmouth further awareness to the public to look for trains. This crossing should be upgraded and kept open. I lived at the lower end of Calvert Rd years ago and used this track regularly. The next closest options Paul Hayward 5a Puketotara St Highlands Park are Bailey Rd or Kawaroa, both significant distance from this crossing. Please don't close the railcrossing ,I have a friend that lives close by the crossing we use it quite a lot.I have found no problem with safety due to the good visibility ether way.I have never wanted to use it when a train has been close by,how many trains use it on weekends and how many through the week? John Stewart 45b Parsons St Vogeltown NP Yours sincerely John stewart I would be most annoyed if this was closed. Great for walking down to the walkway or going to the breakwater to view boats coming and going and enjoy looking at the sea. A good round trip to keep myself fit and enjoying the outlook. My grandchildren love going down that way too and it is good exercise Norma Haley 11 Taunton Place New Plymouth walking up and down the steps. I am dismayed to read of your proposal to block this well-used track. I have never found it dangerous to use as there is clear visibility in both directions along the railway track and there is no traffic noise to mask the noise and vibration of an approaching train. How many accidents have there been over the years on this walking route? There are many potentially dangerous places in New Plymouth, indeed in any town, where pedestrian / traffic conflict exists and it is quite unreasonable to make them all risk-free. We have an ever-increasing problem as many pedestrians walk while looking at their screens and motorists are distracted while driving by also looking at their screens. Potential for accidents continues to increase everywhere. I assume your proposal is prompted by the fatality of a pedestrian crossing the rail track near the aquatic centre. One cannot guard against inattention to surroundings. Please avoid John Richardson 86 Wills Road New Plymouth knee-jerk reactions that take away public amenities. I would like to see this crossing of the railway remain open. I have observed it used by many people as a direct route down to the breakwater end of the walkway. I think if the Council deems it unsafe then the money should be spent on ensuring it is to the standard which would deem it a safe crossing. I Lee McCracken would point out that the recent fatality on the railway happened at a supposedly graded safe crossing, with plenty of signage etc. no dont close off the Calvert Road /Ocean View Parade track which leads down to the breakwater businesses and Coastal Walkway. It passes over a paper road, and has been in regular use for at least 80 years. It has often been used by NPTC members on “West End” tramps. I want to be able to cross Judi Lee 439 Wortley Road RD9 Inglewood and walk down the hill to the breakwater. Make it a safe crossing if that is an issue. We need freedom not barriers.
Calvert Rd Rail Crossing: This crossing is widely used & very popular. Our family use it frequently year round. It would be a big loss to many uses & I can see regardless of how well it is barriered off, people are still using it. I'd suggest this will always be the case. Less money would be spent upgrading it than making barriers that don't get removed or walked around by annoyed locals. The alternative access routes are a considerable distance away & people will Simon Lee 24 Bonithon Ave find a short cut that maybe a bigger safety issue than there is at present. It would be a mistake to close this crossing. Stacey Harridge 13a LittleJohn St Hillsborough Leave the track how it is. You'd be amazed how many people use it
This crossing is very useful for not just local residents but also visitors as quick access to the businesses around the marina & onto the walkway. I think the Kirsty Bowman money required to add some safer barriers & enable the crossing to be upgraded would be worth it & I'd be happy to contribute via my rates. Closing of the Calvert road crossing will not improve overall pedestrian safety on this section of rail. The Calvert road crossing is a heavily used path due to its location and lack of alternative along Roy Terrace or Whiteley street. Closure of this crossing will result in use of more unofficial property cut through paths and more unsafe crossings. Safe alternatives at breakwater road are too far away to be used and belt road is essentially a backtrack it is so significantly out of the way. To improve safety please ensure this is appropriately upgraded without being closed. Closure is a knee jerk reaction that does Joseph Healey 38b Whiteley Street, Moturoa New Plymouth not improve safety. Sincerely Joseph Healey. As a shed holder on the lower part of Ocean view Parade, and a member of the New Plymouth Sport fishing Club I would like to forward my strongest objection to the "thought" of even closing off the rail crossing above both of these. The convenience of this crossing over the past 20 years that I have used it has always seen a "safe",and quick access to and from the end of Culvert Road. I also have great pleasure in informing water born visitors into our harbour during the summer of it's presence, which they all appreciate and use. Instead of thinking of "closure" my thoughts are that you as a council Barry Govier 341 South Road Omata, should be conducting a program of "improvements" for the crossing. I am very disappointed to see the closure of Calvert Road by the railway. Why close off a crossing which has been used for many years without any mishaps. I have taken many groups of children across that rail line for many years. You teach the children responsibility to look first before they cross just like you do on the road.An adult always went first to look. Why should it be closed because of one or two irresponsible people who cannot be protected Barbara Scott 21 Skinner St, New Plymouth from everything in life?? Hey You cannot close that pathway, I don't care how many reports etc tell you . It is access to the foreshore Please note this strong objection Regards Brett Boyce 3 Gaine Street Brett
Until 18 months or so back I lived in Whiteley St and was a regular user of the rail crossing and never had any issues with it being an informal crossing. I also never saw anyone behave dangerously, and never heard of any issues. I am now an occasional user. I was extremely surprised to see that barriers had been erected to stop the path being used. While I appreciate that NZ Rail might have concerns I am unaware of there having been any incidents at this crossing. To me it is absurd to say that it needs upgrading to be safe. What creates safety is how people behave, not barriers etc, as was evident with the death of the young man at the crossing with 'pedestrian slowing' railings last year (or was it the year before?). Have any studies been done to determine that an informal crossing like this is less safe than a 'formal' one? If so, could we see these please? If not, leave well alone. No upgrades are needed. The crossing works well for those who use it, and probably contributes to people walking rather than driving as it is such a good shortcut to get to and from the Barbara Hammonds 74 Lorna St Lynmouth, New Plymouth Lee Breakwater and walkway. Surely NPDC wants to encourage people out of their cars and into a more healthy lifestyle not discourage this? Using the line from Calvert Rd used to be fun(20 yrs ago)untill line walking was made illegal.We adjusted!and accepted. The rough steps cut into the bank for which people are fighting, are the most dangerous public access available and could lead to serious accidents. Recently, in Bayly Rd, I saw real terror on an Engine Driver"s face as I stepped forward to take a photograph(I was in no danger and with no stupid intent) but I realised then, the agony a driver must endure, before,during and after an unavoidable Rail accident. The days of casualness are over.Therefore I support the closure of the lower Calvert Rd Margot Cathie 42 Whiteley Street Moturoa, NEW PLYMOUTH Railway access. I have been using this access route for over 30 years I have never witnessed any close shaves with trains v humans and i certainly dont want the track to Don Sinclair 423 Devon Street West Lynmouth New Plymouth be closed sign board it if you must I would be very disappointed if the crossing was to close. I among many others use this access way to the port area. Could you please let me know how many people have been injured or killed using this crossing? I realise you are looking at prevention but believe people are more cautious at this unfenced crossing. Unless you erect a fence which is impenetrable you will probably have more injuries with people trying to get over, around or through it. Where will Troy George 22 Bonithon Ave New Plymouth it end, fence all railway tracks throughout NZ and then look at all water sources! Regards Troy The crossing is a useful route down to shops and water front and gives good access to Ngmotu beach and the Market. It would be good to have this upgraded to a permanent safe crossing for residents and local access. I understand these things cost money and it is not something I would be averse to Dan Bowman 10a French Street Moturoa, New Plymouth 4310 supporting through my rate payments in the future.
Please do not close this crossing. It should be upgraded for safe and continuing use. I believe the value of my property will be impacted negatively as this Blair O'Dowda 53 Calvert Road New Plymouth crossing gives people in our area valued easy access to the coastal walkway. Please upgrade! Kind Regards, Blair O'Dowda
I do not want the crossing closed permanently. My family use it regularly to get to the cafes, fishing club and breakwater. In the summer the seat by the crossing is a lovely place to sit and take in the view. It is also particularly convenient when walking our dog. I find it hard to believe you have the money to erect temporary fencing, in fact I am not sure how you will do that on the track entrance from the Ocean View Parade end, but not enough to put once similar to the Kawaroa/Govett Quillam crossing, which is only concrete and a small amount of fencing. I will be very disappointed if this happens and can see people will take matters into their own hands and climb the fence, which would be more unsafe. You should be encouraging the walkers in the area to Lynn George 22 Bonithon Ave be able to use all existing pathways, and this one is especially convenient for those who live in the area. Thanks Please keep open and upgrade safety. This shortcut is essential for getting to the port efficiently without having to walk on the road. You'll be pushing public Keryn Williams 6 Sawyers Way New Plymouth into walking through belt Rd holiday camp which won't make Theresa very happy Naomi Pettigrew 94 Belt Road New Plymouth I use this crossing on occasion and enjoy it`s availability , and the views from this area , I wood like it to stay open Joanne Morris-George 43d Roto Street New Plymouth This should be upgraded to a formal, safe crossing rather than permanently closed. I am very disappointed in this closeure as this is used by so many people from our area even up as far as Devon st. I use this alot to go to the beach and if it stays closed means we have to go to Belt Rd which is not convenient. I do hope this crossing can be reopened before the summer I have never seen any Valerie King 2/16a Whiteley St danger here. Please reopen it.
As a family we use this access to the port area often, Taking the grand children fishing, to Ngamotu beach and walking to the fishing club. One of the reasons we live in this area and pay very high rates (approx $100.00 per week) is the close proximity to the fishing club, boatramp and the ability to walk to the above areas. Closing this walkway of is going to encourage more vehicles into the area that has high congestion already. This is a step backwards for all of the people that use Calvert road crossing to access the walkway. Closing this will encourage random crossing of the railway by people as the pedestrian crossings of belt road and Bayley road of the Railway are more than 1.5km apart Please spend a proportion of my high rates on modifying this Patrick Adams 26A Birdwood Avenue, Moturoa, New Plymouth 4310 crossing to make it safe for all concerned. I look forward to a sensible solution to this crossing. Pat Adams
Please reconsider closing this beach access. The crossing does need to be upgraded but still accessible to the general public. We have noticed since you have put the temporary closure up more people are actually walking down the railway lines which is way more dangerous. Members of the public use this accessway for taking their children fishing, attending major events in the area, and as an access to the walkway. The walkway has been a major part of Dianne Holdt 6 Roy Terrace Moturoa NP's plans for some time and this is one of the more popular entry points to it for the general public of New Plymouth.
The crossing should be retained. While the 'safe crossing' solution would be great, leaving it relatively as-is is entirely acceptable. It's a great access way to the foreshore and it's lack of formality is part of it's charm So... I say we leave it be and we allow people to take responsibility for their own well-being. Rod Grant 20 Ridge Lane NP NOTE: We are building a new home in close proximity to the access way. So the relevance of this will be even greater for us when our move takes place.
I have used this crossing for many years without the hint of an incident There is very clear extended vision both left and right of the rail track The track to Ocean View parade gives a good access to the boat ramp area and as an older resident saves me a lot of time by not having to go all the way to Moturoa John Sperry 5 Annandale Street Lynmouth 4310 or down Belt road. The seat at the top is a wonderful place to sit and look over our port, please leave well alone and retain this crossing Michelle Lind I use this crossing frequently please upgrade, do not close it. It's a great spot to easily access the walk way.
I believe that the Calvert Road 'cutting' (paper road) should remain open for public access. The outlook from this location overlooking the port area is unique to the city and is an important link bringing the City to the sea. This crossing has been in existence for decades and it is my belief that this crossing is safer than some of the other official crossings due to it's nature and location. The seat located to the east of the pathway is (until the barrack was put in place) regularly used by the elderly generation to view the goings on in the harbour while the track to the north of the railway lines is used by the more able people for access to Ocean View Parade and visa versa. I am a regular user of the Calvert Road 'cutting' as an individual and as an adult leader in a nearby Scout Group as this paper is located centrally between Baily Road and Belt Road (a distance of 1.29km's) As mentioned earlier, the crossing should remain open and available to the general public. Both for people to use the seat and for those more able to use the path down the hill side. The crossing over the rail tracks can be made safer by the installation of pedestrian chicanes either side of the track. There would be no need to make the crossing wheelchair accessible due to the steep path (with steps) on the hill side. By having the rail track raised above the sleepers in itself creates an obstacle that causes people slow down and look for any oncoming trains. The cost of installing a pedestrian chicane (without wheelchair/mobility scooter access) would be Peter Davis 24 Weymouth Street NEW PLYMOUTH minimal. Please keep me informed and updated with the decision process. regards Peter Davis Calvert Road rail crossing user Ngaire Claridge The access to the walkway should be kept. The railway line should not be a cause to close the path. Keep the access open. Wendy Gooch 57 Cutfield Road New Plymouth I have used that track for many years with NO problems!! Leave it open. Cheers Wendy I would like to know how many people have been injured by trains or anything else on this walkway. I am unaware of any myself but there has to be a lot for the walkway to be closed. If not, is its closing just a knee jerk' reaction to an accident on the crossing near to the Aquatic Centre earlier this year. I personally have used this walkway over 100 times in the last 5-10 years and I venture to say my wife would have used it even more. We often sit on the seat and eat our fish and chips with a view of the harbour people would travel a long way to have. It is magnificent!! Please reconsider closing this Kevin Archer 69a Tukapa St New Plymouth walkway!!
I have been using this cutting for over 52 years - we used to walk through the cutting and climb down to the rocks: This was long before the rocks and the wild coastal area belown the hillside were reclaimed so that what has to be one of the ugliest collection of buildings in an area of great natural beauty could be built. We've lost the easy access to the wharves and the outer sea wall that we used to have. I can see that by gradual degrees all easy and free access to the waterfront will be taken away. The closing of this cutting - which has never been a danger in all the years I and my family have been using it - James Macky 12 Roy Terrace Moturoa, New Plymouth is another step in taking something away from the people of New Plymouth for commercial and corporate gain. Closing this cutting to the port is petty a closed minded. Unsafe? Pfft! How many trains travel this line per day? How is it unsafe? How many people have been hurt on this crossing? Stop looking for things that aren't there!. If people are run over by a train, Maybe it's just Darwinism at work. Stop wasting MY Martin Williams 30 David St. rate money! Kylie Davis 12a Carver Place Lynmouth I love this walkway and use it all the time!! we use this walkway all the time and would hate to see it disappear - it is an easy way for us to connect up to the coastal walkway from our home and is not Robyn Schultz 5 Annandale ST New Plymouth threat at all to any sensible person using it I use this crossing a lot, and enjoy having a quicker way to get to the foreshore, the boardwalk, the Bach Cafe, and Ngamotu Beach. I feel that this walkway is necessary in the case of quick exits, if need be from this area. We can get to higher ground quicker than having to walk or run to either Ngamotu Beach Claire Martin 99a Pioneer Road, Moturoa New Plymouth area or Belt Road area. I also enjoy walking through this bush area to the beach. Convenience of access to Oceanview Parade, to take in the pleasures of the Restaraunts,walkway, & what the magnificent seashore has to offer is paramount. It is approx.1.5kms from Bayly Road to Belt Road, quite a distance apart for easy access. What has been noticeable since Calvert Road access has closed is the increase in personnel walking the railway corridor, & then scrabbling down the enbankment at the western end of Belt Road motor camp, or walking around the end of the Deer netting fence into the campsite itself & then exiting to the walkway via the campsite,which will im sure not go down well with the campsite leaseeses, or campers during the busy summer months. Safety should always be paramount, the current situation is LAUREEN & JOHN MCELROY 36B BIRDWOOD AVE MOTUROA, NEW PLYMOUTH untenable. Allen Pidwell 19 Poplar Grove Whalers Gate Keep the Calvert Road walkway open.There hasn't been any major incidents The Calvert Road rail crossing track should be upgraded to a safe standard so that it can continue to be used. My wife and I(in our 70s)use the track often and have found no problem with the track as it is. We are careful as we cross the railway track and find climbing up and down the path and steps great Colin Hedley 10A Squire Place exercise. I would like the Calvert Road rail crossing to be upgraded to make it safe so the crossing can be reopened in and the walkway linking Calvert Road and Rachel White 98 Pendarves Street Ocean View Parade can be used I regularly use the Calvert Road crossing to walk to the port as part of my daily exercise, often as a loop to come back via Belt Road. This closure is very inconvenient and makes this walk unattractive. The current risk at the Calvert Rd rail crossing is very low, given the few trains, and the good visibility. I consider the risk of the various road crossings to get to Calvert Rd is much higher than the rail crossing. Perversely because the crossing isn't paved one has to be more careful crossing it, than the other crossings on the walkway which are paved and can be crossed without taking due care! If NPDC is serious Chris Beath 30 B Rossiter Crescent about promoting walking in the City they will ensure this attractive route remains open to walkers. Dave Owens 16a Cornwall St NP Keep the Calvert Rd pedestrian crossing. We have been using it for years and firmly support allowing access to the port area through there.
This crossing would only be dangerous to a person who was blind, has no hearing and unable to move. If they were dressed in black, placed on the rail at night it as possible that a train could cause considerable injury. At school we were taught to look right, left then right again, if nothing was coming cross swiftly. Recently a person was killed further along this track where a barrier crossing was in place. I feel that to have a person walk in front of the train with a Kevin Curd 590a Frankley Rd R D I New Plymouth red flag is somewhat excessive, the status quo will not cost any dollars at all. Common sense seems to be not very common. Please develop the Calvert Road pedestrian so that it is a formal safe crossing that will be approved by Kiwirail. It is used daily by ourselves and others in Kevin Olsen 3A Lorna Street Lynmouth the household to access the waterfront area for recreation. yours faithfully, Kevin & Lynne Olsen
I have used this unofficial crossing since 1976 when we moved to the area. There have been no problems as far as I can remember. This is a great place to watch the ships from, a great circular track from where I now live,and a good short-cut to get to the Lee Breakwater. Please, just upgrade , if necessary.The bamboo could be cut back as it used to be( to provide a better view!)There was a lovely garden seat up there once, where people could sit and enjoy the peace and quiet while watching the yachts, fishermen, and ships. The whole track does not need an expensive up grade, but the barrier on either side of the railway tracks would be a cheaper option, if you have to do an upgrade. It would be very, very disappointing if the Council decides to close this well Barbara Hepburn 179a Tukapa Street, Westown Ne Plymouth 4310 used, popular track. I feel there are too many of these unnecessary upgrades happening all over the country. Dont get on the treadmill...... please!
I use this track regularly when I go for my lunchtime walks as I can cut back down to the coastal walkway and do a loop, rather than having to turn around Debbie Masters 5 Torbay Street Brooklands and go back the same way I came. I do not want to see this track closed. I don't consider it to be dangerous at all as long as you use your common sense.
We previously lived in Kitchener Tce for 20 years and have been in Morley St for 3 years. The Calvert Rd walkway access down to the port is a brilliant access for providing a great short loop walk for the many out-of-town visitors which we had and still have. We used it frequently when we lived in Kitchener Tce and continued to use it at our new address, even if a little less frequently. I believe that the record will show that it has a lower accident rate at its rail crossing than the more 'guarded' ones further east. We don't even think that it needs upgrading, but simply to be maintained (minimal) as-is in order to Ian & Jill McKillop 1 Morley St New Plymouth 4310 continue to provide good access. We therefore do not think that it should be closed. Thank you for receiving our submission and, hopefully, acting upon it. The Calvert Road rail crossing is used by runners to go between the road and the walkway. Runners will tend to ignore the barricades going around them or over the top of them. These barricades create a more dangerous situation than if they weren't there. Closing this off has been a knee jerk reaction to the John Henwood 6A Karina Road New Plymouth person who got himself killed while crossing the line listening to music. The line is straight with good visibility and the crossing should not be closed. Phillip Vedder 19 Whiteley St Moturoa please keep it open Esta Vedder 19 Whiteley St Moturoa please keep it open As a regular user of the Coastal Walkway and this area, access to the closed railway crossing should be reinstated ASAP. It's simply not good enough to just close a crossing like this which has been around forever and one which is used so extensively by members of the Public to access the Port Area from Andrew D Moturoa.
As a child in the late 40s and early 50's I lived in Calvert Road. We frequently used this rail crossing to get down to the beach. It was amazing. In those days that part of the beach was mostly sand with a few rocky areas where we could paddle and look for sea animals (mainly crabs) in the rock pools. The sand dunes were wonderful and all of us children enjoyed sliding down them, and the crossing was a wonderful short cut to the beach itself. Although the sand and the rock pools have disappeared the rail crossing is still a short cut to the area below and it would be a shame to deny walkers, bikers, etc the use of this crossing. Yes, safety is important but the majority of people are sensible and I'm sure take care when using this crossing, any crossing for that matter. Surely the council could reinforce the safety element by putting up signage to remind people of this. Cutting back foliage that interferes with vision would Faye Jury 18A Raniera Street, New Plymouth also be a good idea. Neither of these options would be overly expensive and people could continue to use the crossing for generations to come. Please do not close this access point. It does have the most magnificent views of the Harbour. Also it is an important access point to the walkway and I always wondered why it was not made one of the original access points. The only other access points in this area are Belt Road and and Pioneer Road. I realise that it would cost quite a lot to upgrade it. As a lone female using this access, I always felt uncomfortable with the way it is enclosed amongst the bamboo. However I would very much like this entry point to the walkway to be retained. The Rail Safety issue is really annoying as almost everyone realises without being told to check before crossing a Railway line. I have no idea why anyone would cross the Railway line without checking. You wouldn't Marilyn Armitstead 16 Kawaroa Close New Plymouth cross a road without checking. Marilyn Armitstead I own the Bach on Breakwater Cafe & Restaurant down at the Lee Breakwater. quite a number of folk using that path/railcrossing are customers of ours and they tell me that they would not be able to come down as often if that path remains closed. I used to live on St Aubyn St myself some years back and regularly used that path myself to go walking along the breakwater. i wouldn't have gone down there at all if i'd had to walk all the way around so i understand their position. I would like you to consider upgrading this crossing and track to keep it open for pedestrian traffic, and not close it. thank you for Barbara Olsen-Henderson 16A Hussey St Oakura 4314 your consideration. BARBARA OLSEN-HENDERSON
I am in favour of upgrading the access to enable it to reopen. Upgrading the access to allow for bikes to travel between the end of the Coastal Walkway and Calvert Road has the potential of allowing a significant number of students to cycle to both St Joseph’s and Devon Intermediate School safely using the Hannah Kelly 282 Stanley Road, Stratford, 4394 Coastal Walkway. The upgrade would increase the regular physical activity opportunities of young people as well as the rest of the community. Upgrading the access to allow for bikes to travel between the end of the Coastal Walkway and Calvert Road has the potential of allowing a significant Karli Haugh number of students to cycle to both St Joseph’s and Devon Intermediate School safely using the Coastal Walkway. My father lives near to the railway line and the crossing in discussion. I often walk the Te Henui walkway and along the coastal walkway to visit him. It is great to have the access available to get up onto Calvert Road. He uses this access to go for walks also. It is a concern that people have to cross the railway line but a large warning sign erected on either side to ask people to check before crossing would keep it safe. Ideally I would like the access to be Gaylene Phillips 5A Larsen Place Merrilands suitable for people on bikes also.
Upgrading the access to allow for bikes to travel between the end of the Coastal Walkway and Calvert Road has the potential of allowing a significant number of students to cycle to both St Joseph’s and Devon Intermediate School safely using the Coastal Walkway. Suggesting this upgrade would be Vanessa McCarthy 11a Shaldon Crescent Blagdon consistent with our aim of increasing the regular physical activity opportunities of young people as well as the rest of the community.
Hello I am the Community Sport Advisor Bike at Sport Taranaki and as such, I work in partnership with the NPDC Let's Go Team to encourage students to travel to school by bike. I see the latest discussion around the temporary closure of the Calvert Road access as the perfect opportunity to discuss not only the upgrade of the crossing but of the path itself: Upgrading the access to allow for bikes to travel between the end of the Coastal Walkway, Ocean Parade and Calvert Road would allow a significant number of students to cycle to both St Joseph’s and Devon Intermediate School safely using the Coastal Walkway. Considering this upgrade would be consistent with the current work the NPDC Let's Go Project has been carrying to improve safe walking and cycling opportunities within the district. Moreover, both Devon Intermediate and St Joseph's School students have been involved in the BDO Cycle Skills Training and travel planning exercises; it only makes sense to consider any possible safety improvement and increased access opportunities to allow students to cycle to schools following the training. Obviously, the upgraded track and crossing would also be available for students who chose to walk. The access is steep but access ways such as the ones existing between The Outlook’s end and Pitcairn and McFarlane Streets in Oakura show this is possible, even if this means having to push bikes up or down the hill for a short distance. Upgrading the path and railway crossing would also provide increased recreational opportunities for the community with all the attached health and well-being benefits and add to the fantastic lifestyle our district already enjoys. Thank you for the opportunity to provide feedback. I would appreciate if you could keep me up to date with any follow-up on this discussion. Kind regards, Joelle Xavier 112B Hine Street New Plymouth 4310 Joëlle
Glen Phillips 75A Bayly Road I think it is a great idea to upgrade the walking path between Cultert Road and the beach. We as a school would use it for safe access to Ngamotu Beach.
Glen Phillips 75A Bayly Road I think it is a great idea to upgrade the walking path between Cultert Road and the beach. We as a school would use it for safe access to Ngamotu Beach. I would not like to see this track closed as it offers easy access down to the waterfront for many residents who live close by, or , for those whom do not wish to paid park or cannot find available parking down in the port area. I have noted that very few trains move along this section of line and before crossing there is good visibility (at Calvert Road crossing) both to the left and the right, (I feel I take more risk crossing over St Aubyn Street ,also the Moturoa Shopping centre pedestrian crossing). I think that railways should be more concerned at the number of people that I have noted walking the length of the line Teresa Whitaker 18 Roy Terrace New Plymouth 4310 and it would appear that they take access to do this from Bayly Road, where they exit I have no idea. We are so disappointed that the Calvert Road Rail Crossing has closed. We miss using it to get to shops, restaurants, walkway & beach.. Please Danny & Margaret Mullan 15 Whiteley Street , Motorua New Plymouth reconsider. We are so disappointed that the Calvert Road Rail Crossing has closed. We miss using it to get to shops, restaurants, walkway & beach.. Please Danny & Margaret Mullan 15 Whiteley Street , Motorua New Plymouth reconsider. This railway has never been a danger in the passed, and I often use this crossing to walk to work and I think it would be a great shame if this crossing was Siobhan Rose 19 Lawry Street Moturoa closed.
To the NPDC and KiwiRail, I strongly oppose the permanent closure of the Calvert Road unofficial rail crossing and support upgrading it to an official formal safe crossing, with appropriate approval of the engineering design by KiwiRail. My reasons: 1.For local family/residents to use. I was raised in Roy Terrace and have used the crossing for the past 55+ years. Five generations of my immediate family have used the crossing to access the Coastal walkway, Ngamotu beach, the Port, waterfront businesses, the Lee Breakwater, the Aquatic Centre, and various other locations along the Coastal walkway. Sometimes we would just go to the top of the crossing to admire the view of the harbour or walk the dog. At no time did we ever consider the access way to be an unofficial rail crossing, and I cannot ever recall any signage to indicate that it was. I would like the crossing to remain open in a safe state for present and future generations of all local families/residents to use. 2.For residents of the Moturoa and wider New Plymouth Communities to use. Having spent a good part of my life living in Roy Terrace, I got to see many other local residents spanning the wider Moturoa Community using the crossing, it was not just the residents living in close proximity to it. The crossing is also used by recreational walkers, joggers and runners as part of their circuit or route planning and some of these people come from the wider New Plymouth Community. I would like the crossing to remain open in a safe state for residents of the Moturoa and wider New Plymouth Communities to use. 3.For international and out of town visitors to use. I am also aware that former residents with knowledge of the crossing returning to New Plymouth on holiday or relocating back permanently will at some stage use the crossing regardless of where they may be staying or living in New Plymouth. There is also a wider population who may be friends, family, visitors of local residents who are introduced to the location of the crossing. This group may also include tourists who have been guided to the location of the crossing by word of mouth. I would like the crossing to remain open in a safe state for both international and out of town visitors to use. NPDC/KiwiRail Rationale: I totally understand the rationale for the need to close the crossing at this point in time, there is no legal argument against the need to meet Health and Safety Legislation, however, if the council gets sufficient public feedback indicating that the crossing should not be permanently closed, then the legislation can still be met with an upgraded official safe rail crossing approved by KiwiRail. Speaking of safe crossings, in my 55+ years of using the unofficial crossing, to the best of my knowledge, no one has been killed on it (I emphasise, to the best of my knowledge), however, within that same timeframe I am aware of a least two unfortunate deaths on the ‘Safe and Approved’ crossings down by the Windwand. I’m not saying it could never happen at Calvert Road and therefore agree with the rationale and subsequent course of action. Funding: The NPDC has made it clear that there is no immediate provision for funding the construction of an approved and safe crossing, therefore if a decision was made not to permanently close the crossing, the crossing would remain temporarily closed until such time as the funds were made available. Funding doesn’t have to come solely from the NPDC and its 10 year plan, it could come from local residents donating/fundraising, from the wider community donating, waterfront businesses donating, local Iwi with an interest donating, TDHB funding from a community health perspective, Sport Taranaki funding from a fitness and healthy lifestyle perspective, from national Give-a-little campaigns etc, etc. There is obviously enough discretionary funding to construct adequate barriers/fencing to block access from both sides right now. Closing. In closing, I no longer reside in New Plymouth, but I do own a property in Marfell and therefore am a ratepayer, my intention is to retire in New Plymouth. My mother of 86+ years still lives in Roy Terrace in our original family homestead. I visit her regularly, my adult children visit her less frequently. When we are home we enjoy the freedom of accessing the beach, breakwater, walkway via the ‘cutting’ (our name for the Calvert Road unofficial rail crossing). It would be a shame if that freedom of choice for everyone that uses it, were taken away permanently without serious consideration for making it a safe and approved official crossing Doug Puke for all to use no matter where you live. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to provide feedback on this matter. It is important that there is as many opportunity's for residence to walk and bike throughout the city, the ability to access the waterfront walk way from residential new Plymouth is what makes new Plymouth special. To close this is a step away from supporting the walkway. I appreciate retaining it could be costly, but then how much is spent on a couple sign maps to explain where you are when everyone has smart phones and is easier to find than a one off Boyd Benton 62 Dorset Ave map built on a street. Think about the future we all want and build it. Colin Shackleton 44A Whiteley Street Moturoa Have emailed my submission this evening to Liz Beck. Colin Shackleton 21 September 2016 The crossing of the railway line at Calvert Road and the track down is a convenient way to walk to and from Ocean View Parade. I think it is well used and has not caused any problem over many years of use. I hope NZ Rail will agree to do what is required to bring the pedestrian access across the railway line MARIE ARMSTRONG 49 CROWNHILL STREET NEW PLYMOUTH 4310 up to their standard requirement. The crossing of the railway line at Calvert Road and the track down is a convenient way to walk to and from Ocean View Parade. I think it is well used and has not caused any problem over many years of use. I hope NZ Rail will agree to do what is required to bring the pedestrian access across the railway line MARIE ARMSTRONG 49 CROWNHILL STREET NEW PLYMOUTH 4310 up to their standard requirement. The crossing of the railway line at Calvert Road and the track down is a convenient way to walk to and from Ocean View Parade. I think it is well used and has not caused any problem over many years of use. I hope NZ Rail will agree to do what is required to bring the pedestrian access across the railway line MARIE ARMSTRONG 49 CROWNHILL STREET NEW PLYMOUTH 4310 up to their standard requirement. The pedestrian crossing of the railway line at Calvert Road has been part of a well known track to and from Ocean View Parade for many years and has not caused any harm to anyone. I hope NZ Rail will not close this access permanently but will put up any signage, etc they require to meet their standard KEITH ARMSTRONG 49 CROWNHILL STREET NEW PLYMOUTH 4310 requirement. Michael Crow 14 Lawry Street Moturoa 4310 As a regular user of this area I would like to continue to be able to access this via bike and running. Also to access the town. Russell Cleaver That this rail crossing should remain open . Alan Chapman 11 Wiremu Place Blagdon Please reopen the calvert rd rail crossing. Please retain the access track between Ocean View Parade and Calvert Rd. Our family use it often - eiher running or walking or wheeling bikes up/down. The recent death at a pedestrian railway crossing point highlights that this safety treatment although minimises the risk to the user, it was ineffective given the user was wearing headphones - a fatal distraction. It appears that implementation of safety treatments has increased complacency around crossing points. The new yellow raised footpath treatments, increased signage and vegetation clearance (hopefully on a maintenance schedule) at the approaches to these crossing points have improved awareness and probably user vigilance at these points. A similar approach could be taken to the crossing ear- marked for closure. What would this cost to satisfy NZ Rail safety requirements whilst meeting the community need to keep this connection open? Please tell us. Could there be an opportunity for the community to fundraise to keep it open? This connection is a vital link and needs to be retained to keep Louisa Webber 100 Pioneer Rd Moturoa 4310 New Plymouth a connected community. We use the crossing at the end of Calvert Road on a nearly daily basis. One of the reasons we purchased a property in the area was easy access to the cafes/walkways/beach & have always found the Calvert road track to be the best way to access the above. I have also used that track for a long time & remember it well. Please repair the track to enable people to have access, it is beneficial to us and a lot of people we know & we would be saddened if this was closed due to some minor safety concerns. We love this part of town & do not want to see access closed along the end of Calvert Road. Please Vikki Goldfinch 30 Annandale Street New Plymouth council do what you have to - to keep it opened.
The crossing should DEFINITELY STAY OPEN. It is our shortest access to the port and coastal walkway. My family uses this crossing and pathway at least 3 times a week (every day in summer). It avoids us a long walk along a very busy road (either via belt rd or via moturoa) and with a young son and dog, it gives us safe access to the much loved coastal walkway. I can't stress enough what a loss it would be to this area to see this access closed. It would be Danielle Gibas 429 St Aubyn Street Lynmouth such a shame. We would really love to have the crossing upgraded and maintained for the use of our growing family. Thanks in advance! I appreciate the effort the council has put into this unofficial road for many years, keeping the surrounding grass cut and the bamboo short so that many of us can have the pleasure of looking over the port and enjoying the view. I remember the (last of the summer wine neighboring old guys) clearing this area (before council took over)so that we young ones could enjoy the view. We are in retirement age now and when our children and visitors come over we have great pleasure in showing off this surprise breathtaking view. This will all change if this road is closed. There are few pleasures in life and this is one of them (watching magnificent sunsets). This is our little corner of the world which we have great pleasure in showing off to all who visit us. This road leads onto the cafes and gift shops below and we enjoy sharing these outings with our visitors. This is our contribution to the community. Please don't close the Bonnie Johnstone 394 St Aubyn Street New Plymouth road and take away this pleasure.
I have lived in this area for nearly 58 years and have used the Calvert Road railway crossing as a means to access the beach frequently. There are now many popular businesses along the foreshore which are for the people who live within a 1/2 km, just a walk away, however if the crossing is closed permanently, have a long way to walk,cycle or drive. There is a traffic/parking congestion issue along the foreshore, especially during the summer months. Apart from the many other virtues of our walkway, the ability to journey it's length by avoiding roads and without motor vehicles is one reason to keep pedestrian access routes open. If the consensus on the submission and petition gives you a clear mandate for the project to proceed, would you consider making a gradual sloping path along the bank to somewhere near Chaddy's sign, so the elderly, disabled, mothers with prams and cyclists can use it. I am Steven Prout 23 Roy Terrace Moturoa, New Plymouth in favour of upgrading to an official railway level crossing. I have also signed the petition. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to have our say. Joshua Robertson I would love to see this crossing upgraded to a safe compliant level crossing for future use as it is a very popular access to the port area below. It should be made safe and be opened for the people. I am 86 years old and first used it when I was 6 years old. My parents, my children, their children Kura Puke 9 Roy Terrace Moturoa New Plymouth and their children have used it for the past 100 years. Toni Castle 28 Bonithon Ave New Plymouth Upgrade and open for the public. Five generations of my family have used it for years. Mayor Judd and Councilor’s, I wish to submit a petition of 1600 names on behalf of concerned citizens of New Plymouth and some further afield for early reinstatement of the Calvert road Rail Crossing, in addition to councils own survey. We believe that once signposted and upgraded to the required safety standards it will become an additional asset to the entire New Plymouth community adding to the vibrant and appealing network of walkways. I also wish to advise the council that the bulk of these signatures were obtained from the base of the steps itself without canvasing the entire New Plymouth community, should time and resources have allowed that figure would have grown substantially. The track itself has been in existence and use for the past 80 years, some say more and having talked to elderly residents in the area that is something I would not doubt. It is strategically placed between both Baily and Belt Roads and runs from lower Calvert Road, follows a paper road which is the Calvert Road extension across a single rail line down a flight of steps and exits on to Oceanview Parade and the coastal walkway. It takes less than two minutes to walk the track end to end. Since the track closure the alternative routes being either Belt Rd (1.8km) or Bailey Rd (1.6km) would now require a further 20 minute walk, double that for a return journey. At the base it provides direct access to some of New Plymouths most popular waterfront attractions including shops, restaurants, cafes, fishing club, dive school, scenic charters, Ngamotu beach, the Lee breakwater and Marina. Also in the near future a marae is to be built which will bring many more to the area. As a result of the extended round trip walk it would have some adverse effects on the businesses’ and a inconvenience to many. The Mangaotuku walkway, a walkway promoted by the council itself exits on lower Calvert Rd a mere 500 meters from the rail crossing, linked by the pedestrian crossing on St Aubyn St, would it not be a perfect marriage of the two as a natural extension onto the coastal walkway, as the extension is already identified as public access on the Government initiated Walking Access Mapping System used by locals, visitors and tourist’s. As for those that use the crossing itself, one could be excused on first view that it would be a track used by locals, but as the signatures on the petition show, and having talked with a large number that support it, the usage is from far and wide within the community and even some beyond. Not only is it used for access for the fore mentioned but it is also used by many for exercise, training, work access and also by the local schools for nature study walks, Ngamotu beach days and also the take a kid fishing programme. The added extra distance for those schools in the area would have a huge impact on their abilities to continue with these activities not to mention the extra strain for the elderly to access those areas and businesses below. The wider community use it for the Weetbix Kids Triathlon, the ITU Triathlon, Market Days and any number of activities that are held at the port and beach areas. People often gather at the seating at the top for lunches, dinner and to solve the world’s problems over chat. We have had romances kindled at the seating area, marriage proposals, wedding photographs and even perhaps a divorce or two settled and why wouldn’t you with unparalleled views of the harbor out to the outlying islands, the lee breakwater, Kawaroa reef and beyond and the most amazing sunsets you could imagine. In conclusion it has been a recognized crossing for decades as the council itself has in the past maintained the stairwell, installed the maze at the top and at one time erected the “Look for Train” signs which were removed 4-5 months prior to the closure allowing the public to continue using it, unsigned. The crossing was closed in early August without public notice, inhibiting the public’s ability to move freely, creating shock, anger, disappointment and sadness let alone the inconvenience. We also question that the council of past and present has allowed the public to cross the railway, allowing us to do so unknowingly illegally and why has an application to Kiwirail for a deed of grant not been submitted to date along with the the several other pedestrian crossings during the planning and construction of the coastal walkway. The cost of monitoring and erecting barriers and eventually a fence would surely be of more sense to aid funding to the process of upgrading the crossing. We are not expecting an over engineered design. A carbon copy of the Cutfield Rd pedestrian crossing with its natural look would be adequate as it is there. The steps leading down to Oceanview parade could be upgraded or a wooden structure of steps as at Back Beach below Paritutu. If tools could be provided a David Castle 7 Roy Terrace New Plymouth voluntary group would start clearing the bamboo etc. Extra safety and possibly a must for all pedestrian crossings without bells and lights would be a I believe a deed of grant to Kiwirail should be submitted as soon as possible so the upgrade and safety of the crossing can go forward to enable the public to carry on using the Calvery rd access to Oceanview Parade. This should have been done when the Coastal Walkway was planned and constructed years Christine Castle 7 Roy Terrace New Plymouth ago.
The Calvert Road level crossing/walkway is inherently safe as the relatively rough approaches on both sides and the need to carefully step over the actual rails means you need to concentrate on what you are doing. In addition there is a considerable straight stretch of track and excellent visibility in either direction, only one train every 2-3 hours with some days none at all and train speed restrictions. I imagine it is much safer than the nearby State Highway crossing. I am aware of the accident at Buckley Street and another recently in Auckland but note both parties were distracted by electronic devices and all the safety features present failed to prevent the accidents. There is only so much you can do to protect us from ourselves. On a personal note I normally use the crossing several times a week to access the Coastal Walkway, Lee Breakwater and local events; do rubbish runs, visit the boat compound or local businesses. Just this week I had to take my car so I could have lunch at one of the restaurants when I would normally have walked. My grandkids also keep their fishing rods at our place so they can go and fish on the Lee Breakwater. While I acknowledge the crossing does not comply with current health and safely rules according to the Kiwirail website it is just one of 700 informal crossings around the country. Certainly nobody wants to see anybody get hurt or killed. I therefore call on the Council to meet its obligations to protect long enjoyed Council assets, promote the health and safety of its inhabitants, minimise vehicle emissions, support NZ Walkway Commission initiatives and maintain property values which will otherwise be impacted by the loss of the crossing. Furthermore that the Council immediately take the necessary steps to obtain any approvals required, upgrade the crossing, reinstate warning signs, have Charles Le Breton Unit 2 27 Whiteley Street, Moturoa, NP, 4310 trains sound their horn so its citizens can resume their use and enjoyment of this valuable asset. I have family that lives on Roy tce and as a kid I spent alot of time there. We used and still use the Calvert rd crossing all the time to go fishing down the breakwater or just for a walk or just to look at the view of the harbour. Still to this day when I go back to new plymouth, going down to the cutting is the first thing I like to do and I've taken many people not from new plymouth there to the crossing and they can't believe the view. Please don't close the crossing it Hemi Puke 1 Kantara Ln is deffinatly worth the money to upgrade it and make it safer To: Liz Beck, Integrated Transport Coordinator Dear Liz This letter is in response to notice of New Plymouth District Council's (NPDC) proposal to close the Calvert Road crossing. I absolutely object to this proposal which I feel Is purely a knee jerk reaction by the NPDC and KiwiRail in response to the latest fatality on the railway line rather than dealing sensibility and holistically with the crossings. It's easy to point the finger at "careless walkway users" and the very best scenario for the NPDC and KiwiRail is that the public be distracted into supporting this view, entirely missing that the real problem is the rather large holes in the safety infrastructure around the Coastal Walkway in relation to the railway line. Firstly, the lack of any real safety assessment around the rail crossings during the early planning stages of the Coastal Walkway, was grossly remiss. Question 1: Once the walkway was opened, was there and is there now, an annual, forward management plan to monitor all foreseeable safety issues in relation to the railway line and walkway usage? Question 2 and 3 There is no doubt the success of the walkway has exceeded all expectations. Did anyone from the NPDC and KiwRail ever recognise that the original "design guidelines" provided by KiwiRail during the early planning and design stages of the walkway, say 1997, were becoming increasingly unsafe and inadequate as the popularity of the walkway grew? If so, how does the safety infrastructure prior to the 2016 fatality vary from those original design guidelines? Question 4: Why wasnt a full safety investigation carried out by TAIC (Transport Accident Investigation Commission) following the first fatality? Question 5 and 6: Has TAIC carried out a full safety investigation following the second fatality? If so, what was its findings ? Question 7: Were safety investigations carried out after each of the 8 near hits? The second fatality finally prompted a "safety audit" and I would like to make the comment that I believe this audit should have been carried out by someone quite independent of NPDC and KiwiRail. However amongst its findings identified: * Non compliant railway crossings * Missing or faded road markings * Missing or faded signage * Insufficient/incorrect pedestrian markers * Incomplete Deeds of Grant for every crossing * Inadequate maintenance of vegetation in the railway corridor...impeded line for vision for pedestrians and train drivers eg...the vegetation that runs along the boundary of the Belt Road Motor camp blocks the clear line of sight for trains and pedestrians; the flaxes at the Weymouth crossing obscuring the clear line of sight, were only cut down AFTER the fatality on the tracks earlier this year...potentially the pedestrian who was killed couldn't see the train and the train driver couldn't see the pedestrian. The recommendations arising from that audit include the need for further education. "NPDC's Let's Go" staff work with Kiwirail and Tracksafe to develop educational material that is targeted at the New Plymouth District in order to educate and encourage appropriate, safety aware behaviour at railway crossings." The New Plymouth District Council's Let's Go programme has been operating since 2000 and yet none of the educational material available on the internet today mentions rail safety on the Coastal Walkway. 8 near hits and 2 fatalities and no mention of rail safety! The NZTA's report "The Walking and Cycling Model Community Story with New Plymouth and Hastings, aimed at the educating of other towns planning similar walkway projects "so that others can learn from their experience, both good and not so good" makes absolutely no mention of the railway line or safety around trains. This document was written in 2013. The construction of a walkway in close proximity to a railway line would be worth mentioning - and yet there appears no awareness around this at all. I agree that education and awareness is key. It unfortunately we live in a world of distractions - cell phones, text messages, internet and exercising to music. Exercising to music has been encouraged since the 70's. None of this is new, it's not going to go away. Technology will only increase the distractions. Awareness and a compliant, well managed safety infrastructure must be in place to minimise the potential of more fatalities. I believe train speeds should also be restricted through the city area and that trains should only be permitted to travel at a speed that they can complete an emergency stop if necessary. Trains have been noticed travelling at speeds in excess of 60kmh on the line behind Centre City. Question 8: Why are trains permitted to travel at 50 kph through the busy city area to the port whereas in some places, cars etc are restricted to 30kph? Question 9: Travelling at 50kph, what distance does a train travel before it can complete an Erica Pearson 4 Annandale Street New Plymouth emergency stop? Question 10: Since the walkway has been built, how often have speed cameras been put into place to record train speeds? Question To: Liz Beck, Integrated Transport Coordinator Dear Liz This letter is in response to notice of New Plymouth District Council's (NPDC) proposal to close the Calvert Road crossing. I absolutely object to this proposal which I feel Is purely a knee jerk reaction by the NPDC and KiwiRail in response to the latest fatality on the railway line rather than dealing sensibility and holistically with the crossings. It's easy to point the finger at "careless walkway users" and the very best scenario for the NPDC and KiwiRail is that the public be distracted into supporting this view, entirely missing that the real problem is the rather large holes in the safety infrastructure around the Coastal Walkway in relation to the railway line. Firstly, the lack of any real safety assessment around the rail crossings during the early planning stages of the Coastal Walkway, was grossly remiss. Question 1: Once the walkway was opened, was there and is there now, an annual, forward management plan to monitor all foreseeable safety issues in relation to the railway line and walkway usage? Question 2 and 3 There is no doubt the success of the walkway has exceeded all expectations. Did anyone from the NPDC and KiwRail ever recognise that the original "design guidelines" provided by KiwiRail during the early planning and design stages of the walkway, say 1997, were becoming increasingly unsafe and inadequate as the popularity of the walkway grew? If so, how does the safety infrastructure prior to the 2016 fatality vary from those original design guidelines? Question 4: Why wasnt a full safety investigation carried out by TAIC (Transport Accident Investigation Commission) following the first fatality? Question 5 and 6: Has TAIC carried out a full safety investigation following the second fatality? If so, what was its findings ? Question 7: Were safety investigations carried out after each of the 8 near hits? The second fatality finally prompted a "safety audit" and I would like to make the comment that I believe this audit should have been carried out by someone quite independent of NPDC and KiwiRail. However amongst its findings identified: * Non compliant railway crossings * Missing or faded road markings * Missing or faded signage * Insufficient/incorrect pedestrian markers * Incomplete Deeds of Grant for every crossing * Inadequate maintenance of vegetation in the railway corridor...impeded line for vision for pedestrians and train drivers eg...the vegetation that runs along the boundary of the Belt Road Motor camp blocks the clear line of sight for trains and pedestrians; the flaxes at the Weymouth crossing obscuring the clear line of sight, were only cut down AFTER the fatality on the tracks earlier this year...potentially the pedestrian who was killed couldn't see the train and the train driver couldn't see the pedestrian. The recommendations arising from that audit include the need for further education. "NPDC's Let's Go" staff work with Kiwirail and Tracksafe to develop educational material that is targeted at the New Plymouth District in order to educate and encourage appropriate, safety aware behaviour at railway crossings." The New Plymouth District Council's Let's Go programme has been operating since 2000 and yet none of the educational material available on the internet today mentions rail safety on the Coastal Walkway. 8 near hits and 2 fatalities and no mention of rail safety! The NZTA's report "The Walking and Cycling Model Community Story with New Plymouth and Hastings, aimed at the educating of other towns planning similar walkway projects "so that others can learn from their experience, both good and not so good" makes absolutely no mention of the railway line or safety around trains. This document was written in 2013. The construction of a walkway in close proximity to a railway line would be worth mentioning - and yet there appears no awareness around this at all. I agree that education and awareness is key. It unfortunately we live in a world of distractions - cell phones, text messages, internet and exercising to music. Exercising to music has been encouraged since the 70's. None of this is new, it's not going to go away. Technology will only increase the distractions. Awareness and a compliant, well managed safety infrastructure must be in place to minimise the potential of more fatalities. I believe train speeds should also be restricted through the city area and that trains should only be permitted to travel at a speed that they can complete an emergency stop if necessary. Trains have been noticed travelling at speeds in excess of 60kmh on the line behind Centre City. Question 8: Why are trains permitted to travel at 50 kph through the busy city area to the port whereas in some places, cars etc are restricted to 30kph? Question 9: Travelling at 50kph, what distance does a train travel before it can complete an Erica Pearson 4 Annandale Street New Plymouth emergency stop? Question 10: Since the walkway has been built, how often have speed cameras been put into place to record train speeds? Question Please don't close the Calvert Road Rail Crossing. This is a really useful crossing to access the beautiful costal walkway, cafe and restaurants in the area. We use this often. Also, this is a special spot for myself and my husband as this is where we would often come on dates, where he proposed and where we Bryar Gibson 134 Tukapa Street Westown, New Plymouth often come to watch the port and have a picnic. We would love to be able to take our future children here.
I would like to request that a formal, safe rail crossing be built at the end of Calvert Road. The unofficial crossing is a much-appreciated part of my neighbourhood in Moturoa and is frequently used by many people who live in the local vicinity. I, myself have lived on Calvert Road for more than thirteen years and during a typical week, make use of the crossing every day. From what I have seen, the crossing is used by a lot of people for a variety of reasons, from personal fitness, owners exercising their dog/s, and walking to events held at Ngamotu Beach, to eat at one of the port cafes or to enjoy fishing off the breakwater, or walking into town. Each week individuals also use the unofficial crossing to bike and/or walk to their place of work in central New Plymouth. With the Council's focus on Let's Go projects in the community, I believe that formalising the Calvert Road rail crossing is a necessity, given its high usage. With easy access to the port, Ngamotu Beach and the Coastal Walkway, the crossing provides people with an opportunitiy to reduce the use of motor vehicles and become more active in their daily lives. Creating a safe rail crossing at Calvert Road is a priority because it would bring far greater benefits to the quality of life and well-being of local people, rather than the alternative of permanently closing a well-used and well-loved walkway. A formal crossing at this location would not only ensure the safety for residents who depend on it for a route to work and as a means for exercise, but allow Angela Gnyp people the freedom to continue enjoying the natural outdoor environment of our city.
I do not agree that the unofficial rail crossing at the end of Calvert Road should be closed. In my view it should simply remain as an unofficial rail crossing. I have lived most of my life in New Plymouth. When I was a child I lived in Whiteley Street. The crossing was used by local children and by adults all the time to access the sand dunes which went down to the coast. As I understand it the crossing is still used frequently. It gives access to the coastal walkway. It also gives access to shops and cafes which now occupy the area below the crossing. If the crossing was to be closed then that access will be gone. There is no alternative foot access which is convenient. In my view the community should be encouraged to be active and to enjoy the byways of the town on foot.The type of prohibition which Council is proposing goes directly against all the supposed efforts of the Go campaign which encourages citizens to be out and be active. Parking down in the cafe precinct is at a premium already. People should be encouraged to walk rather than using the car and the crossing over the railway line directly facilitates that. I cant understand why after all these years the crossing is suddenly deemed to be unsafe. I personally still use it regularly as does my wife and we will be very disappointed if the crossing is closed. In my view crossing a train line is no more danderous than crossing the street. If the line was electrified or if it was a high speed line then that might mean a change of circumstances but my observation is that the trains on that line are moving no faster than they were 50 years ago. My view is that the crossing should not be closed off and should be re-opened without delay. If Council considers that it should be upgraded (and I disagree that it needs to be upgraded)then Council can I daresay proceed with that in due course but in John Middleton 8A Bracken Street New Plymouth 4310 the meantime in my view there is nothing to warrant the closing off of this crossing which has given active enjoyment to the community for generations.
1 SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT ITEM C
SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT - ANNUAL REPORT 2015/16 PREPARED BY: Philip Armstrong (Manager Business Services) TEAM: Financial Services APPROVED BY: Alan Bird (Chief Financial Officer) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 3 October 2016 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 7246673
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is minor changes to the draft Annual Report 2015/16 following endorsement by the Audit and Risk Subcommittee on 16 September 2016. It is recommended that the minor changes to the draft Annual Report be endorsed and adopted with the Annual Report 2015/16.
Subsequent to the Audit and Risk Subcommittee of 16 September 2016, the auditors have fully completed their audit. The final version of the Annual Report is attached. This supersedes the version considered by the Audit & Risk Subcommittee.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report the Council adopts the Annual Report 2015/16.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Audit and Risk Subcommittee endorsed the draft Annual Report 2015/16 on 16 September 2016. Subsequent to this the auditors have fully completed their audit and as a consequence some minor inconsequential changes have been identified.
The changes primarily related to small rounding errors and minor grammatical changes. There was however a reclassification of foreign currency translation movements in the group other comprehensive income between retained earnings and foreign currency fluctuation reserve, with no net impact on overall equity.
In the Financial summary we have also included a graph on the council debt levels for the last 5 years as requested by the audit and risk committee. The overall Council surplus of $18.3 million remains unchanged.
BACKGROUND After the Audit and Risk Subcommittee on 16 September 2016, a number of inconsequential changes were identified to improve the accuracy of the Annual Report
The final version of the Annual Report is now attached.
Council Friday 7 October 2016 2 ITEM C SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT
Council Friday 7 October 2016 1 ITEM C
ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016 (2015/16) PREPARED BY: Philip Armstrong (Manager Business Services) TEAM: Financial Services APPROVED BY: Alan Bird (Chief Financial Officer) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 5 September 2016 FILE REFERENCE: DM 7220675
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is to note and endorse the Annual Report 2015/16.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION a) That having considered all matters raised in the report, the report be noted and the Annual Report be adopted. b) Authorises the Mayor and Chief Executive to make any minor editorial amendments to the Annual Report 2015/16 document deemed necessary before publication.
AUDIT AND RISK SUBCOMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION Endorsed the officer’s recommendation.
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is of some importance. This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Note and endorse the report for adoption by the full Council on Options 27 September 2016.
2. Propose amendments to the report before adoption by the Council on 27 September 2016.
The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are the Affected persons general public. Recommendation This report recommends option 1 for addressing the matter. Long-Term Plan / The adoption of the Annual Report itself is just a reporting matter and Annual Plan has no impact on the Annual and Long Term Plan. Implications
Council Friday 7 October 2016 2 ITEM C
COMPLIANCE Significant Policy and Plan There are no inconsistencies with current policies and plans. Inconsistencies
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In terms of the Local Government Act 2002, the Council is required to prepare, have audited and adopt an Annual Report each year.
BACKGROUND The purpose of the Annual Report is to report against measures and outcomes agreed to with the adoption in June 2015 of the 2015/16 Annual Plan.
Auditing of the Annual Report by Audit New Zealand is substantially complete and the Audit Report on the Annual Report will be presented to the Council meeting to be held on 27 September 2016. Audit New Zealand will be present at the Audit and Risk Subcommittee meeting on 16 September and have indicated they will give verbal clearance at that meeting and are indicating they will be presenting an unmodified (clean) audit opinion.
The Annual Report demonstrates another busy year for the Council with some notable achievements including the opening of the Len Lye Centre in early July, the introduction of the new Kerbside collection system in October and the start of Jet Star flying into New Plymouth in February.
Financially the Council had a strong year. The key financial achievement was the sale of Tasman Farms. This helped with an over performance of the Perpetual Investment Fund (PIF) which contributed to an overall accounting surplus for the Council of $18.3 million.
Operationally the Council also performed well with a strong focus on cost control throughout the year. The continuation of vacancy management combined with a number of vacancies, meant lower personnel costs. There was also considerable savings in interest costs due to lower than budgeted interest rates and lower borrowing due to the timing of capital expenditure.
The accounts prepared for the Annual Report are prepared using generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and include a number of valuations relating to investments, assets, interest rate swaps etc which impact our accounting result. After adjusting for these non cash items and isolating the targeted rate performance and accounting for carry forward budgets, the Council had a net general rate operating surplus over budget of $2 million.
As per the Treasury Management policy, the Council has the option to use the surplus to further decrease the PIF release, repay debt or apply against rates over the next three years.
A separate report has been provided on the allocation of the surplus.
Council Friday 7 October 2016 3 ITEM C
At the time of preparing this report, the audit is substantially complete but is still in progress. If there are any changes required by audit this will be noted at the Audit and Risk Subcommittee meeting and formal advice to the Council before adoption on the 27 September.
SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT The Annual Report is an audited record of the Council’s performance over the previous year and is therefore a historical and administrative document. This matter has therefore been assessed as being of some importance in terms of the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.
OPTIONS Option 1 Note and endorse the report for adoption by the full Council on 27 September.
Option 2 Propose amendments to the report before adoption by the Council on 27 September.
Risk analysis Amendments to the report will require further audit. Substantial amendments could result in the Council not being able to meet its statutory timeframe for adoption of the Annual Report due to extended audit requirements.
Recommended Option This report recommends option 1
Council Friday 7 October 2016 4 ITEM C
APPENDICES
Annual Report (attached as a separate document).
Council Friday 7 October 2016 For adoption at Council Meeting 7 October 2016
ANNUAL REPORT 2015/16 Welcome to New Plymouth District Council’s Annual Report for 2015/16. This Annual Report is our way of being accountable to you.
It sets out what we have achieved in the last year and looks at the progress we have made in providing the sort of district that you have told us is important to you.
This Annual Report compares our achievements and progress to what was planned to be achieved in our Long-Term Plan 2015-2025.
Under the Local Government Act 2002 all councils are required to produce an Annual Report and for certai information to be aduited. The audit has been completed successfully by Audit New Zealand and their audit opinion can be found on page XXX. Contents
Introduction From the Mayor and Chief Executive...... 2 Our services at a glance...... 4 Our role ...... 5 Governance structure...... 5 Who we are...... 6 What we stand for...... 8 Working together with Mäori...... 10 Financial summary...... 14 Benchmarks...... 18
Council Services Introduction to Council Services...... 25 Parks...... 26 Roads and Footpaths...... 29 Stormwater Drainage...... 33 Flood Protection and Control Works...... 35 Solid Waste and Refuse Collection...... 37 Water Supply...... 40 Wastewater Treatment...... 44 Emergency Management and Business Continuance...... 47 Community Development...... 49 Govett-Brewster Art Gallery...... 51 Puke Ariki and District Libraries...... 53 Recreation and Events...... 56 Regulatory Services...... 59 Economic Development...... 63 Civic and Democracy Services...... 65 Management of Investments and Funding...... 67 Funding from external sponsors...... 69
Financial Statements Statement of comprehensive revenue and expense...... 72 Statement of financial position...... 73 Statement of changes in equity...... 74 Statement of cash flows...... 75 Notes to the financial statements...... 76 Funding Impact Statements ...... 117
Council-controlled Organisations New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture...... 136 Forestry Joint Ventures...... 138 Taranaki Investment Management Limited...... 139 Tasmanian Land Company Limited...... 140 Venture Taranaki Trust...... 141
Auditor’s Report...... 145
Statement of Compliance and Responsibility...... 148 From the Mayor and Chief Executive
Change, big decisions and laying the foundations for a bright future were the key themes of the 12 months covered in this Annual Report.
We certainly ‘got off to a flyer’ with the opening of the combined Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre. Many years in the making, this spectacular home of contemporary art and the visionary works of Len Lye has already become a regional icon. We are extremely grateful for the work of those who imagined this project and the incredible fundraising efforts that transformed a dream into a reality.
Equally as significant, the beginning of the 2015/16 year saw work begin in earnest delivering on the District Blueprint, the spatial plan that will guide future decisions and how the Council plans and delivers its services to the community over the next 30 years. The Blueprint’s eight key directions provide a clear signal to other agencies, businesses, industry and the community on how we will focus our resources and deliver on our community outcomes.
The remainder of the 2015/16 year was packed with activity – some of which you’ll find listed below – culminating in a year-end $18.3 million surplus, thanks largely to a strong performance from the Perpetual Investment Fund.
Andrew Judd Barbara McKerrow New Plymouth District Mayor Chief Executive
The year at a glance July 2015 The Council’s new staff leadership structure is announced. Nine long-serving members of the community receive Citizens’ Awards, including a posthumous award for volunteer fire service member and Council employee Ron Millman. The All Blacks announce they’ll face Argentina at Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth in 2017. The combined Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre opens its doors to the public. NPDC discusses possible New Plymouth flights with Jetstar. August 2015 Yarrow Stadium hosts rugby and football in quick succession as the Port Taranaki Bulls match against Wellington is followed by the Wellington Phoenix versus New Zealand A. The Council moves to clarify regulations around the use of drone aircraft in public spaces. September 2015 Jetstar confirms it will start New Plymouth flights to and from Auckland in February 2016. Delivery of new rubbish bags begins ahead of new recycling kerbside collection service starting in October. TSB Bank announces it will continue to sponsor the Council’s Festival of Lights for another three years. October 2015 Animal control officers and parking wardens begin trialling body-worn cameras. The Council decides how to use the 2014/15 operational cash surplus, including $377,000 for storm damage repairs, $450,000 for the disaster recovery fund and $200,000 for preventative maintenance across the roading network. The district’s new kerbside rubbish and recycling collection service gets under way. The Council agrees to trial free Saturday parking from 7 November 2015 to 16 January 2016 in New Plymouth’s CBD. November 2015 Recycling doubles and waste to landfill halves after only six weeks of the new kerbside rubbish and recycling collection. The trial of free Saturday parking in New Plymouth’s CBD gets under way. The Council enters into a binding agreement for the sale of Tasman Farms. A surplus Council building is relocated to New Plymouth Airport where it will later become the terminal for Jetstar.
2 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 From the Mayor and Chief Executive
December 2015 Welbourn Primary becomes the tenth district school to have a 40km/h variable speed limit for road users. The ‘What Are You Missing?’ summer road safety campaign is launched. A new family of signs and rubbish bins are installed at Pukekura Park. The TSB Bank Festival of Lights kicks off on Boxing Day. January 2016 Puke Ariki’s mobile library service visits holiday hot spots including Urenui Holiday Park and Oakura Beach. An investigation of earthquake risk in central New Plymouth begins with the drilling of boreholes to gain a better understanding of the soil structure. New Zealand Transport Agency confirms funding for bypasses of Mount Messenger and the Awakino Tunnel. The PayMyPark smartphone app is launched, enabling cashless parking in New Plymouth’s CBD. February 2016 Jetstar commences New Plymouth flights to and from Auckland. A 12-week project to improve public safety on lower Carrington Street, New Plymouth begins. The Civic Centre flies the alternative New Zealand flag alongside the existing one, ahead of March’s flag referendum. An electrical fault at the Waitara pumping station results in some wastewater being discharged more than 1km out to sea. Dry weather sees water restrictions introduced across the district, and then heavy rain sees them lifted on the last day of the month. The Council’s sale of Tasman Farms to Moon Lake Investments is approved by Australia’s Foreign Investment Review Board. March 2016 The Council elects to consult on three key proposals for its 2016/17 Annual Plan. A review of the Council-controlled organisation Venture Taranaki Trust finds it is making a positive difference and there are opportunities to improve the strategic framework within which it operates. New legislation comes into force for all businesses selling food. Heavy rain causes surface flooding in the district, mostly in New Plymouth city. April 2016 Pukekura Park is confirmed as a Garden of National Significance for a further three years. Public consultation begins on the Annual Plan 2016/17. Public consultation begins on a proposed Local Bill concerning the Waitara endowment lands. May 2016 Phase two of major upgrades to the New Plymouth Wastewater Treatment Plant begins. The Todd Energy Aquatic Centre holds its inaugural Pooches’ Party, for dogs and their owners. The Council receives a record number of public submissions - 1,389 - to an annual plan. The Shaping Our City programme to refresh and revitalise New Plymouth’s CBD gets under way. June 2016 It is announced that Wellington Phoenix and Western Sydney Wanderers will take part in Yarrow Stadium’s first ever A-League football match, in February 2017. Remote-controlled Spider mowers are introduced in parks and reserves for gradients more than 30 degrees. The new kerbside rubbish and recycling services receives a big tick of approval in the Council’s annual customer satisfaction survey. Greater support for leaseholders is among amendments made to the local Bill concerning the Waitara endowment lands. The Council purchases Te Kohia Pa, where the first shots were fired in the First Taranaki War in 1840. The cricket pitch at Pukekura Park is named the country’s best at National Turf Conference Awards.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 3 Our Services at a Glance
This is New Plymouth District We support: Spanning an area of 2,324km2 95 dogs being re-homed every year Home to 74,184 people We collect: 5,000 tonnes of recycling and Population growth of 7.7% since 2006 8,500 tonnes of refuse at the kerbside each year
We operate: We maintain: We provide: 4 multi-purpose recreation, sport and 1,111km of sealed roads 49 playgrounds entertainment venues 168km of unsealed roads 24 sports parks 6 libraries and a mobile library bus service 532km of footpaths 9 skate park sites that service 54,850 library members 82km of walkways, including 5 swimming pools 1 art gallery 12.7km of coastal walkway 6 camping grounds 10 cemeteries and 1 regional crematorium 36 neighbourhood reserves 54 public toilets 5 transfer stations and 1 regional landfill 1,525 hectares of park and 35.4 litres of drinking water a day 20 water reservoirs with a total capacity of reserve land 3 63,000m 11 urban halls 4 water treatment plants 34 pump stations and 704km of sewers servicing more than 25,200 properties
4 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Our Role and Governance Structure
Our Role The Council is made up of 15 elected members - the Mayor and 14 councillors representing three wards (New Plymouth City, North and South-West). The Mayor’s role includes leading the development of plans, policies and budgets for the consideration of councillors.
Community boards represent and advocate for the interests of local communities. The Council has four community boards representing Clifton, Inglewood, Kaitake and Waitara.
The Council, its standing committees and community boards meet on a six-weekly cycle as required. The standing committees have delegated authority from the Council to make final decisions on certain matters and they make recommendations to the Council on all others.
There are also a number of subcommittees: • Audit & Risk. • Community Funding Investment. • Creative Communities Advisory. • District Licensing. • Finance. • Len Lye. • Performance Review. • Yarrow Stadium Joint Committee.
Governance Structure
Council (Mayor and 14 councillors)
Subcommittees Community Boards
Monitoring Committee Policy Committee Regulatory Committee
Chairperson: Chairperson: Chairperson: Cr Craig McFarlane Cr Gordon Brown Cr Shaun Biesiek
Standing committees and their objectives: Monitoring Committee: Ensures effective and efficient implementation of the Long-Term Plan, Annual Plan, Annual Report, delivery of services and asset management in accordance with the approved plans and policies.Monitors the Council’s performance, progress and financial position against, and ensures all activities comply with, legislation, strategies, policies and plans. Policy Committee: Develops strategies, policies and plans for the Council to promote the district’s Community Outcomes and priorities and considers matters that are not the function of another committee. Regulatory Committee: Ensures effective and efficient exercise of statutory regulatory functions, implementation of the District Plan and enforcement of the Council’s bylaws, regulations and policies. Oversees, coordinates and directs the development and review of the District Plan.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 5 Who We Are
Mayor and Councillors
Mayor Andrew Judd Deputy Mayor Cr Keith Allum Cr Shaun Biesiek Heather Dodunski MNZM, JP New Plymouth City Ward New Plymouth City Ward New Plymouth City Ward
Cr Gordon Brown Cr Murray Chong Cr Grant Coward Cr Harry Duynhoven New Plymouth City Ward New Plymouth City Ward New Plymouth City Ward New Plymouth City Ward
Cr Richard Handley Cr Colin Johnston Cr Richard Jordan Cr Craig McFarlane New Plymouth City Ward North Ward South-West Ward North Ward
Cr Marie Pearce Cr Howie Tamati Cr Roy Weaver South-West Ward New Plymouth City Ward New Plymouth City Ward
6 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Who We Are
Community Board Members
Clifton Community Board Kaitake Community Board Ken Bedford (Chairperson) Doug Hislop (Chairperson) John Hill Paul Coxhead Judy Ransom JP Mike Pillette Elaine Selby Keith Plummer
Inglewood Community Board Waitara Community Board Phillip Rowe (Chairperson) Joe Rauner (Chairperson) Jenny Bunn Trevor Dodunski Donald McIntyre Andrew Larsen Kevin Rowan Bill Simpson
The Executive Team The Council’s Executive and Council staff implement Council decisions and manage the district’s day-to-day operations.
Barbara McKerrow Alan Bird Sue Davidson Chief Executive Chief Financial Officer Chief Operating Officer
Liam Hodgetts Gaye Batty Andrea Smith Group Manager Strategy Business Transformation Manager Group Manager (Project Management Office) Organisational Development
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 7 What We Stand For
In preparing its LTP the Council adopted a new strategic Liaison Group and online chats with the Mayor. The strong framework to guide decision making, planning and message from our community was that New Plymouth development of strategy and policy. The framework District offers a great lifestyle and we need to value what consists of the Shaping Our Future Together (SOFT) we have. Residents said the Council has a key leadership vision, outcomes and principles and the Blueprint. role to play in articulating a vision for the district and working in partnership with the community to keep the The SOFT engagement programme included community district progressing in line with public priorities. conversations with the public in urban centres throughout the district, with community groups, leaders, a CBD
8 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 What We Stand For
The Blueprint supports the implementation of the focus for planning during the next 30 years. The eight SOFT vision and will help guide Council decision key directions provide a clear signal to other agencies, making to deliver more integrated social, economic businesses, industries and the community on how and environmental community outcomes. The Blueprint the Council will focus its resources and deliver on the contains eight key directions that will be the Council’s community outcomes.
Blueprint Key Directions
Champion a thriving central city for all Enable engaged and resilient citizens New Plymouth CBD is the commercial hub Engaging and enabling citizens of the region. However, job growth has helps build community resilience. been focussed in our northern industrial Providing events in our parks and open areas rather than the CBD. Providing a spaces and building strong strategic thriving CBD will increase retail experiences partnerships with the community and grow small business opportunities. enables community connectedness and leads to more sustainable social, economic and environmental outcomes.
Strengthen and connect local communities Become a world-class destination Strengthening and connecting local A world-class destination, using both communities ensures that they become our natural and man-made attractions, successful, safe and liveable environments will create employment and tourism for residents. Providing high-quality opportunities as well as acting as infrastructure within local communities helps a lightning rod for attracting new to support business and industry initiatives. businesses and talent to New Plymouth.
Enhance the natural environment with Direct a cohesive growth strategy that biodiversity links and clean waterways strengthens the city and townships The district has a unique natural New growth areas are required to environment with significant areas of respond to growing population trends indigenous vegetation, and rivers and within the district. Identifying where waterways that flow from the mountain these growth areas are and ensuring to the sea. Enhancing biodiversity and there is adequate land supply and collaborating with landowners will help network infrastructure available is achieve biodiversity outcomes. essential in planning for these areas.
Strengthen and manage rural economy, Grow and diversify new economies industry, the port and the airport that attract and retain entrepreneurs, New economies are the basis for a more talented workers and visitors resilient economy, and to do this we need to This key direction supports our attract and retain businesses and talented existing strengths as an economy. This workers. includes the provision of appropriate infrastructure and ensuring our regulatory frameworks support businesses.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 9 Working Together with Maori
Section 81 of the Local Government Act 2002 requires the Council to outline how it provides opportunities for Mäori to participate in Council decision-making. This section explains the current arrangements that the Council has to support this requirement and the additional steps that are needed to progress this objective.
The Council acknowledges the six iwi that are tangata whenua of the district: • Ngäti Maniapoto. • Ngäti Maru. • Ngäti Mutunga. • Ngäti Tama. • Taranaki. • Te Ätiawa.
Within the six iwi, there are 11 recognised hapü within New Plymouth District: • Ngä Hapü o Poutama. • Manukorihi. • Ngä Mahanga. • Ngäti Tairi. • Ngäti Rahiri. • Ngäti Tawhirikura. • Ngäti Te Whiti. • Ngäti Tuparikino. • Otaraua. • Pukerangiora. • Puketapu.
Note. Ngā Hapū o Poutama also claim interests in land between Ngāti Maniapoto and Ngāti Tama and the expectation of Council is that the Waitangi Tribunal report that will be issued as a result of the Ngāti Maniapoto hearings will assist Council in recognising the appropriate mana whenua group or groups for this area.
10 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Working Together With Maori
The Council engages with Mäori throughout all of its day to day operations, but also has a number of commitments at a strategic level to support the development of Mäori capacity to participate more fully and effectively in the decision- making processes of the Council. However, the Council acknowledges that there are ways in which the Council can improve its relationships with Mäori to enable more effective participation in Council operations and processes.
The Council adopted a new strategic framework in November 2014. The strategic framework has been developed in response to feedback received from the Council’s Shaping Our Future Together community engagement programme. The strategic vision “Manaaki • tängata • whenua • Ngämotu” is supported by community outcomes and principles. One of the key principles “Valuing Te Ao Mäori” guides the Council to value the Mäori world view during Council decision- making processes.
Staff resources Underpinning the Council’s commitment to the effective engagement of Mäori in decision-making is the provision of dedicated staff and other resources to support, advocate on behalf of and guide the Council’s interactions with Mäori. The purpose of this staff resource is to increase Mäori cultural awareness in the Council, foster greater understanding and appreciation of Mäori issues and facilitating opportunities for Mäori to participate in Council decision-making.
Many staff work alongside tangata whenua as part of their day to day work.
Policy In 2009, the Council adopted an internal Mäori Capacity and Development Policy. The policy sets out:
• The responsibilities of the Council as a good employer. • The development of knowledge and ability to be confident and proactive when engaging with Mäori to meet legislative responsibilities. • The provision of culturally appropriate customer service and service delivery. • Agreements reached between iwi/hapü and the Council as a result of Treaty of Waitangi settlements are recognised and understood. Committees and forums Participation of Mäori in Council decision-making Komiti Mäori is an official committee of the Council and comprises five councillors and six tangata whenua representatives. Komiti Mäori has been in recess since 2013, awaiting the outcome of further discussion and engagement with iwi. In September 2014 the Council voted to establish a Māori Ward within the district. In February 2015, a petition was received by the Council which forced a binding referendum on the establishment of a Māori Ward as allowed for in the Local Electoral Act. The results of that poll held during April and May 2015 overturned the Council’s decision to establish a Māori Ward.
Since 2014 meetings between the iwi chairpersons, the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and the Council committee chairpersons have been held on a regular basis to discuss and agree on methods for better participation and engagement of iwi Mäori in Council decision-making processes. The full Council and Iwi Leaders have recently participated in two workshops with an independent facilitator to work towards and agree on more formal processes for iwi participation. The outcome of these workshops will be presented to the September 2016 Council meeting.
Tangata whenua representatives can be appointed to the Council’s subcommittees as required.
Ngä Kaitiaki The Council is required to review and prepare a District Plan no later than every 10 years. To assist the Council with this process, and to ensure that there is a high level of input from tangata whenua, the Council has established Ngā Kaitiaki consisting of mandated iwi and hapū representatives who are reviewing the District Plan and providing their expertise to ensure the plan incorporates a Te Ao Māori (Māori world) perspective. To do this, the Council has also resourced an independent planner, chosen by Ngā Kaitiaki, to work with them and provide the technical lens to interpret and translate a Māori world perspective on district planning issues such as urban growth and coastal management. This input will inform the new District Plan provisions through its objectives, policies and methods.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 11 Working Together with Maori
Waahi Tapu Review
The Council has also been undertaking a waahi tapu and archaeological site review since 2007. The Council established a Waahi Tapu Reference Group consisting of mandated iwi and hapū representatives who are resourced to work alongside Council staff to achieve the aim of the review. The intention is to ensure that waahi tapu sites are correctly located within the District Plan and that any new sites identified by the hapū have been added. In the last year the Council has been through the first of a series of plan changes to correct site locations and add new sites.
Other policies, liaison, agreements or memoranda with Maori Airport Project The Council is currently undertaking a project to renovate the airport terminal building which is no longer fit for purpose due to the large number of passengers using the terminal and the new security measures required. The land on which the airport is located is within the rohe of Puketapu Hapū and was taken under the Public Works Act for the airport. The hapū have a strong association with the airport land which was once the location of the significant Puketapu Pā. The Council has been working with the hapū to ensure they are involved in the planning and design for the terminal. A two day workshop with Puketapu, architects and project members was held to develop a design brief for the project. The hapū are currently working directly with the architects to ensure the terminal design reflects the cultural, historical and traditional components of Puketapu Hapū. Puke Ariki Kaumätua Committee Kaumätua Kaunihera o ngä Whare Taonga o Puke Ariki was established in 2004. This committee is a group of kaumätua from around Taranaki who advise Puke Ariki on issues pertaining to Mäori, the taonga Mäori collection and tikanga. Te Kaumätua Kaunihera o ngä Whare Taonga o Puke Ariki is open to all kaumätua of Taranaki and meets monthly.
Puke Ariki collections plan As part of the Council’s Puke Ariki collections plan, Puke Ariki will always endeavour to consult with the appropriate Mäori community when a decision is to be made regarding a particular taonga or group of taonga.
Puke Ariki exhibitions Puke Ariki has a long-term gallery (Takapou Whäriki) specifically telling the story of iwi from around Mount Taranaki. A major on-going project to refresh the long-term galleries has commenced and as stories are developed, iwi will have an opportunity to participate in this process to ensure content meets their needs.
Management of reserve lands The Te Rewa Rewa Management Committee (TRRMC), comprising of trustees from Ngäti Tawhirikura A Hapü Trust and the Council has been established as a partnership to meet the aims and aspirations of the hapü and the Council with regard to the Te Rewa Rewa Reserve. TRRMC has established a strategic vision, a strategic intent and a set of guiding principles as the foundation document for the group.
A management plan is being developed by the committee to provide for the ongoing day-to-day management of the reserve and to plan for public access via a pedestrian bridge over the Waiwhakaiho River and walkway extension. The committee is resourced by the Council.
Engagement with Mäori The Significance and Engagement Policy sets out the Council’s commitment to engage with tangata whenua on any issue that is likely to affect them, or on any matter where they have an interest. As part of the Council’s operations, engagement is undertaken on a regular basis in the following key (but not exclusive) areas: Long-Term Plan, District Plan, Coastal Strategy, Annual Plan, regulatory and environmental management, roading, heritage, walkways and reserves. Engagement usually takes place in the form of hui with district iwi and hapü or their representatives.
Funding support The Council recognises that the ability of Mäori to take part in the decision-making process is in part constrained by funding, particularly with regards to resource management issues, where access to expert or scientific advice or legal opinion is a costly and complex exercise. In acknowledgment of these costs, some funding is available to support tangata whenua engagement in resource management issues.
12 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Working Together With Maori
Resources are also made available to support the maintenance of marae through a Marae Grants Policy and a Built, Cultural and Natural Heritage Protection Fund.
Marae development plans Marae Development Plans are asset/strategic plans for marae which support their communities to plan for the protection and development of their marae now and into the future. This project is funded jointly by the Council and Te Puni Kökiri, with nine of the 10 district marae participating. The project commenced in 2006 and in 2011 marae development plans were completed for the nine participating district marae.
In 2012 the marae trustees began to work together to develop a forward plan to support the iwi/hapü/marae to access external funds to support marae development from both the Council and other funding bodies. In 2014 the Council began to explore Stage 3 of the project involving completing the development aspects of the plans.
Treaty settlements Four iwi within New Plymouth District, Ngäti Tama, Ngäti Mutunga, Te Ätiawa, and Taranaki have settled their Treaty of Waitangi claims with the Crown although in some instances legislation to implement the settlement is still going through the parliamentary decision making process. Ngäti Maru has received official mandate from the Crown to progress their claim and have established a negotiating team to work on behalf of the iwi. .
The Crown held hearings for the Ngāti Maniapoto Treaty claim during 2015/16. While the boundary of this iwi is generally recognised as the Mokau River, the iwi also claims interests in land south of the river and into the rohe of Ngāti Tama.
Ngäruahine, a South Taranaki iwi, signed a deed of settlement with the Crown in June 2014. The Ngäruahine area of interest includes some land within New Plymouth District. There is currently a limited relationship between the Council and Ngäruahine.
The settlement legislation highlights certain areas as places where an iwi has a statutory interest and obligates the Council to consider those interests and any opportunities for that iwi to be involved when notifying resource consents in those areas, and to include information about those statutory areas in its District Plan.
Settlement of the Treaty claims provides opportunities for meaningful participation of local iwi in all aspects of community decision-making, and the Iwi Relationships Team aims to work with iwi following settlement to develop a memorandum of understanding to guide the relationship.
In addition a Post Settlement Commitments Unit has been established by the Crown. The unit is developing a database with input from local authorities which will assist the Council in monitoring all legislative requirements as a result of settlements.
Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) In June 2009, the Council signed a MoU with Te Runanga o Ngäti Mutunga. The Council is continuing to work with iwi/ hapü to explore the opportunities to develop individual memoranda of understanding. The objectives of these MoUs are set out the parameters of the relationship and principles of engagement between the iwi/hapü and the Council. This year the Council and Ngāti Mutunga identified two key projects that they wish to progress as part of the MOU and work is currently being undertaken to scope out those projects.
The Council has also agreed to establish MoUs with Ngāti Tawhirikura and Puketapu Hapū.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 13 Financial Summary
The following pages provide an overview of the Council’s and the Group’s financial performance for the year ended 30 June 2016.
Overall results at a glance The Council enjoyed a strong financial performance, recording a surplus of $18.3 million which was considerably higher than the budget surplus of $6.1m. The Council had both higher revenue and expenditure than budget of $21.5m and $9.3m respectively. The two main drivers of the higher revenue are the strong performance of the Perpetual Investment Fund (PIF) and higher vested assets. The main drivers of the higher expenditure are attributable to the PIF and non-cash accounting adjustments. Further commentary on these items follows below.
PIF investment The PIF achieved a 9.48% per annum return and finished the year up $16.9m to $270.2m after payment of releases and costs of $12.6m for the year. This increase in value is largely due to the sale of Tasman Farms investment at a favourable price.
The sale of Tasman Farms Limited was settled on 31 March 2016. The funds from the sale of the farms will be returned over time to the PIF’s asset allocation portfolio which is designed for a long term investment horizon and matches the multigenerational perpetual mandate of the PIF.
Since inception the PIF has paid $188.4m in release payments to the Council and achieved an annual return of 6.8% per annum.
The expected return over the next four years is 6.0% per annum and the following five years is 7.6% per annum.
Where the money came from Operating revenue of $126.8m is $3.8m higher than budget. The Council received $1.3m above budget of forestry harvesting revenue as a result of higher harvesting activity than anticipated. Council also received more revenue than budgeted in areas of venues (due to increased events during the year), regulatory services (due to higher volumes of consents) and solid waste (due to revenue recovery from the new recycling centre).
In 2015/16 rates accounted for 49% of the Council’s funding (2015: 42%).
The Council receives income from a variety of sources, including the PIF, capital expenditure funding, fees and user charges. The graph below shows the revenue from these different sources.
REVENUE BY CATEGORY 2015/16 $ MILLIONS Development & financial contributions 1%
Fines & levies 1%
Vested assets 4%
Grants & subsidies 7%
Investment & interest 17%
Fees & charges 21%
Rates 49%
14 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Financial Summary
Rates collection The Council’s Rates Team work hard to ensure all rates are collected and acccounted for. As in previous years, the Council has achieved an excellent collection record, collecting 99% (2015: 99%) of rates and 77% (2015: 81%) of rates arrears.
Residential median rate The residential median rate (including GST) increased by 4.8% during the year (2015: decreased by 0.3%).
MEDIAN RATE (including GST)
2016 $1,935
2015 $1,846
2014 $1,851
$ 0 500 1,000 1,500 2,000 Where the money goes Operating expenditure of $132.6m is $4.1m higher than budget. This increase reflects non-cash accounting adjustments such as impairment, loss on revaluation of interest rate swaps and loss on sale of assets which were higher than budgeted for. The graph below shows where the money was spent by Council activity. It excludes the PIF and other costs. EXPENDITURE BY COUNCIL ACTIVITY 2015/16 ($)
2.8m 2.7m m = MILLION Economic Development Stormwater
3.2m Community Partnerships 22.1m 4.8m Roads & Footpaths Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre 5.5m Management of Investments & Funding 5.7m 16.1m Civic & Democracy Wastewater
5.9m 14.8m Solid Waste Parks Management
10.3m 12.7m Recreation & Events Regulatory Services 10.4m Water 11.0m Puke Ariki & District Libraries
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 15 Financial Summary
Our liabilities and assets Our financial position remains strong with the Council’s external borrowings reducing by $3.6m during the year and are forecast to have minimal growth over the next ten years. The graph below shows the Council’s debt levels over the past five years.. COUNCIL DEBT LEVELS AT 30 JUNE
2016 $110.0 m m = MILLION
2015 $113.7 m
2014 $111.0 m
2013 $110.4 m
2012 $104.4 m
m - 20 40 60 80 100 120
During the year the Council added $32m of new assets through its renewal and capital works programme. This covered all activities within our district. The graph below shows the breakdown of capital expenditure by category.
ALLOCATION OF CAPITAL WORKS SPEND 2015/16
Airport Runway/Services $0.4 m m = MILLION Vehicles $1.1 m
Stormwater $1.3 m
Book and Museum Collection $1.4 m
Furniture Fittings and Equipment $2.4 m
Water $2.6 m
Wastewater $3.0 m
Solid Waste $3.1 m
Buildings and Improvements $3.4 m
Land $3.6 m
Roading $10.2 m
m 0 2 4 6 8 10 12
ALLOCATION OF COUNCIL ASSETS
Vehicles $3.1 m = MILLION Furniture, Fittings and Equipment $5.4 Airport Runway/Services $6.2 Solid Waste $8.1 Work In Progress $12.6 Book and Museum Collection $45.2 Water $150.6 Stormwater $167.6 Buildings and Improvements $189.2 Wastewater $211.8 Land $274.1 Roading $1,068.7 m 0 200 400 600 800 1,000 1,200
16 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Financial Summary
Summary Financial Statements
Summary Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense
Council Group 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Budget Actual Actual Actual $m $m $m $m $m Operating Revenue (excluding PIF) 126.8 123.0 128.1 230.5 128.1 Perpetual Investment Fund 29.5 11.7 44.2 7.2 7.5 Total operating revenue 156.3 134.7 172.3 237.7 135.7 Operating Expenditure (excluding PIF) 132.6 128.5 125.3 182.1 125.7 Perpetual Investment Fund 5.2 - 2.1 5.2 2.0 Total operating expenditure 137.8 128.5 127.4 187.3 127.7 Surplus/(deficit) before taxation 18.5 6.2 44.9 50.4 8.0 Taxation refund/(expense) 0.2 0.1 - (14.8) - SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) AFTER TAXATION FROM 18.3 6.1 44.9 35.6 8.0 CONTINUED OPERATIONS Surplus/(deficit) after taxation from discontinued operations - - - - 3.0 SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) AFTER TAXATION 18.3 6.1 44.9 35.6 11.0 Other comprehensive revenue and expense Gain/(loss) on property, plant and equipment revaluations 147.7 173.4 (0.2) 147.7 (0.2) Tax on other comprehensive revenue and expense - - - - 24.9 Foreign currency translation - - - (15.4) 6.5 Total other comprehensive revenue and expense 147.7 173.4 (0.2) 132.3 31.2 TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE REVENUE AND EXPENSE 166.0 179.5 44.7 167.9 42.2
Summary Statement of Financial Position
Council Group 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Budget Actual Actual Actual $m $m $m $m $m Current assets 64 60 232 283 328 Non-current assets 2,424 2,392 2,090 2,236 2,090 Total assets 2,488 2,452 2,322 2,519 2,418 Current liabilities 62 61 72 93 168 Non-current liabilities 83 82 74 83 74 Total liabilities 145 143 146 176 242 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITIES 2,488 2,452 2,322 2,519 2,418
Summary Statement of Cash Flows
Council Group 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Budget Actual Actual Actual $m $m $m $m $m Net cash flows from operating activities 28 25 37 26 39 Net cash flows from investing activities (31) (35) (29) 272 (29) Net cash flows from financing activities (4) 4 3 (74) 1 NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH (7) (6) 11 224 11 EQUIVALENTS
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 17 Benchmarks
The purpose of this benchmarking is to disclose the The Council sometimes borrows money to build Council’s financial performance in relation to various infrastructure that will service the community today and benchmarks to enable the assessment of whether the into the future. Council is prudently managing its revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities and general financial dealings. Borrowing reduces the rate burden on today’s community and spreads the cost on to the future The following graph compares the Council’s actual rates community as well. This ensures fairness and equity to income in actual dollars, compared to the quantified limit our current ratepayers. on rates contained in the Financial Strategy included in the Council’s LTP. Our LTP states that interest costs on external debt should be less than 12.5% of annual rates revenue. Actual rates have been below the quantified limit on Rates Income for the past three years. This is due to The Council’s external borrowings have remained ongoing Council efficiencies, thus rate requirements relatively stable over the last few years, with no have reduced from what was originally forecast in the significant requirement for further borrowing. Borrowing LTP 2012-2022 and LTP 2015-2025. Actual dollars in is less than forecast due to the timing of a number of 2012/13 were marginally higher, primarily due to efficient projects, in particular the growth-related projects in both collection. Bell Block residential zone (Area Q) and Bell Block industrial zone (Area N). Rates Affordability
$80,000 Debt Affordability $70,000 14.0% $60,000 12.0% $50,000 10.0% $40,000 8.0% $30,000 6.0% 4.0% Actual IncomeRates ($000) $20,000 2.0% $10,000 0.0% $0 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16
ActualInterest Costs/Rates Income (%) Year Year Quantified Limit on Rates Income LTP Actual Rates Income (at or within limit) Interest Costs to Rates Income (Limit) Actual Interest Cost to Rates income within limit Actual Rates Income (exceeds limit)
The Council’s Treasury Management Policy outlines Our LTP 2015-2025 states that total rate inreases various limits to which borrowings must be managed should be no more than 5.0% in any year. This limit was within. The following graphs illustrate each of the previously 7.0% (as per chart). There will be significant borrowing limits and Council’s actual performance for the pressure in the future years on rates due to increasing past five years. service levels. growth in the district an a reduced release from the PIF. The graph below shows the Council’s net external borrowings as a percentage of equity. Net external The average total rate requirement increase for the last borrowings are calculated as total external borrowings four years has been 3.5%. This is in line with the 10-year less any cash or near cash treasury investments held average increase in rate requirement of between 3.5% from time to time. The Council is consistently well within and 3.9% as per the LTP 2015-2025. the 20% limit of net external debt to equity.
Rates Increases Affordability Net Borrowings as a % of Equity 8.0% 25%
6.0% 20%
4.0% 15%
2.0% 10%
0.0% 5% ActualRates Increase (%) 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 0%
Year Actual Net Borrowings/Equity (%) 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Rate Increase Limit per LTP Actual Rates Increase within limit Year Actual Rates Increase exceeds limit Net Borrowings as a % of Equity (Limit) Actual Net Borrowings as a % of Equity (at or within limit)
18 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Benchmarks
The graph below shows Council’s net external The graph below shows the Council’s net interest borrowings as a percentage of income. Net external expense as a percentage of total income. Council is borrowings are calculated as total external borrowings consistently within the 10% limit of this measure. less any cash or near cash treasury investments held from time to time. Total operating revenue has been Net Interest as % of Income used as the income figure in this calculation. Council is 12% consistently well within the below the 135% limit of net 10% external debt to income. 8% Net Borrowings as a % of Income 6% 140% 4% 120% Actual Net Interest/Income (%) 2% 100% 80% 0% 60% 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Year 40%
20% Net interest as a % of income limit Net interest as a % of income actual 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16
Actual Net Borrowings/Income (%) Year
Net Borrowings as a % of Income (Limit) The graph below shows the Council’s net interest Actual Net Borrowings as a % of Income (at or within limit) expense as a percentage of total rates income. The Council is consistently within the 20% limit of this The graph below shows the Council’s ratio of Pre- measure. tax Funds Flow from Operations (FFO) compared to net interest expense. Pre-tax funds flow is calculated Net Interest as % of Annual Rates Income as total revenue, less capital receipts and other non 25% recurring revenues; less total expenditure net of any 20% capital payments and non recurring expenditure; plus 15% depreciation and increase in provisions. 10%
5% Pre-Tax Funds Flow From Operations (FFO) 0% to Net Interest Expense 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 12.4 Year 10.4 ActualNetInterest/Annual Rates Income (%) Net interest as a % of annual rates income limit 8.4 Net interest as a % of annual rates income actual 6.4 Interest 4.4 The graph below shows the Council’s liquidity (term 2.4 debt plus committed loan facilities plus cash or cash 0.4 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 equivalents) over existing external debt. This measure Year only commenced in the 2012/13 year hence only
Actual Pre Tax Funds Flow from Operations (FFO)/Net (FFO)/Net Operations from Flow Funds Tax Pre Actual four years of comparative information. The Council is Pre Tax Funds Flow from Operations (FFO) to Net Interest Expense Minimimum consistently greater than the minimum level of liquidity. Pre Tax Funds Flow from Operations (FFO) to Net Interest Expense Actual (above minimum) Pre Tax Funds Flow from Operations (FFO) to Net Interest Expense Actual (below minimum) Liquidity/Funding Risk (Access to Funds) 160% 140% 120% 100% 80% 60% 40% 20% 0% 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16
Liquidity/Funding Risk (Access to Funds) (%) Funds) to (Access Risk Liquidity/Funding Year
Liquidity/funding risk (access to funds) minimum Liquidity/funding risk (access to funds) actual
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 19 Benchmarks
The following graph displays the Council’s revenue The following graph displays the Council’s borrowing (excluding development contributions, financial costs as a proportion of revenue (excluding development contributions, vested assets, gains on derivative contributions, financial contributions, vested assets, instruments and revaluations of property, plant and gains on derivative instruments and revaluations of equipment) as a proportion of operating expenses property, plant or equipment). (excluding losses on derivative financial instruments and Because Statistics New Zealand projects the population revaluations of property, plant and equipment). will grow as fast as the national population growth rate, it meets the debt servicing benchmark if its borrowings The Council meets this benchmark if its revenue equals costs equal or are less than 10 per cent of its revenue. or is greater than its operating expenses. The primary reason for the benchmark not being met was the under- performance of the PIF during 2011/12 and 2012/13 Debt Servicing Benchmark relative to long-term targets with deficits of $4.5m and 12.0% $4.6m respectively. 10.0% 8.0%
6.0% Balanced Budget 4.9% 5.0% 4.5%
costs/revenue (%) 3.5% 3.8% 4.0% 1.4 135% 2.0% 1.3
Borrowing 0.0% 1.2 112% 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 1.1 104% Year 1 91% 92% 0.9 Benchmark met Revenue/expenditure (%) 0.8 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Year The following graph displays the Council’s actual net debt. In this statement, net debt means financial Benchmark met Benchmark not met liabilities less financial assets (excluding trade and other receivables). The Council meets the debt control benchmark if its actual net debt equals or is less than its The following graph displays the Council’s capital planned net debt. expenditure on network services as a proportion of depreciation on network services. The Council meets The benchmark was not met in 2011/12 due to a this benchmark if its capital expenditure on network reduction in the PIF balance. services is greater than depreciation on network services. 119% Debt Control Benchmark 1.2 Essential Services Benchmark 1.1 180.0% 170.4% 100% 1 160.0% 151.2% 140.2% 91% 140.0% 0.9 118.8% 120.0% 101.8% 0.8 79% (%) 100.0% 70% 0.7 80.0% (%) Debt Net Actual/Budgeted
60.0% 0.6
Capital expenditure/depreciation 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16 Year Year
Benchmark met Benchmark not met Within benchmark Benchmark exceeded
20 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Benchmarks
The following graph displays the Council’s actual net cash flow from operations as a proportion of its planned net cash flow from operations. The Council meets the operations control benchmark if its actual net cash flow from operations equals or is greater than its planned net cash flow from operations. On the occasions where the benchmark was not met this was primarily due to fluctuations in investment income.
Operations Control Benchmark 140% 129% 130% 120% 108% 110% 99.2% 100% 97.9% 100% 90% 80%
operations (%) operations 70% 60% 2011/12 2012/13 2013/14 2014/15 2015/16
Actual/budgeted net cash flow from flow cash net Actual/budgeted Year
Benchmark met Benchmark not met
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 INTRODUCTION 21 22 INTRODUCTION New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Council Services
Introduction to Council Services...... 25 Parks...... 26 Roads and Footpaths...... 29 Stormwater Drainage...... 33 Flood Protection and Control Works...... 35 Solid Waste and Kerbside Collection...... 37 Water Supply...... 40 Wastewater Treatment...... 44 Emergency Management and Business Continuance...... 47 Community Partnerships...... 49 Govett-Brewster Art Gallery...... 51 Puke Ariki and District Libraries...... 53 Recreation and Events...... 56 Regulatory Services...... 59 Economic Development...... 63 Civic and Democracy Services...... 65 Management of Investments and Funding...... 67 Funding from external sponsors...... 69
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 23
Introduction to Council Services
The Council is responsible for providing a wide range of services to the community. It delivers these services through 16 Council activities. The Council also carries out a number of internal functions, such as financial management and property maintenance, but the costs of these are respread over the 16 activities above. This is because services such as financial management are ‘inputs’ into the Council activities whereas the Council activities themselves are services actually received and used by the community.
In the following pages for each of the 16 council activities you’ll find information on what we deliver, why we do it, the significant challenges for the year, the level of service key performance indicator and performance information, and the cost of service statement for the year ended 30 June 2016. Each performance measure is given a rating of either achieved (indicated by a green circle) or not achieved (indicated by a red circle).
A number of performance measures are listed as NRB survey. The Council uses a variety of ways to find out residents’ opinions and to communicate Council decisions and programmes. The National Research Bureau (NRB) ‘Communitrak’ Survey is a survey carried out by approximately 30 local authorities throughout New Zealand. It is a means for local authorities to measure the satisfaction of their residents with the services the local authority provides. New Plymouth District Council has been conducting this survey since 1994.
The survey is carried out asking many of the same questions in each local authority. A random sample of 400 people based on the five community areas was used for New Plymouth District. The survey is conducted in a way that provides results which have a margin of error of plus or minus five per cent given a 95 per cent level of confidence. This means that if 100 samples were taken, we would expect the margin error to contain the true value in all but five samples. The satisfaction levels indicated include the removal of those people who did not have a view on satisfaction or dissatisfaction or simply did not know due to not using the facility or service. Removing the “don’t knows” from the calculation enables better comparison between our activities, allowing for more informed Council decision-making. However, we have also included the satisfaction measure including “don’t knows” for transparency.
What we did While many of the 16 Council activities relate to legislation, they all contribute to the community outcomes and the Council’s strategic direction. The table below identifies the community outcomes to which each Council activity contributes to.
Our Economy Our Our Community Council Service Environment Parks Roads and Footpaths Stormwater Drainage Flood Protection and Control Works Solid Waste and Kerbside Collection Water Supply Wastewater Treatment Emergency Management and Business Continuance Community Partnerships Govett-Brewster Art Gallery Puke Ariki and District Libraries Recreation and Events Regulatory Services Economic Development Civic and Democracy Services Management of Investments and Funding
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 25 Parks
Responsibility Manager Parks and Open Spaces
What we deliver The Council’s Parks service provides a group of services which plans, manages and maintains: • 1,525ha of park and reserve land. • 82km of walkways, including 12.7km of coastal walkway. • Forty-seven playgrounds. • Nine skate park sites. • Twenty-four sports parks for use by residents and visitors.
This service also manages: • Fourteen community halls. • Six camping grounds. • Fifty-four public toilets. • Ten operational cemeteries. • One regional crematorium. • Brooklands Zoo. • Public art and monuments.
Why we do it The Parks service delivers a wide range of community outcomes. Parks supports the Our Community outcome of fostering pride and a collective sense of identity through the provision of sports parks and community halls for community interaction, and a great Taranaki lifestyle through recreation and leisure opportunities. We also build a strong, resilient community that values diversity by allowing for community spaces. Parks bolster the Our Economy outcome of an economy supported by a diverse range of industry by providing opportunities for the tourism sector through camping grounds and leisure and sports parks. Also, through the beautification and maintenance of the district’s streetscapes, we provide attractive locations for business in the central city and other business areas, positive experiences for visitors and adding to the quality of life for local residents Parks is also crucial to the Our Environment outcome of making an environment that is liveable for our communities through providing leisure and recreation opportunities.
The cultural well-being of residents and community groups are supported through the provision and maintenance of community halls.
The Parks service adds to the art and cultural value of the district through the installation and care of public art works, monuments and heritage sites.
Significant challenges during the year • Delivering projects within timeframes subject to seasonal weather.
• Long summer resulting in an extended growing season. • Providing support to the Venues and Events Team for the additional projects that occurred, e.g. cricket, soccer, rugby league changeovers.
26 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Parks
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Maintain the quality of the district’s parks, reserves and open spaces. Percentage of community satisfied 95% 96% (95% including don’t 97% (96% including don’t with the quality of the district’s know responses). know responses). parks and reserves (NRB survey). Percentage of community satisfied 95% 93% (92% including don’t 92% (91% including don’t with the quality of the district’s know responses). know responses). urban landscapes and streets (NRB survey). Percentage of community satisfied 95% 96% (82% including don’t 97% (83% including don’t with the quality of the district’s know responses). know responses). sports parks (NRB survey). Percentage of community satisfied 95% 93% (79% including don’t 94% (78% including don’t with the quality of the district’s know responses). know responses). playgrounds (NRB survey). Percentage of visitors satisfied 90% 97% from user 100% from user with the quality of the Brooklands satisfaction survey. satisfaction survey. Zoo. Maintain access to open spaces and the natural environment, including rivers, lakes, the mountain and the coast. Percentage of community 95% 98% (96% including don’t 98% (95% including don’t satisfied with access to the natural know responses). know responses). environment (NRB survey). Percentage of households 71% 76%. living within 500 metres of a New measure neighbourhood open space. Maintain the quality of the district’s public toilets. Percentage of community satisfied 70% 80% (67% including don’t 83% (71% including don’t with the quality of the district’s know responses). know responses) public toilets (NRB survey). Provide opportunity for community participation in caring for, and engagement with, the district environment e.g. Friends of Pukekura Park, Arbor Day etc. Number of volunteer hours per 10,000 hours 6,150 hours. Public 8,453 hours - target 7,500 year. planting days did not hours. occur this year. Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Annual work Annual work programme Annual work programme time. programme achieved. achieved. achieved Major projects are completed Annual work Annual work programme Annual work programme within budget. programme achieved within budget. achieved within budget. achieved within budget
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 27 Parks
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity Expenditure Premier parks and foreshore 4,224 4,438 4,438 4,174 Parks and streetscape 7,369 7,715 7,715 7,207 Cemeteries and crematorium 1,298 1,452 1,452 1,312 Sports parks, playgrounds, camping grounds and public halls 1,685 1,740 1,740 1,772 Works for third parties 89 97 97 270 Total activity expenditure 1 14,665 15,442 15,442 14,735 Activity revenue Premier parks and foreshore (619) (583) (583) (610) Parks and streetscape (138) (42) (42) (169) Cemeteries and crematorium (895) (879) (879) (1,039) Sports parks, playgrounds, camping grounds and public halls (316) (291) (291) (330) Works for third parties (90) (97) (97) (269) Total activity revenue 2 (2,058) (1,892) (1,892) (2,417) Net cost of operations 12,607 13,550 13,550 12,318 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 3 1,475 2,466 1,991 1,351 Service level improvements 4 1,286 634 314 597 Growth 5 653 707 126 327 Total capital expenditure 3,414 3,807 2,431 2,275
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Savings through organisation efficiency projects. 2. Additional third party work primarily for New Plymouth Airport. 3. Minor renewal projects not yet completed. 4. Purchase of Te Kohia Pa land. 5. Mangapouri cemetery development project carried forward from 2014/15.
28 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Roads and Footpaths
Responsibility Manager Transportation
What we deliver The Council’s Roads and Footpaths service maintains, renews and develops roads, kerbs and channels, bridges, street lighting, footpaths and traffic management for all roads (except state highways) in the district.
This service covers: • 1,286.7km of roads. • 267 bridges. • 8,299 street lights. • 10,929 traffic signs. • Five tunnels.
Why we do it As part of the Our Economy outcome of an economy built on sustainable management of economic resources, we deliver roads and footpaths to provide a public access network to key facilities for industries. Roads and Footpaths Service also delivers on the Our Environment outcome of an environment that is liveable for our community, by providing key linkages and transport routes.
The service enables the effective, efficient and safe movement of people, goods and services around the district.
The Roads and Footpaths service is also an essential part of sustainable development which enhances the natural and built environments, supports economic development and enriches the cultural and social life of New Plymouth District communities.
Significant challenges during the year • A significant flooding event on 19 and 20 June 2015 caused damage resulting in a cost of approximately $2.8m. Inspection, design, consultation, consenting and construction of flood damage repairs needed to be completed by 30 June 2016 to maximise funding assistance. • Maintaining roads to good operational standard within existing budgets for vegetation control and street clearing due to long growing season combining with high leaf fall.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 29 Roads and Footpaths
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Provide a safe local roading network for road users. The change from the previous Reduction by 19 (12 in 2014/15). The financial year in the number one factors contributing to of fatalities and serious injury these crashes are outside New measure crashes on the local road network, the control of the local expressed as a number. authority. Provide a quality local roading network that is smooth to travel on. The average quality of ride on 88% 90%. 90%. a sealed local road network measured by smooth travel exposure. Provide an appropriately maintained sealed local roading network. The percentage of the sealed local 6% 7%. road network that is resurfaced. New measure (Target based on reseal cycle of 16.5 years.) Provide a quality footpath network that is safe for users. The percentage of footpaths within 95% 97%. the district that fall within the level New measure of service or service standard for the condition of footpaths that is set out in the Roading Asset Management Plan. (Target based on current condition ratings.) Respond to requests within an acceptable timeframe. The percentage of customer 95% 97% based on 4,600 service requests relating to roads customer service requests New measure and footpaths to which the Council responds within the specified timeframe.1 Provide a quality cycle network that is safe for users. Percentage of community 80% 85% (67% including don’t 87% (69% including don’t (including cyclists) satisfied with know responses). know responses) - target the quality and safety of the 85%. district’s cycle network (NRB Survey). Provide a quality roading network for users. Percentage of community satisfied 84% 83% (82% including don’t 89% (89% including don’t with the district’s quality of roads know responses). know responses) - target overall (NRB Survey). 85%. Percentage of community satisfied 85% 85% (84% including don’t 89% (87% including don’t with the ability to drive around the know responses). know responses) - target district quickly, easily and safely 90%. (NRB Survey). Results influenced by performance of state highways.
30 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Roads and Footpaths
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Annual work Part achieved - LED Part achieved - Let’s time. programme lighting procured but not Go Project. Design and achieved installed. implementation delays for some infrastructure Achieved - completion of improvements. Let’s Go projects. Achieved - land purchase Achieved - land purchase for road widening. for road widening.
Part achieved - Part achieved - subdivision contributions. subdivision contributions. Significant component Significant component was related to growth was related to growth Area Q (Bell Block) Area Q (Bell Block) and did not proceed as and did not proceed as anticipated as it was anticipated as it was dependent on commercial dependent on commercial activity by others. activity by others. Part achieved - Bell Not achieved - Bell Block Bypass associated Block Bypass associated roading improvements. roading improvements. Remainder dependent on Remainder dependent on commercial development commercial development by others. by others. Major projects are completed Annual work Annual work programme Annual work programme within budget. programme significantly achieved achieved within budget. achieved within within budget with budget exception of: - Lower spend this year on rehabilitation. Works designed and ready for next year. Additional reseal length achieved within budget. - Part achieved - festive lighting renewals not spent this year. Longer term design and strategy underway to revamp festive and amenity lighting. - Dust coat seals not achieved this year. Sites identified and prioritised.
1 Service request timeframes: one day for an electrical fault with traffic signals, flooding, diesel spills, chemical spills or a slip to be cleared; three days for street lighting faults and potholes; five days for traffic counts, bus shelter repairs, road marking enquiries, culvert maintenance, rubbish bins, reinstatement of footpaths and debris in the roadside channel; 10 days for road surface faults, kerb and channel repairs, new kerb and channel, missing road signs and vegetation clearing. Target based on previous performance measure.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 31 Roads and Footpaths
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 22,132 21,785 21,585 22,281 Activity revenue 1 (10,049) (12,311) (9,495) (9,670) Net cost of operations 12,083 9,474 12,090 12,611 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 7,884 11,979 7,745 8,210 Service level improvements 2 3,186 4,385 1,655 2,391 Growth 525 1,993 432 404 Total capital expenditure 3 11,595 18,357 9,832 11,005
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Additional NZTA subsidies received for 2015 storm damage rectification works.
2. Junction Road works funded from reserve (no rate impact).
3. Significant roading resources utilised on 2015 storm damage rectification. Several projects will be carried forward to 2016/17, e.g. LED streetlights, Bell Block Bypass.
32 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Stormwater Drainage
Responsibility Manager Water and Wastes
What we deliver The Council’s Stormwater Drainage service collects, manages and disposes of stormwater run-off from around 6,600ha of urban area covering New Plymouth, Bell Block, Waitara, Inglewood, Urenui, Onaero, Lepperton, Egmont Village, Öäkura and Okato. This includes the operation and maintenance of engineered wetlands and 280km of stormwater pipes.
Why we do it Stormwater drainage contributes to the Our Environment outcome by managing stormwater run-off in urban areas, which supports the environment through sustainable management and protection of natural resources. The service recognises and plans for future challenges to the environment, e.g. the potential consequences of climate change and increased rainfall on urban environments (such as increased flood risk). Stormwater drainage also promotes an environment that is liveable for our community by reducing the flood risk, enabling residents to continue with their daily lives after a significant rainfall event.
The service protects people and property from the effects of stormwater run-off and localised flooding.
Significant challenges during the year • Keeping kerb and channel and sumps clear of debris within current levels of service.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Protection of habitable floor levels from one per cent storm event. Number of flooding events that 0 One event on 17 March occur each year which result in 2016 resulted in two floors New measure flooding of a habitable floor. being flooded, one at Govett Avenue and one at Devon St West. We are investigating options for addressing these flooding issues. For each flooding event report the 1 0.07 floors flooded number of habitable floors flooded per 1,000 connected New measure per 1,000 connected customers. customers. Contractor compliance with target response times for maintenance and customer requests. Attendance for flooding event Median 0.38 hours median call-outs from the time that the response time response time. local authority receives notification of one hour to the time that service personnel New measure reach the site. We will keep customers satisfied with our stormwater service. Percentage of community satisfied 80% 91% (78% including don’t 91% (78% including don’t with the stormwater service (NRB know responses) know responses) - target Survey). 85%. The total number of complaints 7 2.0 complaints received received about the Council’s per 1,000 connected New measure stormwater service (per 1,000 customers. connected customers).
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 33 Stormwater Drainage
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments We will manage our stormwater discharges to comply with all resource consents for discharge from our stormwater system. Number of abatement notices 0 No abatement notices. New measure Number of infringement notices. 0 No infringement notices. New measure Number of enforcement orders. 0 No enforcement notices. New measure Number of convictions 0 No convictions New measure Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Achieved Waitara stormwater Waitara stormwater delay. time. completed. Major projects are completed Achieved Waitara stormwater Currently within or under within budget. completed. total project budget.
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 1 2,773 2,698 2,698 2,718 Activity revenue (13) (14) (14) (7) Net cost of operations 2,760 2,684 2,684 2,711 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 83 241 161 150 Service level improvements 2 1,010 1,231 65 367 Growth 31 93 3 - Total capital expenditure 1,124 1,565 229 517
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Costs of Catchment Management Plan being developed.
2. Completion of the Waitara stormwater project carried forward from 2014/15.
34 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Flood Protection and Control Works
Responsibility Manager Water and Wastes
What we deliver The Council’s Flood Protection and Control Works service provides flood protection systems to urban areas in New Plymouth District. This includes the maintenance and monitoring of existing flood protection schemes and the planning of future flood protection measures. The impacts of climate change on rainfall patterns will be incorporated into designs of future flood protection assets.
Why we do it The Flood Protection and Control Works contribute to the Our Environment outcome. These Works support the environment through sustainable management and protection of natural resources by limiting flood risks.The service recognises and plans for future challenges arising from climate change and increased rainfall on urban environments (such as increased flood risk). Also, they promote an environment that is liveable for our community by reducing the flood risk, enabling residents to continue with their daily lives after a significant rainfall event.
The service protects people and property from the effects of flooding from rivers and streams in severe storm events (defined as storm events with a one per cent chance of occurring per year).
Significant challenges during the year During high rainfall events experienced this year flood protection works operated as required.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Flood protection works are maintained. Flood protection works are Achieved Achieved. maintained in accordance with New measure the Asset Management Plan and annual works programme.
Flood protection works are repaired. Any damage to flood protection Repairs Achieved. works is repaired following flooding completed to standards defined in the Asset within one year Management Plan. New measure Flood protection works are renewed. Flood protection works are Achieved Achieved. renewed in accordance with the New measure Asset Management Plan and annual works programme. We will keep customers satisfied with our flood protection service. Percentage of community satisfied 80% 95% (77% including don’t 96% (84% including don’t with the flood protection service know responses). know responses) - target (NRB Survey). 85%.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 35 Flood Protection and Control Works
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments We will complete all major projects on time. Major projects are completed on Achieved N/A Not applicable. Not applicable. time. No major projects in this No major projects in this financial year. financial year. Major projects are completed Achieved N/A Not applicable. Not applicable. within budget. No major projects in this No major projects in this financial year. financial year.
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 1 375 289 289 279 Activity revenue 0 0 0 0 Net cost of operations 375 289 289 279 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 9 31 31 0 Service level improvements 9 31 31 52 Total capital expenditure 18 62 62 52
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Operating expenses in line with budget but overhead allocations and depreciation higher than budgeted.
36 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Solid Waste and Kerbside Collection
Responsibility Manager Water and Wastes
What we deliver The Council’s Solid Waste and Kerbside Collection service (previously called Solid Waste and Refuse Collection) includes kerbside collection of recycling and refuse from residential households within defined service areas along with the operation of five transfer stations, a Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) and Colson Road Regional Landfill. Our transfer stations handle non-hazardous solid waste, greenwaste and recycling. Our landfill disposes of regional waste (from New Plymouth, Stratford and South Taranaki districts) to an environmentally acceptable standard.
We collect around 8,500 tonnes of rubbish from more than 27,400 households each year. We also pick up 5,000 tonnes of recycling from households, schools and transfer stations. Colson Road Regional Landfill takes approximately 55,000 tonnes of waste every year.
We promote waste minimisation across our community. This includes delivering educational programmes to businesses and schools.
Why we do it The Solid Waste and Kerbside Collection service contributes to the Our Environment outcome. It supports the sustainable management and protection of natural resources through promoting recycling activities and disposing of non-recyclable material in a careful manner. The service also creates a liveable environment for our community through avoiding the potential negative impacts of inappropriately disposed of refuse
The service ensures that household and business solid waste is collected and disposed of without significant environmental and health impacts, while encouraging waste minimisation through better waste management practices.
We aim to change the focus of our waste and refuse services from disposal to reduce, reuse and recycle service to help create more sustainable use of resources and reduce the amount of refuse going to the landfill.
Significant challenges during the year Implementation of the new kerbside collection service in October 2015 (glass, mixed recyclables and refuse bags) and commissioning of the new Materials Recovery Facility to sort recyclables for sale. This has resulted in a 50 per cent reduction in kerbside residual waste disposed to landfill. Negotiations with SouthTaranaki and Stratford district councils occurred regarding the construction and operation of a new regional landfill once Colson Road closes. Meeting environmental standards at the landfill needed close attention.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments We will provide a reliable solid waste collection and management service. Number of customer notifications 9 20 customer notifications of missed collections per 1,000 of of missed collections per New measure serviced properties. 1,000 services properties. Most were during initial roll-out of the new service. In last quarter only 0.4 added to total from previous two quarters). Compliance with transfer stations 95% 100%. advertised opening hours. New measure
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 37 Solid Waste and Kerbside Collection
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments We will keep customers satisfied with our solid waste collection and management service. Percentage of community satisfied 82% 89% (82% including don’t 77% (72% including don’t with the solid waste service (NRB know responses) know responses) - target Survey). 80%. Total number of complaints 3 Three complaints per received about the Council’s 1,000 customers. New measure solid waste service (per 1,000 customers). We will encourage minimisation of waste disposal in our district. Percentage of total household 25% 98% increase between 5.9% - target 10%. waste which is recycled by weight 2010/11 (17%) and (against 2010/11 baseline). 2015/16 (35%). Year on year percentage reduction 2% 49% decrease from 4.8% increase - target in landfill waste generated per 2014/15 to 2015/16. 5%. household. We will manage our solid waste service to comply with all resource consents. Number of abatement notices 0 One abatement notice received. received. Non compliance New measure with the Colson Road Landfill Management Plan. The Council are building a gas and odour treatment facility at the landfill. Number of infringement notices 0 One infringement notice received. received. Non compliance New measure with the Colson Road Landfill Management Plan. The Council are building a gas and odour treatment facility at the landfill. Number of enforcement orders 0 No enforcement orders received received. New measure Number of convictions received 0 No convictions received. New measure Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Achieved MRF completed. Public time. Good Area underway but New measure not complete. Major projects are completed Achieved Public Good Area within budget. underway but not New measure complete.
38 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Solid Waste and Kerbside Collection
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity Expenditure Kerbside collection 1 2,865 3,454 3,454 1,899 Solid waste disposal 2 3,113 4,620 3,292 1,664 Total activity expenditure 5,978 8,074 6,746 3,563 Activity revenue Kerbside collection (226) (294) (294) (419) Solid waste disposal 1 (5,789) (6,388) (5,061) (4,985) Total activity revenue (6,015) (6,682) (5,355) (5,404) Net cost of operations (37) 1,392 1,391 (1,841) CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 56 101 101 0 Service level improvements 3,039 3,623 3,317 2,708 Total capital expenditure 3,095 3,724 3,418 2,708
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Landfill quantities reduced due to significant uptake of recycling, reducing both expense and income.
2. Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) had savings through the year against budget and from the revaluation of credits held at year end. Partially offset by additional odour control measures put in place at Colson Road Landfill.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 39 Water Supply
Responsibility Manager Water and Wastes
What we deliver The Council’s Water Supply service supplies water to defined urban and rural water supply areas. The service includes the development, operation and maintenance of groundwater bores, river intakes, treatment plants, storage facilities, pump stations and pipe networks. We supply around 33m litres/day of water to 27,400 households and businesses, all of which are compliant with the New Zealand Drinking Water Standards. We do this through four separate water supplies at New Plymouth (includes Omata, Bell Block, Waitara and Urenui), Inglewood, Öäkura and Okato.
Why we do it The supply of water supports both the Our Economy and Our Environment outcomes. This service enables an economy built on the sustainable management of economic resources and an environment supported by the sustainable management and protection of natural resources, through the provision of metered water to commercial users and limiting water take during drier periods. Water Supply also enables for a diverse range of industry by supplying water critical to business operations. The service recognises and plans for future challenges by developing the water supply for future growth areas and through leak reduction to lower future use requirements. Water Supply also provides for a liveable environment for our community through the provision of clean, safe drinking water.
The service provides all connected properties with a safe, reliable and affordable supply of water, and ensures water is available in urban areas for firefighting.
Significant challenges during the year Preparation of the Water Master Plan to consider options to meet future water demand due to growth and planned infrastructure capital programme. Water restrictions were imposed during summer and autumn due to low rain fall resulting in high water demand and low flows in the Mangatete Stream (the source of the Okato water supply).
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments We will provide water which complies with the NZ Drinking Water Standards. Compliance with Part 4 of the Full compliance Full compliance. Drinking-water Standards (bacteria New measure compliance criteria). Compliance with Part 5 of Full compliance Drinking water assessor the Drinking-water Standards has advised of a technical New measure (protozoal compliance criteria). non compliance. They advise this was not about the water being non potable, i.e. it was safe to drink. Maintenance of the reticulation network. Percentage of real water loss 25% 31% of real water loss. from the Council’s networked New measure reticulation system.1 Contractor compliance with target response times for maintenance and customer requests. Attendance for urgent call-outs Median 0.38 hours median from the time that the Council response time response time. receives notification to the time of one hour or that service personnel reach the less site. New measure
40 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Water Supply
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Resolution of urgent call-outs from Median 1.7 hours median restored the time that the Council receives restored time time. notification to the time that service of four hours or personnel confirm resolution of the less for mains fault or interruption. < 250 dia New measure Resolution of urgent call-outs from Median No call-outs. the time that the Council receives restored time of notification to the time that service eight hours or personnel confirm resolution of the less for mains fault or interruption. > 250 dia Attendance for non-urgent call- Median 25 hours median outs from the time that the Council response time response time, including receives notification to the time of 24 hours or weekends and public that service personnel reach the less holidays. site. New measure Resolution of non-urgent call- Median 44 hours median restored outs from the time that the restored time time. Council receives notification to of 48 hours or the time that service personnel less confirm resolution of the fault or New measure interruption. We will keep customers satisfied with our water service. Percentage of community satisfied 85% 92% (83% including don’t 91% (81% including don’t with the water service (NRB know responses) know responses) - target survey). 96%. Total number of complaints 2 Two complaints per 1,000 received about water clarity (per connected customers. New measure 1,000 connected customers). Total number of complaints 1 0.39 complaints per 1,000 received about water taste (per connected customers. New measure 1,000 connected customers). The total number of complaints 1 0.43 complaints per 1,000 received about water odour (per connected customers. New measure 1,000 connected customers). The total number of complaints 2 1.8 complaints per 1,000 received about water pressure connected customers. New measure or flow (per 1,000 connected customers). The total number of complaints 2 3.5 complaints per 1,000 received about water continuity connected customers. New measure of supply (per 1,000 connected customers). The total number of complaints 1 No complaints received about the Council’s New measure response to any of the above issues (per 1,000 connected customers).
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 41 Water Supply
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments We manage demand to minimise the impact on the environment of the water supply. The average consumption of 315 litres per 329 litres per day. drinking water per day per resident day within the territorial authority New measure district. Number of abatement notices 0 No abatement notices. received. New measure Number of infringement notices 0 No infringement notices. received. New measure Number of enforcement notices 0 No enforcement notices. received. New measure Number of convictions received. 0 No convictions. New measure Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Achieved Okato bore and Airport Okato bore and Öäkura time trunk main underway. trunk main underway but Öäkura trunk main held up by easement delay due to easement negotiations. negotiations. Major projects are completed Achieved Currently within or under Currently within or under within budget. total project budget. total project budget.
1 Water loss calculation: In the absence of specific data, we have calculated water loss from the Council’s networked reticulation system as follows. Percentage water loss equals 0.165m3 per connection per day multiplied by 27,400 connections divided by 35,429m3 water produced per day from the Council’s water treatment plants. The value of 0.165m3 per connection per day is the Median Real Losses from the 2014/15 National Performance Review (a benchmarking survey undertaken by Water New Zealand). This is the total lost from the system (i.e. within both the public network and private plumbing). Without meters we are unable to distinguish between these two.
42 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Water Supply
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 *$’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 1 10,484 11,403 11,403 10,231 Activity revenue (4,175) (4,052) (4,052) (4,229) Net cost of operations 6,309 7,351 7,351 6,002 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 1,686 2,178 1,825 718 Service level improvements 655 2,727 1,297 660 Growth 236 1,158 757 170 Total capital expenditure 2 2,577 6,063 3,879 1,548
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Operational savings in consumables and maintenance. The lagoon cleaning and the treatment plant filter gallery maintenance works will be carried forward to 2016/17.
2. Faull Road water trunk main project on hold, Öäkura main duplication project waiting for easement negotiations to be completed.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 43 Wastewater Treatment
Responsibility Manager Water and Wastes
What we deliver The Council’s Wastewater Treatment service provides a group of activities which collects, treats and disposes of domestic and industrial wastewater from urban areas of New Plymouth, Bell Block, Waitara, Inglewood and Öäkura. This service includes the operation and maintenance of treatment plants, pump stations and underground pipe networks (sewers). We also monitor the flow of trade waste into the wastewater network. We handle on average 25m litres of wastewater each day, servicing more than 25,200 properties via 34 pump stations and 704km of sewers.
Why we do it Wastewater Treatment supports the Our Environment outcome, through the sustainable management and protection of natural resources and a liveable environment for our community by treating potentially hazardous wastewater (both to human health and the natural environment) to make it safe. The service also recognises and plans for future environmental challenges by ensuring the treatment system can accommodate increased volumes of wastewater caused by growth in population and industry.
This service disposes of wastewater in a safe and efficient manner to protect the health of the community and minimise the impact on the environment.
Significant challenges during the year Commencement of stage two of Wai Taatari is now underway. This involves improvements to the processing of sludge at the New Plymouth Wastewater Treatment Plant. Three unauthorised discharges occurred within two months in the Waitara sewerage system. A review of the Waitara wastewater system was undertaken. This concluded the incidents were isolated and unrelated. It also confirmed there were no systematic or underlying issues that contributed to these incidents. Although unfortunate these incidents provided opportunities for improvement to our operation and systems.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments We will limit the number of dry weather overflows from our network. Number of dry weather sewerage 1 0.70 overflows per 1,000 overflows per 1,000 connections. connections. New measure Contractor compliance with target response times for maintenance and customer requests. Attendance for sewerage overflow Median 0.49 hours median call-outs from the time that the response time response time. Council receives notification to the of one hour time that service personnel reach New measure the site. Resolution of sewerage overflow Median Two hours median call-outs from the time that the resolution time resolution time. Council receives notification to of four hours the time that service personnel for sewers confirm resolution of the fault or < 250 dia interruption. New measure Resolution of sewerage overflow Median 4.1 hours median call-outs from the time that the resolution time resolution time. Council receives notification to of eight hours the time that service personnel for sewers confirm resolution of the fault or >/= 250 dia interruption. New measure
44 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Wastewater Treatment
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments We will keep customers satisfied with our wastewater service. Percentage of community satisfied 88% 93% (80% including don’t 98% (78% including don’t with the wastewater service (NRB know responses). know responses) - target Survey). 95%. Total number of complaints 1 1.1 complaints per 1,000 received about sewerage odour connected customers. New measure (per 1,000 connected customers). Complaints regarding Mangati Pump Station, a private pump station and reticulation blockages). Total number of complaints 1 No complaints. received about sewerage system New measure faults (per 1,000 connected customers). Total number of complaints 10 6.5 complaints per 1,000 received about sewerage system connected customers. New measure blockages (per 1,000 connected customers) Total number of complaints 1 No complaints per 1,000 received about the Council’s connected customers. New measure response to any of the above issues (per 1,000 connected customers). We will manage our wastewater discharges to comply with all resource consents for discharge from our sewerage system. Number of abatement notices. 0 One abatement notice - Waitara to New Plymouth New measure pipeline leak. Number of infringement notices. 0 One infringement notice - Waitara Outfall Pump New measure Station. Number of enforcement orders. 0 No enforcement orders. New measure Number of convictions 0 No convictions. New measure Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Achieved Wai Taatari underway Achieved. time. and on track. Waitara milliscreens delayed but now underway. Area Q delayed due to easements. Major projects are completed Achieved Currently within or under Achieved. within budget. total project budget.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 45 Wastewater Treatment
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 16,183 16,330 16,330 15,066 Activity revenue (2,001) (1,954) (1,954) (2,084) Net cost of operations 14,182 14,376 14,376 12,982 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 1 2,718 5,655 4,563 2,900 Service level improvements 2 632 2,520 1,440 2,466 Growth 2 367 2,524 1,602 155 Total capital expenditure 3,717 10,699 7,605 5,521
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Supply and installation of two milliscreens for screening sewerage at the Waitara sewer pump station will be carried forward to 2016/17.
2. Progress is being made on Area Q (Bell Block) wastewater services, with easement negotiations and the design work approaching completion. Construction costs to be carried forward.
46 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Emergency Management and Business Continuance
Responsibility Manager Infrastructure Support and Risk Management Lead
What we deliver New Plymouth District Council plans for and manages major and widespread emergency (civil defence) events. It does this as a member of the Taranaki Civil Defence Emergency Management Group in conjunction with the other Taranaki councils, other agencies and the Taranaki community. The Council also plans for and manages the continuation of its own services for all emergency events, both major and minor. The Rural Fire Protection Service is provided by the Taranaki Rural Fire Authority. This service provides for the risk-reduction, readiness, response and recovery aspect of civil defence and emergency management to create a resilient New Plymouth District.
Why we do it To reduce the effect of emergency events and rural fires on the community’s quality of life and ensure that Council services are maintained or restored as quickly as possible following such events. Under the Civil Defence Emergency Management Act 2002 and the Forest and Rural Fires Act 1977, the Council is required to take responsibility for the reduction of, readiness for, response to and recovery from risks and events associated with emergency management and rural fires. This contributes to a strong and resilient community and an environment where future challenges are recognised and planned for.
Significant challenges during the year There were no significant challenges during the year.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Planning for and management of emergency events. Emergency processes and plans Processes and Achieved, an ongoing Regional Taranaki are up to date. plans reviewed task. Volcanic Response and updated Plan developed through Taranaki Emergency Management Office. Control and extinguish fires in rural areas (except buildings which are the responsibility of the New Zealand Fire Service). All reports of uncontrolled or 100% 100%. 49 calls received over unauthorised rural fires responded this summer period and to within set timeframes and all responded to within extinguished by the Council the set timeframes. Major contractors where necessary. rural fire incident at Colson Road. Trained fire crews are available Full compliance Full compliance. Training requirements and in all required areas and crew equipment meets audit and equipment meet standards of standards. audit.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 47 Emergency Management and Business Continuance
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Annual work Not applicable. Two significant projects time. programme - development of No major projects in this achieved community development financial year. plans and national emergency management system are progressing as planned. Major projects are completed Annual work Not applicable. Projects on budget. within budget. programme No major projects in this achieved within financial year. budget
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 496 472 472 471 Activity revenue (29) (1) (1) (19) Net cost of operations 467 471 471 452 Total capital expenditure - - - -
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
48 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Community Partnerships
Responsibility Community Partnerships Lead
What we deliver The Community Partnerships role (previously called Community Development) is to develop and integrate the Council’s community partnership and investment approaches across the Council and to support community engagement. This service manages community funding investment schemes and key community partnerships on behalf of the Council. Externally our stakeholders span industry, third sector and not-for-profit groups including, community organisations, charities, educational institutions, iwi and hapu leaders and central and local government agencies.
The service also includes provision of tenancy services for the Council’s housing for the elderly service.
Why we do it
Community Partnerships supports achievement of the Our Community outcome of an inclusive and connected community and the eight key strategic directions of environment, community, citizens, growth, economy, talent, central city and destination. The service works with community stakeholders to create partnerships that ensure the community is equipped to make a significant contribution to well-being and quality of life.
Significant challenges during the year To accommodate the reduction in operational funding from 2016/17, the Community Partnerships service have implemented a new operating model in accordance with that adopted by the Council in the Long Term Plan 2015-2025.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Support the community sector through building and maintaining strategic relationships that increase collaboration on initiatives and build capacity and capability of organisations that contribute to a stronger community. Percentage of partners satisfied 80% 57%. Reduction due to 94% - target 85%. with advice and involvement in changes in service level community initiatives. and reporting scale. Percentage of residents satisfied Exceeds peer 93% (62% including 89% (54% including with Council assistance and group average don’t know responses) don’t know responses) support to community groups compared to peer group compared to peer group (NRB survey). average of 92% (65% average of 92% (65% including don’t know including don’t know responses) responses). Provide a ‘start-up’ fund that rewards creativity and collaboration in new community initiatives. Number of initiatives receiving 3 Three new community ‘start-up’ financial support. initiatives brokered and New measure funded as a start up initiative. Administer and coordinate the housing for the elderly service. Percentage of tenants satisfied 90% 98%. 98%. with the service.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 49 Community Partnerships
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Provide funding support for community organisations and initiatives. Percentage of achievement of 95% 97%. The average achievement key performance indicators by the percentage of KPIs Council’s grant recipients (as set was 97%. Out of the 47 out in funding contracts). KPIs reported on from funded groups, 43 of these showed 100% achievement.
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity Expenditure Community partnerships 1 447 662 654 553 Community funding 2 1,900 2,320 2,101 3,308 Housing for the elderly 885 1,008 1,008 959 Total activity expenditure 3,232 3,990 3,763 4,820 Activity revenue Community partnerships - - - (44) Community funding (87) (58) (58) (69) Housing for the elderly (938) (998) (998) (890) Total activity revenue (1,025) (1,056) (1,056) (1,003) Net cost of operations 2,207 2,934 2,707 3,817 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 98 123 113 33 Total capital expenditure 98 123 113 33
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Savings through organisation realignment.
2. Due to an oversight the budget was not reset to reflect the Council’s Long-Term Plan resolution to reduce community funding as the Council becomes more strategic in this grant allocation.
50 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
Responsibility Manager Govett-Brewster
What we deliver The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery is New Zealand’s leading contemporary art museum offering a group of activities within its programme of exhibitions and events, including up to three suites of exhibitions, some 900 artworks and 60 education and cultural appreciation events each year. The Govett-Brewster is home to the collection of Taranaki, national and international artworks with a Pacific Rim focus, and the collection and archive of internationally recognised filmmaker and kinetic artist Len Lye (1901 - 1980). The Len Lye Centre opened in mid-2015 and has been developed as an extension to the Govett-Brewster building.
Why we do it The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery supports the Our Community and Our Economy outcomes. The art gallery contains Taranaki works that foster pride and a collective sense of identity in our community, and the gallery is an integral part of the Taranaki lifestyle. Further, the art gallery generates tourism so helps the economy to be supported by a diverse range of industries.
The activities within this group provide a relevant and accessible art museum for residents and visitors. The Govett- Brewster contributes to quality of life and cultural well-being and raises the national and international profile of New Plymouth District. This attracts domestic and international visitors and helps retain a skilled workforce in the area. It also delivers local arts, culture and events which are central to providing high-quality and diverse cultural and recreational experiences, and encouraging innovation and creativity.
Significant challenges during the year • Opening on time and within budget. • Achieving three-year Business Plan revenue key performance indicator which reflects increased visitor numbers and sales targets.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Offer engaging exhibitions annually comprising solo and group exhibitions from Taranaki, New Zealand and the world. Number of exhibition suites per 3 Three suites held, with Two exhibitions held year. six exhibitions and one offsite. Two exhibitions off-site exhibition in the held onsite - Open Old Bank. Window. One touring exhibition. Offer quality access to the art and ideas of Len Lye. Number of Len Lye exhibitions 2 Four exhibitions and three Seven wind wands annually. film projections series loaned to St Louis USA. held. Work loaned to Adam Art Gallery for Cinema and Painting exhibition. Audiences have positive experiences. Total number of visitors 96,000 141,922 visitors from 220,000 estimated visitors (physically) annually. opening date 25 July to Reuben Paterson’s 2015. Golden Bearing in the Festival of the Lights plus 11,248 visitors to education, touring and Open Window exhibitions.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 51 Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Percentage of resident satisfaction Meets or 69% (48% including Not measured in 2015. with the service (NRB survey). exceeds peer don’t know responses) group average compared to peer group average of 91% (49% including don’t know responses). Education programming is nationally recognised as unique and distinctive. Percentage of teachers satisfied 95% 100% satisfied from a 100% satisfaction from with school experience. return on assessment of 101 classes conducted 45% of teachers. offsite, including outdoors. Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Annual work Govett-Brewster Art Govett-Brewster Art time. programme Gallery/Len Lye Centre Gallery/Len Lye Centre is achieved opened on time - 25 July set to open 25 July 2015. 2015. Major projects are completed Annual work Govett-Brewster Art The construction of the within budget. programme Gallery/Len Lye Centre Govett-Brewster Art achieved within opened on budget. Gallery/Len Lye Centre budget and the earthquake strengthening of the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre remains within budget.
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 1 4,802 4,062 3,872 3,237 Activity revenue 2 (638) (667) (667) (4,269) Net cost of operations 4,164 3,395 3,205 (1,032) CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 154 509 432 4,602 Service level improvements 524 - - 6,387 Total capital expenditure 3 678 509 432 10,989
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. The decision not to fund depreciation resulted in building depreciation ($381k) not being budgeted (no rates impact). Building operating costs were up on budget primarily due to higher energy costs associated with drying the new concrete structure. Personnel costs higher due to higher visitor numbers.
2. Revenue from sales cinema and education programmes up on budget, offset by change in accounting treatment which has deferred some grants income to 2016/17 year.
3. Completion of Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre, timing variation only. Total project on budget.
52 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Puke Ariki and District Libraries
Responsibility Manager Puke Ariki
What we deliver Puke Ariki is a dynamic people-orientated centre for Taranaki and New Zealand that provides residents and visitors learning opportunities to maximise their potential and capacity. Puke Ariki protects and promotes access to our heritage.
Puke Ariki consists of the following services:
• Central library service (Puke Ariki Library). • Five community libraries. • A mobile library bus service. • Museum exhibition programme. • Public programmes. • Discover it! – including a homework centre. • Taranaki Research Centre. • i-SITE Visitor Information Centre. • Care for, collect and promote Taranaki heritage collections.
Why we do it Puke Ariki and District Libraries support Our Community and Our Economy outcomes. Through its exhibitions, public programmes, care of Taranaki heritage collections and the Taranaki Research Centre, Puke Ariki fosters pride and a collective sense of identity in the community. Puke Ariki and District Libraries are a strong part of the great Taranaki lifestyle. Puke Ariki also promotes the tourism industry, and therefore a diverse range of industries within our economy, through the museum and i-SITE Visitor Information Centre.
Puke Ariki delivers library and museum services which are considered to be core services that local authorities must have particular regard to when performing their role. It also delivers visitor information services.
Significant challenges during the year Delivering long term gallery refresh projects, involving multiple external contractors, on time.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Provide an accessible and informative point of contact and booking service for visitors to New Plymouth District. Number of customer visits to the 55,000 85,015 customer visits. i-SITE Visitor Information Centre New measure annually. Percentage of customers satisfied 95% 99% of customers with the i-SITE Visitor Information satisfied. New measure Centre (in-house survey). Provide an accessible mix of print and digital lending and reference resources to meet the changing needs of the community. Percentage of customers who are 95% 94% of customers satisfied with the library collections satisfied. New measure (in-house surveys).
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 53 Puke Ariki and District Libraries
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments To deliver a range of programmes which explore creativity, literacy and our heritage in ways that stimulate learning, innovation and prosperity. Number of programmed learning 900 1,849 programmed 1,207 programmed opportunities and number of programmes learning opportunities at learning opportunities at attendees. Puke Ariki.This includes Puke Ariki. This includes 20,000 1,260 facilitated school 818 facilitated education attendees education programmes programmes conducted conducted through through Puke Ariki, Puke Ariki, the Taranaki the Taranaki Research Research Centre, Centre, Discover It and Discover It and the the community libraries, community libraries, as as well as 389 exhibition well as 486 exhibition related events and related events and community events were community events were held. held. 29,973 attendees to all events. 38,930 attendees to all events. Percentage of attendees satisfied 95% 98% overall for attendees 97% overall average for with the programmed learning to all events. Teachers attendees to all events. opportunities. gave 100% satisfaction for Teachers gave 100% education programmes. satisfaction for education programmes.
Number of school students 14,000 28,011 students, includes attending Puke Ariki programmes. community libraries. New measure Provide 24/7 access to the Heritage Collection through the Browser. Number of heritage items with 40,000 39,428 items catalogued. records improved. Swainson-Woods project New measure completed. Numbers catalogued reflect this. Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Annual work Long Term Gallery Puke Ariki continues time. programme refreshment continues the annual programme achieved with two new major of two major temporary elements completed exhibitions supported by (Mounga Taranaki and several smaller exhibitions Whakairo rākau), with two that utilise Puke Ariki more well advanced and collections. forward planning in place. Long Term galleries Digitisation of the refreshment continues Swainson/Woods and forward planning in collection is completed place. with 111,544 images available on line. Major projects are completed Annual work Budget on track with Budget on track with within budget. programme staged work of the staged work of the achieved within projects. projects. budget
54 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Puke Ariki and District Libraries
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 1 11,076 11,536 11,536 10,835 Activity revenue 2 (989) (827) (827) (918) Net cost of operations 10,087 10,709 10,709 9,917 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 1,339 1,283 1,153 925 Service level improvements 494 417 320 555 Total capital expenditure 2 1,833 1,700 1,473 1,480
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Savings through organisation efficiency projects.
2. Additional grants received to fund long term gallery refresh.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 55 Recreation and Events
Responsibility Manager Recreation and Events
What we deliver The Council’s Recreation and Events service provides a group of activities that includes four multi-purpose recreation, sport and entertainment venues: TSB Bowl of Brooklands, TSB Showplace, TSB Stadium and Yarrow Stadium. It provides community events such as the annual TSB Bank Festival of Lights and support for other events such as 2015 Royal visit and Waitangi Day celebrations, and is the host city partner for WOMAD 2014-2016. New Plymouth District Council also provides five swimming pool complexes and learn to swim and fitness programmes.
The Council provides financial support to the Bell Block Community Pool Society Incorporated to fund staffing costs for the Bell Block Community Pool. A total of $117,500 will be provided to the society by the Council and will be incorporated within the Council’s swimming pool budget. This amount includes an allocation previously provided by Community Development.
Why we do it Recreation and Events supports the Our Community outcome through the provision of community events that foster pride and a collective sense of identity. The great Taranaki lifestyle is promoted by providing both community events (such as the TSB Bank Festival of Lights) and event venues. Event venues and community events help to foster a diverse range of industries supporting the Our Economy outcome. Events and venues also provide for the Our Environment outcome by making the district more liveable for our community.
This service provides high-quality and affordable recreation, sport and entertainment opportunities for residents, with the added benefit of attracting visitors to the district.
The Recreation and Events service contributes to the delivery of arts, community and cultural events and special interest initiatives which encourage the community to enjoy the great Taranaki lifestyle and to value diversity. The activities of the service also support the local economy through raising the district’s national and international profile and by attracting visitors to the district.
Significant challenges during the year • Providing a diverse range of events at Yarrow Stadium with a drop in wicket for 20/20 cricket, hosting the first NRL game with Vodafone Warriors and a Wellington Phoenix v NZ-A Football match. Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Provide high quality community pools which encourage the community to participate in aquatic activities. Percentage of residents satisfied 80% 95% (83% including don’t 91% (80% including don’t with the swimming facilities and know responses). know responses). staff service (NRB survey). Pool patronage per year. 350,000 413,404 includes district 341,870 includes district pools. pools - target 330,000. Provide a range of events which appeal to residents and visitors. Percentage of residents satisfied 95% 95% (90% including don’t 97% (89% including don’t with the events (NRB survey). know responses). know responses). Percentage of residents satisfied 90% 97% (93% including don’t 98% (93% including don’t with the events venues (NRB know responses). know responses). survey).
56 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Recreation and Events
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Provide a network of high quality venues that create more opportunities for the community to attend arts, culture and sport and recreation activities. Number of attendees and events/ 275,000 345,343 attendees. 394,813 attendees. bookings across all venues is attendees 1,041 events (total across 916 events (total across maintained or increases where all venues). all venues). possible. 475 events/ bookings All venues and pools are managed to a high level of health and safety. All required health and safety All standards All pools Poolsafe All pools Poolsafe standards are met. met accredited. accredited. Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Annual work Feasibility design Studies on TSB Stadium time. programme undertaken for TSB and Todd Energy Aquatic achieved Stadium and TSB Centre reported back as Showplace renewal part of Long-Term Plan project, but works 2015-2025 process. programme behind schedule. Major projects are completed Annual work Projects through LTP The tiling contract for within budget. programme 2015-2025 on budget. Todd Energy Aquatic achieved within Centre was $200,000 over budget budget (mainly due to the need to replace existing expansion joints which only became apparent when the old tiles were removed). In addition for health and safety reasons there was a need to replace the chlorine building ($160,000), works still in progress. Contributions from Todd Energy were used to fund this budget overrun.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 57 Recreation and Events
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity Expenditure Pools 4,410 4,443 4,443 3,939 Programmes and events 1,417 1,435 1,435 1,340 Event venues 4,504 3,860 3,650 4,435 Total activity expenditure 10,331 9,738 9,528 9,714 Activity revenue Pools (1,504) (1,522) (1,522) (1,725) Programmes and events (474) (428) (428) (422) Event venues (1,632) (869) (869) (1,913) Total activity revenue (3,610) (2,819) (2,819) (4,060) Net cost of operations 1 6,721 6,919 6,709 5,654 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 2 539 1,140 1,080 1,290 Service level improvements 40 47 28 183 Growth - - - 2 Total capital expenditure 579 1,187 1,108 1,475
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Both revenue and expenditure up on budget from greater number of events attracted to our venues.
2. Underspend on TSB Showplace and TSB Stadium three-year work programme.
58 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Regulatory Services
Responsibility Manager Customer and Regulatory Services and District Planning Lead
What we deliver Regulatory Services consists of the following: • Environmental policy and advice. • District Plan. • Building control. • Land use and subdivision consents. • Animal control. • Parking. • Environmental health. • Alcohol and food licensing.
This service includes:
• Implementation of policies and statutory plans. • Processing of consents, licences and registrations. • Inspection, monitoring and enforcement of legislation and bylaws. • Reporting and providing information, education and advice on a range of statutory provisions, e.g. Acts, regulations and policy. • Provision of property and land information.
Why we do it Regulatory Services supports the Our Economy and Our Environment outcomes through regulating a range of activities under a number of acts. Regulatory Services supports an economy built on the sustainable management of economic resources and an environment support by the sustainable management and protection of natural resources through rationalising the use of resources (such as land and parking). Regulatory Services encourages and builds on innovation and creativity through the safe regulation of activities (such as building controls). The service also promotes a diverse range of industry through the District Plan’s controls on land use, enabling business development opportunities. Regulatory Services supports a liveable environment through a range of activities, such as building control, environmental health, parking, animal control and land use consents.
This service plans for the future and contributes to a safe and progressive community that maintains a sustainable living and working environment. The group facilitates development in the district and manages potential conflicts of use.
Significant challenges during the year • Implementation of the Food Act 2016. • Continued growth of new houses within building consents. Value is up on average 10.3% per annum and new houses are up 29% per annum over the last two years. • Identifying engineering solutions in response to current infrastructure constraints for new developments.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 59 Regulatory Services
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Ensure that all animal control processes contribute to a safe and healthy community. Percentage of known dogs 95% 94%. 95%. registered. Percentage of community satisfied Exceeds peer 92% (84% including 95% (86% including with animal control (NRB survey). group average don’t know responses) don’t know responses) compared to peer group compared to peer group average of 80% (73% average of 80% (73% including don’t know including don’t know responses). responses). Maximise use of on-street car parking space. Average rate of occupation of CBD 85% 50.6%, excludes the off- 47% includes paid paid parking spaces. street carparks including parking, time restricted, Devon Street Central loading zones and Carpark (beside Kina) mobility parking. Paid and the Lower Courtenay parking average is 70% Carpark (beneath The occupancy. Warehouse) due to unclear occupancy statistics. A reporting tool is being developed to produce more accurate results going forward. The health and safety of the public is protected by ensuring food premises meet required standards. Percentage of food premises 95% 99%. 98%. inspected with no remedial steps required. Ensure alcohol licensed premises comply with statutory and licence provisions. Percentage of alcohol licences 95% 97%. 95%. that comply with statutory and licence provisions (as a result of inspections, complaints and Controlled Purchase Operations). Customers are satisfied with building consent service. Percentage of customers using 80% 94%. 94%. building consent processes are satisfied with the service provided. Ensure customers are satisfied with access to information on regulatory services. Percentage of customers 80% N/A No survey undertaken this 96%. accessing information on year. regulatory processes are satisfied with the service provided (in-house survey).
60 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Regulatory Services
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Ensure customers are satisfied with resource consent services. Percentage of customers using 80% 73% (including neutral 100% (including neutral resource consent processes are responses), very low responses). satisfied with the service provided. participant response. Introduced stakeholder liaison group being held on quarterly basis to address matters of concern. Consents are processed within statutory timeframes. Percentage of building consent 100% 95%. 1,803 building 99.7% - one building applications processed within consents granted, of consent exceeded the statutory timeframes. which 87 exceeded 20 statutory timeframe. days (4.8%). Percentage of all non-notified land 100% 98.2% - eight exceeded 98.5% - four subdivision use and subdivision consents timeframe. and one land use are processed within statutory consents exceeded timeframes. timeframe. The quality of New Plymouth District living environment is being maintained. Percentage of community satisfied 95% 96% (90% including don’t with living environment (NRB know responses). New measure survey). Major projects are completed on time and within budget. Major projects are completed on Annual work Annual work programme Zeroing out of parking time. programme achieved. machines on hold due to achieved technical difficulties. Major projects are completed Annual work Annual work programme Implementation of Food within budget. programme achieved within budget. Act and Resource achieved within Management Act changes budget in progress.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 61 Regulatory Services
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity Expenditure Animal control 1,008 1,073 1,073 1,011 Building consents 1 4,411 3,470 3,250 3,254 Environmental strategy and policy 1,314 1,533 1,450 1,250 Resource consents 2 2,775 2,441 2,441 2,211 Environmental health 1,097 970 970 891 Parking 2,098 2,117 2,117 1,926 Total activity expenditure 12,703 11,604 11,301 10,543 Activity revenue Animal control (864) (839) (839) (873) Building consents 3 (3,044) (2,651) (2,651) (2,501) Environmental strategy and policy - (35) (35) - Resource consents 3 (2,255) (2,139) (2,139) (2,842) Environmental health (600) (605) (605) (548) Parking 4 (3,343) (3,619) (3,745) (3,625) Total activity revenue (10,106) (9,888) (10,014) (10,389) Net cost of operations 2,597 1,716 1,287 154 CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals 5 17 156 156 5 Service level improvements - - - 3 Total capital expenditure 17 156 156 8
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Settlement and provision for building structural integrity claims.
2. Consent activity was high requiring additional staffing to meet demand.
3. Increased building consent activity and resource consents.
4. Lower infringement notices and free Saturday parking trial.
5. Replacement of Downtown Carpark lifts delayed to 2016/17.
62 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Economic Development
Responsibility Group Manager Strategy
What we deliver The Council contributes to the district’s economic development in a number of ways, including through its strategic planning and district plan, the provision of its events, recreation and entertainment facilities, arts and cultural services and the maintenance and construction of roads and infrastructure.
The Council also funds and agrees the strategic direction with Venture Taranaki Trust (VTT), a Council-controlled Organisation responsible for the delivery of the district’s economic development services, such as tourism, marketing and events, economic information and business support services.
VTT was founded and is principally owned by the Council. It also offers services via commercial contracts to South Taranaki District Council and Stratford District Council. It has several funding and service partnerships with Taranaki Electricity Trust, TSB Community Trust, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise, Callaghan Innovation, Business Mentors New Zealand and many other private sector organisations.
The Council priorities for economic development are set out in the New Plymouth District Blueprint’s Destination, Talent, Growth and Industry key directions and the Economic Development Strategy that seeks to build and retain a highly skilled workforce, improve our connections within New Zealand and with the world; encourage enterprise and innovation in all areas of our economy; promote our district as a desirable and unique place to visit, live and invest in; and to capitalise on our economic advantages.
Why we do it
Economic development is a key ingredient to a strong and resilient economy. Supporting local businesses to be innovative and creative and encouraging a diverse range of industries in the district will improve community resilience and sustainability.
Significant challenges during the year During the year the Council undertook an independent review of its economic development service delivered by VTT. It was found that VTT as a Council-controlled Organisation is the most cost-effective and efficient model for delivering a full range of economic development services across the district and region.
Importantly the review identified that the Council should look to achieve a better return on its investment and play a stronger governance role as owner of VTT. A number of suggestions and recommendations for improvements have been made that require action from both VTT and the Council. The outcome and recommendations of the review were reflected within the Council adopted Letter of Expectation and subsequently within the VTT Statement of Intent lodged with Council on 28 June 2016.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 63 Economic Development
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Promote New Plymouth District and the Taranaki region as a vibrant and desirable place to live, work and visit. Attract or retain major events. 3 major events 17 events. Events 10 events. Events contracted included contracted included Wellington Phoenix International Festival vs NZA football game, of the Arts, Powerco Taranaki Steelformers Garden Spectacular Around the Mountain 2015, NZ Home Loans Relay, NZ Tattoo and Art Surf Festival, Wells Festivals, BDO Around Half Ironman, Sting and the Mountain Cycle Paul Simon, WOMAD, Challenge, Tropfest, ITU Tropfest, AmeriCARna, NP Sprint Triathlon World Steelformers Around the Cup 2016, AmeriCARna, Mountain Relay and ITU Georgie Pie Super Smash NP Sprint Triathlon World T20 cricket, PSP NZ Cup 2015. jetsprint championships, Warriors vs Canberra Raiders NRL, WOMAD, Powerco Taranaki Garden Spectacular. Facilitate, promote, encourage and support sustainable business growth, investment and employment opportunities in Taranaki. Amount of investment into regional $500,000 $1,086,765 across 24 $1,401,192 of research businesses per year, subject to transactions. and development funding central government policy. approved across 39 grants. Client satisfaction with business >80% 91.8% satisfied or very 91.2% satisfied or very support services provided per satisfied with Venture satisfied with Venture year. Taranaki business Taranaki business services. services. Level of investment in $140,000 $326,364 across 235 $341,444 of capability management capability building vouchers. development funding was per year for Taranaki’s Small invested into the region in and Medium Sized Enterprises the 2014/15 year (across (businesses). 225 vouchers).
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 2,815 2,803 2,803 2,761 Activity revenue - - - - Net cost of operations 2,815 2,803 2,803 2,761 Total capital expenditure - - - -
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
64 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Civic and Democracy Services
Responsibility Governance Lead
What we deliver Democratic Services supports the Mayor, Councillors and community board members to be effective, representative and accountable decision-makers. This activity facilitates Council, committee and community board meetings, runs local authority elections and coordinates a range of civic functions.
Why we do it Elected members are required to represent their communities and make decisions in an open, transparent and accountable manner. This activity supports that decision-making process and ensures decisions are made in accordance with statutory requirements. Robust decision-making processes, aligned with the Council’s key strategic principles, will support the community outcomes and enable the Council to fulfill its vision.
Significant challenges during the year Unanticipated Royal visit successfully delivered with the assistance of the Department of Internal Affairs.
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 2014/15 Target Results/Comments Results/Comments Properly manage local elections. Elections and polls will comply * N/A No elections. Full compliance. with the provisions of the Local By-elections and one poll. Electoral Act 2001 with no successful petitions for inquiry into the conduct of elections. Compliance with statutory deadlines. Long-Term Plan, Annual Plan and Full compliance Achieved. Achieved. Annual Report will all be adopted within timeframes set in the Local Government Act 2002. Meeting agendas will be available Full compliance Achieved. Achieved. as specified by legislation.
* No triennial elections in this year.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 65 Civic and Democracy Services
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 *$’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity expenditure 5,744 5,755 5,755 5,658 Activity revenue 1 (21) (3) (3) (11) Net cost of operations 5,723 5,752 5,752 5,647 Total capital expenditure - - - -
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Reimbursement for marquee hireage costs for Royal Visit 2015.
66 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Management of Investments and Funding
Responsibility Chief Financial Officer
What we deliver This service manages all Council-owned investments, income not assignable to other activities and management of the Council’s borrowing requirements. This includes the Council’s Perpetual Investment Fund (PIF) (managed by contract with Taranaki Investment Management Limited), a 50 per cent ownership of New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture, administration of 1,500 property leases and agreements, production forestry on Council-owned land, four joint venture forestry investments, and minor equity investments in Civic Assurance Limited and the Local Government Funding Agency.
Why we do it To protect and develop key funding sources for the Council.
Significant challenges during the year The challenge for the Council was to return the PIF to a more balanced investment portfolio. To achieve this a sale of the Tasman Farms investment was required. This was achieved during the first half of 2016 with the sale of the entire Tasman Farms investment at a favourable price which has resulted in increasing the value of the fund from $253m as at 30 June 2015 to $270m as at 30 June 2016. The majority of the sale proceeds are currently in liquid assets. This will be reinvested over the coming year in line with the PIF’s strategic asset allocation.
Internal borrowing The Council manages all funding and equity as a centralised function ensuring cash and borrowing resources are used in an optimal manner. There is an element of funding per activity which, at times, is effectively internally borrowed as excess reserve funds are sometimes used instead of borrowing externally.
Balance as Borrowings Repayments Balance as at 1 July at 30 June $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 General Rate activities 28,766 5,336 (2,422) 31,680 Water Supply 27,338 891 (1,621) 26,608 Wastewater Treatment 60,700 999 (3,528) 58,171 Solid Waste and Kerbside Collection 764 3,039 (3,214) 589 Total Council borrowing 117,568 10,265 (10,785) 117,048 External borrowing 113,650 - (3,650) 110,000 Net internal borrowing 3,918 10,265 (7,135) 7,048
Levels of service and performance information
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 Results/ 2014/15 Target Comments Results/Comments Manage the Perpetual Investment Fund (PIF) to provide sustainable revenue flows to the Council. A release to the Council before $7.36m $7.34m. $6.8m (target $9.1m). costs of Tasman Investment Due largely to the Council’s Management Limited as release strong cash position where rule covers both from the PIF in external borrowings was $15m accordance with the release rule. less than budget, the Council made the decision to cancel the fourth quarter release of $2.27m.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 67 Management of Investments and Funding
Performance measure 2015/16 Rating 2015/16 Results/ 2014/15 Target Comments Results/Comments Manage the Council’s borrowing programme in compliance with the Liability Management Policy. Debt levels and costs within limits All measures All measures met. All measures met. set by policy. met Net debt not to exceed 135 per All measures All measures met. All measures met. cent of total revenues including met rates. Pre-tax funds from operations to All measures All measures met. All measures met. exceed net interest expense by at met least 2.5 times.
Cost of Service Statement for the year ended 30 June 2016 The table below provides a summary of net operating costs and capital expenditure.
Actual Adj Budget Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16* 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 OPERATIONS Activity Expenditure Investment management 1 1,862 3,043 3,043 (406) Afforestation 2 231 - - 206 Afforestation Joint Venture 2 1,031 1,514 1,514 33 Operational property 3 2,405 1,568 1,568 5,496 Total activity expenditure 5,529 6,125 6,125 5,329 Activity revenue Investment management 4 11,631 10,912 10,912 10,761 Afforestation 2 420 - - 244 Afforestation Joint Venture 2 2,532 1,647 1,647 - Operational property 3 2,844 2,383 2,383 5,999 Total activity revenue 17,427 14,942 14,942 17,004 Net cost of operations (11,898) (8,817) (8,817) (11,675) CAPITAL EXPENDITURE Renewals - 251 251 - Service level improvements - 251 251 - Total capital expenditure - 502 502 -
* The adjusted budget 2015/16 reflects the items carried forward from 2014/15 as approved by the Council.
Budget variations
1. Lower than budget due to management advisory costs reallocated to Tasmanian Land Company Ltd.
2. With higher log prices, harvesting in both Council-owned and joint venture forests was commenced resulting in expenditure savings and additional revenue.
3. Operational property expenses include Waitara harbour lease legal costs and higher recovery of costs from the Airport and Yarrow Stadium.
4. Investment management revenue is up mainly to higher interest income due to higher levels of cash reserves as a result of lower than planned capital expenditure.
68 COUNCIL SERVICES New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding from external sponsors
Funding from external sponsors The Council would like to gratefully acknowledge and thank the following funders.
Funder Description Amount Australia Council for the Arts Travel for Australian artists to New Zealand (Govett-Brewster Art $38,300 Gallery) AWE Water safety programme (Recreation and Events) $43,270 BDO Cyclist skills programme (Transportation) $10,000 Creative New Zealand Artist visits and residencies (Govett-Brewster Art Gallery) $23,000 Fairfax Media Opening events (Govett-Brewster Art Gallery) $5,000 Tamanui children’s competition (Puke Ariki) $2,080 Friends of Govett-Brewster Art Opening events (Govett-Brewster Art Gallery) $2,000 Gallery/Len Lye Centre Friends of Puke Ariki Summer reading programme (Puke Ariki) $1,500 George Mason Charitable Trust Summer student - summer reading programme (Puke Ariki) $5,000 Govett-Brewster Foundation Opening events and acquisition of artworks (Govett-Brewster Art $116,796 Gallery) Govett Quilliam The Lawyers Monica Brewster evenings (Govett-Brewster Art Gallery) $11,626 Len Lye Centre Trust Equipment enhancements (Govett-Brewster Art Gallery) $68,900 LEOTC (Ministry of Education) Education programme (Govett-Brewster Art Gallery) $60,800 Education programme (Puke Ariki) $60,800 Lion Foundation Festival of Lights - sound and lighting (Recreation and Events) $23,400 Scooter Skills programme (Transportation) $6,600 Methanex Book in Every Back Pack (over two years) Waitara Library (Puke $11,609 Ariki) Ministry for Culture and Heritage Waitangi Day event (Recreation and Events) $3,000 NZCT Festival of Lights - printing and street flags (Recreation and $30,000 Events) Ngati Rähiri Hapū o Te Atiawa Conservation project (Puke Ariki) $5,000 Shell Todd Oil Services Resurface Waitara Beach boardwalk (Parks) $105,000 ‘What are you missing?’ road safety campaign (Transportation) $15,000 Southern Trust Festival of Lights - security service (Recreation and Events) $20,000 Taranaki Electricity Trust Final Stage Swainson/Woods project via Puke Ariki Trust (Puke $20,376 Ariki) Taranaki Regional Council Temporary exhibition Sunlight, STQRY, Events (Puke Ariki) $125,000 TSB Community Trust Festival of Lights - on stage programme and provision of regional $110,000 buses (Recreation and Events) Waitangi Day event (Recreation and Events) $5,000 Community engagement programmes associated with Wellington $72,500 Phoenix v NZ A, Georgie Pie Super Smash T20 cricket, Central Pulse netball and New Zealand Warriors (Recreation and Events) Marfell Community Space Development (Parks) $230,000 Waitara River Pathway interpretation signage (Parks) $31,500 Temporary exhibitions - Musik (Puke Ariki) $49,000 School Transport project (Puke Ariki, Govett-Brewster Art Gallery) $10,000 Victoria University of Wellington Student subsidy - Garrison Book (Puke Ariki) $3,000
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL SERVICES 69
Financial Statements
Financial Statements: Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense ...... 72 Statement of Financial Position...... 73 Statement of Changes in Equity...... 74 Statement of Cash Flows...... 75
Notes to the Financial Statements: 1. General information...... 76 2. Basis of Accounting...... 76 3. Investment revenue...... 78 4. Other revenue...... 78 5. Rates...... 78 6. Subsidies and grants...... 79 7. Depreciation and amortisation expense...... 80 8. Other expenses...... 80 9. Taxation...... 81 10. Discontinued operations...... 83 11. Cash and cash equivalents...... 83 12. Trade and other receivables...... 84 13. Other financial assets...... 85 14. Tasmanian Land Company Limited...... 85 15. Perpetual Investment Fund...... 86 16. Forestry assets...... 87 17. Joint ventures...... 88 18. Livestock and agricultural produce...... 89 19. Property, plant and equipment...... 90 20. Non-current assets held for sale...... 97 21. Insurance cover...... 97 22. Trade and other payables...... 97 23. Public debt and other loans...... 98 24. Special funds/reserves...... 98 25. Retained earnings...... 100 26. Asset revaluation reserve...... 101 27. Derivatives...... 102 28. Statement of cash flows reconciliation...... 103 29. Financial instruments...... 104 30. Capital management...... 110 31. Major budget variations...... 111 32. Related parties transactions...... 112 33. Remuneration...... 113 34. Severance payments...... 114 35. Commitments...... 115 36. Contingencies...... 115 37. Subsequent events...... 116
Funding Impact Statements...... 117
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 71 Financial Statements
Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense For the year ended 30 June 2016
Council Group 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Budget Actual Actual Actual Note $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Operating revenue Revenue from exchange transactions: Finance revenue 1,861 1,900 2,242 3,232 2,278 Investment revenue 3 24,729 11,790 44,242 7,213 7,517 Other revenue 4 32,676 26,770 30,536 128,875 30,318 Revenue from non-exchange transactions: Rates 5 77,547 77,929 73,030 77,547 73,030 Subsidies and grants 6 10,945 10,410 15,132 12,303 15,346 Development and financial contributions 1,071 1,020 1,554 1,071 1,554 Vested assets 19 5,934 3,020 4,111 5,934 4,111 Fines and levies 1,511 1,911 1,498 1,511 1,498 Total operating revenue 156,274 134,750 172,345 237,686 135,652 Operating expenditure Personnel costs 33,976 35,920 35,106 47,268 37,131 Depreciation and amortisation expenses 7 31,117 31,600 30,859 32,809 30,859 Finance costs 5,704 7,570 5,923 7,872 5,923 Other expenses 8 66,990 53,440 55,506 99,364 53,746 Total operating expenditure 137,787 128,530 127,394 187,313 127,659 Surplus/(deficit) before taxation 18,487 6,220 44,951 50,373 7,993 Taxation refund/(expense) 9 (162) (120) 25 (14,772) 25 SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) AFTER TAXATION FROM 18,325 6,100 44,976 35,601 8,018 CONTINUED OPERATIONS Surplus/(deficit) after taxation from discontinued operations - - - - 2,999 SURPLUS/(DEFICIT) AFTER TAXATION 18,325 6,100 44,976 35,601 11,017 Comprising surplus/(deficit) attributable to: Parent interest 18,325 6,100 44,976 35,601 11,017 Minority interest in surplus of subsidiary - - - - -
Other comprehensive revenue and expense Gain/(loss) on property, plant and equipment revaluations 147,698 173,400 (193) 147,698 (193) Tax on other comprehensive revenue and expense - - - - 24,898 Foreign currency translation - - - (15,444) 6,495 Total other comprehensive revenue and expense 147,698 173,400 (193) 132,254 31,200 TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE REVENUE AND EXPENSE 166,023 179,500 44,783 167,855 42,217 Total comprehensive revenue and expense attributable to: New Plymouth District Council 166,023 179,500 44,783 167,855 42,217 Minority interest in surplus of subsidiary - - - - - The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. Explanation of major variances against budget are included in Note 31.
72 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Financial Statements
Statement of Financial Position As at 30 June 2016 Council Group 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Budget Actual Actual Actual Note $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents 11 9,492 1,500 16,035 227,862 17,091 Trade and other receivables 12 14,309 18,560 17,797 15,527 25,704 Prepayments 823 - 22 827 22 Inventory 94 100 117 94 158 Livestock and agricultural produce 18 - - - - 9,561 Intangible assets 618 - - 618 - Other financial assets 13 36,909 36,990 30,878 36,909 30,878 Derivative financial assets 27 - - 42 - 42 Non-current assets held for sale 20 1,410 2,740 167,375 1,410 244,756 Total current assets 63,655 59,890 232,266 283,247 328,212 Non-current assets Other financial assets 13 91,738 65,250 92,447 87,006 92,447 Tasmanian Land Company Limited 14 183,796 165,290 - - - Intangible assets 3,035 1,710 2,931 3,071 2,992 Forestry assets 16 3,107 1,970 3,346 3,107 3,346 Derivative financial assets 27 85 1,320 910 85 910 Deferred tax asset 9 2 - 3 116 3 Property, plant and equipment 19 2,142,457 2,155,970 1,990,368 2,142,670 1,990,580 Total non-current assets 2,424,220 2,391,510 2,090,005 2,236,055 2,090,278 TOTAL ASSETS 2,487,875 2,451,400 2,322,271 2,519,302 2,418,490 Current Liabilities Trade and other payables 22 14,346 21,420 16,956 16,545 24,463 Revenue in advance 3,090 - 2,893 3,105 2,893 Public debt and other loans 23 39,000 39,220 47,650 39,000 120,508 Employee entitlements 3,439 - 4,090 3,897 4,090 Other provisions 2,257 - 94 2,257 94 Provision for tax 78 - 16 28,366 16 Deferred tax liability 9 - - - - 15,471 Derivative financial liabilities 27 277 50 24 277 24 Total current liabilities 62,487 60,690 71,723 93,447 167,559 Non-current liabilities Employee entitlements 767 950 852 767 852 Deferred tax liability 9 1,420 - 1,142 1,420 1,142 Derivative financial liabilities 27 8,583 1,060 5,022 8,583 5,022 Other provisions 1,525 1,620 1,462 1,525 1,462 Public debt and other loans 23 71,000 78,860 66,000 71,000 66,000 Total non-current liabilities 83,295 82,490 74,478 83,295 74,478 TOTAL LIABILITIES 145,782 143,180 146,201 176,742 242,037 Public equity Special funds/reserves 24 85,250 69,150 80,356 85,306 80,412 Retained earnings 25 1,511,131 1,466,350 1,497,700 1,509,845 1,398,691 Minority interest - - - - - Currency fluctuation reserve - - - 1,697 (14,941) Asset revaluation reserve 745,712 772,720 598,014 745,712 712,291 Total public equity 2,342,093 2,308,220 2,176,070 2,342,560 2,176,453 TOTAL EQUITY AND LIABILITES 2,487,875 2,451,400 2,322,271 2,519,302 2,418,490 The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. Explanation of major variances against budget are included in Note 31.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 73 Financial Statements
Statement of Changes in Equity For the year ended 30 June 2016
Council Group 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Budget Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Equity at the beginning of the year 2,176,070 2,128,720 2,131,287 2,176,453 2,133,843 Net surplus/(deficit) from continued operations 18,325 6,100 44,976 35,601 8,018 Net surplus/(deficit) from discontinued operations - - - - 2,999 Other comprehensive revenue and expense 147,698 173,400 (193) 132,254 31,200 Total comprehensive revenue and expense 166,023 179,500 44,783 167,855 42,217 Share issue - - - - 3,365 Purchase of minority interest - - - - (2,972) Equity adjustment - - - (1,748) - EQUITY AT THE END OF THE YEAR 2,342,093 2,308,220 2,176,070 2,342,560 2,176,453 Total comprehensive revenue and expense attributable to: New Plymouth District Council 166,023 179,500 44,783 167,855 42,217 Minority interest in surplus of subsidiary - - - - - The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. Explanation of major variances against budget are included in Note 31.
74 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Financial Statements
Statement of Cash Flows For the year ended 30 June 2016
Council Group 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Budget Actual Actual Actual Note $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Cash flows from operating activities Receipts from rates revenue 77,467 75,960 74,781 77,467 74,781 Interest received 1,750 7,340 2,761 3,121 2,801 Dividends received 1,157 1,440 5,821 1,157 5,821 Other revenue received 49,823 47,130 52,185 99,166 105,880 Payments to suppliers and employees (96,803) (99,610) (92,536) (147,390) (141,039) Goods and services tax (net) 256 - (450) 277 (383) Income tax paid 98 (120) (30) 98 (30) Interest paid (5,872) (7,590) (5,988) (8,040) (9,250) Net cash flows from operating activities 28 27,876 24,550 36,544 25,856 38,581 Cash flows from investing activities Receipts from sale of property, plant and equipment 1,504 640 1,634 1,504 1,705 Receipts from disposal of business operation --- 304,642 - Receipts from sale of dairy stock - - - 3,614 2,274 Receipts from sale of other financial assets 38,094 - 147,986 38,093 147,986 Purchase of property, plant and equipment (31,231) (35,460) (36,672) (36,221) (38,429) Purchase of dairy stock - - - (289) (215) Purchase of intangible assets (1,621) - (1,269) (1,629) (1,332) Purchase of other financial assets (37,515) - (141,126) (37,517) (141,126) Net cash flows from investing activities (30,769) (34,820) (29,447) 272,197 (29,137) Cash flows from financing activities Proceeds from borrowings 46,000 8,080 37,000 46,000 37,660 Repayment of borrowings (49,650) (4,380) (34,304) (120,296) (37,000) Net cash flows from financing activities (3,650) 3,700 2,696 (74,296) 660 NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN CASH AND CASH (6,543) (6,570) 9,793 223,757 10,104 EQUIVALENTS Effects of exchange rate changes on transactions in foreign - - - (12,986) - currencies Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 16,035 8,070 6,242 17,091 6,987 CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS AT THE END OF THE 11 9,492 1,500 16,035 227,862 17,091 YEAR The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements. Explanation of major variances against budget are included in Note 31.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 75 Notes to the Financial Statements
1. General information New Plymouth District Council (the Council) is a territorial local authority governed by the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA) and is domiciled and operates in New Zealand. The relevant legislation governing the Council’s operations includes the LGA and the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 (LG(R)A).
The primary objective of the Council is to provide goods or services for the community, for social benefit rather than financial return.
The Council, its subsidiaries and joint ventures (together the Group) are designated as public benefit entities (PBEs) for financial reporting purposes.
The Council’s subsidiaries are established and domiciled in New Zealand, except for Tasmanian Land Company Limited and Group which are incorporated and domiciled in Australia.
The financial statements of the Council and Group are for the year ended 30 June 2016.The financial statements were authorised for issue by the Council on 7 October 2016.
Separate financial statements have been prepared for each of the Council-Controlled Organisations for the year ended 30 June 2016.
2. Basis of Accounting Basis of preparation The financial statements of the Council and Group have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the LGA, LG(R)A and New Zealand Generally Accepted Accounting Practice (NZ GAAP).
The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Tier 1 PBE accounting standards and comply with PBE standards.
The financial statements have been prepared on the going concern basis and the accounting policies have been applied consistently throughout the period.
The financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis modified by revaluation of certain assets and liabilities. The financial statements are presented in New Zealand dollars which is the functional currency of the Council and the presentation currency for the Group.
Transactions in foreign currencies are initially recorded in the functional currency by applying the exchange rates on the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are retranslated at the rate of exchange on the statement of financial position date.
Translation of the Group’s functional currency to presentation currency: All foreign operations are independent. The Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense and Statement of Cash Flows of those operations are translated into NZ$ (the presentation currency) using the spot exchange rate at the date of the transactions. The Statement of Financial Position of those operations are translated at the exchange rate prevailing at the balance date. Foreign exchange gains and losses resulting from the settlement of transactions and from the translation at year end exchange rates of monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies are recognised in other comprehensive revenue and expense.
The financial statements are prepared on a GST exclusive basis with the exception of receivables and payables, which include GST where GST has been invoiced.
Basis of consolidation The consolidated financial statements are prepared by adding together like items of assets, liabilities, equity, revenue and expenses on a line-by-line basis. All significant intra-group balances, transactions, revenues and expenses are eliminated on consolidation.
76 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
Subsidiaries The Council consolidates in the Group financial statements all entities where the Council has the capacity to control their financing and operating policies so as to obtain benefits from the activities of the subsidiary. This power exists where the Council controls the majority voting power on the governing body or where such policies have been irreversibly predetermined by the Council or where the determination of such policies is unable to materially affect the level of potential ownership benefits that arise from the activities of the subsidiary.
The Council’s investment in the following subsidiaries is carried at cost in the parent entity financial statements:
• Taranaki Investment Management Limited (TIML) - 100% owned and incorporated in New Zealand. • Venture Taranaki Trust – 100% owned. • Len Lye Centre Trust – 100% owned. The Council’s investment in the following subsidiary has been classified as a financial asset at fair value through surplus or deficit (refer to Note 29 for further details):
• Tasmanian Land Company Limited (TLC) – 100% owned and incorporated in Australia. As at 30 June 2015 the TLC held the following interests in other entities:
• Tasman Farms Limited (TFL) – 100% owned and incorporated in New Zealand. • The Van Diemen’s Land Company (VDL) - 1.6% owned and incorporated in the United Kingdom. Tasman Farms Limited held the remaining 98.4% share of The Van Diemen’s Land Company.
The Van Diemen’s Land Company had a 100% shareholding in Tasman Farmdale Pty Limited, incorporated in Australia.
TLC through TFL and VDL owned and operated a large scale dairy and pastoral farming business in the north-west of Tasmania. On 31 March 2016, TLC sold its interests in TFL and VDL and as at 30 June 2016 only holds cash investments. The Council’s investment in TLC is part of the Perpetual Investment Fund.
TIML, Venture Taranaki Trust and TLC are Council-controlled Organisations as defined in the LGA.
Joint venture A joint venture is a binding arrangement whereby two or more parties are committed to undertake an economic activity that is subject to joint control. For jointly controlled operations, the Council and Group recognises in its financial statements the assets it controls, the liabilities and expenses it incurs and the share of revenue it earns from the joint venture. The Council recognises in its parent entity financial statements its share of the assets, liabilities, revenue and expenditure of the airport joint venture and the four forestry joint ventures based on the proportionate method for accounting for joint ventures.
Standards issued and not yet effective and not early adopted The following Accounting Standards, issued or amended which are applicable to the Group (but not yet effective) have not been adopted for the annual report ended 30 June 2016.
During the year the PBE suite of accounting standards was updated under the title 2015 Omnibus Amendments to PBE Standards. This update was for two key purposes, to incorporate amendments to align PBE standards with New Zealand International Financial Reporting Standards (NZ IFRS) as a consequence of the International Accounting Standards Board’s (IASB) annual improvements to IFRS, and also to align PBE standards with International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board’s (IPSASB) Improvements to IPSASs 2014. The Council will apply these updated standards in preparing its 30 June 2017 financial statements. The Council expects there will be minimal or no chance in applying these updated accounting standards.
Critical accounting estimates and assumptions In preparing these financial statements the Council and Group have made estimates and assumptions concerning the future in relation to infrastructure assets. These estimates and assumptions may differ from the subsequent actual results. Estimates and judgements are continually evaluated and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations or future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. Details of the estimates and judgements of infrastructure assets are outlined in Note 19.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 77 Notes to the Financial Statements
2. Basis of Accounting (continued) Budget figures The budget figures are those approved by the Council at the beginning of the year in the TPL 2015 - 2025. The budget figures have been prepared in accordance with NZ GAAP, using accounting policies that are consistent with those adopted by the Council for the preparation of the financial statements. The budget for rates revenue has been amended to include the rates from water by meter charges. In the LTP 2015 - 2025 the budget for rates from water by meter charges was included in the Other Revenue line. This adjustment has been made to allow for comparison purposes.
Comparative figures Comparative information has been reclassified as appropriate to achieve consistency in disclosure with the current year. 3. Investment revenue Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Dividends 1,157 5,822 1,157 3,189 Interest earned 282 519 282 519 Realised gains on investments 5,780 3,809 5,774 3,809 Unrealised gains on investments 17,510 34,092 - - Total investment revenue 24,729 44,242 7,213 7,517
4. Other revenue Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 User fees and charges 13,789 12,388 13,544 12,388 Other revenue 8,367 8,299 50,294 8,081 Regulatory revenue 5,023 4,510 5,023 4,510 Property rent and charges 4,310 3,822 4,283 3,822 Levies and rebates 561 892 561 892 Council venue hire 626 625 626 625 Gain on disposal of business operation (TFL/VDL) - - 54,544 - Total other revenue 32,676 30,536 128,875 30,318 Other revenue is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Other revenue is recognised at the time of invoicing, performance of a service or receipt of an application for a service or licence. Levies are recognised when assessments or infringements are issued.
5. Rates Council and Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 General rates 48,233 45,091 Refuse collection - Uniform Annual Charge 2,257 1,685 Sewerage - Uniform Annual Charge 13,084 12,617 Water - Uniform Annual Charge 6,562 6,627 Roading - Uniform Annual Charge 3,591 3,513 Water - targeted metered rates 3,820 3,497 Total rates 77,547 73,030
78 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
General rates and uniform annual general charges are recognised when assessments are issued or penalties are incurred. Water by meter rates is recognised on an accrual basis. Unbilled usage, as a result of unread meters at year end, is accrued on an average usage basis.
Rates collected on behalf of Taranaki Regional Council (TRC) are not recognised in the financial statements as the Council is acting as an agent for the TRC.
Rates remissions The Council allows for the rate remissions for community, sporting and similar organisations and on Maori freehold land in terms of the Council’s rate remission policies, pursuant to LG(R)A. In 2015/16, the Council allowed remission of $512,000 (2014/15: $499,000) excluding GST.
Rates remissions are recognised as a reduction of rates revenue when the Council has received an application that satisfies its rates remission policy.
In accordance with the LG(R)A, certain properties are designated as non rateable. The Council does not rate such properties and they are not included in the following remission figures. 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 Community organisations 361 350 Maori freehold land 24 23 Land protected for natural conservation purposes 127 126 Postponed rates (including GST) 81 67
Rating base information 2015/16* Projected number of rating units 35,990 Projected total capital value of rating units ($'m) 16,670 Projected total land value of rating units ($'m) 8,596
* Actual rates strike figures as at 30 June 2015 on which the 2015/16 rates were based.
6. Subsidies and grants Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Operating subsidies and grants 5,497 5,162 6,855 5,376 Capital NZTA - roads 5,334 4,802 5,334 4,802 Capital - other 114 5,168 114 5,168 Total subsidies and grants 10,945 15,132 12,303 15,346
New Zealand Transport Agency roading subsidies are recognised as revenue when conditions pertaining to eligible expenditure have been fulfilled. Other grants are recognised as revenue when they become receivable, unless there is an obligation in substance to return the funds if conditions are not met. If there is such an obligation, the grant is initially recorded as revenue in advance, and recognised as revenue when the conditions of the grant are satisfied.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 79 Notes to the Financial Statements
7. Depreciation and amortisation expense Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Parks 2,450 2,318 2,450 2,318 Roads and Footpaths 10,266 10,342 10,266 10,342 Stormwater Drainage 1,845 1,641 1,845 1,641 Flood Protection and Control Works 147 116 147 116 Solid Waste and Refuse Collection 279 79 279 79 Water Supply 3,976 3,862 3,976 3,862 Wastewater Treatment 5,472 5,245 5,472 5,245 Emergency Management and Business Continuance - - - - Community Partnerships 292 276 292 276 Govett-Brewster Art Gallery 465 143 465 143 Puke Ariki and District Libraries 1,793 1,760 1,793 1,760 Recreation and Events 1,290 1,247 1,290 1,247 Regulatory Services 279 279 279 279 Economic Development - - - - Civic and Democracy Services - - - - Management of Investments and Funding - - - - Support Services 2,241 3,238 2,352 3,238 Council-controlled Organisations 322 313 1,903 313 Total depreciation and amortisation expense 31,117 30,859 32,809 30,859
8. Other expenses Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 General operating expenses 27,350 19,418 60,169 17,524 Direct cost of activities and materials 32,053 31,653 30,204 31,653 Change in provision for doubtful debts 99 - 99 - Bad debts - 62 - 62 Litigation settlements 1,525 - 2,335 - Audit fees for annual financial statements (Audit NZ) 189 192 228 192 Audit fees for annual financial statements (Ernst & Young) - - 61 134 Audit fees for Long Term Plan 2015-2025 (Audit NZ) - 119 - 119 Audit fees for Debenture Trust Deed (Audit NZ) 4 2 4 2 Computer leases/other operating lease costs 58 64 203 64 Directors fees - - 356 - Net loss on sale of assets 1,005 242 998 242 Impairment 1,510 - 1,510 - Net (gain) on forestry assets (682) (276) (682) (276) Net (gain) on carbon credits (801) (268) (801) (268) Net loss on derivatives 4,680 4,298 4,680 4,298 Total other expenses 66,990 55,506 99,364 53,746
Litigation settlements paid during the year relate to weathertightness claims (refer to contingent liabilities note for outstanding claims) and settlement of legal action taken against TIML in relation to the Tasman Farms sale.
80 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
9. Taxation Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Surplus/(deficit) from continuing operations 18,487 44,951 50,373 7,993 Surplus/(deficit) from discontinued operations - - - 3,949 Total surplus/(deficit) from operations before income tax 18,487 44,951 50,373 11,942 Tax at 28% 5,176 12,586 14,104 3,344 Non-assessable revenue (net) (5,014) (12,611) 668 (2,419) Total income tax (refund)/expense 162 (25) 14,772 925 Tax expense on continued operations 162 (25) 14,772 (25) Tax expense on discontinued operations - - - 950 Represented by: Current tax 125 30 14,649 2 Deferred tax 37 (55) 123 923 Total income tax refund/(expense) 162 (25) 14,772 925
The Council has unrecognised tax losses available for carryforward of $1,271,681 (2015: $2,161,966).
Income tax is recognised in surplus or deficit except to the extent that it relates to items recognised directly in other comprehensive revenue and expense, in which case the income tax is recognised in other comprehensive revenue and expense.
Current tax is the amount of tax payable based on the taxable surplus for the current year plus any adjustments to tax payable in respect of prior years. Current tax is calculated using rates that have been enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period.
Deferred tax asset Property, Other Losses Total Plant and Provisions Equipment $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Council Balance as at 30 June 2014 - 3 - 3 Charged to surplus/(deficit) - - - - Charged to comprehensive revenue and expense - - - - Balance as at 30 June 2015 - 3 - 3 Charged to surplus/(deficit) - (1) - (1) Charged to comprehensive revenue and expense - - - - Balance as at 30 June 2016 - 2 - 2 Group Balance as at 30 June 2014 - 3 - 3 Charged to surplus/(deficit) - - - - Charged to comprehensive revenue and expense - - - - Balance as at 30 June 2015 - 3 - 3 Charged to surplus/(deficit) - 113 - 113 Charged to comprehensive revenue and expense - - - - Balance as at 30 June 2016 - 116 - 116
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 81 Notes to the Financial Statements
9. Taxation (continued) Deferred tax liability Property, Other Losses Total Plant and Provisions Equipment $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Council Balance as at 30 June 2014 (1,197) - - (1,197) Charged to surplus/(deficit) 55 - - 55 Charged to comprehensive revenue and expense - - - - Balance as at 30 June 2015 (1,142) - - (1,142) Charged to surplus/(deficit) (37) - - (37) Charged to comprehensive revenue and expense (241) - - (241) Balance as at 30 June 2016 (1,420) - - (1,420) Group Balance as at 30 June 2014 (42,717) (111) 2,240 (40,588) Charged to surplus/(deficit) 13,286 (12,191) (2,018) (923) Charged to comprehensive revenue and expense 24,898 - - 24,898 Balance as at 30 June 2015 (4,533) (12,302) 222 (16,613) Charged to surplus/(deficit) 3,113 12,302 (222) 15,193 Charged to comprehensive revenue and expense - - - - Balance as at 30 June 2016 (1,420) - - (1,420)
Deferred tax is calculated using the balance sheet liability method, providing for temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and the amounts used for taxation purposes.The amount of deferred tax provided is based on the expected manner of realisation or settlement of the carrying amount of assets and liabilities, using tax rates enacted or substantively enacted at the end of the reporting period.
82 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
10. Discontinued operations TLC was classified as a non-current asset held for sale at 30 June 2015 (see Note 20). Under PBE IFRS 5, a separate major activity classified as held for sale must be disclosed as discontinued operations. WhileTLC was for sale, it continued to trade very strongly until the date of sale - 31 March 2016.
The financial performance of TLC was as follows: Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Operating revenue Finance revenue 1,338 3 Other revenue 99,597 56,230 Total operating revenue 100,935 56,233 Operating expenditure Personnel costs 10,452 7,128 Depreciation and amortisation expense 1,577 1,856 Finance costs 2,168 3,261 Other expenses 37,445 40,039 Total operating expenditure 51,642 52,284 Surplus/(deficit) before taxation 49,293 3,949 Taxation refund/(expense) (14,593) (950) Surplus/(deficit) after taxation 34,700 2,999 Net cash flows Operating activities (2,165) 4,632 Investing activities 298.348 406 Financing activities (69,544) (4,680) Total net cash flows 226,639 358 11. Cash and cash equivalents Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Cash at bank and on hand 2,492 7,035 220,862 8,091 Term deposits with maturities of less than three months at 7,000 9,000 7,000 9,000 acquisition Total cash and cash equivalents 9,492 16,035 227,862 17,091
The Council holds funds, included in cash and cash equivalents and other financial assets (refer Note 13), of $43.48m (2015: $46.85m) that are subject to restrictions. These unspent funds relate to trusts and bequests received (see Note 24), lump sum contributions and other funds received with restrictions where the spending of the funds is separately monitored. The restrictions generally specify how the funds are required to be spent.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 83 Notes to the Financial Statements
12. Trade and other receivables Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Trade receivables 7,047 12,905 7,989 12,938 Rates 2,337 2,257 2,337 2,257 Accrued revenue 1,310 1,216 1,569 1,216 GST receivable 1,201 1,457 1,180 1,457 Other receivables 2,622 70 2,660 7,944 14,517 17,905 15,735 25,812 Less provision for impairment (208) (108) (208) (108) Total trade and other receivables 14,309 17,797 15,527 25,704 Total rates receivable comprise: Receivables from non-exchange transactions - this includes 3,767 3,157 3,767 3,157 outstanding amounts for rates, grants, infringements and fees and charges that are partly subsidised by rates. Receivables from exchange transactions - this includes 10,542 14,640 11,760 22,547 outstanding amounts for commercial sales and fees and charges that have not been subsidised by rates. The aging profile of receivables at 30 June is detailed below: Not past due 9,942 13,124 11,160 21,031 Past due 1 - 30 days 662 612 662 612 Past due 31 - 60 days 224 403 224 403 Past due 61 - 90 days 201 250 201 250 Past due > 90 days 3,280 3,408 3,280 3,408 14,309 17,797 15,527 25,704
Receivables are recorded at their face value, less any provision for impairments.
Fair value Debtors and other receivables are non-interest bearing and receipt is normally on 30-day terms. Therefore, the carrying amount of debtors and other receivables approximates their fair value.
Impairment The Council does not provide for any impairment on rates receivable as it has various powers under the LG(R)A to recover any outstanding debts. These powers allow the Council to commence legal proceedings to recover any rates that remain unpaid four months after the due date for payment. Ratepayers can apply for payment plan options in special circumstances.
Provision has been made in respect of all other receivables where there is objective evidence that the Council will not be able to collect the amounts as per the original terms of the receivables.
84 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
13. Other financial assets Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual Note $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Current assets New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture loan 68 68 68 68 Bonds 250 - 250 - Term deposits 36,591 30,810 36,591 30,810 Total current other financial assets 36,909 30,878 36,909 30,878 Non-current assets Mortgages/other loans 1,241 989 1,241 989 Bonds 600 850 600 850 Term deposits 480 - 480 - Local authority stock 996 996 996 996 NZ LGFA 504 504 504 504 New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture loan 1,506 1,224 1,506 1,224 Bonds, shares and other investments (PIF) 15 270,207 253,275 81,679 87,884 Less: Tasmanian Land Company Limited 14 (183,796) (165,391) - - Total non-current other financial assets 91,738 92,447 87,006 92,447 Total other financial assets 128,647 123,325 123,915 123,325
New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture loan The carrying amount the loan to the New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture is $1.57m (2015: $1.29m). The carrying amount represents the Crown’s share of the loan and approximates its fair value. The Council’s share of the loan has been eliminated on consolidation.
Mortgages/other loans Mortgages held represent specific funds held in special reserves. Interest earnt on Mortgages is allocated to the relevant special reserves and used for the specified purpose. Other loans are to ratepayers for the home insulation scheme administered by the Council. The carrying value of other loans is $0.91m (2015: $0.66m).The carrying value of Mortgages and other loans approximates its fair value. New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture loan, term deposits and mortgages/other loans are categorised as loans and receivable financial assets. After initial recognition, they are measured at amortised cost, using the effective interest method, less impairment. Gains and losses when the asset is impaired or de-recognised are recognised in the surplus or deficit.
Local Authority Stock/NZ LGFA These represent Council’s shares in the New Zealand Government Funding Agency (LGFA). The Council also has uncalled capital equal to the individual shareholding, which can be called in the event that an imminent default is identified (refer to Note 35 for further details). These investments are measured at fair value, with gains and losses recognised in other comprehensive revenue and expense, except for impairment losses, which are recognised in the surplus or deficit. The investments are assessed for impairment at each balance date. A significant or prolonged decline in the fair value of the investment below its cost is considered objective evidence of impairment. On de-recognition, the cumulative gain or loss previously recognised in other comprehensive revenue and expense is reclassified from equity to the surplus or deficit. The carrying value of the Council’s shareholding in LGFA is $1m (2015: $1m) which approximates their fair value.
14. Tasmanian Land Company Limited 2015/16 2014/15 New Plymouth District Council 88,459,358 88,459,358 Tasmanian Land Company Limited shares on issue at 30 June 88,439,358 88,439,358 Percentage of shareholding 100% 100% Value of shareholding ($,000's) 183,796 165,391
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 85 Notes to the Financial Statements
14. Tasmanian Land Company Limited (continued) The Tasmanian Land Company Limited (TLC) was incorporated on 5 August 2014. On April 2015, TLC acquired all the shares in TFL. The transaction was a business restructure between entities under the control of the Council and was accounted for as a continuation of the existing TFL Group.
The subsidiaries of TLC had financial years that run for 12 months to 31 May in line with the farming cycle. TLC’s financial period runs to 30 June. Consolidation procedures in the prior year took into account any significant transactions or events that have occurred between the subsidiaries and TLC’s reporting date. TLC was valued at 30 June 2015 on a market basis. Properties included in the value are carried at their fair value as a combination of assets (being the amount for which the combination of assets could be exchanged between acknowledgeable willing parties in an arm’s length transaction), based on periodic, but at least triennial, valuations by external independent valuers, less accumulated depreciation for buildings. The Directors of TLC have determined the valuation after consideration of a range of factors, including external valuations, status of land clearance approvals and relevant market transactions. The Directors decided to hold the portfolio valuation for 30 June 2015 as prepared by CBRE Australia as at 31 May 2014. The balance as at 31 May 2015 is the valuation plus additions, less disposals and depreciation incurred throughout the 2015 financial year. Rabobank Australia Limited held a registered mortgage over the property, and a registered equitable mortgage over the assets. TLC was classified as held for sale as at 30 June 2015 (refer to Note 20). The subsidiaries of TLC were sold on 31 March 2016. Consolidation procedures in the current year have taken into account the effects of the sale. As at 30 June 2016, TLC remains a Council-controlled organisation and holds the cash from the sale of the TLC subsidiaries.
15. Perpetual Investment Fund Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Note $’000 $’000 Opening balance 253,275 217,966 Revenue and gains: Interest 282 519 Dividends 1,157 5,821 Other revenue 4,732 - Currency gains 99 91 Realised gains on disposals 5,680 3,718 Unrealised gains 17,510 34,093 Total revenue and gains 29,460 44,242 Expenses and losses: Direct expenses 150 811 Total expenses and losses 150 811 Net surplus/(deficit) for the year 29,310 43,431 Transfers in/(out) of the fund: Reimbursement of costs to the Council (5,041) (1,321) Release to the Council (including interest) (7,337) (6,801) Total transfers in/(out) of the fund (12,378) (8,122) Net change in PIF investment 16,932 35,309 Closing balance 13 270,207 253,275 Portfolio asset allocation: Alternative assets 219,044 207,068 US equity 18,043 18,673 Emerging market equity 8,785 7,877 Europe and Pacific equity 7,445 8,319 Fixed revenue 2,982 2,963 Cash 13,908 8,375 270,207 253,275
86 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
The PIF is recorded at fair value and has been independently valued by Trustee Executors Limited. Refer to Note 14 for the valuation methodology of TLC’s property values. Gains or losses on remeasurement are recognised in the surplus or deficit.
16. Forestry assets Council and Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Balance as at 1 July 3,346 3,069 Gains/(losses) arising from changes in fair value less estimated point of sale costs 734 260 attributable to price changes Decrease due to harvest (965) - Other changes (8) 17 Balance as at 30 June 3,107 3,346
The Council owns 232.0 hectares (2015: 235.6 hectares) of pinus radiata forest which are at varying stages of maturity ranging from one to 40 years. In addition, the Council is involved in four joint ventures comprising 101.9 hectares (2015: 139.3 hectares) at varying stages of maturity ranging from 16 to 30 years. Refer to Note 17 for details of the Council’s investment in the Joint Ventures.
Valuation assumptions Independent registered valuers PF Olsen Limited, have valued forestry assets as at 30 June 2016. The following significant assumptions have been adopted in determining the fair value of forestry assets:
• A post-tax discount rate of 6.5% (2015: 7.0%) has been used in discounting the present value of expected cash flows. • Notional land rental costs have been included for freehold land in respect to the Joint Ventures only. • The forest has been valued on a going-concern basis and only includes the value of the existing crops on a single rotation basis less point of sale costs estimated at 2.0% (2015: 2.0%). • No allowance for inflation has been provided. • Costs are current average costs. No allowance has been made for cost improvements in future operations. • Log prices are based on a three-year historical rolling average.
Any gains or losses on revaluation, including impairment, are recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense. The costs to maintain the forestry assets are recognised in the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense.
The Council is exposed to financial risks arising from changes in timber prices.The Council is a long-term forestry investor and does not expect timber prices to decline significantly in the foreseeable future.Therefore, no measures have been taken to manage the risks of a decline in timber prices. The Council reviews its outlook for timber prices regularly in considering the need for active financial risk management.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 87 Notes to the Financial Statements
17. Joint ventures The Council is involved in five joint venture agreements which are Council-controlled Organisations.
The Council is involved in four forestry joint venture agreements: 1. Tarata Ngatimaru Pukehou Joint Venture (60%). 2. Oakura Farms Limited Joint Venture (60%). 3. Duthie Joint Venture (54.8%). 4. McKay Joint Venture (56.5%).
The Council’s interest in these joint ventures is included in Forestry assets (refer to Note 16). Of the total Forestry assets, $0.75m (2015: $1.13m) represent the Council and Group’s interest in Joint Venture assets.
The Council and Group’s share of surplus/(deficit) in the forestry joint ventures is $0.42m (2015: $0.01m).
New Plymouth Airport The ownership and operation of New Plymouth Airport is undertaken as a joint venture between New Zealand Government (50%) and the Council (50%). The Council’s interest in the joint venture is disclosed in the financial statements under the classifications shown below:
Council and Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Property, plant and equipment: Land (operational) 7,069 7,069 Buildings 1,364 801 Furniture, fittings and equipment 88 8 Infrastructure 6,175 5,847 Work in progress 505 258 Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents 85 266 Trade and other receivables 136 68 Liabilities: Trade and other payables (161) (172) Other current liabilities (113) (79) Borrowings (1,574) (1,224) Deferred tax liability (1,420) (1,142) Share of net assets 12,154 11,700 Share of expenses 4,874 1,085 Share of revenue 1,448 1,003
88 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
18. Livestock and agricultural produce Physical Quantities Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Beef livestock - 1 - 1 Dairy livestock - 31,098 - 38,527 Fodder - - - 3,781 Total at net market value - 42,309 Attributed to: Current assets - 9,561 Non-current assets held for sale - 32,748 Total livestock and agricultural produce - 42,309 Reconciliation of carrying amount: Carrying value at beginning of period 38,528 38,224 Sales (44,912) (5,638) Purchases 174 215 Foreign exchange adjustment (1,559) 1,361 Gains/(losses) arising from changes in fair value attributable 7,769 7,582 to physical changes Gains/(losses) arising from changes in fair value attributable - (3,216) to price changes Carrying value at end of period - 38,528
Livestock includes beef and dairy cattle held by the TLC subsidiaries. Agricultural produce represents harvested and stored fodder held by the TLC subsidiaries. Livestock and agricultural produce are measured at fair value less costs to sell, with any change recognised in the surplus or deficit for the period in which it arises. Costs to sell include all costs that would be necessary to sell the assets, including freight and direct selling costs.
The fair value of livestock and agricultural produce is based on its present location and condition. If an active or other effective market exists for livestock or agricultural produce in its present location and condition, the quoted price in that market is the appropriate basis for determining the fair value of the asset. Where there exists access to different markets, the most relevant market is used, being defined as the market “that access is available to the entity”, which is used at the time fair value is established.
In this case, active markets are deemed to exist and have been used to determine the fair value. All livestock were valued at 31 May 2015 by independent valuers. Livestock values were based on an appraisal undertaken by Peter Townsend, livestock agent for Roberts Limited. Agricultural produce was based on an appraisal undertaken by independent farm consultant Penny Williams. Any movement in valuation due to biological changes or market price is recorded in the surplus or deficit.
The subsidiaries of TLC were sold during the current year, therefore no valuation was performed for 31 May 2016 and no livestock and agricultural assets are recorded as at 30 June 2016.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 89 Notes to the Financial Statements
19. Property, plant and equipment Cost/ Accumulated Carrying Current year Current year revaluation depreciation amount additions vested 1 July 2015 & impairment 1 July 2015 & transfers charges from WIP $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Council 2015/16 Operational Assets: Land 72,154 - 72,154 - - Buildings/improvements 186,834 11,368 175,466 21,706 468 Vehicles 4,508 1,877 2,631 1,106 - Furniture, fittings and equipment 18,550 13,644 4,906 1,719 - Puke Ariki book collection 5,524 404 5,120 740 - Restricted assets: Parks and reserves 174,471 - 174,471 707 407 Puke Ariki museum collection 26,673 - 26,673 - 13 Govett-Brewster Len Lye Centre collection 13,073 - 13,073 - - Infrastructural assets: Roading 1,063,929 20,667 1,043,262 17,992 3,322 Laboratory 142 43 99 90 - Solid waste 5,861 227 5,634 5,534 - Stormwater 102,972 3,289 99,683 1,281 704 Flood protection 13,655 226 13,429 19 - Water 122,377 7,691 114,686 2,772 693 Wastewater 206,222 10,463 195,759 3,142 327 Work in progress 37,733 - 37,733 11,491 - New Plymouth Airport runway/services 6,125 536 5,589 448 - Total Council 2,060,803 70,435 1,990,368 68,747 5,934 Group 2015/16 Operational Assets: Land 72,154 - 72,154 - - Buildings/improvements 186,968 11,448 175,520 21,709 468 Vehicles 4,641 1,964 2,677 1,165 - Furniture, fittings and equipment 18,891 13,873 5,018 1,749 - Puke Ariki book collection 5,524 404 5,120 740 - Restricted assets: Parks and reserves 174,471 - 174,471 707 407 Puke Ariki museum collection 26,673 - 26,673 - 13 Govett-Brewster/Len Lye Centre collection 13,073 - 13,073 - - Infrastructural assets: Roading 1,063,929 20,667 1,043,262 17,992 3,322 Laboratory 142 43 99 90 - Solid waste 5,861 227 5,634 5,534 - Stormwater 102,972 3,289 99,683 1,281 704 Flood protection 13,655 226 13,429 19 - Water 122,377 7,691 114,686 2,772 693 Wastewater 206,222 10,463 195,759 3,142 327 Work in progress 37,733 - 37,733 11,491 - New Plymouth Airport runway/services 6,125 536 5,589 448 - Total Group 2,061,411 70,831 1,990,580 68,839 5,934
90 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
Current year Current year Accumulated Transfer Revaluation Cost/ Accumulated Carrying disposals depreciation depreciation non-current surplus/ revaluation depreciation amount disposed/ assets held (deficit) 30 June 2016 & impairment 30 June 2016 revalued for sale 30 June 2016 30 June 2016 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
- - - 1,860 12,800 86,814 - 86,814 (138) 5,889 (17,236) (3,220) (16,405) 189,245 21 189,224 (594) 413 (405) - - 5,020 1,885 3,135 (2,487) 1,303 (2,468) - 75 17,857 12,479 5,378 - 461 - - - 6,264 865 5,399
- - - (200) 11,900 187,285 - 187,285 - - - - - 26,686 - 26,686 - - - - - 13,073 - 13,073
- 10,391 (31,058) (1,660) (14,913) 1,068,670 - 1,068,670 - 25 (68) - (149) 83 - 83 - 197 (424) - (3,287) 8,108 - 8,108 (290) 1,964 (5,253) - 48,988 153,655 - 153,655 - 113 (339) - 229 13,903 - 13,903 (624) 3,878 (11,569) - 25,254 150,472 - 150,472 (542) 5,311 (15,774) - 2,689 211,838 - 211,838 (36,664) - - - - 12,560 - 12,560 - 277 (813) - (399) 6,174 - 6,174 (41,339) 30,222 (85,407) (3,220) 66,782 2,157,707 15,250 2,142,457
- - - 1,860 12,800 86,814 - 86,814 (138) 5,900 (17,236) (3,220) (16,405) 189,382 112 189,270 (602) 441 (405) - - 5,204 2,000 3,204 (2,494) 1,346 (2,474) - 75 18,221 12,745 5,476 - 461 - - - 6,264 865 5,399
- - - (200) 11,900 187,285 - 187,285 - - - - - 26,686 - 26,686 - - - - - 13,073 - 13,073
- 10,391 (31,058) (1,660) (14,913) 1,068,670 - 1,068,670 - 25 (68) - (149) 83 - 83 - 197 (424) - (3,287) 8,108 - 8,108 (290) 1,964 (5,253) - 48,988 153,655 - 153,655 - 113 (339) - 229 13,903 - 13,903 (624) 3,878 (11,569) - 25,254 150,472 - 150,472 (542) 5,311 (15,774) - 2,689 211,838 - 211,838 (36,664) - - - - 12,560 - 12,560 - 277 (813) - (399) 6,174 - 6,174 (41,354) 30,304 (85,413) (3,220) 66,782 2,158,392 15,722 2,142,670
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 91 Notes to the Financial Statements
19. Property, plant and equipment (continued) Cost/ Accumulated Carrying Current year Current year revaluation depreciation amount additions vested 1 July 2014 & impairment 1 July 2014 & transfers charges from WIP $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Council 2014/15 Operational Assets: Land 72,215 - 72,215 208 - Buildings/improvements 179,258 5,692 173,566 5,932 - Vehicles 4,720 1,756 2,964 544 - Furniture, fittings and equipment 16,700 12,015 4,685 1,883 - Puke Ariki book collection 5,101 - 5,101 673 15 Restricted assets: Parks and reserves 174,349 - 174,349 122 - Puke Ariki museum collection 26,673 - 26,673 - - Govett-Brewster Len Lye Centre collection 13,028 - 13,028 45 - Infrastructural assets: Roading 1,053,580 10,319 1,043,261 8,254 2,840 Laboratory 116 21 95 26 - Solid waste 7,686 166 7,520 118 - Stormwater 101,547 1,645 99,902 798 627 Flood protection 13,612 113 13,499 43 - Water 120,929 3,841 117,088 1,101 346 Wastewater 199,463 5,210 194,253 6,475 283 Work in progress 25,278 - 25,278 37,056 - New Plymouth Airport runway/services 6,125 268 5,857 1 - Total Council 2,020,380 41,046 1,979,334 63,279 4,111 Group 2014/15 Operational Assets: Land 72,215 - 72,215 208 - Buildings/improvements 179,388 5,761 173,627 5,935 - Vehicles 4,853 1,816 3,037 544 - Furniture, fittings and equipment 17,024 12,219 4,805 1,914 - Puke Ariki book collection 5,101 - 5,101 673 15 Tasmanian Land Company Limited 211,395 10,302 201,093 1,720 - Restricted assets: Parks and reserves 174,349 - 174,349 122 - Puke Ariki museum collection 26,673 - 26,673 - - Govett-Brewster/Len Lye Centre collection 13,028 - 13,028 45 - Infrastructural assets: Roading 1,053,580 10,319 1,043,261 8,254 2,840 Laboratory 116 21 95 26 - Solid waste 7,686 166 7,520 118 - Stormwater 101,547 1,645 99,902 798 627 Flood protection 13,612 113 13,499 43 - Water 120,929 3,841 117,088 1,101 346 Wastewater 199,463 5,210 194,253 6,475 283 Work in progress 25,278 - 25,278 37,056 - New Plymouth Airport runway/services 6,125 268 5,857 1 - Total Group 2,232,362 51,681 2,180,681 65,033 4,111
92 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
Current year Current year Accumulated Transfer Revaluation Cost/ Accumulated Carrying disposals depreciation depreciation non-current surplus/ revaluation depreciation amount disposed assets held (deficit) 30 June 2015 & impairment 30 June 2015 for sale 30 June 2015 30 June 2015 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
- - - (269) - 72,154 - 72,154 (516) 5,676 - 217 1,943 186,834 11,368 175,466 (756) 509 (388) - - 4,508 1,877 2,631 (33) 1,657 (28) - - 18,550 13,644 4,906 (71) 476 (71) - (193) 5,524 404 5,120 ------174,471 - 174,471 - - - - - 26,673 - 26,673 - - - - - 13,073 - 13,073 - - - (745) 10,348 - - - 1,063,929 20,667 1,043,262 - 22 - - - 142 43 99 - 61 - - (1,943) 5,861 227 5,634 - 1,644 - - - 102,972 3,289 99,683 - 113 - - - 13,655 226 13,429 - 3,849 - - - 122,377 7,691 114,686 - 5,252 - - - 206,222 10,463 195,759 (24,601) - - - - 37,733 - 37,733 - 268 - - - 6,125 536 5,589 (26,722) 29,875 (487) (52) (193) 2,060,803 70,435 1,990,368
- - - (269) - 72,154 - 72,154 (516) 5,686 - 217 1,943 186,968 11,448 175,520 (756) 536 (388) - - 4,641 1,964 2,677 (49) 1,696 (44) - - 18,891 13,873 5,018 (71) 476 (71) - (193) 5,524 404 5,120 (46) 1,856 - (196,599) (4,312) ------174,471 - 174,471 - - - - - 26,673 - 26,673 - - - - - 13,073 - 13,073 - - - (745) 10,348 - - - 1,063,929 20,667 1,043,262 - 22 - - - 142 43 99 - 61 - - (1,943) 5,861 227 5,634 - 1,644 - - - 102,972 3,289 99,683 - 113 - - - 13,655 226 13,429 - 3,849 - - - 122,377 7,691 114,686 - 5,252 - - - 206,222 10,463 195,759 (24,601) - - - - 37,733 - 37,733 - 268 - - - 6,125 536 5,589 (26,784) 31,807 (503) (196,651) (4,505) 2,061,411 70,831 1,990,580
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 93 Notes to the Financial Statements
19. Property, plant and equipment (continued)
All property, plant and equipment except for operational motor vehicles, furniture, fittings and equipment and work-in- progress are re-valued at fair value by reference to their depreciated replacement cost or market value on an asset class basis at least every three years. The carrying values of revalued assets are assessed annually to ensure they do not differ materially from the assets’ fair values. The net revaluation results are shown in other comprehensive revenue and expense and are accumulated to an asset revaluation reserve in equity for that class of asset. If a revaluation results in a decrease, and the revaluation reserve is insufficient, the decrease would be recognised in the surplus or deficit in the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense. Any subsequent increase on revaluation that reverses a previous decrease in value recognised in the surplus or deficit will be recognised first in the surplus or deficit up to the previously expensed, and then recognised in other comprehensive revenue and expense. Any accumulated depreciation at the date of the revaluation is eliminated against the gross carrying value of the asset so that the gross carrying amount after revaluation equals the revalued amount.
Additions and subsequent costs are recognised when it is probably that the future economic benefits or service potential associated with the item will flow to the Council and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. Where an asset is acquired at no cost, or for a nominal cost, it is recognised at fair value as at the date of acquisition. Gains and losses on disposals are reported net in the surplus or deficit. When revalued assets are sold, the amounts included in asset revaluation reserves in respect of those assets, are transferred to retained earnings.
All valuers noted below are independent valuers.
Operational assets Operational assets include land, buildings (including any improvements), vehicles, furniture, fittings and equipment and library books.
Land was revalued at fair value as at 30 June 2016 by Ian Baker (FNZIV, FPINZ) Registered Valuer from Telfer Young Limited.
Buildings (including improvements) encompasses a range of areas. All were revalued at fair value as at 30 June 2016 as follows:
Asset Valuer details Council owned buildings Ian Baker (FNZIV, FPINZ) Registered Valuer from Telfer Young Limited Parks structures Nick Moon (HNC (UK) Plant Engineering and NZCE Power and Plant ) from Calibre Consulting Parks playground equipment Tina Dyer (National Diploma in Horticulture, registered International Playground Inspector) from Park Central Aquatic Centre/pools Marvin Clough (MPINZ, APPI) from BECA New Plymouth Airport buildings Ian Baker (FNZIV, FPINZ) Registered Valuer from Telfer Young Limited
Vehicles and furniture, fittings and equipment are recognised at cost less accumulated depreciation and any accumulated impairment losses except for Airport plant and equipment which was revalued 30 June 2016 by Ian Baker (FNZIV, FPINZ) Registered Valuer from Telfer Young Limited.
The Puke Ariki book collection was revalued at depreciated replacement cost as at 30 June 2014 by Dr Robin Watt (MA (Hons) PH.D) from R J Watt and Associates.
Operational assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis, except for land which is not depreciated, and PukeAriki heritage book collection as Council’s policy is to maintain in its current state. The useful lives of depreciated asset classes are as follows:
Asset class Estimated useful lives Buildings/improvements 20 to 100 years Vehicles 3 to 20 years Furniture, fittings and equipment 3 to 10 years PukeAriki book collection (general in-use) 2 to 15 years
94 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
Restricted assets Restricted assets includes parks and reserves land which can only be disposed of after following a rigorous legal and public consultation process.
Parks and reserve assets were revalued at fair value as at 30 June 2016 by Ian Baker (FNZIV, FPINZ) Registered Valuer from Telfer Young Limited.
The Puke Ariki museum collection was revalued at depreciated replacement cost as at 30 June 2014 by Dr Robin Watt (MA (Hons) PH.D) from R J Watt and Associates.
The Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre collection was revalued at fair value as at 30 June 2014 by Brian Wood from R J Watt and Associates.
Restricted assets are not depreciated. Parks and reserves is land which is not depreciated. The museum and art gallery collections are heritage assets and are not depreciated as it is Council policy to maintain the collections in their current state.
Infrastructural assets Infrastructural assets are the fixed utility systems and includes all items that are required for the network to function. For example roads, water or wastewater systems. All infrastructure assets (except for work in progress) were revalued at depreciated replacement cost as at 30 June 2016. Valuations on each asset class were undertaken as follows:
Asset Valuer details Roading, reticulation, parks (other assets) In-house and peer reviewed by Robert Berghuis (APINZ) from BECA and solid waste (other assets) Water, wastewater, stormwater plant and Roger Khoo (MPINZ, AAPI) from BECA equipment (including laboratory) Solid waste plant and equipment Marvin Clough (MPINZ, APPI) from BECA Flood protection plant and equipment Roger Khoo (MPINZ, AAPI) from BECA New Plymouth Airport runway/services Ian Baker (FNZIV, FPINZ) Registered Valuer from Telfer Young Limited.
A number of estimates and assumptions must be made when valuing infrastructural assets and determining the remaining useful life over which the assets will be depreciated. These estimates can be impacted by the local conditions, for example weather patterns and traffic growth. If useful lives do not reflect the actual consumption of the benefits of the asset, the Council could be over-estimating the annual depreciation charge recognised as an expense in the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expenses. In this instance the estimates and assumptions made include:
• Roads include derived values for land not held on title (road reserve). The average value of the road reserve is the current average land value calculated for each government roll number. The following factors have been applied:
Uniformed roads 80% of average value
Formed roads (urban) 70% of average value
Formed roads (rural) 50% of average value
• Remaining useful lives have been determined with reference to the NZ Infrastructural Asset Valuation and Depreciation Guidelines published by the National Asset Management Steering Group and have been adjusted to local conditions based on past experience. • All assets are valued and depreciated on a straight-line basis. • Only existing utilities have been included. • Assets are assumed to have zero residual value at the end of their effective useful lives. • Information on the surface area, specific surface type and surfacing date was used as defined in the RAMM treatment length table at the time of valuation.
Work in progress is recognised at cost less impairment losses and is not depreciated.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 95 Notes to the Financial Statements
19. Property, plant and equipment (continued)
Infrastructural assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis. The useful lives are as follows:
Asset class Estimated useful lives Roading 5 to 100 years Laboratory 8 to 30 years Solid Waste 35 to 100 years Stormwater 50 to 140 years Flood Protection 50 to 200 years Water 10 to 120 years Wastewater 10 to 140 years New Plymouth Airport runway/services 5 to 100 years
Infrastructural assets - further disclosures Additions Closing Assets Assets Estimated book value constructed transferred replacement by the to the cost Council Council $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Infrastructural assets Water treatment plant and facilities 108,816 2,512 693 213,128 Other water assets 40,995 259 - 70,611 Wastewater treatment plant and facilities 137,374 2,748 326 256,409 Other wastewater assets 74,465 394 1 129,310 Stormwater damage 153,655 1,281 704 234,535 Flood protection 13,903 19 - 18,608 Roading 1,068,670 17,992 3,322 1,360,718
Significant capital projects Total Total Variance Comments Budget Expenditure $’000 $’000 $’000 New Cemetery site development 1,602 1,554 48 Practical completion for civil/building works. Toilet fit out and other minor works to be completed. Wai Taatari project 10,838 1,575 9,263 These are multi year projects. The Area Q (Bell Block) wastewater 3,157 258 2,899 total expenditure over the life of the services project projects is expected to be on budget.
96 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
20. Non-current assets held for sale Non-current assets held for sale as at 30 June 2016 include three buildings no longer required for Council purposes.
Non-current assets held for sale as at 30 June 2015 included Tasmanian Land Company Limited (sold on 31 March 2016), houses associated with the Vickers to City roading project and various parcels of land which were surplus to requirements, all of which were sold during 2015/16.
Properties no longer required in the Council’s operations and therefore intended for sale have been measured at the lower of carrying amount or fair value less selling costs. These are tested for impairment on an annual basis and any write-downs are recognised in the surplus or deficit. Non-current assets held for sale are not depreciated or amortised.
Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Land - 1,868 - 1,868 Buildings 1,410 116 1,410 116 Tasmanian Land Company Limited - 165,391 - 242,772 Total non-current assets held for sale 1,410 167,375 1,410 244,756
21. Insurance cover Cover Sum insured $’000 Total value of all assets covered by insurance contracts Material damage and forestry 492,007 Total value of all assets covered by financial risk sharing LAPP 703,763 arrangements Total value of all assets that are self-insured Self-insurance 1,447
22. Trade and other payables Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Trade payables 11,036 13,106 13,631 20,923 Deposits and bonds 908 432 908 432 Accrued interest 430 598 430 598 Contract retentions 1,188 1,410 1,188 1,410 Other payables 7 719 7 719 Crown interests in Airport 381 381 381 381 Taranaki Investment Management Limited 396 310 - - Total trade and other payables 14,346 16,956 16,545 24,463
Trade and other payables are non-interest bearing and are normally settled on 30 day terms. Therefore, the carrying value of trade and other payables approximates their fair value. All amounts in trade and other payables are assessed as exchange as these balances arose from transactions carried out on normal business terms.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 97 Notes to the Financial Statements
23. Public debt and other loans Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Current: Public debt and other loans 39,000 47,650 39,000 47,650 Revolving credit facility - Tasmanian Land Company Limited - - - 71,906 Equipment finance loans - Tasmanian Land Company - - - 952 Limited 39,000 47,650 39,000 120,508 Non-current: Public debt and other loans 71,000 66,000 71,000 66,000 Total public debt and other loans 110,000 113,650 110,000 186,508 Represented by: Debenture stock 61,000 57,650 Local Government Funding Authority Borrowings 49,000 56,000 110,000 113,650
All loans and borrowings are initially recognised at cost, being the fair value of the consideration received less directly attributable transaction costs. After initial recognition, interest bearing loans and borrowings are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.
Interest on public debt and loans, bank and facility fees and transaction costs are recognised in the surplus or deficit over the period of the debt using the effective interest method.
Interest rates range from 3.0% to 5.2% (2015: 3.7% to 6.6%) - weighted average rate of 4.8% (2015: 5.3%).
All the Council’s loans are secured under the terms of the Debenture Trust Deed between the Council and Covenant Trustee Services Ltd as Trustee (formerly Foundation Corporate Trust). Security is by a charge over the Council’s ability to levy rates in favour of the Trustee. Pursuant to the Debenture Trust Deed, the Council has issued to its bankers security certificates totalling $6.22 billion (2015: $5.01 billion) to secure the various bank loan facilities, bank overdraft and guarantees issued on behalf of the Council and other general banking facilities.
In 2015, the revolving credit facility for Tasmanian Land Company Limited (Rabobank loan) was secured by a registered charge over the property and a registered equitable mortgage over the assets of Tasmanian Land Company Limited.
24. Special funds/reserves Reserves are a component of public equity generally representing a particular use to which various parts of public equity have been assigned. Reserves may be legally restricted or created by the Council.
Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Opening balances 1 July 80,356 80,297 80,412 80,587 Deposits to reserves 28,507 29,924 28,507 29,924 Withdrawals from reserves (23,613) (29,865) (23,613) (30,099) Closing balances 30 June 85,250 80,356 85,306 80,412
98 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
Represented by: Operating reserve funds These are set aside to fund short-term operational matters such as holding short-term surpluses arising from Water Supply and Wastewater treatment operations and some internal services.
Council and Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Opening balance 1 July 8,940 7,810 Deposits to reserves 925 1,757 Withdrawals from reserves (2,789) (627) Closing balance 30 June 7,076 8,940
Smoothing reserve funds These fund significant costs incurred generally every three years.An annual general charge is made to level out the impacts of these costs on rates. These include asset revaluations, Long-Term Plan audit fee, Council elections and orthophotography. These funds are applied to infrastructural services, some internal services and Civic and Democracy services.
Council and Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Opening balance 1 July 1,849 1,678 Deposits to reserves 656 227 Withdrawals from reserves (205) (56) Closing balance 30 June 2,300 1,849
Restricted reserves, Trust and Bequest funds These funds are subject to specific conditions accepted as binding by the Council, such as bequests or operations in trust under specific Acts, and which may not be revised by the Council without reference to the courts or third party. Transfers from these reserves may be made only for certain specified purposes, or when specified conditions are met. These include the Waitara Harbour Trust, heritage funds, proceeds from sale of Junction Road leases, Ngamotu Masonic Lodge Bursary Fund and certain bequest funds: Monica Brewster, Molly Morpeth Canaday and J T Gibson. These funds are applied to infrastructural asset activities, Puke Ariki and Len Lye Centre/Govett-Brewster Art Gallery.
Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Opening balance 1 July 11,712 10,407 11,768 10,697 Deposits to reserves 1,178 1,309 1,178 1,309 Withdrawals from reserves (925) (4) (925) (238) Closing balance 30 June 11,965 11,712 12,021 11,768
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 99 Notes to the Financial Statements
24. Special funds/reserves (continued)
Development funds These arise from Development and Financial contributions levied by the Council for capital works and are intended to contribute to the growth related capital expenditure in the infrastructural asset activities of Roads, Water Supply, Wastewater, Stormwater, Flood Protection, Parks, Recreation and Events, PukeAriki and Govett-Brewster Art Gallery/Len Lye Centre. These reserves also include the Solid Waste development fund which was set up for capital, renewal and emergency maintenance works associated with the District’s solid waste disposal systems.
Council and Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Opening balance 1 July 20,315 21,136 Deposits to reserves 5,955 9,476 Withdrawals from reserves (4,130) (10,297) Closing balance 30 June 22,140 20,315
Renewal and disaster funds The Council sets aside funding to meet the renewal of its infrastructural and operating assets to ensure the continued ability to provide services. In addition, the Council maintains a disaster fund as part of its insurance strategies. The renewal funds are applied to all activities throughout Council.
Council and Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Opening balance 1 July 37,540 39,266 Deposits to reserves 19,793 17,155 Withdrawals from reserves (15,564) (18,881) Closing balance 30 June 41,769 37,540
25. Retained earnings Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Opening balance at 1 July 1,497,700 1,452,783 1,398,691 1,382,776 Surplus/(deficit) after taxation 18,325 44,976 35,601 11,017 (Increase)/decrease in special funds/reserves (4,894) (59) (4,894) 175 (Increase)/decrease due to currency fluctuation - - (32,082) 2,391 Revaluation surplus on assets sold transferred to retained - - 114,277 - earnings Equity adjustment - - (1,748) - (Increase)/decrease in minority interests - - - 1,940 Acquisition of minority interests - - - (2,973) Share issue - - - 3,365 Closing balance 30 June 1,511,131 1,497,700 1,509,845 1,398,691
100 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
26. Asset revaluation reserve Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000
Operational land Opening balance 1 July 30,798 30,798 30,798 30,798 Additions/transfers 7,071 - 7,071 - Revaluation/(impairment) 5,722 - 5,722 - Closing balance 30 June 43,591 30,798 43,591 30,798
Operational buildings Opening balance 1 July 29,704 29,704 29,704 29,704 Revaluation/(impairment) 707 - 707 - Closing balance 30 June 30,411 29,704 30,411 29,704
Operational library Opening balance 1 July (91) 6 (91) 6 Revaluation/(impairment) - (97) - (97) Closing balance 30 June (91) (91) (91) (91)
Restricted land Opening balance 1 July 55,309 55,309 55,309 55,309 Revaluation/(impairment) 11,900 - 11,900 - Closing balance 30 June 67,209 55,309 67,209 55,309
Restricted art/museum Opening balance 1 July 1,940 2,036 1,940 2,036 Revaluation/(impairment) - (96) - (96) Closing balance 30 June 1,940 1,940 1,940 1,940
Infrastructure Opening balance 1 July 480,354 480,354 480,354 480,354 Revaluation/(impairment) 122,298 - 122,298 - Closing balance 30 June 602,652 480,354 602,652 480,354
Tasmanian Land Company Limited Opening balance 1 July - - 114,277 84,739 Foreign currency translation - - (4,138) 5,034 Revaluation/(impairment) - - (110,139) 24,504 Closing balance 30 June - - - 114,277 Total asset revaluation reserve 745,712 598,014 745,712 712,291
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 101 Notes to the Financial Statements
27. Derivatives The Council uses interest rate swaps to mitigate its risk associated with interest rate fluctuations.These derivatives are initially recognised at fair value on the date the contract is entered into, and subsequently remeasured to fair value each quarter. Derivatives are carried as assets when their fair value is positive and as liabilities when their fair value is negative. Derivatives that are settled within 12 months are treated as current.
Swaps are entered into with the objective of reducing the risk of rising interest rates. Any gains or losses arising from the changes in fair value of derivatives are recognised in the surplus or deficit.The net difference paid or received on the interest rate swaps is recognised as part of the total finance revenue or finance costs over the period of the contract.The Council does not hold or issue derivative financial instruments for trading purposes.
The table below summarises the movements in interest rate swaps and the classification between current and non- current assets and liabilities.
Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Balance as at 1 July (4,094) 204 (4,094) 204 Net (loss)/gain on derivatives (4,681) (4,298) (4,681) (4,298) Balance as at 30 June (8,775) (4,094) (8,775) (4,094) Represented by: Current assets - 42 - 42 Non-current assets 85 910 85 910 Current liabilities (277) (24) (277) (24) Non-current liabilities (8,583) (5,022) (8,583) (5,022) Total net interest rate swap derivatives (8,775) (4,094) (8,775) (4,094)
The fair values of interest rate swaps are measured against the prevailing market conditions at balance date. The Council’s interest rate swaps have been independently valued using Hedgebook software, designed to capture, value and report interest rate swaps. Hedgebook uses daily rate feeds of floating rate references such as BKBM and BBSW from industry benchmark sources.
The notional principal amounts of the outstanding interest rate swap contracts were $127m (2015: $127m).
At 30 June 2016 the fixed interest rates of the interest rate swaps very from 3.30% to 5.24% (2015: 3.98% to 6.63%).
102 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
28. Statement of Cash Flows Reconciliation Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Surplus/(deficit) after taxation 18,325 44,976 35,601 11,017 Non-cash items: Depreciation/amortisation 31,117 30,875 32,809 32,731 Gain/(loss) on disposal of business operations - - (54,544) - Assets vested in council (5,934) (4,111) (5,934) (4,111) Impairment 1,510 - 1,510 - Loss on sale of assets 1,005 - 998 - Net loss/(gain) on derivatives 4,680 - 4,680 - Net (gain)/loss on forestry assets (682) - (682) - Net (gain)/loss on carbon credits (801) - (801) - Bad debts 99 - 99 - Loss/(gain) on sales included in investing activities (23,572) (31,480) (6,056) - 7,422 (4,716) (27,921) 28,620 Add/(less) Movement in other working capital items: Change in trade and other receivables 3,488 (5,058) 10,177 (4,920) Change in trade and other payables (2,610) 1,514 (6,465) 2,375 Change in inventory 23 (18) 64 (17) Change in livestock (Tasmanian Land Company Ltd) - - - 1,688 Change in prepayments (801) - (805) - Change in other provision 2,226 - 2,226 - Change in revenue in advance 197 - 212 - Change in taxation 342 (55) 13,045 (83) Other: Movement in employee entitlements (current) (85) - (85) - Movement in employee entitlements (non-current) (651) (99) (193) (99) 2,129 (3,716) 18,176 (1,056) Net cash flow from operating activities 27,876 36,544 25,856 38,581
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 103 Notes to the Financial Statements
29. Financial instruments Financial instrument categories For financial reporting purposes, the Council and Group designates its financial instruments into the following categories:
Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Financial assets Loans and receivables: Cash and cash equivalents 9,492 16,035 227,862 17,091 Trade and other receivables 14,309 17,797 15,527 25,704 Term deposits 37,071 30,810 37,071 30,810 New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture Loan 1,574 1,292 1,574 1,292 Mortgages/other loans 1,241 989 1,241 989 63,687 66,923 283,275 75,886 Financial assets at fair value through surplus or deficit designated upon initial recognition: Derivative financial assets 85 952 85 952 Bonds, shares and other investments (PIF) 270,207 253,275 81,680 87,884 270,292 254,227 81,765 88,836 Assets held to maturity: Bonds 850 850 850 850 850 850 850 850 Available for sale: Local authority stock 996 996 996 996 NZ LGFA 504 504 504 504 1,500 1,500 1,500 1,500 Total financial assets 336,329 323,500 367,390 167,072 Financial liabilities Financial liabilities at fair value through surplus or deficit designated upon initial recognition: Derivative financial liabilities 8,860 5,046 8,860 5,046 8,860 5,046 8,860 5,046 Financial liabilities at amortised cost: Trade and other payables 14,346 17,675 16,545 25,182 Borrowings: Debenture stock 61,000 57,650 61,000 57,650 Local Government Funding Authority Borrowings 49,000 56,000 49,000 56,000 Revolving credit facility - Tasmanian Land Company Ltd - - - 71,906 Equipment finance loans - Tasmanian Land Company Ltd - - - 952 124,346 131,325 126,545 211,690 Total financial liabilities 133,206 136,371 135,405 216,736
104 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
Fair values The Council and Group’s assets and liabilities measured at fair value are categorised into one of the three levels as follows: Level one. The fair value is determined using unadjusted quoted prices from an active market for identical assets and liabilities. A market is regarded as active if quoted prices are readily and regularly available from an exchange, a dealer, a broker, an industry group, a pricing service or a regulatory agency, and those prices represent actual and regularly occurring market transactions on an arm’s length basis. Level two. The fair value is derived from inputs other than quoted prices included within level one that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly (i.e. as prices) or indirectly (i.e. derived from prices). Level three. The fair value is derived from inputs that are not based on observable market data.
Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Financial assets Level one - Financial assets: PIF investments 43,718 37,888 43,718 37,888 43,718 37,888 43,718 37,888 Level two: NZ LGFA 504 504 504 504 PIF investments 12,088 8,319 7,356 8,319 Derivatives 85 952 85 952 12,677 9,775 7,945 9,775 Level three: PIF investments 214,401 207,068 32,211 41,677 214,401 207,068 32,211 41,677 Total financial assets 270,796 254,731 83,874 89,340 Total PIF investments 270,207 253,275 83,285 87,884 Financial liabilities Level two - Financial assets: Derivatives 8,860 5,046 8,860 5,046 Total financial liabilities 8,860 5,046 8,860 5,046
There were no transfers between the different levels.
Level three reconciliation Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Opening balance 207,068 175,749 41,677 44,214 Gains/(losses) recognised in surplus/(deficit) 4,714 24,942 (12,085) (5,156) Purchases 6,518 99,799 6,518 6,518 Sales (9,782) (94,927) (9,782) (9,782) Return of capital 5,883 1,505 5,883 5,883 Closing balance 214,401 207,068 32,211 41,677
Refer to Note 13 for the valuation methodology of NZ LFGA, Note 15 for the valuation methodology of the PIF, and Note 27 for the valuation methodology of derivatives.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 105 Notes to the Financial Statements
29. Financial instruments (continued) Risk management The Council and Group’s broad financial philosophy is based on compliance with the obligations imposed on local authorities in terms of the Local Government Act 2002.
The Council’s overriding obligation is to manage its affairs prudently and in the interest of its community.
Accordingly the Council’s philosophy on the conduct of its financial activities is to ensure the risks associated with such activities are properly identified, quantified and managed to ensure it meets the above obligations and there is minimal negative impact on the Council arising from such risks.
Market risk Price risk Price risk is the risk that fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate as a result of changes in market prices. The Council is exposed to equity securities price risk on its investments, which are classified as financial assets at fair value through surplus or deficit. This price risk arises due to market movements in listed securities. This price risk is managed by diversification of the Council’s investment portfolio in accordance with its Treasury Management Policy and advice from TIML.
Currency risk Currency risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in foreign exchange rates. The Council is exposed to currency risk on its investment portfolio which includes investments denominated in a number of foreign currencies. This currency risk is managed by diversification of the Council’s investment portfolio in accordance with its Treasury Management Policy and advice from TIML.
Fair value interest rate risk Fair value interest rate risk is the risk that the value of a financial instrument will fluctuate due to changes in market interest rates. Borrowings and investments issued at fixed interest rates of interest expose the Council to fair value interest rate risk. This risk is managed within the framework of the Treasury Management Policy. Interest rate swaps are used to hedge the Council’s fair value interest rate risk.
Cash flow interest rate risk Cashflow interest rate risk is the risk that the cash flows from a financial instrument will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. Borrowing and investments issued at variable interest rates expose the Council and Group to cash flow interest rate risk. To manage this risk the Council at times borrows at floating rates and swaps them into fixed rates using interest rate swaps.
Commodity price risk (TLC) The Group’s exposure to commodity price risk is primarily with international milk commodity prices and the United States manufacturing beef prices. Commodity price risk is minimised by forward contracts taken out by the milk and meat processors to which the Group sells. Due to the nature of the international commodity markets most sales by the processors take place at spot prices. This risk is with our customers, not directly with the Group.
Credit risk Credit risk is the risk that a third party will default on its obligations to the Council, causing the Council to incur a loss.
Treasury investments Due to the timing of its cash inflows and outflows, the Council invests surplus cash into term deposits with registered banks. In addition, the Council invests special funds and reserves in term deposits, other local authority stock and other interest bearing securities. The Council’s Treasury Management Policy limits the amount of credit exposure to any one financial institution or organisation. Investments in other local authorities are secured by charges over rates. Other than the local authorities, the Council only invests with entities that have a Standard and Poors rating of at least AA- for short- term and A+ for long-term investments with the exception of TSB Bank (BBB+).
106 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
The Council is exposed to credit risk as a guarantor of all LGFA’s borrowings. Information about this exposure is explained in Note 36 Contingencies.
The Council has no collateral or other credit enhancements for financial instruments that give rise to credit risk.
PIF investments The PIF invests in a variety of investments; equities, bonds and private equity funds.
This credit risk is managed by diversification of the investment portfolio in accordance with advice fromTIML and by limits set on individual investments by TIML in any one financial institution or organisation.
Maximum exposure to credit risk The carrying amount of financial assets best represents their maximum exposure to credit risk.
Credit quality of financial assets The credit quality of financial assets that are neither past due nor impaired can be assessed by reference to Standard & Poors credit ratings (if available) or to historical information about counterparty default rates.
As at 30 June 2016 Council held cash and term deposits totalling $4.2m (2015: $2.5m) at counterparties with a credit rating of BBB+ (Group: $4.2m (2015: $2.0m)). All other cash at bank and term deposits totalling $42.4m (2015: $44.3m) were held at counterparties with a credit rating of AA- or higher (Group $43.0m (2015: $45.9m)).
Trade and other receivables mainly arise from the Council’s statutory functions therefore there are no procedures in place to monitor or report the credit quality of debtors and other receivables with reference to internal or external credit ratings. The Council has no significant concentrations of credit risk in relation to debtors and other receivables as it has a large number of customers, mainly ratepayers, and the Council has power under the LG(R)A to recover outstanding debts from ratepayers.
PIF investments are spread over a large number of financial institutions, many of which are domiciled overseas. While a number of these may have Standard & Poors, or similar ratings, no attempt is made to record or monitor these. Nor are their ratings necessarily used as criteria when making such investments.
Liquidity risk Liquidity risk is the risk that the Council will encounter difficulty raising liquid funds to meet commitments as they fall due. The Council aims to maintain flexibility in funding by keeping credit lines available. In meeting its liquidity requirements, the Council maintains a target level of investments that must mature within the next 12 months. The Council manages its borrowings in accordance with its funding and financial policies, which include a Liability Management Policy. These policies have been adopted as part of the Council’s LTP. The Council has on call facilities with two separate banks totalling $32m (2015: $32m). There are no restrictions on the use of these facilities. At balance date no amount had been drawn down on these facilities (2015: nil).
The Council is exposed to liquidity risk as a guarantor of all of LGFA’s borrowings. This guarantee becomes callable in the event of the LGFA failing to pay its borrowings when they fall due. Information about this exposure is explained in Note 36 Contingencies.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 107 Notes to the Financial Statements
29. Financial instruments (continued) The table below analyses the Council and Group’s financial liabilities into relevant maturity groupings based on the remaining period at balance date to the contractual maturity date. Future interest payments on floating rate debt are based on the floating rate at balance date. The amounts disclosed are the contractual undiscounted cash flows and include interest payments.
Carrying Contractual Less than 1-5 years More than amount cash flows 1 year 5 years $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Council 2016 Trade and other payables 14,346 14,346 14,346 - - Public debt and other loans 110,000 112,861 39,637 52,599 20,625 Derivatives 8,860 8,860 277 3,378 5,205 Total Council 2016 133,206 136,067 54,260 55,977 25,830 Group 2016 Trade and other payables 16,545 16,545 16,545 - - Public debt and other loans 110,000 112,861 39,637 52,599 20,625 Derivatives 8,860 8,860 277 3,378 5,205 Total Group 2016 135,405 138,266 56,459 55,977 25,830 Council 2015 Trade and other payables 23,939 23,939 23,939 - - Public debt and other loans 113,650 128,496 51,687 44,341 32,468 Derivatives 5,046 5,046 24 2,738 2,284 Total Council 2015 142,635 157,481 75,650 47,079 34,752 Group 2015 Trade and other payables 31,446 31,446 31,446 - - Bank facilities 71,906 71,906 71,906 - - Public debt and other loans 114,602 128,995 52,186 44,341 32,468 Derivatives 5,046 5,046 24 2,738 2,284 Total Group 2015 223,000 237,393 155,562 47,079 34,752
108 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
Sensitivity risk The tables below illustrate the potential surplus/deficit and equity impact for reasonable possible market movements, with other variables held constant, based on the Council and Group’s financial instrument exposures at balance date. Interest rate risk
-100bps +100bps Surplus/ Other Surplus/ Other (deficit) equity (deficit) equity $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Council 2016 Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents (95) - 95 - Term deposits (371) - 371 - Derivatives 413 - (220) - Financial liabilities: Derivatives (13,494) - (4,536) - Total interest rate sensitivity (13,547) - (4,290) - Council 2015 Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents (160) - 160 - Term deposits (308) - 308 - Derivatives 804 - 1,017 - Financial liabilities: Derivatives (9,195) - (1,097) - Total interest rate sensitivity (8,859) - 388 -
Group 2016 Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents (2,279) - 2,279 - Term deposits (371) - 371 - Derivatives 804 - 1,017 - Financial liabilities: Derivatives (13,494) - (4,536) - Total interest rate sensitivity (15,340) - (869) - Group 2015 Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents (171) - 171 - Term deposits (308) - 308 - Derivatives 804 - 1,017 - Financial liabilities: Derivatives (9,195) - (1,097) - Tasmanian Land Company Limited 679 679 (679) (679) Total interest rate sensitivity (8,191) 679 (280) (679)
The interest rate sensitivity above is based on a reasonable possible movement in interest rates, with all other variables held constant, measured as a basis points (bps) movement. For example, a decrease in 100 bps is equivalent to a decrease in interest rates of 1%.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 109 Notes to the Financial Statements
29. Financial instruments (continued) Foreign exchange and equity price risk
-100bps +100bps Surplus/ Other Surplus/ Other (deficit) equity (deficit) equity $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Council 2016 Financial assets foreign exchange risk: PIF Investments 26,201 - (21,246) - Financial assets equity price risk: PIF Investments (3,200) - 3,200 - Total foreign exchange and equity price risk sensitivity 23,001 - (18,046) - Council 2015 Financial assets foreign exchange risk: PIF Investments 29,388 - 14,369 - Financial assets equity price risk: PIF Investments (3,487) - 3,487 - Total foreign exchange and equity price risk sensitivity 25,901 - 17,856 - Group 2016 Financial assets foreign exchange risk: PIF Investments 26,201 - (21,246) - Financial assets equity price risk: PIF Investments (3,200) - 3,200 - Total foreign exchange and equity price risk sensitivity 23,001 - (18,046) - Group 2015 Financial assets foreign exchange risk: PIF Investments 29,388 - 14,369 - Tasmanian Land Company Limited 435 17,691 (356) 14,474 Financial assets equity price risk: PIF Investments (3,487) - 3,487 - Total foreign exchange and equity price risk sensitivity 26,336 17,691 17,500 14,474
The foreign exchange sensitivity is based on a reasonable possible movement in foreign exchange rates, with all other variables held constant, measured as a percentage movement in the foreign exchange rate.
The sensitivity for listed shares has been calculated based on movement in the quoted bid share price at year end for the listed shares.
30. Capital management The Council’s capital is its equity (or ratepayers’ funds), which comprise accumulated funds and reserves. Equity is represented by net assets.
The LGA requires the Council to mange its revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, investments and general financial dealings prudently and in a manner that promotes the current and future interest of the community. Ratepayers’ funds are largely managed as a by-product of managing revenues, expenses, assets, liabilities, investments and other financial dealings.
The objective of managing these items is to achieve intergenerational equity, which is a principle promoted in the LGA and applied by the Council. Intergenerational equity requires today’s ratepayers to meet the costs of utilising the Council’s assets and not expecting them to meet the full cost of long-term assets that will benefit ratepayers in future generations. Additionally, the Council has in place asset management plans for major classes of assets detailing renewal and maintenance programmes, to ensure that ratepayers in future generations are not required to meet the costs of deferred renewals and maintenance.
110 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
The LGA requires the Council to make adequate and effective provision in its LTP and in its Annual Plan (where applicable) to meet the expenditure needs identified in those plans.The LGA also sets out the factors that the Council is required to consider when determining the most appropriate sources of funding for each of its activities. The sources and levels of funding are set out in the funding and financial policies in the Council’s LTP.
Refer to Note 24 for further information on the Council’s special funds/reserves.
31. Major budget variations Explanations for major budget variances from the Council budget figures in the TPL are as follows.
Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expense 2015/16 2015/16 Variance Comments Actual Budget $’000 $’000 $’000 Investment revenue 24,729 11,790 12,939 Higher revenue from the PIF is largely due to unrealised gains in market value and recovery of expenses incurred during the sale of Tasman Farms Limited. Other revenue 32,676 26,770 5,906 The Council received $1.3m above budget of forestry harvesting revenue as a result of higher harvesting activity than anticipated. The Council also received more revenue than budgeted in areas of venues (due to increased events during the year), regulatory services (due to higher volumes of consents), and solid waste (due to revenue recovery from the new recycling centre). Vested assets 5,934 3,020 2,914 Vested assets - assets whose ownership was passed to the Council - were greater than budget as a result of more assets than planned being transferred to the Council. Other expenses 66,990 53,440 13,550 The main drivers of the higher expenditure are attributable to the PIF and non-cash accounting adjustments such as impairment, loss on revaluation of interest rate swaps and loss on sale of assets which were higher than budgeted for.
Statement of Financial Position 2015/16 2015/16 Variance Comments Actual Budget $’000 $’000 $’000 Other financial assets 128,647 102,240 26,407 This variance is a result of exchange Tasmanian Land Company Limited 183,796 165,290 18,506 rate movements differing from budget and higher long term deposits to meet cashflow requirements. Property, plant and equipment 2,142,457 2,155,970 (13,513) The increase in revaluation was less than budgeted, and the capital works programme has been delayed resulting in works to be carried forward into the next financial year. Public debt and other loans 110,000 118,080 (8,080) Borrowings have not increased as expected due to the delay in our capital programme as noted above. Special funds/reserves 85,250 69,150 16,100 Due to the timing of our capital programme as outlined above, our depreciation reserve balances have increased.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 111 Notes to the Financial Statements
32. Related parties transactions The Council has control of and is deemed to have related party relationships with Taranaki Investment Management Limited, New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture, Forestry Joint Ventures, Venture Taranaki Trust, Tasmanian Land Company Limited and Len Lye Centre Trust.
No debts between the parties were written off or forgiven during the reporting period (2015: nil). No transactions took place at nil or nominal value (2015: nil).
Forestry Joint Ventures Transactions between the two parties consist of reimbursement of costs incurred by the Council on behalf of the forestry joint ventures and of charges made to the forestry joint ventures for the provision of services.
The total value of these transactions, excluding GST, during the year amounted to: 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 McKay Joint Venture 7 5 Duthie Joint Venture 7 5 Oakura Farms Limited Joint Venture 4 9 Tarata Ngatimaru Pukehou Joint Venture 7 5
New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture During the year the following transactions took place: 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Services provided by the Council 362 300 Land to the Council 14,138 - Lease charges to the Council 2 20 Interest and Loan repayments 287 354 Accounts payable to the Council 1 46 Loan to New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture 3,148 2,584
Taranaki Investment Management Limited The Council is a related party because it owns all the shares in the company. 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Services provided to the Council 454 1,314 Amounts receivable from the Council 404 310 Services provided by the Council 84 68 Accounts payable to the Council 1,514 150 Related party advance 60 -
No members of the Council or its senior management have entered into any transactions with the company during the 2015/16 year (2015: nil).
112 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
Venture Taranaki Trust The Council is a related party because it owns all the shares in the company. 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Services/grants provided by the Council 2,766 3,127 Services provided by Venture Taranaki Trust 286 271 Amounts receivable from/to the Council 4 -
Tasmanian Land Company Limited The Council is a related party because it owns all the shares in the company. 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Amounts invoiced for services received from TLC - 70 Amounts invoiced for services provided to TLC 4,699 - Amounts receivable from TLC 4,699 -
Len Lye Centre Trust The Council is a related party because the Len Lye Centre Trust was established to undertake fundraising for the Len Lye Centre. 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Fundraising received by the Council 64 453 Amounts receivable from Len Lye Centre Trust 28 -
Key management and members of the Council During the year councillors and key management, as part of a normal customer relationship, were involved in minor transactions with the Council such as payment of rates and purchase of rubbish bags.
No councillors or senior management have entered into related party transactions with the Group.
33. Remuneration The Chief Executive of the Council received a gross salary of $345,635 (2015: $338,630). In terms of the contract the Chief Executive also received a motor vehicle benefit of $14,629 (2015: $14,629).
For the year ended 30 June 2016 the total annual cost, including fringe benefits, to the Council of the remuneration package being received by the Chief Executive is calculated at $360,264 (2015: $353,259).
Total benefits received by Chief Executive and key management personnel 2015/16 2014/15 Total remuneration $1,376,049 $1,284,381 Full-time equivalents 5.8 4
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 113 Notes to the Financial Statements
33. Remuneration (continued) Councillors (total salary and allowances paid to the Mayor and councillors) 2015/16 2014/15 $ $ Andrew Judd (Mayor) 134,200 130,838 Keith Allum 41,300 38,143 Shaun Biesiek 51,625 47,678 Gordon Brown 51,625 47,678 Murray Chong 41,300 38,143 Grant Coward 41,300 38,143 Heather Dodunski 57,820 53,400 Harry Duynhoven 41,300 11,546 Richard Handley 41,300 38,143 Len Houwers - 16,658 Colin Johnston 41,300 38,143 Richard Jordan 41,300 38,143 Craig McFarlane 51,859 48,380 John McLeod - 8,912 Marie Pearce 41,300 38,143 Howie Tamati 41,300 38,143 Roy Weaver 41,300 11,546 Closing balance 30 June 760,129 681,780
Full-time equivalents 15 15
Due to the difficulty in determining the full-time equivalents for Councillors, the full-time equivalent is taken as the number of Councillors.
Total remuneration by salary band 2015/16 2014/15 < $60,000 360 351 $60k - $79,999 116 111 $80k - $99,999 68 56 $100k - $119,999 19 21 $120k - $139,999 9 7 $140k - $379,999 12 11 Total head count 584 557
Permanent full-time equivalents 339 332 Full-time equivalent of all other employees 148 147 Total full-time equivalent as at 30 June 487 479
34. Severance payments Council and Group 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual $’000 $’000 Severance payment one 2 5 Severance payment two - 10 Total severance payments 2 15
114 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Notes to the Financial Statements
35. Commitments Council Group 2015/16 2014/15 2015/16 2014/15 Actual Actual Actual Actual $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Capital commitments approved and contracted Property, plant and equipment: Within one year 3,565 3,215 3,565 3,215 Later than one year and not later than five years - 3,754 - 3,754 3,565 6,969 3,565 6,969 Non-cancellable operating lease commitments as lessee Within one year 21 11 61 216 Later than one year and not later than five years 32 - 32 324 Later than five years - - - 77 53 11 93 617 Non-cancellable operating lease commitments as lessor Within one year 1,928 1,920 1,928 1,920 Later than one year and not later than five years 6,222 6,151 6,222 6,151 Later than five years 12,146 12,124 12,146 12,124 20,296 20,195 20,296 20,195
The Council and Group leases some equipment such as phone systems, eftpos machines and photocopiers.
The Council and Group leases out land, buildings and office space.
The Council through its PIF has commitments to subscribe to a number of private equity funds. At balance date $9.0m (2015: $8.1m) of this commitment has yet to be called up.
36. Contingencies Contingent liabilities Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) The Council has 232.0 hectares (2015: 235.6 hectares) of pre-1990 forest land determined under the Climate Change Response Act 2002 (CCR). Under the ETS, the Council will incur financial penalties should the land be deforested as defined by CCR.At year end approximately 7.2 hectares (2015: 19.4 hectares) had been harvested but not yet replanted. There is a four year stand-down period allowed between harvest and replanting. The Council intends to replant and/or let that portion naturally regenerate and has not given notice of intention to deforest. The Council does not consider it has a contingent liability.
Weathertightness The Council is subject to two claims (2015: four claims) relating to weathertightness of buildings. These were lodged under the Weathertight Home Resolution Service (and one is subject to the Financial Assistance Package Scheme with the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment). A provision has been made for the two claims in the current year therefore there is no contingent liability (2015: $1.1m was considered a contingent liability).
The Council also acknowledges that it may be liable for claims in the future relating to weathertightness buildings not yet identified. Information surrounding these potential claims is subject to extreme uncertainty and therefore no provision has been made for any potential future claims.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 115 Notes to the Financial Statements
Local Government Funding Agency (LGFA) The Council is a guarantor of LGFA. The LGFA was incorporated in December 2011 with the purpose of providing debt funding to local authorities in New Zealand. It has a current credit rating from Standard and Poor’s of AA+.
The Council is one of 41 local authority guarantors and 31 local authority shareholders of LGFA. The aggregate amount of uncalled shareholder capital is available in the event that an imminent default is identified.Also, together with other guarantors and shareholders, the Council is guarantor of all LGFA’s borrowings 30 June 2016 the Council’s contingent liability in regards to the total LGFA borrowings was $6.22 billion (2015: $5.01 billion).
Financial reporting standards require the Council to recognise the guarantee liability at fair value. However, the Council has been unable to determine a sufficiently reliable fair value for the guarantee, and therefore has not recognised a liability. The Council considers the risk of LGFA defaulting on repayment of interest or capital to be very low on the basis that:
• We are not aware of any local authority debt default events in New Zealand; and • Local government legislation would enable local authorities to levy a rate to recover sufficient funds to meet any debt obligations if further funds were required.
RiskPool RiskPool provides public liability and professional indemnity insurance for its members. The Council is a member of RiskPool. The Trust Deed of RiskPool provides that, if there is a shortfall (whereby claims exceed contributions of members and reinsurance recoveries) in any Fund year, then the Board may make a call on members for the Fund year. The Council has been asked to make calls in the past for Fund years as a result of deficits incurred due to the “leaky building” issue. No calls have been made by the Board of New Zealand Mutual Liability RiskPool for the 2015/16 year (2015: Nil). There may be further calls on any shortfalls on the mutual pool’s funds in the future, but the full extent of these calls have yet to be ascertained. However, as each year passes and statute of limitation period expire, the risk of further calls decreases. Accordingly, the Council has assessed that the potential liability to the Council arising from these claims is minimal. Airport land The Crown has a revisionary interest in 50% of the Airport land. This interest will crystallise if at any point in the future the Council ceases to operate the Airport and were to offer the land under the Public Works Act 1981. The quantum of this interest would be contingent on the value of the land at the time the land was offered under the Public Works Act 1981.
There are no other known material contingent liabilities (2015: nil).
Contingent assets There are no known contingent assets (2015: nil).
37. Subsequent events There are no significant events subsequent to balance date (2015: nil).
116 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For whole of Council
Actual LTP Actual A/Plan 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 49,233 52,444 47,710 46,810 Targeted rates 29,291 25,494 27,990 27,540 Subsidies and grants for operating purposes 5,497 5,523 5,160 5,510 Fees and charges 34,296 21,760 24,010 20,910 Interest and dividends from investments 9,130 9,242 8,580 10,810 Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other 1,511 7,002 9,040 9,090 receipts Total operating funding (A) 128,958 121,465 122,490 120,670 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 94,607 89,354 87,080 88,680 Finance costs 5,703 7,917 5,920 8,330 Other operating funding applications 87 (234) - - Total applications of operating funding (B) 100,397 97,037 93,000 97,010 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 28,561 24,428 29,490 23,660 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure 5,447 4,876 9,970 9,430 Development and financial contributions 1,071 939 1,550 700 Increase (decrease) in debt (3,650) 3,694 2,700 4,170 Gross proceeds from sale of assets 1,506 366 1,600 1,810 Lump sum contributions - - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) 4,374 9,875 15,820 16,110 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand 1,802 2,920 1,110 4,070 • to improve the level of service 10,964 9,809 17,590 16,850 • to replace existing assets 20,237 22,742 23,680 21,560 Increase (decrease) in reserves (68) (1,168) 2,930 (5,420) Increase (decrease) of investments - - - 2,710 Total applications of capital funding (D) 32,935 34,303 45,310 39,770 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (28,561) (24,428) (29,490) (23,660) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 30,795 31,613 30,560 80,488 less deferred/unfunded (12,063) (12,863) (15,690) (31,576) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 18,732 18,750 14,870 48,912
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 117 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Parks
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 13,078 13,078 12,571 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes 22 30 30 Fees and charges 1,949 1,863 1,851 Internal charges and overheads recovered 239 223 200 Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 15,288 15,194 14,652 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 9,270 9,268 9,326 Finance costs 302 286 596 Internal charges and overheads applied 2,967 4,326 3,475 Other operating funding applications - (1) - Total applications of operating funding (B) 12,539 13,879 13,397 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 2,749 1,315 1,255 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions 117 - - Increase (decrease) in debt 1,881 439 1,408 Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) 1,998 439 1,408 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand 653 126 1,210 • to improve the level of service 1,286 314 596 • to replace existing assets 1,475 1,991 2,218 Increase (decrease) in reserves 1,333 (677) (1,361) Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 4,747 1,754 2,663 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (2,749) (1,315) (1,255) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 2,450 1,785 2,538 less deferred/unfunded (460) (472) (1,283) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 1,990 1,313 1,255
118 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Roads and Footpaths
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 7,959 11,573 8,657 Targeted rates 3,593 - 3,320 Subsidies and grants for operating purposes 3,784 4,013 4,103 Fees and charges 401 296 (230) Internal charges and overheads recovered - 31 31 Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts 530 530 500 Total operating funding (A) 16,267 16,443 16,381 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 9,138 8,311 8,388 Finance costs 1,375 1,375 1,619 Internal charges and overheads applied 1,367 1,364 1,399 Other operating funding applications - - - Total applications of operating funding (B) 11,880 11,050 11,406 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 4,387 5,393 4,975 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure 5,334 4,656 5,880 Development and financial contributions 264 - - Increase (decrease) in debt 1,103 1,217 1,381 Gross proceeds from sale of assets 1,315 - 143 Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) 8,016 5,873 7,404 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand 525 432 494 • to improve the level of service 3,186 1,655 3,308 • to replace existing assets 7,884 7,745 8,353 Increase (decrease) in reserves 808 1,434 224 Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 12,403 11,266 12,379 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (4,387) (5,393) (4,975) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 10,266 10,566 10,673 less deferred/unfunded (4,953) (5,253) (5,358) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 5,313 5,313 5,315
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 119 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Stormwater Drainage
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 1,640 1,640 1,692 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges 13 14 13 Internal charges and overheads recovered - - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 1,653 1,654 1,705 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 491 543 538 Finance costs 132 132 239 Internal charges and overheads applied 305 352 356 Other operating funding applications - (2) Total applications of operating funding (B) 928 1,025 1,133 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 725 629 572 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions 23 - - Increase (decrease) in debt 1,024 67 712 Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) 1,047 67 712 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand 31 3 78 • to improve the level of service 1,010 65 650 • to replace existing assets 83 161 587 Increase (decrease) in reserves 648 467 (31) Increase (decrease) of investments - Total applications of capital funding (D) 1,772 696 1,284 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (725) (629) (572) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 1,845 1,672 1,676 less deferred/unfunded (1,217) (1,044) (1,104) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 628 628 572
120 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Flood Protection and Control Works
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 177 217 162 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges - - - Internal charges and overheads recovered - - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 177 217 162 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 160 140 132 Finance costs 18 18 19 Internal charges and overheads applied 50 12 12 Other operating funding applications - Total applications of operating funding (B) 228 170 163 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) (51) 47 (1) Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt 4 (9) 16 Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) 4 (9) 16 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - 5 • to improve the level of service 9 31 13 • to replace existing assets 9 31 29 Increase (decrease) in reserves (65) (24) (32) Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) (47) 38 15 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) 51 (47) 1 Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 147 119 116 less deferred/unfunded (140) (112) (116) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 7 7 -
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 121 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Solid Waste and Refuse Collection
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties - - - Targeted rates 2,257 2,247 1,667 Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges 5,293 5,134 5,360 Internal charges and overheads recovered 724 - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 8,274 7,381 7,027 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 4,230 4,568 4,401 Finance costs 154 154 12 Internal charges and overheads applied 1,315 1,781 452 Other operating funding applications - (2) - Total applications of operating funding (B) 5,699 6,501 4,865 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 2,575 880 2,162 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - 220 - Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt (175) (56) (2) Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) (175) 164 (2) Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service 3,039 3,317 3,015 • to replace existing assets 56 101 - Increase (decrease) in reserves (695) (2,374) (855) Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 2,400 1,044 2,160 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (2,575) (880) (2,162) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 279 243 218 less deferred/unfunded - - (8) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 279 243 210
122 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Water Supply
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties - - - Targeted rates 10,383 10,258 10,205 Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges 354 313 309 Internal charges and overheads recovered - - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 10,737 10,571 10,514 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 2,827 3,605 3,312 Finance costs 1,721 1,721 1,719 Internal charges and overheads applied 1,978 1,951 1,920 Other operating funding applications - 1 - Total applications of operating funding (B) 6,526 7,278 6,951 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 4,211 3,293 3,563 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions 303 - - Increase (decrease) in debt (729) 1,068 (139) Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) (426) 1,068 (139) Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand 236 757 609 • to improve the level of service 655 1,297 766 • to replace existing assets 1,686 1,825 604 Increase (decrease) in reserves 1,208 482 1,445 Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 3,785 4,361 3,424 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (4,211) (3,293) (3,563) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 3,976 4,134 4,072 less deferred/unfunded (1,567) (1,711) (1,122) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 2,409 2,423 2,950
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 123 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Wastewater Treatment
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties - - - Targeted rates 13,083 13,220 12,535 Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges 2,001 1,943 2,131 Internal charges and overheads recovered - 23 23 Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 15,084 15,186 14,689 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 4,755 4,436 4,328 Finance costs 3,656 3,656 3,751 Internal charges and overheads applied 2,300 2,543 2,439 Other operating funding applications - 1 - Total applications of operating funding (B) 10,711 10,636 10,518 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 4,373 4,550 4,171 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - 11 Development and financial contributions 326 - - Increase (decrease) in debt (1,277) 659 897 Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) (951) 659 908 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand 366 1,602 1,670 • to improve the level of service 632 1,440 1,644 • to replace existing assets 2,718 4,563 1,943 Increase (decrease) in reserves (294) (2,396) (178) Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 3,422 5,209 5,079 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (4,373) (4,550) (4,171) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 5,472 5,718 5,638 less deferred/unfunded (3,408) (3,653) (3,343) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 2,064 2,065 2,295
124 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Emergency Management and Business Continuance
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 471 471 481 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges 29 1 1 Internal charges and overheads recovered - - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 500 472 482 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 369 346 339 Finance costs - - - Internal charges and overheads applied 127 126 143 Other operating funding applications - - - Total applications of operating funding (B) 496 472 482 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 4 - - Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt - - - Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) - - - Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service - - - • to replace existing assets - - - Increase (decrease) in reserves 4 - - Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 4 - - Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (4) - - Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense - - - less deferred/unfunded - - - Net funding transferred to renewals reserves - - -
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 125 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Community Partnerships
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 2,659 2,659 3,754 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes 87 58 51 Fees and charges 938 998 912 Internal charges and overheads recovered - 164 94 Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 3,684 3,879 4,811 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 2,440 2,799 3,891 Finance costs 15 15 15 Internal charges and overheads applied 590 816 751 Other operating funding applications - - - Total applications of operating funding (B) 3,045 3,630 4,657 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 639 249 154 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt - - - Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) - - - Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service - - - • to replace existing assets 97 113 113 Increase (decrease) in reserves 542 136 41 Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 639 249 154 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (639) (249) (154) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 292 297 304 less deferred/unfunded (6) - (102) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 286 297 202
126 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Govett-Brewster Art Gallery
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 3,209 3,209 3,334 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes 199 451 218 Fees and charges 390 216 136 Internal charges and overheads recovered - - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 3,798 3,876 3,688 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 3,229 2,639 2,577 Finance costs - - - Internal charges and overheads applied 1,511 1,084 994 Other operating funding applications - 1 - Total applications of operating funding (B) 4,740 3,724 3,571 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) (942) 152 117 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure 50 - 3,534 Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt - - (241) Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) 50 - 3,293 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service 523 - 5,627 • to replace existing assets 153 432 2,944 Increase (decrease) in reserves (1,568) (280) (5,161) Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) (892) 152 3,410 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) 942 (152) (117) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 465 149 95 less deferred/unfunded (381) - - Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 84 149 95
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 127 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Puke Ariki and District Libraries
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 10,877 10,877 10,813 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes 518 396 564 Fees and charges 408 432 429 Internal charges and overheads recovered - 159 159 Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 11,803 11,864 11,965 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 4,757 5,328 6,099 Finance costs - - - Internal charges and overheads applied 4,526 4,578 3,790 Other operating funding applications - 1 - Total applications of operating funding (B) 9,283 9,907 9,889 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 2,520 1,957 2,076 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure 63 - - Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt - - - Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) 63 - - Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service 493 320 526 • to replace existing assets 1,339 1,153 976 Increase (decrease) in reserves 751 484 574 Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 2,583 1,957 2,076 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (2,520) (1,957) (2,076) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 1,793 1,789 2,001 less deferred/unfunded (335) (313) (455) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 1,458 1,476 1,546
128 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Recreation and Events
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 6,571 6,571 6,852 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes 887 540 548 Fees and charges 2,723 2,279 2,448 Internal charges and overheads recovered - - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 10,181 9,390 9,848 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 6,203 4,379 5,786 Finance costs - - - Internal charges and overheads applied 4,022 3,869 2,759 Other operating funding applications - 1 - Total applications of operating funding (B) 10,225 8,249 8,545 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) (44) 1,141 1,303 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions 37 - - Increase (decrease) in debt - - (174) Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) 37 - (174) Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service 40 28 83 • to replace existing assets 539 1,080 413 Increase (decrease) in reserves (586) 33 633 Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) (7) 1,141 1,129 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) 44 (1,141) (1,303) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 1,290 1,280 1,298 less deferred/unfunded (83) (260) (188) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 1,207 1,020 1,110
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 129 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Regulatory Services
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 2,183 2,183 2,357 Targeted rates 45 - 34 Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - 35 - Fees and charges 8,200 7,915 7,129 Internal charges and overheads recovered - 763 1,279 Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts 790 1,125 1,643 Total operating funding (A) 11,218 12,021 12,442 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 7,808 7,637 7,704 Finance costs - - - Internal charges and overheads applied 4,710 4,148 4,481 Other operating funding applications - - - Total applications of operating funding (B) 12,518 11,785 12,185 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) (1,300) 236 257 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions - 939 703 Increase (decrease) in debt - - - Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) - 939 703 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service - - 11 • to replace existing assets 17 156 16 Increase (decrease) in reserves (1,317) 1,019 933 Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) (1,300) 1,175 960 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) 1,300 (236) (257) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 279 280 318 less deferred/unfunded (6) (45) (72) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 273 235 246
130 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Economic Development
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 2,803 2,803 2,758 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges - - - Internal charges and overheads recovered - - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 2,803 2,803 2,758 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 2,758 2,744 2,703 Finance costs - - - Internal charges and overheads applied 57 59 55 Other operating funding applications - - - Total applications of operating funding (B) 2,815 2,803 2,758 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) (12) - - Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt - - - Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) - - - Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service - - - • to replace existing assets - - - Increase (decrease) in reserves (12) - - Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) (12) - - Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) 12 - - Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense - - - less deferred/unfunded - - - Net funding transferred to renewals reserves - - -
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 131 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Civic and Democracy Services
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties 5,800 5,800 6,005 Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges 21 3 3 Internal charges and overheads recovered - - - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts - - - Total operating funding (A) 5,821 5,803 6,008 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 2,339 2,129 2,136 Finance costs - - - Internal charges and overheads applied 3,406 3,626 3,823 Other operating funding applications - (1) - Total applications of operating funding (B) 5,745 5,754 5,959 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 76 49 49 Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt - - - Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - - Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) - - - Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service - - - • to replace existing assets - - - Increase (decrease) in reserves 76 49 49 Increase (decrease) of investments - - - Total applications of capital funding (D) 76 49 49 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (76) (49) (49) Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense - - - less deferred/unfunded - - - Net funding transferred to renewals reserves - - -
132 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Funding Impact Statements
Funding Impact Statement For Management of Investments and Funding
Actual LTP LTP 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 $’000 Sources of operating funding General rates, uniform annual charges, rates penalties (8,304) (8,304) (12,617) Targeted rates - - - Subsidies and grants for operating purposes - - - Fees and charges 9,050 - 1 Internal charges and overheads recovered - (24) - Local authorities fuel tax, fines, infringement fees and other receipts 9,130 14,589 17,763 Total operating funding (A) 9,876 6,261 5,147 Applications of operating funding Payments to staff and suppliers 6,987 3,977 4,827 Finance costs (1,893) 322 81 Internal charges and overheads applied 1,347 1,056 1,144 Other operating funding applications 87 - Total applications of operating funding (B) 6,528 5,355 6,052 Surplus (deficit) of operating funding (A - B) 3,348 906 (905) Sources of capital funding Subsidies and grants for capital expenditure - - - Development and financial contributions - - - Increase (decrease) in debt (857) (488) 301 Gross proceeds from sale of assets - - 1,204 Lump sum contributions - - - Other dedicated capital funding - - - Total sources of capital funding (C) (857) (488) 1,505 Applications of capital funding Capital expenditure: • to meet additional demand - - - • to improve the level of service - 251 - • to replace existing assets - 251 - Increase (decrease) in reserves 2,491 (84) (2,110) Increase (decrease) of investments - - 2,710 Total applications of capital funding (D) 2,491 418 600 Surplus (deficit) of capital funding (C - D) (3,348) (906) 905 Funding balance ((A - B) + (C - D)) - - -
Other information to be provided Clause 5(4) Local Government (Financial Reporting and Prudence) Regulations 2014 Depreciation and amortisation expense Depreciation expense 2 28 5 less deferred/unfunded - - (2,539) Net funding transferred to renewals reserves 2 28 (2,534)
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 133 134 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Council-controlled Organisations
The Council is a shareholder or has an ownership interest in the following Council-controlled Organisations:
• New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture. • Four forestry joint ventures. • Taranaki Investment Management Limited. • Tasmanian Land Company Limited (and its subsidiary Van Diemen’s Land Company). • Venture Taranaki Trust. The following information explains what the organisations do and how their performance is measured.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS 135 New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture
Responsibility Manager Property Assets
Summary of 2015/16 Statement of Intent The New Plymouth Airport is a 50:50 joint venture between the Crown and the Council and is therefore deemed to be a Council-controlled Organisation (CCO). The Council holds the aerodrome operator’s certificate and operates the airport on behalf of the joint venture. The operation covers the provision, maintenance and operation of the land and facilities, including the runways and the terminal building, but excludes the control tower and navigational aids which are provided, maintained and operated by the Airways Corporation of New Zealand (ACNZ). Land not required for aircraft operations and the terminal is leased for hangars, aviation-related businesses and grazing. The continued involvement of central government in the New Plymouth Airport is currently under review. The provision of airport infrastructure is essential to enhance the growth and economic development of the District and the Taranaki region and is an important aspect of residents’ quality of life. The Joint Venture partners have recently approved that detailing planning be undertaken for a major Terminal upgrade and expansion along with additional aircraft parking and upgrades to water and sewerage services. This proposed $11m package of capital expenditure is being funded entirely from airport revenue and is programmed for completion by mid 2017.
Performance results for 2015/16 Below are the key objectives and performance indicators derived from the 2015/16 Statement of Intent.
1. To provide airport facilities to serve the needs of the Taranaki region by:
-- Meeting all the operating, maintenance, capital expenditure and joint venture partners’ interest costs from the revenue. The operating costs $1,710,193 (exec depreciation and land disposal), maintenance costs have been met from revenue. During the year an advance of $700k was given to the Airport to assist in covering capital expenditure. The interest on the advance and loan have all been met from revenue.
-- Maintaining facilities to avoid any diversion or cancellation of scheduled flights other than for weather or airline problems. Facilities have been maintained through the year and there were no divisions or cancellations of scheduled flights caused by the management of the airfield.
--
136 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture
-- Consultation with Airlines on the proposed runway extension from the current 1310 metres to 1500 metres. A new master plan was completed in December 2014 with a 10 year design horizon taking it out to 2023. Funding and approvals have been established for the terminal and building upgrade not the runway extension at this stage.
-- Complete detailed design of the terminal expansion project to enable final sign-off by the partners during the 2015/16 year, with a view to completion of construction by mid 2017. This was delayed due to the provision of facilities for Jetstar commencing operations. Design will be completed for construction to start in February 2017 and scheduled completion by second quarter of 2018.
2. To operate the New Plymouth Airport in full compliance with the approved operating procedures so as to achieve a clean audit report from the Civil Aviation Authority. The New Plymouth Airport Joint Venture operates under the Civil Aviation Rule Part 139 and is subject to an annual audit by the CAA. The latest audit report dated 22 June 2016 which advised that the Airport and rescue services were meeting standards, with no findings against the Airport. Significant policies and objectives on ownership and control The joint venture was deemed to be a Council-controlled organisation rather than created as such. It is essentially seen as a self-funding operation providing an essential service to the district and wider region. There is no formal board structure but the Council fulfils this governance role.
Financial Plan
Actual Budget Projected Projected 2015/16 2015/16 2016/17 2016/17 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Operating revenue 2,872 2,723 3,476 3,844 Operating expenditure 2,549 2,334 3,072 3,487 Net profit/(loss) 323 389 404 357
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS 137 Forestry Joint Ventures
Responsibility Property Manager
Summary of 2015/16 Statement of Intent The Council has four joint venture forestry developments that have varying levels of Council ownership (55 to 60 per cent) and are therefore deemed to be Council-controlled organisations. For convenience they are covered by one “combined” statement of intent. The woodlots will complement the harvest regime of the Council’s own forestry investment activities.
Forest plantations have been established under the following agreements:
Tarata Ngatimaru Pukehou Joint Venture (60 per cent) - 6.8 hectares
Öäkura Farms Limited Joint Venture (60 per cent) - 37.7 hectares
McKay Family Joint Venture (56.5 per cent) - 83.5 hectares
Duthie Joint Venture (54.82 per cent) - 22.7 hectares
A total of 150.7 hectares of forests are managed under joint venture agreements in which the landowner provides land and property related inputs, the council provides management and tending programmes for the crop and both parties share the returns from the forest harvest on an agreed ratio of respective inputs.
The Council’s longer term objective for these investments is to review its involvement after each joint venture is harvested.
Performance results for 2015/16 1. Complete all programmes outlined in the Forest Management Plans and Agreements. All programmes outlined in the Forest Management Plan for 2015/16 have been completed.
2. Report annually in compliance with agreements. The joint venture forest has been inspected by PF Olsen Limited with reports sent to the owners annually.
Significant policies and objectives on ownership and control
These joint ventures were originally set up to augment the harvest rotation for council-owned forestry. The Council will currently retain the joint ventures to harvest and then review its future position. There are no formal board structures.
Financial Plan
Actual Budget Projected Projected 2015/16 2015/16 2016/17 2016/17 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Council funding support 16 30 21 21
138 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Taranaki Investment Management Limited
Responsibility Group Manager Business Performance
Summary of 2015/16 Statement of Intent Taranaki Investment Management Limited (TIML) is a hundred per cent Council-owned company with independent directors. The Council contracts TIML for the provision of an investment management role in respect of the Council’s Perpetual Investment Fund, and an advisory role when requested in respect of the Council’s other investments in the Airport and various forestry ventures.
Performance results for 2015/16 The Company operates with the responsibility of:
1. Managing the Council’s Perpetual Investment Fund in terms of an agreement entered into with the Council on 14 December 2004 are subsequently updated by memorandum of amendment with the Council (hereinafter referred to as “the Agreement”), and within Investment and Treasury Policy guidelines as revised from time to time by TIML and approved by the Council. All required reports were provided in a full and timely manner to the Council through meetings and in writing while adhering to Treasury Policy guidelines.
2. Providing the Council with advice on the Council’s other equity and risk-based investments when requested. Advice was provided in a full and timely manner to the Council.
In respect of the Council’s investments the Company’s objectives are:
1. To meet its obligations in respect of the management of the Perpetual Investment Fund as set out in the Agreement. All obligations were met by TIML during the year.
2. To act for or assist the Council in its role as a diligent, constructive and enquiring shareholder/investor. During the financial year the Council’s investment in Tasmanian Land Company was sold which generated a largely favourable profit.
3. To protect and enhance the income streams from and the value of the PIF investments. The Council did not request advice on its non-PIF investments during the year.
Significant policies and obligations on ownership and control
TIML was originally set up in 2000 as a purely advisory company to the Council in its various equity-based investments. TIML now manages the Council’s Perpetual Investment Fund while still retaining an advisory role on other investments. TIML has a formal board structure with appointments made by the Council.
Financial Plan
Actual Budget Projected Projected 2015/16 2015/16 2016/17 2016/17 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Operating revenue/expenditure 2,083 1,457 1,555 1,600 Net profit - - - -
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS 139 Tasmanian Land Company Limited (formerly Tasman Farms Limited)
Responsibility Group Manager Business Performance
Nature and scope of activity New Plymouth District Council is a 100% shareholder in Tasmanian Land Company Limited (TLC). TLC owned 100% of Tasman Farms Limited (TFL) and its subsidiary The Van Diemen’s Land Company (VDL). The three companies are referred to interchangeably. TLC is a Council-controlled trading organisation.
Performance results for 2015/16 The Company milked 18,455 cows on 25 farms having a total effective area of 7,062 hectares for total production in the period ended 31 March 2016 of 6.41 million kilograms of milk solids (kgMS).
During the year the Company entered a sales and purchase agreement for the Tasmanian dairy business with Moonlake Investments Pty Ltd which settled on 31 March 2016.
See table below for key financial results.
Actual Actual 2015/16 2014/15 $’000 $’000 Operating revenue 100,935 56,233 Net surplus after tax 34,700 2,999
Significant policies and objectives on ownership and control This investment forms part of the Council’s Perpetual Investment Fund and is subject to the policies and objectives for that fund.
140 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Venture Taranaki Trust
Responsibility Group Manager Strategy
Summary of 2015/16 Statement of Intent Venture Taranaki Trust (Venture Taranaki) is a council-controlled organisation whose Board of Trustees is appointed by the Council. Venture Taranaki is the economic development agency for the Council, responsible for delivering the Council’s economic development initiatives as set out in its statement of intent. Its vision is for a prosperous, skilled, vibrant and sustainable economy that provides a high quality of life for the citizens of New Plymouth District and the wider Taranaki community.
The Venture Taranaki objectives are to:
1. Provide leadership and support for the development and implementation of local, regional and national strategies for the creation of a vibrant and prosperous New Plymouth District economy and the Taranaki regional economy.
2. Facilitate, promote, encourage and support sustainable business growth, investment and employment opportunities in New Plymouth and regional Taranaki.
3. Support and recognise the District’s commercial enterprises, large and small, mature or start-up to establish, flourish and prosper.
The nature and scope of Venture Taranaki activities for the present and future members of the community resident in the Taranaki region include:
• Facilitate sustainable employment opportunities. • Facilitate sustainable economic benefits. • Provide educational training courses, presentations and other learning experiences. • Research, acquire and update information about the Taranaki region. • Promote Taranaki as a desirable region in which to establish a business, live, work and visit. • Support projects beneficial to the aranakiT region. Performance results for 2015/16 In 2014 the Council adopted an Economic Development Strategy for the New Plymouth District. This strategy, together with the Regional Economic Development Strategy “Taranaki 2035: Taranaki’s Regional Economic Development Strategy 2010-2035”, guides the annual objectives and performance measures:
1. Improve connections within New Zealand and with the world
Relates to Team Taranaki priorities in the Regional Economic Development Strategy. –– Maintain a regional economic intelligence unit and undertake one Team Taranaki submisison on a key regional issue. Achieved. Submission briefing by Team Taranaki to Prime Minister and Minister of Conservation on Pouakai Crossing.
–– Publish bi-annually Taranaki Trends and business survey. Achieved. Researched and published two Taranaki Trends. Surveyed and published two business surveys.
–– Maintain connections across www.taranaki.info and social media channels (all themes and priority areas). Achieved. Visit section of www.taranaki.info redeveloped over year. Biz 2 Biz facebook followers up 382 or 39%. Taranaki Like No Other facebook followers up 4,189 or 11.6%. Twitter followers up 1,370 or 35.7%. Instagram followers up 3,166 or 337.0%.
2.
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS 141 Venture Taranaki Trust
3. Encourage enterprise and innovation in all areas of the economy
Relates to Foundation Taranaki priority in the Regional Economic Development Strategy. –– Facilitate $500,000 investment into regional businesses subject to central government policy. Achieved. $1,086,765 (GST inclusive) of research and development, and innovation funding facilitated into Taranaki business (across 24 transactions).
–– Achieve >80 per cent client satisfaction in regard to business support services. Achieved. 91.8% client satisfaction with Venture Taranaki business services.
4. Capitalise on key clusters and economic advances
Relates to Frontier Taranaki priority in the Regional Economic Development Strategy. –– Support two key wealth creating industry groups. Achieved. Oil and Gas Specialist Technologies and International Education Taranaki.
–– Support one project with high impact potential aligned with the regional growth agenda. Achieved. Provided an investment workshop in October 2015. Following this event, facilitated meetings with interested parties on the formation of a local Angel Group. These discussions led to the Taranaki Investment Group Incorporated being established in March 2016. It has since set up its operating systems and began considering investment opportunities in June 2016.
5. Build and retain a highly skilled workforce
Relates to Talented Taranaki priority in the Regional Economic Development Strategy. –– Invest $140,000 in management capability building for Taranaki small-to-medium enterprises subject to central government policy. Achieved. $326,364 of capability development voucher funding invested across 235 vouchers.
6. Promote our district as a desirable and unique place to visit, live and invest in
Relates to Desirable Taranaki priority in the Regional Economic Development Strategy. –– Attract or retain three major events meeting New Plymouth District Council criteria (>100 points) based on $700k event fund. Achieved. Wellington Phoenix vs. NZA Football Game 2015, Taranaki Steelformers Around the Mountain Relay 2015 and 2016, NZ Tattoo and Art Festival 2015 and 2016, BDO Around the Mountain Cycle Challenge 2016 and 2017, Tropfest 2016 and 2017, ITU New Plymouth Sprint Triathlon World Cup 2016, AmeriCARna 2016 and 2017, Georgie Pie Super Smash T20 Cricket, PSP NZ Jetsprint Championship 2016, Warriors vs Canberra Raiders - NRL Telstra Premiership Fixture, WOMAD 2016, Powerco Taranaki Garden Spectacular 2016.
–– Provide a minimum of six pieces of regional collateral to inspire the communities of Taranaki, visiting conferences, events and leisure travellers to explore and enjoy the many aspects of the region. Achieved. Collateral includes Taranaki - A Walkers Guide, Taranaki Museums and Galleries, Taranaki Parks and Gardens, Taranaki Visitors Guide, Forgotten World Highway Touring Route Guide, Surf Highway 45 Touring Route Guide, Taranaki Must Dos and Taranaki Event Toolkit.
The Venture Taranaki Statement of Intent for the year ended 30 June 2016 includes the above themes.
142 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Venture Taranaki Trust
Significant policies and objectives on ownership and control The Council controls the Venture Taranaki Trust by appointing its trustees. This is to ensure the necessary independence, public credibility and specialised governance that the trust needs in order to be effective in delivering economic development programmes, while retaining accountability to the district’s community.
Financial Plan
Actual Budget Projected Projected 2015/16 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Operating expenditure (NPDC funded) 2,763 2,758 2,820 2,886
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS 143 144 COUNCIL-CONTROLLED ORGANISATIONS New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Auditor’s Report
Independent Auditor’s Report To the readers of New Plymouth District Council and group’s annual report for the year ended 30 June 2016
AUDITOR’S REPORT 145 Auditor’s Report
146 AUDITOR’S REPORT New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 Auditor’s Report
New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16 AUDITOR’S REPORT 147 Statement of Compliance and Responsibility
The Council and management of New Plymouth District Council confirm that all statutory requirements of the Local Government Act 2002 in relation to the Annual Report have been complied with.
Responsibility The Council and management of New Plymouth District Council accept responsibility for the preparation of the annual financial statements and the judgements used in them.
The Council and management of New Plymouth District Council accept responsibility for establishing and maintaining a system of internal control designed to provide reasonable assurance as to the integrity and reliability of financial reporting.
In the opinion of the Council and the management of New Plymouth District Council, the annual financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2016 fairly reflect the financial position, operations and service performance of New Plymouth District Council.
Andrew Judd Barbara McKerrow Mayor Chief Executive
148 STATEMENT OF COMPLIANCE AND RESPONSIBILITY New Plymouth District Council Annual Report 2015/16
For more information: New Plymouth District Council Private Bag 2025 New Plymouth
Phone: 06-759 6060 Email: [email protected] Web: newplymouthnz.com 1 ITEM D
ANNUAL REPORT FOR TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016 (2015/16) PREPARED BY: Phil Armstrong (Manager Business Services) TEAM: Business Services APPROVED BY: Alan Bird (Chief Financial Officer) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 3 October 2016 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 7246738
MATTER The matter for consideration is to receive and note the Annual Report for Taranaki Investment Management Limited (TIML) which has been audited by Audit New Zealand and adopted by the TIML Board.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report:
a) The Council receives and notes the Annual Report of Taranaki Investment Management Limited (TIML) for the year ended 30 June 2016.
b) The Council notes that there were no material changes made to the annual report subsequent to the Finance Subcommittee on 16 September 2016.
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is of some importance This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
Options 1. The Council receive and endorse the annual report of TIML for the year ended 30 June 2016.
The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are the Affected persons general public. Recommendation This report recommends option 1for addressing the matter.
Long-Term Plan / This is a reporting matter there are no impacts on the Annual or Long Annual Plan Term Plan Implications
Significant There are no inconsistencies with current policies and plans Policy and Plan Inconsistencies
Council Friday 7 October 2016 2 ITEM D
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In terms of the Local Government Act 2002, the Council Controlled Organisations are required to prepare, have audited and adopt an Annual Report each year.
BACKGROUND The purpose of the Annual Report is to report against measures and outcomes agreed to with the adoption in June 2015 of the Statement of Intent.
The TIML Board have reviewed and approved the Annual Report on 30 September 2016.
SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT In accordance with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy, this matter has been assessed as of some importance. The Annual report reflects passed performance and no decisions are required except for adoption by the Council of the reports.
OPTIONS Option 1 The Council receive and endorse the annual report of TIML for the year ended 30 June 2016.
RISK ANALYSIS There are no particular risks associated with adopting the reports. If the Council were to propose any changes there would need to be further audit work done. The Council is obligated by law to adopt the reports prior to the 30th September.
Recommended Option This report recommends option 1 for addressing the matter.
APPENDICES 1. Taranaki Investment Management Limited Annual Report
Council Friday 7 October 2016
TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED
CONTENTS
1 Company Directory
2 Statutory Information
6 Statement of Service Performance
7 Annual Performance Summary
9 Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expenses
10 Statement of Financial Position
11 Statement of Changes in Equity
12 Statement of Cashflows
13 Notes to the Financial Statements TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED
DIRECTORY
Directors: Keith G Sutton (Chairman) Jason C Dale Jamie G D Tuuta Elaine Gill (from 1 August 2015) M. Craig Norgate (until 7 July 2015)
Shareholder: New Plymouth District Council
Registration Details: Company Number 1102498
Registered Office: New Plymouth District Council Civic Chambers Liardet Street New Plymouth
Auditors: Audit New Zealand on behalf of the Auditor-General
Bankers: Westpac Banking Corporation PO Box 91 New Plymouth
Solicitors: Simpson Grierson PO Box 2402 Wellington
1 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED
STATUTORY INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
NATURE OF INTEREST COMPANY
Keith G Sutton BCA
Chairman Taranaki Investment Management Limited Chairman Tasman Farms Limited Chairman Tasmanian Land Company Ltd Governor The Van Diemen's Land Company Director Antipodean Lands Limited and Related Companies Director Te Tumu Paeroa (Maori Trustee) Advisory Board and related entities Director Bangor Farm Limited and Related Companies Director Consumer Electricity Limited Director Consumer Energy Limited Director Gough Group Limited and Related Companies Director Rangatira Forests Limited Director Run 351 Limited Director Sutton McCarthy Limited Director Te Tarake Forests Limited Director Wellington International Airport Limited and related entities Director Rural Livestock Ltd Beneficial Shareholding Australian Wealth Management Limited Beneficial Shareholding Balance Agri-Nutreints Limited Beneficial Shareholding Bangor Farm Limited and Related Companies Beneficial Shareholding Consolidated Rural Traders Limited Beneficial Shareholding Consumer Electricity Limited Beneficial Shareholding Consumer Energy Limited Beneficial Shareholding King Country Energy Limited Beneficial Shareholding Milk Strategies Limited Beneficial Shareholding Rangatira Forests Limited Beneficial Shareholding Run 351 Limited Beneficial Shareholding Sutton McCarthy Limited Beneficial Shareholding Te Tarake Forests Limited Beneficial Shareholding Tower Limited Beneficial Shareholding Widespread Portfolios Limited
2 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED
STATUTORY INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
NATURE OF INTEREST COMPANY
Jason Dale FCA
Director Taranaki Investment Management Limited Director Ravensdown Fertiliser Co-operative Ltd Chairman Audit Committee Ravensdown Fertiliser Co-operative Ltd Chairman TNX Limited Trustee Rockliff Family Trust Trustee Macquarie University Trustee Committee for Economic Development of Australia
Jamie G D Tuuta BsC
Chairman Te Ohu Kaimoana Portfolio Management Services Ltd - a subsidiary of Te Ohu Kaimoana
Maori Trustee Director Tamaki Makaurau Community Housing Limited Director Tuhono Whenua: Red Meat Coalition Limited Director Putake Limited Director Te Matai Kiwi Number 8 Limited Director Wools of New Zealand Limited Director Farm Skills Limited Director Taranaki Whanau Limited Trustee Venture Taranaki Trust Trustee Te Runanga o Ngati Mutunga Director Te Ohu Kaimoana Trustee Limited Director Aotearoa Fisheries Limited Director Taranaki Iwi Claims Management Limited Director Taranaki Investment Management Ltd Advisory Board LINZ Business with Maori Advisory Group Advisory Board Office of the Auditor General Member Tourism New Zealand
3 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED
STATUTORY INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
NATURE OF INTEREST COMPANY
Elaine Gill ONZM LLB JP (from 1 August 2015)
Director Taranaki Investment Management Limited Director WOMAD New Zealand Limited Chairperson Taranaki Employment Support Foundation (2000)
M. Craig Norgate FCA (until 7 July 2015)
Deputy Chairman Port Taranaki Limited Director Chiefs Rugby Club Director Taranaki Investment Management Ltd Director Tasman Farms Limited Director The Van Diemen's Land Company Beneficial shareholdings Scales Corporation Ltd
4 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED
STATUTORY INFORMATION FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
Shareholding by Directors The Directors do not hold any interest in the shares of Taranaki Investment Management Limited.
Insurance Arrangements The Directors have resolved to and have entered into a Directors and Officers Combined Indemnity insurance policy, to a level they consider appropriate, given the size of the Company and the role of the Company, to provide investment advisory services.
Dividend Recommendation The Directors do not recommend the payment of a dividend, in relation to the year ended 30 June 2016.
Changes in Accounting Policy There were no changes in accounting policies during the year to 30 June 2016.
Transaction Related Management Services The Company billed the TLC group in respect of management services rendered over the period from 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016 pursuant to agreements dated between 2011 and 2016.
Employees' Remuneration The Company employed three fulltime staff, during the year ended 30 June 2016. The gross personnel costs for the year ended 30 June 2016 was $1,195,892 (2015 $683,868).
Shares Issued The Company has 1,000 shares on issue as at 30 June 2016 (2015: 1,000).
Statutory Information The Shareholder has agreed that the requirements of section 211 (1) (a) and (e) to (h) of the Companies Act 1993 need not be reported against.
5 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED STATEMENT OF SERVICE PERFORMANCE FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
PERFORMANCE TARGETS The performance of Taranaki Investment Management Limited (TIML) will be judged against the shareholder service contract, the Statement of Intent, industry benchmarks, and policy objectives.
Quarterly reporting: To provide on at least a quarterly basis a report to the shareholder covering activities undertaken by the Company, and the performance of and significant issues relating to the Perpetual Investment Fund (PIF), and where required, in respect of the other investments and the industries in which they operate. The report will provide the information outlined in the Agreement.
Assessment: All required reports were provided in a full and timely manner to New Plymouth District Council.
Timely response: To provide investment advice within three months to the shareholder on any significant developments that may have an impact on either the income stream to the Council or the value of the Council's investments and provide advice prior to any transactions.
Assessment: Advice was provided in a full and timely manner to NPDC. Monthly Financial Performance reports are provided to the Finance Subcommittee.
Review of the Council's other investments: To review the Council's other investments as required and advise the Council on its position with regards to hold/growth/divestment strategies.
Assessment: The Council did not request advice on its non-PIF investments over this period.
Advice to the Council and proper enquiry of investment entities: The Company will provide advice to the shareholder and make proper enquiry of the investment entities in respect to: improvement of performance; protection/enhancement of the income stream; and consideration of the debt/equity and growth strategies with a view to improving the income stream from and value of the Council's investments.
Assessment: All proper enquiries were made of investment entities. Relevant meetings were held with Boards and Senior Management, and financial and performance metrics were monitored for performance of investment entities.
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE - REVENUE Year Ended 30 June 2016 2015/16 2015/16 2016/17 2017/18 Actual Budget Budget Budget Revenue 1,927,232 1,407,000 1,435,000 1,463,000 Net profit 0 0 0 0 Net profit after tax to average shareholder funds 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% 0.0% PIF performance target (after tax & fees before TIML costs) 9.6% 6.0% 6.0% 6.0%
Assessment: The sum of $1,427,554 was due to the company in respect of services rendered to the Tasmanian Land Company on the sale of the assets of that group.
6 PERPETUAL INVESTMENT FUND
Annual Performance Summary - 30 June 2016
Taranaki Investment Management Limited (TIML) is the Council Controlled Organisation (CCO) which has the contractual obligation to manage and invest the New Plymouth District Council's Perpetual Investment Fund as agreed in its service contract agreement with the Council.
Service Performance Indicators
Achieved 2016 Achieved 2015 Yes No Yes No
Manage the PIF as per agreement
Provide timely advice as requested Provide regular quarterly reports to the Council
Operate within financial budget
Provide SOI to the Council Provide six monthly report to the Council and public
Provide annual report to public within two X X months of end of financial year
TIML's income was higher than budget due to recoveries from the TLC group.
TIML's expenditure was higher than budget due to increased personnel costs.
Net advisory management fees were under budget with the net result being an improved position for NPDC.
7 PERPETUAL INVESTMENT FUND
Summary of Investment Performance for the year ended 30 June 2016
NPDC Perpetual Investment Fund
2016 2015 Actual Budget Actual Budget
Fund Performance $m % $m % $m % $m %
Opening fund value 1 July 253.6 253.6 218 218
Gross return after tax and before costs 24.4 9.6% 15.2 6.0% 43.8 20.1% 13.1 6.0%
Net costs for the year to 30 June -0.4 -0.2% -1.4 -0.6% -1.4 -0.7% -1.4 -0.7%
Release payments -7.3 -2.9% -7.3 -2.9% -6.8 -3.1% -9.1 -4.2% Closing Balance $270.2 $260.1 $253.6 $220.6
2016 2015 Actual Actual Budget SAA Actual Actual Budget SAA
Asset Allocation $m % $m % $m % $m %
Cash 197.9 73.2% 13.5 5% 8.7 3.4% 12.7 5%
Fixed income 3.0 1.1% 54.0 20% 3.0 1.2% 12.7 5%
NZ equities 2.3 0.8% 13.5 5% - - 12.7 5%
AU equities - - 13.5 5% - - 12.7 5%
Euro equities 5.2 1.9% 13.5 5% 8.3 3.3% 25.4 10%
US equities 18.0 6.7% 27.0 10% 18.7 7.4% 25.4 10%
Emerging markets equities 8.8 3.3% 27.0 10% 7.9 3.1% 25.4 10%
Property - - 27.0 10% 165.4 65.2% 50.7 20%
Alternative assets 35.1 13.0% 81.1 30% 41.7 16.4% 76.1 30% Fund Value $270.2 100% $270.2 100% $253.6 100% $253.6 100%
8 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE REVENUE & EXPENSES FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
Note Actual Budget Actual 2015/16 2015/16 2014/15
Revenue Non-exchange Advisory management fees charged to NPDC 498,080 1,407,000 1,253,143 Grant - - 60,000 Exchange Management fees charged to TLC 1,427,554 - - Directors fees received from VDL - - 53,610 Interest revenue 1,428 - 1,247 Gain on sale of asset 170 - - Total revenue 1,927,232 1,407,000 1,368,000
Expenditure Personnel costs 2 1,195,892 609,000 683,868 Other expenses 3 731,340 798,000 684,132 Total expenses 1,927,232 1,407,000 1,368,000
Surplus/(deficit) before tax - - -
Income tax expense 4 - - - Surplus/(deficit) after tax - - -
Other comprehensive revenue and expenses - - - Total comprehensive revenue and expenses - - -
Total comprehensive revenue and expenses attributable to: New Plymouth District Council - 100% - - -
Explanations of major variances against budget are provided in note 18.
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
9 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION AS AT 30 JUNE 2016
Note Actual Actual 2015/16 2014/15 Assets Current assets Cash and cash equivalents 5 71,189 71,827 Debtors and other receivables 6 1,874,609 308,638 Prepayments 3,913 - Tax receivable 885 833 GST refund due 4,302 7,399 Total current assets 1,954,898 388,697
Non-Current assets Property, plant and equipment 7 9,222 8,364 Total non-current assets 9,222 8,364
Total assets 1,964,119 397,061
Liabilities Current liabilities Creditors and other payables 8 1,567,407 186,422 Employee entitlements 9 336,712 210,639 Related party advance 12 60,000 - Total current liabilities 1,964,119 397,061
Total liabilities 1,964,119 397,061
Net assets - -
Equity Accumulated funds 10 - - Share capital 10 - -
Total equity - -
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
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10 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
Note Actual Actual 2015/16 2014/15
Balance at 1 July - - Surplus/(deficit) for the year - - Other comprehensive revenue and expenses - - Balance at 30 June 10 - -
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
11 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED STATEMENT OF CASHFLOWS FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2016
Note Actual Actual 2015/16 2014/15 Cash flows from operating activities Receipts from New Plymouth District Council 1,787,218 1,343,773 Directors fees received - 53,610 Interest received 1,376 1,247 Payments to suppliers, employees and directors (1,847,476) (1,330,578) Goods and services tax (net) 3,097 5,185 Net cash from operating activities (55,786) 73,237
Cash flows from investing activities Purchase of property, plant and equipment (5,022) (5,797) Gain on sale of asset 170 - (4,852) (5,797)
Cash flows from financing activities Advance received from NPDC 60,000 - Net cash from financing activities 60,000 -
Net Increase/(Decrease) in cash, cash equivalents - - and bank overdrafts (638) 67,438
Cash, cash equivalents and bank overdrafts 71,827 4,388 at the beginning of the year Cash, cash equivalents and bank overdrafts at the end of the year 5 71,189 71,827
The accompanying notes form part of these financial statements.
12 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
1 STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTING POLICIES
REPORTING ENTITY
Taranaki Investment Management Limited (the Company) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the New Plymouth District Council and is a Council Controlled Organisation as defined in section 6 of the Local Government Act 2002. The Company is incorporated and domiciled in New Zealand.
Rather than making a financial return, the primary objective of Taranaki Investment Management Limited is to provide advisory services to the New Plymouth District Council, in relation to the Council's Perpetual Investment Fund (PIF) and other equity investments, when requested. Accordingly, the Company is classified as a Public Benefit Entity for the purposes of PBE standards.
The financial statements of the company are for the year ended 30 June 2016. The financial statements were authorised for issue by the Board on 28 September, 2016.
BASIS OF PREPARATION
Statement of compliance
The financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis and the accounting policies have been applied consistently throughout the period.
The financial statements of the Company have been prepared in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 1993, the Financial Reporting Act 1993 and the Local Government Act 2002, which includes the requirement to comply with New Zealand generally accepted accounting practice (NZ GAAP).
These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with PBE standards with reduced disclosure requirements (Tier 2). The company qualifies for Tier 2 reporting on the basis that it is not publicly accountable and it is not considered large under the PBE accounting standards.
The financial statements have been prepared on a historical costs basis, are presented in New Zealand dollars and all values are rounded to the nearest dollar. The functional currency of the Company is New Zealand dollars.
Application of new and revised accounting standards, interpretations and amendments.
There have been no new or revised accounting standards, interpretations and amendments effective during the period which have a material impact on the Company's accounting policies or disclosures.
13 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of the significant accounting policies, adopted by the company, in the preparation of these financial statements.
Revenue
Revenue is measured at the fair value of consideration received or receivable. Revenue is recognised in the period which the company provides the related services.
Interest Income
Interest income is recognised using the effective interest method.
Leases
Operating Lease An operating lease is a lease that does not transfer substantially all the risks and rewards incidental to ownership of an asset. Under an operating lease, lease payments are recognised as an expense on a straight line basis over the term of the lease in the Statement of Comprehensive Revenue and Expenses.
Goods and services tax
The financial statements have been prepared exclusive of Goods and Services Tax (GST), with the exception of receivables and payables, which are stated inclusive of GST.
The net amount of GST, recoverable from or payable to the Inland Revenue Department (IRD), is included as part of receivables or payables, in the statement of financial position.
The net amount of GST, paid to or received from the IRD, is classified as an operating cash flow, in the statement of cash flows.
Income Tax
Income tax expense is the aggregate of current period movements, in relation to current and deferred tax. Current tax is the amount of income tax payable, based on the taxable surplus for the current year, plus any adjustments to income tax payable in respect of prior years.
14 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The current tax is calculated using tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at balance date.
Deferred tax is the amount of income tax payable or recoverable in future periods, in relation to temporary differences and unused tax losses. Temporary tax differences are differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities in the financial statements and the corresponding tax bases used in the computation of taxable surplus.
Deferred tax is measured at the tax rates that are expected to apply when the asset is realised or the liability is settled, based on tax rates (and tax laws) that have been enacted or substantively enacted at balance date. The measurement of deferred tax reflects the tax consequences that would follow from the manner in which the group expects to recover or settle the carrying amount of its assets and liabilities.
Deferred tax liabilities are generally recognised for all taxable temporary differences. Deferred tax assets are recognised to the extent that it is probable that taxable surpluses will be available against which the deductible temporary differences or tax losses can be utilised.
Current and deferred tax is recognised against the surplus or deficit for the period, except to the extent that it relates to items recognised in other comprehensive income or equity.
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand and deposits held at call with banks with original maturities of three months or less.
Debtors and other receivables
Debtors and other receivables are recorded at face value less any provision for impairment.
Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment is shown at cost, less accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.
Additions: The cost of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognised as an asset only when it is probable that service potential associated with the item will flow to the Company and the cost of the item can be measured reliably. In most instances, an item of property, plant and equipment is initially recognised at its cost. Where an asset is acquired at no cost, or for a nominal cost, it is recognised at its fair value when control over the asset is obtained.
15 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Depreciation: Depreciation is provided on a straight line basis on all property, plant and equipment at rates that will write-off the cost of the assets to their estimated residual values over their useful lives. The useful lives and associated depreciation rates of major classes of assets have been estimated as follows:
Computer equipment - 2.5 years (40%) Office furnishings - 10 years (10%)
The residual value and useful life of an asset are reviewed, and adjusted if applicable, at each financial year end.
Creditors and other payables
Short-term creditors and other payables are recorded at their face value.
Employee entitlements
Short-term employee entitlements Employee benefits expected to be settled within 12 months of balance date are measured at nominal values, based on accrued entitlements, at current rates of pay.
These include salaries and wages accrued up to balance an accrual for performance bonuses at balance date, and annual leave earned to, but not yet taken at balance date.
Budget figures
The budget figures are those approved by the Directors at the beginning of the year. The budget figures have been prepared in accordance with NZ GAAP, using accounting policies that are consistent with those adopted in preparing these financial statements.
Critical accounting estimates and assumptions
In preparing these financial statements, the Company has made estimates and assumptions concerning the future. These estimates and assumptions may differ from the actual results.
Estimates and assumptions are continually evaluated, and are based on historical experience and other factors, including expectations of future events that are believed to be reasonable under the circumstances. There have been no estimates and/or assumptions that have a significant risk of causing a material adjustment to the value of assets and liabilities, with the next financial year.
Foreign Currency Transactions
Transactions in foreign currency are translated at the foreign exchange rate ruling at the date of the transaction. Monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies at the balance sheet date are translated to NZD at the foreign exchange rate ruling at that date. Foreign exchange differences arising on translation are recognised in the statement of comprehensive revenue and expenses. Non-monetary assets and liabilities that are measured in terms of historical cost in a foreign currency are translated using the exchange rate at the date of the transaction. Non-monetary assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies that are stated at fair value are translated to NZD at foreign exchange rates ruling at the dates the fair value was determined.
Rounding differences
Some rounding difference may occur in the financial statements due to rounding cents to the dollar.
16 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Actual Actual 2015/16 2014/15
2 Personnel costs
Salaries and wages 1,003,374 617,413 Increase/(decrease) in employee entitlements 126,073 28,132 Kiwisaver costs 66,445 38,323 Total personnel costs 1,195,892 683,868
3 Other expenses
Audit fees for financial statements 10,323 12,258 Consulting costs and other professional services fees 18,330 13,248 Custodial fees 100,000 100,000 Directors fees 335,000 319,968 Directors travel and expenses 43,288 53,912 NPDC services - administration 3,000 2,250 NPDC services - accounting 41,000 30,750 NPDC services - information services 13,322 12,000 Office rental 26,942 22,668 Overheads and other general expenses 37,374 23,435 Staff travel and expenses 98,597 90,295 Depreciation 4,163 3,347 Total other expenses 731,340 684,132
4 Income tax expense
Surplus/(deficit) before tax - - Tax at 28% - - Plus/(less) tax effect of: Non deductible expenditure - - Non-taxable income - - Deferred tax adjustments - - Tax expense - -
17 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Actual Actual 2015/16 2014/15 5 Cash and cash equivalents
Bank current account 70,737 71,013 Petty cash 452 814 Total cash and cash equivalents 71,189 71,827
The carrying value of cash at bank and petty cash approximates their fair value.
6 Debtors and other receivables
New Plymouth District Council 447,055 308,638 Tasmanian Land Company 1,427,554 - Total debtors and other receivables 1,874,609 308,638
Debtors and other receivables are non-interest bearing. Therefore, the carrying value of debtors and other receivables approximates their fair value. All current debtors are for non-exchange revenue of $447,055 and exchange revenue of $1,427,554.
The ageing profile of receivables at year end is detailed below: Not past due 1,874,609 308,638 Total debtors and other receivables 1,874,609 308,638
7 Property, plant and equipment
Cost Opening Balance 27,503 21,706 Additions 5,022 5,797 Disposals during the year (6,267) - Closing Balance 26,258 27,503
Accumulated depreciation and impairment losses Opening Balance 19,140 15,793 Depreciation expense 4,163 3,347 Depreciation adjustments (6,267) - Closing Balance 17,036 19,140
Carrying amount 9,222 8,364
There are no restrictions over the title of the Company's property, plant and equipment; nor is any pledged as security for liabilities.
18 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Actual Actual 2015/16 2014/15
8 Creditors and other payables
Exchange Trade payables 542 18,810 Related party payables 1,556,924 149,849 Audit fee accrual 9,942 9,766 Other accrued expenses - 7,997 Total creditors and other payables 1,567,407 186,422
Creditors and other payables are non-interest bearing and are settled on 30-day terms. Therefore, the carrying value of creditors and other payables approximates their fair value. All creditors and payables are for exchange expenses.
9 Employee entitlements
Annual leave 207,981 110,639 Accrued salaries and wages 128,731 100,000 Total employee entitlements 336,712 210,639
10 Equity
Number of authorised shares 1,000 1,000 Number of shares issued but not fully paid 1,000 1,000
19 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Actual Actual 2015/16 2014/15 11 Operating lease commitments
Not later than one year 20,374 22,672 Later than one year and not later than five years - 20,374 Total operating commitments 20,374 43,046
The company leases their office area from the New Plymouth District Council, at a cost of $20,374 per annum (exclusive of GST). The rent and the agreement are to be reviewed every three years, with the next renewal date being 30 June 2017.
12 Related parties
As the sole shareholder, the New Plymouth District Council is deemed to be a related party of Taranaki Investment Management Limited and Tasmanian Land Company (TLC).
At 30 June 2016, the outstanding balances with New Plymouth District Council are as follows:
Balance receivable from New Plymouth District Council 447,055 308,638
Balance payable to New Plymouth District Council 1,556,924 149,849 Related party advance 60,000 - 1,616,924 149,849
During the 2015/16 financial year the Council advanced TIML $60,000 to be repaid at a future date. The advance does not incur interest on the principal.
20 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
12 Related parties continued
In the year ending 30 June 2016, the following transactions occurred between the New Plymouth District Council and Taranaki Investment Management Limited:
2015/16 2014/15
Services provided by the New Plymouth District Council 57,322 45,000 Office rental paid to the New Plymouth District Council 26,942 22,668 84,264 67,668
Advisory services provided to the New Plymouth District Council 498,080 1,253,143 Grant received - 60,000 498,080 1,313,143
In the year ending 30 June 2015 TIML received income from The Van Diemen's Land Company (VDL), a subsidiary of Tasman Farms Limited (TFL), itself a subsidiary of the Council. The Chief Executive of TIML was a Director of TFL, therefore VDL is deemed to be a related party of TIML. During the 2015/16 year the Chief Executive of TIML was no longer a Director of VDL.
The outstanding balances with The Van Diemens Land Company are as follows:
Balance receivable from The TLC Group 1,427,554 -
The following transactions occurred between The Van Diemens Land Company and Taranaki Investment Management Limited:
Directors fees charged to The Van Diemens Land Company - 53,610 Management fees charged to The TLC Group 1,427,554 -
13 Remuneration
For the year ending 30 June 2016, the remuneration paid to key management personnel was $1,121,676 (2015: $751,837). The increase in remuneration relates to performance incentives paid in relation to the sale of Tasmanian Land Company assets. The FTE is equivalent to 5 (2015: 6). Key management personnel includes the Board of Directors and Chief Executive. Directors Fees K Sutton 125,000 100,000 J Dale 70,000 64,246 J Tuuta 70,000 64,246 E Gill 64,000 - C Norgate 6,000 69,568 S Maier - 21,908 $335,000 $319,968
14 Financial instruments
Cash and receivables Cash and cash equivalents 71,189 71,827 Debtors and other receivables 1,874,609 376,635 Total cash and receivables 1,945,797 448,462
Financial liabilities Creditors and other payables 1,567,407 186,422 Related party advance 60,000 - Total financial liabilities 1,627,407 186,422
21 TARANAKI INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LIMITED NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
15 Capital commitments
There are no capital commitments at 30 June 2016 (2015: nil).
16 Contingent assets and liabilities
There are no contingent assets or contingent liabilities at 30 June 2016 (2015: nil).
17 Events after the balance sheet date On 16 August 2016, the New Plymouth District Council passed a resolution to move the management of the Perpetual Investment Fund to a full outsourced model. This will result in the renaming and repurposing of the company over the next financial year. As a result the Company is expecting to incur redundancy and other employment costs of $145,425 which has not been provided for in the financial statements. On the same day NPDC approved a Directors Fees pool of $335,000 per annum with effect from 1 July 2015. Accruals have been included to recognise the increased director fee level and the allocation between Directors for the year to 30 June 2016 as was agreed by the Board on 22 September 2016 as recorded in note 13. (2015: nil).
18 Explanations for major variances against budget
Statement of comprehensive income: Revenue is over budget due to advisory services provided to Tasmanian Land Company which has generated revenue for TIML resulting in a lower net NPDC Management Fee. A schedule of variances follows:
Actual Budget Variance Advisory services rendered to TLC Group 1,427,554 - 1,427,554 Other Revenue 1,598 - 1,598 1,429,152 - 1,429,152 Expenses General operating expenses 135,971 145,000 9,029 Directors Fees and expenses 378,288 380,000 1,712 Directors recruitment - 20,000 20,000 Professional Advice 18,330 46,000 27,670 Audit fees 10,323 15,000 4,677 Custodial costs 100,000 100,000 - NPDC Services and Rental 84,264 92,000 7,736 Depreciation 4,163 - (4,163) Salaries and wages 1,195,892 609,000 (586,892) 1,927,232 1,407,000 (520,232)
Net NPDC Management fee charge 498,080 1,407,000 908,920
Staff salaries and wages are over budget as a result of payment of long term incentive payments arising from the sale of Tasmanian Land Company. In addition, incentive and other accruals increased for the current year. However, salaries and wages and other expenses were offset by the recovery of $1,427,554 in management fees on the sale of TLC for the year, with the resultant management fee being $908,920 favourable to budget.
Expenditure on Consulting and Professional Services which includes general consulting, marketing and communications and reporting and monitoring expenditure was also tightly controlled within budget.
22 1 SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT ITEM E
APPLICATION OF THE OPERATING SURPLUS FROM THE 2015/16 FINANCIAL YEAR – SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT PREPARED BY: Philip Armstrong (Manager Business Services) TEAM: Business Services APPROVED BY: Alan Bird (Chief Financial Officer) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 28 September 2016 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 7243803
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is to consider how the general rate operating surplus from the 2015/16 financial year of $2 million should be allocated.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report the Council approve the allocation of the general rate operating cash surplus of $2 million as follows: a) $200k Taranaki Economic Development Strategy b) $1.72 million to repayment of borrowing c) $80k Procurement of a suitable firefighting appliance
AUDIT AND RISK SUBCOMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION That having considered all matters raised in the report the Council approve the allocation of the general rate operating cash surplus of $2 million as follows: a) $200k Taranaki Economic Development Strategy b) $1.6 million to repayment of borrowing c) $200k for Community Grants Funding
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Due to a variety of factors explained within the following report the Council has made a general rate operating surplus of $2 million, less than 1.5% of expenditure. As per the Treasury Management policy the Council has the option to use the surplus to further decrease the PIF release, repay debt or apply against rates over the next three years.
The amended Recommendation for Consideration incorporates the Council resolution (27 September 2016) to contribute $80,000 to the Taranaki Rural Fire Authority for the procurement of a suitable firefighting application for the New Plymouth District.
Council Tuesday 4 October 2016 2 ITEM E SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT
OPTIONS A full options assessment is contained within the original reports (ECM 7221877 and ECM 7243799).
Option 1 Apply the general rate operating surplus of $2 million as follows:
a) $200k Taranaki Economic Development Strategy
b) $1.72 million to repayment of borrowing
c) $80k Procurement of a suitable firefighting appliance
Option 2 Apply the general rate operating surplus to the repayment of debt.
Council Tuesday 4 October 2016 1 ITEM E
APPLICATION OF THE OPERATING SURPLUS FROM THE 2015/16 FINANCIAL YEAR PREPARED BY: Philip Armstrong (Manager Business Services) TEAM: Business Services APPROVED BY: Alan Bird (Chief Financial Officer) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 28 September 2016 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 7243799
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is to consider how the general rate operating surplus from the 2015/16 financial year of $2 million should be allocated.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report the Council approve the allocation of the general rate operating cash surplus of $2 million as follows: a) $200k Taranaki Economic Development Strategy b) $1.8 million to repayment of borrowing
AUDIT AND RISK SUBCOMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION That having considered all matters raised in the report the Council approve the allocation of the general rate operating cash surplus of $2 million as follows: a) $200k Taranaki Economic Development Strategy b) $1.6 million to repayment of borrowing c) $200k for Community Grants Funding
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is of some importance. This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Apply the general rate operating surplus of $2 million as follows: Options a. $200k Taranaki Economic Development Strategy b. $1.8 million to repayment of borrowing 2. Apply the general rate operating surplus to the repayment of debt.
Council Friday 7 October 2016 2 ITEM E
COMPLIANCE The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are, the Affected persons general public
Recommendation This report recommends option 1 Long-Term Plan / How the Council chooses to apply the surplus will potentially have Annual Plan some impact on future plans. Implications Significant Policy and Plan There are no inconsistencies with current policies and plans Inconsistencies
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Council is a significant organisation with budgeted operating expenditure of approximately $130 million. There are many business units that make up the Council operation and there is a large degree of complexity within the Council. Due to this size and complexity actual financial results will always vary to some degree from original budgets.
Due to a variety of factors explained within the report the Council has made a general rate operating surplus of $2 million, less than 1.5% of expenditure. As per the Treasury Management policy the Council has the option to use the surplus to further decrease the PIF release, repay debt or apply against rates over the next three years.
This report recommends applying the surplus to the update of a Taranaki Economic Development Strategy with the balance to be applied to the repayment of debt.
BACKGROUND The Council is a significant organisation with budgeted operating expenditure of approximately $130 million. There are many business units that make up the Council operation and there is a large degree of complexity within the Council. Due to this size and complexity actual financial results will always vary to some degree from original budgets.
Operationally the Council also performed well with a strong focus on cost control throughout the year. The continuation of vacancy management combined with a number of vacancies, meant lower personnel costs. There was also considerable savings in interest costs due to lower than budgeted interest rates and lower borrowing due to the timing of capital expenditure.
The accounts prepared for the annual report are prepared using generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and include a number of valuations relating to investments, assets, interest rate swaps etc which impact our accounting result. After adjusting for these non cash items and isolating the targeted rate performance and accounting for carry forward budgets the Council had a net general rate operating surplus over budget of $2 million.
Council Friday 7 October 2016 3 ITEM E
As per the Treasury Management policy the Council has the option to use the surplus to further decrease the PIF release, repay debt or apply against rates over the next three years.
As part of the section 17a review of Venture Taranaki Trust one of the key recommendations was that an update of the Taranaki Economic Development Strategy was required. The contribution from New Plymouth District Council is expected to be approximately $200,000. The other three Taranaki councils along with MIBE will also contribute to the development of the strategy. Due to the timing of the report this amount was not include in the current year’s budget. It is recommended that this be funded from the surplus.
Due to the work done for the preparation and completion of the 2015/25 LTP the PIF release is now at a sustainable level of 3.3% of the fund, so it is the officers recommendation to apply the surplus against debt or used to help reduce the impact of rates.
SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT The Annual Report is an audited record of the Council’s performance over the previous year and is therefore a historical document, and has been assessed as having low significance in terms of the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.
OPTIONS Option 1 Apply the general rate operating surplus of $2 million as follows:
a. $200k Taranaki Economic Development Strategy b. $1.8 million to repayment of borrowing
Option 2 Apply the general rate operating surplus to the repayment of debt.
OPTIONS ASSESMENT Risk analysis
There are no significant risks with either option. As the Taranaki Economic Development Strategy is not include in the current year’s budget and has been committed to by Council it would be appropriate to fund this from the surplus.
Community Views
There is likely to be community support for either option.
Recommended Option This report recommends option 1
Council Friday 7 October 2016 4 ITEM E
Council Friday 7 October 2016 1 ITEM F
EXCLUSION OF THE PUBLIC FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE MEETING PREPARED BY: Jan Holdt (Committee Adviser) TEAM: Democratic Services APPROVED BY: Julie Straka (Governance Lead) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 23 September 2016 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 7241770
MATTER This report details items that are recommended should be considered with the public excluded, and the reason for excluding the public.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report, the Council hereby resolves that, pursuant to the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, the public be excluded from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting: a) New Plymouth District Plan – Consent Order to Plan Change PLC13/00040 (Updating Provisions Applying to Waahi Taonga/Sites of Significance to Maori and Archaeological Sites) To enable the Council to consider matters where the information is subject to appeal by a Court or Tribunal, this particular interest being protected by section 48(2)(a)(i) of the Act.
This resolution is made in reliance on Section 48(1)(a) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987.
COMPLIANCE This matter is of some importance. Significance
This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
Options 1. Exclude the public.
2. Not exclude the public.
Recommendation This report recommends option one (1) for addressing the matter. Long-Term Plan / Annual Plan There are no budget considerations. Implications
Council Friday 7 October 2016 2 ITEM F
COMPLIANCE Significant Policy and Plan This report is consistent with Council’s Policy and Plans. Inconsistencies
BACKGROUND This report details items that are recommended should be considered with the public excluded, and the reason for excluding the public.
SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT In accordance with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy, this matter has been assessed as having some importance because the exclusion of the public is a statutory procedure that will have a little or no impact on the Council’s strategic issues.
OPTIONS Option 1 Pursuant to the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987, good reason exists to exclude the public for consideration of the items listed.
Option 2 The Council can choose to consider these matters in an open meeting.
Risk Analysis Release of information which meets the statutory tests for withholding (under the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987) may expose the Council to legal, financial or reputational repercussions.
Recommended Option This report recommends option one (1) exclusion of the public for addressing the matter.
Council Friday 7 October 2016