Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee
Meeting 10 10am, 10 December 2018 Room 4.8N, 4th Floor, Bledisloe House, 24 Wellesley Street, Auckland
AGENDA AND MEETING PAPERS
MEMBERS: Mr Paul Downie Chairperson Ms Nicola MacDonald Member Ms Judy Gilbert Member Mr Rodney Ngawaka Member Mr Tony Christiansen Member Ms Catherine Munro Member Ms Kate Waterhouse Member Ms Liane Ngamane Member Vacant Member Vacant Member
1 ACPAC Agenda 10 December 2018 - DOC-5594179 ACPAC Agenda 10 December 2018 DOC-5594179 Needles Point
Aotea Conservation Park Aiguilles Island ´
Miners Head
Te Paparahi
Ahuriri Point
Motairehe Rd Mabeys Rd Waikaro Point Katherine Bay Motairehe
Maunganui Point Kawa Rd Whangapoua Kawa Beach Rakitu Island Mabeys RdWhangapoua Estuary (Arid Island)
Karaka Bay Rd
Port Abercrombie Aotea Rd Okiwi
Port Fitzroy Aotea Rd Motuhaku
Kaikoura Island Harataonga (Selwyn Island) Beach Whakatautuna Point Harataonga Rd
Port Fitzroy Kiwiriki Bay
Great Barrier Stony Beach Forest Awana Bay Motutaiko Rangiahua Is.
Gray Rd Broken Islands Palmers Beach Whangaparapara Mahuki Is. Road
Whangaparapara Walter Blackwell Rd Kaitoke Beach Claris
Blind Bay Rd
Okupu Medlands Beach Hauraki WhangaparaparaHarbour Blind Gulf Bay
Medlands Rd
Tryphena Harbour Rd Tryphena
Shoal Bay Rd
Shag Point Rosalie Bay Rd Tryphena Legend Mulberry Schooner Bay Harbour Grove Aotea Conservation Park Road Cape Barrier Rd
0 1 2 4 Kilometres
1 Cape Barrier 2 Part Two—Places
14 Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) Place
Note: In 2013, the Minister of Conservation requested the Department to investigate the reclassification of conservation (stewardship) areas on Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island). The decision to reclassify all 16 stewardship areas (as well as incorporating the Hirakimatā – Kaitoke Swamp Ecological Area and Wairahi Forest Sanctuary Area) to create a 12,109 ha conservation park, and to establish an advisory committee for the park was announced on 20 July 2014. The Aotea Conservation Park will be formally declared in the New Zealand Gazette once required survey work has been completed (anticipated late 2014 – early 2015).
The Department manages more than 16 000 ha on Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) (Great Barrier), which represents approximately 60% of the total land area. The remainder of the island (including offshore islands) is made up of Māori land, private land, and land administered by Auckland Council and other organisations such as the Motu Kaikoura Trust (refer to Volume II, Map 7.10). For the purposes of this CMS, this Place is made up of all areas of public conservation lands and waters on Great Barrier and nearby Rakitu Island (Arid Island) (Rakitu) (Table 3). This Place also encompasses advocacy over Great Barrier, particularly with respect to coastal development, protection of biodiversity values, outstanding landscapes and natural character.
Table 3: Public conservation lands and waters of Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) Place
ISLAND LOCATION SIZE (HA) LAND STATUS (NUMBER OF LAND UNITS)
Great Barrier 100 km northeast of Auckland 28 500* Conservation Area (16) City and 17 km north of the Ecological Area (1) Coromandel Peninsula. Sanctuary Area (1) Marginal Strip (13) Government Purpose Reserve (2) Historic Reserve (2) Recreation Reserve (12) Scenic Reserve (6)
Rakitu 5 km off the east coast of 253 Scenic Reserve Great Barrier.
* Great Barrier is not wholly administered by the Department. This figure represents the total area of the island.
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14.1 Description Great Barrier, which is situated to the northeast of Auckland at the entrance to the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana, is the largest island offthe coast of the North Island of New Zealand and home to 88518 residents. The island is one of the last great wild areas in Auckland and provides a unique visitor experience. Rakitu is situated approximately 5 km off the east coast of Great Barrier. The landscape of Great Barrier is characterised by forest-covered ranges, much of which is regenerating and of volcanic origin; farmland and settlements; and a maze of bays, islands and indented harbours. In the island’s centre, spectacular bluffs and ridges rise to the highest peak, Hirakimatā (Mount Hobson) (627 m). The coastline is relatively undeveloped. Coastal features of note include the tidal inlet, estuary and dune systems of Whangapoua, Awana and Kaitoke, the spectacular drowned valley system of Port Fitzroy, and the sea cliffs off the northwest and southeast coasts of the island. Along with Rakitu and other small islands and groups of rocks along its coast, Great Barrier forms a separate ecological district. The island is well known for its extensive indigenous habitats of outstanding significance, including kauri forests, shrubland associated with rhylotic rocks and areas of pōhutukawa-dominated forest. Threatened fauna found on Great Barrier include: thirteen species of lizard, including niho taniwha/chevron skink, which is found only on Great Barrier and Te Hauturu-o-Toi/Little Barrier Island tāiko/black petrel, which nest principally on Hirakimatā and other high points tītī/Cook’s petrel stronghold populations of North Island kākā (Nestor meridionalis septentrionalis) and mohopereru/banded rail the only island population of pepeketua/Hochstetter’s frog. Te Paparahi is a forested area comprising most of the northern part of Great Barrier. While regenerating kānuka (Kunzea ericoides) covers large parts of Te Paparahi, there are also fine stands of taraire (Beilschmiedia tarairi), tawa (Beilschmiedia tawa), kauri (Agathis australis) and kohekohe (Dysoxylum spectabile). It has very high wildlife values, with tāiko/black petrel, niho taniwha/chevron skink and pepeketua/Hochstetter’s frog present. It is also highly significant to Ngāti Rehua. A remnant population of North Island kōkako (Callaeas cinerea) was removed from Te Paparahi in 1994, and Ngāti Rehua and the community aspire to have North Island kōkako returned to this area with the support of the Department. An important but challenging step towards achieving this would be establishing a sufficiently large area, incorporating Te Paparahi, in which introduced predators could be controlled to low numbers and North Island kōkako could thrive. Great Barrier is a stronghold for one of New Zealand’s rarest ducks, pāteke/brown teal, being home to over 60% of New Zealand’s population. Okiwi Recreation Reserve, a large farmed area with many wetlands, streams and small patches of remnant vegetation, supports large numbers of pāteke/brown teal. Intensive management and monitoring is undertaken in the reserve in an effort to protect this species. Adjacent to this reserve, Whangapoua estuary is one of the least modified wetlands in New Zealand, and one of the most valuable for wildlife for its size. The extensive sand dunes of Whangapoua Beach and estuary, which abut the Okiwi Recreation Reserve, are a haven for coastal birds such as tūturiwhatu/northern New Zealand dotterel, kuaka/bar-tailed godwit, ngutu-parore /wrybill, pūweto/spotless crake and mātātā/North Island fernbird.
18 Results of 2013 Census from Statistics New Zealand website: QuickStats about Great Barrier Island. www.stats.govt.nz (accessed 8 August 2014).
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Hirakimatā in the centre of the island is of special significance to Ngāti Rehua. In addition to being one of the principal nesting sites for tāiko/black petrel and tītī/Cook’s petrel, it has a unique, unmodified upper montane forest of kauri, Lagarostrobos colensoi and manoao/ Kirk’s pine (Halocarpus kirkii), as well as endemic shrubs such as Great Barrier Island kānuka (Kunzea sinclairii). Kaitoke Swamp to the south is the largest wetland in Auckland, and contains orchids, mātātā/North Island fernbird, pūweto/spotless crake and matuku/ Australasian bittern. At least 75 species of regionally and nationally threatened vascular plants, including the endemic prostrate kānuka (Kunzea ericoides var. microflora) and Great Barrier tree daisy (Olearia allomii), are present on Great Barrier, making it one of the richest areas for plant biodiversity in Auckland. Great Barrier contains the largest area of forest in New Zealand that is known to be possum- free. Mustelids, Norway rats (Rattus norvegicus), and hedgehogs (Erinaceus europaeus) are also absent. However, a number of pest animals still exist, including ship rats (Rattus rattus), kiore, mice (Mus musculus), rabbits (Oryctolagus caniculus), feral cats (Felis catus) and feral pigs (Sus scrofa). Argentine ants (Linepithema humile) which have become established in the southern part of the island also pose a risk to biodiversity values. The community and Auckland Council are leading attempts to eradicate them from the island. Although the island is relatively free of plant pests that impact on vegetation communities, without ongoing control to prevent their establishment they would have the potential to significantly damage high value ecosystems. For example, pampas (Cortaderia selloana), mist flower (Ageratina riparia) and Mexican devil (Ageratina adenophora) are threats to wetlands, where they can change the ecology of the native sedge and rush communities. The eradication or control of pests in areas where significant flora or fauna are threatened is a key priority for conservation management, as is the prevention of entry of further plant and animal pest species. In many areas, this will require the control of pests in cooperation with adjoining landowners and managers. A number of community groups and individuals are actively involved in restoration and pest management projects on Great Barrier and offshore islands. A significant proportion of the community has expressed a long-term aspiration to remove animal pests from Great Barrier. Following the eradication of feral goats and fallow deer in 2006 and 2009, respectively, the next significant step would be to eradicate rats and feral cats, both of which are preventing the reintroduction of a number of threatened species and impacting on forest health. Their removal would be expensive and pose significant technical challenges to be successful, including the fact that the island is inhabited and has widely dispersed communities; the size of the island relative to other islands on which successful eradications have been carried out; and the differing community views on eradication methods and the short-term impacts of them. Ongoing biosecurity measures would be required as reestablishment would quickly undo any ecological gains that had been made. Tangata whenua, many of whom live on Great Barrier today, can trace their association with the island back over many centuries. The island has been inhabited for much of the last 700 years, resulting in a unique assemblage of cultural and historic sites and associations. Evidence of that occupation can be seen in the island’s numerous archaeological sites that occur around much of the accessible coastline. Some of these sites have been dated to the earliest period of Polynesian settlement, and provide information on the past ways of life, as well as the environment and food sources. The Department actively manages three pā associated with this Māori occupation. The European history of Great Barrier illustrates well the exploitative phase of the colonial economy, based on successive forms of resource extraction, such as timber harvesting, early
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farming, mining and whaling. Its culture and history are reflected in an excellent range of historic sites on public conservation land. The Department actively manages five of these sites, comprising mining remains at Miners Head and Oreville, SS Wairarapa graves, the Kauri Timber Company sawmill at Whangaparapara, and the site of the Kaiaraara driving dams. Many walking tracks on Great Barrier follow old kauri milling tramway routes, and this close association between the recreational facilities and historic resources means that there are considerable opportunities for interpretation. The richness of the natural and historic heritage on Great Barrier makes it a priority to ensure that public conservation land is appropriately classified to protect its values. At present, there are 53 differently named areas with eight different classifications under the Conservation Act 1987 and Reserves Act 1977. All areas of public conservation land currently held under the Conservation Act 1987 (excluding marginal strips) are to be incorporated under a single classification as a conservation park. The Hirakimatā- Kaitoke Swamp Ecological Area and Wairahi Forest Sanctuary Area will retain their existing protected area statuses while also being included within the conservation park. Reclassification of reserves held under the Reserves Act 1977 was not within the scope of this process. Visitors are attracted to Great Barrier by its relatively undeveloped landscape, and the combination of natural, cultural and historic heritage, and the community. The island offers a wide range of opportunities for recreation, outdoor education, eco-tourism and scientific study. Great Barrier is one of the few places in Auckland where visitors can enjoy a recreational experience in a backcountry setting that is distant from the influence of the city. There are over 100 km of tracks on Great Barrier, from short walks, such as the popular Kaitoke Hot Springs Track, to challenging multi-day tramping tracks through the steep interior of the island. There are also six coastal campgrounds and two huts: one located in the lower Kaiaraara valley and the other on the southern side of Mt Heale. There is considerable potential to further develop Great Barrier as a significant recreation and tourism destination. The Department has responded by developing a multi-day walk, the Aotea Track, which allows visitors to experience the Kaitoke wetland and hot springs, Mt Heale, Hirakimatā, sites of the historic kauri dams, and kauri forest. Increasing effort on species recovery and animal pest control, particularly on Hirakimatā, would greatly enhance this experience and further raise awareness of the special values of the island. Initiatives such as the Aotea Track have the potential to grow the local economy by increasing the number of visitors to the island and the time people spend on the island. Te Paparahi is managed as a remote visitor management zone, with only a single track providing access to Tataweka, the highest point in the northern part of the island. Small numbers of kayakers and boaties also access Te Paparahi’s remote bays for day visits and camping. Some helicopter landings associated with positioning recreational fishers (known as heli-fishing) occur on rock stacks, platforms and islets that are connected to but lie outside the boundaries of Te Paparahi. Helicopter landings in this area need to be managed to ensure they do not impact on natural quiet and remoteness, or pose a biosecurity risk by introducing unwanted pests. The Department intends to continue to manage the area for its remote values in order to protect natural, cultural and historic values, which will increase over time as animal pest control enhances the recovery of indigenous species. This will be achieved by monitoring the impacts of recreational use, and seeking the addition of those exposed parts of the common marine and coastal area adjacent to the conservation area to Te Paparahi. Mountain biking is permitted on all formed roads on public conservation land on Great Barrier, as well as on the Forest Road track. The Department, in collaboration with Auckland Council, intends to expand the opportunities for mountain biking on the island.
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The local economy presents a number of challenges for people living on Great Barrier, including high transport and energy costs, and a small permanent population base. The number of residents is seasonal, swelling hugely during the summer when absentee property owners come over for holidays. The natural resources on the island mean that the local economy is principally resource-based and reliant on the visitor industry, as well as on limited farming, fishing and marine farming, together with related services. Off-island earnings and retirement income are also important. A number of concessions exist for guiding operations on Great Barrier. There is considerable potential for increased tourism; however, constraints to this industry include high transport costs, the seasonal nature of the visitor industry and the lack of local capital. In consultation with tangata whenua and local communities, the Department will explore ways to identify further concession opportunities. Potential opportunities include, but are not limited to, facilities and services supporting the Aotea multi-day track, specialist guiding tours including wildlife viewing, appreciation of the island’s cultural and historic past, and mountain bike tours. The provision of improved information and interpretation would enhance understanding and support for conservation values, and assist with the development of economic opportunities for the island. There is considerable scope for enhancing the cooperative management approach with other agencies, tangata whenua and the local community.
RAKITU ISLAND (ARID ISLAND) Rakitu is an isolated island that has great potential for ecological restoration. About half the island is in pasture, with the remainder containing a mix of kānuka/mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) scrub and mixed broadleaf forest. Stock damage to the forest understorey is extensive. However, the island is free from all introduced predators except rodents and cats. The island is home to a population of North Island weka (Gallirallus australis greyi), and forest birds such as kererū/New Zealand pigeon (Hemiphaga novaeseelandiae), ruru/ morepork (Ninox novaeseelandiae), and pīpīwharauroa/shining cuckoo (Chrysococcyx lucidas) are also easily seen. Kororā/little penguin, ōi/grey-faced petrel (northern muttonbird) and tara/white-fronted tern (Sterna striata) roost and breed around the coast. Rakitu was the home of Rehua, the founding ancestor of Ngāti Wai/Ngāti Rehua. The island was once permanently occupied by Māori, who cleared the forest from the central valley and established extensive cultivations. The many archaeological sites support the traditional accounts and provide tangible evidence of the early occupation of Rakitu by Māori. The grazing lease on Rakitu expired in 2013 and the Department intends for the ecological restoration of the island to now begin. Because of the absence of most predators, the island could be an ideal place for rat and feral cat eradication and the transfer of threatened species. The range of species able to be transferred would depend on the continuing presence of weka. Under the sale and purchase agreement with the Crown, Rakitu’s former owners and their families will continue to hold life-time rights to use buildings on the island.
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14.2 Outcome, policies and milestones for the Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) Place
14.2.1 OUTCOME Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) lies sentinel at the entrance to the Gulf, with its distinctive and largely unmodified natural landscapes, including wetlands, an estuary and dune systems. The island’s nationally significant ecosystems, habitats and species are protected and thriving in the presence of a resilient and independent resident community that is committed to conservation. The island community has begun the path towards becoming free of animal pests. The community, tangata whenua, Auckland Council and the Department are working cooperatively to eradicate Argentine ants, rats and feral cats from Great Barrier. Zones of intensive species and pest management focused on priority ecosystem units have been created. These actions enhance the island’s status as a safe refuge for threatened and endemic species, which are flourishing and being supplemented by reintroduced species, including the North Island kōkako, which has been returned to Te Paparahi. Historic and cultural heritage, including archaeological sites, are protected and respected in cooperation with tangata whenua and the community. Interpretation brings the island’s natural, historic and cultural values to life, and visitors come away with an enhanced understanding of the history of the island, the period of intensive resource extraction, and its enduring and unique fauna and flora. A constructive relationship between the Department, tangata whenua, the local community and Auckland Council enables the integrated management of Great Barrier and its offshore islands. The Department works with tangata whenua, Auckland Council and the local community to foster conservation initiatives, particularly those that contribute to the goal of a stable island population, and a flourishing and sustainable visitor economy. Accessible by air or sea, Great Barrier attracts increasing numbers of visitors, who enjoy the island’s outstanding scenic beauty, extensive forest habitats, diverse wildlife and rich history. The island provides the greatest range of recreation opportunities in Auckland on land administered by the Department. Opportunities to showcase and explore the island’s values range from short walks to multi-day tramping experiences in settings that range from front country to remote. As a Gateway destination, tramping the Aotea Track across Hirakimatā (Mount Hobson) is promoted as a premier outdoor recreation opportunity in Auckland and the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park. Visitor facilities, recovering threatened species and restored heritage sites facilitate a memorable experience. Visitors are also attracted to the island for the expanded range of mountain-biking opportunities, ranging from seasonal use of existing tracks to purpose-built tracks that the Department or others (under concession) have built in less ecologically sensitive areas. The Department and Auckland Council work cooperatively to extend the track network to better connect recreation opportunities located in different parts of the island, including to popular anchorages. Opportunities for overnight stays in existing coastal campsites and backcountry huts remain. A Limited Supply Concession opportunity to provide visitor accommodation or services using the departmental house at Whangaparapara has been commercially assessed and established. Concessions contribute to a flourishing and sustainable island economy, complement the island’s intrinsic values and enhance the visitor experience of this Place.
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Te Paparahi, which is managed as a remote visitor management zone, offers visitors low- impact recreation activities in a challenging environment with few facilities. Natural quiet prevails, with visitors only encountering aircraft associated with day heli-fishing on rare occasions. The Department works with neighbouring landowners to ensure that coastal aircraft landings are managed to protect the intrinsic and remote recreational values of Te Paparahi. A small number of recreation-based concessions are indistinguishable from independent visitors.
Rakitu Island (Arid Island) Rakitu’s pastoral and regenerating forest landscape is protected and its indigenous vegetation is regenerating in the absence of mammalian predators and stock. The island provides a safe haven for native species and the diversity of native fauna is increasing. Visitors arriving by private boat, kayak or, occasionally, helicopter experience a landscape and wildlife that are thriving from the removal of livestock and mammalian pests, and enjoy the superb vistas and opportunities for even greater solitude than are found on Great Barrier. Visitors are able to choose between day visits or overnight stays in a basic campsite.
14.2.2 POLICIES 14.2.2.1 Actively engage with tangata whenua, Auckland Council, private landowners and the community in conservation management on Great Barrier Island and Rakitu Island by: a) encouraging participation in planning for and carrying out ecological restoration work on public conservation lands; b) encouraging and supporting conservation initiatives that work towards a pest-free status for Great Barrier; c) continuing to support cooperative conservation projects, as well as seeking to establish new initiatives; d) encouraging participation in the protection, promotion and interpretation of places of historic and cultural significance; and e) seeking to phase out grazing on Rakitu Island. 14.2.2.2 Working with tangata whenua, the community, Auckland Council and private land- owners, to control or eradicate high-priority animal and plants pests, focusing on: a) areas where animal and plant pests threaten the highest priority ecosystems, habitats and species, particularly those sites listed in Appendix 4; b) preventing the establishment of new animal and plant pests; and c) Rakitu Island. 14.2.2.3 Enhance wetland habitats in Okiwi basin to benefit pāteke/brown teal and other wetland species. 14.2.2.4 Trial and, if feasible, allow seasonal mountain biking on the Harataonga Coastal Walkway, provided that adverse effects on natural values can be avoided and potential conflict with walkers can be minimised. 14.2.2.5 May develop, or grant concessions to develop, purpose-built, publicly available mountain biking tracks on Great Barrier Island. The criteria in Policy 24.3.2.5 in Part Three should be used when assessing concession applications or departmental proposals to develop purpose-built mountain biking tracks.
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14.2.2.6 Consider options to regulate or formalise camping if unacceptable impacts from informal camping are occurring within Te Paparahi. 14.2.2.7 May allow concessions for horse-riding on the Forest Road outside peak times (Christmas to Easter) when visitors are walking the Aotea Track. The criteria in Policy 24.4.2.2 in Part Three should be used when considering the use of horses. 14.2.2.8 Should not allow aircraft landings on public conservation land on Great Barrier Island, except as provided in Policies 14.2.2.9, 14.2.2.10 and 14.2.2.11. 14.2.2.9 Should limit aircraft landings on Okiwi Recreation Reserve to those required for pasture management, in accordance with the criteria in Policy 24.3.4.1 in Part Three. 14.2.2.10 May allow occasional aircraft landings on Rakitu Island Scenic Reserve and in open coastal areas (generally no further than 20 m inland from Mean High Water Springs) of Harataonga Recreation Reserve, Overtons Beach Marginal Strip, Whakatautuna Point Marginal Strip and Harataonga Bay Marginal Strip. Landings should not be allowed adjacent to Overtons Beach during peak visitor periods (from Boxing Day to Waitangi Day and during Easter). The criteria in Policy 24.3.4.1 in Part Three should be used when considering aircraft use. 14.2.2.11 May allow occasional aircraft landings in open coastal areas (generally no further than 20 m inland from Mean High Water Springs) of Te Paparahi Conservation Area (south of Miners Cove and south of Rangiwhakaea Bay only), consistent with the outcome for this Place. The criteria in Policy 24.3.4.1 in Part Three should be used when considering aircraft use.
14.2.3 MILESTONES—OUTPUTS
Completed by the end of Year 3 after CMS approval (2017) 14.2.3.1 Scheduled outputs identified in approved work programmes for the following priority ecosystem units located in this Place: Mount Young and Northern Great Barrier. 14.2.3.2 Identification of sites for intensive pest management to ensure the recovery and persistence of threatened species. 14.2.3.3 Heritage assessments for all actively managed historic sites on Great Barrier Island. 14.2.3.4 Successful eradication of rats from Rakitu Island. 14.2.3.5 Notification in the New Zealand Gazette to reclassify 12,109ha of public conservation land on Great Barrier Island, as identified in the Aotea Conservation Park decision. 14.2.3.6 Report on the technical feasibility of returning kōkako to Great Barrier Island. 14.2.3.7 Establishment of a monitoring programme to assess the effects of camping activity in Te Paparahi.
Completed by the end of Year 5 after CMS approval (2019) 14.2.3.8 Return of North Island kōkako to Te Paparahi. 14.2.3.9 Sustained control of plant pests that disrupt ecosystem processes and threaten indigenous species in Te Paparahi.
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14.2.3.10 Report on the outcome of monitoring programme on the effects of camping activity in Te Paparahi. 14.2.3.11 Mountain biking trial on Harataonga Track, with results of monitoring evaluated and decision made on whether mountain biking use will be permanently allowed.
Completed by the end of Year 10 after CMS approval (2024) 14.2.3.12 Report on the outcomes of monitoring programme and management actions identified to assess changes. 14.2.3.13 Extension of track network to coastal sites. 14.2.3.14 Reintroduction of threatened species to Rakitu Island, subject to restoration and species recovery plans. 14.2.3.15 Report on progress achieved from working collaboratively with Auckland Council and the island community towards protection of the values on conservation land from the effects of pests.
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Terms of Reference and procedures for Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee
Preamble
The Aotea Conservation Park was established in April 2015, covering 12,282ha on Aotea/Great Barrier Island, which is approximately 43% of the island. The Conservation Park is a significant feature of the island and provides a range of cultural, recreation, economic and other opportunities for tangata whenua and the island community.
Tangata whenua and the island community are closely connected to the land within the Conservation Park and have a strong interest in how the park is managed. They supported creation of the park provided that they were able to influence its management through an advisory committee.
The Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee is established under section 56(1) of the Conservation Act 1987. It is appointed by the Minister of Conservation and has an advisory role to the Director-General and officers of the Department of Conservation. It holds no statutory decision-making powers.
Purpose of the Committee
To represent iwi and local community interests and provide advice to the Director-General about the management of the Aotea Conservation Park.
Objectives and functions of the Committee
To provide the Director-General with advice and information to aid management of the Aotea Conservation Park including on the following matters:
(a) Management issues such as threatened species, weed and pest control, restoration, hunting, historic resources, recreation opportunities and visitor facilities; (b) Funding priorities; (c) Implementation of the Auckland Conservation Management Strategy 2014-2024 and succeeding documents; (d) Opportunities for growing conservation outcomes in the Conservation Park and engaging tangata whenua, the island community and others in that work; (e) Supporting new and existing partnerships; (f) Commenting on applications for statutory consents including concessions and permits; (g) Advocating for the Conservation Park; (h) Provision of public information and education about the Conservation Park; (i) Fostering community support for the park including community understanding of iwi associations and values related to the Conservation Park; and (j) Any other matters pertinent to management of the Conservation Park.
docDM-1590009
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Membership of the Committee
The Committee shall comprise up to ten (10) members representing tangata whenua and other local community groups with key interests in the Conservation Park.
Fifty per cent (50%) of the appointed members shall represent tangata whenua to recognise the relationship established under the Treaty of Waitangi between Māori and the Crown. The other fifty per cent (50%) of the seats will provide for representation from other local community interests.
Chairperson
The Minister of Conservation reserves the right to appoint the Chairperson of the Committee. If the Minister chooses not to exercise that right, then the Chairperson shall be elected by simple majority of those members present at the next meeting when an election is required.
The Chairperson shall preside over all meetings of the Committee at which he/she is present. If the Chairperson is absent from any meeting, the Committee members present shall appoint one of their number to assume the role of Chairperson for that meeting.
Appointment of Committee members
The Director-General will call for nominations from tangata whenua and the island community. Nominations will be open for a minimum of twenty (20) working days and must be lodged with the specified offices of the Department of Conservation before 4.30pm on the closing date.
The Minister of Conservation will make appointments to the Committee after considering the nominations and the Director-General’s advice.
Term of appointment
Appointments to the Committee will be for a term of up to three (3) years. The specific term of each appointment shall be specified in the notice of appointment for each member. A member takes office from the date stated in their notice of appointment.
Members may from time to time be re-appointed to the Committee.
Any member of the Committee may at any time be removed from the Committee by the Minister of Conservation for bankruptcy, disability, neglect of duty, or misconduct.
Any member of the Committee may at any time resign his or her membership in writing, addressed to the Minister of Conservation.
Should any member of the Committee die, resign or be removed from the Committee, the vacancy shall be filled in the manner in which the appointment was originally made, for the residue of the term of the vacating member.
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Meetings of the Committee
Time and place of meetings The inaugural meeting of the Committee shall be within two (2) months of the appointment of the Committee, with the date and venue decided by Committee members. Subsequent meetings shall be held at such times and venues as the Chairperson or Committee decide.
Number of meetings No more than four (4) meetings of the Committee may be held in any calendar year. Consent must firstly be obtained from the Director-General for any additional meetings.
Quorum A quorum of the Committee shall comprise at least six (6) members of the whole Committee. No business shall be transacted unless a quorum is present.
Decisions Every question before the Committee shall be determined by a majority of members present voting on the question.
Only those members present at a meeting may vote at that meeting.
At any meeting of the Committee the Chairperson shall, in the case of an equality of vote, also have a casting vote being a second vote.
Subject to these rules the Committee may regulate its own practices.
Conflicts of interest At the start of each meeting Committee members shall declare if they have any conflicts of interest in relation to any item on the meeting agenda, and take appropriate steps at the direction of the Chairperson.
Attendance by representatives of the Director-General The Director-General shall be represented at meetings of the Committee by staff of the Department of Conservation. Staff members are not voting members of the Committee.
Administrative support The Director-General shall provide administrative support to the Committee including the preparation of agendas and the recording of minutes.
Annual report
An annual report of the Committee shall be prepared and sent to the Minister of Conservation by the end of July each year.
Auckland Conservation Board
The provision of advice to the Director-General by the Committee will not prevent the Auckland Conservation Board from separately providing advice to the Director-General on the same or related matters.
A copy of the annual report of the Committee shall be sent to the Auckland Conservation Board. docDM-1590009 15 4
Fees and allowances
Fees and allowances payable to Committee members will be in accordance with the State Services Commission guidelines for members of statutory bodies appointed by the Crown. Fees will be set at the same rate as those received by Auckland Conservation Board members.
Fees and allowances will only be paid for work, other than preparation and attendance at Committee meetings, that has been approved and minuted by the Committee and for which it is undertaken.
Amendments to Terms of Reference and procedures
The Minister of Conservation reserves the right to amend these Terms of Reference and procedures at any time. The Minister will consult with the Committee before making any amendments.
Approval
Pursuant to section 56(1) of the Conservation Act 1987 these Terms of Reference and procedures for the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee were approved by Hon Maggie Barry ONZM, Minister of Conservation, on 10 April 2015.
The Minister of Conservation approved an amendment to the Terms of Reference on 9 December 2015.
docDM-1590009 16
AOTEA CONSERVATION PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE Meeting 10 – 10 December 2018 10am, Room 4.8N, 4th Floor, Bledisloe House, 24 Wellesley Street, Auckland
AGENDA Item Time Lead/Author INTRODUCTIONS AND WELCOME Karakia 1 Introduction and Welcome 10.00am Chair
2 PUBLIC FORUM – time allocation at discretion of the Chair 10.05am Chair
CONFIRMATIONS 3 Agenda / Items for General Business 10.45am Chair 4 Apologies 5 Conflicts of Interest Attached
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING 6 Confirmation of minutes from 17 Sept 2018 Attached 10.50am Chair 7 Actions from previous meetings Attached
CHAIRPERSON’S REPORT 8 Chairperson’s report Verbal 11.00am Chair
STRATEGY & PRIORITIES 9 Kauri Dieback Attached 11.15am George Taylor 10 Aotea Biodiversity update Verbal 11.45am George Taylor 11 Pateke Report Verbal 12.00pm George Taylor
LUNCH 12.30pm
12 Auckland Council Parks – Local Parks Plan 1.00pm Shyrel Vurt
OPERATIONAL REPORTS 13 Directors Report Verbal 1.30pm Andrew Baucke 14 Operations Manager’s Report Attached 1.45pm George Taylor 15 Concessions update Attached 2.00pm Rebecca Rush 16 Concession Assessment Criteria Attached 2.15pm Rebecca Rush
17 3 ACPAC Agenda 10 December 2018 DOC-5594179
ADMINISTRATION 17 Annual Report Attached 2.45pm Chair 18 Confirmation of Correspondence Attached 19 Financial Report Attached 20 Dates and venues for upcoming meetings Attached 21 Calendar of events/record of activities Attached
GENERAL BUSINESS / ADDITIONAL ITEMS 22 General business 3.00pm Chair
WHAKATAU/CLOSING Karakia 3.30pm
18 4 ACPAC Agenda 10 December 2018 DOC-5594179
Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 5 Meeting No. 10
AOTEA CONSERVATION PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE REGISTER OF INTERESTS and IDENTIFICATION OF CONFLICTS OF INTEREST
For meeting on 10 December 2018
Please use this form to update your register of interests and to note any actual or perceived Conflict of Interest with regard to any agenda item for this meeting
Name
Register of Interests ………………………………………………………………… update …………………………………………………………………
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………………………………………………………………… Identification of any actual or perceived ………………………………………………………………… conflict of interest with regard to any ………………………………………………………………… agenda item …………………………………………………………………
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Signed (ACPAC member)
Date
DOCCM-2868475 Author John Galilee Date 3 March 2018 19 DOCCM-2868475 Author John Galilee Date 3 March 2018 20 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 6 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Fenella Christian / aotea conservation Park Advisory Committee Support
Subject: Confirmation of Minutes
ACPAC Strategic The item relates to all the objectives and functions of the Priority and/or the Advisory Committee as set out in the Terms of Reference and Relevant DOC SOI Procedures. Goal
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Advisory Committee: Action Required a) Confirm the minutes from the meeting of 17 September 2018
Context The Advisory Committee should formally confirm the minutes of each meeting as a true and correct record, in order to properly fulfil its functions and to ensure that the public record is correct. Members have an opportunity to identify any corrections before confirmation of the minutes as correct.
DOCCM-2922150 Author Fenella Christian Date 21 November 2018 21 22
Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee
17 September 2018 meeting
Meeting 9, held at 9.00am, Schoolmasters House, Claris, Aotea/Great Barrier
Unconfirmed minutes
PRESENT
Paul Downie - Chairperson Nicola MacDonald Judy Gilbert Tony Christiansen Kate Waterhouse Catherine Munroe (via teleconference)
APOLOGIES
Rodney Ngawaka Committee member Roger Burrill Committee member Liane Ngamane Committee member Lyn Mayes Auckland Conservation Board
IN ATTENDANCE
Andrew Baucke Operations Director, Auckland John Galilee Statutory Manager, Auckland Fenella Christian Advisory Committee Support Officer George Taylor Operations Manager, Great Barrier Island Sue Daly Great Barrier Island Local Board
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September 2018 23 Karakia
Nicola Macdonald opened the meeting with a karakia.
Agenda item 1 – Welcome and introductions
Paul Downie welcomed everyone to the meeting.
The committee stood for one minute’s silence for Helen Hill, Renee Martin, Ben Manson, Sue Gray and Mei Wii.
Agenda item 2 – Public forum
No requests were received to speak to the committee.
Agenda item 3 – Confirmation of agenda / items for general business
Kate Waterhouse requested that two items be discussed under General business:
1. Review of the national Biodiversity Strategy; and 2. The application from Coastal Resources Ltd. for increased dumping of sediment east of Great Barrier Island.
Agenda item 4 - Apologies
Apologies were accepted from Liane Ngamane, Rodney Ngawaka, Roger Burrill and Lyn Mayes (Auckland Conservation Board).
Agenda Item 5 – Conflicts of interest
No conflicts of interest were registered.
Agenda Item 6 – Confirmation of minutes 11th June 2018
There was no discussion.
Moved to accept the Minutes of 11th June 2018 Moved: Nicola Macdonald Seconded: Kate Waterhouse Carried
Agenda item 7 – Actions from previous meetings
[This item was not discussed by members as it was inadvertently overlooked.]
Agenda Item 8 – Chairpersons report
Paul Downie spoke to his report. He stated that it was heartening that the Rakitū operation had been completed, and referred to the personal attacks he had received in his role as Chair from those opposed to the use of brodifacoum for the eradication.
He attended the Hauraki Gulf Forum’s annual symposium on 5 September which had a great selection of speakers. He felt that more challenges about what more could be done to restore the Gulf could have been part of the day.
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September, 2018
24 Paul noted that the draft annual report had been circulated to members for comment. Kate Waterhouse suggested that the report should highlight the small community on the island and the few opportunities that presented to partner with others, and the limited capacity of the population to do conservation work.
Action: Paul to add comments about limited capacity of the island’s population into the annual report.
Moved to accept Chairperson’s report Moved: Judy Gilbert Seconded: Nicola Macdonald Carried
Agenda Item 10 – Kauri dieback update
George Taylor spoke to his report. Both the Advisory Committee and the Auckland Conservation Board have asked questions about the department’s response to kauri dieback. Both are seeking a better understanding of the overall picture. Members were invited to provide feedback on the set of questions in his report which brings together all the questions asked by both bodies at their recent meetings.
George noted that tracks have been upgraded where mitigation work has been required. The kauri dieback situation is changing rapidly at the moment and it is imperative for all the agencies to work together. An example is the mapping that Council has done, which the Department needs to get access to.
John Galilee advised that the set of questions were intended to help frame the report so that the Department provided members with the information they have been seeking. Nicola Macdonald note that it is important to work with partners, and that MPI are seeking submissions at present for which the deadline has been extended for another 2 weeks.
Action: Fenella to send kauri dieback website link to committee so they can submit to MPI if they wish to on latest proposals.
Andrew noted that MPI, DOC and Auckland Council are making sure the standards they apply through the region are the same, such as track standards, as they had been different. He is on a regional kauri dieback governance group to share information and coordinate a joined-up approach. There is a need for public information around the vectors and the biggest gap is with advocacy and education. George noted the opportunity to work with Council such as on the track ambassadors programme. It was suggested that ‘Ark in the Park’ would be a useful contact as they are dealing with track closures at the moment.
George noted that with the relatively new DOC region it has taken a while to get fully up to speed and to have information available for a clear handover to new staff. Up until recently a lot of the kauri dieback information has been held by national teams so it has been harder to get the information. There is also significant money available for kauri dieback and higher quality tracks are being build or upgraded as a result.
Kate Waterhouse noted that the mobility of people near trees is the issue, and how can uninfected trees be protected, and mentioned pig hunters as one example. Andrew noted that there are useful learnings from elsewhere about pigs such as at Waipoua forest. George has an action to meet with Logan Goloboski and the Aotea Pig Hunters. Recent science work has been focussing on the vectors.
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September, 2018
25 Members requested that questions about pigs as vectors and about the cultural significance of kauri need to be included in the questions for the next report. Ngati Rehua can give a perspective on the cultural significance of kauri to them, and on matauranga Maori.
Catherine Munroe asked about the length of term for pig hunting permits. These are issued for less than 12 months. At present there is no cap on the numbers of people hunting but there are mechanisms in place for the department to put a cap on numbers. Members expressed support for building a relationship with the island pig hunting group.
George provided an update on the submissions process for the closing of tracks. Three submissions were received about track closures on Great Barrier, two being opposed to closures as the tracks had historic value. He indicated that it was likely the final outcomes would be to close the three tracks.
Agenda Item 11 – Aotea biodiversity update
George spoke to his report.
• Management of pests at Hirakimata – George had attended the Local Board meeting at which they discussed Hirakimata. Use of the Auckland Council’s A24 traps could be good at this site but scoping needs to be done to see if their use is viable. Sue Daley noted that the Local Board was disappointed with their performance as there was a high rate of failure. George noted that while there are a few problems with the traps, this would be a good opportunity to take the traps to a new location with different issues. Judy Gilbert noted that the Windy Hill report on the trial of these traps is ready and is due to come out shortly.
Action: Judy Gilbert to send report about the Windy Hill A24 trap trial to be distributed to the committee.
Members noted that the biggest cost with these traps are the baits and gas. The traps are reliable but not necessarily the best tool for rats and should be used as one of several tools. They would need to be checked 3 monthly rather than the recommended 6 monthly period. The Hirakimata topography will play a big part in any trapping because of it’s steepness, but Biz Bell has suggested that they could be put around the takoketai/black petrel monitoring tracks. They could also be used to protect chevron skinks at places such as Okiwi, Port FitzRoy and Coopers Castle ridge. Sue Daley advised members that the Local Board would support the use of the traps at another large-scale project.
• Restoration Projects – George noted that an engagement plan had been put in place with his community team and this supports the idea of a southern and northern sanctuaries and increasing the visitor experience in nature on Great Barrier Island.
• Pest and weed control – he noted that there was no change compared to the 2017 programme.
• Myrtle Rust – he noted that none had yet been detected on the island but it was recently found on Kawau.
• Rakitū – George noted that the second bait application was done on Thursday 13 September, well within the time frame for the second drop to still be effective. There were a lot of protests with the first drop and the police provided magnificent support. The hard part is yet to come and that is the restoration of the island.
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September, 2018
26 He noted that the weka project is still ongoing and feasibility work being done at the moment. The removal of weka was not part of the eradication project but has been a very big project to remove and look after them at Mt. Bruce. Paul noted that a sanctuary will not be able to be created if weka remain on the island. George advised that to remove the rest of the weka from the island is a large project and is included in the feasibility study. He also noted that there are a pair of pateke in a holding pen at Glenfern Sanctuary and they will be returned to the island.
Members acknowledged the work done on Rakitū by DOC and noted that Ngati Rehua and everyone is delighted that the mauri of Rakitū is being restored. George has demonstrated a level of care to staff that has to be commended. It is exciting to see the future restoration of Rakitu.
Nicola Macdonald presented a gift to George for the staff as a thank you.
Agenda Item 9 – Auckland Council biodiversity and biosecurity
Shanti Morgan and Jeremy Warden spoke to a very detailed presentation on the review of the regional pest management strategy (RPMS), plans for use of the new targeted rate funds, and on the work that Auckland Council is doing on Great Barrier. Members raised questions about some matters.
Shanti Morgan informed members about the trial to eradicate plague skinks. A second cell to hold chickens has been built. They achieved an 80% reduction in the first cell, but there are a lot of little skinks left so chickens are possibly not getting eggs or young ones. They are still looking at possible eradication but here are now two incursion sites on the island. Advise is that a lot of individuals are necessary for an incursion to establish a permanent population. Members noted the risk to indigenous lizard species if plague skinks were not eradicated from the island.
Shanti noted that a facilitator has been appointed to help progress the Ecology Vision with the Local Board.
Members discussed how to communicate with island residents about the content of the revised RPMS. There was low turn out at public sessions about it, and its content is complex.
Shanti advised that the targeted rate will generate $311 million across the region over 10 years, which is additional to existing funded work. Approx. $1 million will be spent on Great Barrier this year plus additional funds from the regional budget.
Kate asked if it was possible to get a copy of the high value ecological sites on the island that Council have identified plus the work planned for those areas by Council. Shanti noted that a lot of the sites are on DOC land, so the work is as much about collaboration as it is about funding.
Action: Fenella to obtain a copy of the presentation from Auckland Council.
Action: Fenella to obtain from Shanti Morgan Auckland Council’s list of high value ecological areas and circulate to members.
Shanti and Jeremy were thanked for their very comprehensive presentation.
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September, 2018
27 Attachment: Presentation from Auckland Council.
Agenda item 12 – Pāteke Report
George spoke to the agenda item and noted that the annual report on pāteke was included in the agenda papers. Pāteke numbers have slightly increased over the last year but the data needs to be collected over a few years before this can be counted as an upwards trend. There was greater survey effort in 17/18 which may have contributed to the higher count, along with the benefits of an extended period of rabbit and cat control. This year the bird flock count was extended to three days whereas it has only been two days in the past.
Judy Gilbert asked if live capture traps for rabbits and cats were being used as they can be more effective than kill traps. George advised that there are econodes on some traps but because of some issues the traps are still being visually checked.
Kate Waterhouse advised that she supported the report’s recommendations but noted that the impact of rats on breeding success was a missing piece of information. She asked mhy this was not a matter of interest for the pāteke recovery group. Members agreed that there needs to be a study done on the impact of rats on the breeding success of pāteke and that this should be raised with the recovery group. Judy noted that that tracking tunnels through the area may provide a better picture of the numbers of rats in areas with pāteke.
Action: George to engage with the pāteke recovery group about the effect of rats on pāteke breeding success.
Catherine Munro asked about community support for work on pāteke at Motairehe. Numbers of pāteke in this area are very low which is of concern. Members thanked Louise Mack for her report.
Agenda Item 13 – Business Plan 2018/2019
George Taylor spoke to his report, which provided members with information about what is in the department’s current year’s Great Barrier business plan for biodiversity and visitor related work. In addition, there are community related projects, $250,000 for the plague skink eradication project, $250,000 for kauri dieback mitigation work on tracks and for advocacy, and capital funds for track upgrades.
Judy noted that Mt. Young was a potential site for laying out the Local Board’s A24 traps.
Agenda Item 14 – Business Plan 2019/2020 Strategic Priorities
George spoke to the report. He noted that a strategic review was underway to identify regional strategic priorities. Initial indicative information has been submitted. Prescription reviews are also underway for individual work areas. He noted that Rakitū will be an ongoing project planning for its restoration and biosecurity with involvement from the community.
Members noted that Te Paparahi was not included in the list of strategic priorities, which should be included to support Ngāti Rehua. Additional support for the project needs to come from the Minister of Conservation, which will help communication at a local level about options for the project and to tell the story. The Rakitū operation has resulted in strong polarised views in the community at present.
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September, 2018
28 Agenda Item 15 – Directors report
Andrew Baucke provided a verbal report. He noted the launch of Conservation Week, the big ramp-up in anti-1080 protests around the country, the finding of myrtle rust on Kawau, the shift of the Auckland office to a new site, the investigation into use of PAWS remote tracking technology to help identify pests, the current business planning process, and recruitment for a new Pou.
Moved to accept the Directors report as presented Moved: Paul Downie Seconded: Judy Gilbert Carried
Agenda Item 16 - Operations Managers report
George spoke to his report. He noted that staff are still finding missing signs in the conservation park. There had been a Conservation Week planting event at Okiwi, and staff had appreciated the ongoing support from the community. Now the eradication of Rakitū has been completed DOC is looking to build on the restoration of the island with help from the community. It is hoped that children can be taken to the Mokohinau islands and Rakitu at some stage to how them the benefits of restoration.
He noted that two new rangers had started. Ian McNickle has come from the Central North Island and is here for a year while Sarah Dwyer is on maternity leave. Scott Van Leeuwen is the new Rec/Historic Ranger replacing Daryl Stephens. He noted that they are continuing to keep the Barrier Bulletin articles going and will also be including articles on Rakitu restoration work.
Moved to accept the Operation Managers report Moved: Paul Downie Seconded: Tony Christiansen Carried
Agenda Item 17 – Great Walk update
Members noted that the Aotea Track proposal did not make the final cut for the final three proposals that will be investigated in detail. Aotea Track did make it through to the final group of seven. The three successful tracks were Te Paki, Hump Ridge and Queen Charlotte. Andrew Baucke noted that a brand can still be created for the Aotea Track.
Agenda Item 18 – Concessions update
Members noted the report. Nicola Macdonald noted that Ngāti Rehua only have an interest in one current application which is from Elise Bishop to take albatross bones.
Paul Downie noted that the Advisory Committee had been invited by the Motu Kaikoura Trust to comment on their draft management plan. Members agreed that the Advisory Committee would not submit as it was a site outside the conservation park.
Kate Waterhouse asked why the application from the Northern Seabird Trust has been declined. Andrew advised that it was because the application did not have sufficient detail to allow an approval, but that we were working with the Trust so they can continue their activities.
Agenda Item 19 – Annual Report
Paul Downie tabled the revised draft annual report. He requested feedback on the draft as soon as possible, with feedback to him by 21 September.
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September, 2018
29 Action: Members to provide feedback on draft annual report to Paul by 21 September.
Agenda Item 20 – Correspondence
There was no correspondence to report.
Agenda Item 21 – Financial Report
John Galilee noted that the report presented the final outcome for the 17/18 year.
Moved to accept and approve Financial Report Moved: Paul Downie Seconded: Judy Gilbert Carried
Agenda Item 22 – Dates and venues for upcoming meetings
Members noted the next meeting is scheduled for Monday 10 December at the new DOC office, Bledisloe House, Auckland.
John Galilee updated members about the process for the appointment of a new Advisory Committee in 2019. Members agreed that an additional point should be added to the annual repot about the need for a review of the Terms of Reference for the Advisory Committee.
Action: Paul to add point in the annual report about the need for a review of the Terms of Reference.
John Galilee reminded members about the interest of the Auckland Conservation Board to meet on Aotea in February 2019. The proposal is to have the ACPAC meeting on the Monday morning and the ACB could join with the Committee for a couple of hours in the afternoon. Members supported the suggestion of a joint session with the Board.
Action: Paul to liaise with John, Andrew and Lyn Mayes about the February meeting.
Agenda Item 23 – Calendar of events/record of activities
There was no discussion.
Agenda Item 24 – Appointment to vacancy
John Galilee provided members with an update about progress with making the appointment to fill the vacancy. The papers were to be prepared for the Minister of Conservation.
Agenda Item 25 - General business
Kate Waterhouse asked about how the Advisory Committee might have input into the review of the national Biodiversity Strategy. Andrew agreed to find out more about the consultation process and how the Advisory Committee might be briefed on the review.
Action: Andrew to provide information to members about an opportunity to be briefed about the review of the national Biodiversity Strategy.
Kate Waterhouse asked about the application from Coastal Resources Ltd. to increase the dumping of dredged material off the east coast of Aotea and has investigated the available information. She asked if it was possible to obtain a copy of the Auckland Conservation
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September, 2018
30 Board’s submission on the application. Nicola Macdonald agreed to circulate a copy to members.
Action: Nicola to circulate to members a copy of Auckland Conservation Board’s submission on the Coastal Resources Ltd consent application.
John Galilee reminded members that submitting on this application would be outside the Advisory Committee’s terms of reference.
Karakia
Nicola Macdonald closed the meeting with a karakia.
MEETING CLOSED AT 12.30PM
Paul Downie Chairperson
DOC-5581907 Author: Fenella Christian 18th September, 2018
31 32 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 7 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Fenella Christian, Advisory Committee Support Officer
Subject: Actions from previous meetings
Responsibility Action Subject Status No Meeting 3 – 10 April 2017 Department 3.6 The Department to provide a breakdown identifying those tracks in kauri forests Open – see report in agenda for the Auckland region, including for 10 December 2018 forests under the Department’s meeting management and those under Auckland Council management. Department 3.7 The Department to use its risk assessment tool to assess the Te Open – see report in agenda Paparahi block and to report to both the for 10 December 2018 Conservation Board and Advisory meeting Committee on if it should be closed to the public, including the considerations that would need to be examined. Meeting 7 - 16 April 2018 Department 7.1 Expand information about kauri dieback Open – see report in agenda on Great Barrier Island and Te Paparahi for 10 December 2018 to include an assessment across the meeting whole Conservation Park. Chair 7.2 Prepare the draft annual report for the Closed – draft annual report 2017/2018 year, including a discussion prepared. about kauri dieback. Chair 7.6 Write to Gael Ogilvie or Gary Potter at Closed – Shanti Morgan Auckland Council seeking information presented to 17 September about the Council’s specific work 2018 meeting. programme for Aotea and the implications of the regional pest management strategy for Aotea. Include an invitation to Council to present to ACPAC at the September meeting. Department 7.12 Include pāteke recovery on the agenda Closed – a standing item for for each meeting agenda for each meeting. Meeting 8 - 11 June 2018 Closed – Council staff have Circulate to all members reply about advised that this is still at a proposed Area Plan for Great Barrier, Chair 8.2 very early stage. Can be re- when received from Peter Vari of visited when work on this is Auckland Council. more developed. George to liaise with the Pig Hunting Department 8.3 Club and seek their input into updating Open maps of kauri locations on the island.
DOCCM-5587536 Author: Fenella Christian Date: 21 November 2018 33 DOC to arrange a meeting with the Department 8.4 Great Barrier Pig Hunting Club to talk Open about vectors for kauri dieback. Closed – DOC is on a regional DOC to liaise with MPI and Auckland governance group for kauri Council about a coordinated dieback. Co-ordinating Department 8.5 communications and education communications is one of the programme for the public about kauri matters they are working dieback. together on. DOC to contact Ewen Cameron at Department 8.7 Auckland Museum to obtain copies of Closed vegetation maps of Great Barrier. DOC to set up a working group to look at a plan for increasing pest control at Department 8.11 Hirakimata, with Operations Manager as Open the lead.
DOC to circulate John Ogden’s report Department 8.12 Open – to be circulated about Hirakimata to all members.
Meeting 9 – 17 September 2018 Paul to add comments about limited Chair 9.1 capacity of the island’s population into Closed the annual report. Fenella to obtain from Shanti Morgan Auckland Council’s list of high value Department 9.2 Closed ecological areas and circulate to members Fenella to send kauri dieback website Closed – website link circulated Department 9.3 link to committee so they can submit to to members. MPI if they wish to on latest proposals Judy Gilbert to send report about the Member 9.4 Windy Hill A24 trap trial to be distributed Closed – report circulated. to the committee George to engage with the pāteke Department 9.5 recovery group about the effect of rats Open on pāteke breeding success Closed – feedback provided Members to provide feedback on draft Members 9.6 and report submitted to annual report to Paul by 21 September Minister. Paul to add point in the annual report Chair 9.7 about the need for a review of the Terms Closed of Reference. Paul to liaise with John, Andrew and Lyn Chair 9.8 Open Mayes about the February meeting. Andrew to provide information to members about an opportunity to be Department 9.9 Open briefed about the review of the national Biodiversity Strategy. Nicola to circulate to members a copy of Closed – circulated link to Auckland Conservation Board’s Member 9.10 EPA webpage with information submission on the Coastal Resources about the application. Ltd consent application.
DOCCM-5587536 Author: Fenella Christian Date: 21 November 2018 34 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 8 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Fenella Christian / Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Support
Subject: Chairperson’s Report
ACPAC Strategic The item relates to all the objectives and functions of the Priority and/or the Chairperson as set out in the Terms of Reference and Relevant DOC SOI Procedures. Goal
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Advisory Committee: Action Required a) Confirm the Chairperson’s Report as presented to the committee
Context The Advisory Committee should formally confirm the Chairperson’s Report as per the Terms of Reference and Procedures.
DOCCM-5435240 Author Fenella Christian Date 21 November 2018 35
DOCCM-5435240 Author Fenella Christian Date 21 November 2018 36 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 9 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: John Galilee, Statutory Manager
Subject: Kauri Dieback Update
ACPAC Strategic Management issues in the Conservation Park, such as kauri Priority and/or the dieback, are among the matters that the Advisory Committee Relevant DOC SOI may provide advice on (objective (a) in the Terms of Reference Goal refers).
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Action Required Committee: a) Note the contents of this paper
Context The Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee has discussed and asked questions about how the Department is responding to the threat of kauri dieback disease. The Department has compiled a set of questions to form the basis for a comprehensive report to the Advisory Committee. The questions are designed to address various questions asked by both the Advisory Committee and the Auckland Conservation Board over the past 12-18 months about aspects of the Department’s response to kauri dieback.
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 37 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 9 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Kirsty Prior, Operations Manager Auckland Mainland George Taylor, Operations Manager Aotea/ Great Barrier
Subject: Kauri Dieback Update
1. Working with Tangata Whenua - How is DOC engaging with tangata whenua about kauri dieback? - What does the Department understand about the cultural significance of kauri to tangata whenua? - How does the Department plan to learn more about its cultural significance? - How is the Department responding to rāhui being placed over kauri forests?
1.1 In Tāmaki Makaurau DOC is working closely with tangata whenua at key sites: a Goldie Bush: Te Kawerau a Maki have placed a rāhui over the reserve and have been in close discussion with DOC staff about steps needed before re-opening the track. Mana whenua were instrumental in ensuring a Controlled Area Notice (CAN) was placed over the entire reserve. Te Kawerau a Maki have visited the site with DOC staff on several occasions to review the standard of the track and suggest improvements. As a result, new signage and interpretation have been developed and installed at key points in the Reserve. Further developments and improvements are continuing. b Okura Bush: DOC is working with Ngāti Manuhiri, Te Kawerau a Maki and Ngāti Rehua who jointly placed a rāhui over the reserve. There was an official ceremony to close the reserve in May 2018. Since then, the reserve remains closed and DOC staff are in ongoing discussions with tangata whenua about the track upgrade work being undertaken and the ongoing community pest management in the reserve. c Logues Bush: in 2015 Ngāti Manuhiri placed a rāhui over the reserve and the department closed the reserve. The reserve remains closed to public access and there is no pest control occurring within the reserve. A community group began undertaking pest control around the perimeter of the reserve in 2018. d Dome Forest: Ngāti Manuhiri is closely working with DOC staff on track upgrades, track ambassadors and cleaning stations. e Mangatawhiri: The track has been assessed with mana whenua, engineers, an archaeologist and DOC staff. While most iwi support the upgrade work, one iwi has raised concerns which are under discussion. At this stage, the track may not be mitigated and could remain closed. f Support to iwi for protection of their lands: at Atuanui, Ngāti Whātua o Kaipara placed a rāhui to protect against kauri dieback. The department is supporting
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 38 Ngāti Whātua o Kaipara with advice and support, as well as capability building of mana whenua around track realignment. 1.2 DOC understands that for Māori, kauri are kings of the forest and a taonga (treasure) that connects them and their spiritual world. 1.3 Across the region, each District aspires to hold workshops with iwi to ensure that their views are fully considered in the decision-making process around closing and upgrading tracks, as well as pest animal management approaches. 1.4 DOC respects rāhui placed over reserves by tangata whenua, and where this has occurred on the Auckland mainland, DOC has responded by closing tracks/ reserves or working closely with tangata whenua to create access through the reserves under the rāhui. There are currently no rāhui in place on any of the islands or Aotea for kauri dieback.
2. Governance and Strategy - How is the response to kauri dieback being managed across the region? - What is DOC’s role? - What do the proposals currently being consulted on by MPI mean for DOC? - What is DOC’s regional strategy for managing kauri dieback? - How are DOC and Auckland Council working together?
2.1 DOC is a member of the national Kauri Dieback Programme, a collaborative partnership between the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), who lead the programme, the Department of Conservation, local regional councils and tangata whenua. The Programme has run since 2009 and focuses on building knowledge, capability and tools to help prevent the spread of the disease for all agency partners and providing information to the public via the kauridieback.co.nz website. 2.2 DOC has used the science from the Kauri Dieback Programme to develop information for its staff, provide kits and procedures for hygiene and communications via the department’s internal website. 2.3 The Kauri Dieback Recreation Project leads the department’s track-related strategy until July 2019. The Project utilises science developed within the Kauri Dieback Programme to develop track mitigation, effective cleaning stations, and behaviour change programmes in response to the evidence identifying people as the primary vector. 2.4 The Government has provided additional funding to the department for this work: a $10.7m for capital works over 3 years; b $10.9 M for increased maintenance and operational funding. 2.5 DOC is responsible for protecting kauri on public conservation land and other land it manages. DOC treats all areas where kauri is located on Public Conservation Land as potentially contaminated, and implements mitigation measures, re-routes tracks for avoidance, or closes tracks partially or completely. 2.6 The MPI-led Accelerating Protection for Kauri project team is developing the National Pest Management Plan (NPMP). 2.7 A National Pest Management Plan is the strongest form of regulation MPI can put in place under the Biosecurity Act 1993. It will be a legal document that sets out rules to
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 39 control the spread of kauri dieback disease across all regions with naturally occurring kauri in New Zealand. 2.8 Examples of pests and diseases currently managed under NPMPs are: Psa-V impacting kiwifruit (managed by Kiwifruit Vine Health), American Foulbrood impacting bee health (managed by Apiculture New Zealand) and bovine TB impacting the livestock sector (managed by OSPRI New Zealand). 2.9 The project is also considering options for the management agency that will implement the NPMP and improving engagement with partners and communities. It is not yet clear how the agency will interact with DOC and other land managers as the process is not yet sufficiently advanced. However, DOC is actively engaged in these discussions. 2.10 The project is running three rounds of consultation this year to gather collective ideas and feedback to help develop the NPMP. DOC staff have attended all the regional consultation hui to date and there is one final round of consultation due before the end of 2018. 2.11 An independent panel has been appointed to bring a fresh perspective and provide advice to the kauri dieback governance group on strategic elements of the project. They will assist the programme in key decisions. 2.12 The Auckland regional strategy for managing kauri dieback is informed by the track strategy developed out of the Kauri Dieback Recreation Project, aspirations of mana whenua, the governance group and assessing risks and opportunities as they arise. Tracks are independently assessed for mitigation/closure as site-specific information is taken into account. Funding for a regional kauri dieback project manager has been requested. 2.13 DOC and Auckland Council are working together in the following areas: a Track closures: discussions and capability building for proposed track closures and impacts to the community and recreation users. A strategic view of track use across both local and central government parks and areas is being discussed. b Track upgrade work: both agencies have been sharing information on track standards and mitigation techniques since 2009. c New Mark II wash stations: both agencies are working on join collateral and shared messaging to Auckland users. The department has installed six new stations at strategic locations. DOC offered one new cleaning station to the Council. It is believed the Council have now purchased 20 new stations. d Track ambassadors: since 2017 the agencies have been working together to train and manage kauri dieback track ambassadors at track sites throughout the Auckland region. This programme has been extended in 2019. e Events and advocacy: both agencies are working closely to plan and deliver specific events across the region such as the Conservation Week Botanic Gardens Kauri Dieback event and the upcoming NZ Flower & Garden Show. f Regulation: DOC commented on aspects of the Auckland City Unitary plan and has been supported by Auckland Council staff in its attempt to have kauri dieback management provisions into the Puhoi-Warkworth Highway earthworks procedures.
3. Information & mapping - Does the Department have good up to date information and maps about where kauri are located on PCL? - If so, where can those maps be viewed?
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 40 - What surveillance is DOC doing to identify kauri affected by kauri dieback, and monitor any spread?
3.1 DOC has information on which forests have kauri present, such as by vegetation description, but not mapped in a manner that ridges/select areas with kauri could be identified. MPI maintain a national database of sites and that information is available to DOC. 3.2 The map on the kauri dieback website displays sites identified from surveillance that have been targeted for follow up ground work by landowners and land managers to confirm the presence of kauri dieback. It covers the period from 2009 until August 2018. 3.3 MPI undertook further flights during the 2017 – 2018 summer period specifically to survey for kauri affected by dieback in some of the northern Auckland Region. DOC does not yet have access to these results but have recently hired a GIS specialist to look at how best to access the information from the national database. 3.4 Okura Bush Scenic Reserve and Dome Forest are the only DOC reserves that we are aware of where aerial mapping can identify defoliated kauri trees. 3.5 Auckland Council plan to undertake comprehensive aerial mapping of Aotea this summer 2018-19 to further define kauri dieback areas. It is intended to add sites on the Auckland mainland to this programme. 3.6 Soil samples have been taken from a few sites where kauri dieback may be present that have not been previously confirmed. (Goldie Bush/ Motutara Scenic Reserve and Okura Bush). The spread within infected sites is not currently being tracked / mapped.
4. Vectors - What are the vectors for spreading the disease, and what is the scientific evidence for each vector? - What is the relative contribution of each vector to spread of the disease? - What research is DOC undertaking to look at the role of pigs as vectors for spreading the disease? - If pigs are potential vectors, what is DOC doing to control pig numbers in kauri forests? - What role does pig hunting play as a potential vector, and if so, how can this be addressed? - What role do other species of wild animal play as potential vectors e.g. deer and goats? - Can community conservation management of forests, such as pest and weed control activities, act as a potential vector, and if so, how can this be managed?
4.1 The vectors for the disease are any activity that can spread soil or contaminated plant material. There is no knowledge of the relative contribution of each vector as this will differ with each site and over timeframes that could be longer than 50 years. 4.2 The disease is soil-borne so it can spread over vast distances by movement of contaminated soil. It also spreads locally through soil water. We estimate that the natural spread of the pathogen is around three metres per year. 4.3 It can also spread by root to root contact, as a lot of kauri grown in kauri stands have their roots interconnected as well as by movement of infected kauri wood. There is no
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 41 evidence to suggest the disease can be transmitted in kauri seeds or cones unless they are contaminated with soil. 4.4 Although we have not detected the pathogen in water bodies such as streams or creeks, it is possible the pathogen can disperse downstream especially in times of flooding. 4.5 As far as we are aware, only kauri has been found to be a susceptible host, but laboratory research suggest that other native plant species may be colonised near kauri. Extensive field trials are currently being done to validate these research findings and to determine if other plant species can host or carry the disease. 4.6 By far the greatest amount of movement of the disease is attributed to human activities. Several observational studies imply that the movement of contaminated soil on people and associated vehicles and equipment represent the greatest risk of spread. The high frequency of visitors to forests combined with a variety of activities increases the likelihood of large amounts of contaminated soil being removed inadvertently from within and between kauri forests. 4.7 After extensive testing, monitoring and evaluation, enhanced cleaning stations have been developed and are being installed on busy and high-risk DOC managed tracks in the kauri region. The new stations are designed to be easier to use and difficult to avoid. 4.8 The Kauri Dieback Programme and Auckland Council have funded investigations into pig dispersal of the disease. It appears that any spread is more likely a result of carriage on the surface of the pig, rather than through faecal dispersion. DOC is not singularly doing research but contributes to the Kauri Dieback Programmes research funding. 4.9 Where pigs are a problem, the department can carry out control, including the option to cull pig levels on PCL. 4.10 Pigs and other wild animals are being targeted to low/very low levels, or eradication is undertaken (when viable and when re-invasion is unlikely). On the Mainland, all wild animals are generally held at very low levels, with the Mataitai Forests recently being targeted for pig and goat control prior to a 1080 operation. 4.11 There are several ways that pigs and pig hunting could spread kauri dieback but this is difficult to quantify. Pig hunters are one group of off-track users of forests and likely disperse soil. It is possible off-track users are moving across kauri roots. Removing pig hunting from kauri forests does not address the issue of pigs as vectors. The nature of pig hunting makes it difficult to control and manage the movement of soil. In the Auckland Mainland, recreational pig hunters are not able to apply for online permits and permits are individually allocated. 4.12 The release and spread of wild animals to new or previously controlled areas is an ongoing challenge. 4.13 There is a possibility that goats and deer could be vectors for kauri dieback disease. There is currently no information for this. Deer distribution is limited in the Auckland region. 4.14 Cattle may access kauri forests and could be a significant vector at some sites. Stock access is controlled by fencing of DOC reserves and should be accounted for in grazing arrangements. However, there is a continued challenge to ensure adequate fencing is in place and that fences are maintained to ensure stock access to kauri forest is prevented. Historically, land use and/or purchase arrangements may not have taken kauri dieback into consideration and these may require reassessment and updating.
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 42 4.15 DOC is working with Auckland Council to eradicate goats from the Hunua/ Mangatawhiri/ Vinings/ Richard Sylvan Memorial forests and Goldie Bush/ Motutara reserves. 4.16 DOC also currently employs a contract hunter to work on PCL in Auckland to target deer. Recreational hunters are used in some mainland forests where dieback is not known to be present, but only contractors are used where dieback is suspected or known, to better control biosecurity of hunters and dogs. 4.17 The Auckland region has requested additional funding, including for pig control and pest animal control in kauri forest. This funding could enable a survey of pig distribution and abundance on PCL. 4.18 DOC has produced some draft guidelines for community groups wishing to undertake fixed-line animal pest control on public conservation land. These guidelines do not cover all types of pest operations including hunting where there is limited capacity to put in structured hygiene controls. DOC in Auckland has requested that community groups stop trapping in areas with kauri. Groups can however continue to trap around the perimeter of reserves such as Forest Bridge Trust at Logues Bush or where a track is mitigated, also along the track. There is ongoing discussion with groups and mana whenua regarding adaptive pest management at specific reserves.
5. Protecting areas with no kauri dieback - What is DOC doing to identify kauri forest where there is no sign of kauri dieback? - For areas without any formed public tracks, what are DOC’s plans to protect those forests? - For areas with formed public tracks, what are DOC’s plans to protect those forests? - What are the indicators that might prompt closure of an area? - Where will DOC consider formally closing areas to all public access? - When will DOC consider formally closing areas with no kauri dieback to all public access?
5.1 Where no dieback is detected, DOC staff undertake a risk assessment to identify ways kauri dieback disease might be introduced to the site and then alter management. The scale at which this is approached can vary (e.g. catchment, reserve, multiple reserves) depending on the need. 5.2 For areas without formed public tracks the scale and method of protection will be dependent on the site. In the Hunua Ranges, an aerial pest operation was undertaken in October 2018, alleviating the risk of dieback introduction into an area where it has not been detected. Other activities are tightly controlled, including carefully managing permits, reducing wild animal numbers, closing areas or completely closing reserves (Mataitai, Vinings). 5.3 PCL with formed public tracks are carefully assessed to determine whether the track be closed, partially closed (e.g. seasonal closures, consolidating tracks), re-routed or mitigated. Factors taken into account for mitigation include whether an alternate track could be utilised nearby, the ability to successfully mitigate, mana whenua concerns, the number of users, the cost of mitigation and other factors. 5.4 Goldie Bush is an example of a reserve with kauri but with no detected kauri dieback disease. The track has been upgraded using a mixture of geoweb, boardwalk and additional metal to remove mud on track. Additional signage has been installed reminding people to stay on the track and new wash stations have been installed at
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 43 track entrances. Track ambassadors are also stationed at the wash stations at weekends, and a Controlled Area Notice (CAN) has been placed over the reserve under the Biosecurity Act. 5.5 Closure can be prompted by several factors subject to the appropriate legislation at site. A temporary closure could be prompted by health and safety, a rāhui, unmitigated areas, track degradation, weather events or other factors. Permanent closure requires a consultation process. 5.6 The department has formally closed areas to all public access where the risk is considered too high to remain open. Vinings, Mataitai, Logues Bush and Mangatawhiri are areas currently closed to all public access; however, these closures present challenges in ensuring compliance.
6. Managing areas with kauri dieback - In what ways do the track upgrade works funded by the Government help to minimise the spread of the disease? - For areas without any formed public tracks, what are DOC’s plans to protect those forests from any further spread of the disease? - For areas with formed public tracks, what are DOC’s plans to prevent the further spread of the disease? - What are the indicators that might prompt closure of a whole area? - What are the indicators that might prompt re-opening of a track?
6.1 Track upgrades minimise the spread by separating the walker from the disease, and channelling walkers to the tracks thereby ceasing the need to walk off-track. This keeps footwear from gathering muddy soil. Tracks are upgraded with cleaning stations to reduce the potential for mud to be brought onto or taken from the track system. 6.2 DOC is not intending to put new tracks into kauri forests at sites currently lacking tracks. If a track system is not to be upgraded, the track will be closed and in some cases the forest will also be closed within the legislative capacity that the department holds. 6.3 To date DOC has surveyed the entire 735km network of DOC-managed tracks in kauri forests. This involved assessing the condition of the tracks and mapping all kauri with canopy overlap of the track. Having identified 186 tracks for possible upgrade or closure, we are now in the third year of a three-year track upgrade programme. In the first two years of the programme, we upgraded 54 high priority tracks, equating to 165 km of track, and closed 13 tracks and four reserves. 6.4 In reserves with dieback and no public tracks, DOC prevents the further spread of the disease by keeping stock and wild animals out (deer, pigs and goats), providing permitted hunters with kauri dieback information, prohibiting recreational hunting from the most vulnerable areas, managing research permits and reducing pest animal numbers. 6.5 In reserves with kauri dieback and formed public tracks, track mitigation to reduce the spread of kauri dieback involves: eliminating muddy sections and protecting kauri roots by installing boardwalks or geoweb in tracks, re-routing tracks to avoid kauri, changing the allowable recreational use of tracks, installing cleaning stations at track entrances, in some instances closing (or partially closing) tracks, working with tangata whenua to place a rāhui over the site, working with MPI to place a Controlled Area Notice over the site.
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 44 6.6 DOC, with treaty partner consultation, supports the closure / rāhui of tracks and reserves to help stop the spread of kauri dieback or protect healthy trees. Closing tracks is one of our mitigation methods. 6.7 There are a range of reasons for proposing closure, including: high kauri dieback risk, low visitor numbers, high mitigation cost and the ongoing maintenance effort/cost, presence of a similar experience nearby or on a track with no kauri. 6.8 We consult with local iwi/hapū, key organisations and individuals associated with the track or reserve. All reasonable steps are taken to ensure that the public are made aware of the closure and the reasons for it. 6.9 In October, DOC announced an additional 21 track closures across kauri land to prevent the spread of kauri dieback. Additionally, 10 tracks will also be partially closed and upgraded to protect kauri roots and eliminate wet and muddy sections of track. A number of these require further investigation and consultation before closure can be confirmed. Table 1 below lists the tracks in the Auckland region (Aotea only) included in these additional closures. 6.10 The track closures are permanent; however, a track closure may be reconsidered in the future should information become available that would ensure public access would not cause any risk to kauri. 6.11 Areas with known dieback on the Auckland mainland include: Logues Bush (tracks closed to the public and a rāhui is in place), Pakiri Scenic Reserve, (no tracks), Kaukapakapa Estuary Scientific Reserve (unconfirmed, but likely to be present as it is widespread in private covenants at Dairy Flat, but not detected on PCL as yet), Okura Bush Scenic Reserve (reserve currently closed, rāhui in place, track being upgraded, no access off track, aerially mapped), Albany Scenic Reserve (track & reserve closed), Goldie Bush (soil samples have been recently taken from two trees in Goldie Bush beside the track, but results are not available yet).
7. Controlled area notices - Where have controlled area notices been applied? - What is the effect of a controlled area notice?
7.1 Controlled Area Notices (CANs) are issued by the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) under Section 131 of the Biosecurity Act 1993. 7.2 The department currently has a CAN in place across PCL in the southern Hunua Ranges and Goldie Bush / Motutara Scenic Reserve. 7.3 Without a CAN, all compliance with forest biosecurity that helps protect kauri is voluntary. The CAN makes it a legal requirement to remove all visible soil from footwear and equipment. The CAN is aimed at getting people to follow the right biosecurity hygiene practices and help protect kauri. We recognise many people will want to do the right thing but there may be some who do not. For that reason, in certain circumstances the CAN provides the option for DOC to take appropriate action for non-compliance, including potential prosecution. 7.4 DOC, which controls the land the CAN applies to, will be responsible for public education about and monitoring compliance with the CAN. MPI will support this education and compliance activity with signage and public notices that tell people that this CAN is coming into effect. 7.5 DOC rangers have been trained and appointed as Authorised Persons under section 104 of the Biosecurity Act. This allows them to exercise powers to enforce the requirements of the CAN and monitor public compliance.
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 45 7.6 Moving goods in contravention of the movement controls or procedures established by a CAN without the permission of an inspector or authorised person is an offence. If convicted, this offence carries a maximum penalty of up to three months’ imprisonment or a fine of $50,000, or both (for an individual) or a fine of $100,000 (for a corporation). 7.7 DOC staff and contractors are also subject to the conditions of the CANs. The exemption applies to where in the forest they can go and what equipment / machinery they can bring in or out. Any machinery must be thoroughly cleaned.
8. Public information and education - How is the Department working with other agencies to coordinate providing the public with information and education? - What efforts are being made to create behaviour change and improved understanding among the public? - How is DOC engaging with particular user groups such as:
o Hunters o Runners and sports people o Concessionaires - How does DOC keep the public informed about what it is doing in the region?
8.1 Kauri dieback advocacy is a priority for the Auckland Region. Activities planned for 2018-2019 include: a Track ambassadors have been and will be placed at strategic locations across the region to educate the public on kauri dieback and ensure effective compliance with the new wash stations. At Goldie Bush, the ambassador started Labour Weekend and is warranted to enforce the CAN. The ambassador for Dome Valley will be stationed from 1 December and at Okura when the Reserve re-opens in the New Year. b A kauri dieback ranger is also planned for Aotea to liaise with Auckland Council in providing information to visitors on Aotea and ensuring compliance with hygiene requirements. c Additional signage and interpretation at sites with kauri have been developed and implemented. This information reinforces the need to stay on the track, provides information on customary rāhui, explains what kauri dieback disease is and why kauri are significant. d A training module for community groups looking to undertake trapping in areas with kauri is being developed in partnership with Auckland Council. e Increased public advocacy at events such as the NZ Flower and Garden Show, Auckland Botanic Gardens and Wharf to Wharf on Great Barrier Island are underway in partnership with Auckland Council. f Promotion of the Kiwi Guardian biosecurity medal: the DOC community team will target schools and youth groups near DOC reserves with kauri to ensure young people are engaged in kauri dieback. g A series of educational films for social media explaining how to use the new wash stations are currently being developed for release prior to summer. 8.2 DOC is also participating in an MPI hui to review all kauri dieback collateral which is due to be revised and released in 2019.
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 46 8.3 Using behavioural science to encourage the compliance behaviour of visitors to our kauri forests is a relatively new initiative. Our research shows that being well-informed does not necessarily translate into people taking action to prevent dieback spreading. What does seem to have an effect is establishing a ‘social norm’ - if people see a strong investment in good cleaning stations and signage, and see other people using cleaning stations, they are far more likely to use them. 8.4 A Kauri Dieback Behavior Change Ranger is currently employed to research public behavior around wash stations this summer. They will be trialling several different initiatives such as pledge walls, surveillance cameras, ‘watching eye’ signage and track ambassadors. This research has been used to inform development of cleaning stations to date and will continue to inform their future design. 8.5 MPI has established a kauri dieback behaviour change working group to build forest user group understanding and engage a research partner to build a Community Based Social Marketing (CBSM) approach with priority user groups. These groups include private landowners, community groups, tangata whenua, hunters, recreational users, local residents, contractors, international tourists, domestic tourists, schools and nurseries. The working group has representatives from DOC, Auckland Council, Waikato Council, Northland Regional Council and tangata whenua and hopes to generate results by mid-2019. 8.6 Public are kept informed of kauri dieback in the region via the DOC website, DOC media releases, DOC social media posts, the Kauri Dieback Programme website, Auckland Council websites, kauri dieback collateral/ publications distributed at place and at events and through our partner networks.
9. Resources 9.1 Since December 2014, the Kauri Dieback Programme has had an annual budget of approximately $836,500 to build knowledge and tools to help combat kauri dieback disease. 9.2 In 2014, DOC was allocated an extra $21.634 million funding to help manage the spread of kauri dieback. This is comprised of $11 million capital and $11 million operating which had to be spent by 2017. 9.3 The Kauri Dieback Recreation Project has been extended until July 2019. After that point the work will become business as usual for the DOC Operations team. 9.4 DOC has recently established a national kauri dieback programme to manage projects across regions. 9.5 In the 2018 – 2019 funding period, each of the DOC Districts with kauri have put together additional funding requests to support on-going maintenance of upgraded tracks, and additional operational funding. Requests have been made for additional funding to support pest control, monitoring, additional wash stations, public advocacy and additional staffing to accelerate our kauri protection work. Districts are expecting to know the outcomes of these requests any day now.
10. Science and research - What is DOC’s contribution to kauri dieback research? - Is there any research into the effectiveness of management protocols?
10.1 The national Kauri Dieback Programme led by MPI, receives a financial contribution from the department to add to the research pool every year. The Planning and Intelligence workstream has been responsible for looking at research priorities and
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 47 funding them. A summary of this research is available on the kauri dieback website: https://www.kauridieback.co.nz/science-and-research/ 10.2 There has been limited other research carried out by DOC. To date research by DOC has targeted historical information gathering of sites, developing track mitigation processes and dealing with cleaning stations and behaviour change. 10.3 Research has been carried out to ascertain if cleaning stations are harbouring the disease and if users are still carrying dieback following use of the wash pads. 10.4 There has been extensive research on the effectiveness of phosphite to stop lesions as part of the development of that protocol. However, it is likely that measuring effectiveness of such programmes to “save” stands will take a decade because kauri health recovers very slowly in comparison to other trees. 10.5 There has been some research on the effectiveness of track closures by Auckland Council. DOC has not yet carried out work on the effectiveness of its track closures in managing access. However, anecdotal evidence shows that closures of high-use tracks have been less effective than at rural sites, due to the large number of people still accessing closed tracks. 10.6 The latency for the disease could be decades in the larger trees which makes the ability to determine the effectiveness of track mitigation difficult. The Kauri Dieback Recreation Project is currently considering a review of track mitigation methods.
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 48 Table 1. List of 2018 Track closures in the Aotea Region District Track Final Partial Rationale office decision closure details Great Whangaparapara Full • Kauri protection - large numbers Barrier Pack Track/Link closure of kauri. Island Track • Track is within 4000m of positive site. • Track is already closed due to a slip. • Historic values are low - there are better historic experiences available. • There are alternative tracks available in the vicinity. Great Whangaparapara Full • Kauri protection - large numbers Barrier Peak Track closure of kauri. Island • Steep climb with not much of a view. • Track traverses across kauri roots. Great Old Lady Walk Partial Close • Kauri protection - the closed Barrier Closure track from the section of track protects large Island lookout on the numbers of kauri. loop section • The track to the lookout is still down to the retained. main track.
Upgrade the remaining section of track.
DOC-5628981 Author John Galilee Date 5 November 2018 49 50 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 10 Meeting No 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: George Taylor, Operations Manager
Subject: Biodiversity management update
Objectives & A function of the Advisory Committee is to provide advice to the functions Department on management issues such as threatened species, weed and pest control, restoration and hunting (objective (a) in the Terms of Reference).
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Advisory Committee: Action Required a) Receive the paper and verbal updates.
Context The Advisory Committee has discussed and provided advice on a number of biodiversity issues at each meeting. This item is an opportunity to discuss biodiversity management issues that have arisen at previous meetings, or that have arisen since the last meeting in September, as well as biodiversity related matters covered in the Operations Report (see Agenda Item 14). These include: • management of pests at Hirakimata; • pest and weed control; • restoration initiatives across the island; • Bring Back Kōkakō project update; • myrtle rust; and • Rakitū project update
Attached for reference during the Hirakimata item is the executive summary from a report by John Ogden, prepared for the Great Barrier Island Environmental Trust, about the performance of A24 traps over two years for trapping rats at the site. Kauri dieback and pāteke recovery will be discussed as separate agenda items (Items 10 & 12).
DOC-5567513 Author John Galilee Date 21 November 2018 51 52 REPORT ON RAT TRAPPING and PERFORMANCE OF A24 MULTI-KILL TRAPS ON HIRAKIMATA OVER TWO YEARS.
GREAT BARRIER ISLAND ENVIRONMENTAL TRUST
John Ogden May 2018
Rat approaches A24 trap 3 from above. 12.10 AM 3rd March. Eventually enters from below at 2.04 AM and is killed.
53 Executive Summary
° The relative abundance of rats (Rattus rattus) on the summit of Hirakimata (Mt. Hobson) and at Windy Canyon was assessed using 10 GoodNature A24 multi-kill traps fitted with counters at each location during two seven-week periods (phases), in the summers of 2016-17 and 2017-18.
° Each year, the first phase was timed to coincide with a period of relatively low rat abundance, while the second coincided with the expected peak in rat numbers.
° No statistically consistent numerical difference was found between the two locations or years. On average 5.1 rats were caught at each monitoring at Windy Canyon and 3.6 on Hirakimata. These values can be taken as approximate estimated densities/ha.
° The reduction in rat numbers on the summit in March-April 2017 was statistically significant and contrary expected seasonal rat abundance trends. It is suggested that cat predation on rats could have been a factor.
° In the second year, rat numbers mirrored the expected pattern.
° The first monitoring sample at Windy Canyon gave the greatest kill in both years.
° The addition of peanut butter to the inside margin of the A24 shroud was thought to attract rats to the trap, but photographic evidence showed that it did not entice them to enter it. Overall the addition of peanut butter did not change the trapping rate.
° Night photography showed reluctance by rats to enter the A24s. It took from 5 to 9 hr and from 11 to 15 individually short visits before the rat entered the trap and activated it.
° The addition peanut butter to the shroud margin may have delayed rat entry into the shroud as they ate it first. (Smearing lure material below the trap might also delay entry).
° The counters supplied with the A24 traps were unreliable. Under-estimating actual kills occurred in 33 and 54% of cases in each year. Had counters alone been relied upon the number of rats killed would have been underestimated up to 30%. Fewer than 40% of counters were accurate.
° The chocolate baits in the automatic lure pumps (ALPs) fitted to the A24s were found to frequently skin over and mostly ceased to extrude as intended in less than 17 weeks. The ALPs were considered dysfunctional more than 50% of the time in Phase 2.
° It is recommended: (1) that the co-managing agencies and all researchers cooperate to improve understanding of the summit ecosystem and the role of predators, and that more information of this sort is made available to the public; (2) that GoodNature and other relevant agencies be advised of the problems with their traps; (3) that an assessment of cat diet is made using trapped cats and/or scats; (4) that the traps be left in place and the study repeated, and (5) that the importance of Hirakimata as a biodiversity hot-spot and the main world colony of black petrels be more widely recognised, both on Great Barrier and in the wider region.
54 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 11 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: George Taylor, Operations Manager
Subject: Pateke
ACPAC Strategic The item relates to all the objectives and functions of the Priority and/or the Advisory Committee as set out in the Terms of Reference and Relevant DOC SOI Procedures. Goal
Recommendation or a) Receive the update on Pateke for the last month Action Required
Context The Advisory Committee is updated on the pateke situation on Aotea at each meeting • Research on impact of rats on pateke • Update on programme
DOCCM-5494754 Author Fenella Christian Date: 21 November 2018 55 56 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 12 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Shyrel Vurt - Auckland Council
Subject: Great Barrier Village Local Parks Plan
ACPAC Strategic The item relates to all the objectives and functions of the Advisory Priority and/or the Committee as set out in the Terms of Reference and Procedures. Relevant DOC SOI Goal
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Advisory Committee Action Required • Note the contents of the discussion on the Great Barrier Village Local Parks Plan The Advisory Committee is updated on the Great Barrier Village Context Local Parks Plan and what it is about and what is required for this plan. • Maps will be provided at meeting • Link: https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/have-your- say/topics-you-can-have-your-say-on/great-barrier-parks- plan/Pages/ways-to-have-your-say.aspx
DOCCM-5494754 Author Fenella Christian Date 21 November 2018 57 58 Great Barrier Village Parks Plan : About the Great Barrier Village Parks Plan Page 1 of 2
Home Have your say and help shape Auckland Topics you can have your say on
Great Barrier Village Parks Plan
Have your say
Happening now
Submit feedback online
Great Barrier Island has a range of community spaces and reserves in each of its settlements that are unique within Auckland.
Many of the village parks are small and lack facilities, and many of them are found on beachfront areas, small playgrounds, unformed roads and walkways.
There are only a few grass areas on the island that are large enough for sports, and some settlements have open space in school grounds, club grounds, DOC reserves or campsites.
We want to hear from you about how you use these spaces, and what we can do to encourage you to use them more often.
59 https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/have-your-say/topics-you-can-have-your-say-on... 30/11/2018 Great Barrier Village Parks Plan : About the Great Barrier Village Parks Plan Page 2 of 2
We also want to know how we can work better with organisations that provide parks or facilities that are used by the wider communities.
You can have your say from 31 October to 7 December 2018.
We will then analyse your feedback and use it to create a draft plan about the future of these community spaces.
60 https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/have-your-say/topics-you-can-have-your-say-on... 30/11/2018 Great Barrier Village Parks Plan : Ways to have your say on the Great Barrier Village ... Page 1 of 2
Home Have your say and help shape Auckland Topics you can have your say on
Great Barrier Village Parks Plan Ways to have your say on the Great Barrier Village Parks Plan
Have your say
Happening now
Submit feedback online
Submit feedback online
61 https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/have-your-say/topics-you-can-have-your-say-on... 30/11/2018 Great Barrier Village Parks Plan : Ways to have your say on the Great Barrier Village ... Page 2 of 2
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Date Time Venue
Saturday 1 10am-12pm Christmas Market December 2018 and Parade, Great Barrier Island Sports and Social Club, 19 Whangaparapara Road
Sunday 2 December 10am-12pm Okiwi Community 2018 Room, 1 Maybey Road, Okiwi
Sunday 2 December 2pm-4pm Tryphena 2018 Community Hall, 1 Medland Road, Tryphena
62 https://www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/have-your-say/topics-you-can-have-your-say-on... 30/11/2018 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 13 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Andrew Baucke, Director, Operations
Subject: Director’s report
ACPAC Strategic The Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee represents Priority and/or the the community of interest in the work of the Department. The Relevant DOC SOI item relates to all the objectives and functions of the Director Goal Operations as set out in the Terms of Reference and Procedures.
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Action Required Committee: a) Note the contents of this paper.
Context This information is provided so that the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee is aware of current Director work and priorities in the Auckland region, especially that related to significant or high-risk projects. The Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee may choose to provide advice to the Department on any of these matters if it wishes to. These matters are as follow: National Context 1. Tragic Helicopter Crash near Wanaka where two staff and the pilot lost their lives, Scott Theobald, Paul Hondelink and pilot Nick Wallis. 2. Operation Safeguard, threats and intimidation on DOC staff. 3. State Services reform is moving to a joined-up agencies approach. 4. The Government’s well-being budget will use Treasury’s Living Standards Framework to inform investment priorities. 5. A national taskforce has been established to focus on Freshwater Reform. 6. Budget ramp up: budget 2018 provides a $181.62 million funding increase over the next four years, comprising the following: • $81.28 million for enhancing biodiversity by controlling and eradicating predators; • $76 million as a contingency for biodiversity (freshwater,
DOC-3023424 Author Andrew Baucke Date 5 November 2018 63 marine, terrestrial); • $16.24 million for strengthening DOC's organisational capacity and capability (Policy, asset management, core organisational capability); • $5.5 million for managing the impacts of increasing numbers of visitors to public conservation land; • $2.6 million for enhancing biodiversity protection in the Mackenzie Basin. 7. Four new Biosecurity positions in the region.
Regional Context 1. We have now moved into the new office in Bledisloe House. 2. The Pou Tairangahau vacancy has been advertised and we are engaging with the Auckland Conservation Board to support interviews. 3. Hunua 1080 operation complete which included several adjoining DOC reserves. Some security issues and staff harassment. 4. Motutapu cow burial in December 2017 has raised issues with Heritage New Zealand and Ngai tai. 5. Motutapu farm grazing lease expired; currently under process for new lease arrangement. 6. Rangitoto Asbestos, delays in tender process. 7. Legal delays continue for the Rangitoto baches application.
DOC-3023424 Author Andrew Baucke Date 5 November 2018 64 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 14 Meeting No 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: George Taylor, Operations Manager Aotea Great Barrier Island
Subject: Operations Report
Objectives & The operations report is an ongoing report to the Advisory functions Committee to ensure that it is fully informed on the activities of the Department within the Aotea Conservation Park. This report also specifically addresses a request from the previous meeting for further information on how the work programme relates to the CMS milestones.
Recommendation or It is recommended that the ACPAC: Action Required a) Receive the paper; b) Provide feedback the contents of this paper c) Use this information to further develop priorities for the Committee
Context To ensure the Advisory Committee to remain up to date regarding the activities of the Department during the course of the year, a standing operations report agenda item provides this information for members. The Committee has also requested ongoing information how the work programme contributes towards meeting the CMS milestones.
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 65 66
Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 14 Meeting No 10
REPORT Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: George Taylor, Operations Manager Aotea Great Barrier Island
Subject: Operations Report
Background/Introduction 1. The operations report is an ongoing report to the Advisory Committee to ensure that it is fully informed on the activities of the Department within the Aotea Conservation Park. 2. The report also updates the committee of progress towards meeting the CMS milestones for Aotea Conservation Park and Aotea Great Barrier Island.
Work Programme Activities Since Meeting on 17 September 2018 Aotea Conservation Park Work programme highlights relevant to Aotea Conservation Park since the last meeting include:
Biodiversity
3. Pateke Protection: Cat trapping around the margins of the Whangapoua estuary has finished for the season. A further knock down of cat numbers is planned for December, before the programme starts up again in full in January. The report for the 2017-18 season has been completed and is available on request. The report shows a rise in flock count numbers for the first time in several years. However, pateke numbers are still relatively low island wide.
4. Dotterel breeding season has begun: Dotterel nests are particularly vulnerable to disturbance by people and dogs. Nests will be identified with signage and fenced off in high risk areas.
5. Hirakimatā rat trapping: Auckland Council and the local board have confirmed the availability of 250 GoodNature self-resetting rat traps for use on Hirakimatā. We will be investigating the potential implementation of a trapping network ready for the summer of 2019/20.
6. Takotetai/Black Petrel protection: the cat-trapping contract work for Hirakimatā began in November and will run through to the end December. Two cats have already been caught. Trapping aims to protect the black petrel as they arrive home from migration to re-establish their burrows and are particularly vulnerable to cat predation. Further trapping will be required April-May when chicks are fledging.
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 67 7. Rabbit Control: Intermittent control continues around the Okiwi Basin area by the DOC Biodiversity Ranger. Nonetheless, we are seeing rabbit numbers starting to increase. Following on from May’s successful intensive cull, further control is planned for April 2019.
8. Myrtle Rust has not been confirmed present on Aotea/GBI. Current work aims to prepare for seed collection. Surveillance on vulnerable species will occur as required.
9. The Planting season for this year has come to a close with approximately 600 eco- sourced natives going into the ground on at Okiwi Station. Seed collection for next season is already underway, with plants to be raised in the DOC nursery.
Recreation / Historic
10. Tracks and huts: Further confusion has been experienced by users due to the lack of directional signage which was removed by unknown members of the public over the winter months, particularly for users of the Aotea track. Some people have missed connections because of this. The team are doing their best to replace the missing signs and hope to have them all back in place for the summer months.
Preparation for the upcoming summer months has also included the emptying of toilet vaults throughout the island in November.
11. Campgrounds: The campground hosts will be in place for each campsite from 22 December to the end of January.
12. Kauri Dieback Track Closures: DOC’s track closure programme, which assessed the risk of kauri dieback spread, has been completed. For Aotea the decision has been made to permanently close the Whangaparapara Peak Track, Whangaparapara Pack Track and a section of the Old Lady Track from 31 January 2019.
The track closure programme included a public consultation process. A small number of submissions were received opposing the proposed Aotea closures, these were carefully considered with feedback provided to submitters. Reasons behind the closures were primarily related to the exposure to kauri root systems and the high risk of soil transfer, with visitor numbers compared to the cost of upgrades and important consideration. The Whangaparapara pack track has been closed since it was damaged in the 2014 storm.
13. Kauri Dieback: Further capital upgrade work for tracks is planned for the upcoming summer on the Whitheys, Maungapiko (lookout track), Kiwiriki, Tramline (partial), South Fork, Old Lady, Old Mill and Bridle tracks. Kiwiriki and South Fork tracks will be significant in terms of scale. Planning is underway to address temporary track closures during the construction period.
Funding has been made available for two kauri dieback “Track Ambassadors” to be employed for the summer visitor season, specifically to deliver messaging about the disease, the track closures and to help at wash stations. The two positions will be flexible in terms of work hours and will co-ordinate with similar approaches from Auckland Council.
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 68 There are also plans in place for developing and delivering community workshops to further understand the implications of Kauri Dieback disease.
Community
14. Farewell John Wii: It was with sadness that the DOC team joined family and friends to farewell John Wii at Motairehe Marae on Thursday 22 November. John was a valued conservationist for Aotea, having been newly appointed as a member of ACPAC. The team are focused on supporting the Wii family, especially DOC Community Ranger Cara Fraider through this difficult time. Kia au te moe, rest in peace John.
15. Conservation Week 15-23 September: The DOC team invited Te kura o Okiwi to attend a planting day on Okiwi Station. All tamariki from the school participated alongside teachers and DOC rangers, followed by a sausage sizzle hosted at the DOC office. Around 300 eco-sourced natives were planted, to provide further habitat for native birds, including our taonga species pateke which has its stronghold in the Okiwi Basin.
16. Wharf2wharf Sporting Event: DOC staff provided kauri dieback wash stations and advocacy for the event on the day. Two DOC staff also competed: Ian McNickle (Supervisor) in the 42K MTB and George Taylor (Operations Manager) in the Half Marathon.
Permissions
17. A summary of permissions processed is included in a separate report to this committee
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 69 Activities Outside the Aotea Conservation Park Work programme highlights outside Aotea Conservation Park since the last meeting include: Biodiversity
1. Rakitū Rodent Eradication Project: the second and final bait application took place on 13 September. DOC’s first post-operational trip to the island was completed in October and included bait monitoring, five-minute bird counts, lizard transects and rodent monitoring.
The Biodiversity team installed the tracking tunnel network and completed the first tracking tunnel run. Tracking tunnel cards were set with peanut butter for three nights with results showing rodent prints in zero out of 48 tunnels. Five of the tunnels showed skink prints.
While these results are positive, ongoing monitoring will be required. The island will not be able to be officially declared rodent free for another two years.
Biosecurity is now the top priority for the team, with strict measures in place for both DOC staff, contactors, researchers and the island’s bach leasees to avoid a rodent incursion, including collaboration with Auckland Council’s Pest Free Hauraki programme.
Copper Skink found during Rakitū Island lizard monitoring in October
Marine monitoring for Rakitū Project: the ten sampling bait holders containing live mussels anchored around Rakitū and on the east coast of Aotea were collected after the final brodifacoum application. Testing has yet to be completed.
Weka for Rakitū Project: the weka captured from Rakitū prior to the operation continue to be housed at Pukaha/Mt Bruce.
Of the original 64 transferred, there have been two losses in captivity early on after the translocation, and a further two losses due to aggressive behaviour as breeding began. DOC continues to monitor bait breakdown on Rakitū and are aiming to relocate the weka in the coming months.
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 70 7 dead weka were collected from Rakitū after the first bait application and presented at DOC Aotea by members of Aotea Poison Free in August. DOC has always acknowledged the potential loss of weka during the operation due to their susceptibly to brodifacoum. The carcasses have been sent for post-mortem to confirm cause of death; we are awaiting the results.
2. Mokohinau Islands: The biodiversity team completed a tracking tunnel run this October, with no rodent sign detected. A research group are heading out to the Islands after closure of the oi (mutton bird) season to search for the Mokohinau stag beetle. The aim is to determine whether this rare and endemic beetle is still present in the island group, its only known habitat.
3. Plague Skink Project: this year’s work is underway to further develop methodologies and hopefully ensure eradication is still an option in twelve months’ time. If eradication is still an option, this will likely need considerable financial investment. Concern is being shown about the second incursion on Omanawa Lane in Tryphena.
Community
1. Te Pukenga Atawhai: the final week of October saw Kawa Marae host around twenty DOC staff from across the Auckland region for Te Pukenga Atawhai DOC training course. The four-day course, run by the Department’s Kahui Kaupapa Atawhai staff and hosted by Kawa Marae included taking DOC staff through tikanga or protocol on marae, te Ao Māori and DOC’s responsibilities under the Conservation Act to uphold the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi. The intensive course is held up to eight times a year at different marae around Aotearoa. This was the second Pukenga for Kawa Marae and Aotea, and despite the wintery weather staff enjoyed the island, the highlight the hospitality received at Kawa.
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 71 Staffing and Infrastructure
1. The team is settled now with all vacancies filled and casual staff in place to provide further support. Most staff housing is also occupied leaving limited space for visitors.
2. Sandi Van Leeuwen has been appointed on a part-time casual basis to assist the biodiversity team, primarily with nursery management. 3. Amy Bullough will come on board in December for the summer season as a Kauri Dieback Track Ambassador.
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 72
CMS Milestones Links to Existing Work Programme
Milestones for Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) Place – Completed end of Year 3 (2017)
Milestone Description Related Project / Work Underway Status Number 14.2.3.1 Scheduled outputs identified in approved work programmes for the following priority ecosystem units located in this Place: Mount Young and Northern Great Barrier. 14.2.3.2 Identification of sites for intensive pest The Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee has identified management to ensure the recovery and priority areas for intensive pest control in the park. There is also persistence of threatened species. intention to work with the local board through the ecology vision process 14.2.3.3 Heritage assessments for all actively Remaining sites awaiting assessments forwarded to historic managed historic sites on Great Barrier technical staff for feedback. At present undertaking further Island. assessments have been put on hold due to other work priorities for the national technical team. 14.2.3.4 Successful eradication of rats from Rakitu Bait applications have been completed. Post operation monitoring is Island. underway
14.2.3.6 Report on the technical feasibility of Completed. Technical feasability report prepared. returning kōkako to Great Barrier Island.
14.2.3.7 Establishment of a monitoring programme Informal monitoring occurring and documented by way of file notes to assess the effects of camping activity in Te Paparahi.
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 73 Milestones for Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) Place – Completed end of Year 5 (2019)
Milestone Description Related Project / Work Underway Status Number 14.2.3.8 Return of North Island kōkako to Te A number of complex issues including pest control options will need to Paparahi be addressed if this is to be achieved. The project has been on hold since the original project manager passed away
14.2.3.9 Sustained control of plant pests that
disrupt ecosystem processes and threaten indigenous species in Te Paparahi. 14.2.3.10 Report on the outcome of monitoring Report will be submitted in 2019. programme on the effects of camping activity in Te Paparahi. 14.2.3.11 Mountain biking trial on Harataonga Mt biking is currently occurring on the track. Ongoing monitoring will be Track, with results of monitoring undertaken evaluated and decision made on whether mountain biking use will be permanently allowed.
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 74
Milestones for Great Barrier Island (Aotea Island) Place – Completed end of Year 10 (2024)
Milestone Description Related Project / Work Underway Status Number 14.2.3.12 Report on the outcomes of monitoring All programmes have a monitoring programme to determine whether programme and management actions management actions suitable or sufficient. Need to ensure reviews are identified to assess changes. regularly undertaken and any changes if necessary made
14.2.3.13 Extension of track network to coastal No consideration given to this milestone yet sites.
14.2.3.14 Reintroduction of threatened species to Current focus on rat eradication project. Commitment to also look at long Rakitu Island, subject to restoration and term future of weka and more detailed restoration planning. species recovery plans. 14.2.3.15 Report on progress achieved from Good base relationships currently in place between Council staff, Local working collaboratively with Auckland Board and DOC team. Council and the island community towards protection of the values on Also joint/complimentary programmes for Plaque Skink control, Mrytle conservation land from the effects of species seed collection, weed control, rat control on Broken islands, Rat pests. monitoring Mokohinau Islands, support for Glenfern sanctuary, Kotuku Peninsula and Windy Hill projects
DOCCM-5633946 George Taylor Date: 27 November 2018 75 76 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item:15 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Rebecca Rush, Senior Ranger/Supervisor, Community, Tāmaki Makaurau/ Auckland Mainland
Subject: Concessions report
Objectives & A function of the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee is functions to provide the Director-General with advice and information to aid management of the Aotea Conservation Park, including providing advice on applications for statutory consents (concessions and permits).
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Advisory Committee: Action Required a) Note the contents of this paper; and note the criteria for assessing concessions
Context This information is provided so that the Committee is aware of current statutory applications being processed by the Department. The Committee may choose to provide advice to the Department on any applications if it wishes to. The attached schedule lists all statutory applications currently being processed, as well as all recently approved applications.
DOCCM-5631137 Author: Rebecca Rush Date: 27 November 2018 77
DOCCM-5631137 Author: Rebecca Rush Date: 27 November 2018 78 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 15 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Rebecca Rush, Senior Ranger/Supervisor, Community, Tāmaki Makaurau/ Auckland Mainland
Subject: Concessions report
Background/Introduction 1. A report summarising all statutory applications is provided at every Committee meeting.
Details/Comment 2. Table 1(a) below provides a list of statutory applications currently being processed for Aotea Conservation Park. 3. Table 1(b) below provides a list of statutory applications where processing was completed between 1 September and 27 November 2018 for Aotea Conservation Park. 4. Table 2(a) below provides a list of statutory applications being currently processed for the wider Aotea/Great Barrier area, including the waters around Aotea/Great Barrier. 5. Table 2(b) below provides a list of statutory applications where processing was completed between 1 September and 27 November 2018 for the wider Aotea/Great Barrier area, including the waters around Aotea/Great Barrier.
Section 4 Conservation Act 6. To meet the Treaty of Waitangi principle of informed decision making, it is usual practice for relevant whanau/hapu/iwi to be consulted on all statutory applications.
DOCCM-5631137 Author: Rebecca Rush Date: 27 November 2018 79 Table 1(a): Aotea Conservation Park: applications currently being processed (as at 27 November 2018)
Permission Applicant Permission type Proposed activity Location(s) within Aotea Application Triggered to number name Conservation Park date ACPAC? 63770-FAU Tonkin & Permit to operate an Electric fishing for the Wadeable rivers and streams in 16/11/2017 No – activity unlikely Taylor Ltd electric fishing device purposes of fish salvage and Aotea Conservation Park, as well as to occur in Aotea relocation the rest of New Zealand Conservation Park as associated with development activities 69582-GUI Once Upon a Concession permit non- Guided walking Aotea Track, as well as Harataonga 24/8/2018 Yes Trip Ltd notified Track and other locations around New Zealand 70735-FAU Richard Wildlife Act permit Catch, take samples from, Aotea Conservation Park, as well as 12/9/2018 Yes Gibson mark, rehabilitate and transfer other locations in the Auckland mokomoko/lizards and region and around New Zealand pepeketua/frogs 70843-GUI Hiking New Concession permit non- Guided walking Aotea Track, as well as other 26/9/2018 Yes Zealand Ltd notified locations in the Auckland region and around New Zealand 71046-FAU Marieke Wildlife Act permit Survey & monitoring of Aotea Conservation Park, as well as 17/10/2018 To be determined – Lettink mokomoko/lizards other locations in the Auckland further information region and around in New Zealand currently being sought from applicant about locations 71414-RES Institute of Research & collection Placement of temporary Aotea Conservation Park, as well as 23/11/2018 To be determined – Geological & permit scientific equipment to collect other locations around New Zealand processing not yet Nuclear GPS data to improve the underway Sciences Ltd understanding of time varying (GNS) deformation in New Zealand and evaluate the impact on short and long term hazard for upper crustal faults in both the North and South Island
DOCCM-5631137 Author: Rebecca Rush Date: 27 November 2018 80 Table 1(b): Aotea Conservation Park: applications processed between 1 September & 27 November 2018
Permission Applicant Permission Activity Location(s) within Aotea Status Approved number type Conservation Park term 67878-RES University of Permit to Electric fishing to investigate the Waterways within Aotea Conservation Park, Active 10/9/2018 – Waikato operate an biology and abundance of as well as the rest of New Zealand 9/9/2028 electric fishing introduced pest fish, and their device effects on the environment and aquatic communities. 65543-FLO Lincoln Research & Collection of the plants inaka Aotea Conservation Park, and other Active 1/10/2018 – University collection (Dracophyllum patens/Great locations around New Zealand 31/10/2022 permit Barrier inaka) & neinei (Dracophyllum latifolium/spider wood). 68165-LAN Road Concession Driving, parking, embarking/ No locations approved in the Aotea Active 1/10/2018 – Transport permit non- disembarking passengers Conservation Park nor rest of Auckland 30/9/2028 Association notified region New Zealand Inc 69361-FAU Auckland Wildlife Act Catch, handle, take or destroy Potentially Aotea Conservation Park, as Active 12/11/2018 – Council permit eggs and kill protected lizard well as rest of Auckland region 11/11/2023 species as part of plague skink eradication projects, and monitoring and research of lizards and frogs 71170-AIR Kim Hewitt Concession Recreational drone use Aotea Conservation Park, specifically Old Approved 22/12/2018 – one-off permit Mill Track, Old Lady Walk, Warren’s Creek 31/12/2018 Link & Bridle Track and Kaitoke Hot Springs Track
DOCCM-5631137 Author: Rebecca Rush Date: 27 November 2018 81 Table 2(a): Other public conservation land within Aotea/Great Barrier Island District: applications currently being processed (as at 27 November 2018)
Permission Applicant Permission type Proposed activity Location(s) Application Status number name date 69340-FAU Manu Bird Wildlife Act permit Biodiversity research including Auckland region and Kauri Coast 20/7/2018 Pending birds, mokomoko/lizards, and freshwater fish 69551-FAU Mark Wildlife Act permit Survey and salvage of Auckland and Waikato regions 21/8/2018 Pending Yungnickel mokomoko/lizards 71080-MAR University of Marine mammal permit Research on Bryde’s whales Hauraki Gulf Marine Park 23/10/2018 Pending Auckland and pygmy blue whales, including use of drones
Table 2(b): Other public conservation land within Aotea/Great Barrier Island District: applications processed between 1 September & 27 November 2018
Permission Applicant Permission Activity Location(s) Status Approved number type term 68061-OTH Ecology New Permit to Electric fishing for the purposes Private land in the Auckland and Active 20/9/2018 – Zealand Ltd operate an of fish salvage and relocation Canterbury regions 19/9/2023 electric fishing device 63877-MAR Ingrid Visser Marine Leopard seal research Waters throughout New Zealand, including Active 30/10/2018 – mammal permit around Aotea 29/10/2028 70910-FAU Stefanie Ismar Wildlife Act Seabird research Mokohinau Islands Nature Reserve, Active 1/11/2018 – permit Burgess Island Scenic Reserve, Mahuki 31/10/2019 Island, as well as other locations in the Auckland and Northland regions 69346-DOA Elise Bishop Wildlife Act Holding toroa/albatross bones Bones collected from Kaitoke Beach, Aotea Declined N/A permit for artwork 70667-FAU Thomas Bodey Wildlife Act Research on banded rail on Motu Kaikoura Scenic Reserve Declined N/A 70669-DOA permit / Motu Kaikoura, including 70670-RES Research & collection of dead specimens 70703-DOA collection and export of samples permit
DOCCM-5631137 Author: Rebecca Rush Date: 27 November 2018 82 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 16 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Rebecca Rush, Senior Ranger/Supervisor, Community, Tāmaki Makaurau/ Auckland Mainland
Subject: Criteria for assessing concessions report
Objectives & A function of the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee is functions to provide the Director-General with advice and information to aid management of the Aotea Conservation Park, including providing advice on applications for statutory consents (concessions and permits) (objective (f) of the Terms of Reference refers).
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Advisory Committee: Action Required a) Note the contents of this paper.
Context This information is provided so that the Committee is aware of criteria the Department uses to assess concession applications.
83
84 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 16 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Rebecca Rush, Senior Ranger/Supervisor, Community, Tāmaki Makaurau/ Auckland Mainland
Subject: Criteria for assessing concessions report
Background/Introduction 1. The Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee has requested that the Department provide some information about how concession applications are assessed.
Details/Comment Role of Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee in concessions 2. The Terms of Reference and procedures for Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee states that the objectives and functions of the Committee are: “To provide the Director-General with advice and information to aid management of the Aotea Conservation Park including on the following matters: (f) Commenting on applications for statutory consents including concessions and permits;” The Committee’s role in concessions and permits is therefore advisory.
3. The Committee is best to focus on providing advice at a policy level, rather than at a detailed operational level. Advice should focus on whether or not a proposed activity is appropriate for the location when considered in the context of: • The purpose of the land i.e. its statutory classification, in this case, conservation park; • The Conservation General Policy 2005; • The Auckland Conservation Management Strategy 2014 – 2024.
4. Advice provided by the Committee on matters that are outside the scope of relevant legislation cannot be considered by decision-makers. For example, whether a concession brings economic benefit to the location it is to be undertaken in is not something the Department can consider under Part 3B of the Conservation Act
Criteria for assessing concession applications 5. The Conservation Act 1987 sets out the matters than must be considered by decision- makers when making a decision on an application for a concession. These matters, taken from Part 3B of the Act, form the base for the assessment of all concession applications. The table below sets out these matters.
85 Criteria Section of Assessment Conservation Act NB: note that this is not an exhaustive list
Contents of Section 17S An application must include: application • a description of proposed activity; • a description of the location(s) of the proposed activity; • a description of potential effects of proposed activity and proposed action to avoid, remedy or mitigate adverse effects; • proposed term and reason for that term; • any other relevant information.
Process for Section 17T The intention to grant a concession must be publicly complete notified if it meets any of the following criteria: application • Concession type is a lease (exclusive use of public conservation land); • Term of concession exceeds 10 years (unless it is an easement – an easement may be granted for more than 10 years without public notification); • Effects of activity mean it is appropriate to publicly notify application.
Analysis of effects Sections 17U(1) & Are there any adverse effects on public conservation (2) land resulting from the proposed activity? Can special conditions avoid, remedy or mitigate any adverse effects? What are the cumulative effects? Are there any positive effects?
Purpose for which Section 17U(3) Is the proposed activity consistent with the purposes for the land is held which the land is held?
Can a structure of Section 17U(4) NB: This criteria only applies to applications to build or facility reasonably extend a structure or facility on public conservation land. be located Could an activity reasonably be undertaken at another elsewhere? location or in an existing structure?
Relationship Section 17W Is the activity consistent with the Auckland Conservation between Management Strategy 2014-2024? concessions and conservation management strategies and plans
Hauraki Gulf Section 13 Decision-makers must consider Section 7 & 8 of the Act: Marine Park Act • 2000 Section 7 relates to the Hauraki Gulf’s national significance; and • Section 8 relates to the Gulf’s management.
86 Process and timeframes – where does the Committee fit in? 6. The Committee will be informed of applications once the Department has accepted them as being complete for processing. 7. The Committee is invited to comment on applications at the same time as iwi are provided with an opportunity to provide comment on a concession or permit to the Department. The usual length of time in which to provide comment is 20 working days. 8. If the application meets the Auckland Conservation Board triggers, the Board will also be provided with an opportunity to comment. 9. Department staff also undertake their technical and operational reviews of an application during this period. 10. All information received is collated into a report to the decision-maker.
Technical knowledge – what if the Committee feels they don’t have adequate technical knowledge to comment on an application? 11. Advice is sought from the Committee based on the knowledge and expertise that Committee members have. The Department does not expect the Committee to source independent technical advice, nor to undertake extensive research so they feel they can comment on technical matters.
Official Information Act (OIA) implications 12. All comments received from the Committee, including any from individual members, are subject to the Official Information Act 1982. These comments may be provided to the applicant.
Section 4 Conservation Act 13. To meet the Treaty of Waitangi principle of informed decision making, it is usual practice for relevant whanau/hapu/iwi to be consulted on all statutory applications.
87 88 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 17 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Paul Downie - Aotea conservation Park Advisory Committee Chairperson
Subject: Annual Report 2017/2018
ACPAC Strategic The item relates to all the objectives and functions of the Priority and/or the Advisory Committee as set out in the Terms of Reference and Relevant DOC SOI Procedures. Goal
Recommendation or a) Final approval of Annual Report to go to the Minister Action Required
Context The Advisory Committee to approve the Annual Report for 2017/2018
DOCCM-5494754 Author Fenella Christian Date 21 November 2018 89 90 AOTEA CONSERVATION PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Annual Report 2018 Honourable Eugenie Sage ONZM Minister of Conservation Parliament Buildings Wellington 6160
Advisory Committee Members Committee members Position Paul Downie Chairperson Nicola Macdonald Committee Member Liane Ngamane Committee Member Judy Gilbert Committee Member Rodney Ngawaka Committee Member Vacant* Roger Burrill** Committee Member Kate Waterhouse Committee Member Catherine Munro Committee Member Anthony Christiansen Committee Member
Dear Minister, This is the second annual report of the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory committee since it’s appointment in July 2016 following the formation of the Aotea Conservation Park. *Committee Member Noelene Ngawaka – Forster passed away on the 23rd of August 2017 and an iwi replacement committee member has yet to be formally appointed to replace her. **For personal reasons committee member Roger Burrill has resigned from the Committee, effective 16th September 2018. The Aotea Conservation Park covers some 12,282ha, approximately 43% Great Barrier Island, and the Department manages more than 16,000ha on Great Barrier. Great Barrier is approximately 90 kms north-east of Auckland and has a population of around 1000 permanent residents. The island is free of the following pests and predators: Possums, deer, goats, mustelids, norwegian rats and hedgehogs. Tourism is very important to the islands economy. The island is home to at least 75 species of nationally rare and endangered species such as chevron skink, pateke (brown teal), taiko / black petrel, banded rail, kaka and a number of rare and endemic plants i.e. native orchids, tree daisy etc.. Many pest animals still exist including: ship rats, kiore, rabbits, feral cats and pigs. At its first meeting, the committee recognised the importance of forming a close working relationship with the Auckland Conservation Board, and resolved to invite the Chairperson
Private Bag 96002, Great Barrier Island 0961, Attention: Fenella Christian, Advisory Committee Support
DOCCM - 3072023 91 AOTEA CONSERVATION PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE
or a member of the Auckland Conservation Board to meetings and copy the Board into agendas and minutes.
The interconnectedness of the islands ecology is also acknowledged by the Auckland Conservation Board and the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee. At a joint meeting between these two committees in April 2017 it was agreed that whilst outside of the Terms of Reference for the Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee, it is sensible and of value for the committee to provide advice to the Department of Conservation and Auckland Conservation Board on conservation matters on a more holistic basis both inside and outside the Parks boundaries as outside influences will also affect the Conservation Park. Key Projects and outcomes for 2018: • Monitoring and understanding of the work currently being undertaken by the Department within the Aotea Conservation Park. • Monitoring the delivery of the Conservation Management Strategy objectives and milestones for Aotea • Understanding the key conservation challenges facing the park and the wider island and some of the options to address these (e.g. Kauri Dieback) • Priorities for the committee (summarised below) While over the last few years the Department of Conservation has undergone a prolonged, period of restructuring and change, at a local and national level, the Committee is positive about the recent changes including the opening of the new DOC office at Okiwi, the progressive filling of staff vacancies during 2017 and 2018 and the appointment of George Taylor as the new Operation Manager in January this year. It also acknowledges other progress including: • upgrading of tracks and structures for kauri dieback spread prevention • the eradication project on Rakitu Island. • the Bring Back Kokako project at Te Paparahi • support for community environmental groups with funding, forums, advice etc.. • increased recognition of Great Barrier and the island’s important conservation values for New Zealand. With an understanding and knowledge regarding the Aotea Conservation Park and the Department’s current work programmes in place, the committee has settled on the following priorities for the next 12 months:
1. The committee supports a working partnership between the Department of Conservation, Auckland Council and community and iwi stakeholders to coordinate, develop and partner environmental and predator control initiatives and projects throughout the island. Private Bag 96002, Great Barrier Island 0961, Attention: Fenella Christian, Advisory Committee Support
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AOTEA CONSERVATION PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE
2. Pest control and management plan with related budget support around Hirakimata (Mt Hobson) to support and protect the endangered takoketai / black petrel nesting sites and other species struggling in the area. 3. Kauri dieback is a key priority. Track closures are being undertaken in areas containing healthy kauri along with remedial work on tracks to prevent the spread of the Kauri dieback disease. However wild pigs are also a known vector of the disease and increased pig hunting efforts need to be undertaken with appropriate kauri dieback protocols for hunters and their dogs. 4. Support for locally led private community conservation projects and initiatives on private and conservation property on Great Barrier. 5. Support for Ngati Rehua Ngatiwai ki Aotea led “Bring Back Kokako” project. The project includes pest “knock down” and ongoing control and suppression within the northern Te Paparahi block. The feasibility study (CMS Milestone 14.2.3.6 to be completed end 2017) has been completed but the project will require more support for community consultation, pest suppression, monitoring and ultimately funding to implement the project. Alternative non–toxin options may need to be considered and explored to ensure community support given community reactions to the Rakitu eradication. 6. Our committee supports the continuing upgrade of the island’s “Aotea Track” walkways as well as a number of designated “short walks” and “day walks” within the Park and wider region. There are a number of opportunities to invest in good visitor experiences with more cultural heritage components in a region that is in such close proximity to New Zealand’s largest urban population and the largest visitor gateway to New Zealand. Great Barrier Island has one of the largest conservation areas within the Auckland region.
7. The committee continues to be concerned about the declining pateke numbers on Great Barrier Island. We have asked for increased cat, rat, pukeko and rabbit control within the pateke habitat and further work is needed to understand the reasons for the continued decline in the largest intact population of the species in NZ. 8. Kaitoke wetland, the largest unmodified wetland land in the Auckland Region is in need of attention especially efforts to stem the expansion of the introduced weeds in the area. Further resources, staffing and funding is needed by our Great Barrier Island DOC team to fully realise and undertake the conservation initiatives and priorities listed. It should also be noted that having such a small population, the island lacks community volunteer capacity to fully assist with such tasks.
Private Bag 96002, Great Barrier Island 0961, Attention: Fenella Christian, Advisory Committee Support
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AOTEA CONSERVATION PARK ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Significant conservation work undertaken by the Department outside the Conservation Park. 1. Rakitu Island pest eradication project. CMS Milestone 14.2.3.4 originally scheduled to be completed 2017 “including the removal of Weka”. At this stage there are no firm plans to remove weka but this is being considered as they will impact negatively upon the island’s recovery of seabirds, lizards and invertebrates. Rakitu has the potential to become an important seabird and breeding sanctuary with the introduction of lost species including invertebrates. 2. Community response. Unfortunately this project has caused dissension amongst the community over the use of toxin to achieve the eradication. Some are fundamentally opposed to the use of poison and particularly opposed to the aerial delivery of toxins, especially in a marine environment. The fallout from this project has impacted negatively on the Department and local DOC office staff who have become targets for ongoing abuse and protests. Greater levels of support need to be provided for our local DOC office and staff including community engagement support for any such future contentious projects. Given the divisive community response, it is important that the ultimate environmental outcome for Rakitu becomes a successful conservation story. The Committee has met a further four times over the past year as summarised below
Date Location
14 August 2017 DOC Office - Okiwi
13 November 2017 Local Board Office - Claris
16 April 2018 Art Gallery - Claris
11 June 2018 Local Board Office - Claris
On behalf of the Committee I would ask for your support for the jewel that is Aotea Conservation Park and the wider island and look forward to progressing these priorities in the upcoming 12 months. We would also like invite you to visit Great Barrier in the near future.
Paul Downie Chairperson Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee.
Private Bag 96002, Great Barrier Island 0961, Attention: Fenella Christian, Advisory Committee Support
DOCCM - 3072023 94 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 18 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018 Prepared By: Fenella Christian, Advisory Committee Support Officer
Subject: Correspondence Schedule
INWARDS CORRESPONDENCE since close for Meeting 10 September 2018 # Received From Topic Status
OUTWARDS CORRESPONDENCE since close for Meeting 10 September 2018 # Sent To Topic Status October Minister of Conservation Annual Report done
DOCCM-3098688 Author Fenella Christian Date: 21 November 2018 95 96 Aotea Conservation Park Committee Agenda Item: 19 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Alistair Drake
Subject: Financial Report
Aotea Conservation Park Committee Financial Report Report 4 months to October 30 June
2018 2019
Budget Full Year Heading Actual YTD Variance YTD Budget
Office costs 40 67 27 200 Travel and Accommodation 2,259 1,667 (592) 5,000 Hospitality and events 323 667 344 2,000 Board Fees 1,678 1,167 (511) 3,500 Education/Training 100 100 300 Staff costs 948 1,333 385 4,000 Total 5,248 5,000 (248) 15,000
DOCCM-5498521 Author Fenella Christian Date 5th June 2018 97 DOCCM-5498521 Author Fenella Christian Date 5th June 2018 98 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 20 Meeting No. 10
REPORT
Meeting Date: 10 December 2018
Prepared By: Fenella Christian / Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Support
Subject: Confirmation of meeting dates 2019
ACPAC Strategic The item relates to all the objectives and functions of the Priority and/or the Advisory Committee as set out in the Terms of Reference and Relevant DOC SOI Procedures. Goal
Recommendation or It is recommended that the Advisory Committee: Action Required Confirm the meeting dates and venues for the 2019 meetings Suggested dates are: • 11 February – Combined ACB/ACPAC TBC • 10 June – Claris • 9 September – Okiwi • 9 December – Auckland
These dates have yet to be confirmed.
Context The Advisory Committee to formally confirm the meeting dates for 2019 so the Advisory Committee, Auckland Conservation Board, Hauraki Gulf forum and other interested organisations are aware of the committee meeting dates
DOCCM-3099673 Author Fenella Christian Date 21 November 2018 99 100 Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee Agenda Item: 21 Meeting No. 10
REPORT Meeting Date: 10 December 2018 Prepared By: Fenella Christian, Committee Support Subject: Calendar of events/record of activities
2018 December 5 – International Volunteer Day 10 – Aotea Conservation Park Advisory Committee meeting – Auckland office, Bledisloe House 11 – Great Barrier Island Local Board meeting, Claris Conference Centre 11 – International Mountain Day 25 – Christmas 26 – Boxing Day
2019 January 1 - New Years Day 2 – New Years Day picnic 5 – Mussel Fest 26 – Kai Iwi Lakes Open Day 28 – Auckland Anniversary Day
February 5 – Chinese New Year – Year of the Pig 6 – Waitangi Day 8 – Cargo Plus Coastal Challenge Beach Cleanup, Milford Beach 11 – 12 - Combined meeting ACPAC / Auckland Conservation Board -TBC 14 – Valentines Day 19 – Local Board meeting
March 3 – World Wildlife Day 8 – International Women’s Day 17 - St Patrick’s Day
DOCCM-2922180 Author Fenella Christian Date: 21 November 2018 101 19 – Local Board meeting 20 – International Day of Happiness 21 – International Day of Forests 22 – World Water Day 22 – Fenella Retires from DOC 30 – Eye on Nature Family Day, Botanic Gardens
April 1 – April Fools Day 7 – Day light savings starts 16 – Local Board meeting 19 – Good Friday 22 – Earth Day 22 – Easter Monday 25 – ANZAC Day
May 11 – World Migratory Bird Day 12 – Mothers Day 15 – International Day of Families 15 – Auckland Conservation Board meeting 21 – Local Board meeting 22 – International Day for Biological Diversity
June 3 - Queen’s Birthday 6 – World Environment Day 10 - Matariki 10 – ACPAC meeting , Claris 18 – Local Board meeting 21 – Winter solstice
July 16 - Local Board meeting 30 – International Day of Friendship
August 14 – Auckland Conservation Board meeting
DOCCM-2922180 Author Fenella Christian Date: 21 November 2018 102 20 - Local Board meeting
September 1 – Fathers Day 9 – ACPAC meeting, Okiwi 19 - Local Board meeting 29 – Day light savings ends
October 28 – Labour Day
November 5 – Guy Fawkes 13 – Auckland Conservation Board meeting
December 9 – ACPAC meeting, Auckland 22 – Summer Solstice 24 – Christmas Eve 25 – Christmas Day 26 – Boxing Day 31 – New Years Eve
DOCCM-2922180 Author Fenella Christian Date: 21 November 2018 103