Open Space Strategy.Indd

Open Space Strategy A strategy to protect, develop and enhance a network of open spaces

February 2006 Tauranga City Council 91 Willow St Private Bag 12022 TAURANGA (07) 577 7000 [email protected] www.tauranga.govt.nz Contents Introduction 3 Vision / Principles 4 Strategic Fit 6 Background What is open space and how much do we have? 7 Why is open space important? 8 What has the community told us about open space? 10 Why develop an open space network? 14 Council’s role in open space 16 Key Themes & Actions 1. Open Space Quantity: Keeping up with city growth 17 2. Open Space Quality: Making the most of what we have 25 3. Open Space Function: Having the right mix 30 4. Open Space Accessibility: Getting people there to use and enjoy 40 5. Protection of Open Space: Keeping it safe 43 Deﬁ nitions 46 Monitoring and Review 47

Appendix CONTENTS Summary of Costs 48 Appendix A: Criteria for assessing open space requirements in Residential Intensiﬁ cation Areas 50 Appendix B: Criteria for assessing future open space requirements 51 Appendix C: Categories of Public Open Space 52

1 2 Introduction

Tauranga has a variety of well established open space Smart Living Places has strongly supported the need to areas that play a vital role in the quality of life enjoyed ensure suffi cient provision of open space in Residential by residents and visitors. Tauranga is fortunate to have Intensifi cation Areas. Smart Economy recognises the access to large areas of coastline and harbour which is a need to provide high quality open space and that this is major recreation and open space resource. Large passive an integral part of creating vibrant living centres. The reserves also provide additional amenity through planting, ability to achieve a compact and balanced “live, work, walkways and the formation of green corridors throughout play” environment as promoted by SmartGrowth could not the City. be achieved without the provision of good quality open space such as parks and urban spaces. The Open Space Urban spaces such as town squares and seating areas Strategy responds to the issues and opportunities outlined contribute to the open space network by providing in these strategic documents. places for people to gather and enjoy. This open space is signifi cantly impacted by population growth in Tauranga The Open Space Strategy response to the population with pressure on the use of land and more people wanting growth of Tauranga is to ensure existing open spaces are access to open space areas. The development and retained and valued, and future open space opportunities protection of the open space network and improvements are recognised. The Open Space Strategy sets the to the quality of open space is therefore increasingly direction to link existing open spaces with the coast, rivers, important. green corridors and the hills. The Strategy encourages consideration of both qualitative and quantitative open The community has told us how important open space space planning to provide a good quality open space is through strategic documents like SmartGrowth and environment and the continued provision of open space to Tauranga Tomorrow. Consultation undertaken on meet the needs of current and future generations. INTRODUCTION

3 The Vision

“Protecting, enhancing and developing a network of open spaces for people to appreciate and enjoy”

This recognises the important role that the open space network plays within the urban environment through providing places for recreation, community use, social gathering places, culture and heritage protection, amenity, landscape protection and ecological beneﬁ ts.

4 The Principles

Principles are the underlying beliefs behind the Open Space Strategy. The key principles for the Strategy are that the open space network:

• will be preserved for the beneﬁ t of the natural and built • will provide a diverse and abundant range of quality environment and for future generations to enjoy open space experiences

• is important both in terms of physical access and • will provide for the safe movement of people visual amenity • will support community health and wellbeing by • will be ﬂ exible and respond to changing needs. providing places for sport and active living to occur

• is recognised and promoted as an integral part of the • provide places for people to meet city’s infrastructure • protect and reﬂ ect the local identity and cultural heritage

These principles were identiﬁ ed through community consultation undertaken as part of Tauranga Tomorrow and SmartGrowth. They recognise the important issues that people have felt need to be addressed through the provision of an open space network. The primary focus of these principles is on the public open space network. PRINCIPLES

5 Strategic Fit Fit with other key documents There is no legislative requirement to develop a strategy for open spaces. However the decision to produce a strategy is strongly inﬂ uenced by national and regional statements, policies, plans and legislation. Often the implementation of national level strategy is relevant to some extent to the provision and management of open spaces and community facilities at the local level. Sub-Regional & City Lead Strategies

Open Space Strategy Sport and Active Living Strategy Vegetation Strategy Arts and Culture Strategy Tourism Strategy Transportation Strategy Urban Design Strategy

City Support Strategies

Aquatics Strategy Walking and Cycling Strategy Wairoa River Valley Strategy Extreme Sports Strategy

Implementation Tools

Reserve Management Plans Asset Management Plans

6 Background

What is open space and how much do we have?

Open space can mean different things to different Open space can serve a variety of purposes from Tauranga and the Western Bay have signifi cant areas people. It can be the air that we breathe, the space recreation, amenity and preservation to providing and of open space which also provide a diverse range of around us, parks, harbours and coastal areas, being part of views, protecting signifi cant landscapes recreational opportunities. Both districts are fortunate areas that we use or areas that we simply look at and sites, and providing a community focal point for to have much of the signifi cant open coastal land and appreciate. For tangata whenua, protection of the local area. There are also many different types at Mount Maunganui and Waihi Beach protected turangawaewae such as Maunga, Maori land and areas of open space and the combination of these spaces as reserves as well as some other inland sites such where customary and traditional practices take place makes up the open space network. Types of open as McLaren Falls Park. Areas of cultural heritage is a priority along with the views and open space that space include esplanade reserves, urban spaces signifi cance within and close to the City that provide surround these areas. The cultural heritage component such as town squares and pocket parks, streetscape, open space include Mauao and Hopukiore (Mount of open space is also of high signifi cance to tangata greenbelt areas, stormwater reserves, coastal reserves, Drury), along with large open space areas such as whenua. neighbourhood and active reserves, and wetlands. Kopurererua Valley, Carmichael Farm, Wairakei Stream The rural landscape and hills surrounding Tauranga and Tauranga Harbour. The Crown also provides a large For the purpose of this strategy, open space is defi ned (Papamoa, Welcome Bay and Kaimais) all contribute to amount of protected land within the Western Bay of as areas of land or water that the public has a level of the open space character of this area. Plenty which is an important resource for both Tauranga free physical or visual access. This includes ‘green and the Western Bay of Plenty. spaces’ such as parks, reserves, transport corridors, Tauranga has over 1100 hectares of public open space urban spaces, streetscapes, greenbelt areas and ‘blue encompassing sports fi elds, natural areas, coastal Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty spaces’ such as the harbour, coast, streams and rivers. reserves and neighbourhood reserves. There are 330 District Council are working together to implement a Many of these areas provide for multiple objectives hectares of active and neighbourhood reserves with joint policy on subregional parks. This policy identifi es such as urban space within city and town centres that another 825 hectares of ‘other’ reserves including fi ve types of park that are intended to fi ll the gap provide gathering places and amenity with the built esplanade reserves, walkways and stormwater between large areas of conservation land and smaller environment. reserves, and golf courses. The 2004 Yardstick urban parks. The parks build on the existing open space benchmark process indicated that the total park network and provide for a diverse range of recreational The focus of the strategy is primarily on public owned provision for Tauranga is considered to be reasonable opportunities as well as protecting signifi cant BACKGROUND land, however it is recognised that privately owned compared to other local authorities, with approximately landscapes and cultural heritage features. open space also makes a considerable contribution to 11.55 hectares per 1000 people (Yardstick 2004 – the development of an open space network. Summary Report and Analysis for Tauranga City Council, Prophet IAM).

7 Why is open space important?

Open space plays a vital role in making Tauranga a great place to “live, work and play”. This is a concept promoted by SmartGrowth that integrates the vital components of our lives; where we live, where we work, and where we play. In particular open space contributes to the ‘live’ element by promoting a sense of community and celebration of place and the ‘play’ by providing recreational opportunities and an environment for people to get more active more often. Sport and Recreation New Zealand (SPARC) are undertaking a nationwide campaign to encourage people to get active and it is recognised that most places where people get active are areas of public open space.

Tauranga Tomorrow identiﬁ es community outcomes that focusimportant?” on improving social, economic, environmental and cultural wellbeings. The diagram titled “Why is open space so illustrates how open space contributes to the four wellbeings.

On a large scale the open space network contains the urban environment with large open space areas such as subregional parks, conservation land and rural land. On a smaller scale it weaves between the natural and built environments to create a more liveable city within commercial and residential areas.

There is a need to recognise that other strategies such as the Urban Design Strategy and Integrated Transport Strategy also support what the Open Space Strategy is endeavouring to achieve.

8 WHY IS OPEN SPACE SO IMPORTANT? ECONOMIC CULTURAL

ENVIRONMENTAL SOCIAL

ECONOMIC ENVIRONMENTAL CULTURAL SOCIAL BACKGROUND

• Supports recreation and • Awareness and understanding • Recognise local identity • Health and well being of community tourism industries of nature • Protection of cultural heritage • Community focal point • Adds value to properties • Visual contrast to built • Deﬁ nes urban character and localities environment • Active and passive recreation • Urban spaces • Protection and natural features and landscapes 9 What has the community told us about open space?

Consultation undertaken through Tauranga Tomorrow Tauranga Tomorrow Another strong link is with the community outcome “Clean, and SmartGrowth has given us a clear direction on the Tauranga Tomorrow identifi es the eight community green, valued environment”. The vision for this community values people place on open space in Tauranga. This has outcomes for Tauranga City. There are strong links outcome is: been further emphasised through monitoring undertaken between the outcomes and provision of an open space through the State of Environment Report 2004 and the network. One of the strongest links is with the community Tauranga is our place, a place with strong community National Quality of Life Survey. outcome “Built to fi t our hills, harbour and coast”. The pride and values. It is a place where our beautiful vision for this community outcome is: landscape and environment is recognised and contributes Other strategies that are in the process of being developed to our sense of place, mauri and identity. It is a place, and that will have a relationship to the Open Space Our city takes full advantage of, and fi ts sensitively within, where working together we can encourage others to Strategy are the Transportation Strategy, Arts and Culture its unique landscape and coastal setting. Radiating from respect and interact with nature and enjoy and cherish Strategy, Urban Design Strategy, and Tourism Strategy. Tauranga’s vibrant city centre, a network of transportation a wide range of native and exotic animals and plants and open space corridors connect and defi ne a series that fl ourish in our city. It is a place where its natural Where there are strong linkages between the vision, of neighbourhoods nestled into the landscape. Each attributes and benefi cial elements are protected as the themes, outcomes, goals and actions included in neighbourhood has defi ned edges and a visible character, city continues to develop and grow. Tauranga is a rich the strategies outlined below, these are recognised history and identity that is refl ected in architecture, natural environment, a city that we are proud to live in and in the goals and actions section of the Open Space planting and streetscape. They offer people a wide choice grow with. Strategy. of housing types and ways of getting around. It is very Consultation undertaken throughout Tauranga Tomorrow easy to walk to local shops, schools and amenities, and illustrated the importance that the community place on pedestrian activity makes our neighbourhoods feel safe. open spaces. Comments generally focused on providing Excellent new buildings and development complement more parks and green areas, retaining and protecting established areas, heritage and landscape features. natural areas, valuing parks as community assets, and creating open spaces that are visible and where people can feel safe in.

10 SmartGrowth SmartEconomy Urban Design Strategy SmartSpaces is a section within SmartGrowth that SmartEconomy is the economic development strategy The Open Space Strategy and Urban Design Strategy are focuses on open space, sports, arts and leisure. for the Western Bay of Plenty. One of the key themes of highly interlinked with regard to the principles, objectives SmartSpaces says in 50 years time Tauranga will have: SmartEconomy is Lifestyle – the place, the people. This and actions related to open space. Urban design is theme is about creating places, facilities, activities and concerned with the quality and design of buildings, • Impressive leisure and recreation opportunities events so as to turn the Western Bay of Plenty’s lifestyle places and networks, of which open space is a major advantages into a source of competitive advantage for component. The many facets and types of open space, • Lifestyle choices from surf to mountain top which the sub-region. the activity that makes and surrounds open space and support and reﬂ ect the natural attributes of the area the connections to, through and between spaces, are SmartEconomy seeks the following outcomes with integral to achieving a high quality urban environment • Easy access to the harbour and ocean respect to the Lifestyle theme and the Open Space and this is reﬂ ected in both strategies. Many of the • Open space and walking/cycling networks that allow Strategy: objectives and actions outlined in the Urban Design people to remain physically active and healthy Strategy will be delivered through or in conjunction with Vibrant and interesting city and town centres created the Open Space Strategy. Additionally the Urban Design • Urban areas that are attractive and pleasant to live in through high quality urban design of public places. Strategy actions are intended to support and reinforce • People can move about the area freely and safely the principles of the Open Space Strategy. High quality open space, sport, arts and leisure provision. Additional and upgraded regional parks, walkways, beaches and maintain amenity so that the region continues to be a desirable place to live, work, and play. BACKGROUND Implementation of the regional parks policy and provide mechanisms to identify and purchase open space opportunities.

11 Integrated Transport Strategy Sport and Active Living Strategy Arts and Culture Strategy This strategy recognises that the transport system This strategy considers goals and actions relating to The need to develop an Arts and Culture Strategy for the needs to be planned as an integrated system, where active living, sports development and active recreation. Western Bay of Plenty was identiﬁ ed in SmartGrowth. all forms of transport are taken into account when The strategy recognises the role of open space in The SmartGrowth action stated the need to: designing transport corridors, including walking and providing an environment to undertake physical activity cycling. The planning of the transport system needs to be and promotes the need for sufﬁ cient open space for • investigate the arts needs of the community, recognised and integrated with land use planning, open people to recreate. • support the opportunity for communities to participate space planning and urban design. One of the objectives in and have access to arts experiences, and of this strategy is to develop a citywide network of Vegetation Strategy • have a place for arts groups to develop. interconnected walking and cycling facilities. Logically The Vegetation Strategy considers the planting, this network will generally align with the open space The Arts and Culture Strategy is a plan to make the protection, maintenance and enhancement of vegetation network as areas within this network such as green “Western Bay of Plenty as vibrant as it is beautiful”. The across the city. Vegetation includes trees, street gardens, corridors and streetscape all provide opportunities for following are the key themes underpinning the strategy: hanging baskets and revegetation. establishing walking and cycling linkages. • Identity, • Facilities and infrastructure. • Support / participation. • Wellbeing.

12 Wairoa River Valley Strategy The Wairoa River Valley Strategy is a guidebook for the integrated management and development of the Wairoa River Valley. The strategy vision is:

The Wairoa River Valley forms a green corridor that runs through farmland and bush, parks and reserves and the urban landscape. Within the green corridor the river and its surrounds create tranquil settings, places for relaxation, recreation, working and living. The iconic landscape that is the Wairoa River Valley can be viewed from vantage points that allow this peaceful natural and cultural landscape to be appreciated by all.

There are a number of actions relating to open space within the Wairoa River Valley Strategy. These include the identiﬁ cation and protection of open space corridors to connect and deﬁ ne visual and recreational space, promoting enhanced pedestrian linkages between public reserves, and identifying areas that provide key vantage points of the river to focus public access to these areas.

Tauranga Moana Tourism Strategy The draft vision for this strategy is that “By 2015 visitors BACKGROUND experience and our communities embrace the Bay of Plenty as a coastal and harbour destination, and where the themes of ‘ocean, spirit and earth’ enhance the visitor experience”.

13 Why develop an Open Space Network?

The purpose of the open space network is to create a clearly deﬁ ned, linked system of public and private land of an open, urban or natural character that provides a visual contrast to the built urban environment and caters for a range of active, passive and community leisure activities. Through the improved use of streetscape, pedestrian friendly environments and good signage a standard suburban street could be transformed into a linear park that connects the open space network. Generally networks of open space have more value than isolated areas. Open space networks are more accessible and provide a much wider range of opportunities than isolated recreational areas. They also provide important corridors for wildlife. Although in some instances there may appear to be conﬂ ict between promoting recreational use of open space and protecting natural areas within the open space network, through good design and management both of these objectives are achievable.

Connections and linkages between open space areas can be achieved using a variety of methods. The sketch plan of the open space network illustrates the types of open space included in the open space network. The plan also shows that connections between these areas can be achieved through the use of off road walkways and cycleways, the use of the road network by providing pedestrian footpaths that are user friendly and safe to use, and public open space areas that are adjacent to other public open space areas.

14 OPEN SPACE NETWORK

RESIDENTIAL GREEN CORRIDOR GREEN CORRIDOR

ACTIVE RESERVE

NEIGHBOURHOOD RESERVE

COMMERCIAL WETLAND NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE

WALKWAY / CYCLEWAY BACKGROUND

HARBOUR FRINGE

15 Council’s role in open space Tauranga City Council regards the provision of open space Protection as part of an integrated planning and service delivery approach within its community governance responsibilities. Council uses legislation such as the Reserves Act 1977, Council has a number of roles relating to open space. Local Government Act 2002 and the Resource Management These are as follows: Act 1991 to protect and preserve the open space network from inappropriate use and development. Provider/Owner Advocacy The provision, development and maintenance of open spaces is a core component of Council’s business. Through strategic documents, plans and information Council can advocate the importance of open space to the Partnerships community. Council has the opportunity to participate in a number of Research and Planning partnerships of varying scales that provide access to open space and can further enhance the network. Council also Ongoing research and planning is required to ensure that has a City Investment Strategy that provides opportunities the open space network meets community needs both now for partnerships with organisations to contribute and for future generations and to ensure that Council plans towards community projects, such as land purchase and are responsive to people’s changing needs and preferences. development of open spaces. Planning also involves monitoring city growth and population characteristics and assessing this information to Management amend strategies and plans if necessary.

Council manages or administers a large amount of land that is in Crown ownership. Council also develops reserve management plans that outline the purpose, management and development requirements for parks and reserves. Council and other agencies also support activity occurring in open space areas.

16 Key Themes

The Open Space Strategy focuses on ﬁ ve key themes.

1. The quantity of open space: How much we have and The following sections outline the goals and actions how much we need to provide for current and future required to help us achieve the vision of the Open Space generations. Strategy under each theme outlined above. Speciﬁ c actions that require incorporation into Council’s Long Term 2. The quality of open space: How the quality of open Council Community Plan are prioritised according to the space can support urban development and where following: quality can be improved to create good, safe open space environments. • Short term actions (2006/2007 – 2008/2009) • Medium term actions (2009/2010 – 2012/2013) 3. The function of open space: The range of experiences • Long term actions (2013/2014 – 2015/2016) and types of open space. • Ongoing

4. The accessibility of open space: Ensuring that everyone Where an action has been prioritised as “ongoing” this is within reasonable walking distance to open space and means that this action is more of a principle that needs to are aware that the open space network exists. be applied and incorporated into the development of other strategies, policies, plans or specifi c projects. Therefore 5. The protection of open space: Ensuring the protection no cost has been identifi ed for actions that are “ongoing”. and preservation of the open space network for existing and future generations to enjoy. Priority actions and costs are subject to change through the Long Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) process. The costs are indicative only and may need to be revised as more detailed information becomes available. Indicative costings are needed to ensure that some level of budgeting is included in the LTCCP over the next 10 years KEY THEMES to ensure implementation of the strategy. Through the LTCCP the short term actions can be more clearly defi ned while retaining some fl exibility over the costs and timeframes for the medium and long term actions.

17 1. Open Space Quantity: Keeping up with City growth

development takes place such as Pyes Pa West and space required to be purchased. This will provide Council Where we are now Papamoa East as Council is able to determine exactly with a clear direction on what the reserve land purchase what is required to meet the basic reserve requirements. requirements are, how much it is estimated to cost and The goal: Tauranga is responding to the growth needs However application of the level of service to residential what the likely timeframes for purchase area. of the city through strategically securing open space in intensifi cation areas is more diffi cult as the ability locations that enhance the overall liveability and build to provide more reserves is restricted due to limited Further work is required on the location of active reserves upon the valued environmental and cultural resources of availability of land and high land values in these areas. and community building reserves. Active reserves need to the community. The 3.45ha/1000 level of service provides guidance to be considered in the context of the Sport and Active Living Council on the quantity of active, neighbourhood and Strategy (SALS) to identify how the provision of this space community building reserve land required to meet the assists in achieving the objectives of the SALS and the Where we want to be needs of growth. Council have also adopted a level of relationship between the provision of outdoor space and service to determine the location of open spaces in indoor space for active recreation. It is diffi cult to plan Levels of Service general which can include active, neighbourhood and for community building reserve requirements as Council community building reserves. This was determined in has not yet identifi ed the strategic direction for community Council has a minimum level of service of 3.45 hectares of accordance with the level of service for playground buildings. Once this facility information is available then reserve per thousand people (1.7ha/1000 active, 1.7ha/1000 location as it is recognised that playgrounds will the location of land required for this can be determined. neighbourhood and 0.05ha/1000 community building generally be located on neighbourhood reserves. The reserve). This allows Council to plan how much reserve level of service requires that 95% of urban residences It is appropriate to also consider a review of the level of land is needed as a result of the growth of an area and is in comprehensive development areas and residential service to ensure Council’s strategic objectives are being based on the average level of service across the city as intensifi cation areas are required to be within 400 metres met. A number of strategic documents were not in place at 2001 for active, neighbourhood and community building of open space and neighbourhood playgrounds. For all when the level of service was established, and with a reserves. Council uses this information to determine the other urban areas which include urban growth areas growing population and changing trends and usage of reserve land purchase requirements in the Development and general residential areas, 95% of urban residences the open space network there is a need to factor these Contributions Policy. The level of service has been must be within a 500 metre catchment of open space and considerations to see if they have any impact on the benefi cial in new greenfi eld areas where comprehensive neighbourhood playgrounds. There is a need to provide a current level of service approach. more detailed plan on the location of reserves and open

18 Ad-hoc Open Space Purchase development and the Wairakei Stream development in considered in terms of the extent of Council involvement Papamoa. Other areas include cemeteries that provide required to ensure protection of open space values. Other areas of open space are also acquired from time large areas of open space and amenity. The District Plan recognises that rural landscape values to time, generally in response to opportunities as they and open space within the rural area is of considerable arise. Council considers a number of approaches from The development of Route K has provided an opportunity value to many people. An objective in the District Plan is landowners who offer their land to Council for purchase for Council to secure over 200 hectares of land with a to protect the amenity values associated with rural areas as a park or reserve. Staff assess the proposals to primary purpose of providing passive open space within and maintain a rural backdrop to the urban environment. determine whether or not they meet strategic objectives, the Kopurererua Valley. This will become an enormous The use of a rural and rural residential zone is one relevant plans or an identifi ed need, and make asset to the City and create a number of recreational, method used to support this open space and amenity recommendations accordingly. walking and cycling opportunities, signifi cant amenity objective. and ecological benefi ts and a high amenity entrance into There are a range of methods available to Council to the City. Land in Maori ownership contributes to the open space secure land for the open space network and each network through a number of ways: undeveloped rural method affords a different degree of protection. For Council needs to ensure that future passive open space and greenbelt land, sportsgrounds, Maori reservations, example while land purchase may offer Council the opportunities are identifi ed in a reserve acquisition plan. conservation land, waahi tapu sites, marae and urupa greatest degree of control and protection over land, Also, opportunities for encouraging other types of use of sites. It is recognised that as much as possible, Tangata other methods such as covenants may also assist in Council land should be considered where appropriate for Whenua endeavour to provide for their people through achieving the objectives of the open space network. It example road reserves and transport corridors that may areas such as reserves, conservation zones and is benefi cial to have information on the range of methods provide linkages to the open space network. greenbelt areas which can add amenity, recreational and available to Council to ensure that the most effective ecological values to the open space network. methods are being applied to the development of the Private Open Space open space network. Educational facilities make a contribution to the open space network through the provision of large areas of Private open space can make a signifi cant contribution open space and amenity. Schools have a responsibility to the open space network in terms of both physical Passive Open Space to maintain this contribution. Where possible Council and visual access to these areas. Where possible, should work with the Ministry of Education to encourage KEEPING UP WITH CITY GROWTH opportunities for maintaining and enhancing this Council owns and administers a number of large passive retention of these open space values and to identify contribution should be encouraged. Public access on open space areas. In some circumstances the primary opportunities to enhance the use of open space. private land may be facilitated through walkways, public purpose of these areas is stormwater however it is There are also other large land holdings such as roads, rights of way, easement and any other negotiated recognised that there are benefi ts of establishing a hospitals and tertiary institutes that provide for some agreements between the landowner and Council or multi use approach and developing the reserves through degree of physical and visual acess to open spaces users. Opportunities for access or retention of open landscaping, walkways and open space. Examples of and amenity e.g. established trees. such passive open space areas are Carmichaels Farm space values on private open space will need to be

19 Open Space in Residential Council is faced with the challenge of applying a development. The Policy, along with other opportunities is historically based quantitative method for providing a vehicle by which Council can establish Intensifi cation Areas open spaces (ha/1000) in proposed areas of intensive strong subregional and regional open space linkages in development. It is recognised that there is a need to collaboration with other organisations. Residential Intensifi cation indicates that property sizes will consider a different level of service for open space decrease, population will increase and as such there is provision within these areas rather than applying the Environment Bay of Plenty has adopted a Regional a greater need and demand for public open space which 3.45ha/1000 standard. Parks Policy that outlines their requirements for the provides for a range of opportunities and to offset the loss establishment of a regional parks network. There are of private open space. Residential Intensifi cation can have Council will need to commit to open space standards opportunities for Tauranga City Council to work with a number of implications including: in residential intensifi cation areas that assess both the Environment Bay of Plenty to establish the regional parks quantity of open space through considering the use of network where it is considered to be mutually benefi cial. • Increased pressure on existing facilities and a different level of service that recognises the higher This has already been illustrated through the securing of reserves which can result in degradation of the densities within these areas, along with consideration the Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage Regional Park. resource due to over use. of improvements to the quality of open space, and • Demand for improved quality facility and reserves. other methods that may be used to achieve open space The Department of Conservation also administer a • Demand for a greater quantity of facilities and objectives. signifi cant amount of land that contributes to the open reserves. This can be diffi cult to provide, space values of the region and the diversity of recreation particularly for reserves, because once an area is Open Space Partnerships experiences. There are opportunities for Council to work fully developed there is no bare land left to with the Department of Conservation to enhance access to purchase and develop as a reserve and land these areas and to add value to the Council’s open space Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of Plenty District purchase in these areas can be quite costly. network. • Less private outdoor space (private gardens etc) Council adopted the Joint Subregional Parks Policy in 2000. The Policy signals the Councils’ intention to so there is likely to be demand for public open The unique aspect of the open space network is that it is secure fi ve categories of park that provide a diversity space to cater for activities which previously would not constrained by boundaries (such as local authority of recreational experiences and protect signifi cant have occurred in private open spaces (such as jurisdictions) and this has already been made evident sites for the subregion. Three of these parks have children’s play, family barbeques etc). through the Joint Subregional Parks Policy and the Wairoa already been secured. This includes the Papamoa Hills • The proportion of the city’s vegetation cover that is River Valley Strategy. Other opportunities for extending Cultural Heritage Regional Park (now under Environment contained within public reserves may need to the open space network also need to be recognised, such Bay of Plenty ownership), the Huharua Harbour Park, increase as private gardens reduce in size, thus as esplanade connections along river corridors. increasing the ecological signifi cance of public and the TECT All Terrain Park. The development and reserves. implementation of this policy is a proactive step that • Issues, around providing safe and secure Councils have taken to address open space issues environments. facing the subregion as a result of population growth and 20 Open Space Quantity: Actions

WHAT WE WILL DO The Quantity Actions have strong linkages to The Quantity Actions have strong linkages to the following Tauranga Tomorrow actions: the following SmartGrowth actions:

• Identify and protect (or acquire) open space ‘green • Providing a network of open space and leisure corridors’ to both connect and defi ne the edges of opportunities via community partnerships future neighbourhoods • Applying a core level of service for active and • Cluster community and commercial services, schools, neighbourhood reserves parks, event spaces and facilities as neighbourhood • Identifi cation of all private protected areas and public focal points within walking distance of as many homes land already in reserve (or other) and identifi cation of as possible the potential linkages and priorities for securing • Identify and protect an interconnected open space linkages network and encourage multiple uses of open space • Initiating and supporting open space and leisure • Work with community facility owners to develop opportunities that refl ect an identity with the connected corridors and passive recreation subregion such as the cultural heritage park at opportunities to ensure that green spaces and Papamoa Hills greenbelts are retained and developed, especially in • Explore opportunities to provide large areas of coastal areas of urban intensifi cation land • Identify mechanisms to complete ‘mountains to the sea’ connectivity ACTIONS

21 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

1a. Continue to apply the minimum level To ensure that the basic reserve Tauranga City Council Revenue and Land purchase will occur Sport and Active Living of service of 3.45ha/1000 to future growth requirements are provided to meet the expenditure for land over the 10 year LTCCP Strategy of the City until such a time when the level needs of a growing population. purchase costs period, therefore the of service is reviewed (see 1i below). have been identiﬁ ed action will be carried out Urban Design Strategy To ensure that growth contributes to the in the LTCCP and in the short term, medium Determine basic reserve requirements and provision of growth related services such Development term and the long term. Transportation Strategy funding in the Development Contributions as reserves. Contributions Policy. Policy and LTCCP. Provide detail on preferred reserve location through the Reserve Acquisition Plan (see below).

1b. Develop, implement, monitor and To ensure sufﬁ cient land is secured to Tauranga City Council Costs will be identiﬁ ed Land purchase will occur Sport and Active Living review an Area Unit Analysis and Reserve provide for current and future generations in the Reserve over the 10 year LTCCP Strategy Acquisition Plan to identify future land and to contribute to the open space Acquisition Plan and period, therefore the purchase requirements and incorporate network. incorporated into the action will be carried out Urban Design Strategy into the LTCCP. LTCCP. in the short term, medium To consider both quantity and quality term and the long term. Vegetation Strategy issues and opportunities for the open space network and to contribute to Transportation Strategy the development of Council’s Property Acquisition Plan.

1c. Provide open space within 400 To ensure everyone has good access to Tauranga City Council Costs for land Land purchase will occur Urban Design Strategy metres of 95% of urban residences within the open space network and to provide purchase either over the 10 year LTCCP Residential Intensifi cation Areas and a good geographic distribution of open already identifi ed period, therefore the Transportation Strategy Comprehensive Development Areas, and space across the city. as part of the action will be carried out 500 metres of 95% of urban residences in Comprehensive in the short term, medium all other areas. Development Area term and the long term. planning or yet to be Identify requirements in the Area Unit identifi ed through Analysis and Reserve Acquisition Plan. further work such as the Smart living Places project.

1d. Respond and/or initiate community/ Where areas of private land are of Tauranga City Council Ongoing Urban Design Strategy organisation partnerships that create particular signiﬁ cance to the community in partnership with the open space opportunities where the due to their recreational, amenity, natural community and other Vegetation Strategy proposal meets the criteria included in or cultural heritage values Council should organisations. Appendix B. endeavour to protect these values for present and future generations through The evaluation process will be applied to acquisition, partnerships, voluntary signiﬁ cant requests. Other requests will agreements (eg covenants), education, be considered using Council’s Reserve negotiation or other mechanisms. Land Purchase Project Team.

22 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

1e. Complete a report on the different There are a number of methods that Tauranga City Council New Project medium term methods available to develop and protect Council can use to secure land for the open $5,000 Year 4 (09/10) the open space network. Use this report space network. These include designation, as a reference for further development of land purchase, management agreements, the open space network. sponsorship, land exchange, reserve contributions, lease, easements, rights of way, covenants, trusts, city investment strategy. There are also a number of protection methods available.

1f. Open space values will be This approach recognises that both Tauranga City Council This action will be Short Term Urban Design Strategy recognised and provided for in Residential quality of open space and the quantity of implemented through Intensifi cation Areas through a variety open space needs to be planned for to the Smart Living of methods including consideration of provide an open space network within Places project. improving the quality of existing open Residential Intensifi cation Areas while also space and increasing the quantity and considering the different methods available accessibility of open space. to achieve this. It recognises that these areas are already established residential Apply the process outlined in Appendix A areas and the diffi culties associated with to determine open space requirements in applying the level of service to determine Residential Intensifi cation Areas. Through quantity. the Smart Living Places project.

1g. Recognise through the Smart Living This approach recognises the difﬁ culties Tauranga City Council This action will be Short Term Urban Design Strategy Places project that within Residential in terms of availability of land and high implemented through Intensiﬁ cation Areas consideration will land values, associated with achieving the Smart Living Smart Living Places need to be given to applying a different Council’s level of service of 3.45ha/1000. Places project. level of service to determine basic reserve requirements, in particular neighbourhood reserves.

Consideration could be given to providing wider criteria for meeting level of service requirements such as the provision of other types of open space eg streetscape, ACTIONS urban spaces and heritage areas.

23 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

1h. Review the Joint Tauranga City Since the policy was adopted, three parks Tauranga City Council New Project Short Term Council and Western Bay of Plenty have been purchased. SmartGrowth in partnership $10,000 District Council Subregional Parks and Tauranga Tomorrow have also with Western Bay Year 1 (06/07) Policy. been adopted and the policy needs of Plenty District to be reviewed to align with these Council, Department Work with other organisations to documents. For example, consideration of Conservation and review the scope of the Subregional of the mountains to the sea concept, Environment Bay of Parks Policy. identiﬁ cation of gaps in the network Plenty such as river parks and opportunities for partnerships with other organisations to develop the open space network.

1i. Review the 3.45ha/1000 level of It is appropriate to review the current level Tauranga City Council New Project Short Term Urban Design Strategy service and consider demographics, of service approach to ensure alignment $100,000 changing trends, residential with strategic direction provided through Year 2 (07/08) Integrated Design intensiﬁ cation, contribution of urban Urban Design Strategy, Transportation Strategy spaces etc in this review. Strategy and Smart Living Places. Smart Living Places

Development Contributions Policy

24 2. Open Space Quality: Making the most of what we have

reserve development regardless of location. Council also What we want to achieve has a best practice guide for neighbourhood reserves which outlines a number of success factors for the The Goal: Tauranga has a network of good quality open location and development of these reserves. This needs spaces that is highly valued by the community and is the to be considered for all development of existing and outcome of good design and recognised best practice. future neighbourhood reserves.

It is recognised that open spaces and features contained Where we are now within them reﬂ ect and create the identity of the area surrounding it. An example of this is the use of art works Quality Matters and design. This has started to occur in some places such as the Papamoa Domain with successful results, The quality of open space varies across the City. Where and has the potential to be applied to other parts of the new open spaces have been created they have new open space network. equipment that may respond to current trends and landscaping that is well maintained. More established Involving the community, local residents, businesses and reserves and open space areas can become neglected other interests in the development and management of which may result in the community placing less value on open space can result in the community placing more the open space area. value on open space areas. An example of this is the Surrey Grove neighbourhood reserve in Merivale. The A more consistent approach to the quality of open space purchase and development of this reserve is a successful and the ongoing management and maintenance of open outcome of the Merivale Neighbourhood Planning space across the City is required. This is partly addressed process where the community and businesses identiﬁ ed through the development and implementation of reserve the need for a neighbourhood reserve that is now heavily WE HAVE MAKING THE MOST OF WHAT management plans that are of a generic nature and cover used and an important part of the Merivale community. a number of reserves with a similar purpose, for example, Under-utilised or neglected open spaces, such as gullies, the Active Reserves Management Plan. Establishing can be improved to increase the quality of these spaces. levels of service also ensures greater consistency in

25 Design and Safety of Open Spaces feel or be unsafe. Providing lighting along walkways with There are a number of stream and gully areas that poor natural surveillance and places for people to hide would benefi t from a comprehensive planning approach can be counter-productive. An alternative route may be considering issues such as quality, accessibility, The design of open space and open space connections safer and more appropriate, especially if it is well connections and functions. For example, the Wairakei and the way in which they relate to adjacent private over-looked and has heavier foot traffi c or use. Stream Development where a concept plan has been property (the public/private interface), is important in prepared for the entire network. This also refl ects the ensuring that open space feels comfortable and safe. If 3. Territorial reinforcement – community ownership relationship of the Wairakei Stream with surrounding open spaces don’t feel comfortable and safe people are of space. This essentially encourages people to take areas. This process increases the overall quality of the far less likely to use them and they lose their value as ownership of space, for the community to look after it and open space environment and can focus on how these important components of the urban environment. feel associated with it. areas “fi t” and “respond to” the overall environment that they are located in. Good design is integral to achieving safe and attractive 4. Quality environments – ensuring spaces are well spaces. Crime Prevention through Environmental Design designed, that they feel spacious rather than narrow and (CPTED) is one approach to crime prevention and helping confi ned. High quality spaces that are well maintained Development Infrastructure and Utilities people feel safer in places. Both crime and the fear of attract people to them. People feel comfortable in these crime can be prevented or reduced through a number of spaces and will more readily use them. Open space areas that are in public ownership often simple design principles: come under pressure for the location of services, Streams and Gullies infrastructure and utilities. More often than not, this 1. Natural (passive) surveillance – ensuring that open happens with little consideration to what the primary spaces are well overlooked by adjoining properties. This purpose and value of the open space is. The Active means limiting the heights of fences or walls on the edge Streams and gullies can provide a means of linking Reserves Management Plan clearly states that of open space or if the walls and fences are high, making together spaces and places. The Integrated Transport applications for the location of network utilities on sure they are built from materials that are transparent, Strategy recognises that streams, gullies and greenbelt active reserves will only be considered where there is such as railings or trellis. This way people can see into areas can be developed to provide for key walking and no other viable alternative. This approach needs to be the open space and be seen from it, giving more of a cycling linkages. The opening and redevelopment of integrated into the review or development of all reserve sense of security and preventing anti-social behaviour. streams into green corridors and open spaces is an management plans and if there is no viable alternative important contribution to the quality of life in the City then consideration of a range of design factors must 2. Access management – directing people to areas through providing ecological corridors, recreational apply. of open space where it is safe and restricting them from opportunities, amenity, and open space. places where it is unsafe. Parks, particularly at night can

26 Open Space Quality: Actions

Code of Practice for Development WHAT WILL WE DO The Code of Practice provides design engineering standards for any asset that will come into public ownership such as streets The Quality Actions have strong linkages to the and reserves. The Code of Practice specifi es the physical state following Tauranga Tomorrow actions: that reserves are required to be in prior to vesting as a Council asset. The Code of Practice Review is a SmartGrowth action • Provide safe environments for walkers and cyclists that has been planned for 2005/2006. This will need to consider based on urban design crime prevention principles. application of best practice, good design and CPTED principles • Reinforce the local ‘sense of place’ through public art for all open space areas including reserves and walkways. and in the design of streetscape and open spaces for each neighbourhood. Active Reserves • Work with community facility owners to develop connected corridors and passive recreation The quality of open space can infl uence the amount of use opportunities to ensure that green spaces and of open space areas. This is particularly relevant with active greenbelts are retained and developed, especially in reserves where a good quality surface or all weather surfaces areas of urban intensifi cation. is likely to be more heavily utilised than a playing surface that • Enhance existing natural environment spaces to is of poor quality and not well maintained. The level of serv- ensure the community has a diverse range ice for active reserves applied over a 20 year planning period of public places and spaces to enjoy, especially in requires an additional 80 hectares of active reserve land. Some areas of high development intensity. of this has already been purchased and/or planned such as • Through design, create positive public places and Papamoa East where approximately 20 hectares of land has spaces that support wellbeing and safety. been identifi ed. Further technical work is required on existing • Provide high quality open space. active reserves to provide a basis for determining the types of surfaces appropriate for future reserves and improvements (if ACTIONS any) required to existing reserves to ensure effi cient use of the The Quality Actions have strong linkages to the active reserve network. This should also be considered in the following SmartGrowth actions: context of the Sport and Active Living Strategy and the wider network of indoor sports facilities. • Developing stream and gully enhancement plans.

27 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

2a. All open space location and Open space areas are often perceived as Tauranga City Council Ongoing Urban Design Strategy development will be required to apply being unsafe, especially after dark. The in partnership with the CPTED principles (Crime Prevention application of CPTED principles can help the Police and Safer Vegetation Strategy Through Environmental Design). to increase the usage of these areas and Communities decrease the fear of crime. The safety Integrated Transport Establish a Technical Working Group to of open space areas will be affected by: Strategy review application of the CPTED principles location and layout; the relationship with to Council documents. surrounding activities, and activities contained within the area; design and Incorporate CPTED principles into the location of landscaping and structures development and review of reserve within the area and connections to the management plans and best practice wider open space network. guides and the code of practice review (see action 2e). 2b. Develop enhancement plans for To increase the quality of these areas Tauranga City Council Will be achieved Short term Vegetation Strategy stream, gully and greenbelt areas. through the use of a comprehensive in partnership through streams and management approach and recognise with the Tauranga gully enhancement Integrated Transport Do this by including a programme for open space values. Environment Centre work in the Vegetation Strategy development in the LTCCP that prioritises and Environment Bay Strategy, Integrated areas according to need for Council This would primarily be for public land but of Plenty Transport Strategy, involvement. could incorporate ideas for enhancement Urban Greenspace of private land. project and Ecological Corridors work being carried out.

2c. Where resource consent is This ensures that open space values Tauranga City Council This plan change has Medium Term required for the development of services are maintained and not compromised been included and infrastructure and network utilities on open through the presence of utilities and will be prioritised space areas, require full consideration of infrastructure. with all other plan the impact on open space values. change requirements, therefore it will be Undertake a plan change to the District managed with existing Plan to require full consideration of the budget allocations. impact on open space values in the “other methods” section of the District Plan for resource consent applications for network utilities. 2d. Develop open space to reinforce People often participate in arts in public Tauranga City Council Ongoing Arts and Culture local sense of place and identity through spaces such as parks and town squares. in partnership with Strategy the placement and incorporation of public Open spaces can deﬁ ne neighbourhoods Creative Tauranga and art and interpretative signage. with strong reference to character, history Tangata Whenua Urban Design Strategy and identity. This will be a key requirement in the Smart Living Places development and review of reserve management plans and can be applied Interpretive Signage to the Smart Living Places Residential Policy Intensiﬁ cation Project. 28 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

2e. Review the Code of Practice for The Code of Practice is a tool that can Tauranga City Council Costs already Short Term Transportation Strategy Development to ensure open space meets be further enhanced by incorporating identiﬁ ed in 2005/06. best practise requirements, good design best practice procedures and design Urban Design Strategy and application of the CPTED principles. considerations. Project underway Vegetation Strategy A review of the Code of Practice is scheduled to occur in 2005/2006.

2f. Develop Best Practice Guides for all The best practice guidelines can also Tauranga City Council New Project Short Term Urban Design Strategy open space areas such as active reserves, incorporate outcomes from other $15,000 esplanade reserves, local purpose strategies such as the Urban Design Year 1 (06/07) Vegetation Strategy reserves, urban spaces and passive open Strategy and Vegetation Strategy. spaces. This should consider both location and development of open spaces. The best practice guidelines should then be made readily available to developers Develop and implement in management and the community and used as a key tool plans. to ensure that good quality open space is achieved and maintained. Apply to land acquisition.

Ensure effective communication of best practice guidelines to the community.

2g. Undertake analysis on the quality The outcomes of this work will need to Tauranga City Council New Project Short Term Sport and Active Living and use of existing active reserves to be considered in the context of the active (Possibility of other Strategy determine the most efﬁ cient approach to reserves network, application of the funding sources Year 1 (06/07) the provision of playing surfaces. level of service of 1.7ha/1000 for active contributing to this reserves, and the role that the provision project). Assess in terms of the active reserve of indoor facilities plays in providing for network, level of service and indoor facility physical activity. $15,000 provision.

Outcomes to guide Development Contributions Policy community infrastructure requirements and levels of service for active reserve development. ACTIONS 2h. Ensure all parks and open space Ensures clear understanding of the Tauranga City Council Project part of existing Ongoing review and areas have current management plans management objectives for open space reserve management development of reserve and implementation plans that provide and information on when actions will plan budget allocation. management plans over policy guidance to the management and occur and how much they will cost. $20,000 for each the 10 year LTCCP period. development of these areas. reserve management plan. 10 year Establish a 10 year programme for the programme to be development and review of management incorporated into plans. Include resources in the LTCCP. LTCCP.

29 3. Open Space Function: Having the right mix

What we want to achieve • Premier Parks The goal: Tauranga has a range of good quality open spaces that allow for a variety of uses and experiences. The level of service discussions for playgrounds These open spaces contribute strongly to the city considered the development of destination playgrounds environment and identity by defi ning and enhancing urban that provide a different level of service to local areas. neighbourhood playgrounds. Destination playgrounds are of such a scale that people make a special trip just to get there, often driving past one or more neighbourhood Where we are now playgrounds on the way. Council’s only genuine destination playground is at Memorial Park. Through the level of service discussions Council resolved to develop Types of Open Space a second destination playground on the Mount/Papamoa peninsula and evaluate options for the best location Council provides a diversity of open space experiences. for this. In the same way that we have destination There is no quantitative standard on how much open playgrounds, we also have destination parks or ‘premier space we should have except for reserves determined parks’. Logically, a destination playground is located on a by the 3.45ha/1000 level of service. Further work should premier park. Premier parks are large parks that provide be carried out to identify opportunities for areas that a unique experience or point of difference to other parks enhance the existing open space network and provide a or open space areas across the city. They are parks greater diversity of experiences for the community and that people will travel to get to. Features such as model visitors alike. This could be achieved through recognising railways, band rotundas, fountains and natural landscape what we have now and how we could capitalise on this, features create a different level of service to local or and through strategic partnerships and approaches such neighbourhood parks. These parks need to be promoted as the development of the subregional parks network. as providing a premier experience. Categorising existing Categorising types of open space will also highlight the or future parks as premier parks will assist in defi ning different purposes and values of these areas and identify the appropriate level of service for development of these where gaps in the network exist. Some of the types of parks and how these parks fi t within the wider open parks highlighted during consultation on the Open Space space network. Strategy are discussed below.

30 • Heritage Parks collections with a difference. Together these parks could The Greenbelt Zone in the District Plan form a network of garden parks across the city. This There are a number of historic and cultural reserves would be recognised as another “layer” of park types Green corridors and gullies provide natural greenbelts around Tauranga that in addition to their historic or within the open space network. and a natural fl ow of water to the harbour. They provide cultural signifi cance and values, contribute to the open opportunities for walkway/cycleway linkages, visual space network. These areas could be developed and With gardening being such a popular leisure pursuit and separation between developed areas, and signifi cant recognised as part of a network of open space heritage section sizes decreasing with residential intensifi cation, areas of amenity. There are a number of emerging issues parks. This could be recognised through a generic the establishment of community gardens may become with the purpose, ownership, control and maintenance reserve management plan for heritage parks that popular. The Merivale Neighbourhood Plan identifi ed the of these areas that are generally zoned Greenbelt or recognises the connections between these spaces and need for a community garden, however, an appropriate Conservation in the District Plan. It is perceived that provides the ability to take an historical journey through site has not yet been found. An area of Council land there is a poor understanding of the value or intended Tauranga, exploring both European and Maori heritage in Ohauiti was also leased for the development of a use of these areas. The District Plan provisions primarily and culture. community garden. In some countries community relate to stormwater objectives rather than amenity. gardens are valued as open spaces and places for Recently a number of subdivision developments have Creating linkages both physically (where appropriate) socialising and relaxing. Public amenities such as slowly eroded the amount of land included in the and historically between heritage parks, and educating benches, play areas and art have been added to increase Greenbelt zone. the community on the signifi cance of these areas could their value as community centres, and contribute to the build on the work in Tauranga Tomorrow which as a diversity of open spaces. There is no requirement for Council to purchase land priority action seeks to identify ways to tell the history of zoned greenbelt in the District Plan however there Tauranga to help people understand our identity. Habitat Retention and Enhancement is often a community and/or developer expectation that Council should purchase this land and/or that it is Cemeteries also make a contribution to the open space Public open space can retain and enhance existing protected as a greenbelt for the City. Further clarifi cation network through providing some localised areas of open habitats and areas of signifi cant vegetation and landform on the purpose of the Greenbelt zone is required from space and amenity, as well as heritage sites. Cemeteries within urban environments, particuarly in areas of both a Council and community perspective to enable a are unique in that they provide an unchanging landscape redevelopment. Streets also provide the opportunity to clear position to be made on Council’s involvement in the that is protected from development and should therefore develop wildlife corridors. Water courses frequently greenbelt. not be undervalued. Cemeteries provide important support a wider diversity of habitats and retention of places for quiet contemplation. Their mature trees such habitats can benefi t the preservation of animal The strategic direction from SmartGrowth and Tauranga support biodiversity in busy urban areas. and bird populations within urban areas. Such benefi ts Tomorrow indicates a desire to provide green corridors have ecological as well as recreation and amenity throughout the City and this needs to be taken into values. The Conservation Zone in the District Plan is in consideration when reviewing the Greenbelt zone. • Garden Parks THE RIGHT MIX HAVING place to provide appropriate rules for the protection of A stronger focus could be placed on recreation, biodiversity and amenity of greenbelt corridors in the Tauranga is now working towards the establishment of ecologically sensitive coastal and harbour margins and District Plan provisions. Council will also need to its fi rst botanical garden. The botanical gardens will indigenous habitats. The integration of existing habitats identify where land is required to be secured in public be part of the open space network and could provide and natural areas within public open space also offers ownership to achieve the strategic objectives. opportunities for more garden park areas across the city. the potential to provide varied settings, and relief and This could include formal gardens, theme parks, and separation between residential areas.

31 Esplanade Reserves designation process, rights of access agreements and community building reserves. Identifying reserves that to the possibilities of subdivision to secure esplanade are provided for a specifi c facility purpose and adopting The provision of esplanade reserves is a key mechanism reserve links. a “Sportville” approach to the development of these for achieving a number of Council’s objectives outlined reserves will assist in ensuring that other areas of open in the Walking and Cycling Strategy, SmartGrowth There is a need for a strategic approach to determine space do not become encumbered with facilities and and Tauranga Tomorrow. For example, an action in whether or not a reduction or waiver in the width of retain their open space values. It is also necessary to SmartGrowth is to “Provide, restore and maintain esplanade reserve is appropriate. This should be ensure that reserves used specifi cally for facilities do continuous harbour margins that provide for public considered in the context of Council strategies and still retain some open space opportunities as part of their access and natural character.” The harbour and its policies such as the Walking and Cycling Strategy or development. margins have the potential to become one of the City’s Transportation Strategy and Vegetation Strategy. There greatest strengths, with the opportunity to improve may also be some areas where Council requires more Often when evaluating potential locations of community environmental quality, public access where appropriate, than the 20 metre width specifi ed in the legislation. and recreation facilities there is an emphasis on only and visual amenity. Where this is the case, this needs to be identifi ed in the considering Council owned land and areas that contribute Reserve Acquisition Plan, along with areas where the full to the open space network. The emphasis on siting Esplanade reserve can be acquired as part of the 20 metres is required. facilities should be considered in terms of providing resource consent subdivision process with a 20m width the best location for the facility rather than just looking specifi ed in the Resource Management Act 1991. The Buildings and Structures at Council owned land as the only means of siting the District Plan also provides the opportunity to waive or facility, and also look at factors such as promotion of good urban design and connections to public transport and reduce this requirement and in some cases this has In some cases open space values are already the cycle/pedestrian network. It is essential that where resulted in narrow esplanade reserves that cannot be compromised by the development of buildings and land included in the open space network is considered used for walkway access or signifi cant erosion may have structures, inappropriate landscaping or poor design as a potential location for a facility then this should be occurred. There are also areas where the land has not and layout. It is necessary to ensure that the primary balanced with the impact that this will have on the open been developed to its full potential; however the provision objective of all open space areas is to provide for space needs of the area. It is recognised that the use of of an esplanade reserve in these areas may achieve a open space values as outlined in the section “Why is Council owned land will generally reduce the overall cost key linkage between other areas. In some cases it may Open Space Important?” and that these values are not of the facility as it does not involve the purchase or lease be appropriate to consider land acquisition to enable compromised. Council to achieve the objectives of the open space of other land. However it is also necessary to ensure that the public open space network is not relied upon as being network in advance of subdivision. Consideration also Some reserves or other land in Council ownership may the sole provider of land for facilities. needs to be given to potential methods for securing land not have signifi cant open space values as this may not such as the creation of esplanade strips, the use of the be the primary purpose of the reserve, for example,

32 Events

Events ranging in scale from community events to major events such as the Easter Jazz Festival often take place in open space areas. This adds to the diversity and use of the open space network. Some parks may be formally recognised as being used for events such as Wharepai Domain which serves as a major events park and inner city green space. The Active Reserves Management Plan Viewing Places has identifi ed that a permanent stage will be developed on Wharepai Domain to use for events. Other open space The topography of Tauranga provides excellent areas have more informal use for community or other types opportunities for viewing signifi cant landscapes such of events. as the harbour, coastal and river areas and the urban environment. In some cases open space has been created In some areas, events - whether formal or informal can to primarily provide view shafts to these areas. There create vibrant open space environments and should be are other opportunities for providing open space areas encouraged and recognised in the relevant management primarily for the purpose of securing view shafts and plans. Tauranga Tomorrow and the Wairoa River Valley providing public access to these areas. This has already Strategy both recognise the need to explore options for been identifi ed in the Wairoa River Valley Strategy where outdoor venues for open air family events as a way of an action requires the provision of viewing areas to the enhancing the vibrancy of the community. The Active Wairoa River Valley. Reserves Management Plan also recognises that events are very popular in Tauranga and that certain parks are THE RIGHT MIX HAVING The provision and development of open space areas well set up to cater for such events. The Management should also consider the opportunities for providing views Plan requires the provision of infrastructure and services of signifi cant landscapes or the urban environment from required for large events on specifi c parks that can cater the open space network, and enhancing views into the for this use. open space network from other areas (both public and private).

33 Urban spaces in the CBD, Town Centres development recognises the value of urban areas of the Environment Bay of Plenty Regional Parks Policy open space to this area and the need to retain, enhance both identify the securing of a coastal park as a high and Neighbourhoods and link existing public open spaces with the rest of the priority in the establishment of these park networks. This CBD and waterfront area. provides opportunities for a collaborative approach to Open spaces can provide a social and physical focus achieve this common objective as a high priority. for new and existing neighbourhoods, creating a sense of community and providing valuable linkages to other Harbour/Coastal/River Parks Opportunities for the development of a harbour park neighbourhoods and town centres. The provision of which could assist in providing connections around the quality open space within these areas create a hub for Tauranga is fortunate to have harbour and coastal parks harbour and a larger area for passive recreation and community activity and vibrancy while providing visual that provide access to the water and opportunities for access to the harbour should be explored. Through relief, or framing the built environment. Future planning passive recreation in a water based setting. These the Joint Subregional Parks Policy Tauranga City for comprehensive development areas and the further include Tye Park, Rotary Park, Fergusson Park, Pilot Bay, Council and Western Bay of Plenty District Council have development of Residential Intensiﬁ cation Areas through Kulim Park and Marine Park. Where natural features purchased land at Plummers Point for a passive harbour Smart Living Places needs to consider the provision such as the coastline, the harbour and rivers exist in side park called the Huharua Harbour Park. There may of open spaces and the connections within and to urban areas, these features become attractions to the also be opportunities for providing harbour parks within surrounding neighbourhood centres, town centres and community and there is an expectation that opportunities the Tauranga City area that link to and enhance the rest the Central Business District (CBD). for access to such areas should be provided and of the harbour reserves network. protected from private development either through The Tauranga Waterfront and Central Business District esplanade reserves or larger public parks. Much of The Wairoa River Valley Strategy requires the development is an example of how open space values our culture and recreation is based on access to the identiﬁ cation and protection of land for public reserves can be recognised and integrated into the development outdoors, whether it is in the mountains, countryside, on (either as esplanade with a 20 metre minimum width or to of the waterfront and CBD. This development seeks rivers and lakes or the coastline. provide views of the river valley and recreational space) to position the CBD and waterfront as a special place or a river park to create an open space or green corridor for the people of Tauranga, with a diverse range of The Joint Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of along this area that can be appreciated by all. activities and attractive spaces for people to use. This Plenty District Council Subregional Parks Policy and

34 Open Space Function: Actions

Multiple Use of Open Space The Function Actions have strong linkages to The Function Actions have strong linkages to Tauranga Tomorrow identifi es that the multiple use of open spaces should be encouraged as a priority action. the following Tauranga Tomorrow actions: the following SmartGrowth actions: This includes recreation, walking and cycling, ecological linkages and protection of features such as landscape • Supplement existing broad-scale landscape • Providing a network of open space and leisure and cultural areas. Open spaces can provide for a variety assessments by identifying more specifi c natural opportunities via community partnerships of functions which is already well recognised in the features, cultural, ancestral, historic features, • Initiating and supporting open space and leisure City through the provision of stormwater reserves that landforms, remnant areas of natural bush and opportunities that refl ect and identity with the also contribute to the amenity, ecology and recreational ecological corridors subregion opportunities available. Other open space areas may also • Identify and protect (or acquire) open space ‘green • Providing appropriate opportunities for public access provide for more than the primary purpose of the land. corridors’ to both connect and defi ne the edges of to rural and natural areas Council could make use of other examples of multiple future neighbourhoods • Reviewing district plan greenbelt and transport uses of open space areas such as the perimeter walkway • Identify and protect an interconnected open space corridors to enhance use and identify opportunities around Nelson airport that links to the rest of Nelson’s network. Ensure that multiple use of open space is for securing land for green corridors walkways network. encouraged and that these are active spaces • Promoting initiatives for trails to showcase heritage overlooked by people in adjacent buildings wherever values and the environment possible • Explore opportunities to provide large areas of • Work with community facility owners to develop coastal land connected corridors and passive recreation • Provide, restore and maintain continuous harbour opportunities to ensure that green spaces and margins that provide for public access and natural greenbelts are retained and developed, especially in character. areas of urban intensifi cation • Enhance existing natural environment spaces to ensure the community has a diverse range of public places and spaces to enjoy, especially in ACTIONS areas of high development intensity • Improve walking and cycling linkages within Tauranga so people can walk and cycle around the harbour. WHAT WE WILL DO

35 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

3a. Apply the categories outlined in This recognises the diversity of types and Tauranga City Council Ongoing Appendix C to the public open space experiences available in the open space network and to the development of network. generic reserve management plans where appropriate, and Asset Management Plans.

3b. The multiple use of open space and This is an efﬁ cient use of open space Tauranga City Council Ongoing Vegetation Strategy Council land will be encouraged where whereby multiple objectives can be appropriate. realised. For example, stormwater Transportation Strategy reserves can also provide areas for Identify opportunities for multiple use of amenity, recreation, connectivity, Sport and Active Living open space and other Council land through walkways, and ecology. Urban spaces Strategy the Area Unit Analysis. Ensure good such as squares provide points for social design of spaces which are adaptable to contact, events and opportunities to relax. Urban Design Strategy changing needs. This provides diversity and a range of Ensure good cross divisional communication experiences to the community. when the future of Council owned land and open space is being considered.

3c. Review the District Plan provisions The objectives of the greenbelt zone and Tauranga City Council This plan change Short Term Vegetation Strategy for the greenbelt zone to recognise intended ownership of these areas need has been included Council’s strategic objectives as outlined to be redeﬁ ned to recognise where land and prioritised within Year 1 (06/07) Transportation Strategy in SmartGrowth and Tauranga Tomorrow is in private ownership and where it is in existing budget to create green corridors. public ownership and achieves a number allocations for plan Year 2 (07/08) of strategic objectives such as amenity, changes. Identify areas where land may be required stormwater, recreation etc. to achieve Council’s strategic objectives and include in the Reserve Acquisition Plan and/or apply other methods that may achieve objectives such as easements or covenant arrangements with landowners.

3d. Evaluate options for developing Premier parks provide a different type of Tauranga City Council New Project Medium Term an existing area within the open space experience from that of City Parks as they $5,000 network as a premier or destination park. can have unique features or the type of Year 4 (09/10) experience that people will travel to get Consider potential locations through the to and spend more time at than City Parks. Area Unit Analysis. An example of an existing premier park is Memorial Park as the features on this park Undertake an evaluation of the options, are unique and of a higher level of service considering criteria that makes a premier than other parks within the City. park successful. Identify level of service for premier parks.

36 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

3e. e Encourage the use of the open space The open space network can provide Tauranga City Council Ongoing Arts and Culture network for events where appropriate. opportunities for events of a scale and Strategy nature that is appropriate for the area. Identify in the relevant reserve This can range from large scale events to Tourism and Strategy management plans where this may be an smaller local community events. appropriate use of an area and provide Wairoa River Valley necessary infrastructure. Strategy

3f. Identify opportunities for Tauranga is fortunate to have the Tauranga City Council Costs will be identifi ed Land purchase will occur Wairoa River Valley incorporating land into the open space topography that allows signifi cant views in the Reserve over the 10 year LTCCP Strategy network that provide key viewing areas of the water, rivers, urban landscape, rural Acquisition Plan and period, therfore the of signifi cant landscapes such as Mauao, landscape and the hills. It is necessary incorporated into the action will be carried out the Wairoa River and the Welcome Bay to ensure that some areas of land that LTCCP. in the short, medium and Hills. provide these views are accessible to the long term. public and protected in perpetuity. Include in the Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Acquisition Plan.

3g. Review and update the report on To provide a comprehensive analysis Tauranga City Council New Project Short Term Transportation Strategy the Tauranga District Esplanade Reserves of where esplanade reserve has been $20,000 Network (Beca 1994) with a view to stating acquired, where it is yet to be acquired, Year 2 (07/08) Vegetation Strategy the desired esplanade reserves network. where more than 20m is required and Review District Plan requirements where land should be secured prior to any and undertake District Plan Change (if subdivision of the land. required).

Incorporate into Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Acquisition Plan.

3h. Review the District Plan esplanade This ensures that future requirements for Tauranga City Council This plan change Short Term Transportation Strategy reserve provisions for assessing esplanade reserve recognise Council’s has been included esplanade reserve waivers and reductions strategic objectives for harbour and and prioritised within Year 5 (10/11) Vegetation Strategy ACTIONS and establish criteria that ensure Councils coastal margins. the existing budget objectives for harbour access and allocations for plan preservation are not compromised. changes.

Undertake District Plan Change (if required) to include appropriate criteria.

37 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

3i. Require planning processes around To enhance the vitality of these areas and Tauranga City Council This action will Short Term Urban Design Strategy the CBD, neighbourhood centres and town provide relief from the built environment. be implemented centres to include a variety of public open This could include pocket parks in through the Smart spaces. commercial areas, viewing areas, areas Living Places project for socialisation and gathering points eg and other relevent Incorporate into Smart Living Places and Greerton Village Square, Tauranga CBD/ projects such as the structure plans for growth areas. Waterfront, downtown Mount Maunganui. CBD Integration tool.

3j. In collaboration with other As the city grows, the use and Costs will be identiﬁ ed Costs already Short Term Wairoa River Valley organisations explore opportunities for expectations for access to existing in the Reserve identiﬁ ed in Action 1h. Strategy expanding the existing harbour, river and parks that adjoin water areas is likely to Acquisition Plan and coastal park network. increase. incorporated into the Joint Subregional Parks LTCCP. Policy Review the Joint Subregional Parks There may also be open space Policy to identify further opportunities for opportunities that arise at more of a local harbour/river and coastal parks. level; however the focus is on working with other organisations to achieve Incorporate into Area Unit Analysis and common objectives. Reserve Acquisition Plan.

3k. Develop a Community Facilities Some areas of open space have Tauranga City Council New Project Short Term Sportville Policy Strategy that considers: community facilities located on them that $15,000 - What are community facilities detract from the open space values of the Year 1 (06/07) Community Share - Role and function of community facilities area. It may be appropriate to consider Agreement Policy - Whether a network approach is required relocation of these facilities onto a - The appropriate location for community speciﬁ c community building reserve (this Sport and Active Living facilities has occurred with the Industrial Reserves Strategy - Where existing community facilities Management Plan). could be relocated to a more appropriate place As a preference community facilities - What community facilities are required should be located on land that is primarily - Where community facilities could be for this purpose eg community building grouped together to provide a Sportville reserves. type model and free up other areas of open space. Approach Western Bay of Plenty District Council to consider as a subregional strategy. Link to Development Contributions Policy and community building reserve requirements.

38 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

3l. Develop a gardens network This network would include the botanic Tauranga City Council New Project Long Term Vegetation Strategy through the use of existing open space, gardens, and other existing open space $5,000 Year 7 (12/13) incorporation of private land opportunities areas that provide a unique garden and consideration of land purchase that experience. The establishment of inner may contribute to this network. city formal garden areas could also contribute to this network. Different Identify existing garden areas and areas of the city could provide themes potential garden areas. or create an international collection of garden types. The Vegetation Strategy will Establish network through generic provide information on potential sites for management plan approach, signage, and incorporation into this network. communications information. Establish levels of service for the network.

3m. Develop a heritage places network This will provide an historic trail of the Tauranga City Council Undertake as part of Short Term Smart Living Places that includes cemeteries and historic European and Maori history of the City, the Historic Reserves sites. This can be through the use of while recognising the open space values Historic Places Trust Management Plan Urban Design Strategy existing open space and consideration of that these areas have. This could include Process (budget other areas that may enhance the heritage both public and private land and will not Tangata Whenua allocation included in Arts and Culture places network. necessarily require public access to these Action 2h). Strategy spaces. Identify existing heritage open space Iwi and Hapu areas. Management Plans

Identify potential heritage areas. This could include character areas as identiﬁ ed in Smart Living Places.

Establish network through generic management plan approach, signage, and communications information. ACTIONS

39 4. Accessibility of Open Space: Getting people there to use and enjoy!

Community Awareness provision through the establishment of a regional parks What we want to achieve network. This has resulted in the establishment of three Accessibility is also about ensuring that the community regional/subregional parks over the last three years that The goal: The community are aware of and have good provide valuable areas of open space and recreation access to the open space network. The ability to access, are aware that the open space network exists. Council currently promotes open spaces and speciﬁ c park opportunities. The establishment of care groups such as use and enjoy Tauranga’s open space is recognised as a the Matua Saltmarsh Advisory Committee, Carmichael major contributor to people’s quality of life. projects through a variety of methods; pamphlets and brochures, signage, Tauranga City Council website and Reserve Advisory Group and Coastcare, and local Our City Views. Further work can be done to increase community groups should be encouraged to recognise Where we are now awareness and understanding of the value of open the valuable role that these groups can play in the space. A good international example of increasing establishment of the open space network. accessibility and awareness of open space occurred Physical and Visual Access in the City of Bristol where maps illustrate a radius of distance, such as 1km or 2km, and include advice Tauranga has a variety of open space areas, some on what is accessible within that walking distance. of which are well known and very accessible to the A Tauranga open space network fun map could be community while other areas are not as well known considered as an interesting way of communicating this and often only accessible to those living in the vicinity. information. Accessibility is about ensuring that people can walk to an area of open space from their home. As referred to in Another way of increasing community awareness of the level of service discussion, Council is applying a 400 open space is through involvement in care groups, metre and 500 metre catchment to determine where open consultation processes on reserve management plans, space needs to be provided to ensure good accessibility and speciﬁ c park projects and community volunteer to open space. Accessibility is also about ensuring good days. A successful example of active community visual access to the open space network. People value involvement is the Regional Parks Establishment Group. looking out at the hills around Welcome Bay, the Kaimais This group of interested individuals successfully lobbied and other areas of the open space network that are both Western Bay of Plenty and Tauranga City Council’s in public and private ownership. to address growth issues relating to open space

40 Open Space Accessibility: Actions

Water Catchment Areas WHAT WE WILL DO Tauranga City Council owns large areas of land in the Western Bay of Plenty District that are used for water The Accessibility Actions have strong linkages The Accessibility Actions have strong linkages catchment purposes. Some of these areas could be to the following Tauranga Tomorrow actions: to the following SmartGrowth actions: opened up to provide specifi c public access opportunities and/or linkages to other open space areas. This would • Create living streets that prioritise living and • Providing a network of open space and leisure provide access to a rural/forestry environment within community interaction, where residents, businesses, opportunities via community partnerships. close proximity to the urban environment. It would be pedestrians, cyclists and cars can safely share space. • Initiating and supporting open space and leisure necessary to ensure that the water quality of the area is • Identify and protect an interconnected open space opportunities that refl ect an identity with the not affected by community access and use. network. Ensure that multiple use of open space is subregion. encouraged and that these are active spaces • Providing appropriate opportunities for public access Encroachment overlooked by people in adjacent buildings wherever to rural and natural areas. possible. Encroachment on reserve land is an ongoing issue for • Work with community facility owners to develop Council. This has resulted in the community not feeling connected corridors and passive recreation like they are able to access areas of public open space. opportunities to ensure that green spaces and Council has an encroachment policy which states that no greenbelts are retained and developed, especially in encroachment shall be permitted within reserves located areas of urban intensifi cation. in Tauranga. It is necessary to ensure that this policy is • Enhance existing natural environment spaces for all continually enforced and that public open spaces are to enjoy to ensure the community has a diverse range developed in such a way as to encourage public access. of public places and spaces to enjoy, especially in areas of high development intensity. ACTIONS

41 What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

4a. Enforce Council’s encroachment To contribute towards continuous access Tauranga City Council Costs for resourcing Short term policy to ensure open space values are to harbour margins (as required by additional staff retained in esplanade reserve areas. SmartGrowth) and to ensure the community included in level of are aware of and have access to public service discussions. open space.

4b. Undertake a comprehensive public This will assist in increasing awareness Tauranga City Council Will be undertaken Ongoing Integrated Transport awareness programme to promote the of the open space network and the values as part of internal Strategy open space network and new open space of this network. This will provide the allocated costs for opportunities and the linkages within this opportunity to actively promote areas and communications. Urban Design Strategy network (to ensure legibility of routes and ﬁ nd out what peoples needs are in each make facilities easy to use - see Transport area. Strategy). Produce local and citywide information brochures that include radius to show distance to open space. Produce an open space network fun map. Include on Council’s internet site a search engine for open space locations and types of activities that can occur within the open space network.

4c. Encourage communities to become This encourages the community to value Tauranga City Council Ongoing involved in open space through schemes open space areas, and to be involved in such as “adopt a park”, care groups or the protection and preservation of the open space forums. open space network.

Encourage through management plan processes and speciﬁ c park projects.

4d. Explore opportunities for public Water catchment areas are in Council Tauranga City Council Costs already Short Term access to water catchment areas ownership which may provide in partnership with identiﬁ ed in Action 1f. where the values of the area are not opportunities for public access. For Western Bay of Plenty compromised. example through the provision of District Council walkways, possible connections between Include in review of Joint Subregional subregional parks and other public land. Parks Policy.

4e. Monitor community perceptions This provides a basis for determining the Tauranga City Council Ongoing on the open space network. This would satisfaction levels with the open space include consideration of accessibility, network. quality, quantity, protection and function. See section in the strategy on monitoring. 42 5. Protection of Open Space: Keeping it safe

Where land falls under the defi nition of park in the Local network. This could also outline the degree of protection What we want to achieve Government Act 2002, a local authority is required to afforded by each method and circumstances where consult on any proposal to sell or otherwise dispose particular methods may be more appropriate over other The goal: Tauranga’s open space is protected and of the park. The Reserves Act also requires a full methods (refer to Quantity Action 1c). preserved through a variety of mechanisms for the use consultation process and Ministerial approval to be and enjoyment of current and future generations. provided for any revocation of a reserve classifi cation Tangata Whenua have indicated that it is important to and the District Plan requires a plan change process to identify sites for protection and to consider a broad band alter any zone boundaries on reserves. of areas, not just specifi c isolated sites. The open space Where we are now values and views in areas surrounding marae, urupa and There is a need to adopt a consistent approach to the waahi tapu sites need to be retained as protective buffer Protection Methods zoning of open space in accordance with the District zones. These areas could be identifi ed through Iwi and Plan and the classifi cation of open space in accordance Hapu Management Plans with the most appropriate form There are a number of mechanisms available to protect with the Reserves Act 1977. This will need to apply to of protection being determined through the management the open space network. The primary methods include most existing open space and future open space areas plan processes. Tangata Whenua has also indicated the use of Recreation and Conservation zones in the and can be achieved through the development of reserve that they must be able to continue active customary and District Plan, vesting and classifying reserves under the management plans and plan changes through the District traditional practices on particular open space areas. Reserves Act 1977, and the Local Government Act 2002. Plan. This will assist in clearly defi ning the purpose and Generally open space is vested and classifi ed as reserve intended use of public land included (or to be included) in It is also recognised that developments on multiple under the Reserves Act, however, it is recognised that in the open space network. owned Maori land provide a unique combination of some circumstances it may be more appropriate to apply recreational and open space opportunities along the Local Government Act 2002 provisions. This may be Covenants are another way of protecting land and the with rural, residential, social, cultural and economic where there are diffi culties associated with applying the use of incentives such as rates relief has been applied activities. Legislation such as the Te Ture Whenua Reserves Act provisions to the intended use of the park. to encourage protection of private land for open space Maori Act facilitates and promotes the retention, use This has been the case with the TECT All Terrain Park values or heritage and landscape protection. and development of Maori land by Maori owners, their that is in joint Tauranga City Council and Western Bay of whanau, their hapu and their descendants. It would be benefi cial to defi ne the various methods Plenty District Council ownership. KEEPING IT SAFE available to Council and to private landowners that enable protection of land included in the open space

43 Heritage and Cultural Areas • Land surrounding Tauranga Harbour • Mauao, Mount Drury, Moturiki and Motuotau Islands The Tauranga District Plan requires heritage items • The coastal edge of Tauranga airport registered in the Heritage Register to be retained and protected. Council Policy requires that where public • Matapihi peninsula (all land seaward of the Coastal ownership of a heritage item as part of a development is Landscape Policy Area) the preferred option, then the land be vested in Council • Maungatawa and Upuhue Hills at no cost. Development of the area and maintenance costs is required to be undertaken also at no cost to • Papamoa coastal dunes Council. • Otemataha • Waimapu Stream and marshlands and margins In some situations Council has decided to acquire sites of heritage and cultural signifi cance, such as Otumoetai • Wairoa River and margins Pa in Matua and the Papamoa Hills Cultural Heritage • Matua wetlands and margins Regional Park, in order to ensure the protection of these • Tauranga Harbour. sites in perpetuity and provide the ability for the public to appreciate the signifi cance of the sites. In the future Council has a role in provision of open space within there may be other opportunities to incorporate heritage some of these areas and/or administering and managing and cultural sites into the open space network either as this open space. Opportunities for having a greater feature areas in a park or reserves and/or as part of the degree of Council control in terms of protection of heritage network referred to in the Open Space Strategy. these sites could be explored. This may include the These areas do not necessarily have to be in Council development of management plans for streams, rivers ownership (refer Quantity Action 1e). and wetlands or developing a more strategic approach to the future management and development of specifi c Outstanding District Landscapes landscape areas. An example of this approach is the development of the Wairoa River Valley Strategy. This The Tauranga District Plan recognises the need to also recognises the contribution that open spaces make protect and enhance outstanding landscapes in the within the Western Bay of Plenty District to the open city. The following outstanding district landscapes have space network. been identifi ed and methods put in place to protect and enhance these areas:

44 Open Space Protection: Actions WHAT WILL WE DO

The Protection Actions have strong linkages to the The Protection Actions have strong linkages to the following Tauranga Tomorrow actions: following SmartGrowth actions:

• Identify and protect an interconnected open space network. • Initiating and supporting open space and leisure opportunities Ensure that multiple use of open space is encouraged and that that reﬂ ect an identity with the subregion. these are active spaces overlooked by people in adjacent buildings wherever possible.

What will we do? Why will we do it? Who will lead it? What will it cost? When will it happen? Strategy Linkages?

5a. Ensure all public land included in This enables a consistent approach to Tauranga City Council Costs for plan Short Term the open space network is appropriately ensure that the land zone refl ects the changes have zoned in the Tauranga District Plan. intended use and purpose of the land. been included and Year 3 (08/09) prioritised in the Review all zones identifi ed in the open This may require reviewing existing zones existing budget space network to ensure they refl ect the to see whether they are appropriate and allocation for plan purpose of the land. refl ect the key objectives of the land, for changes. example the Greenbelt zones. Undertake a plan change where it is recommended that a new zone be applied.

5b. Ensure land required for public open This ensures the land is protected and Tauranga City Council Costs included in Ongoing space is either classifi ed as reserve under requires a public consultation process to costs of development the Reserves Act 1977 or as a park under be undertaken if any land is intended to of reserve the Local Government Act 2002. be sold. management plans. ACTIONS Review reserve land classifi cation to ensure consistency and that it refl ects the primary purpose. Undertake process to vest and classify land if considered appropriate.

(Note that this could be done as part of the reserve management planning process)

45 Areas deﬁ ned by Areas deﬁ Linkages and Areas of the city not

Land that primarily provides The six growth areas identifi ed in The six growth areas identifi connections between open space areas can be achieved through a variety of means: additional open space, streets that provide linkages through enhanced streetscapes or different street treatments, signage, visual connections and walkway connections so on. General Residential Areas: cation Areas, included in the Residential Intensifi Comprehensive Development Areas or Urban Growth Areas. Linked and Connected Network: Neighbourhood Reserve: for use by local communities casual recreation, play, links to other areas, or quiet relaxation, community activity, open space. Neighbourhood reserves also provide visual contrast in the urban environment. cation Areas: Residential Intensifi the Council through Smart Living Places project and subsequent District Plan changes that provide greater high density or mixed use opportunity for medium density, ned geographic areas. types of development within defi Urban Growth Areas: Bethlehem, the District Plan as Bethlehem, West Bay and Papamoa. Pyes Pa, Ohauiti, Welcome These are the

Land that is provided For the purpose of Open

Large reserves that provide for a wide

range of activities including formal sports, events and casual use, and provide wide open green space within the urban environment. Access or accessible: Space Strategy this means providing open space within walking distance of urban residences, having visual access to open space and being aware of where space is located. Active Reserve: Community Building Reserve: for public amenities such as local community halls and centres. Comprehensive Development Areas: Papamoa East Stage urban growth areas of Pyes Pa West, 1 and Papamoa East Stage 2 where: • ned geographic area which there is a clearly defi ed in the District Plan and is being is/will be identifi comprehensively planned as an urban growth area; and: • the District Plan has distinct and separate provisions relating to subdivision, development and services of the area; and: • the area meets SmartGrowth requirements of 15 lots per net developable hectare. nitions Defi 46 Monitoring and Review

We will be able to measure the • The Quality of Life Project was established in 1999 to provide social, economic and environmental indicators implementation of The Open Space Strategy of quality of life in New Zealand’s six largest cities. It through the following processes: was initiated in response to growing pressures on urban communities, concern about the impacts of urbanisation • The State of Environment Report assesses how well and the effects of this on the well being of residents. Council are meeting the resource management The Quality of Life Project has been expanded recently challenges that the city faces and what may be needed to include twelve territorial authorities. Most of these to improve some areas. The report aims to meet urban areas are part of the Metropolitan Sector of Local Council’s obligations for reporting on the state Government New Zealand and are either urban in of environment under section 35 of the Resource nature or are facing high urban growth on the fringe of Management Act 1991 and provide an information base urban areas. Rodney, Tauranga, Porirua and Hutt for a wide range of organisations, schools, residents ofﬁ cially joined the Quality of Life Project team in April and ratepayers. The State of Environment Report 2004. One of the Quality of Life indicators is city green 2004 recognises that open space (parks and reserves) space within the built environment. is a key element in maintaining and enhancing amenity values in the City. The value people place on open • Community feedback through the Annual Plan and Long space, their perceptions of access to open space, Term Council Community Plan (LTCCP) on the open and changing use or demand, are considered to be space network. good indicators to assess amenity values. The indicators need to be aligned with the direction provided The Open Space Strategy will be reviewed within 10 years in the Open Space Strategy to ensure monitoring of being adopted by Council. The ongoing implementation reﬂ ects whether the Open Space Strategy is will be programmed in the 2006 LTCCP.

successfully being implemented. MONITORING AND REVIEW

47 Appendix Summary of Costs

Short Term 2006/07, 2007/08 and 2008/2009

Key Theme Action Ref Cost

Quantity 1a Identifi ed in LTCCP and Development Contributions Policy 1b Identifi ed in Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Acquisition Plan 1c Identifi ed as part of Planning for CDA’s and Smart Living Places 1f Identifi ed through Smart Living Places 1g Identifi ed through Smart Living Places 1h $ 10,000 1i $100,000

Quality 2b Project included in Vegetation Sttrategy 2e Costs already identiﬁ ed in 05/06 2g $ 15,000 2h $ 20,000 each RMP (assume one per year)

Function 3c Incorporated into the existing budget allocation for Plan Changes 3d $ 5,000 3f Identiﬁ ed in Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Acquisition Plan 3g $ 20,000 3i Implemented through Smart Living Places 3k $ 15,000

Accessibility 4a Costs already identiﬁ ed in level of service discussions

Protection 5a Incorporated into the existing budget allocation for Plan Changes

TOTAL SHORT TERM ACTIONS $210,000

48 Medium Term 2009/2010, 2010/2011 and 2011/2012

Key Theme Action Ref Cost

Quantity 1a Identifi ed in LTCCP and Development Contributions Policy 1b Identifi ed in Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Acquisition Plan 1c Identifi ed in planning for CDA’S and Smart Living Places 1e $ 5,000 Quality 2c Incorporated into the existing budget allocation for Plan Changes 2h $20,000 each RMP (assume one per year) 2f $15,000 Function 3d $ 5,000 3f Identifi ed in Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Acquisition Plan 3h Incorporated into the existing budget allocation for Plan Changes 3m Incorporated into the existing budget allocation for Reserve Management Plans

TOTAL MEDIUM TERM ACTIONS $85,000

Long Term Key Theme Action Ref Cost

Quantity 1a Identifi ed in LTCCP and Development Contributions Policy 1b Identifi ed in Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Acquisition Plan 1c Identifi ed in planning for CDAs and Smart Living Places Quality 2h $20,000 each RMP (Assume one per year) Function 3f Identifi ed in Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Aquisition Plan

3l $5,000 SUMMARY OF COSTS

TOTAL LONG TERM ACTIONS $65,000

TOTAL ALL ACTIONS $360,000

49 recognised that a different level of service will need 3. Consider the different methods available to address Appendix A to be considered to achieve neighbourhood reserve the issues and opportunities identifi ed in the above Criteria for assessing open space requirements in response to higher densities. The quantity evaluation. For example, additional parks, development of analysis will also recognise where other types of open streetscape, improved accessibility to open space areas, requirements in Residential Intensifi cation space additional to the core reserve areas of active, conservation of natural character areas, and maximising Areas neighbourhood and community building reserves exist, amenity of private spaces or on site amenity. and the contribution that these areas make to the open space characteristics of the area. 4. Integrate this information into structure plans and the The recommended process for assessing open space overall planning for Residential Intensifi cation Areas. requirements in Residential Intensifi cation Areas is as 2. Evaluate the current status of open space within the follows: residential intensifi cation areas and how this responds Through the Area Unit Analysis and Reserve Acquisition to the overall open space network. This will consider Plan it will be necessary to identify to what extent the 1. Evaluate the current status of open space within the the quality of open space through application of relevant existing level of service can be achieved in Residential Residential Intensifi cation Areas and how this responds criteria. This will identify strengths and weaknesses of Intensifi cation Areas, and apply the standards to to the overall open space network. This will consider the the existing open space network, and where opportunities assess how quality can be improved and the different quantity of open space through applying the 3.45ha/1000 may be available to improve the quality of existing open mechanisms available to achieve the open space level of service to existing and future populations. The space and/or opportunities for adding to the existing open objectives. level of service should still be used as a guide to initially space network. determine the ideal quantity of core reserve land. It is

50 Qualitative Considerations Appendix B Compatibility with adjacent land uses. Criteria for assessing future open space Are there specifi c or signifi cant land features on the site? Are there any encumbrances on the site? requirements Does the site provide water access? Does the site provide for the protection of habitat? This criteria will be applied to future requests/ Does the site provide view points or vistas? opportunities for land purchase that may contribute to What could be the purpose or role of the site in the open the open space network. This criteria will be applied in space network? accordance with the vision, principles, goals and actions Does the site provide valuable linkages to the current in the Open Space Strategy. open space network? Enhancement quality of existing open space eg more Need opportunities for use and development, more visible etc. Has there been signifi cant community demand expressed for purchase of this land? Quantitative Considerations Is the land purchase a priority at a local, citywide or Is the land required to meet the 3.45ha/1000 level of subregional level? service? (Note this only applies to active, neighbourhood and community building reserves.) Does the land purchase meet objectives identifi ed in other strategies or plans? (eg. Neighbourhood Plans, Reserve Is the land required to meet the 400m and 500 distances to Management Plans). open space level of service? Is the land purchase included in the LTCCP? Has the land purchase been included in the Reserve Process Considerations Acquisition Plan? Is acquisition the best way of securing the land? What APPENDIX What are the existing demographics of the area? alternative approaches may be worthwhile considering? Was it purchased for other purposes but has been What budget can be used for this land purchase? undeveloped and could become reserve?

51 Appendix C Categories of Public Open Space Level One

Regional/Subregional Parks: Iconic areas of land Coastal Reserves: All reserves included in the Coastal provided to meet the open space and recreation needs Reserves Management Plan (conservation and from throughout the region and subregion, as well as esplanade areas adjoining the coast and mainly in Crown needs of tourists and visitors from neighbouring areas. ownership.) These are associated with a natural feature of some signifi cance or are areas that have high recreational Harbour Reserves: All reserves included in the Harbour value. Reserves Management Plan (conservation and esplanade areas adjoining the harbour.) Premier Parks: Parks that provide a unique experience, generally have a higher level of service and that people Passive Reserves: A wide variety of open space that may will drive to (destination parks.) provide for general amenity, conservation, preservation, access or casual recreational use. Reserve types City Parks: Parks that range from small neighbourhood include garden parks, revegetation sites and stormwater reserves to large passive areas that provide open space reserves. and amenity to the City. Industrial Reserves: Reserve land within industrial zones Level Two as defi ned in the District Plan and as covered by the Industrial Reserves Management Plan. Active Reserves: The city’s larger parks that are primarily Land used specifi cally for used for organised sport and events. They are also used Community Building Reserves: the purpose of community buildings. for passive purposes and provide large areas of open green space. These parks are identifi ed in the Active Reserves that are of cultural or historic Reserves Management Plan. Historic Reserves: signifi cance. Neighbourhood Reserves: Land that primarily provides for use by local communities for casual recreation, play, relaxation, community activity, links to other areas, and amenity. These parks are identifi ed in the Neighbourhood Reserves Management Plan.