MEETING AGENDA
COUNCIL MEETING
Wednesday 28 October 2015 at 2pm
COUNCIL CHAMBER
Mayor Andrew Judd Deputy Mayor Cr Heather Dodunski Cr Keith Allum Cr Shaun Biesiek Cr Gordon Brown Cr Murray Chong Cr Grant Coward Cr Harry Duynhoven Cr Richard Handley Cr Colin Johnston Cr Richard Jordan Cr Craig McFarlane Cr Marie Pearce Cr Howie Tamati Cr Roy Weaver
2 COUNCIL AGENDA WEDNESDAY 28 OCTOBER 2015
Addressing the council Members of the public have an opportunity to address the council during the public forum section or as a deputation.
A public forum section of up to 30 minutes precedes all council meetings. Each speaker during the public forum section of a meeting may speak for up to 10 minutes. In the case of a group a maximum of 20 minutes will be allowed.
A request to make a deputation should be made to the secretariat within two working days before the meeting. The chairperson will decide whether your deputation is accepted. The chairperson may approve a shorter notice period. No more than four members of a deputation may address a meeting. A limit of 10 minutes is placed on a speaker making a presentation. In the case of a group a maximum of 20 minutes will be allowed.
Purpose of Local Government The reports contained in this agenda address the requirements of the Local Government Act 2002 in relation to decision making. Unless otherwise stated, the recommended option outlined in each report meets the purpose of local government and:
• Will help meet the current and future needs of communities for good-quality local infrastructure, local public services, and performance of regulatory functions in a way that is most cost-effective for households and businesses;
• Would not alter significantly the intended level of service provision for any significant activity undertaken by or on behalf of the Council, or transfer the ownership or control of a strategic asset to or from the Council.
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 3 COUNCIL AGENDA WEDNESDAY 28 OCTOBER 2015
APOLOGIES None advised
DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Elected members to indicate any conflicts of interest.
PUBLIC FORUM None advised
DEPUTATIONS Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve Lease (Baches) Submission Page No. Speakers Dianne Stokes 8 Gaelynn Gibbs 6 Richard Burton 13
Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Feedback No. Speakers Ross Whitmore (Fitzroy Golf Club) 43 Adrian Sole (Taranaki Golf Assn) 18 Brian Beer 20 Vicky Dombroski (Waitara Alive) 26 Judith Heeley (Riding for the Disabled) 10 James Livingston (New Plymouth and Districts 37 Clay Target Club) Anne Scott (Nga Motu Marine Reserve Society) 15 Ross Fulton (Sport Taranaki) 42 Doug Hislop (Kaitake Community Board) 21 Danae Etches (TSB Community Trust) 29
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REPORTS
A SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT - MINOR CHANGES TO DRAFT ANNUAL REPORT 2014/15 The matter for consideration by the Council is minor changes to the draft Annual Report 2014/15 following endorsement by the Audit and Risk Subcommittee on 19 October 2015. It is recommended that the minor changes to the draft Annual Report be endorsed and adopted with the Annual Report 2014/15. It is also recommended that the Council authorises the Mayor and Chief Executive to make any other minor editorial amendments to the Annual Report 2014/15 document deemed necessary before publication.
DRAFT ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2015 (2014/15) The matter for consideration by the Council is to note and endorse the draft Annual Report 2014/15.
Mr Ramoo will be in attendance and make a short presentation to the Council prior to consideration of this item.
B TONGAPORUTU RECREATION RESERVE LEASE PROPOSAL This report summarises the 95 objections/submissions received following public notification of the proposal to grant new 20 year term leases under the Reserves Act 1977, over the 26 bach sites that occupy 29% (0.7253 hectares) of the 2.5130 hectare coastal portion of the Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve with an average bach site area of 279m2 and discerns that:
• 85 submitters (90%) support the grant of new leases for 20 or 30 year term or for an unstated term, or retention of baches and that of the remaining 10 (10%) submitters/objectors where; • 3 submitters oppose the grant of new leases and 1 submitter seeks the removal of the baches. No submission received seeks revocation of reserve status. • 3 submissions are neutral and 4 are incomplete.
Makes no recommendation, but sets out the matters and the relevant statutory tests that the Council must address to give full consideration to all written and to the hearing of oral objection/submissions before reaching a decision.
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C OPEN SPACE, SPORT AND RECREATION STRATEGY The matter for consideration by the Council is the adoption of the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy.
D TRIAL OF FREE SATURDAY PARKING NOVEMBER 2015 TO MID-JANUARY 2016 The matter for consideration by the Council is to instruct officers to develop a trial for CBD parking in the pre-Christmas period and to investigate and report back on longer-term options for parking in the CBD.
E APPLICATION OF THE OPERATING SURPLUS FROM THE 2015/16 FINANCIAL YEAR The matter for consideration by the Council is to consider how the general rate operating surplus form the 2014/15 financial year of $1.24 million should be allocated.
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Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 1 SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT ITEM A
SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT - MINOR CHANGES TO DRAFT ANNUAL REPORT 2014/15 PREPARED BY: Mitchell Dyer (Policy Development Lead) TEAM: Strategy Group APPROVED BY: Liam Hodgetts (Group Manager Strategy) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 20 October 2015 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 6754713
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is minor changes to the draft Annual Report 2014/15 following endorsement by the Audit and Risk Subcommittee on 19 October 2015. It is recommended that the minor changes to the draft Annual Report be endorsed and adopted with the Annual Report 2014/15. It is also recommended that the Council authorises the Mayor and Chief Executive to make any other minor editorial amendments to the Annual Report 2014/15 document deemed necessary before publication.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report the Council:
a) Adopts the minor changes with the Annual Report 2014/15.
b) Authorises the Mayor and Chief Executive to make any minor editorial amendments to the Annual Report 2014/15 document deemed necessary before publication.
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is some importance. Options This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable option for addressing the matter:
1. Approve and adopt the minor changes to the Annual Report and authorises the Mayor and Chief Executive to make any minor editorial amendments to the Annual Report 2014/15 deemed necessary before publication. Affected persons The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are the general public. Recommendation This report recommends option 1 for addressing the matter. Long-Term Plan / The adoption of the Annual Report itself is just a reporting matter and Annual Plan has no impact on the Annual and Long Term Plan. Implications
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 2 ITEM A SUPPLEMENTARY REPORT
COMPLIANCE Significant There are no inconsistencies with current policies and plans. Policy and Plan Inconsistencies
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Audit and Risk Subcommittee endorsed the draft Annual Report 2014/15 on 19 October. Subsequent to this a number of minor inconsequential changes have been identified to ensure the accuracy of the Annual Report 2014/15. The report also recommends that the Council authorises the Mayor and Chief Executive to make any other minor editorial amendments to the Annual Report 2014/15 deemed necessary before publication
BACKGROUND After the Audit and Risk Subcommittee on 19 October, a number of minor inconsequential changes were identified to improve the accuracy of the Annual Report 2014/15. It is therefore recommended that the minor changes be adopted with the Annual Report 2014/15.
This supplementary report also recommends that the Council authorises the Mayor and Chief Executive to make any other minor editorial amendments to the Annual Report 2014/15 document deemed necessary before publication.
SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT The Annual Report is an audited record of the Council’s performance over the previous year and is therefore a historical and administrative document. The minor changes are considered to improve the accuracy of the annual report. This matter has therefore been assessed as being of some importance in terms of the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.
OPTIONS
Option 1 Approve and adopt the minor changes to the Annual Report and authorise the Mayor and Chief Executive to make any other minor editorial amendments to the Annual Report 2014/15 deemed necessary before publication.
Recommended Option This report recommends option 1 for addressing the matter.
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DRAFT ANNUAL REPORT FOR THE YEAR ENDED 30 JUNE 2015 (2014/15) PREPARED BY: Philip Armstrong (Manager Business Services) TEAM: Financial Services APPROVED BY: Alan Bird (Manager Business Services) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 9 October 2015 FILE REFERENCE: DM 6739260
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is to note and endorse the draft Annual Report 2014/15.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report, the report be noted and the Annual Report be adopted.
AUDIT AND RISK SUBCOMMITTEE RECOMMENDATION Endorsed the officer’s recommendation.
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is of some importance. This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Note and endorse the report for adoption by the full Council on 28 Options October 2015.
2. Propose amendments to the report before adoption by the Council on 28 October 2015.
The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are the Affected persons general public. Recommendation This report recommends option 1 for addressing the matter. Long-Term Plan / The adoption of the Annual Report itself is just a reporting matter and Annual Plan has no impact on the Annual and Long Term Plan. Implications
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COMPLIANCE Significant Policy and Plan There are no inconsistencies with current policies and plans. Inconsistencies
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY In terms of the Local Government Act 2002, the Council is required to prepare, have audited and adopt an Annual Report each year.
BACKGROUND The purpose of the Annual Report is to report against measures and outcomes agreed to with the adoption in June 2014 of the 2014/15 Annual Plan.
Auditing of the Annual Report by Audit New Zealand is substantially complete and the Audit Report on the Annual Report will be presented to the Council meeting to be held on 28 October. Audit New Zealand will be present at the Audit and Risk Subcommittee meeting on 19 October and have indicated they will give verbal clearance at that meeting and are indicating they will be presenting an unmodified (clean) audit opinion.
The Annual Report demonstrates another busy year for the Council with some notable achievements including the substantial completion of the Len Lye Centre which opened in early July, commissioning of the Waitara to New Plymouth sewer and pump station and numerous events including hosting the FIFA under 20 World Cup.
Financially the Council had a strong year with the over performance of the PIF resulting in a significant accounting surplus.
Operationally the Council also performed well with a strong focus on cost control throughout the year especially with regard to personnel costs where rigorous management of vacant positions resulted in savings of approximately $600k. There was also considerable savings in interest costs due to lower than budgeted interest rates and lower borrowing due to the timing of capital expenditure.
The accounts prepared for the Annual Report are prepared using generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and include a number of valuations relating to investments, assets, interest rate swaps etc which impact our accounting result. After adjusting for these non cash items and isolating the targeted rate performance and accounting for carry forward budgets, the Council had a net general rate operating surplus over budget of $1.24 million.
As per the Treasury Management policy, the Council has the option to use the surplus to further decrease the PIF release, repay debt or apply against rates over the next three years.
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A further report will be brought to the Council with recommendations on how to apply the surplus.
At the time of preparing this report, the audit is substantially complete but is still in progress. If there are any changes required by audit this will be noted at the Audit and Risk Subcommittee meeting and formal advice to the Council before adoption on the 28 October.
SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT The Annual Report is an audited record of the Council’s performance over the previous year and is therefore a historical and administrative document. This matter has therefore been assessed as being of some importance in terms of the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy.
OPTIONS Recommendation
Option 1 Note and endorse the report for adoption by the full Council on 28 October.
Option 2 Propose amendments to the report before adoption by the Council on 28 October.
Risk analysis Amendments to the report will require further audit. Substantial amendments could result in the Council not being able to meet its statutory timeframe for adoption of the Annual Report due to extended audit requirements.
Recommended Option This report recommends option 1
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APPENDICES
Draft Annual Report (attached as a separate document).
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 1 ITEM B
TONGAPORUTU RECREATION RESERVE LEASE PROPOSAL PREPARED BY: Murray Greig (Property Consultant) TEAM Property APPROVED BY: Peter Handcock (Property Manager) WARD/COMMUNITY: Clifton DATE: 17 September 2015 FILE REFERENCE: ID 107, ID 110 DM 6709539
MATTER This report summarises the 95 objections/submissions received following public notification of the proposal to grant new 20 year term leases under the Reserves Act 1977, over the 26 bach sites that occupy 29% (0.7253 hectares) of the 2.5130 hectare coastal portion of the Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve with an average bach site area of 279m2 and discerns that:
• 85 submitters (90%) support the grant of new leases for 20 or 30 year term or for an unstated term, or retention of baches and that of the remaining 10 (10%) submitters/objectors where; • Three submitters oppose the grant of new leases and one submitter seeks the removal of the baches. No submission received seeks revocation of reserve status. • Three submissions are neutral and four are incomplete.
Makes no recommendation, but sets out the matters and the relevant statutory tests that the Council must address to give full consideration to all written, and to the hearing of, oral objection/submissions before reaching a decision.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report: a) Notes that this report summarises the 95 written objections/submission received to the proposed grant of new leases for the 26 baches situated on the Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve.
b) Notes that the report sets out fully the possible options in Appendix 4 but makes no recommendation to allow the Council to fully consider and deliberate on all written and oral objections and submissions before making a final decision. The possible options are:
Option 1: Grant twenty year ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases.
Option 2: Grant twenty year ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases plus an additional clause relating to consultation with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
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Option 3: Grant ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases for a different term (ten years or thirty years).
Option 4: Decline to grant ground leases and engage with the community on the future of the land occupied by the baches, including possible removal of the baches.
COMPLIANCE This matter is significant. Significance
This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Grant twenty year ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases.
2. Grant twenty year ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases with an additional clause relating to Options consultation with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
3. Grant ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases for a different term (ten years or thirty years).
4. Decline to grant ground leases and engage and consult with the community on the future of the land occupied by the baches, including possible removal of the baches.
The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter and have been consulted are the bach holder lessees, Ngati Tama Iwi, Taranaki Affected persons Regional Council, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Department of Conservation, Maritime New Zealand, Nga Hapu o Poutama, Ngati Maniapoto and the general public. This report does not make a recommendation. The Council should Recommendation make a decision following deliberations and full consideration of all written and oral submissions. Total Annual Rental from the leases is currently $35,150. If new leases are approved for a twenty year term the annual rental will be Long-Term Plan / $53,370 and some accumulated $1,067,400 rental over the twenty Annual Plan year term (without taking into account rates or any five yearly rental Implications review). Figures for other possible terms (ten years or thirty years) are further outlined in this report.
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COMPLIANCE There are no significant inconsistencies with any current policies or plans. The recently approved Tongaporutu Reserve Management Plan Significant 2015 does not address the continued occupation of the baches on Policy and Plan Tongaporutu Reserve because the grant of new leases is not a Inconsistencies recreational use of the land and is subject to a separate statutory process under section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The ground leases for 26 bach sites located on part of the Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve expired on 31 March 2015 and the Council resolved on 30 June 2015 to instruct the Chief Executive to undertake public notice and consultation on the proposal to grant new 20 year leases and report back on the outcome.
This report now summarises the 95 written objections/submissions received following public notification. The Council should receive any further oral submissions from parties who made a submission or objection and have indicated that they want to be heard, and then make a decision on whether or not to approve the grant of new leases, and on what terms. The options identified in this report reflect the options that were identified or requested in written submissions and objections in relation to the proposal to grant the leases.
Since the expiration of the former leases, the lessees have remained in occupation of the land, pending the Council's decision on whether or not to grant new leases, on the basis that they are "holding over" on a monthly tenancy, determinable by one month's notice in writing.
BACKGROUND 1. Expired Leases Ground leases were granted over the 26 bach sites for ten year terms, commencing on 1 April 2005. Rental was based on independently assessed market rentals for each site, with provision for 3 yearly rent reviews. The leases granted in 2005 were granted in renewal of original 30 year ground leases that had been granted in 1975 by the Crown.
The Council's decision to grant new ground leases in 2005 was subject to a judicial review challenge (Gibbs v New Plymouth District Council [2006] NZRMA 517). The High Court dismissed the claim on all grounds, which enabled the Council to finalise the grant of the 2005 leases. As the 2005 leases have recently expired the Council must decide whether or not to grant new leases.
The terms and conditions of the recently expired leases were set by a Hearings Commission and the rentals were determined by independent valuation.
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2. Council resolution of 30 June 2015 on the proposal to grant new leases The Council resolved on 30 June 2015 (amongst other things):
c) …that it must carry out public notification and consultation, in order to be able to determine, as required by section 73(3) of the Reserves Act:
i. whether the land on which the baches is located is likely to be used for the purposes of a recreation reserve;
ii whether it is inadvisable or inexpedient to revoke the reserve status of the land;
iii whether or not the Council should grant the leases; and
iv if so, on what terms:
d) The Council instructs the Chief Executive to give public notice complying with section 119 of the Reserves Act 1977 of the proposed grant of ground leases under section 73(3) of the Reserves Act to the owners of baches located at Tongaporutu Reserve…on the following proposed general terms:
i. Term: 20 years (terminable by the Council on six months notice if the Council is of the opinion that the land leased is not being used or is not being sufficiently used for the purposes specified in the lease, or if the Council considers that the land is required for the purposes of public recreation);
ii. Commencement Date: 1 April 2015;
iii. Rent: independently assessed by registered valuer appointed by the Council;
iv. Rent Reviews: every three years from the Commencement Date;
v Use: holiday home accommodation;
vi Other terms: maximum occupation of eight months per year;
vii. Otherwise on the same terms that applied to the former lease, with any necessary updates to take account of subsequent changes to the law and standard leasing terms, provided all terms are consistent with the obligations of the Reserves Act 1977.
e) The Council instructs the Chief Executive to carry out the consultation recommended in section 2 under the 'Discussion of the Recommended Option' part of the Report to complement the public notice requirements of the Reserves Act.
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f) The Council instructs the Chief Executive to report back to the Council with all submissions and objections received in accordance with the requirements of section 120 of the Reserves Act and the consultation process, and to arrange for all objectors and submitters to be given an opportunity to present their views to the Council.
g) The Council notes that, upon the completion of the consultation process, the Council will make a final decision on the matters set out in c above, and decide whether or not to grant the proposed leases of the bach sites.
3. Legal framework under the Reserves Act 1977 for the grant of new leases Any grant of a lease of recreation reserve must be in accordance with the requirements of the Reserves Act.
Given that the use of privately owned baches, primarily for residential "holiday home" purposes is a non recreational use under the Reserves Act, the only leasing power available to the Council in relation to the baches is the power contained in section 73(3) of the Reserves Act. Section 73(3) is a code that provides an exception to the recreation related purposes for which recreation reserves can otherwise be used. It provides:
Where any recreation reserve or any part of such a reserve is not being used for the purposes of a recreation reserve and in the opinion of the Minister is not likely to be used for that purpose, but it is inadvisable or inexpedient to revoke the reservation, leases of the whole or any part thereof may be granted by the administering body with the prior consent of the Minister in cases where the reserve is vested in such a body, or by the Minister in any other case.
Under section 73(3A) of the Reserves Act, any lease granted under section 73(3) must be subject to the provisions set out in Schedule 1 of that Act. The recently expired leases complied with Schedule 1, and (subject to the comments in this report and the Council's deliberations and decision) it is proposed that if new leases are granted, that they are largely based on the same terms as the expired leases.
It is important for the Council to recognise that a lease granted under section 73(3) is not being granted for the recreation purposes for which the land is classified, and provision for the grant of such a lease is not a matter which is contemplated by the Reserves Act for inclusion in the Management Plan for the reserve. Rather, there is a separate process, which is currently being followed.
The key elements of section 73(3) that the Council must be aware of when deciding whether or not to grant leases of the baches are:
a) that the reserve, or any part of the reserve is not being used for the purposes of a recreation reserve;
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b) that in the opinion of the Minister (the Council in this case acting under delegated authority), it is not likely to be used for that purpose; and
c) that it is inadvisable or inexpedient to revoke the reservation.
If the statutory tests above are met, then following full consideration of all objections and submissions received (as required by section 73(4)), the Council has a discretion whether or not to grant the leases, and if so, for what term, and on what conditions.
It is important that the Council considers each of the statutory tests carefully in reaching its decision, and they are specifically addressed below.
4. Public notice requirements Under section 73(4) of the Reserves Act before granting a lease under section 73(3), mandatory public notice of the proposed lease is required in accordance with section 119 of the Reserves Act, and the Council must give full consideration to all objections and submissions in accordance with section 120. Public notice has been given in compliance with the requirements of section 119, and the objections/submissions received are attached as Appendix One, with a summary of all objections/submissions and officers responses to issues raised attached as Appendix Two.
All persons who made written objections/submissions have been given the opportunity to speak to the Council in support of their objection/submission, as required by the Reserves Act. Oral submissions will be heard by the Council.
Following the hearing of submissions, the Council will fully consider this report, written and oral submissions, deliberate and reach a decision on whether or not to grant the leases, and if so, for what term, and on what conditions.
5. Local Government Act 2002 decision-making obligations and proposed consultation process The Council's decision under section 73(3) of the Reserves Act is also subject to the standard decision making requirements in Part 6 of the LGA02.
Section 78 requires the Council to consider the views and preferences of interested and affected persons. Under section 79, there is some discretion for the Council to determine how it will comply with section 78 (and section 77), and generally compliance should be in proportion to the significance of the matter.
It is considered that compliance with the statutory public notice processes prescribed in sections 119 and 120 of the Reserves Act, and carried out by the Council, complies with the principles of consultation in section 82 of LGA 02, the requirements of the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy and the Council's obligation in section 78 to consider views and preferences of interested and affected persons.
Written consultation has been undertaken with all bach holders, Taranaki Regional Council, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Department of Conservation,
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Tongaporutu Tennis Club, Maui Developments Limited, local Tongaporutu residents, Maritime New Zealand, Nga hapu o Poutama, Ngati Maniapoto and Ngati Tama. The details of the process are outlined later in this report.
As part of the decision making, the Council must take into account the relationship of Maori and their culture and traditions with ancestral land, water, sites, waahi tapu, valued flora and fauna, and other Taonga (section 77 of the LGA02).
While Ngati Tama is identified as the recognised iwi in respect of this land in the Ngati Tama Claims Settlement Act 2003, and in the Tongaporutu Reserves Management Plan, as outlined above, Nga Hapu o Poutama and Ngati Maniapoto were consulted. Nga Hapu o Poutama was the only party to make a submission, which is attached as part of Appendix One.
The Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve is of significance to Ngati Tama and the Management Plan specifically records:
• That Ngati Tama has a right of first refusal over Tongaporutu Reserve under the Ngati Tama Claims Settlement Act 2003 if it ceases to be held as reserve;
• That the Council accepts that Ngati Tama has a historical, cultural and spiritual connection with the whenua at Tongaporutu Reserve; and
• Under its Treaty settlement, Ngati Tama has a statutory acknowledgement over the Tongaporutu River, recognising the iwi's cultural, spiritual and historical association with the River.
Under the Ngati Tama Claims Settlement Act 2003, the Crown is not precluded from granting any other statutory acknowledgement or entering into a deed of recognition with persons other than Ngati Tama or the governance entity with respect to the same area. However, at present, no other parties have obtained any statutory acknowledgement.
Ngati Tama did not respond to the Council's letter/consultation, and has not made a submission. In addition, to consultation with Ngati Tama, consultation has been undertaken with Ngati Maniapoto and Nga Hapu o Poutama, who both claim connections to Tongaporutu Reserve. As noted earlier, Nga Hapu o Poutama has made a submission, which will be fully considered by the Council in the course of its deliberations, together with any oral submission made in support.
6. Tongaporutu Reserve Management Plan The Council approved the Management Plan for Tongaporutu Reserve in February 2015. While the Management Plan identifies the existence of the baches, it does not specifically authorise them, or make any comment on the grant of leases, because the power in section 73(3) to grant a lease is a statutory exception. A lease granted under section 73(3) is not being granted for a recreation reserve purpose for which the land is classified, and provision for its grant is not a matter which is contemplated by the
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Reserves Act for inclusion in a Management Plan. Rather there is a separate public notification process for section 73(3) leases.
The Management Plan identifies the following matters of relevance to the baches and the proposed leases:
• The population in general around Tongaporutu Reserve has been relatively static from 2001 to 2013, with a slight decrease from 198 in the 2001 census to 180 in 2013. These figures represent permanent residents and do not take into account seasonal populations from baches or reserve visitors. • The Council carried out a monitoring survey during the peak visitation period of summer (pre-Christmas, pre-New Year and post-New Year) across three days in 2003/4 and in 2012/13. The results show 237 people visited the reserve in the 2002/3 survey and 297 visited in the 2012/13 survey. The survey conducted in 2012/13 contained a day were an event was staged at the reserve which distorted the results and limits the opportunity to make reliable comparisons from the data. • Tongaporutu Reserve is used for coastal access, passive recreation, parking, toilet stops and aquatic activities. • The bach owners are responsible for their own waste disposal which is monitored as a function of the Taranaki Regional Council. • Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga has registered the baches in their heritage list as an "historic area", but that registration does not create any direct regulatory consequences or create any specific rights or control over property. • That part of Tongaporutu Reserve on which the baches are located is zoned rural and is included within the coastal policy area. • Current bach owners are required to meet plan objectives through the Tongaporutu Concept Plan allowing reasonable practicable access to the coast. • The Management Plan provides and contemplates retention of the land for recreation reserve purposes.
DISCUSSION ON MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED IN THE GRANT OF NEW LEASES
7. Satisfaction of statutory tests The reserve or any part of the reserve is not being used for the purposes of a recreation reserve
This is a question of fact.
The baches are located on land that is classified as recreation reserve under the Reserves Act 1977, but they do not constitute a recreational use for the purposes of that Act. In particular, the baches are primarily used for private residential purposes (holiday homes) and do not facilitate or permit recreational use of, or sporting activities on, the land on which they are located, or enable that part of the
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Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve to be used for the recreation purposes provided for in section 17 of the Reserves Act.
In the opinion of the Minister/Council it is not likely to be used for the purpose of a recreation reserve
This is a subjective test, and its consideration involves assessment of a range of information, including current usage patterns of the rest of Tongaporutu Reserve and any other information available that may assist in determining the likely use of the land.
When considering whether a reserve is not likely to be used for recreation, the Council is entitled to take into account the ambit of activities on the reserve that are consistent with its classification, and form a view as to whether or not it is likely to be used.
In reaching its decision, the Council can gain useful guidance from the High Court in the Gibbs decision, where the Judge states:
[91] The assessment of whether it is likely that the relevant land will be used for recreational purposes is an opinion. It is an opinion in the nature of a prediction or forecast rather than a proved fact….
[92] In my view it was open to the Council to form an opinion that the land on which the baches stand was unlikely to be used as a reserve in the short term. That opinion was open because, if Mr Laurenson's argument were taken to its logical extreme, a situation could arise in which any potential use (no matter how small) of the land for reserve purposes would prevent the Council from leasing relevant land. In my view, the statute does not suggest that Parliament intended that result. The Council was entitled to bring a sense of proportion to its decision making.
[95] The decision to lease the land to bach holders was open to the Council. It was made on the basis of an evaluation of expected motor and pedestrian traffic in the area. It was made on the basis that, if circumstances were to change, prompt termination of the leases could be achieved to revert the land to public use. The decision allowed for a public walkway to be created along the riverbank area. The decision was one that confirmed the existing private use of baches situated on reserve land, subject to the right to terminate the leases at short notice.
The extent to which the reserve is likely to be used as recreation reserve must be considered in the context of the term of the proposed leases, and any other relevant factors. In the present situation, a twenty year term, while providing certainty and a secure tenure for the lessees and potentially would reduce the Council's ability to react to changing demographics and reserve use patterns that might indicate that the land is likely to be used for reserve purposes during the term. However, this issue is
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countered by the inclusion of a clause in the lease that complies with the requirements of Schedule 1 of the Reserves Act, that will enable the Council to terminate at any time during the term of the leases if the land is not being used or sufficiently used for the purposes specified in the lease, or if the Council considers that the land is required for recreation purposes.
Notes that:
• The coastal area of the reserve (excludes the inland area of the reserve in the township) comprises an area of 2.5130 hectares. • The 26 baches occupy 29% of the coastal area of the reserve (0.7252 hectares) noting that the average bach site only occupies an area of 279m2 taking into account that two sites occupy 551m2 and 508m2. • The remaining area of 71% of the reserve is available for open space recreation.
In terms of future demand, it is not possible to accurately predict future public demand for use of Tongaporutu Reserve. This can only be assessed in some way by forming an opinion among other things on actual limited random sample monitoring data collected during the peak summer season and compared over successive years and public feedback, noting it is not practicable or cost effective to monitor on a large scale. In addition to consider such factors as:
• Historic population trends for Tongaporutu from 2001 to the 2013 census; • Limited sample monitoring over seasonal summer use of Tongaporutu Reserve; • The rural location of Tongaporutu Reserve; • A small increase in reserve use principally by self-contained vehicles with Tongaporutu Reserve's convenient location to State Highway 3; • Feedback from the public from time to time; • Casual observation; • Feedback on Management Plan submissions; • Submission and objection to the issue of new leases.
Past random monitoring has been based on vehicle and people counts. The 2012/2013 targeted sample monitoring was conducted over 18 and 28 December 2012 and 12 January and 8 February. Compared to the 2003/4 monitoring there was a 62% reduction in reserve use for the 18 December date. The data from the two monitoring programmes for the day between Christmas and New Year produced counts of 171 people in 2012 and 99 in 2003 representing a 42% increase over an eight hour period. However it will be noted that there was an organised event on the reserve during the day in 2012 where a larger number of people were on the reserve.
The days monitored over New Year, shows an increase in the overall use of the reserve with 94 people counted in 2013 and 66 in 2004 representing a 29% increase in use.
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The total counts of people that used the reserve over monitoring period were 237 people over 2003/2004 and 292 people over the 2012/2013 programme equating to a 20% increase. No survey was conducted over the 2014/15 summer season due to lack of financial resources.
Overall based on the above comparative sample monitoring there is no indication of any significant degree of increased public demand for use of Tongaporutu Reserve, noting that use demand is highest during the summer months, and lower during the winter period.
While future use demand for the reserve cannot be predicted, as already noted, if a substantial increase in demand does in the future indicates that if additional land is required for public use at Tongaporutu Reserve, then during the lease term, a review of continued occupation of the bach sites could be initiated by the Council, and under the terms of the proposed leases, they could be terminated if necessary. As indicated the leases occupy less than a third of the reserve.
Annual monitoring is provided for in the Tongaporutu Reserve Management Plan and will continue over the summer period as a means of estimating growth or reduced use of Tongaporutu Reserve, in addition to any statistical data available on population trends.
It is inadvisable or inexpedient to revoke the reservation This test indicates that the leasing power under section 73(3) is available in situations where there is a prospect that the reserve could be used at some stage in the future for its classified purpose and for this reason revocation is not warranted.
There is a general public expectation that, unless good reason exists, reserve land should be retained in public ownership for future generations. Despite the existence of the baches, (and possibly, at least in part, because of them), Tongaporutu Reserve, including the bach sites, is recognised as an important reserve in the New Plymouth District. None of the submissions recommended or requested that reserve status of the bach sites should be revoked, or provided any reasons why it should be. This lack of public request to revoke the reserve status, and the need to preserve public ownership of reserve land for future generations suggests that it is both inadvisable and inexpedient to do so.
Granting of a lease If the statutory tests are met, the Council has a discretion whether or not to grant a lease, and if so, for what term, and on what conditions.
8. Financial considerations
Obligation to be cost-effective The Council has an obligation under section 10 of the Local Government Act 2002 to meet the needs of its communities in a manner that is "most cost-effective for
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households and businesses." While there are administrative costs associated with leasing, the rental income mitigates costs.
The current annual rental stream is $35,000 and, based on valuation advice, the rental stream for a 20 year lease (not taking account annual rental review increases) would be $53,000 per annum (including GST).
A longer term lease period is more cost effective in terms of rental income and mitigates the need to revisit the expiry of shorter term leases requiring an entirely new start process and statutory decision on the subsequent grant or otherwise of new leases. Rental term considerations The new rentals that would apply for a twenty year term based on independent valuation advice, have also for comparison purposes been extrapolated for ten and thirty year terms as set out in the table below (also including accumulated rates which would be payable by lessees). The table more particularly illustrates the indicative rating revenue (based on current rates) and the accumulated fiscal benefits in income/rates that would be derived over a given lease term.
INDICATIVE TABLE ON FISCAL BENEFIT OF NEW LEASES OVER TERM OF TENURE (All figures are GST inclusive, and based on current year unadjusted rating sums, and excludes 3 yearly rental reviews) Projected Annual Unadjusted Total Accumulated Accumulated Total Rental Rental Current Combined Annual Rentals Annual Rates Accumulated Term Revenue Total Annual over lease term over lease Rental and Annual Rental (excludes term based Rates over Rates and Rates rental review) on current lease term rates Current $35,150 $23,341 $58,491 $351,500 $233,410 $584,910 expired (Average per (Average per lease term lease lease 31/3/15 $1351.92) $897.73) New 10 $52,220 $23,341 $75,561 $522,200 $233,410 $755,610 year (Average per leases lease $2008.46) Proposed $53,370 $23,341 $76,711 $1,067,400 $466,820 $1,534.220 new 20 (Average year per lease leases $2052.69) New 30 $54,520 $23,341 $77,861 $1,635,600 $700,230 $2,335,830 year (Average per leases lease $2096.92)
While the average new rental is low in comparison to other portfolios of residential ground leases in North Taranaki, it reflects that the leases are non-renewable, are subject to the restrictions of eight months occupation, site coverage restrictions and the imposition of the prompt termination provisions if the reserve is ever required to be used for recreation purposes.
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If approved, the new leases will be subject to three yearly rent reviews to reflect any movement in the market, with rental to not be less than the initial rental fixed at the commencement date. It is noted that the expired ten year term was not adjusted at the last rent review due to a lack of movement in the market. Since that time, there has been some improvement in the market (as reflected in the figures above).
Summary of proposed terms for leases Public notification and consultation with interested and affected persons was undertaken based on the following proposed lease terms:
i) Term: 20 years (terminable by the Council on six months notice if the Council is of the opinion that the land leased is not being used or is not being sufficiently used for the purposes specified in the lease, or if the Council considers that the land is required for the purposes of public recreation);
ii) Commencement Date: 1 April 2015;
iii) Rent: independently assessed by registered valuer appointed by the Council;
iv) Rent Reviews: every three years from the Commencement Date;
v) Use: holiday home accommodation;
vi) Other terms: maximum occupation of eight months per year;
vii) Otherwise on the same terms that applied to the former lease, with any necessary updates to take account of subsequent changes to the law and standard leasing terms, provided all terms are consistent with the obligations of the Reserves Act 1977.
Notes that of the 85 (90%) submitters in support of leases: • That no submitters seek a 10 year term (current expired term of last grant). • That 28 submitters (29%) favour a 20 year lease term. • That seven submitters (8%) favour a 30 year lease term. • That 33 submitters (35%) support new leases but do not state a term preference. • That 17 submitters (18%) support retention of baches so by default support the grant of new leases.
9. Council exercise of delegated Ministerial powers Section 73(3) of the Reserves Act provides for separate decisions to be made by the Minister of Conservation and the Council with relation to a decision whether or not to grant a lease. In particular, and as recognised by the High Court in the Gibbs decision, the Minister is responsible for the decision whether to make recreation reserve land available for leasing, while the Council is responsible for formal execution (paragraph 21 of decision).
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However, as a result of a delegation of the Minister's powers to territorial authorities, the different functions have been merged and the Council is responsible for all elements of the decision making process.
Since the Council last considered whether or not to grant leases of bach sites, the Ministerial delegations have been revised. However, for the purposes of section 73(3), the only change has been the removal of a former limitation which stated that the delegation could only be exercised if the activity was provided for or contemplated in an approved management plan, or the activity is an existing use of the same character, intensity and scale.
In exercising the Ministerial delegation, the Council must take into account its obligations to consider the wider national interests that the Minister is responsible for, such as the desirability of retaining reserve land in public ownership for the use and enjoyment of all New Zealanders. In making its decision the Council cannot focus solely on the interests of residents and ratepayers who live in the district and in the vicinity of the reserve.
In terms of understanding and recognising the wider national interest, and the preservation and retention of reserve land, the Council has specifically consulted with a number of organisations which have a national profile and interest.
In particular:
• Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, (which made a submission); • Department of Conservation (which made a submission); • Maritime New Zealand (which did not make a submission); • NZ Transport Agency (which did not make a submission); • Forest and Bird Society (which did not make a submission); • Fish and Game Council NZ (Taranaki Region) (which did not make a submission).
Heritage New Zealand recognised the wider public interest in retaining the baches as a historic area. While the Department of Conservation advised that it had a neutral view on the proposal, it is recognised that there is a general public expectation that, unless good reason exists, reserve land should be retained in public ownership for future generations. This would tend to support a conclusion that it is both inadvisable and inexpedient to revoke reserve status, as that would likely result in the land being transferred to private ownership, either by transfer to Ngati Tama, or (if it elects not to exercise its right of first refusal) to a third party.
10. Consultation and consideration of views and preferences Public notification under the Reserves Act was undertaken in the Taranaki Daily News on Saturday 4 July 2015, and letters of consultation dated 1 July 2015 were sent to:
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• Ngati Tama. • The 26 bach lessees. • Identified stakeholders, including Taranaki Regional Council, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Department of Conservation, Maritime NZ, Nga Hapu o Poutama, Ngati Maniapoto, Ngati Tama, NZ Transport Agency, Forest and Bird Society, Tongaporutu Tennis Club, Maui Development Limited, Fish and Game Council NZ (Taranaki Region). • Land owners on Clifton and Pilot Road and others. • Sign posting of public notice in three locations at Tongaporutu Reserve and Tongaporutu public hall.
Summary of objections and submissions received The period for objections and submissions closed on 5 August 2015 and 95 written responses were received. A copy of all written submissions is attached as Appendix One and a table summarising the submissions and officer responses to issues raised is attached as Appendix Two.
It is noted that this report has been written based on written submissions only, and the parties who made submissions will have an opportunity to speak to their submissions as part of the hearing process if they wish. When deliberating and reaching a decision, the Council will need to fully consider all submissions (written and oral).
Breakdown of Objections/Submissions Responses Object to Object to Support Support Support Support Support Neutral Submission Total new leases grant of 10 year 20 year 30 year new baches on new incomplete and seek new leases lease lease lease lease but remaining on leases or (name detail removal of term term term no term reserve not only) baches stated stated 1 2 0 28 7 33 17 3 4 95 1% 2% 0% 29% 8% 35% 18% 3% 4% 100%
Summary of Responses Response Number of % submitters Neutral on the issues of new leases or not stated in submission 3 3 Submission incomplete content (name and address only) 4 4 Submitters seeking revocation of reserve status 0 0 Objectors opposed to new leases and or removal of baches 3 3 Submitters who support new 10 year lease term 0 0 Submitters who seek new leases but no term stated 33 35 Submitters who seek new lease 20 and 30 year lease term 35 37 Submitters who support retention of baches (thus leasing) 17 18 Submitters who seek new 20 and 30 year leases, new leases but no term stated and those 85 90 supporting retention of baches (and thus leasing)
Of the 95 responses (mainly lessees), it will be noted that 85 (90%) submitters support new leases, with three objectors (3%) not supporting the grant of leases including one objector seeking removal of baches, three neutral submitters and four incomplete submissions (name and address only).
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Of the 85 in support of new leases, 28 (29%) of submitters support a 20 year term, seven submitters (7%) a 30 year term, 0 submitters supporting a 10 year term, 33 (35%) submitters support new leases but do not state a term preference, and 17 submitters(18%) support retention of baches and continued leasing by default.
The number of submitters who supported new leases but without stating a term combined with those that support the baches remaining total 50 (53%), a significant number. While it cannot be know what lease term was preferred by those submitters, the publicly notified proposal was for a 20 year term. Therefore by conjecture it could be viewed that these submitters were supporting a 20 year term.
Submitters supported a longer term because it will provide greater security and would encourage owners to maintain their baches and the reserve generally. A constant theme was that baches were iconic, kiwiana with historic values that added to the character of Tongaporutu reserve rather than distracting from its use.
No submissions sought to have the reservation uplifted from the reserve, so supporting the retention of whole of the reserve which includes the area occupied by the baches.
Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga submission The iconic nature of the baches was also recognised by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, which pointed out in its submission that the baches are included in the New Zealand Heritage List as an "historic area". The Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga submission advocates for the conservation and protection of the bach sites.
In addition, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga submitted that the leases should provide for the tenant to obtain Council approval for any significant changes to the baches or bach sites, with the Council to consult with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga when deciding whether or not to approve changes that may affect the heritage values of the historic area.
The recently expired leases provided that building work (new buildings, alterations and extensions) and exterior painting required the prior written approval of the Council, which would not be unreasonably withheld, provided certain criteria were met, including that it was not inconsistent with the Management Plan, and that it would not materially change the historical integrity of the bach settlement on Tongaporutu Reserve.
The approved Management Plan provides for consultation with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga and officers recommend that if the Council decides to grant the leases, a provision be incorporated into them to reflect Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga's suggestion and that it is consulted regarding any significant changes to the baches that may impact upon the heritage values.
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Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga has not specifically commented on whether or not it supports the grant of new leases, or an appropriate term. Given that the baches are an integral part of the heritage values of the historic area, it is assumed that Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga supports the grant of the leases (as formal tenure will be important to secure the retention of the baches). It will note that many submitters recognise the historical nature of the baches. Sewage and waste water concerns While not directly related to the proposal to grant new ground leases, other than with respect to the proposed lease terms, two of the written objections raised the matter of the standard of sewage and wastewater disposal and apparent pollution issues in respect of the baches and toilets on the reserve. One objector stated that TRC only undertakes a "sniff test" once every three years.
Following receipt of the submissions, TRC has been contacted and advises that it last carried out water sample monitoring in 2014 to determine the effects from bach septic tanks. That testing did not detect any contamination. The TRC has indicated that the next sampling will be undertaken in the summer of 2016. The TRC advises that three baches are subject to resource consents for discharge of treated domestic effluent from septic tanks because of their proximity to a small unnamed tributary drain.
The bach owners are responsible for ensuring that their baches have adequate provision for waste water disposal as required by the TRC and the Health Act. The TRC monitors permits and discharge of sewage directly into the Tongaporutu River is prohibited. TRC has indicated that, to date, no concerns have arisen over waste water disposal from the baches. Discharge water from the Council owned toilet located on Tongaporutu Reserve is treated by an approved septic tank and drainage field.
The lease provisions from the former leases, which it is proposed will be carried over into new lease documents if the Council decides to grant new leases, requires the bach lessees to comply with all legislation, regulations, bylaws, District and Regional Plan rules and to install and maintain to the satisfaction of the TRC a waste domestic disposal system in compliance with the TRC's Regional Freshwater and Coastal Plan and not discharge directly into any adjacent watercourse.
The concerns raised by submitters on septic tanks and waste domestic water disposal was specifically taken up the TRC for the purpose of this report. The TRC has advised that monitoring of the Tongaporutu river has not found any effect from the baches septic tanks. The TRC indicate that three baches (20, 21 and 22) have resource consents to discharge treated domestic effluent from their septic tanks because they are close to a drain tributary. Further the TRC has advised that it is satisfied that all lessees are complying with the relevant rules of Regional Plans.
Despite receiving specific notification, the TRC has not submitted on the proposal for the issue of twenty year ground leases. The TRC submitted on the draft Management Plan, but only to indicate that the area adjacent to the reserve has been classified in its Regional Coastal Plan as an area of outstanding coastal value.
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Submissions seeking removal of baches from Tongaporutu Reserve One submitter seeks the removal of all of the baches from Tongaporutu Reserve so that it will solve the perceived septic/waste water pollution from baches and allow for use of that area of the reserve for self-contained campers, who may stay overnight on average for two nights.
The peak usage of the reserve (based on past monitoring) occurs over the summer vacation season, but is fairly static for the remainder of the year, with adequate available open public space. This issue has already been discussed above under the heading of Satisfaction of Statutory Tests.
Tangata Whenua status over Tongaporutu Reserve The submission from Russell Gibbs on behalf of Nga Hapu o Poutama claims tangata whenua and the exercise of manuwhenua and kaitakitanga over the Tongaporutu Reserve is held by the hapu.
The Crown Treaty settlement with Ngati Tama has included Tongaporutu Reserve in the "area of interest" of that iwi and further granted a right of first refusal to purchase the reserve if, at any stage in the future it is no longer required for recreation purposes and the reserve revocation is revoked.
Under the settlement legislation, Ngati Tama has a statutory acknowledgment over the Tongaporutu River to recognise their cultural, spiritual, historical and traditional association with the Tongaporutu River.
Under section 67 of the Ngati Tama Claims Settlement Act 2003, the Crown is not precluded from providing a statutory acknowledgement to or entering into a deed of recognition with persons other than Ngati Tama or its governance entity with respect to the same area.
Notwithstanding that the Council acknowledges the cultural and historical associations of Ngati Tama in respect of the Tongaporutu Reserve, in recognition of cross claims by Nga Hapu o Poutama and Ngati Maniapotu (which are not matters for Council determination), consultation has been undertaken with those hapu/iwi by the Council, seeking their views and preferences. More specifically the Council is not aware of any communication directly from the Crown advising Council that Poutama are an iwi authority or that the hapu exercise kaitiakitanga over the area. The Council is aware that Poutama are listed on the Te Kahui Mangai website, but that in itself does not specifically imply formal Crown recognition of that group as an iwi authority as stated on the website.
Ngati Maniapotu has not made a submission to the leasing proposal. Nor did it make a submission to the Management Plan process.
Nga Hapu o Poutama's view, that Tongaporutu Reserve is part of the Puketapu Pa is not substantiated or noted on the District Plan. However, the hapu indicates that the Council's proposal to grant leases is "offensive" and they seek the removal of the
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baches and use of the reserve (including the area occupied by the baches) for cultural and recreation purposes. They also state that if the Council insists on granting leases, they should first be offered to Nga Hapu o Poutama, rather than the bach holders.
11. Officer comments (based on written submissions only) The baches are an existing historical activity on Tongaporutu Reserve and the majority of submitters comprising 85 (90%) support the Council proposal to grant new year ground leases (although it is acknowledged that most submissions in support are from existing lessees or their supporters). Of the 85 submitters supporting new leases that is broken down into 28 (29%) stating supporting a 20 year term, seven submitters (8%) stating a 30 year term, 33 submitters (35%) supporting new lease but not stating a term and 17 submitters (18%) supporting the baches remaining thus by default continued leasing.
No submitters have sought 10 year lease term, three submitters were neutral and four submissions were incomplete (name and address only).
Two objections seek removal of the baches so that the area can be used for recreation, one submitter sought the removal of baches, with no submitters sought revocation of reserve status.
As indicated in this report, monitoring and other factors do not suggest that the land is likely to be used for recreation noting that less than a third of the reserve is occupied by the lease sites. Overall adequate space is reasonably available at all times during the year, accepting that there is always increased demand for space during isolated periods, such as summer holidays and special events.
To address as the fall back position, any future need for land for recreation purposes, the leasing proposal includes provision for the Council to terminate the leases on the giving of six months notice if, in the Council's opinion, the land is not being used, or is not being sufficiently used, for the permitted use under the lease, or if, in the public interest it could be better used for public recreation.
This was acknowledged by the Court in Gibbs v New Plymouth District Council as a relevant factor in 2005 when the former leases were granted.
If the Council were to consider removal of the baches as a possibility, then before any final decision could be made, it would be appropriate under the Local Government Act 2002 and the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy to first undertake consultation with the community on such a proposal.
If the Council does decide to grant the leases, the Council will continue its monitoring programme on use of the reserve over the peak summer holiday seasons, when demand is at its highest, to assess additional (or reduced) demand.
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At this time, there is a majority support in written submissions for the issue of new ground leases and protection of the historical integrity of the baches to remain as a "historic area" from Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT In accordance with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy, this matter has been assessed as significant on the following basis:
• The identified interested and affected persons are potentially broad and numerous, including bach lessees, Ngati Tama, Taranaki Regional Council, Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, Department of Conservation, persons who made submissions on the Management Plan, Ngati Hapu o Poutama and Ngati Maniapoto, plus the general public.
• The previous decision to grant ten year leases was subject to High Court litigation and controversy in the past.
• The bach sites are identified as a "historic area" by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, noting such listing does not create any direct regulatory consequences, specific rights or control over property.
• The historic, cultural and spiritual connection of Ngati Tama with the whenua at Tongaporutu Reserve, as recognised in the Tongaporutu Reserve Management Plan, noting that Ngati Maniapoto and Nga Hapu o Poutama also claim an interest in the area.
• The decision is unlikely to affect the ability of the Council to meet its statutory purposes, either now or as to future options.
• The current leases have expired, and the Council needs to make a decision about what option it should adopt to determine the future of the baches on the reserve.
OPTIONS Taking into account and giving full consideration to the 95 written submissions received as part of the public notification and consultation process, the following options have been identified as the range of options being sought by submitters. In assessing these options and reaching a decision, the Council will also need to have regard to the statutory tests discussed above and fully consider all written submissions, together with any oral submissions in support made by submitters at the Council meeting.
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OPTION 1: Grant twenty year ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases That the Council approves the grant of twenty year ground leases for the bach sites on the same general terms as the former leases, and as publicly notified in the Council's proposal.
Advantages of Option 1: • Received a high level of support from 28 submitters (29%). • The land can remain classified as reserve and still be used for recreation purposes in the future if it is required. • The Council can retain a rental stream based on the new leases over a twenty year term, and derive rates from the land. • The Council will remain the administering body of the reserve. • The heritage status of the bach sites as a "historic area" will not be compromised, as advocated for by Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. • A clause in the lease will provide for termination if the land is required for recreation purposes. • The lessees will not be dispossessed of occupation of the baches and will have certainty of tenure and the ability to maintain and improve their baches (in accordance with any restrictions applicable under the leases). • The interests of Ngati Tama will not be compromised as it will retain its right of first refusal in terms of the Ngati Tama Claims Settlement Act 2003. • The administrative burden of reviewing the leases on expiry will not be necessary until 31 March 2035. • The most cost effective for households and businesses because it will generate a rental income as a means of covering some of the cost of maintaining and developing the reserve, while reducing the administrative burden associated lease portfolio management.
Disadvantages of Option 1 • The land will not be available for public recreation use while the leases remain in force.
OPTION 2: Grant twenty year ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases with an additional clause relating to consultation with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga That the Council approves the grant of twenty year ground leases for the bach sites on the same general terms as the former leases, and as publicly notified in the Council's proposal, with the inclusion of an additional clause to acknowledge that the Council may consult with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga in relation to any proposal that may result in significant changes to a bach or bach site, including without limitation, when considering any request for approval to carry out any building work, exterior painting or
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other works that might impact upon the heritage values of the baches or the bach sites.
Advantages of Option 2 • The same as Option 1, with an additional advantage that the heritage values of the baches and bach site will be further enhanced if the leases provide an acknowledgement that the Council will engage in consultation with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. • Such a clause will be consistent with the Management Plan requirement for consultation with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga.
Disadvantages of Option 1 • The same as Option 1.
OPTION 3: Grant ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases for a different term (ten years or thirty years) That the Council approves the grant of ground leases for the bach sites for a different term on the same general terms as the former leases, and as publicly notified in the Council's proposal (with the inclusion of the additional clause relating to heritage values if the Council so decides). No submitter requested a 10 year term and seven submitters sought a 30 year term (8%).
Advantages of Option 3 • It would satisfy requests made in certain specific submissions, noting that 33 (35%) submitters support new leases but do not state a preference for a term, and 17 (18%) of submitters support the baches remaining on the reserve and thus by default supporting new leases.
Disadvantages of Option 3 • Ten year leases are not supported and thirty year leases have been granted in the past, and apart from individual submissions, indicating that they sought a longer term than 10 years, the 20 year term represents an appropriate compromise between the two extremes.
• Of the response from submitters that stated a preferred term, the majority supported the 20 year term proposed by the Council.
OPTION 4: Decline to grant ground leases and engage and consult with the community on the future of the land occupied by the baches, including possible removal of the baches That the Council declines to approve the grant of ground leases for the bach sites and instructs officers to engage and consult with the community in accordance with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy (and the Reserves Act to the extent required) to determine community views and preferences on the future of the land (including possible removal of the
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baches) and to report back to the Council with the outcome of such engagement and consultation.
While the Council has consulted on the proposed grant of a lease, there has been no specific consultation on a wider proposal for the future of the land and/or whether or not the baches should be removed.
The Council has an obligation under section 78 of the Local Government Act 2002 to consider the views and preferences of interested and affected persons in making its decision. While the Council has fully consulted on the proposal to grant leases, it has not consulted specifically on a wider proposal that may involve the removal of the baches from Tongaporutu Reserve.
Clearly the bach owners would be directly affected by any decision to remove the baches if that was an outcome of a further consultation process, and Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga would have a particular interest in the matter so that it would be appropriate to consult with them specifically. In addition, all of the submitters to the current proposal, Tongaporutu residents, iwi and the wider general public may have an interest in this issue and a form of wider public consultation would be necessary.
In the event that the Council elects Option 4, officers would provide further advice on a recommended consultation process. It would be necessary to ensure that any such process complied with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy and with the principles of consultation set out in section 82 of the Local Government Act 2002.
Advantages of Option 4 • It might ensure that the land is made available for public recreation use in the short term (depending on the outcome of engagement and consultation).
Disadvantages of Option 4 • The matter will not be finally determined resulting in further ongoing uncertainty regarding the future of the land and the baches. • Delay and additional cost related to reaching resolution of issues related to the baches.
Depending on the outcome of engagement and consultation:
• Potential loss of occupation by, and informal guardianship of, the Lessees. • Potential loss of rental and rating income to the Council. • Potential loss of historic area (bach sites).
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Recommended Option This report does not contain a recommendation. The Council should make a decision following deliberations and full consideration of all written and oral submissions.
APPENDICES Appendix 1: Objections/Submissions (attached a separate item ECM 6745207) Appendix 2: Table summarising objections/submissions and officer responses Appendix 3: Aerial Overlay of Bach Sites Appendix 4: Possible Resolution for each Option.
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APPENDIX 2 SUMMARY OF SUMISSIONS IN SUPPORT OR NUETRAL Submission Matter Officers Response and or recommendation Wishes to Number and be heard Submitter 1 Strongly supports leases for 20 year term Support new 20 year term leases Not stated
BM O’Neill Contests that the clause to terminate by the giving of 6 months The termination clause is the same as in the expired leases. However notice by the Council ( if in its opinion the reserve is required for if the Council were to make a decision to terminate the leases it recreation) should be validated by the Tongaporutu Community would be subject to a report and consultation with the leaseholders and not exclusively by Council. and Tongaporutu community before any final decision.
Request more rental income be spent in local area, e.g. Rapanui Not a matter directly related to issue of new leases. The Council has a Domain to adequately maintain mowing/spread of kikuyu one bucket policy where spending is prioritised across the wider district as a whole as to the targeting expenditure on specific areas.
Tongaporutu and Rapanui Domains need rubbish bins Not a matte directly related to the issue of new leases, this matter on relationship to Tongaporutu was considered in the recent approved Management Plan for the reserve.
Okau Road needs to be better maintained Not a matte directly related to the issue of new leases. Road Assets Team indicates that the maintenance of Okau Road has been subject to considerable expenditure and will continue to require costly maintenance due to the nature of the unstable ground.
Street lights in Tongaporutu need to be checked and maintained. Not a matte directly related to the issue of new leases. Road Assets Team indicates that the issue of lighting is under review in conjunction with the Clifton Community Board.
2 Supports the Council proposal for 20 year leases on the terms and Support for new 20 year term leases No conditions publicly notified
Wally Briggs
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3 Supports retention of batch leases Support for new leases - no term stated No
Gillian Carr Baches are iconic and Tongaporutu would be nothing without Noted them
Note Historic, Architectural values of baches as recognised by The baches are the real New Zealand Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga 5 States that as a bach owner supports new leases for at least 20 Supports the issue of new leases for a 20 year term Not advised years under current terms and conditions to ensure the community Dianne Stokes culture is preserved for future generations
States leases provide income to Council contributing to Council Noted and confirm that income and rates from the leases contributes general costs toward Council funding and upkeep of the reserve that might otherwise be funded from general rates, although no specific targeting of the income for expenditure at Tongaporutu reserve is made. States the presence of baches attract visitors to the reserve, provide security, welcoming and information to travelling visitors Noted
States that the bach owners help to maintain the reserve by picking up rubbish including that is washed up on the beach Noted
States that these baches are increasingly rare in NZ, have historical significance recognised by Heritage NZ (formerly Noted that this view is supported by Heritage New Zealand in its Historic Places Trust) submission below and in the approved Tongaporutu Reserves Management Plan States that the baches inspire artists and are used by media of signifiers of iconic and long celebrated leisure lifestyle by New Noted Zealanders 6 States that HNZ is an autonomous Crown Entity is the lead Noted and that HNZ was consulted on both the development of the Not advised agency with statutory responsibility under its legislation for the draft Management plan and the current leasing proposal Heritage New identification, protection, preservation and conservation of NZ
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Zealand historic heritage (including cultural heritage) Pouhere Taonga (HNZ) States that the 26 baches have been entered in 2011 on to the NZ Notes the significance outlined by HNZ and the view that the baches Heritage list and the baches are considered to be historically are an example of an iconic “kiwi” lifestyle architecturally and socially significant as an increasingly rare example of an iconic “kiwi” lifestyle
States that HNZ supported the recently reviewed Management Noted Plan in particular conservation policy 6.7/4 “ The Tongaporutu baches have been included on the NZ Heritage List as an Historic Area under the HNZ Pouhere Taonga Act 2014 .Inclusion on the list is a mechanism to notify the general public that this area is of significance for its historic heritage values. The Council will consider and have particular regard to any recommendations from HNZ as to appropriate measures to assist in the conservation and protection of the historic area including an assessment of anything that has effects on the historic baches”
HNZ submits on the lease proposal to seek the following: The expired lease provision to be included in the new lease provides “ That the terms and conditions of the proposed leases require the that the lessee cannot without prior Council consent erect any leaseholder to obtain the Council’s approval for any significant building or improvement, alter reinstate or extend any existing changes to the baches themselves or the site on which they are building or improvement and that such work among other things located with the understanding that the Council will consult cannot be inconsistent with the Management Plan and which in Heritage New Zealand when deciding whether to give approval to Council’s opinion will materially change the historical integrity of any changes that may affect the heritage values of the the bach on the reserve. Provision already made in the Management Tongaporutu River Baches Historic Area” Plan to consult but it is recommended that such a clause be included in the new leases if approved.
HNZ states that it would be in the interests of the lease holders Noted that the approved Reserves Management Plan does not and Council and wider community for a Conservation Plan to be contemplate a Conservation Plan to manage the heritage values of the prepared to provide guidance on how to maintain the heritage historic area, and nor was this submitted by HNZ at the time of values of the historic area. While this would fall outside the management plan review but is a matter that can now be current lease proposal, HNZ encourages the future consideration independently considered in the future. of this suggestion and to provide guidance.
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9 States that they support the retention of the bach leases and 20 Supports 20 year term leases as provides certainty of tenure and No year term as this gives certainty to owners and prospective new encourages longer term investment in maintenance and upkeep Neville and owners and encourages up keep of buildings in good repair to Clazina enhance aesthetic values of the area. Hargenson Noted that the bach holders contribute to the community population States that bach owners support the local community and are and support the local economy involved in activities building positive relationships particularly over the holiday period. Notes the decline of rural population in the district and a trend States that with the decline in permanent residents in the nationally and that the bach holder while limited to occupation 8 Tongaporutu/Ahititi area the bach community contribute to the months of the year do contribute to lessen the impact in permanent existing facilities. residents decline in the Tongaporutu/Ahititi area.
Noted States that the bach owners regard themselves as responsible guardians of natural resources as the environment ultimately affects them all. Noted and this view is supported by HNZ States that the baches are iconic kiwi baches which are part of the heritage that have been removed from the coast and rivers. Noted States that the Tongaporutu area has been enjoyed by many generations and continues to be enjoyed by those who choose to explore and create lasting memories. 10 State that they would like to see the bach leases extended to the Supports the issue of new leases with preference for a 30 year term, No longest available time under current legislation and to a 30 year noting that the current proposal is for a 20 year term which brokers Debbie and term between a 10 year and 30 year lease term taking into account the Alan Jones “balancing “requirements in the application of Section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977
State that extending the leases will provide security to bach Note that longer term leases provide better security of tenure and owners so that they can maintain and enhance the baches and incentive to expend money to maintain and enhance properties for the continue with improvements. long term.
States that they would like to see the baches being available for The leases currently provide for use as “holiday accommodation” 10 months of the year as the cost of owning a bach with rental, restricts occupation to 8 calendar months in any one year. The current
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power insurance, sewage and rubbish disposal is increasing. new leasing proposal by Council does not contemplate any change to Extending the allowable occupation period means that these costs the 8 month occupation lease restriction and it is recommended that are more achievable no change be made as the term is consistent with both Onaero and Urenui bach leases.
States that they hope that the Council takes into account how Noted passionate they are with Tongaporutu, baches and beautiful environment and believe that every bach holder/visitor fell strongly about preserving its uniqueness and history. 11 State they supports leases remain as before Not support for new leases based on existing conditions - term not Not state stated specifically Janet Bernier but “can and David State that the bach owners keep the beaches and reserve clean and Noted attend the Whittle green meeting”
State that the area has good recreational facilities and the local Noted batch owners keep good close eye on activities. 12 States supports the grant of new leases to the 26 bach holders Supports the grant of new leases for 20 year term No
John Axbey States that pleased to see Council is considering 20 year lease Notes that 10 years term is too short, and that the longer term term which is great as it will give the bach owners confidence to provides the security of tenure to give confidence to bach owners to spend money on maintenance as the 10 year lease period comes spend money on properties. around quick enough. 13 States fully supports the issue of new leases to bach holders Notes support the issue of new leases for 20 year term. No
Nola Axbey States great the Council is considering a 20 year lease term Supports the 20 year lease term 14 States strongly supports proposal for 20 year leases Supports new 20 year term leases No Margaret and Stephen State that they believe that the baches enhance rather than impair Note view that baches compliment reserve rather than detract Harrop the general public’s recreational use in many ways for the following reasons”
a) The presence of the baches provides a level of security in Note view that baches provide greater security due to the isolation what would otherwise be isolated spot with bach owners of the reserve keeping an eye on tourists and tides and erosion on the
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well used path to the three sisters
b) The baches present a picturesque and iconic scene (as Note and confirm that HNZ consider the historic and other values of confirmed by the Historic Places Trust (Heritage NZ of the baches their cultural, historic and architectural values ) which are much photographed and depicted in paintings
c) State that they are supporters (both sponsors of [prizes Notes bach holders support and contribution to events on the reserve and have on organisers) of summer programme events over summer months open to the general public and supported by families from a large catchment area including New Plymouth.
d) The rental and rates paid by the bach leaseholders Note that rental and rates paid by the bach holders supports the cost permits the Council to maintain and indeed upgrade the of reserve maintenance. recreational domain areas at either end of the line of baches rather than drawing on rates to do so.
States s that a longer lease will allow a measure of security giving Note that the issue of lease for longer term provides security of confidence for bach holders to continue to maintain their holiday tenure and incentive for bach owners to maintain properties. homes to a good standard and to take pride in the little community that is an iconic holiday spot.
State that they feel privileged to have a lease and to respect its Noted terms.
State that they offer many friends including overseas visitors the Noted free use of their bach and that benefits the Taranaki district by that enhanced opportunity Department indicates it has a neutral view on the granting of new Noted Not Stated 15 leases
Department Brings to the attention of Council that Ngati Tama has a Right of Council is aware of this provision noting that in the case of this of First Refusal for 50 years over the reserve should any part cease reserve there is no 50 year limitation that applies to a Right of First Conservation to be classified as reserve under the Reserves Act 1977. Refusal to the purchase of surplus Crown land generally
State that management of septic tank waste and storm water Noted. Statutory responsibility under the RMA for septic tank and
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runoff within individual bach leases is consistent with resource storm water rests with the Taranaki Regional Council who monitors consent conditions and incurs regular (Regional Council) water sampling and has indicated to date no concerns or issue of monitoring to aid in the prevention of estuarine contamination abatement compliance notices. and protection of culturally important fisheries. 17 Submits save costs and grant 30 year lease term Supports 30 year lease term No Barry Arbuckle 18 Grant new leases, awesome place, and baches historical “kiwi Supports retention of baches. No Samuel baches icon that are disappearing and should be embraced for Arbuckle future generations, baches are colourful. 19 Tongaporutu great community and baches integral part so should Supports retention of baches. No Kirsty be available for all to use and enjoy. McDonald 20 Incomplete No submission detail (incomplete) No William Lovell Support 30 year term to reduce costs to Council. Provide certainty Supports 30 year lease term. No 21 to leaseholders to invest in up keep and maintenance
Mike Brown 22 Support 30 years as 10 and 20 years comes around too quick and Supports 30 year lease term No Jan Brown cheaper for Council and provide certainty to bach owners spend money maintain their baches for the long term 23 Been visiting Taranaki for last 20 years, love the stretch of coast Supports new leases - no term stated No Glenda Brooks and have stayed numerous times in baches at tongaporutu, which are iconic, kiwiana, with history for good old fashioned summer holidays and winter storms. 24 Support new leases Supports new leases - no term stated. No Tess Dodge 25 Support new leases Supports new leases - no term stated No Frances Brown 26 Enjoy holidaying at Tongaporutu for the past 4 years, happy Supports new leases - no term stated No Steve and Val environment with lots of family’s enjoying themselves and like Home to see that continue. 27 Support new leases. Supports new leases - no term stated No Diane Stern
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28 Support new leases. Supports new leases - no term stated No Nikki Truman 29 .Support new leases. Baches are iconic and should be retained. Supports new leases - no term stated No Anne Home 30 Community at Tongaporutu provides peacefulness and vibrancy Supports new leases - no term stated No Sally Morris and really good things about “old NZ” which should be retained for current and future generations which is positive and healthy 31 Iconic New Zealand baches Supports lease for 20 year term No Gillian Hurley- Gordon 32 Renew the leases Supports new leases - no term stated. No Zayed Rabbaney 33 Keep the baches as they are history. Supports retention of baches. No Michael Ford 34 Baches make NZ fantastic and little to be gained by the removal Supports new leases - no term stated. No Jay Arbuckle of the baches which are not an eyesore and are kept/restored/looked after. 35 Makes sense to increase the lease term of baches. Supports new leases - no term stated. No Logan Willemen 36 Support new leases for the historic baches Supports new leases - no term stated. No Hannah Sperber 37 Support new leases. Regular visitor. Supports new leases - no term stated. No Maureen Draper 38 Parents and grandparents bough bach at Tongaporutu and spent Supports new leases - no term stated. Yes Jozien Hannah summers as a child/adult and would like my children to have same fantastic memories. Iconic historic place where unforgettable memories are. 39 Beautiful iconic area in Taranaki , which we are lucky to have. Supports new leases for 20 year term. No Rhian Got married in Tongaporutu, the area is magical and brings Arbuckle families together. 40 Love Tongaporutu spending time as a young family, enjoy Supports retention of baches. Yes
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Jo Ryan renting, it is calming and a little bit of paradise. A mistake to let them go. 41 Baches have social and emotional significance, undoubtedly and Supports retention of baches. No Joan Wilson attractive and welcoming Taranaki out post. 42 Allows families to enjoy extended holidays and become engaged Supports new leases - no term stated No Mark Wilson with the local community improving resident and visitor quality of life and social interaction. Taranaki icon with significant heritage value 43 Baches are an Kiwi icon and have holidayed there a number of Supports new leases - no term stated No Ingrid Devoy times and they contribute to an awesome community. 44 Continuing leases can only be positive. Supports new leases for 20 year term. No Marie Connolly 45 Indicates proportional holding cost of proposed lease is in order Supports new lease for 20 year term. No Harley Betts of 70% and strongly disagrees with the large increase because.
• A market rental if applied does not take into account the Independently rental takes into consideration lease restrictions. restrictions imposed on bach owners particularly as can only be occupied for 8 months of the year,
• Expects market rental to be scaled i.e. by 1/3. As indicated proposed rental values independently assessed. • No acknowledgement of maintenance and general up keep of sections. Lessees are responsible for maintenance on baches they own and up keep of sections as a lease condition. • Bach holders have to maintain own retaining walls and riverbank erosion and would be a significant matter if The retaining walls are subject to coastal permits granted by the not maintained providing a free service by bach owners Taranaki Regional Council to bach owners not Council. at considerable expense.
• A high lease cost should be reflected in a lower market Noted but as indicated rental values are fixed by an independent value for sections, registered valuation.
46 Baches symbolise what a great holiday should be. Baches are well Supports retention of baches. No Bruce Cowley care for and maintained. Part of Tongaporutu history. 47 Baches are kiwi icon Supports retention of baches No
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Barbara Wood 48 Baches are a kiwi icon as part of kiwiana, have social and Supports retention of baches No Anne Cowley emotional significance to the entrance of Taranaki. 49 Baches have great historic value and are classic kiwi icon, we Supports retention of baches No Brad Raven love them. 50 Support proposed lease and conditions Supports new leases - no term stated No Dion Cowley 51 Blair Incomplete submission No submission content (incomplete) No Cowley 52 Great times at Tongaporutu, baches are iconic. Part of heritage Supports retention of baches. No Glenys and wish to continue to visit with children and grandchildren with Waters its quaint environment. 53 Attractive row of quaint colourful historic, classic kiwi icon Supports new leases - no term stated No baches, a welcoming outpost, loved and cared for, icon and part Lisa-Marie of kiwiana and of social and emotional significance. Integral part Lines of community, significant values, and symbolise a good kiwi holiday. Tongaporutu relatively undeveloped coastal holiday settlement where we can enjoy the simple pleasures of river and beach for generations to come. Bach owners run summer events popular with local community and holiday makers. 54 Supports 20 year term Supports new leases for a 20 year term No Colleen Connolly
55 My parents have owned bach since 1984, and 5 year old son so Supports new leases for 30 year term No Catherin could lease be for 30 years. “Tonga” is a special treasure and real Bovey NZ icon. 56 100% passionate support for lease extension. Supports new leases - no term stated No Danny Brown 57 Bach thing not just about bach owners, but extended family and Support new leases for a 20 year term. No Rob and friends to provide people to make a connection, something that is Neecey Baker a constant threat to our society 58 First went to Tonagaporutu in early 1960 as Aunty and Uncle had Supports new leases for a 30 year term. No Helen a bach there, wonderful place to visit and take children as Sister Tweeddale and husband own a bach and family have experienced over last 50
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years 59 Submission not complete No submission content (in complete) No Geoffrey Saxby 60 Baches have historic value that will benefit future generations. Supports new leases for a 20 year term but preferably longer No Peter Mulcahy Bach owners help maintain the river area through retaining walls. 61 Baches are an asset to area, and owners give assistance to Supports new leases for a 20 year term. No Lou Briggs travelling public with vehicle . problems. Baches are iconic, recognised as an historic place, people take photos of baches because of quirky appeal and huge loss if baches were to go. 62 Baches of great historic Value, kiwi icon, river and baches well Supports retention of baches. No Wendy kept, should be kept. Johnstone 63 Terms and conditions of leases a “win win” to the public, Supports new leases for a 20 year term Yes Jenny Council, ratepayers. 20 years provides for protection and Goddard maintenance of river edge. Ensures summer events continue. Recognised by Heritage NZ. Wonderful post card view of baches and hope preserved for another generation. Useful income stream for Council. 64 Fourth generation to call Tongaporutu my favourite place in NZ. Supports new leases for a 20 year term No Margot Hold special memories and one day hope to bring own children Mulcahy to our bach to enjoy an idyllic childhood. Commends Council for processes in dealing with lease proposal.
65 Supports keeping baches that are a surviving piece of kiwiana, Supports new leases - no term stated No Caroline which are important to community and asset to area and Briggs recognised by Heritage NZ as of significance. Baches attract people especially travelling public. Bach holders keep area rubbish free so everyone can enjoy green clean image. 66 Have been living at Tongaporutu for 25 years. Bach owners assist Supports retention of baches. Yes Rebecca with car troubles, assist visitors with tides and water conditions, Cowley swimmers in trouble. Please keep baches as iconic and part of
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history. 67 Renew leases part of our heritage. Supports new leases - no term stated No Arlene Hewett 68 Renew leases as bach owners truly love the area and are proud to Supports new leases - no term stated No Merrin Brace look after an iconic slice of NZ.
69 Family Supports new ground leases. Supports new leases for 20 year term No Caroline Teague 70 Support 20 year lease to enable residents to continue to enjoy Supports new leases for 20 year term No Phillip Alles their lifestyle in this beautiful part of Taranaki. 71 Submission incomplete (name and address only) No submission content No Harry Greig 72 Supports new leases for distinctive area, and entry point to North Supports new leases - no term specified. No Andrew Carr Taranaki which reflects history of coastal recreation. 73 Supports baches, lovely vista along estuary enjoyed by many Supports retention of baches. No Rowan Dixon families . Tongaporutu community spirit to be proud of, where there is opportunity to explore coast and participate in fun events for kiwi kids, friends and tourists to enjoy, 74 Supports leases - 20 years Supports new leases for a 20 year term No Kevin Vile 75 Baches have built a unique community, special place that is Supports new leases - no term specified No Elizabeth welcoming to public, and leases are important to protect the Walker physical and social environment. 76 Renew leases Supports new leases - no term specified No Rhys Adams 77 Please make 20 year leases happen. Supports new leases for a 20 year term No Erin Connolly 78 Support kiwi tradition, shame there are not more like it. Supports new leases - no term specified No Alistair Gall 79 Been going to family bach for over 30 years, supporting large Supports new leases for a 20 year term No Chris family now into 3rd generation of children enjoying quality of Parkinson family. 80 Enjoy family holidays with whanau, and our tamariki and mokos Supports new leases for a 20 year term No Robert are able to relax without modern day stresses.
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Parkinson 81 Provision for lease termination sufficient protection of public Supports new leases for a 20 year term No Philip Cleaver interest if any significant change in use. Baches have heritage value and do not impinge on public use needs, the leases will protect historic values . 82 Buildings are classic example of traditional kiwi bach that should Supports new leases - no term specified No Patricia be maintained and preserved. Glensor 83 Supports Council proposal for 20 year leases term, will give bach Support new leases for a 20 year term. No Joanne owners confidence to spend money on maintenance for a 10 Sanderson years comes around too quick. Delightful spot with baches perched over river that is truly iconic. 84 Beautiful example of traditional kiwi bachs an asset to the Supports retention of baches. No Brendan La Taranaki experience. Enjoy a break when travelling at Franchie Tongaporutu.
85 Sanderson family has a bach which I have spent many wonderful Supports new leases - no term stated No Laura years staying with past memories, would be devastated to see Keenleyside baches go. 86 Bach has been in family for many years, history attached and Supports proposal for 20 year leases No Janet Blaauw would be a shame for new generations of children not to be able to share history. 87 Tongaporutu a special place, with iconic baches, that bring value Supports retention of baches. No Toby Dixon to area and cannot be replaced. Strong community, sense of belonging. Bach holder’s acts as guides to visitors, as area full of hazards, bar crossing, cliff faces and strong tides. Baches do not inhibit the public visiting, but increase likelihood with a safe environment and sense of security. Without baches river bank maintenance would be lost.
88 Retaining baches enhances test that public have sufficient amenity Supports retention of baches. No Murray Dixon and public benefit from their presence. Each year 80% baches are
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rented or loaned for use by the wider public for recreation. Bach owners responsible to maintain sea walls and leased land at no cost to Council or wider community. 89 Special place for kiwi holiday, our family. Fond memories of Supports retention of baches. No Sue and Gary holidaying with friends. Baches an icon, Sanger 90 Supports lease renewal Supports new leases - no term stated No Brendan Axbey
91 Baches are integral part of NZ history and at all costs should Supports new leases - no term stated No George remain and hope lease extension prevails. Gardiner 92 Supports new leases Supports new leases - no term stated Sue Radcliffe 93 Supports lease extension from 10 to 20 years. Supports new leases for 20 year term Yes Ryan Sanderson 95 Tongaporutu a wicked place. Does not specifically specify if in support of baches or new leases No Lyall Sanderson 96 Favours 20 year leases. Supports new leases for 20 year term No Jadyn Keene 97 Requests maximum lease term available Supports leases for maximum term (30 years) No Julie Mulcahy
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SUMMARY OF THREE OBJECTIONS Objection Objection (and or combined submission) Response Wish to be heard 4 Objects to the grant of new 20 year ground leases and Does not support new 20 year lease or at least until situations with sewage Yes submits that current leases continue until the situations and the bowling Club are rectified. Note that sewage is monitored through Gaelynn relating to sewage and bowling Club site are rectified resource consent administered by the Regional Council. Any proposed Gibbs sale of the bowling green will be subject to a separate process, public Tongaporutu notice and Council approval and is not a matter relevant to the grant of any new leases.
States that there are vastly inadequate systems for dealing with raw sewage both from leasehold baches and from public The bach owners are responsible for adequate waste water in accord with toilets. the requirements of the Taranaki Regional Council (TRC) and Health Act requirements. The TRC is charged with monitoring permits and discharge of sewage directly into the river is prohibited. The TRC indicate that to date no concerns have arisen over waste water disposal. Discharge water from the Council owned toilet is treated by an approved septic tank and drainage field.
States that sewage run off from both areas occurs on frequent The TRC is responsible for monitoring and the matter referred to the occasions and especially in the following circumstances Council involving spring high tides, torrential rain, and high bach occupancy during holiday periods, high visitor numbers to picnic area and any combination of these.
States that reserve must have robust sewage system self A clause in the expired lease provides that within 18 months of lease contained and managed to prevent common occurrence of raw commencement the lessee must install and maintain to the satisfaction of sewage contamination of river and environs TRC a waste domestic water disposal system that complies with the rules in the TRC Regional Freshwater and Coastal Plan and not allow waste water to be discharged directly into any adjacent watercourse and only allow a discharge to land in the reserve that is not likely to have a significant adverse effect on the watercourse or on or adjacent to the reserve. The TRC confirms that it is satisfied that all lessees are complying with the relevant rules of Regional Plans.
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States that the drainage field from the public toilets has been The public toilet drainage field has been relocated and the area does transferred to the adjoining picnic, playing and parking area as receive some surface flooding in extreme weather conditions, and this a result of problems and that after rain ponding is clearly flooding was occurring prior to the relocation of the drainage field. This visible beyond the area marked with rocks and remains for activity has been approved through the building consent process. weeks.
States that open drains from some of the lease baches adjacent This matter has been referred to the Regional Council as a matter under to the picnic area have been piped and covered in with hidden their jurisdiction. outlets in culvert pipes in an effort to dilute the effluent with creek water from the neighbouring farms before draining to the river.
States Sewage system needs to provide for maximum use This is a resource consent matter referred to the Regional Council. capacity as the 8 month occupation limitation does not prevent residences being packed to the gunnels.
States that the council is aware of ongoing problems of NPDC is not aware of any issues, and these matters are managed through sewage and drainage and it is Council’s responsibility to the Regional Council resource consent monitoring regime noting that from ensure that all residents, visitors, users are able to swim, time to time storm water will pond. Both the NPDC and TRC objective is picnic, eat fish and enjoy the scenery in a healthy to protect the environment. environment.
References 11.1.10 of Management Plan and indicates that as The reference in the Management Plan to the bowling green land is not a reserve for recreation was intended to form an area where relevant to the proposed leasing issue, but any decision to dispose of the the surrounding home owners and families could have an open site would be subject to a Council report and decision, public notice and area for their use and public use. consideration of objections The esplanade reserve along the river to the township is for the purpose of riparian protection, in stream protection and public access and recreation where that is compatible. The esplanade has a different purpose to a recreation reserve. Notwithstanding that this matter is irrelevant to the lease proposal.
States that the then existing tennis pavilion was pulled down This scenario is not contemplated in the approved Management Plan, only and one tennis court moved to sit where it is now on the road the bowling green is outlined for future disposal consideration side of the tennis court area. The current club house was then
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erected and the extended open space was developed as a bowling green The Council is now looking at disposing of the land getting rid of the tennis club room and opening up access way the so the open area can be developed in the future.
7 States that Poutama objects to the issue of private leases over Notes that Poutama object to private bach leases on the reserve. The Not advised Puketapu pa with Tongaporutu reserve approved Management Plan indicates that the District Plan records no Russell archaeological, pa or waahi tapu site within the confines of the reserve. Gibbs - Nga Hapu o Poutama States that Poutama are the tangata whenua iwi in the northern The Crown in its settlement under the with Ngati Tama Claims Settlement part of New Plymouth District and exercise manuwhenua and Act 2003, recognised the recreation reserve as being within that iwi’s “area kaitiakitanga at Tongaporutu including the Tongaporutu of interest: as per boundaries denoted on the map to the Deed of Recreation Reserve Settlement and further provide for a Right of First Refusal over the reserve should it cease to be required for reserve purposes in the future. The Crown owns the reserve sp any disposal under the RFR would be with the Crown. The Council only administers the reserve by way of a vesting from the Crown. States that the reserve is an important part of Poutama rohe While Poutama consider they are an iwi and there are cross claims by and is waahi tapu and that the hapu has significant current as Poutama and Ngati Maniapoto, but the Crown for the time being has only well as historical, cultural and spiritual connections which recognised the historical cultural and spiritual connection of Ngati Tama. include manuwhenua over the reserve and surrounding area. Notwithstanding that under the Ngati Tama Claims Settlement Act 2003, The Crown advised the Council that Poutama are an iwi the Crown is not precluded from granting other statutory authority and advised Council that the hapu exercise acknowledgements or Deeds of recognition with persons other than Ngati kaitiakitanga over the area Tama or the governance entity with respect to the same area. The Council is not aware of any communication directly from the Crown advising Council that Poutama are an iwi authority or that the hapu exercise kaitiakitanga over the area. The Council is aware that Poutama are listed on the Te Kahui Mangai website, but that in itself does not specifically imply formal Crown recognition of that group as an iwi authority as is stated in the website.
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States that the Management Plan as such has not provided for The same issue was raised by Poutama when heard prior to the Council the cultural needs of Poutama which include rights of deliberations on the draft Management Plan seeking an amendment, but no protection of use, values and access. change was subsequently made. No change is recommended.
States that the Management plan has not declared the portion The Management Plan does not provide for revocation over the bach site of the reserve where the baches are located as surplus and as area of the reserve as being “surplus”. The issue of leases is within the such issuing leases is outside the scope of the plan. scope of the statutory provisions of Section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977, and is not addressed in the Management Plan.
States that the lease area is part of the Puketapu Pa and is As indicated the District Plan does not record any pa site within the tauranga waka, Ahurei, Turanga waahi and place for fishing confines of the Tongaporutu reserve and the reserve is lawfully vested in and kaukau for Puketapu and other pa and that the majority of the Council for administration purposes. The public have a free right of the Puketapu pa is managed by Poutama Te Ahuru and the access to the reserve at all times for recreation or fishing. only part managed by the Council is the portion beside the river . Council’s proposal is offensive to the Kaitiakitanga of waahi tapu (Puketapu pa) and that the rationale for cultural offense has been estimated at $76,711.00 per year to Council
States that the Maori population in this area is growing rapidly As indicated in the Management Plan usage of the reserve will continue to and with demand for customary and recreational use including be monitored to gauge any increase or decrease in demand over the Tongaporutu area and reserve, the primary school has 60% comparative years during the peak summer season. Maori students.
States that the advert of formal hapu planning within the hapu The demand for public use of the reserve will continue to be monitored. and associated economic development is expected to continue this growth exponentially and rebuilding of Marae and Papakainga has contributed to this. Treaty settlements outcomes will increase this growth and demand still further.
States that Poutama ha s been allocated customary fish Noted and it is assumed that any rights pertain to coastal fishing permits.
States those already large gatherings at local marae have Noted caused conflict between bach leaseholders and Tangata Whenua concerning fishing and swimming.
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States that Poutama do not agree that these rights be The reserve is lawfully vested in the Council from the Crown to administer extinguished and that part of the reserve that the Council and the matters of rights claimed by Poutama are not a matter for the propose to lease is the opportunity for Council to provide for Council and sit with the Waitangi Tribunal or Maori Land Court. these rights.
States that the Council has Treaty of Waitangi and statutory The Council has meet its statutory obligations by consulting with Poutama obligations to Poutama and not to the leaseholders and if the on the proposal to grant new leases and consider their Council insists on offering leases they should first be offered objection/submission to the hapu.
States that Poutama require use of the land for cultural and recreational purposes of the bach area and delegation of While the land is a public reserve any member of the public .has a right of administrative authority if Council do not wish to use the land access to the reserve for recreational purposes. The reserve does not have or is surplus to council or wider community requirements. the status of a Maori reservation. The Council cannot delegate administrative authority to any party and if the land was not required by the Council, then it would be subject to the right of first refusal in favour of Ngati Tama.
8 Seeks removal of the baches to enable that part so occupied to Notes objects to leases on the reserve and submits that they be removed to Not advised be enjoyed by hundreds of self contained Campers. enable that area to be enjoyed by self contained Campers. This report Richard recommends that new leases be issued on the grounds that the land Burton occupied by the baches is in the opinion of the Council not required for Tongaporutu recreation based on known usage monitoring and in recognition that the reserve is located in a remote rural community.
States that now see one or two Self contained Campers every Note that the Management Plan recognises use by self contained campers night and sometimes up to 10 or so, and based on an average but that freedom camping on the reserve is not permitted. The reserve is two per night would enable 735 people plus locals to safely not a designated camp ground. enjoy this lovely area.
States that the negotiations be undertaken with land owner on The reserve occupied by the baches is a Crown owned reserve and there is northern side of river to relocate baches to settle matter for all no obligation on the part of the Council which only administers the reserve times to relocate baches or undertake such investigation.
States removal of baches will stop the continual pollution of The view expressed was referred to the Regional Council with the
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the river. Sewage and grey water goes into the river and the response that water monitoring is undertaken and there have been no Regional Council only does a “sniff test” every 3 years concerns to date. The lessees are permitted to use their baches for holiday States that bach usage has dropped off significantly since the accommodation for 8 months of the year, but the Council does not monitor late 1980’s bach usage only public use of the reserve.
States public use of the foreshore was stopped as baches The baches are an existing activity fronting the river so public access is controlled that area previously used by the whole district and confined along the front of 8 baches at the western end. However there is many campers adequate access to the river and coast at low tide by the public.
States that in 1945 the Clifton County illegally subdivided the The historical situation involving the occupation of baches is outlined in road reserve into 28 minute sections of which 26 were sold the approved Management Plan. However this is not a relevant to the before the Crown stepped in and stopped the sale of the last proposal to issue new leases over the bach sites two
States that on 30 March 1999 a councillor and leasehold bach This relates to an exchange of land option investigation put forward by the owner together with bach owners met with the then Minister Minister at the time to see if batches could be relocated. The Conservation of Conservation and with the backing of the minister Department subsequent investigation report concluded that there was no attempted to force the Gibbs to sell a large part of their farm suitable “like for like” private land available for exchange that could be as land swap for the leasehold areas. considered for relocation and the proposal was not taken further. At no time was there any move to compulsorily acquire land from the Gibbs although the potential of their land for exchange was examined. Any exchange would have been by voluntary negotiation.
States that the leaseholders are trying the good citizen act by View Noted putting the underpass under the Tongaporutu bridge but wrecking the rest of the area
States that Global warming is causing major problems with Noted. The Management Plan for the reserve indicates that the TRC report incredible erosion along the foreshore and flooding the bach indicates that the Tongaporutu river is at risk of storm surge and river bank area regularly and proof of warming are that Mangroves are erosion. now growing at Tongaporutu and Awakino.
States a heritage order placed on the river from road reserve A search of the Heritage NZ list identified the baches and PouTehia Pa denotes the importance of the largest and one of the oldest pa historic reserve on the northern bank of the Tongaporutu river. The sites in the area terraced pa on the southern side of the bach location but outside the
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reserve is not included on the list and therefore has no heritage order on it. However while included in the District Plan the extent of the pa site does not include the area on the riverside of Clifton Road and impact on the reserve.
States that the new Tongaporutu Reserve Management Plan The draft Management Plan was approved following extensive was approved in February 2015 but the Tongaporutu District consultation with 102 submissions being received and considered by as a whole was not aware of this until June 2015. Council.
States that the Tongaporutu Tennis Club comprises land The land on which the tennis courts are situated is part of the inland originally owned by the Southcott family that was gifted to the portion of the Tongaporutu reserve irrespective of its acquisition and the Tennis Club in 1923 and that the Council should give the Club Tennis Club does not hold a lease over its Club rooms or Toilet and has a lease in perpetuity at no financial fee. indicated that it does not wish to enter into a lease, despite this being contrary to the Reserves Act 1977. Notwithstanding that matter is not States that the Bowling Green area now unused as such relevant to the grant of new leases and was addressed in the approved provides an emergency helicopter pad and is used by children Management Plan and has yet to be resolved. The matte is not relevant to as a playground and must stay that way. the leasing proposal.
States that many beautiful Pohutukawa on the eastern side of The clearance was carried out following requests from the local SH3 were removed in 2014 without consultation causing community, but is not a matter relevant to the grant of new leases over the major road noise and light problems and that this was financed bach sites. This matter was raised during the Management plan review by the Council. process and decision and did not result in any amendment.
States that a road hazard was created by removing poplar trees This matter was raised during the Management Plan process, but is not from SH3 verge that stopped a number of vehicles going over relevant to the current leasing proposal. the bank which means vehicles will roll onto stumps with a likely outcome.
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Council Wednesday 28 October 2015
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APPENDIX 4
POSSIBLE RESOLUTIONS FOR EACH OPTION
Option 1: Grant twenty year ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases
That having considered all matters raised in the report and all written and oral submissions, the Council:
a. Resolves that in accordance with section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977 and in exercise of a delegation from the Minister of Conservation:
i. it acknowledges that the part of Tongaporutu Reserve on which the baches are located is not currently being used for the purpose of a recreation reserve;
ii. the land on which the baches is located is not likely to be used for the purposes of a recreation reserve; and
iii. it is inadvisable or inexpedient to revoke the reserve status of the land on which the baches are located.
b. Resolves in accordance with section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977 to grant ground leases to the owners of baches located at Tongaporutu Reserve, and approximately shown on the Plan attached as Appendix Three to the report on the following terms:
i. Term: 20 years (terminable by the Council on six months notice if the Council is of the opinion that the land leased is not being used or is not being sufficiently used for the purposes specified in the lease, or if the Council considers that the land is required for the purposes of public recreation);
ii. Commencement Date: 1 April 2015;
iii. Rent: independently assessed by registered valuer appointed by the Council;
iv. Rent Reviews: three five years from the Commencement Date;
v Use: holiday home accommodation;
vi Other terms: maximum occupation of eight months per year;
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vii. Otherwise on the same terms that applied to the recently expired leases, with any necessary updates to take account of subsequent changes to the law and standard leasing terms, provided all terms are consistent with the obligations of the Reserves Act 1977.
c. Authorises and instructs the Chief Executive to negotiate and approve the final terms of the leases with the bach owners, subject to the relevant provisions set out in Schedule 1 of the Reserves Act 1977 and subject to the requirements of resolution b. above.
Option 2: Grant twenty year ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases plus an additional clause relating to consultation with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga
That having considered all matters raised in the report and all written and oral submissions, the Council:
a. Resolves that in accordance with section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977 and in exercise of a delegation from the Minister of Conservation:
i. that it acknowledges that the part of Tongaporutu Reserve on which the baches are located is not currently being used for the purpose of a recreation reserve;
ii. the land on which the baches is located is not likely to be used for the purposes of a recreation reserve; and
iii. it is inadvisable or inexpedient to revoke the reserve status of the land on which the baches are located.
b. Resolves in accordance with section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977 to grant ground leases to the owners of baches located at Tongaporutu Reserve, and approximately shown on the Plan attached as Appendix Three to the report on the following terms:
i. Term: 20 years (terminable by the Council on six months notice if the Council is of the opinion that the land leased is not being used or is not being sufficiently used for the purposes specified in the lease, or if the Council considers that the land is required for the purposes of public recreation);
ii. Commencement Date: 1 April 2015;
iii. Rent: independently assessed by registered valuer appointed by the Council;
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iv. Rent Reviews: every three years from the Commencement Date;
v Use: holiday home accommodation;
vi Further restrictions: An acknowledgement from lessees that the Council may consult with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga regarding any proposal that may result in significant changes to a bach or bach site, including (without limitation) a request from a lessee for approval to carry out building work, exterior painting or other works that might impact upon the heritage values of the baches or the bach sites;
vii Other terms: maximum occupation of eight months per year;
vii. Otherwise on the same terms that applied to the recently expired leases, with any necessary updates to take account of subsequent changes to the law and standard leasing terms, provided all terms are consistent with the obligations of the Reserves Act 1977.
c. Authorises and instructs the Chief Executive to negotiate and approve the final terms of the leases with the bach owners, subject to the relevant provisions set out in Schedule 1 of the Reserves Act 1977 and subject to the requirements of resolution b. above.
Option 3: Grant ground leases on the same basis as the recently expired leases for a different term (ten years or thirty years)
That having considered all matters raised in the report and all written and oral submissions, the Council:
a. Resolves that in accordance with section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977 and in exercise of a delegation from the Minister of Conservation:
iv. it acknowledges that the part of Tongaporutu Reserve on which the baches are located is not currently being used for the purpose of a recreation reserve;
v. the land on which the baches is located is not likely to be used for the purposes of a recreation reserve; and
vi. it is inadvisable or inexpedient to revoke the reserve status of the land on which the baches are located.
b. Resolves in accordance with section 73(3) of the Reserves Act 1977 to grant ground leases to the owners of baches located at Tongaporutu Reserve, and approximately shown on the Plan attached as Appendix Three to the report on the following terms:
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i. Term: [ten/thirty] (terminable by the Council on six months notice if the Council is of the opinion that the land leased is not being used or is not being sufficiently used for the purposes specified in the lease, or if the Council considers that the land is required for the purposes of public recreation);
ii. Commencement Date: 1 April 2015;
iii. Rent: independently assessed by registered valuer appointed by the Council;
iv. Rent Reviews: every three years from the Commencement Date;
v Use: holiday home accommodation;
vi Further restrictions: An acknowledgement from lessees that the Council may consult with Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga regarding any proposal that may result in significant changes to a bach or bach site, including (without limitation) a request from a lessee for approval to carry out building work, exterior painting or other works that might impact upon the heritage values of the baches or the bach sites; [in or out]
vii Other terms: maximum occupation of eight months per year;
vii. Otherwise on the same terms that applied to the recently expired leases, with any necessary updates to take account of subsequent changes to the law and standard leasing terms, provided all terms are consistent with the obligations of the Reserves Act 1977.
c. Authorises and instructs the Chief Executive to negotiate and approve the final terms of the leases with the bach owners, subject to the relevant provisions set out in Schedule 1 of the Reserves Act 1977 and subject to the requirements of resolution b. above.
Option 4: Decline to grant ground leases and engage with the community on the future of the land occupied by the baches, including possible removal of the baches
That having considered all matters raised in the report and all written and oral submissions, the Council:
a. Declines to grant ground leases to the owners of baches located at Tongaporutu Reserve and approximately shown on the Plan attached as Appendix Three to the report; and
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b. Instructs the Chief Executive to report back to the Council with a recommendation for an engagement and consultation process to determine the views and preferences of the community regarding the future of the land occupied by the baches, including possible the removal of the baches from Tongaporutu Reserve.
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Council Wednesday 28 October 2015
Do you want to speak to the Council in support of your Postal Address Daytime Phone Number Email submission? Comments Sub NFirst Name Last Name Address 1 Address 2 City Response It must cost a lot of money each time new leases are due, To save costs I would recommend a 30 year lease period. I am 17 Barry Arbuckle 11 Junction Street Welborn New Plymouth 011 64 274 987 413 [email protected] No totally in favor of renewing the leases. Sincerely Barry Arbuckle These baches should be granted new leases not only because it is an awesome place to escape the rat race but also the fact that these baches are of historical importance, not only that they are an icon to taranaki. Around the country over the years the iconic "kiwi baches" have been disappearing we don't want to just remember that they were there we should embrace them and keep them around for future generations. you truly know travelling from the north your are back in 18 Samuel Arbuckle 11 Junction Street New Plymouth 011 64 27 265 5667 [email protected] No taranaki when you catch a glimpse of these colourful dwellings. My family had a bach over on Hills Road for over 50 years. Tongaporutu is a great little community and the leased baches and their residents are an integral part of that. These baches should be available for both the people who own the leases and other New Zealanders (or international visitors) to use and enjoy for a long time to come. I live in Australia and miss this 19 Kirsty McDonald 1/535 King Street Newtown Sydney 011 61 401 587 114 [email protected] No place every day. Thanks, Kirsty McDonald 20 William Lovell 7 Sanders Ave New Plymouth [email protected] No I support the proposal to grant new leases. I recommend 30 year leases as a means to reduce costs to Council and to provide certainty to the bach leasholders so they will feel comfortable to invest in the proper upkeep and maintenance of 21 Mike Brown 22 Pilot Road RD 48 Urenui 011 64 6-752 5995 [email protected] No their properties. Perhaps a review after 20 years could be built into the 30 year lease.
I fully support the NPDC in issuing new leases to these wonderful iconic Kiwi baches. To issue 30-year leases would make the most sense. 10-year and 20-year leases come around very quickly. 30-year leases are cheaper for the council. They 22 Jan Brown 22 Pilot Road RD 48 Urenui 4378 011 64 6-752 5995 [email protected] No also give a degree of certainty to the bachowners who want to spend money maintaining their baches for the long term. We support the NPDC issuing new leases for these wonderful baches. We have been visiting the Taranaki for the last 20 years from Oakura to Tongaporutu and Mokau. We love this stretch of coast and have been lucky to enough to stay numerous times in one of the Tongaporutu baches. They are iconic, they are colourful and interesting, they are Kiwiana at it's best and they have so much history with successive generations returning for good old fashioned summer holidays 23 Glenda Brooks 23 Dexter Avenue Mt Eden 1024 Auckland 011 64 9-630 3366 [email protected] No (...and winter storms) 24 Tessa Dodge 51 Croziers Rd Christchurch 011 64 27 246 8004 [email protected] No I support the NPDC giving new leases 25 Frances Brown 2/4 Wendell Place Greenlane Auckland 1061 011 64 274 869 808 [email protected] No I support the NPDC giving new leases. My wife and I support the NPDC giving new leases. We have enjoyed holidaying at Tongaporutu for the past four years. The happy environment with lots of families enjoying themselves has been wonderful to be a part of. We would like to see this 26 Steve And Val Horne 627 B Grey St Hamilton East Hamilton 3216 Hamilton 011 64 7-853 5335 [email protected] No continue. 27 Diane Sterne 24a Amaru Road One Tree Hill Auckland 011 64 21 120 6454 [email protected] No I support the NPDC giving new leases 28 Nikki Truman 106 Awanui Street Merrilands New Plymouth 011 64 6-757 3100 [email protected] No I support the NPDC giving new leases. 29 Anne Horne 24 Kings Rd Mt Roskill Auckland 011 64 9-923 9787 [email protected] No I support the NPDC giving new leases. These baches are iconic and should be retained. I support the NPDC giving new leases. The location and supportive community at Tongaporutu provides a place of peacefulness yet vibrancy, and a sense of the really good things about "old NZ" which it would be lovely to retain for current and future generations to enjoy. Even though I live in Auckland - which I understand can seem an all-consuming place to some - I'm one of many who appreciate that it's not (and shouldn't be) all about the cities! It's important to have communities like Tongaporutu throughout NZ. They benefit everyone, by demonstrating another way of living which is 30 Sally Morris [email protected] No traditional yet continues to be valid, positive and healthy, generation after generation. 31 Gillian Hurley-Gordon 156 Mangorei Road Merrilands New Plymouth 011 64 6-758 4190 [email protected] No I support the 20 year leases for these iconic New Zealand baches 32 Zayed Rabbaney 12 Ngaio St Strandon New Plymouth 011 64 27 251 0033 [email protected] No leases should be renewed 33 Michael Ford 22 Dorset Street Opunake 011 64 27 301 7401 [email protected] No Keep them they are history The Baches at Tongaporutu are what makes New Zealand fantastic. There is very little to be gained by the removal of the Baches and in my opinion are a fantastic thing to see when coming into Taranaki from the north. They aren't an eyesore at 34 Jay Arbuckle 3/40 Fulford Street New Plymouth 011 64 27 841 7960 [email protected] No all and are all lovingly kept/restored/looked after. Extend the leases on the Baches! 35 Logan Willemen 418 Upland Rd Bell Block New Plymouth [email protected] No It makes good sense to increase the lease of the batchs 36 Hannah Sperber 134 Rosier Rd Glen Eden Auckland 011 64 21 121 8201 [email protected] No I support the New Plymouth District Council issuing new leases for the historic baches at Tongaporutu. 37 Maureen Draper 1 Empress Close CUNGULLA AUSTRALIA [email protected] No I support the NPDC giving new leases. I am a regular visitor to Tonaporutu. My father grew up spending summers as a child in these baches, my parents and grandparents brought a Bach in tongaporutu which led to me spending my summers as a child/adult in our family Bach and eventually I would like my future children to have the same fantastic memories in tongaporutu like I did. It's become part of our family line and other Bach owners also become part of your family. It's a iconic historic place where unforgettable memories are made, I am in full 38 Jozien Hannah 43 Brennan Place Opunake [email protected] Yes support of extending the leases.
Please renew the Tongaporutu batches for the 20 year lease. It's a beautiful, iconic are in Taranaki. We are very lucky to 39 Rhian Arbuckle 3/40 Fulford Street New Plymouth [email protected] No have something like this in Taranaki. I got married in Tonaporutu, the area is just magical. It brings families together We love tongaporutu spending time as a young family Enjoying renting a bach.. it is so calming and a Little bit of paradise. 40 Jo Ryan 121 Hamlet Street Stratford 011 64 6-765 6905 [email protected] Yes It would be a mistake not to have them.
41 Joan Wilson 6 Catherine Crescent Moturoa New Plymouth 4310 011 64 6-751 0484 [email protected] No The baches have a social and emotional significance. They are undoubtedly, an attractive & welcoming outpost of Taranaki. The lease of reserve for the occupation of the baches allows many families to enjoy extended holidays and become engaged with the local community improving resident and visitors quality of life by providing social interaction. The baches 42 Mark Wilson 6 Catherine Crescent Moturoa New Plymouth 011 64 274 963 249 [email protected] No are a Taranaki icon with significant heritage value. I fully support the Council approving new leases for these iconic Kiwi baches. We have holidayed there a number of times 43 C Ingrid Devoy 8 Hervey Way Kaiwharawhara Wellington 011 64 274 658 749 [email protected] No and they contribute to an awesome community. Thank you I support the the 20year leases for the tongaporutu Baches, continuing the lease of these baches can only be a positive 44 Marie Connolly 271 DURHAM ROAD UPPER RD 8 INGLEWOOD 011 64 6-756 7673 [email protected] No thing. Do you want to speak to the Council in support of your Postal Address Daytime Phone Number Email submission? Comments Sub NFirst Name Last Name Address 1 Address 2 City Response increase in the cost of holding a lease (I gather the proportional increase proposed is in the order of 70%). I strongly disagree that such a large increase can be justified, on the following grounds: 1) A market rental, if applied, would not take into account a number of restrictions imposed on bach owners, particularly the condition that the baches can only be occupied for a total of 8 months in any year. I would expect that if a market rental is to be applied then should be scaled back accordingly, ie., by 1/3. 2) No acknowledgement is made of the significant contribution that bach owners make to the maintenance and general upkeep of their leasehold sections. Bach owners are responsible for maintaining their own retaining walls, and riverbank erosion would eventually become significant in the absence of this maintenance over the longer term. This is in effect a free service provided by bach owners, sometimes at considerable personal expense. 3) A high lease cost should be reflected in a lower market value for the sections. By way of example, I recall a few years ago a 45 Harley Betts 171 Salisbury St Ashhurst 011 64 6-825 6250 [email protected] No West Coast Lease property at Messenger Terrace Oakura being offered for sale at $150k, far below the market value of an Tongaporutu baches symbolise what a great holiday should be. The baches are well cared for and maintained The baches 46 Bruce Cowley 9 Manukaka Heights New Plymouth 011 64 6-753 4020 [email protected] No are part of the history of Tongaporutu 47 Barbara Wood 384 South Road Rd 4 New Plymouth 011 64 6-751 2523 [email protected] No Beaches are a icon and part of kiwiana, and have a significant heritage value The baches are loved and well cared for and an icon as part of Kiwiana. The Baches have a social & emotional significance 48 Amie Cowley 14e Clinton Street New Plymouth 011 64 21 507 605 [email protected] No to the entrance of Taranaki 49 Brad Raven 14e Clinton Street New Plymouth 011 64 274 808 874 [email protected] No The baches have great historic value & are classic Kiwi icons. We love them 50 Dion Cowley 6 Tasman Street Vogeltown NP [email protected] No I support the proposed lease and associated conditions. 51 Blair Cowley [email protected] We have had many great times at tongaporutu with friends and family. The beaches are very iconic and part of our 52 Glenys Waters 7 Bishop Road R D 2 New Plymouth 011 64 6-755 0730 [email protected] No heritage. We do wish to continue to visit with our children and grandchildren with it in its present quaint environment.
Quaint & colourful, typical Kiwi baches They are an attractive row of colourful baches which give a welcoming outpost of Taranaki. The baches are loved and well cared for. Icon & part of Kiwiana. Baches have a social & emotional significance. Baches are an integral part of the community. Baches are a Taranaki icon with significant heritage value. Tongaporutu baches symbolise what a good Kiwi holiday is all about. Tongaporutu is a relatively undeveloped coastal holiday settlement where we all can continue to enjoy the simple pleasures of river, beach & sea for generations to come. Those beautiful coloured row of iconic baches have heritage value. They are a welcoming entrance to the Taranaki District. During the summer, the Tongaporutu Bach owners run a Summer Events Activities Program which is popular with the local community and holiday makers. Tongaporutu is a beautiful tranquil place which we love to enjoy. We have so many 53 Lisa-Marie Lines 66 Ruskin Road Newlands Wellington 011 64 27 564 0941 [email protected] No treasured memories. The baches have great historic value & are classic Kiwi icons. 54 Colleen Connolly 20 Victoria Road New Plymouth New Plymouth 011 64 6-758 4613 [email protected] No I am very happy to support the council with 20yr lease for the baches. My parents have owned our Bach since 1984, please now that I have a 5 year old son could the bach leases be made back to 30 years. "Tonga", as we affectionally call it, is a special treasure for us and the many friends who have over the years 55 Catherine Bovey 12 Whakamaro Road RD 1 Taumarunui 3991 011 64 7-895 5064 [email protected] No stayed there and experienced some real New Zealand icons. 56 Danny Brown 42 Amaru Rd One Tree Hill Auckland 011 64 21 209 0905 [email protected] No 100% passionate support for the extension of the bach leases My wife and I would love to support the Twenty year lease proposal for Tongaporutu baches.. We recon so many peoples lives will be better for it. That's the nature of the bach thing, it's not just about individual bach owners, it's about extended family and friends and generally giving people the chance to make quality connections. And that's something that is 57 Rob & Neecey Baker 28 Frank Wilson Terrace Welbourn New Plymouth 4312 011 64 6-757 2760 [email protected] No constantly under threat in our society.Cheers. I would like to see the leases extended to a 30 year lease. I first went to Tongapurutu in the ear;y 60's as my Aunty and Uncle had a batch there, a wonderful place to visit. I have since taken my children there as my Sister and her husband now own a batch there, they have enjoyed each holiday they have had there and can't wait to go back again. My son who now resides in London was home for a short visit last year and one of the places he really wanted to go to was Tongapurutu and that was during the winter. I can't wait to take my grandchildren to Tongapurutu for them to experience what we have 58 Helen Tweeddale 863 SH3, Marangai RD 2 Wanganui 011 64 6-342 6627 [email protected] No experienced as a family over the last 50 years. 59 Geoffrey Saxby 156 Mangorei Road New Plymouth 011 64 6-758 4190 [email protected] No I would like to leases for the baches to be continued for the 20 years (longer would be preferable). I believe the baches have a historical value that is a benefit to future generations. The bach owners also help maintain the river area through 60 Peter Mulcahy 20 Onepoto Road Hauraki Auckland 011 64 9-486 2399 [email protected] No the retaining walls and maintainence of the baches.
I support the proposal that the 20year lease be granted to the bachs at Tongaporutu. These baches are an asset to the area.the owners look after the area and often help out the travelling public when they have problems in there travels e.g. keys looked in cars,medical assistance,mechanicl problems and many other problems the may happen on a trip. The batches are iconic and quite unique as has been recognized by the historic places trust ,many people stop to take photos of 61 Lou Briggs 122b Heta Road Highlands Park New Plymouth 011 64 6-758 2529 [email protected] No these batches because of there quirky appeal. It would be a huge lost to the area if these baches were to go These baches have a great historic value and kiwi icon - you know you are home when you drive down that hill and see the 62 Wendy Johnstone 496 Devon Street New Plymouth 011 64 21 152 1247 [email protected] No river and the well kept baches - if these baches could talk the history would be invaluable.. Keep them there.
I support the Council proposal to grant new ground leases over the bach sites at the Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve. The terms and conditions proposed are a "win win" to all parties - to the public, to Council and ratepayers and to the bach leasees. The 20 year term will ensure the protection and maintenance of the river edge through the leasees maintaining the properties. It will ensure the continuity of the enthusiastically received Tongaporutu Summer Events Programme run by the Bach Leasees for the general public. It will maintain a small and much loved piece of classic New Zealand built form as recognised by the NZ Historic Places Trust. That wonderful picture postcard view of the baches from the highway coming and going from New Plymouth will be preserved for another generation. The bach leases will continue to provide a useful 63 Jenny Goddard 17 Frank Wilson Terrace Welbourn New Plymouth 011 64 6-757 2620 [email protected] Yes income stream to New Plymouth District Council. WIN WIN
I am the fourth generation of my family to call Tongaporutu my favourite place in New Zealand. It holds many special memories for me, and I one day hope to bring my own children to our bach to enjoy the idyllic childhood I enjoyed. I completely support the NPDC proposal to issue new ground leases to the 26 bach sites for a 20 year term commencing 1 64 Margot Mulcahy 20 Onepoto Road Hauraki Auckland 011 64 21 344 427 [email protected] No April 2015, and commend the Council’s processes that it has diligently gone through to get to this favourable proposal. Do you want to speak to the Council in support of your Postal Address Daytime Phone Number Email submission? Comments Sub NFirst Name Last Name Address 1 Address 2 City Response I support the proposal to keep the leases for the bachs at Tongaporutu. These bachs are a surviving piece of Kiwiana and are responsible for keeping Tongaporutu on the map. They are an integral part of the community and are an asset to the area.It has been recognised by the Historical Trusts Board and has historical significance.The bachs attract people to the area especially the traveling public.The bach holders work together to keep the area as free from rubbish as possible so 65 Caroline Briggs 122B Heta Road Highlands Park 4312 New Plymouth 011 64 6-759 9911 [email protected] No everyone can enjoy our green clean image been living there for 25 years. I travel down to Oakura roughly a dozen times per year. At all hours of the day and night. (varying from 8pm and at midnight on some occasions) We all know that reception is minimal/non existence in these areas on the Highway. That is why I am so grateful for knowing that if i were to brake down or have car troubles or come across a crash (other than the Mokau area) that there is a high possibility of people staying/living in there baches to help with some assistance. Please keep these baches! The beaches. Having residents and bach owners along the Tongaporutu River allows visitors to stop and ask questions of the incoming/ outgoing tides and water conditions. Especially since Venture Taranaki promotes the "3 sisters" as one of the major 'to do' while visiting. What if someone swimming were to get in trouble and there were no baches. no people? There's minimal reception and people would have to travel, back to the carpark, then an extra 1km back up the river, then across the busy highway then to the houses for some assistance. That's 66 Rebecca Cowley 27 Malibu Key Papamoa Tauranga 011 64 22 468 1030 [email protected] Yes a long time waiting to go get help. Please keep the Bach's! The baches are iconic! There is so much history there. 67 Arlene Hewett 63 A Karina Road Merrilands New Plymouth 011 64 6-758 3364 [email protected] No The Tongaporutu Leases should be renewed, they are part of our heritage. Please renew these leases for the 26 bach owners, they truly love this area and are proud to look after an iconic slice of 68 Merrin Brace 94 Wharekauri Road Urenui [email protected] No New Zealand.
We fully support the issue of new ground leases over baches -Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve for the next 20 years. This is supported by the above family at the above address - Roger and Caroline Teague, Georgia Teague, Claudia Teague, 69 Caroline Teague 48 Rochfort Road Havelock North Hastings 011 64 27 243 5078 [email protected] No Harriet and Shaun Harrex. Also Adrienne Morton of Mary Doyle Village, Villa 20, 3 Karanema Drive, Havelock North. We support the option of 20 year leases to enable the residents to continue enjoying their lifestyle in this beautiful part of 70 Phillip Alles 172 Heta Road New Plymouth 011 64 21 206 8693 [email protected] No Taranaki. 71 Harry Greig [email protected] I support the renewal of leases for this distinctive area. It provides a great entry point into North Taranaki and reflects our 72 Andrew Carr 28 Ngakoti Street Urenui 4375 011 64 21 897 331 [email protected] No history of coastal recreation.
I totally support the Tongaporutu baches. They're a lovely vista along the estuary and enable so many families and kids to enjoy their holidays. The Tongaporutu community spirit is something Taranaki can be really proud of. The way that everyone looks out for each other and kids have the opportunity to explore NZ's coastal wilderness safely and be involved in fun 73 Rowan Dixon [email protected] No events. It's something I hope generations of Kiwi kids are able to enjoy and show their friends and the tourists that visit. 74 Kevin Vile 301 Paraite Road RD3BellBlocl New Plymouth 011 64 6-755 0865 [email protected] No I am in support of the 20yr leases for the Baches at Tongaporutu . The Tongaporutu holiday houses and their occupants have built a unique community that is welcoming to the public and creates a truly special place dear to many generations - young and old. The leases are an important part of protecting and 75 Elizabeth Walker 670 Papamoa Beach Road Papamoa Beach Tauranga 011 64 274 696 512 [email protected] No caring for the Tongaporutu physical and social environment. 76 Rhys Adams 209 Talbott Street Geraldine 011 64 274 815 962 [email protected] No Renew the leases please.
77 Erin Connolly 943 Tuhikaramea Road RD10 Hamilton 011 64 27 200 4523 [email protected] No I would love to see the 20 year leases for the bach's of Tongaporutu be put in place. Please make this happen. Thank you. 78 Alistair Gall 231 St Aubyn Street New Plymouth . [email protected] No Support the submission to grant the leases. It's pure kiwi tradition, shame there aren't more like it I support the 20 years leases for the baches, we have been going to the family bach for over 30 years, we have a large 79 Chris Parkinson 88 MacDonald Road Whakatane 011 64 274 343 449 [email protected] No family and now going into the 3rd generation of children enjoying quality of family life there. I support the 20 year lease for the baches, we enjoy quality family holidays there with whanau, our tamariki and mokos are 80 Robert Parkinson 88 MacDonald Road Whakatane 011 64 274 343 030 [email protected] No able to get out of the city to enjoy a relaxing time without all the modern day stressess the reserve (ie, the areas not occupied by the baches) to meet existing and future public use requirements. I note that it is proposed that the lease be terminable (with six months notice) if the Council considers that the leased land is not being sufficiently used or that the land is required for the purposes of public recreation. This would provide sufficient protection of public interests if, during the term of the lease, there is any significant change in use requirements. The baches are considered to have heritage value and have been classified a Historic Area under the Historic Places Act 1993. Section 17(2)(b) of the Reserves Act 1977 states that: Where scenic, historic, archaeological, biological, geological, or other scientific features or indigenous flora or fauna or wildlife are present on the reserve, those features or that flora or fauna or wildlife shall be managed and protected to the extent compatible with the principal or primary purpose of the [recreation] reserve... Given that the baches do not presently impinge on public use needs, the issuing of new leases will enable the 81 Philip Cleaver 77a Sutherland Road Melrose Wellington 011 64 274 202 418 [email protected] No protection of the historical value that the baches represent. The previous lease was for a period of 10 years. I agree with I support the proposal to grant new leases for the baches on the Tongaporutu Recreation Reserve. These buildings are 82 Patricia Glensor 41A View Road Houghton Bay Wellington 011 64 4-387 4374 [email protected] No classic examples of the traditional Kiwi bach, and they should be maintained and preserved for the future. I fully support the issuing of leases to the leasehold Bachs at Tongaporutu. I was also pleased to see The New Plymouth District Council is considering issuing 20 year leases, which is great, this will give Bach owners confidence to spend money on maintenance, as the 10 years comes around quick enough. This is a delightful spot and the Bachs perched on the river 83 Joanne Sanderson P O Box 194 Urenui 011 64 27 616 6403 [email protected] No is truely iconic to New Zealand Thank You Jo Tongaporutu is a beautiful example of the traditional kiwi bach. When travelling we enjoy taking a break there. They are one 84 Brendan La Franchie 7 Montana Place New Plymouth 011 64 6-758 2466 [email protected] No of the many assets to the Taranaki experience. I am in full support of these leases being renewed. The Sanderson family, a family that I have grown up with, has a bach in this area and has spent so many wonderful years at their bach and it is a major part of their memories as a family. I would 85 Laura Keenleyside 53b Ascot Road Mount Maunganuu 011 64 27 820 3142 [email protected] No be devestated to see their lease not be renewed. One of these batches has been in the family for years. There is a great deal of history for these people, and it would be a 86 Janet Blaauw 1146 Number 3 Road Te Puke 011 64 7-573 5116 [email protected] No shame for new generations of children to not have the chance to share this history. I support the proposal. Do you want to speak to the Council in support of your Postal Address Daytime Phone Number Email submission? Comments Sub NFirst Name Last Name Address 1 Address 2 City Response
Tongaparutu is a special place. Without the iconic bach's it won't be the same. The value they bring to the area would be hard to replace. There is strong community present and the sense of belonging the family's bring to the area keeps the place alive. Without this, visitors and guests may not show the same respect of the surrounding area. With community, comes knowledge. The family's find themselves acting as guides for visitors. Passing on stories and valuable advice that enhances the experience and often keeps people safe. The area is full of hazards, including the bar crossing, cliff faces and strong tides! There is always a visitor asking about launching a boat, navigating the bar, fishing spots and walking. The presence of the each family Bach does not inhibit the public from visiting. They increase the likelihood of people visiting by providing a safe environment and a sense of security. There's always someone around. Without the Bach's what remains 87 Toby Dixon [email protected] No is a river bank requiring maintenance, a road subject to erosion and all of the above lost.
The current test for the retention of the Bach leases is " do the public have sufficient public reserve amenity in the region as of now and into the future" I would argue that retaining the Tongaporutu Bach's enhances this test on the basis that it's not only the Bach owners that benefit from them but the public at large. Each year, at least 80% of the Bach's are either rented or loaned to significant numbers of extended family and the wider public for recreational purposes. Because the leases include Bach owner responsibility for the maintenance of the sea walls and leased land the reserve amenity is well 88 Murray Dixon 32 Kaitake Rd RD4 New Plymouth 011 64 6-752 7770 [email protected] No maintained (with little or no cost to the council), to provide the wider community with a "let's Go" recreational reserve area. Tongaporutu holds a special place for our family. We have many fond memories of holidaying there with family/friends when our children were young and recently. Tongaporutu provides a place to have a real Kiwi holiday. Please let the baches stay 89 Sanger Sue And Gary 47A Dorset New Plymouth 011 64 274 138 022 [email protected] No to carry on this Kiwi icon for future generations to come. 90 Brenden Axbey 107 Taipari Street Maungatapu Tauranga 011 64 7-544 4026 [email protected] No Please accept my submission in support of lease renewal. These baches are an integral part of New Zealand history and should at all costs be able to remain. I agree to the extension 91 George Gardiner 29 Tainui St Welbourn New Plymouth 4312 011 64 274 808 053 [email protected] No of the leases and sincerely hope that this will prevail. George Gardiner 92 Sue Radcliffe 51 Moki Road Uruti Taranaki 011 64 6-752 6805 [email protected] No Support Renewal Of Leases 93 Ryan Sanderson 827 Hilderthope-pukeuri Road RD.7.H Oamaru 011 64 21 807 388 [email protected] Yes I support the renewal of the tonagporutu bach lease's and also having the lease's extended from 10 to 20 years. 95 Lyall Sanderson P.o Box 194 Urenui New Plymouth 011 64 27 339 9994 [email protected] No Tongaporutu is an wicked place. 96 Jadyn Keene P.O Box 51 Urenui New Plymouth [email protected] No I'm in favor in keeping 20 year leases on the bachs. 97 Julie Mulcahy 20 Onepoto Road Hauraki Auckland 011 64 9-486 2399 [email protected] No I request the leases be the maximum available. 1 ITEM C
OPEN SPACE, SPORT AND RECREATION STRATEGY PREPARED BY: Anna Crawford (Senior Recreation Planner) TEAM: Strategy APPROVED BY: Liam Hodgetts (Group Manager Strategy) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 16 September 2015 FILE REFERENCE: DM 6657877
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is the adoption of the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered the feedback received and all matters raised in the report: a) The New Plymouth District Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy (Appendix One) be adopted. b) The New Plymouth District Play Space Framework (Appendix Three of the Strategy) be adopted. c) The strategic actions for implementation of this strategy be considered and prioritised as part of the development of the implementation plan for the New Plymouth District Blueprint.
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is significant. This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy a) Adopt the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy. b) Do not adopt the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy.
Options 2. New Plymouth District Play Space Framework a) Adopt the New Plymouth District Play Space Framework without formal consultation. b) Adopt the New Plymouth District Play Space Framework as a draft for consultation with the community.
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COMPLIANCE The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are Affected persons members of the public from across the New Plymouth District.
Recommendation This report recommends option 1a and 2a for addressing the matter. Long-Term Plan / Yes, the strategic actions towards implementation of this strategy will Annual Plan be included in the Blueprint Implementation Plan which will impact Implications future Annual Plans and Long Term Plans. Significant Policy and Plan No Inconsistencies
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Between November 2014 and March 2015 the Council consulted on the draft Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy. This report assesses feedback received on the draft strategy during this period and feedback received to the Long Term Plan and Blueprint processes.
Overall the feedback to the strategy was positive. Some amendments are recommended as a result of specific feedback, which have been included in the strategy document presented for adoption in this report.
BACKGROUND Development of the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy The need for a more strategic approach to open space was identified in the Coastal Strategy in 2006. The Council resolution to develop a strategy followed the development of a Sports Park Management Plan in 2012 during which local funding trusts submitted requesting the Council to prepare a strategy which would help decisions for sport and recreation.
The strategy contains six key goals that are intended to achieve the vision of ‘Great spaces and places for an active and healthy community’ within the district for the next 30 years. Each of the goals sets out what the Council’s intended level of service and strategic direction will be for that particular goal. Each of the goals have specific objectives which target key areas that the strategy will focus on.
The key messages from the strategy, which were used during the draft strategy consultation, are: • Articulates the Council’s role to facilitate good recreation and open space outcomes for the District. • Provides a consistent approach for open space, (including accessibility, usability and design) sport and recreation for the next 30 years. • Opportunities to acquire/dispose of open space and potentially assets.
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• Provides for the enhancement of connectivity and use of open space. • Make open space usable and accessible for the community. • Work collaboratively to achieve biodiversity and cultural heritage outcomes in our open spaces • Opportunities for improving and enhancing recreational activities.
Feedback and Key Amendments 43 formal pieces of written feedback were received to the draft strategy. This feedback is summarised in Appendix Two, Table One, along with officer’s comments and details of amendments which have been made to strategy and are recommended for adoption. Recommended changes to the strategy are in red in the document. Below is a summary of the main feedback themes and key amendments by goal.
Goal 1 – Our spaces are appropriately located
Feedback 1 There was general support for every household being within 10 minutes of a neighbourhood park.
Recommended amendments 1 No amendments to the objectives for this goal are recommended, with only two minor changes to the maps within the goal to identify two further pieces of potential open space over supply – a small piece which is an extension of road reserve on Roto Street and a grazing reserve on Nadine Stanton Drive.
Goal 2 – Our spaces make it easy to exercise, play, socialise and relax
Feedback 2 The majority of people did not support the idea of reducing the overall number of play spaces in the district and increasing the quality of destination play ground. Feedback emphasised that local play playgrounds are important for ease of access.
Recommended amendments 2 It is recommended that the statement of “Increase the quality of destination play spaces and rationalise “under-utilised” play spaces” under objective 2.3 (page 26) is deleted and replaced with “Maintain a network of destination, community and neighbourhood play spaces as outlined in the New Plymouth Play Space Framework”. A Play Space Framework has been prepared as part of reporting back on this strategy and is attached as Appendix Three to the strategy. This Play Space Framework sets out what the network of play spaces looks like, places the existing play spaces into categories, and provides location and development guidelines as well as proposing some future changes. This report recommends that the framework is adopted without further consultation as the views of the community have been consider in its development and any changes will be consulted with local community at the time of implementation. This is discussed further in the options section.
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Decisions on timing of implementation of the plan will be dependent on decisions made as part of future annual and long term plan processes. The Council currently has an annual budget for the replacement of playgrounds and in many cases the proposed changes such as relocation can be prioritised within this budget based on existing asset condition. Two new playgrounds are proposed, one which will be funded by financial contributions and the other which will need to be considered as part of a future Long Term Plan process.
Feedback 3 Several organisations gave feedback relating to stormwater management and implications of low impact design. Specific requests were made to ensure cultural and biodiversity values are considered when design is undertaken. The District Health Board also requested reference to water quality which is also impacted by stormwater management.
Recommended amendments 3 Amendments to statement 3 under objective 2.1 is recommended to acknowledge stormwater management design consider cultural and biodiversity values with an aim of improving water quality.
Feedback 4 Officers from other district Councils’ in the region, together with the Taranaki Regional Council expressed a desire to see more reference to partnership opportunities in the strategy and potential cross boundary pathway development.
Recommended amendments 4 Amendments have been made to the shared pathway map to show the Taranaki Traverse opportunity and a statement about the traverse. The potential regional partnership has been included under objective 2.4 on page 27.
Goal 3 - Recreation and open space contributes to community identity, vibrancy and sense of place
Feedback 5 A number of ideas were provided to improve community ownership of open spaces and are summarised in Appendix Two.
Recommended amendments 5 These ideas will be considered further as part of the development of the implementation plan.
Goals 4 – Facilities encourage ease of participation and maximise spectator enjoyment
Feedback 6 There was general support in relation to the Council being a leader in locating and planning for future facilities within the district. Other feedback to this goal was sports code specific and a number of changes to the facility table on page 35 were suggested.
Recommended amendments 6 Minor amendments are recommended within the facilities table on page 35 .
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Goal 5 – The delivery of sport and recreation is supported
Feedback 7 The majority of feedback agreed that the objectives and initiatives in Goal 5 will help deliver sport and recreation in the next 30 years. Some specific suggestions were made about how the initiatives are implemented and by whom.
Recommended amendments 7 Minor wording amendments are recommended in goal 5 to acknowledge funders as partners and that decisions around strategic partnerships are subject to a separate process (Objective 5.3). Many of the objectives in this goal will be achieved through partnerships.
Goal 6 – Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected and easy to access
Feedback 8 The majority of feedback received agreed that the strategy covers all aspects of biodiversity and cultural heritage values in open spaces.
A number of organisations were concerned with the wording of goal 6, in particular the words “easy to experience”. Suggestions of alternative wording were made.
Recommended amendments 8 An amendment is recommended for goal 8 to replace “Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected and easy to experience” with “Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected and valued as an experience”.
Integration with District Blueprint Implementation Plan An Implementation plan is currently under development to determine how the Blueprint key directions will be implemented through the Councils planning and delivery. It is not appropriate to adopt the specific actions at this stage in isolation from this work. It is recommended that actions from this strategy are considered when developing the Implementation Plan for the Blueprint. A number of the actions were already identified during the Blueprint process due to the level of integration that was achieved through this work.
The advantage of this plan is that all actions are then matrixed against each other and other key directions to determine priority, delivery mode and where applicable, agency responsibilities.
SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT In accordance with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy, this matter has been assessed as significant because the strategy will provide direction on how the Council will provide and manage recreation and open space for the next 30 years. The Strategy recognises the relationship of Maori to open space, land and water. Community views and preferences have been taken into account through the draft strategy engagement process.
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OPTIONS 1. Open Space Sport and Recreation Strategy
a) Adopt the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy
The final Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy presented for adoption in Appendix One sets out a strategic direction for open space), sport and recreation for the next 30 years and will provide a clear and consistent decision making framework for the Council.
The strategy articulates the Council’s various roles in the areas of sport and recreation, being a ‘facilitator’ in planning for facilities and supporting the delivery of sport and recreation, as opposed to being the primary provider of facilities.
A thorough process has been undertaken in the development and consultation for this strategy, including a peer review lead by Sport NZ and involving a number of industry professionals.
This option is the recommended option.
b) Do not adopt the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy
The status quo will remain in planning for open space, sport and recreation which may result in ad hoc decision making for the community. It would also make it more difficult to plan for open space as part of land development and subdivision consent processes, particularly in the district’s future urban growth areas.
This option is not recommended.
2. New Plymouth District Play Space Framework
a) Adopt the New Plymouth District Play Space Framework without further consultation.
As part of the strategy the idea to “Increase the quality of destination play spaces and rationalise “under-utilised” play spaces” was consulted on. The majority of feedback received did not support this and emphasised the importance of local playgrounds. As a result officers have recommended an amendment to the strategy to acknowledge the provision of a network of Destination, Community and Neighbourhood play spaces. To give clarity to what this network looks like and what play spaces fall into which category, a Play Space Framework has been developed.
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The Framework takes into consideration the community feedback provided about play spaces, through this strategy process and other Council consultation processes. Two playground retirements are proposed in the plan- Cook Street Playground (if a new play space is built on the new Cook Street Marfell Park entrance) and Clovelly Street Playground, both of which will be subject to further consultation processes at the time the retirements are programmed. Several relocations are proposed, some of which have already been consulted on through existing reserve management plans or will be in accordance with the guidelines in the plan. Two new play grounds are proposed where there are known gaps in the network, however the framework does not preclude others being considered in the future.
It is recommended that the framework be adopted without further consultation at this time. The framework will assist the Council in making further decisions about play spaces through Long Term Plan or Annual Plan processes.
b) Adopt the New Plymouth District Play Space Framework as a draft for consultation with the community
Under this option the Council could choose to adopt the Play Space Framework as a draft for consultation.
This option is not recommended. Community views have already been received through the draft strategy. Changes to individual play spaces will be consulted on with the community in accordance with the framework.
The following considerations have been given as part of recommending the adoption of the strategy and play space framework:
Financial and Resourcing Implications The recommendations made with regards to amendments to the draft strategy do not have a significant impact on the actions that are required to implement the strategy. The specific actions and the feedback received in regards to the actions will be considered through the Implementation Plan for the Blueprint.
Overall the Strategy aims to provide better outcomes in the areas of Open Space, Sport and Recreation and will assist with ensuring the Council’s existing expenditure in these areas is efficient and focused towards achieving the goals of the strategy.
The actions required to implement the strategy predominately fall into three categories - • Policy and planning – for example matters that need to be considered as part of the District Plan review to achieve objectives of the strategy. • Capital projects – for example the purchase of the new parks are included in the Long Term Plan and funded from Financial or Development Contributions; and the redevelopment of the Todd Energy Aquatic Centre and TSB Stadium which are included in the 30 year Infrastructure Strategy • Operational actions – many which are existing and ongoing and others such as ‘Adopt a Park’ programme which will need to be prioritised within existing budgets.
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The strategy will form part of the Council’s consideration of projects included within future Long Term Plan and Infrastructure Strategy, and what their funding priority will be, via consideration in the Blueprint Implementation Plan.
Risk Analysis The objectives within the strategy will have an impact on the level of service for open space, sport and recreation within the district.
There is a medium amount of risk if the Council does not adopt the strategy. The status quo would remain i.e. not having an agreed level of service and strategic approach for open space provision, sport and recreation. This could potentially result in ad hoc decision making in relation to open space acquisition/disposal, planning for third party recreational facilities, resource consent decisions and for biodiversity and cultural heritage management in open space.
These risks have the potential to obstruct the Council’s ability to make more strategic and tactical decisions around open space provision.
Community Outcomes The vision and goals of this strategy contribute to the Council’s community outcomes and the Blueprint Key Directions. In terms of community outcomes the strategy contributes specifically towards “Our environment – a clean, green, liveable environment” and “Our Community – an inclusive and connected community”. In terms of the District Blueprint Key Direction the strategy is most strongly linked with the Environment, Communities, Citizens and Destination directions.
Statutory responsibilities In relation to open space and recreation the Council has statutory responsibilities under the Resource Management Act 1991 and the Reserves Act 1977 which provide specific regulations relating to the acquisition, development and management of reserves. The draft strategy does not compromise these statutory responsibilities.
Implications for Maori Development of the strategy has considered known views of Tangata Whenua (related to land and open spaces matters) via the Tangata Whenua Forum and the Blueprint Hui. The strategy acknowledges the important relationship of Maori to open space and has an emphasis on collaborating with mana whenua during the preparation of reserve management plans and on cultural heritage management issues in particular.
Consultation with Tangata Whenua during the strategy process is outlined in the Consultation Report attached as Appendix Two.
Community Views and Feedback Community views and feedback is set out in the background section of this report as well as the Consultation Report and Summary in Appendix Two.
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Recommended Option This report recommends Option 1a) - Adopt the New Plymouth District Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy for addressing the matter and Option 2a) - Adopt the New Plymouth District Play Space Framework without formal consultation.
APPENDICES Appendix One: New Plymouth District Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy (Separate Document)
Appendix Two: Consultation report and feedback summary
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Appendix Two
Consultation Report – Draft Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy
The purpose of this report is to summarise the feedback that has been received on the Draft Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy.
The Draft Strategy was released for consultation on 1 November with the feedback period closing on 30 March 2015.
Written Feedback Overall feedback was received from: • 43 persons/organisations via written feedback , • Three submissions to the LTP which were referred to the draft strategy. • Feedback to the Blueprint.
The feedback described above has been summarised with responses provided in the table below.
Key Stakeholder Involvement Key stakeholders were invited to meet with officers to discuss the draft strategy and any feedback they had. The organisations met with were – • Sport Taranaki • Taranaki Regional Council • South Taranaki and Stratford District Councils • Venture Taranaki Trust • Department of Conservation • Taranaki District Health Board • TSB Community Trust
Comments from Venture Taranaki officers included the need to consider open space needs of workers and possible replacement of open space in the western area of the CBD if the Robe Street gardens were redeveloped. They noted that some of the water sports such as rowing were not included in the facilities table – an amendment has been made.
Comments from officers representing Taranaki Regional Council, South Taranaki and Stratford District Councils’ were mainly focused on the desire to see more joined up thinking and connections in the strategy. Discussions about the Taranaki Traverse and Pouakai Crossing are also relevant to this strategy and amendments have been made to the strategy document to acknowledge the regional partnership work underway, and that some of the opportunities may cross into other districts.
Comments from DOC officers included it was important to ensure that strategy promoted adaptable open spaces and demographics continued to be a consideration.
Other organisations that officers met with have submitted formal feedback which is summarised in table one below.
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Regional Sports Organisations Regional Sports Organisations (RSO) are regionally focused not for profit code specific sports organisations, for example Netball Taranaki or Central Football. These organisations are well placed to take a region and district wide view of the situation for a sports code.
These organisations are important stakeholders for this strategy, and officers’ made two presentations to RSO Forums and offered to meet individually with RSO’s to discuss specific sports codes.
A number of RSOs have provided written feedback. Other discussions have primarily related to goal 4 and ensure accuracy with the facilities table. Appropriate amendments have been made to this table where needed to accurately reflect the current facility situation.
Tanagata Whenua During drafting of the strategy Tangata Whenua were engaged through the Tangata Whenua Forum, with particular focus on goal 6.
The strategy acknowledges the important relationship of Maori to open space and has an emphasis on collaborating with mana whenua during the preparation of reserve management plans and on cultural heritage management issues in particular.
Once released for consultation a copy of the draft strategy was sent to all iwi, hapu and marae groups in the district.
As part of the consultation on the District Blueprint two hui were held in April at Owae Marae at Waitara and Oakura Pa. These hui provided an opportunity for matters to be raised related to the draft strategy. Feedback from these hui included:
− Recognition of coastal environment changes (eg: implications of boulder movement and downstream effects on erosion. − Need to maintain the cultural significance of rivers (eg: Waitara). − Recognise natural values of streams through stormwater management. − Support for cycling. Let’s Go should be coming to Waitara. − Get more events into local communities (eg: not just festival of lights).
Social Media Questions Feedback was also encouraged through social media with regular postings regarding the strategy consultation questions. A total of nine posts were done over a four month period promoting the consultation and encouraging responses to the consultation questions. Each post was seen by between 400 and 2000 people, however very few relevant comments were received directly on the Facebook page. The question about play spaces generated the most comments including -
“would be good to make them different from each other” “Quality over quantity and how about local made as well most of the off the shelf mass produced playgrounds suck. The old school ones were local grown a way cooler, Albeit a few h&s issues”
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“Having a coffee with friends this morning the comment was made that the kids playground at pukekura park doesn't have enough seating for grandparents etc & more specifically not enough shade areas” “maybe if we had a council who spent rate payers money prudently instead of importing exotic expensive playground equipment from Germany for example, then quantity and quality could both be achieved”
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Person/ Organisation Providing Matter/Summary of Feedback Comments and Recommendation Feedback
Feedback # Introduction- Section 2 29. TSB TSB Community Trust suggest enhancements to section two of the draft strategy and Agreed. The strategy has been amended to better Community the way the Council considers partnerships to better recognise major funders as reflect this and identify Sport New Zealand as a key Trust partners. Also identify that Sport New Zealand is not listed on Key Partners page (8- partner given the significant funding role for regional 9). sport organisations. The Council is currently developing an enhanced way of reflecting and valuing partnerships with external organisations. Goal 1 – Our Spaces Are Appropriately Located Do you think that a walk of no more than 10 minutes to a neighbourhood open space is about right? 1. Kim Sowman Support for 10 minutes walk to neighbourhood open space Noted. 2. Francis Support – accessible playgrounds important. Noted. Douglas Memorial College 3. Manukorihi Support. Noted. Intermediate School 4. Omata School Support. Noted. 5. William Support. Noted. Johnson 6. Sarah Davey Support. Doesn’t want it to be any further. Noted. 7. Energy City Support. Noted. Harriers 8. Friends of Support. Noted. Pukekura Park
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10/CTP3 Judith Hellyar Believes that a walk of 15 minutes is reasonable. Noted, general support for 10 minute walk has been Also considers the Council is having trouble maintaining existing, without creating received and it is recommended 10 minute walk level more parks. Suggests selling the Clovelly Street Reserve and the land behind Somerset of service is adopted. The strategy identifies reserve Street houses (part of Pukekura Park). land that is considered to be an oversupply, which includes Clovelly St Reserve. The Council will need to consider the sale of this reserve as part of a separate process. The land behind Somerset St houses is not recommended for sale consideration as it is part of Pukekura Park and provides an important buffer between the residential houses and the park forest. 11. Andrew Brock Support. Noted. 12. Bishop’s Support. Noted. Action Foundation 13. Conrad Support. Noted. Pattison (NZ Aboricultural Assn Inc.) 17. Hamish Crimp Support. Noted. 19. Waitara Support. Noted. Surfcasting Club 20 Brian Beer Support. Noted. 21 Kaitake Support with consideration given to the connection with end users and how barriers to The goal of a 10 minute walk to a neighbourhood Community that 500m access are addressed, i.e. crossing of highways. Supports development of a open space is currently reported on as crow flies Board secondary network of movement through walkways and cycleways. however at a local level specific access and design criteria area considered together with barriers such as main roads and access to non-council open space such as schools. Walkway networks are considered in addition to neighbourhood open spaces and having an easily accessible pathway network is a goal of this strategy.
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23. Teresa Gordon Considers a 500m walk should be a maximum, ideally less. Also considered that With or without school grounds being considered in school grounds should not be used in the calculation for Highlands Park areas as the Highlands Park, the strategy identifies an open space school is growing and losing space to more classrooms. gap in Highlands Park as an “area of interest”. One option for improving this is the redevelopment of undeveloped park land into a neighbourhood open space. 26. Waitara Alive Supports the need for an open recreation/neighbourhood space in what is referred to as Noted. A consultation process would occur as part of the eastern gap (across State Highway 3, Waitara). decision making on the disposal of open space. Highlights that any potential oversupply of open space areas would need to be consulted on before decisions to sell excess open spaces are made.
27. New Plymouth Considers the current standard of 400m should be aimed for as for families with young The current standard referred to in this feedback is Injury Safe children 500m can take longer than 10 minutes. that which was in previous Long Term Plans – Trust “Percentage of population living within 400m of a public park or reserve”. This measure was not as meaningful as the one proposed as it included undeveloped open space and bush reserves. The 500m level of service proposed for neighbourhood open spaces is considered industry best practice. 28. New Plymouth Support within towns. However consider for some iconic spaces ie Barrett Domain, Noted. Objective 3.3 is to build partnerships with Mountain Lake Mangamahoe these need to be promoted better and further enhance the existing community groups with a focus of looking after Bikers relationship with community groups and sports clubs that use these parks. public spaces, it is recommended this objective is amended to include “promote public participation and awareness”
Agree that some current open spaces should be sold to finance the purchase of more Provision for future purchase of land associated with relevant land that meets with future needs, wants and expectations of the New the mountain to sea pathway (also known as the Plymouth district; an example would be to purchase the land between Burgess Taranaki Traverse) is provided in the District Plan. Park/Meeting of the Waters and Lake Mangamahoe. This land would help achieve the Recognition in the strategy of possible future proposed mountain to sea pathway, assist with development of recreation activities opportunities to purchase further lands association and fits with objective 2.4. The NP Mountain Bikers consider this purchase should be with recreation and to strengthen the Taranaki progressed with urgency. Traverse is recommended with an additional point under objective 1.1 acknowledging this. Timing of land purchase is subject to the Council’s Long Term Plan.
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29. TSB Strongly suggests building partnerships at a regional level is necessary and the trust Sport Taranaki is now leading a project to develop a Community would like to be included in the development of a regional strategy for sport and Regional Facilities Strategy. This project is the Trust recreation facility and open space provision. subject of a separate report for the Council to consider. It is noted that TSB Community Trust are a partner in this project.
Suggests it is important that the needs of rural, isolated and deprived communities are Agreed, the 10 minute walk provision guideline for taken into account in the planning of spaces and outlines reasons for this importance. neighbourhood open spaces is intended for residential settlements in rural communities also. Accessibility and demographics are matters listed for consideration in the draft play space plan. Trust requests further information regarding the Waitara Open Space Provision and any perceived impact this might have on the Clifton Park Development Project Officers will discuss this directly with the Trust. 30. New Plymouth Support. Noted. Riding for the Disabled 31. Anne Collins Support. Noted. 33. TDHB Support. Noted. 34. Central Support. Noted. Football 36. Kidsafe Support and consider communities known to have less access to their own private Noted. Currently for most parts of New Plymouth Taranaki Trust transport. A higher priority should be given for achieving this standard than those this standard is already met with the main gaps being living in less deprived areas. in eastern CBD and Highlands Park. 39. North Taranaki Support. Noted. Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society CTP1 Kevin Requests the Council leave recreation reserves alone, with specific example of Fitzroy Goal 1 includes maps of open space gaps/areas of Barriball Golf Course. Suggests there should be better utilisation of the area between Peringa interest and areas of oversupply. The Fitzroy Golf Park and the golf course, with a sports hub incorporating a number of sports codes. Course is not currently considered an area of oversupply. The area is leased to the Fitzroy Golf Club until 2023 and as part of the blueprint implementation plan consideration will be given to developing a wider master plan for the area including
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Peringa Park. The strategy promotes Sportsville hubs and this will be a consideration as part of a master plan. Goal 2 - Our Spaces Make It Easy To Exercise, Play, Socialise And Relax Proposal to reduce the overall number of play spaces and increase the quality of destination playgrounds 1 Kim Sowman Does not support. Would like playgrounds that are able to be accessed without car Recommend removal of the statement “Increase the journey. quality of destination play space and rationalise “underutilised” play spaces” and replace with “Maintain a network of destination and neighbourhood play spaces as outlined in the New Plymouth Play Space Framework” (presented back as part of this report). 2. Francis Does not support. Consider the provision of a range of spaces for local situation See response above. Douglas important. Memorial College 3. Manukorihi Does not support. Not enough spaces as is. Upgrade all spaces currently available. See response above. Intermediate School 4. Omata School Retain and enhance the smaller, local play spaces. See response above. 5. William Supports status quo. See response above. Johnston 6. Sarah Davey Does not support. Outlines importance of local playground for people without cars. See response above.
7. Energy City Considers play space provision related to 10 minutes walk to a neighbourhood space The neighbourhood open space level of service Harriers and that destination playground become overburdened. described in goal 1 relates to a type of space in a neighbourhood that people can kick a ball on, have a picnic or sit and relax. While some neighbourhood open spaces have playgrounds or play spaces on them, not all do. If the Council was to reduce the number of play space, physical equipment and surfacing would be removed but in most cases the land would remain as a neighbourhood open space.
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8. Friends of The Friends consider priority should be in preventing discharge to the sea and instead A low impact design approach referenced in the Pukekura Park focus on returning water to the ground, reducing run-off and preventing pollution from strategy includes returning water to ground which is stormwater. also the Council’s preference in urban development under the District Plan, however it is acknowledged this is not always possible. An amendment to the strategy is recommended adding the words “Stormwater design considers cultural and biodiversity values and aims to improve water quality”. The District Plan review will also address this matter, with consideration of the recommendations in the Beca Pukekura Park Study. 9. Bell Block The BBPS agrees with objectives of goal 2, particularly 2.2. The BBPS state that the The Council acknowledged this facility as part of the Community Bell Block community requires an aquatic facility that is accessible to all ages, wider aquatic network and currently assists with Pool Society cultures and abilities and that the Bell Block Community Pool fulfils this. The BBPS operational funding. Recognition of this facility is Inc (BBPS) request acknowledgement and support of its role in fulfilling this need. best included in Goal 3 of the strategy. See comments below. 10. Judith Hellyar Believes the overall number of play spaces need to be reduced and suggests they are The suggested strategy of reducing number of play sold off for housing where suitable to reduce Council debt. Suggests Clovelly Street spaces in the draft strategy relates to the Park as an example of one that could be sold. equipment/facilities in the park and not the park itself. However, the strategy does identify open spaces that are potentially surplus and includes Clovelly Park as one of these open spaces. 11. Andrew Brook Does not support – considers we need to make it easy for people to access. See response at top of section recommending amendment. 12. Bishops Does not support – considers this to be inconsistent with objectives in goal 1 and that See response at top of section recommending Action ease of access to small ‘fun’ spaces is more important than access to a few ‘high amendment. Foundation quality’ spaces.
13. Conrad Supports, considers that it is a good strategy to have more quality destination See response at top of section recommending Pattison (NZ playgrounds. amendment. Aboricultural Assn Inc.)
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15. Nga Motu The society is concerned about the implications of “low impact design for stormwater” A low impact design approach referenced in the Marine and suggests priority should be in preventing discharge to sea. They suggest adding strategy includes returning water to ground which is Reserve some wording on page 25 – “ensure that design incorporates cultural and biodiversity also the Council’s preference in urban development Society values” under the District Plan, however it is acknowledged this is not always possible. An amendment to the strategy is recommended adding the words “Stormwater design considers cultural and biodiversity values and aims to improve water quality”. The District Plan review will also address this matter, with consideration of the recommendations in the Beca Pukekura Park Study.
The society also request the strategy is particularly clear on – - Not increasing public access to the beaches An action of the strategy which will be considered in - Clearing undergrowth and ‘messy’ areas to promote neatness, or opening up the implementation plan is to review existing beach areas for views, often results in the destruction of habitat and food supply for access and identify formal access points and ensuring organisms. these are appropriately identified. Additional words are recommended under objective 2.2. Ecological impacts are considered as part of new developments and the specific objectives for the area as identified in reserve management plans.
17. Hamish Crimp Considers it to be a worthwhile idea however the distance from the destination See response at top of section recommending playground should be taken into account and smaller playgrounds which are a long amendment. way from destination playgrounds should be retained. 19. Waitara Does not support reduction – considers destination play spaces do need upgrading. See response at top of section recommending Surfcasting amendment. Club 20. Brian Beer Supports better quality playgrounds and considers some of the smaller, little used play See response at top of section recommending areas could be shut down to make good ones better. amendment. 21. Kaitake Objective 2.1 - Feedback provided on the many roles of a neighbourhood open space Noted, this can be considered as part of developing Community in a community. Considers an open space best practice design guide is an excellent the design guide. Board objective as long as it is flexible enough to accommodate the dissimilar needs of different communities. Suggests it include specific reference to the methodology for establishment of neighbourhood parks and reference to hard and soft surface balance.
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This matter is covered within the Council’s General Objective 2.2 – Considers well thought out approach to considering donation of Polices for Council administered reserves which are amenities from the community is needed to ensure fit with location and design currently under review, providing an opportunity for stronger guidelines on gifting and memorial. Fit with location and good design are important considerations. Objective 2.3 - Support a play spaces plan that may reduce the number of play spaces across the district but increases the quality of play opportunities at new and the other See response at top of section recommending remaining ones. Do not support concept of destination playgrounds if it only means amendment. bigger and better in the larger population bases and requires other communities to lose theirs, and having to access the new models by vehicle.
Objective 2.5 – Supports shared use streetscapes and better design solutions The recently adopted Infrastructure Standard provides for flexibility of streetscape design which is considered at the time of new developments as well as specific projects to redesign existing streets. Reference to the urban design protocol has also been added to the strategy. 23. Teresa Gordon Considers local play spaces are more important than destination playgrounds. See response at top of section recommending amendment. 26. Waitara Alive Supports the two destination parks/play spaces being Marine Park and Clifton Park. Noted. For Marine Park Waitara Alive suggests a number of enhancements. The enhancements at Marine Park are best considered Also supports extending the Coastal Walkway to Waitara. as part of the development of a management plan for the park. Funding for various projects would need consideration as part of a future Long Term Plan Process, including the Coastal Walkway extension to Waitara. 27. New Does not support. See response at top of section recommending Plymouth amendment. Injury Safe Trust 28. New See response at top of section recommending Plymouth amendment. Mountain Bikers
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29. TSB The Trust suggests the Council does not remove play spaces in rural, isolated or See response at top of section recommending Community deprived communities but rather develop them. If the Council is to focus on amendment. Trust destination play spaces, it should ensure safe, low cost public transport at convenient times is available to those destinations. 30. New Does not support. See response at top of section recommending Plymouth amendment. Riding for the Disabled 31. Anne Collins Does not support due to the need to drive to destination play grounds versus being able See response at top of section recommending to run to local playground and pop down for 10 minutes. amendment. 32. Andrew Would like to see the quality of destination playgrounds increased and considers there See response at top of section recommending Larsen should be no reduction in the number of play spaces in the district. amendment. 33. TDBH Does not support reducing overall number of play spaces. Outlines importance of See response at top of section recommending local provision and importance of well designed and safe outdoor play spaces. amendment. 34. Central Does not support. Considers it important that all recreational (non-sporting) facilities See response at top of section recommending Football are local and easily accessed amendment. 36. Kidsafe Does not support. Supports the introduction of new high quality destination See response at top of section recommending Taranaki Trust playgrounds but not at the expense of existing smaller local playgrounds. Outlines the amendment. importance of accessibility. 39. North Does not support, due to the need to travel to destinations. See response at top of section recommending Taranaki amendment. Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society Goal 3 – Recreation And Open Space Contributes To Community Identity, Vibrancy And Sense Of Place Ideas for improving community ownership of open spaces 1. Kim Sowman Provide more picnic tables that make it easier for people to stay and have food. New picnic tables for individual reserves are identified in Reserve Management Plans and funded through the reserve improvement fund in order of priority set annually.
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2. Francis Community involvement great for Te Henui type environment, not appropriate for Agree. The inspections and maintenance of play Douglas Council owned play spaces. spaces is undertaken by suitable qualified persons. Memorial College
3. Manukorihi Engage interest groups. The Strategy includes an objective 3.3 To build Intermediate partnerships with community groups to empower the School public to look after open spaces. Actions related to this objective include developing an ‘Adopt a park’ programme. 4. Omata School Encourage local organisations to use and be more involved in these types of spaces. This is an objective of the strategy and actions are included to support, as above. 6. Sarah Davey Would like to see more opportunities for weekend markets. The Strategy includes an objective 3.1 Recreation and open spaces caters for a diversity of activities that contribute to community identify, vibrancy and sense of place. This includes commercial activities such as markets which are provided and supported in the Commercial Trading in Public Places Policy and Bylaw. 7. Energy City Suggest diversity of activities (i.e. markets, sporting events) and facilities to support There are a number of objectives in the strategy that Harriers open spaces areas (i.e. toilets, water taps, seats). support a diversity of activities on reserves, as well as objectives about good design and accessible amenities. 8. Friends of Concerned that success of events in Pukekura Park should not mistakenly change the Matters specific to the character and future of Pukekura Park character of the park. The friends consider succession planning in the management Pukekura Park are best addressed through review of plan should be undertaken to maintain character. the Pukekura Park Management Plan. 9. Bell Block BBPS agree with objective 3.3, relating to partnerships and seek acknowledgment and Amendment recommended in facility table within Community support of the Council that it is an existing working model, with support from NPDC. goal 4 to acknowledge the Council’s role in Pool Society providing land for the community pool and Inc (BBPS) partnership with operational grant subject to the Long Term Plan . 11. Andrew Brock Considers the Council needs to work in partnership and provide resources and support The strategy actions include a number of initiatives to if it wants the community to take ownership of open spaces. Suggests a number of support community ownership of open spaces ways and reasons for this. including an “Adopt a park” programme. The speed and level to which the Council is able to implement
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these actions is dependent on decisions made as part of the Long Term Plan and prioritisation within the Blueprint Implementation Plan. 12. Bishops Considers that the success of any community ownership will be dependent on how Noted. The Council is a key partner in the Action flexible the Council is prepared to be and the ability to be a genuine partner. Key to Wheelhouse initiative for capacity building and is Foundation success will be: - Council must be committed to building the capacity of community pursuing a Community Match Fund concept to enable leadership and must be willing to resource this; - Council must create simpler and stronger community ownership. The Council is more agile processes surrounding these relationships. They suggest an ideal model currently developing an enhanced way of reflecting would be for the Council to prioritise community ownership and find community and valuing partnerships with external organisations. based organisations who can be resourced to be the community-focused conduits that facilitates the relationship and outcomes. 13. Conrad Suggests improving community ownership needs provision of resources to support Noted. Pattison (NZ programmes, e.g. develop a dedicated specialised role within the Council to do this. Aboricultural Assn Inc.) 15. Nga Motu The Society supports the intent to build partnerships but considers there needs to be a At a high level all the Council proposals are assessed Marine more robust and transparent process for evaluating community values and the impacts against the Council’s Community Outcomes which Reserve a development may have on them. Suggest a change to the ‘implications assessment’ include Our Community and Our Environment. Society for development is needed. Depending on the location of a development proposal more detailed assessments are carried out including ecological assessment and other environmental impact assessment as required under reserve management plans or the District Plan.
Assessments and the level of reporting on developments are dependent on the scale of the development proposed, this is acknowledged in objective 6.2 17. Hamish Crimp Supports the establishment of a ‘friends’ group or an ‘adopt a spot’ programme. Adopt a park programme is included in the strategy Suggests these partnerships could be with schools and businesses. Other ideas – action plan and this will include a document/website. • Document/website detailing how to establish a friends group Management plan consultation is undertaken in • More consultation with residents with formulating management plans accordance with the Reserves Act and is tailored to • More interpretative panels within reserve outlining history/biodiversity different reserve types. Interpretative panels are • Establishment of a community plant nursery considered as part of management plan development.
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A community nursery is not a matter the Council has considered however under this strategy and parks policy it is possible for it to be a community driven initiative. 19. Waitara Considers community will take ownership of their own areas if things are of a good Noted. Surfcasting standard. Club 20. Brian Beer Believes the Council has and should have the role to maintain parks and reserves. Noted. 21. Kaitake Believes OSSRS must provide an appropriate informing structure for future Noted, this is the intention of the strategy and a Community developers and decision makers. number of the objectives within are now being Board considered for incorporation in the District Plan through the District Plan review. 23. Teresa Gordon Community ownership needs to be encouraged with working bees, little games days Noted. Ideas for achieving this objective will be further considered as part of the development of the implementation plan. 24. Okato Pony Request permission be granted to make an improvement; discuss with us how to make Officers will make contact with the Okato Pony Club Club Inc it happen, we then have some ownership of the outcome and ongoing maintenance. to discuss their idea. 25. Waitara Alive Ideas include – user pays systems such as swipe card at boat ramp, commercial Noted. Ideas for achieving the objectives in Goal 3 premises for tourism operators. Also suggest with more community development will be further considered as part of the development resource Waitara Alive could facilitate community partnerships. of the implementation plan. 27. New Resources and funding needed to support improving community ownership. Suggests Noted. The Council’s Community Funding Plymouth the Council look to implement match funding to encourage initiatives and activities. Investment Policy includes provision for the Council Injury Safe Engage with the community in partnerships for the long term so the community does to develop a match funding scheme. Further Trust not feel they will be left carrying the burden. consideration of this is needed as part of the review of this policy in 2016. 28. New Considers NPDC and the New Plymouth Mountain Bike Club can enhance their Officers are continuing discussion with the Mountain Plymouth existing relationship further by working together on a long term strategy for the Bike Club regarding options for future track Mountain management of the mountain bike tracks and walking tracks at Lake Mangamahoe. developments. Bikers 29. TSB The Trust considers the provision and support of community events and community Noted. Ideas to support community events will Community engagement is vital to community vibrancy and well-being and it is important these include public information and tools on running Trust events are accessible. community events that are NPDC regulation specific. Divestment of the Council buildings to community In relation to building partnerships with the community the Trust considers it groups will continue to undergo due diligence imperative that any partnerships are encouraged to empower the public to look after processes.
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open spaces and are sufficiently resourced to do so. The Trust maintains the view that ownership of club buildings should only be encouraged where the club currently has the skills and resources to successfully manage these. 32. Andrew By listening to what the local community want in their own spaces and ensuring that Noted. Some evidence of increased community Larsen they have what they want – subject to practicalities and finance. ownership is observed through people getting involved in preparation of reserve management plans and then the implementation of the actions in the plans through the annual budget for this. 33. TDHB Consider community ownership is more likely to occur for open spaces that are well Agree and noted. Community ownership is linked to used. Also list other factors involves in increased community ownership. use and type of space. 34. Central Central Football believes the quality and continued upkeep of open spaces/facilities Noted. Football are paramount to the community taking ownership.
36. Kidsafe Ensure a good standard of maintenance and a good response time to reports of damage Response times are set as part of the levels of service Taranaki Trust or vandalism. Encourage community to report damage, hazards or injuries. within the Parks Asset Management Plan. Opportunities will be sought to further encourage the community to report damage and hazards. 39. North Suggests support and acknowledge community efforts with open spaces with at least The Council will continue to assist community Taranaki annual consultation and involving community groups in designing the upcoming groups who look after open spaces within available Royal Forest year’s work plan for their local space. resources. An ‘Adopt a park programme’ with toolkit and Bird Have at least one person dedicated to growing community ownership with expertise in and additional guidance is being considered as part of Protection growing and supporting volunteering. the Blueprint Implementation Plan. Society Goal 4 – Facilities Encourage Ease Of Participation And Maximise Spectator Enjoyment Do you think the Council should be a leader in locating and planning for future facilities within the district? 1. Kim Sowman So long as there is consultation with public who are likely to use the spaces. Noted. Consultation on individual proposals is undertaken in accordance with the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy. 2. Francis Yes, consider recreation/play vital and should be shared by community with the Noted. Douglas Council acting and organising on our behalf. Memorial College
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3. Manukorihi Partnerships with Council and interest groups. The Strategy includes an objective 4.3 – Sports Intermediate facilities and resources are shared by sports codes in School open spaces and where possible through partnerships with community groups. 4. Omata School Yes Noted. 5. William Yes. Suggests the Council should be working with organisations such as Sport The Strategy includes an objective 5.3 There is strong Johnston Taranaki on future planning. collaboration with Sport Taranaki, regional sport organisations, clubs and schools to improve the delivery of community sport. This includes the planning for facilities. 6. Sarah Davey Yes, considers this one of the key roles of local government. Noted. 7. Energy City Yes, in response to public opinion. Noted. Harriers 8. Friends of Considers that Pukekura Park Sportsground, Bellringer Pavilion, Pukekura Park The Pukekura Park Sportsground is included in the Pukekura Park Tennis Club and the Bandroom and Zoo should be included in this section. facilities table as a national cricket venue. In the case of tennis it is not recommended all individual clubs are listed. This section in the strategy looks primarily at Sports Facilities and therefore it is not appropriate to include the Bandroom or Zoo however these are identified in the Pukekura Park Management Plan. 9. Bell Block BBPS submits that the Council should consider the Bell Block Aquatic Centre in its It is recommended that Strategy be amended to Community planning for future facilities in the district and that it be included in the facilities table. include “Land continues to be provided for the Bell Pool Society BBPS also ask that they be consulted as part of the District Aquatic Study. Block Aquatic Centre”. Inc (BBPS) The New Plymouth District Aquatic Facility Study was completed in 2013 and includes the Bell Block Aquatic Centre as part of the wider pool network. 10. Judith Hellyar Considers the Council is already a leader in this area. Noted. 11. Andrew Brock Yes, the Council provides the long term plan for the district so must show leadership Noted. in this area. 12. Bishops Considers the Council must retain role as a steward and that an essential part of this Noted. Action role is leadership around facilities. Foundation
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13. Conrad Yes, considers the vision needs to be a collective one but with the Council leading this Noted. Pattison (NZ and working closely with community partners to achieve this. Aboricultural Assn Inc.) 17. Hamish Crimp Considers the Council should set comprehensive guidelines and facilitate location and Noted. As well as the principles and the facilities planning future facilities where necessary. For new subdivisions the onus should fall table in the strategy which guide facility primarily on developers to create the parks and reserves following council guidelines. development, the Council is also likely to participate in the development of a Regional Facility Strategy which will also be a guiding document. Reserves in new growth areas are funded from development and financial contributions. 18. Taranaki Golf Taranaki Golf Association wish to see the presence of a golfing facility within the The statement included in the draft strategy regarding Association New Plymouth City boundary continue (currently Fitzroy Golf Club). Taranaki Golf use of the Golf NZ hierarchy supports collaboration wish to continue to work with the Council and the Fitzroy Golf Club to develop a and adapting golf facilities to meet new trends. golfing hub and consider a move to a ‘sportsville’ facility based around golf may also Development of a master plan for the Fitzroy Golf be an option that could be given serious consideration. Course/wider Peringa Park area is recommended and will be prioritised as part of the Blueprint implementation plan. 19. Waitara Yes, consider that is Council’s job. Noted. Surfcasting Club 20. Brian Beer Yes, considers the Council should make facilities available for local sports groups and Noted. plan for and make parks and reserves available for people.
21. Kaitake In relation to the recommendation from the ‘2011 Oakura Village Recreation and This action and others from the Oakura Village Community Community Facility Study’ to undertake a holistic feasibility for a multi-sport hub in Recreation and Community Facility Study will be Board Oakura; the community board wish for this to occur as soon as possible. considered as part of the development of the Local Area Blueprint for Oakura and the Implementation Objective 4.3/4.4 Supports the development of a regional strategy taking into account Plan. the national facility strategy. Also concerned about limited community access to facilities such as Yarrow Stadium and Pukekura Park cricket ground and considers this Sport Taranaki are currently preparing terms of should be addressed. reference for the development of a Regional Facilities Strategy which will be presented to the Council shortly.
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A review is currently underway for the future strategic direction of Yarrow Stadium. Part of this In regards to the Council being a leader in mapping future facilities, the KCB consider review is considering how increased community use the Council should be a major playing in this regard but are not sure whether it should of the facility can be facilitated. lead all future facility development. Noted. 23. Teresa Gordon Yes, to provide strategic oversight and to avoid duplication. Noted.
Also suggests there should be a regional approach to provision of facilities, working with other Council’s to ensure regional provision of top-level facilities. See row above re Regional Facility Strategy. 24. Okato Pony Good to see equestrians mentioned. Important for horses to be considered on Shared Noted. Club Inc Pathway Networks in Okato area. 25. Pukekura Pukekura Tennis Club supports the vision and goals outlined in this strategy, and The draft strategy identified the two outdoor multi- Tennis Club agrees that the Council has a role to play as the leader in planning for sport and surface courts proposed to be provided as part of the recreation facilities in the district. TSB Stadium Multi-sport redevelopment. The submission indicates that these may not meet needs The Club provides information about existing tennis facilities and their use and identified and therefore it is recommended the identifies two needs that are not currently well met in the district – statement be amended to include “officers will work 1) Outdoor tennis courts for public use and suggest in the short term with the tennis community to understand potential for provision be made for public use tennis courts at Waiwakahio Park tennis at this multi-sport facility”. In the longer term, consider multi-use courts as part of the TSB Stadium project (at least three courts are suggested). A further addition to the table for tennis is 2) Indoor or covered tennis courts/multi-use facility, as a minimum three recommended – “Increased tennis court availability courts with some rain protection. In the longer term suggest a larger indoor of public use will be investigated as opportunities facility could be considered as part of the TSB Stadium Development or a arise”. purpose-built facility adjacent to Pukekura Park Tennis Club. The Council’s policies and plans also allow clubs to initiate their own projects if they wish and make lease applications to the Council for suitable land.
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26. Waitara Alive Waitara Alive state their future vision for facilities as ‘Sharing facilities and This vision is supported and aligned with goals, developing partnerships as the proposed Clifton Park which builds programmed objectives and actions within this strategy. activities across multiple venues in and around Waitara as a collective’
Waitara Alive believes the Council should be part of the leadership equation for the Noted. planning and development of future facilities but that the community should be fully involved and take leadership responsibility for setting the strategic direction of future facilities. Appropriate timing for the development of a local Requests a Blueprint for Waitara is developed. area blueprint for Waitara is currently being considered. 27. New Yes and outline that the trust supports facilities that – improve physical (and therefore Noted. Plymouth mental) wellbeing; - Are able to adapt to changing demographics; - provide the highest Injury Safe levels of social connection and promote well-managed, challenging physical activity. Trust 28. New Yes, and suggests for Lake Mangamahoe this needs to be managed more progressively Noted. Plymouth with future proofing in mind for example development of toilets, wash down area. Mountain Bikers 29. TSB The Trust supports the use of the key principles for assessment of new facility Noted. The Council is a key partner in the Community proposals and suggests that such principles should be regionally devised. Wheelhouse initiative for capacity building and see Trust The Trust suggests that clear community outcomes should be identified at the planning further opportunities to enhance governance skills stage for any facility proposal. development focussing on how to enter into governance and governance mentoring. The Council The Trust supports and encourages the concept of shared facilities and multi-sport are also interested in the investigation of different hubs. The Trust notes that these projects can take a lot of time and resources so in models such as a governance entity, possessing order to be successful they need to be sufficiently resourced with skills as well as professional facility management skills, which could funding. oversee and manage multiple facilities.
32. Andrew Yes. Considers that it is part of the Council’s job to work with the community in Noted Larsen locating and planning for future facilities. Supports sportsville and the Clifton Park community project there.
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33. TDHB Yes. Considers local government has a crucial role to play in creating environments Noted. Objective 2.2 covers accessible amenities and that promote community health and wellbeing. Outlines the aging population and the the consideration of the wide range of users as part of need for age-friendly outdoor green spaces. decisions about provision. 34. Central Yes and considers from a sporting context this should be in partnership with the Officers agree that planning for facilities should be Football Regional Sports Trust and the Regional Sport Organisations. It is important such done in partnership with ongoing needs analysis. In partnerships are formed to ensure optimum placement, use, commercial returns and terms of football it is recommended the facility table longevity. Central Football believes that needs analysis should be ongoing and in in goal 4 be amended to say “Provide input into the terms of football submits a ‘visionary hub for football’ could consolidate football in suitability of a ‘home of football’ regional facility the region and create other opportunities for existing fields. (which may not be on Council owned land).” This recognises the current situation with Council sites being discounted by Central Football as suitable for their ‘home of football’ vision. 35. Taranaki TEN request the following being added to the facilities table and provide further There is a need for a comprehensive master plan to Equestrian details on each in their written feedback – be developed for Hickford Park considering a wide Network • A shared pathway network will be developed at Hickford Park as outlined in range of matters including the rich cultural heritage plans provided. (waahi tapu) and biodiversity in the park. This work • Identify 20ha of land at Hickford Park as an area of interest for an equestrian is due to commence with a recreation needs facility when sufficient need/demand is demonstrated. assessment in 2016/17. • Investigate the concept of a walkway/bridle trail from the top of Wairau Road Another process that will assist determining the through Department of Conservation land alongside the Kaitake Ranges to future for equestrian facilities is the Regional Lucy’s Gully. Recreation Facility Strategy that is proposed to be • Provide a commitment to explore Waimoku, Wairau and Oakura Pathway lead by Sport Taranaki in the next 12 – 18 months. Links as shared pathways with equestrians. • Provide a commitment to a shared pathway on the Fort St George/Weld Road Bridle trails referred to in the submission in the Coastal Link. Oakura area will be considered further as part of the Oakura Local Area Blueprint.
There is an ongoing commitment to explore shared pathways across the district as identified in objective 2.4 36. Kidsafe Yes, considers local government has a crucial role to play in creating environments Noted. Taranaki Trust that promote community health and wellbeing. 37. New The NPCTC strongly support the Council’s role for sport facilities and consider the A similar submission was also made to the Long Plymouth and “sportsville” concept a great initiative which has worked well in other regions. The Term Plan process by the New Plymouth Districts Clay NPCTC proposed expanding the use of King Road Forest site to include other Deerstalkers Club and the Council resolved that
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Target Club shooting clubs (site currently used by an archery club). The feedback details the need officers work with the club to investigate options. for a new shooting sport location, the benefits of a shared facility and pooling Options including King Road Forest are currently resources. being explored and wording to reflect this is recommended to be added to the facilities table with a new category of Shooting Sports (including Archery). 38. Waitara Pony Request a statement of intent about bridle trails in Waitara, with specific requests – The intention is for shared use on the pathways on Club - Ranfurly and Mould Street paper roads – retain access on these paper roads. the paper road to continue. - Ranfurly Street- continued access on the part of the paper road that has now been formed as a metal pathway. Deepening the path under SH3 has been considered - Path under SH3 be deepened as it is no longer possible to lead a horse under but is not appropriate due to the potential erosion it the bridge will call to the stopbank. The pony club have been - A pathway from Ranfurly Park to the beach be provided. advised of this.
A shared path from Ranfurly Park to the beach will be considered as part of the development of the Coastal Walkway to Waitara and associated beach access. This matter has been included in the scope for the planning work for this project. 40. YMCA Request on the facilities table that under ‘Indoor Sports’ the YMCA Stadium is Amendments recommended under Indoor Sports and Taranaki recognised. Under Squash – request that the YMCA squash courts are acknowledged. Squash to acknowledge the YMCA facilities as requested. 41. Waitara Bike Outlines the community’s desire to have a community recreational bike track in Council officers have been working with the group to Track Group Waitara and the positive outcomes that could be provided through such a track. identify information needed for such a proposal and details of different site options. More work on the proposal is needed, however nothing in this strategy prevents new proposals from being assessed and guidance is provided in the strategy (page 33) on the plan for new proposal assessment. 42. Sport Taranaki Feedback includes a number of recommendations – A separate report will be prepared on this matter. - That NPDC commit to investing in a facilities stocktake in partnership with Sport NZ, Sport Taranaki, TSC Community Trust and the regions district The Council is currently developing an enhanced way Councils. of reflecting and valuing partnerships with external - Investigate alternative funding sources for aspects of the strategy. organisations. Any financial considerations will be - Engage in dialogue with Sport Taranaki about providing the community subject to partnership investment discussions and due
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development financial resource to enable Sport Taranaki to provide additional process. Wording in the strategy has been amended to community development capacity building services and supporting the sport reflect this. and recreation sector. - The strategy should have more active monitoring components and evaluate its “added-value” every three years (with some specific suggestions made). 43. Fitzroy Golf Supports the draft strategy as a viable and realistic plan for our open spaces but with It is recommended that as part of the Blueprint Club the golf course as it is, without loss of land to urban development, best meets the Implementation Plan a project is included to work vision, goals and objectives of the draft strategy. Feedback details the current situation with the Fitzroy Golf Course to create a master plan and how the club sees this connected with the draft’s goal and objectives. The club is for the golf course and Peringa Park areas with prepared to work with the Council to continue the advancement of the game and the consideration of the National Golf Strategy hierarchy enjoyment of an exceptional open space and the opportunity it offers the wellbeing of and local situation. New Plymouth residents and visitors. CTP2 Michael Considers the district is stagnating in regards to sport and recreation infrastructure. Known future needs for sport and recreation Collins Specifically artificial surfaces for hockey, soccer and touch rugby are lacking in the infrastructure are identified in the facilities table province, as is quality lighting for sport at night. within Goal 4, the timing of implementation of the projects is a matter for the Council to consider as part of the Long Term Plan. In terms of artificial surfaces, the Council is currently working with the Regional Council to develop a Yarrow Stadium Master Plan, within which an artificial turf is being considered. At a community field level, studies have shown that the existing fields have sufficient capacity at this time. Goal 5 – The Delivery Of Sport And Recreation Is Supported Do you think the objectives and initiatives in Goal 5 will help the delivery of sport and recreation in the next 30 years? 1. Kim Sowman Yes, however considers accessibility to different sports in each community needs Activities and facilities in individual communities are consideration, i.e. Bell Block does not have tennis courts or a touch module. driven by community demand and need. The Strategy provides a framework for new proposals to be considered, accessibility is one of the key principles for assessment of new facilities. 2. Francis Yes. Noted. Douglas Memorial College
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3. Manukorihi Yes. Noted. Intermediate School 5. William No. Considers Yarrow Stadium to be under-utilised and access for community sport at Yarrow Stadium is managed and funded differently Johnston this facility very limited. Suggests budget needs to be targeted into different areas so to other facilities in the district, with the Taranaki that the public can have full use of facilities. Regional Council and New Plymouth District Council forming a joint management committee and a trust owning the facility. A master plan for Yarrow Stadium is currently under development and the issue of community sport at Yarrow Stadium is a matter being considered. 7. Energy City Yes, if there is genuine collaboration with community groups and sports organisations. Noted. Harriers
9. Bell Block Agree with objective 5.1 and requests that the Council should consider Bell Block It is acknowledged that the Bell Block Aquatic Community Aquatic Centre in its delivery of aquatic facilities. The facility is already managed and Centre is currently managed in partnership. There are Pool Society used in partnership. a number of existing partnerships in the community Inc (BBPS) that deliver sport and recreation facilities and programmes, however it is not considered appropriate to acknowledge them individually in the strategy document. 10. Judith Hellyar Yes, collaboration is good and user charges need to be appropriate – a balance of the Noted, this is a consideration as part of the revenue expenses of the venue weighed with affordability of the users. and financing policy and strategy development for individual facilities. 11. Andrew Brock Considers the good objectives in goal 5 but does not think the Council should try and One of the objectives 5.3 includes developing a deliver them. Suggests the Council should resource entities like Sport Taranaki to strategic partnership with Sport Taranaki, through deliver. which it can be considered what initiatives Sport Taranaki can deliver to achieve the objectives. 12. Bishops Questions what extent the investment in Sport Taranaki is already supposed to be The Council is currently developing an enhanced way Action achieving this? And whether the Council is the right entity to achieve objectives in of reflecting and valuing partnerships with external Foundation goal 5. organisations. Any financial considerations will be subject to partnership investment discussions and due process.
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13. Conrad Considers this a good start and it may be useful to also consider non structured sports Noted, Goal 5 is intended to support the delivery of Pattison (NZ activities e.g. water sports, skating, skateboarding, and Frisbee golf. all types of sports and recreation activities. Aboricultural Assn Inc.) 17. Hamish Crimp Yes – considers it is key the Council continues and extends its role in connecting local Noted. sports clubs with sources of funding other than from the Council. 18. Waitara At present no. Consider removal of all rubbish bins at parks is no good. Noted. A reduction of some rubbish has occurred at Surfcasting some low use parks, no further bin removals are Club proposed, the Council currently has 297 rubbish bins within its parks. 20. Brian Beer Yes – supports funding in pursuit of this goal. Noted. 21. Kaitake KCB agree with objectives of this goal. Noted. Community Board 23. Teresa Gordon Suggests objective 5.2 needs to consider equity between geographical areas, poor/rich The current distribution of open space across the parts of town too, not just sporting codes. district is fair. The level of subsidy applied and associated charges set take into consideration a number of factors including market factors and some demographics ie age with differing junior and senior sports field charges. 26. Waitara Alive Notes there is a possibility for Sport Taranaki/Sport Trust to become the partner for The intention of objective 5.1 is to work with key governance/management of facilities and queries – what role do already formed partners to establish more sportsville type models sportsville type governance models play in this proposed model? across the district. 27. New Yes, New Plymouth Injury Safe would like to see a focus in this section on Monitoring sport and physical activity trends is Plymouth recognising and providing for new sporting/physical trends among young people. important part of the Council’s ongoing planning. Injury Safe Acknowledgement of this recommended to be added Trust under objective 5.3. 29. TSB To ensure strategic engagement with funders, the Trust requests that funders be added Agreed. Strategically and operationally the Council is Community to the list of key stakeholders on page 38. working to strengthen engagement with key funders, Trust In respect of the number of objectives that have a capacity building and community and the strategy will be amended to better reflect this. development focus, the Trust’s view is that it is essential that this work continues to be Following recent Long Term Plan decisions the supported and that community development is an important role of the Council. Council’s community development approach will remain, however with a more strategic and less hands on approach.
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28. New Considers it important for the Council to have relationships with the regional and The references to regional and national sporting Plymouth national sporting bodies however considers it very important to have strong organsiations in the strategy are not in place of Mountain relationships directly with relevant sports clubs. relationships directly with sports clubs where Bikers appropriate. For some sports codes such as mountain biking there is no separate regional sports organisation and therefore there is often a more direct relationship with the club/s. 32. Andrew Yes, although consider that we need to take into account the increasing use of Noted. Larsen computers by young people as their only means of recreation.
Goal 6 – Our Biodiversity And Cultural Heritage Is Protected And Easy To Access Does the strategy cover all aspects of biodiversity and cultural heritage values in open spaces? 2. Francis Emphasise the variety of types of open space Variety of types of open space is emphasised in Douglas section 2.1. Specific references to beaches has been Memorial added to section 2.1 and the preamble to goal 6 on College page 41 5. William Yes. Noted. Johnston 7. Energy City Supports continued accessibility to green corridors for runners. Noted, covered by objective 6.2 Harriers 8. Friends of For the wording of the goal the Friends suggest adding the words “protected and With consideration of feedback from the Friends and Pukekura Park valued”. other organisations an amendments to the wording of goal 6 to ‘Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is projected and valued as an experience’. This takes the focus away from ‘easy access’ while acknowledging that many of our places of biodiversity and cultural heritage are accessed and experienced by the community. This amended wording links to objective 6.3. Support expressed for specific objectives with recommendation that local knowledge and consultation needs to be considered alongside expert advice. Amendment recommended to include words ‘and local knowledge’ after expert advice in bullet point 4 The Friends also state that commitment from NPDC will be required to ensure under objective 6.2. protection of the natural environment. Noted.
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10. Judith Hellyar Considers it covers all. Noted. 11. Andrew Brock Considers there is a real opportunity to partner up with different community groups Working collaboratively with community groups and who are interested and committed in the biodiversity and cultural heritage space which organisations in this area is an objective. would help enhance this area. 12. Bishops Considers the connection between the biodiversity and open space has enormous Agreed and noted. Action potential. Clever open spaces can be great resources for providing useful habitats for Foundation native wildlife and plants. 13. Conrad Considers it would be good if goal 6 also looks at the provision of large specimen trees The intended focus of Goal 6 and related action is Pattison (NZ within open spaces, including formal and informal arboretums. The importance of indigenous biodiversity however nothing in goal 6 Aboricultural diverse tree collection on public land will become more evident in the future as many prevents the Council from considering planting Assn Inc.) species around the world succumb to diseases. The New Plymouth district climate is exotic trees. The planting of specimen trees and unique and can grow a wide range of species of trees from a number of countries. establishment of arboretums is best considered as part of reserve management plans. The District Plan review is also an opportunity for the Council to consider its role in protection of large specimen trees. 14. Heritage New Heritage New Zealand support goal 6 of the strategy and statements and objectives Noted. Zealand within. 15. Nga Motu Concerned about the intent of including the word ‘easy’ in the goal 6 and suggest the With consideration of feedback from the Society and Marine words ‘protected and valued’. other organisations an amendments to the wording of Reserve goal 6 to ‘Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is Society Inc. projected and valued as an experience’. This takes the focus away from ‘easy access’ while acknowledging that many of our places of biodiversity and cultural heritage are accessed and experienced by the community. This amended wording links to objective 6.3.
Suggest more linkages between goal 6 and other sections and reference to the role Linkage to partnerships outlined in objective 3.3 management plans have in revaluating and protecting heritage. referenced. Management plans referenced under objective 6.2.
With respect of objective 6.2 the society suggest the need for a consultation process Amendment recommended to include words ‘and and access to better data sets, with expert advice being grounded with local local knowledge’ after expert advice in bullet point 4 knowledge. Would also like to see specific biodiversity responsibilities in a job under objective 6.2. description.
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17. Hamish Crimp Considers there could be more of a focus on enhancing biodiversity values, The New Plymouth District Blueprint directions particularly corridors between the mountain, city and the sea. include a focus on improving biodiversity along river corridors that connect from mountain to sea as a priority. This is reflected and expanded in objective 6.2 20. Brian Beer Yes, if adequately funded. Noted. 21. Kaitake KCB outline the importance and role of beaches and the need to ensure the Amendments recommended adding references to Community recreational use of beaches must be considerate of and managed with respect for their beaches in section 2.1 ‘What is recreation and open Board nature, atmosphere and aesthetics. space’ as well as the preamble of Goal 6. KCB express disappointment that the preamble of Goal 6 ‘beaches’ is not mentioned.
Objective 6.1/6.2/6.3 KCB identify that the objectives within this goal does not recognise partnerships with Objective 3.3 – To build partnerships with the community to achieve goal 6. KCB provide a list of the initiatives they are aware community groups to empower the public to look of where the community is contributing to this goal. after open space, it is intended to be encompassing of all open spaces types including biodiversity. It is not recommended this is duplicated in goal 6, however it is acknowledged that these types of partnerships to assist achieving goal 6 and this cross reference to this objective has been added. 26. Waitara Alive Consider it important to build recreation and leisure facility pathways and connections As part of facility development near an area of that don’t have adverse effect on the biodiversity of the Waitara River or impact on biodiversity and/or cultural values an impact Iwi and hapu environmental plans. assessment is carried out in accordance with objective 6.2 28. New Agree with the statements in the strategy which acknowledge the biodiversity of Lake Forestry is currently a source of revenue identified in Plymouth Managamahoe however considers that the re planting of harvested areas in radiata the Long Term Plan and Council’s revenue and Mountain (pine) does not show appreciation or empathy of the biodiversity goal. The mountain financing policy. The decision to no longer have Bikers bikers encourage the Council to show strong vision in this strategy and declare Lake commercial forestry at Lake Mangamahoe would Mangamahoe to be ‘native only’ in terms of replanting open space. need to be made as part of the Long Term Plan process. 29. TSB Asks what resources will be provided to heritage and tangata whenua organisations to Assistance with participation in plan and policy Community further biodiversity and heritage management in collaboration with the Council as development is currently undertaken on a case by Trust outlined in objective 6.1 case basis. The Council provides assistance to the tangata whenua reference groups for specific projects such as the District Plan review.
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32. Andrew Yes. Noted. Larsen 33. Dr Jonathon The quality of water is an issue that sometimes poses a public health threat to residents This is covered in objective 2.1- an amendment is Jarman and using rivers. States that NPDC has a key role working with the Taranaki Regional recommended at the end of third bullet point add Channa Perry Council and Tangata Whenua to improve and protect the quality of recreationally used “with the aim of improving water quality”. - TDBH waterways. 34. Central Believes the protection of biodiversity and cultural heritage is absolutely essential and Noted. Football congratulates the Council on their plans to ensure such protection is continued and future focus. 39. North Pleased to see the level of acknowledgement in regards to indigenous biodiversity. With consideration of feedback from the society and Taranaki Express concern with the statement that ‘biodiversity should be easy to enjoy’ with other organisations an amendments to the wording of Branch Royal what they might imply. Suggest ‘valued as an experience’ would be our preferred goal 6 to ‘Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is Forest and wording. projected and valued as an experience’. This takes the Bird focus away from ‘easy access’ while acknowledging Protection Considers the strategy does not have any emphasis on the protection of biodiversity. that many of our places of biodiversity and cultural Society The Society would like to see the section on criteria for decision making include some heritage are accessed and experienced by the priority for biodiversity particularly where an open space area was known or found to community. This amended wording links to objective have threatened or regionally significant species or habitat. 6.3.
Query whether this strategy is the only avenue in which the Council to meet regional This strategy is focused on open space at a strategic biodiversity targets/agreements. level, the Council also have reserve management plan, operational plan and KNE action plans which Consider many of the statements need policy development. One in particular of high assist with meeting regional biodiversity outcomes. concern is “The need to protect biodiversity is balanced with providing access and recreational activities”, which indicates a bias and less value on biodiversity. The society suggests “The need for access and recreation activities will be balanced with Amendment of order of words as suggested the need to protect biodiversity”. recommended. Other Comments 4. Omata School Fitness stations in community areas. This request has been considered by the Council as part of the Long Term Plan process and officers are continuing to work with an interest 8. Friends of Support a number of actions in “Strategic Action Plan”. Would like to see Action 37 The actions have now been removed from this Pukekura Park and 38 undertaken in the context of a partnership and two-way flow of information. strategy as all actions will now be considered as part Action 43- request the impact of changes on biodiversity, plant collections and cultural of the Blueprint Implementation Plan, the specific values are included. feedback will be considered as part of this.
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Actions 46-48 – consider processes need to be in place to identify impacts of these actions upon the park and biodiversity. The Friends consider the strategy to be a good one but is missing the concept that the natural world/biodiversity and historic/cultural values span all actions. 15. Nga Motu The society considers sections of the Strategy need to be worded to robustly support A number of the matters raised in this feedback are Marine the following: wider than Council owned open space and it is Reserve - The importance of planning proposals recognising the legal Council appropriate that they are considered as part of the Society Inc. Management Plans and regulations covering adjacent properties, such as District Plan review. There is acknowledgement in crown land. goal 6 of the strategy that there is a need for better - The need for complex datasets about natural values. monitoring and information on Council owned areas - The need for an accessible index of rules covering reserve plans. with significant biodiversity. - The need for buffer zones around significant biodiversity areas – such as for coastal birds, the DOC reserves and stewardship areas. The actions have now been removed from this - The means to facilitate serious consultation about community values, to strategy as all actions will now be considered as part evaluate these, and implement the findings. of the Blueprint Implementation Plan, the specific feedback will be considered as part of this. A number of comments and suggests provided relating to the strategic actions. 18. Waitara Provides further comment on their views of Waitara Marine park. Noted. Development and management of individual Surfcasting reserves are addressed through reserve management Club plans. 22. Inglewood Request the Council consider upgrading the Inglewood play space, particularly the The Council considered both these matters as part of Community skate park and also consider installing a toilet at Jubilee Park the Long Term Plan Process 2012-25 and resolved to Board partially fund redevelopment of the Jubilee Skate Park from a renewal budget, subject to community fundraising. Existing playgrounds will be renewed as condition requires and with consideration of the play space strategy adopted. A toilet at Jubilee Park will need to be considered again at a future Long Term Plan process. 23. Teresa Gordon Encourages purchase of new open space in the Marsden Subdivision (Mangorei Road) No new open space was taken as part of the Marsden to augment existing open space in Highland. Also discusses challenges facing school Subdivision. A solution identified in the draft and the ideal solution of reserve land backing onto school to create a multi-use space strategy to assist in filling the open space gap in to extend school grounds. Highland Park is the redevelopment of existing reserve land known as the Branch Road Reserve on Ainslie Street. This will provide a neighbourhood
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open space for kicking a ball and potentially a play ground with good future access from the school as the land to the south is subdivided. Other opportunities within the ‘area of interest’ will also be investigated. 24. Okato Pony Suggest a way the Council could improve access to open space for Okato horse riders There is no budget provision for this matter. If the Club Inc. is grant permission to the pony club to improve the access across the Kaihihi Stream. Okato Pony Club wished to consider it as a Modification is needed by moving boulders and digging a small path. community project the first steps would be consultation with Taranaki Regional Council in regards to access through the stream. The pony club has been advised of this. 26. Waitara Alive Queries how the Council will manage the strategic actions given the reduction in the As discussed in the report, the recommended Community Development service and that the Community Development Group is approach for future consideration of action is that this named as responsible for some of the action in the action plan. be through the Blueprint Implementation Plan where all actions from the blueprint and other strategies are considered and prioritised together. As part of this consideration on how actions are delivered will also occur. 27. New Supports statements in the background document relating to the link between good The vision of the strategy acknowledges this Plymouth quality recreation and open spaces and health benefits. Suggests this point should be connection. Throughout the document references to Injury Safe emphasised strongly within the main strategy. health benefits of open space and the activities within Trust are made. Within the introduction an amendment to the draft has been made to refer to the new community outcomes of “strong and resilient” community and the benefits of sport and recreation on physical and mental health. 29. TSB The Trust makes a number of specific comments in their feedback relating to the Strategic actions will now be considered as part of Community strategic actions in the plan including identifying actions that they would like to be the wider implementation for the District Blueprint, Trust consulted or involved in. as part of this process the feedback from TSB Community Trust will be considered. 30. New Outlines the need to maintain the special naturalness of Barrett Domain providing The Barrett Domain Management Plan contemplates Plymouth bicycle free areas with good walking tracks and also continuation of the safe grazing the continuation of Riding for the Disabled at this Riding for the areas and buildings. park. Mountain biking is not permitted at Barrett Disabled Domain. This strategy does not propose any change to use of the domain.
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 open space, sport and recreation strategy - 30 years
October 2015
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 2 APPENDICES 49
Appendix One: Criteria for determining land purchase 2. INTRODUCTION 3 or disposal of open space 50
2.1 What is recreation and open space? 4 Appendix Two: New Plymouth's Existing Shared Pathways 52 2.2 What is the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy? 5 Appendix Three: New Plymouth District Play Space Framework 54 2.3 The Council’s role in open space 7
2.4 Who are the key partners? 8
2.5 Tangata whenua 10
2.6 Case studies 12
3. STRATEGIC DIRECTION 14
3.1 Our vision 14
3.2 Strategic goals 15
Goal 1: Our spaces are appropriately located 16 Goal 2: Our spaces make it easy to exercise, play, socialise and relax 25 Goal 3: Open space, sports and recreation contributes to community identity, vibrancy and sense of place 28 Goal 4: Facilities encourage ease of participation and maximise spectator enjoyment 31 Goal 5: The delivery of sport and recreation is supported 38 Goal 6: Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected and easy to valued as an experience 41
4. STRATEGIC ACTIONS AND MONITORING 45
6. GLOSSARY 46
7. BIBLIOGRAPHY 47
October 2015 1 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
New Plymouth District is unique for its diversity of The strategy provides a framework for the following vision: recreation and open spaces including beaches, walkways, rivers and streams, recreational trails, neighbourhood parks, swimming pools, playgrounds, skate parks, sports ‘Great spaces and places parks, the mountain and cemeteries. The access that is available to these recreation and open spaces, to Mount for an active and healthy Taranaki and to the sea forms part of the district’s identity. These are important features that attract people to New community’ Plymouth District. Sport and recreation activities are an essential part of Ensuring connections between open spaces is also an many peoples lives. Participation in recreation and sport important consideration so they are accessible to the contributes to a healthy community, provides ways for community. Having strong partnerships with stakeholders people to interact with each other and improves social will ensure that the community and users of recreation and cohesion. open spaces are supported. While the population in New Plymouth District is increasing The strategy proposes to achieve the following goals for and is likely to continue to do so, we need to ensure the next 30 years. that we have a consistent long-term decision-making framework for the delivery of open space, sport and recreation. 1. Our spaces are appropriately located
The Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy (replacing the District Leisure Plan 1999), addresses 2. Our spaces make it easy to exercise, play, the key issues and emerging trends discussed in the socialise and relax Background Document dated August 2014, by providing a strategic framework to plan for open space, sport and recreation for the community for the next 30 years. 3. Recreation and open space contributes to community identity, vibrancy and sense The strategy identifies New Plymouth District Council’s level of service for providing open space and recreation of place facilities that meet community recreational needs. It includes criteria to guide decision making for buying or 4. Facilities encourage ease of participation disposing of open space and identifies opportunities for and maximise spectator enjoyment improving and enhancing recreational opportunities (such as bridle trails and mountain bike tracks). 5. The delivery of sport and recreation is supported
6. Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected and easy to valued as an experience
2 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy 2. INTRODUCTION
Open spaces and recreation contribute positively to social, physical and mental well-being. They also have positive benefits for the local economy and help preserve and enhance the natural environment. Open spaces and recreation facilities contribute to great lifestyle opportunities that attract people to the district and make them want to stay. Open spaces in this district hold a special place in the heart of residents. Looking after these spaces enhances community pride. Year after year, surveys show that more than 90 per cent of New Plymouth residents use open spaces. Satisfaction with these spaces is consistently more than 95 per cent. For these reasons it is imperative that we continue to plan for open spaces and recreation facilities that meet the current and future needs of the community. This Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy sets out the strategic direction for Council-owned facilities, open spaces and the many features within. The strategy also outlines the leadership and support the Council will give to ‘key partners’ who also have a role in the delivery of open space, sport and recreation.
Left: Te Rewa Rewa Living Legends Planting Day 2014
October 2015 3 2.1 What is recreation and open space?
Open spaces comprise land that is owned and/or administered by New Plymouth District Council. This strategy will cover public open spaces, public indoor recreational facilities, public outdoor high performance venues and recreational facilities. Public open spaces are land and water areas, including beaches, available to the public for sport, recreational, cultural, conservation and leisure purposes. Facilities are sites and infrastructure required for people to participate in sport and recreation. Outdoor Adventure Spaces Recreation is activity undertaken for lifestyle, well-being, health and/or enjoyment. This may include playing in a playground, walking, going for a run, biking to work, dancing, kicking a ball around in the park or playing a sport. It may be participated in either individually, with a group or as a team. Sport is physical activity that is competitive, organised, involves the observation of rules, and may be participated in either individually or as a team.
High performance venues
What do people like doing in Taranaki? A 2013 survey found that the top five most popular participation activities in Taranaki are: • Swimming (31 per cent) • Fishing (18 per cent) Facilities • Cycling (17 per cent) • Jogging/running (15 per cent) • Tramping (13 per cent)
From top: Barrett’s Lagoon; Yarrow Stadium; TSB Stadium; Tapuae Nature Spaces
4 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy 2.2 What is the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy?
The Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy is a long- term planning document that will help the Council plan, develop and manage Council-owned recreation and open spaces within the district, in a way that meets the current and future needs of the community. The strategy: 1. Sets clear goals for recreation and open spaces including consideration of: • High performance sport needs; Sports and Recreation Open Spaces • Connectivity and use of open space for community accessibility; • Regional biodiversity objectives; and
• Local identity and sense of place amenity. 2. Defines levels of service for open space and recreation facility provision. 3. Identifies options for purchasing land that has a high potential to meet community recreational needs or is required through level of service provision. Civic Spaces 4. Includes criteria for purchasing new open spaces and disposing of land and facilities that offer limited opportunities or public benefit. 5. Identifies opportunities for improving and enhancing recreation opportunities, including opportunities for bridle trails, mountain bike tracks and a dog park (as identified during the Community Plan 2009-2019 consultation process). This strategy has been developed with consideration of demographics, future trends, research and national and local studies. Cultural Heritage For clarity the strategy does not focus on: • Assets within private land. • Libraries. • Cultural venues not associated with open space, e.g. TSB Showplace.
From top: Sportsfield; Brougham Street/Puke Ariki; Neighbourhood Parks Marsland Hill; Wallace Place Reserve
October 2015 5 New Plymouth District Council's Integrated Planning Framework The vision and goals of the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy will assist the Council to achieve its Shaping Our Future Together vision and Blueprint key directions through the clarification of the Council's role, direction and initiatives articulated in this strategy. The Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy informs the future development and review of the Long-Term Plan, Infrastructure Strategy and District Plan. The strategy also provides a consistent decision-making framework for the delivery of open space, sport and recreation for the many proposals and opportunities that are presented.
6 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy 2.3 the Council’s role in open space
The Council has an active role in the provision of recreation and open space within New Plymouth District but more specifically has the following roles.
Provide, develop, and maintain recreational facilities and open spaces under the purpose of the Local Government Act 2002. The purpose of local government in the Act sets out that the Council has a broad responsibility to ensure good quality infrastructure is provided that meets the current and future needs of the community. Manage and administer recreation and open spaces often in Crown ownership, through the preparation and implementation of reserve management plans under the Reserves Act 1977. Protect and preserve the recreation and open space network from inappropriate use and development under the Reserves Act 1977, Local Government Act 2002 and Resource Management Act 1991. Have partnerships with Taranaki Regional Council, Stratford District Council, South Taranaki District Council, tangata whenua, community groups, schools, funders and other government-funded agencies that provide recreation and open space opportunities. Advocate the importance of recreation and open spaces to the community through strategic documents, plans and information. Undertake ongoing research and planning during the preparation of strategies and management plans to meet the needs of existing and future generations. Fund long-term plan projects and community events such as guided walks. The actions within this strategy require funding in the long-term plan to varying degrees. Deliver a limited number of programmes including learn to swim, aqua-aerobics and guided walks. Currently the Council does not deliver any programmes in stadiums or halls. Facilitates sport and recreation with open space and the strategic direction of facilities.
Right: Whitecliffs Walkway
October 2015 7 2.4 Who are the key partners?
The delivery of open space, sport and recreation is not something that the Council undertakes on its own. There are many key players identified below, that are integral to the delivery, management and development of open space, sport and recreation.
The implementation of the strategy for the next 30 years will require ongoing collaboration with these key partners.
Tangata Whenua Sports Clubs Biodiversity Groups Taranaki District Health Board
Working with tangata Sports clubs are the main Connecting with biodiversity Providing open spaces and whenua is important deliverer of sport in the groups enables innovative facilities encourages people to ensure that heritage community. Providing ideas to be shared that can to have active and healthy resources of cultural and support to sports clubs help preserve and enhance lifestyles which the TDHB natural value within open assists them with the the biodiversity within open promotes. spaces are preserved and delivery of a diverse range spaces. protected. of activities.
National Sports Landowners Regional Sports Education Groups Organisations (NSOs) Organisations (RSOs)
NSOs take responsibility for Working with landowners RSOs have direct Schools provide playing the health, well-being and is vital to acquire land for relationships with clubs and fields and playgrounds, capability of their RSOs. open space and improve schools and are responsible some of which are for NSOs develop national connections between open for providing leadership and community use. Sharing facility strategies and ‘whole spaces. support to schools, clubs recreational facilities with of sport’ plans for delivery and events. schools can build vibrancy of sport. within the community.
8 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Other Councils Working collaboratively with Taranaki Who contributes to funding? Regional Council, Stratford District In 2011/2012, the major funders within New Plymouth Council and South Taranaki District District gave $5.2 million in grants to the sport and Council can ensure a consistent recreation sector. approach to providing open spaces and facilities.
Sport Sport Taranaki Commercial Providers Disability Groups New Zealand
Tea House on the Lake
Sport New Zealand is Sport Taranaki’s mission Commercial providers have Open spaces and facilities a central government is to lead and support a role in providing facilities, are designed so that people organisation proud to be the active sport and recreation activities and events within of ‘all ages and abilities’ can guardian of our country's in Taranaki. It provides open spaces that contribute use them. Various disability world-leading sporting programmes and services to having a vibrant groups provide input into system, from grassroots to a range of organisations. community. open space development through to elite sport. and assist individuals with information.
Community Groups Department of Venture Taranaki Funding Trusts Conservation (DOC)
Connecting with community DOC provides and manage Promoting the diversity of Funding trusts such as groups allows people to open space with recreation open spaces for events and TSB Community Trust and learn and experience the and conservation values. commercial opportunities Taranaki Electricity Trust biodiversity and cultural By working together joint is important to create a support sport, recreation heritage within open initiatives have been put in vibrant community and and open space through spaces. A number of place including community a healthy economy. VTT grant funding to a number ‘Friends’ groups have an plantings and guided walks. supports businesses and of organisations including active role in looking after events through a number the Council. open space. of services including promotion of the district. www.taranaki.info
October 2015 9 2.5 tangata whenua Open spaces are rich in cultural heritage which are of importance to tangata whenua.
Taranaki has been settled by humans for approximately Issues related to land ownership are still in the process 800 years, with the arrival of many waka over the of being resolved. The Treaty of Waitangi settlement centuries. There are six intertwined iwi groups having rohe process has given statutory acknowledgement to Ngati in New Plymouth District: Ngati Tama, Ngati Mutunga, Te Tama and Ngati Mutunga of their relationship to lands Atiawa, Ngati Maru, Taranaki and Ngati Maniapoto. and resources with their rohe. Te Atiawa Iwi Authority entered into a Heads of Agreement with the Crown in 1999 The Mana Whenua Mana Moana document prepared and is working towards a Deed of Settlement. Additional by the Mana Whenua Reference Group in 2005 notes settlements may occur in the future as iwi and the Crown (page 5) that “one of the most important issues for address Treaty claims. tangata whenua is land and land use, whether it is in their ownership, private ownership or local authority ownership. Their responsibilities of kaitiakitanga do not alter”. Tangata whenua‘s open space role The Crown assumed ownership of a large amount of land The Council currently consults with hapu groups including at the time of European settlement and in later years as Nga Hapu o Poutama, Otaraua Hapu, Ngati Rahiri, Ngati the district developed. Over a million hectares of land was Tawhirikura, Puketapu, Pukerangiora, Ngati Te Whiti Ahi confiscated across the country during the 1860 land wars. Kaa, Ngati Tairi and Nga Mahanga during the development Subsequently, lands were taken for public works such as of reserve management plans, open space developments, the railways and schools. subdivision and land use consents and on a day-to-day basis. These events disrupted the relationship between tangata whenua and their rohe and the kaitiakitanga, or The Council also has partnership arrangements via stewardship, role that they traditionally held with regard to Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) and through those lands and resources. formalised agreements (MoU with Ngati Mutunga and the Te Rewa Rewa Agreement with Ngati Tawhirikura Trust).
10 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy KAITIAKITANGA “KAITIAKITANGA in the traditional concept was an obligation and responsibility of tangata whenua to be protectors and caretakers of the tribal estates, interests and resources. This included the ability to put in practice particular protection methods such as rahui. The modern concept of kaitiakitanga is the responsibility on tangata whenua to advocate and practise sustainable development.”
Tangata whenua have an important role as being • Utilise existing knowledge for open space guardians of areas in accordance with Tikanga Maori in developments and reserve management plans where relation to natural and physical resources. Sections 6 and appropriate. 7 of the Resource Management Act acknowledges that • Collaborate with tangata whenua on open space all territorial authorities as a matter of national importance developments that may have an impact on cultural when considering development, must take into account values. the relationship of Maori and their culture and traditions • Uphold existing partnership arrangements (MoU with with their ancestral lands, water, sites, waahi tapu, and Ngati Mutunga and Te Rewa Rewa Agreement with other taonga. District councils also have a responsibility Ngati Tawhirikura Trust). to protect historic heritage from inappropriate subdivision, use and development. There are specific actions within the strategy that will require the Council to work closely with tangata whenua One of the most immediate ways for the Council to on an ongoing basis. Working together will ensure acknowledge the kaitiaki role of tangata whenua within that heritage resources of cultural or natural value their rohe is to provide opportunities for participation are protected and preserved for current and future in decision-making processes on issues related to the generations. management of land and resources, including open spaces. The Council’s Tangata Whenua Forum was involved in the development of this strategy and consisted of hapu representatives in New Plymouth District. The strategy proposes for the Council and tangata whenua to work collaboratively together to: • Protect sites of historic significance where appropriate.
October 2015 11 2.6 case studies
Case Study 1: Herekawe Restoration Project The Herekawe Stream Walkway Project was initiated in 2002. The project had three aims: to establish an all-weather walkway along the Herekawe Stream to link inland residential areas with the coast, to re- establish natural habitat through the planting of native trees and to provide a recreational facility for the Taranaki community.
The key partners in the project were Dow Agrosciences, Methanex Ltd, Shell Todd Oil Services, AJ Cowley Ltd, New Plymouth District Council, Taranaki Regional Council, the Taranaki Tree Trust, iwi and the community.
In late 2011 discussion was held between the Taranaki Tree Trust and New Plymouth District Council about the potential for Stage II of the project to build on the work that had already been done. A three-year work programme was drafted for 2012-2014 focusing on weed control, restoration planting, maintenance of the walkway and information.
Case Study 2: Clifton Park Community Project The Clifton Park Community Project is a good example of how the ‘sportsville model’ can be successful in increasing sport and recreation in local communities. In 2011 there was a desire by clubs and Waitara Gymsports to improve facilities at the park, and the TSB Community Trust, Taranaki Electricity Trust, Sport Taranaki and the Council therefore agreed to work together with the Waitara community to consider what would be the best development of Clifton Park for all users. Case Study 3: Marsland Hill Historic Reserve In December 2011, Global Leisure Group Limited was In 2010 the Council adopted a Historic Reserve Management Plan commissioned to prepare a plan for the future shared governance (prepared under the Reserves Act 1977) that includes Marsland and development of facilities at Clifton Park. The primary purpose Hill Historic Reserve. The management plan identifies appropriate of a new facility at Clifton Park would be to increase community uses, activities and future development within the reserve and participation in regular sports activity and informal recreation and assists with day-to-day management and decision-making. to enable residents to develop their skills and abilities. Clifton Park Marsland Hill is a prominent land feature of the city and a significant would also continue to be a neighbourhood park for the immediate historical site for New Plymouth with both Maori and European residential population. history. For Marsland Hill the historic values and features of The Clifton Park user group (including Council officers), working the reserve are balanced with accommodating other modern with Global Leisure, agreed to adopt the “sportsville” governance activities. The objectives and policies in the management plan model that will see the sports clubs remain sovereign entities under recognise ongoing use of the reserve by the Taranaki Emergency a board set up as North Taranaki Sport and Recreation (NTSR) Management Office and New Plymouth Astronomical Society. Incorporated. This entity may govern the clubs and Waitara The policies and development plan for the reserve also include Gymsports at Clifton Park depending on the final option chosen. provision and maintenance of view shafts, which provide views The recommended option includes both a new facility at Clifton over New Plymouth City and the sea. Management plan funding in Park including an indoor court, common social space for clubs the Long-Term Plan 2012-2022 allowed for paths around the base and replacing the outdoor netball/tennis courts. The next step in of the reserve to be upgraded and the project is for NTSR to initiate a feasibility study on the bollards installed to protect the site development options to be completed to allow NTSR to from vehicle vandalism. determine its preferred option.
Above right: Herekawe Stream Middle left: Clifton Park sportsfields Bottom left: Bell Tower, Marsland Hill
12 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Case Study 4: Barrett Domain Management Plan In 2013 the Council approved a new management plan for Barrett Domain. The plan found a balance between the recreational user groups (Riding for the Disabled and Taranaki Equestrian Network) who have different needs, along with the preservation of the natural environment of the domain.
The domain retains a rural and natural bush setting and was once separated from the city by farmland but now more than half of the domain is surrounded by residential dwellings. This has brought about an increase in accessibility to the domain as well as a greater awareness of it.
The domain also has the potential to provide pedestrian, cycle and bridle connections to Ratapihihi Scenic Reserve.
Case Study 5: Coastal Walkway Development In 1999, construction of the Coastal Walkway began with development of a small section in front of New Plymouth CBD, which was completed in time for the switching on of the Wind Wand. Sections to the east and west from Ngamotu Beach to Waiwhakaiho River were constructed and opened between 2001 and 2003, providing a seven kilometre walkway. In 2007, the Council and Ngati Tawhirikura Hapu signed a joint management agreement allowing public access across the historic Rewa Rewa Block and the extension of the Coastal Walkway to Bell Block. In 2008 the bridge across the Waiwhakaiho River and three kilometres of walkway from the river to Bell Block were constructed and eventually opened in 2010, increasing its length to 11 kilometres (with a $1.88m contribution from Land Transport New Zealand).
Use and demand of the walkway continues to grow and in 2012 the Council began planning for the next section of the walkway through Hickford Park and along Bell Block Beach. Local community interest in the route was high and a consultation process was undertaken. Local tangata whenua played an important role and assisted with a cultural and ecological impact assessment of the options. The end decision was to construct the primary Coastal Walkway on an inland route, away from sensitive areas, while other routes will form part of a wider pathway network. Top right: Barrett Lagoon, Barrett Domain Above: View of the Coastal Walkway Planning is continuing for extension of the walkway to Waitara, including consideration of a including the Len Lye Wind Wand route through the Future Urban Growth Area known as Area Q. Today the walkway is both Bottom right: Flax collection at Hickford a recreation space and one used by many in their daily commutes. Since 2008 usage has Park increased by 23 per cent and the walkway is consistently one of the top things that residents comment on as something the Council has done well in the annual resident survey1.
1 National Research Bureau Limited (2014). Communitrak survey – Public perceptions and interpretations of Council services and representation. Prepared for New Plymouth District Council.
Case Study 6: Hickford Park Flax Collection - Partnership with Tangata Whenua In 2013 the Council entered into an agreement with Kaitiaki Pa Harakeke Group. This agreement enabled the Rene Orchiston Harakeke Collection within Hickford Park to be maintained by the group with a view to enabling the division and distribution by the Council of Harakeke plants throughout New Plymouth District. The agreement also enabled the group to access plants for harvesting and weaving activities.
This case study is a good example of how collaborating with mana whenua can help preserve and protect open spaces within New Plymouth District that are rich in biodiversity values and cultural heritage.
October 2015 13 3. STRATEGIC DIRECTION
This section discusses the strategic direction of the strategy including the vision and the goals that the Council wants to achieve for the next 30 years.
3.1 our vision
‘Great spaces and places for an active and healthy community’
'Providing good quality recreation and open spaces that the public can enjoy and working together with community groups form the platform to achieve this vision’.
How well are our open spaces and facilities used? The 2014 NRB Survey found that 94 per cent of households have visited a park or reserve in the last 12 months. Fifty-eight per cent of households have visited a public swimming pool.
Right: East End Reserve Playground near the mouth of the Te Henui River
14 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy 3.2 strategic goals
To achieve this vision the Council strives to achieve six goals. 1. Our spaces are appropriately located
2. Our spaces make it easy to exercise, play, socialise and relax
3. Recreation and open space contributes to community identity, vibrancy and sense of place
4. Facilities encourage ease of participation and maximise spectator enjoyment
5. The delivery of sport and recreation is supported
6. Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected and easy to valued as an experience To achieve the goals, objectives have been identified that relate to actions in the action plan. These objectives are discussed under each goal. It also needs to be acknowledged that there are actions within other Council planning documents that are relevant to recreation and open space and will help contribute to achieving the Council’s goals. This strategy endorses the actions from these planning documents including the Heritage Strategy 2012, the Central Area Urban Design Framework 2013 and the Coastal Strategy 2006, asset management plans, the Events Strategy and the Regional Walkways and Cycleways Strategy for Taranaki 2007.
Children learn from sport and recreation Involvement in sport from an early age can help build character and discipline in children that can be applied to other aspects of their lives, e.g. learning skills such as hard work, self-esteem, good health and discipline.
October 2015 15 Goal 1: Our spaces are appropriately located
The Council plans, manages and maintains 1440 hectares of parks and reserves land, including 48 neighbourhood parks, 13 historic reserves and 24 sports parks used by residents and visitors.
Distance from houses to open space Currently within New Plymouth District, 86.7 per cent of dwellings are within 400 metres of a Council-owned open space and 89.26 per cent of dwellings are within 500 metres.
Iconic open spaces such as Pukekura Park, Hickford Park, Lake Mangamahoe, Barrett Domain and Lake Rotomanu are just a few examples of open spaces within New Plymouth that provide for a diversity of recreational activities. As well as providing open spaces it is equally important to ensure that they are well connected, to each other and/or by other networks such as roads, cycleways and along waterbodies and the coast, so they are accessible to the community. Geo-spatial analysis of our existing open spaces within urban areas has been undertaken and the mapping is provided in the Draft Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Background Document. The analysis identified specific areas within New Plymouth District and in Future Urban Growth Areas1, where there are gaps and/or oversupply in open space. It is therefore important that an appropriate and consistent decision-making framework is provided for open space across the district so that it is clear to the community what they can expect the Council to deliver. Building key partnerships with other councils including Stratford District Council, South Taranaki District Council and Taranaki Regional Council encourages a consistent decision-making framework for open space in the Left: Taranaki region Brooklands Park
1 Future Urban Growth Areas - those areas identified in the Council’s Future Framework for Growth Document (approved by the Council on 4 March 2008) that are anticipated to experience urban expansion within the district in the next 20 years.
16 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy What does the Council provide? Pathway networks • Forty-eight neighbourhood parks. • Support a secondary network of movement (walking and cycling) by providing open space • Twenty-four sports parks. that connects to places. • Thirteen historic reserves. • Prioritise connections alongside rivers, streams, the coast and between existing open spaces. • Other green spaces (esplanade reserves, esplanade strips and beautification strips that make up pathway networks). Civic spaces • Are provided in all new business/retail What do we want to achieve? developments. The following objectives will help the Council have a consistent decision-making framework for open space Cultural heritage and biodiversity spaces location and assist the process of prioritising the acquisition or disposal of open space where there are • Natural and cultural features will be considered gaps and/or oversupply. It also sets out how it is proposed when locating open spaces. to fund new open spaces within existing and future urban areas in New Plymouth District. Outdoor adventure spaces • Opportunities are made available for outdoor adventure recreation activities within existing open Objectives spaces. • Development will be provided for roads, tracks 1.1 Our open spaces create an attractive living and facilities for active outdoor recreation use environment. compatible with the management and use of the open space. Neighbourhood open spaces • Future land for outdoor recreation spaces will be • All urban households will be within a 10-minute considered as opportunities arise including areas walking distance radius, or 500 metres, of a associated with the Taranaki Traverse route which neighbourhood open space. will enhance journeys or local destinations. • The ideal average size of a neighbourhood open space shall be between 3,000m2 and 5,000m2. The categories above are an adaptation of the categories set out in the New Zealand Recreation Association (NZRA) • There will be road frontages across at least one ‘National New Zealand Park Categories and Levels of boundary to ensure the neighbourhood park is Service’ document, which sets out a recommended level easily accessible and provides an attractive, of service for open space provision for territorial authorities welcoming ambiance to the immediate local in New Zealand. community. These categories form part of the strategic criteria for land Sports and recreation open spaces purchase and disposal decisions. Other strategic criteria to consider include population trends, demographics of • Will be provided to a level that is appropriate to the community, proximity to other facilities (e.g. schools) meet the needs for winter and summer sport for and connectivity to existing infrastructure (e.g. stormwater, junior, senior, practice and competition levels. water, sewer etc). Location and site specific values • These open spaces will also provide a including strategy, ecological/natural values, historical/ neighbourhood function or informal use. cultural values and recreation and amenity values are also part of the decision-making framework. The full criteria are listed in Appendix One.
October 2015 17 What do we have already? 1.2 Growth that creates demand for new open space or upgrades to existing open Maps on the following pages show the location of where there are gaps and oversupply of open space in urban space is funded by contributions from land areas within the district, based on the proposed levels of development and subdivision. service and open space analysis. • Appropriate mechanisms are used for purchase and development of land for future open spaces, There are gaps and/or oversupply of open space within including financial contributions and development Okato, Oakura, New Plymouth Central, New Plymouth contributions. South, New Plymouth East, Bell Block, Waitara, Egmont Village and Inglewood. How these gaps and/or areas of oversupply were identified is discussed in the background document.
Other future possible acquisitions are also shown on the maps that have been identified as part of other Council processes (e.g. Central Area Urban Design Framework identified the need for a civic space within the eastern CBD area). Similarly, areas for possible disposal include those that the Council currently has on the land sales schedule or have been identified by another process.
How will we address gaps and oversupply?
To address the gap and/or oversupply locations identified it is proposed to: • Use set criteria for decision making when considering purchase or disposal of open spaces (Appendix One). • Investigate potential locations for new open spaces within structure plans, plan changes, subdivision development in the District Plan and use the key factors to assist decision-making on open space locations. • Include proposed open space areas using plan change processes in the District Plan. • Acquire land in future urban growth areas using financial contributions and development contributions. • Make recommendations to the Council for surplus land to be sold or developed for community consultation.
18 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Gaps, future possible acquisitions and oversupply of Open Space within New Plymouth
October 2015 19 20 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy October 2015 21 22 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy October 2015 23 24 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Goal 2: Our spaces make it easy to exercise, play, socialise and relax A secure and healthy strong and resilient community is of high importance to New Plymouth District and forms one of the seven community outcomes. Sport and recreation is well known to have positive benefits to physical and mental health. Such activities are often recreational and are undertaken within public recreation facilities and open spaces. Recent survey data shows that the Taranaki region has a high obesity rate for adults and children. It is therefore important that people have access to a range of recreation facilities and opportunities to enable people to make healthy choices. Recreational facilities should also be provided so they can be used by people of ‘all ages and abilities’. The 2013 Census data shows that New Plymouth District’s population is increasing, with the likelihood of an increasingly ageing population.
Recreational facilities in open spaces include walkways, skate parks, signage, seating, tables, playgrounds, shading areas, ramps, public artwork and monuments.
What does the Council provide? The Council currently provides: • Forty-eight playgrounds. • Twelve youth facilities (skate parks, skate ramps and basketball half courts). • Seventy-two kilometres of walkway. • Eleven kilometres of coastal walkway. • Signage, seating, tables and shading areas. Destination play spaces... Popular activities Te Henui Reserve The 2008 New Plymouth Open Space Survey found the Pukekura Park top three things people wanted from open space were walkways, beach access and events/concerts. Kawaroa Park The 2008/09 Active Survey found that walking is the Marine Park most popular sport and recreation activity for adults in Taranaki.
October 2015 25 What do we want to achieve? The objectives below support the ongoing provision of the asset types and includes new initiatives that are identified to help ensure that well-designed, quality open spaces and recreational facilities are prioritised and planned in appropriate locations.
Objectives
2.1 Recreation and open spaces are designed so they are affordable, attractive, pleasant and maintained with consideration for personal safety. • Consider the design and functionality of open Above: East End Skate Park spaces within the district through a best practice design guide. How often do young people participate in • Open spaces are adaptable to the changing informal recreation? needs of the community and are safe for people to use. Around seven out of 10 young people in the region spend three plus hours a week on informal sports/ • A low impact design approach is used to manage activities while “mucking around’ with friends, family or the use of open space, e.g. stormwater design on their own. Five to 10 year olds are more likely than considers cultural and biodiversity values with an 15 to 18 year olds to spend three plus hours a week aim of improving water quality. (Sport New Zealand, 2013).
• Open spaces will continue to be used for reticulation services where appropriate (e.g. 2.3 The quantity, location and quality of play stormwater, sewer and water reticulation). space equipment are strategically planned. 2.2 Accessible amenities are provided within • Assist all ages and cultures to be active and open spaces for all ages, cultures and healthy. abilities. • Be adaptive to the current community demand for • Facilitate community and recreational groups to new play spaces. deliver a range of activities for the community. • Increase the quality of destination play spaces • Amenities are easily accessible by a wide range of and rationalise "under-utilised" play spaces. users within the community, e.g. elderly, families, • Maintain a network of destination, community and children etc. neighbourhood play spaces as outlined in the New Plymouth District Play Space Framework. • Appropriate beach access points are clearly identifiable to discourage the increase in informal access. Health trends for children and adults The 2011-2013 NZ Health Survey found that the obesity rate for Taranaki children is 22.1 per cent (the national rate is 10.7 per cent). The obesity rate for Taranaki adults is 27.1 per cent. (The national rate for adults is 29.1 per cent). Currently one in 20 adults (5.0 per cent) in Taranaki have diagnosed diabetes (the national rate is 4.4 per cent).
26 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Above: New Plymouth Coastal Walkway (Fitzroy Beach)
2.4 Shared pathway networks are developed Where do people like to relax? for multiple uses along waterbodies and A 2013 survey found that the top three locations where the coast, so that they are easily accessed people in Taranaki like to engage in recreation are in by the community. the outdoor roadway/walkway in a city, the beach, river, (See Appendix Two to see New Plymouth's lake and the sea and in indoor sports facilities. existing shared pathways) A 2008 regional coast, rivers and lakes survey found • Public access is provided to the natural that Fitzroy Beach, Ngamotu Beach, Opunake Beach environment, including, rivers, lakes, the mountain and New Plymouth Coastal Walkway were the most and the coast to enable public enjoyment. frequently visited locations in the region. • Shared pathways provide opportunities for 2.5 Streetscapes1 are acknowledged as places commuter routes, mountain biking, equestrian and of recreation for walking and cycling and recreation with dogs. contribute to amenity. • The Taranaki Traverse (refer to New Plymouth District Blueprint key directions) is progressed • Streetscapes are designed with consideration as part of becoming a world-class destination in of walking and cycling through the use of the partnership with regional stakeholders. Council’s Code of Practice for Land Development and Subdivision and urban design protocol. • Street trees will continue to be planted and New Plymouth District's Future Shared maintained in accordance with the District Tree Pathways Policy. • Paper roads provide opportunities for recreation where there is community support.
1 Streetscapes include roadways and footpaths with associated landscaping.
October 2015 27 Goal 3: Open space, sports and recreation contributes to community identity, vibrancy and sense of place
Recreation and open spaces contribute significantly to the overall vibrancy, prosperity and sense of place of a community as they allow for a variety of activities to be undertaken that the community can experience and enjoy. Ensuring that recreation and open spaces are able to cater for recreational activities, public art and commercial use and events activities is important as it enables people to live within a vibrant community with abundant lifestyle options. Catering for a variety of activities means open spaces can have a positive impact on tourism and the local economy within New Plymouth District. Open spaces such as Pukekura Park and the TSB Bowl of Brooklands, Puke Ariki Landing and the Huatoki Plaza are examples of event venues, that have a positive economic impact on retail activities within New Plymouth District. Supporting a ‘sense of place’ has positive benefits as people are more likely to take care of open spaces, invest in open spaces, keep safe in open spaces and they feel attached to open spaces. A community’s ‘sense of place’ can be built by the community taking ownership of open spaces, while at the same time ensuring they are healthy, sustainable and well looked after. There are a number of ways the community can get involved in taking ownership of open spaces from participating in public consultation processes on projects to volunteering in parks and reserves and even reporting vandalism to the Council.
Sense of Place ‘Individuals' experiences create a memorable visual and physical image of these spaces and are based on a relationship between an area, the individual elements that make up that area, the patterns of use and activities that occur and the interaction with other people in an area.’ Left: Puke Ariki Landing
28 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy What does the Council provide? We have a great quality of life! The Council currently provides: Eighty-one per cent of residents think that overall the quality of life in the district is very good. The national • Community events and commercial activities in open average is 42 per cent. spaces e.g. TSB Bank Festival of Lights, WOMAD. Parks and reserves is the most highly rated Council • Public artwork and monuments. service (including the Coastal Walkway and Pukekura • Community orchards. Park). • Investment to communities, groups, individuals Ninety-six per cent of respondents are either very or and organisations within the district as part of the fairly satisfied with the quality of parks and reserves, Community Funding Investment Policy. including the Coastal Walkway and Pukekura Park. The national average is 60 per cent. • Opportunities for community engagement through planting days. Access to the natural environment is also highly rated (95 per cent). • A Community Gardens Policy that sets out how the Council will consider and support community groups Fifty-two per cent of respondents could identify who wish to start a community garden in public space. something the Council had done well in the last year (up from 49 per cent in 2013), with respondents mentioning the Coastal Walkway, events and entertainment, parks What do we want to achieve? and playgrounds.1 The objectives below support the ongoing provision of the above activities, including new initiatives that are identified as actions within the strategy. 1 (2014) Communitrak Survey for New Plymouth District Council – Public perceptions and interpretations of Council services and representation. Objectives
3.1 Recreation and open spaces cater for a 3.2 The contribution that open space, sport and diversity of activities that contribute to recreation have on the local economy is community identity, vibrancy and sense of recognised. place. • Open space provides opportunities for events and tourism that have economic spin-offs for local • Recreation and open spaces allow for a variety businesses. of activities including recreational activities and where appropriate commercial use activities and • Our iconic open spaces (e.g. Pukekura Park events. and the Coastal Walkway) make New Plymouth District an attractive place to live and visit. • Public art is located within open spaces that is appropriate to the site and the immediate and • The development of the Taranaki Traverse will surrounding environment and in accordance with consider marketing opportunities, including the Art in Public Places Strategy. collaboration with a regional gardens branding. • Open spaces and the activities within are places for the community to come together. Recreation has economic value Since 2003 WOMAD (World of Music and Dance) Festival, held at the Bowl of Brooklands in Pukekura Park has contributed $73 million to the Taranaki economy.
October 2015 29 3.3 To build partnerships with community groups to empower the public to look after open space. • Engage with and empower community groups to provide input into open space development and management and promote public participation and awareness of open spaces, e.g. schools, youth- orientated groups and workshops. • Communities are supported to take ownership and look after our open space.
• Community events educate the public about the district’s open spaces and increase the public’s awareness and a sense of place.
People have a sense of ‘pride’ within their community In 2013 the community contributed 10,424 volunteer hours to caring for, and enhancing the district environment, including community plantings and working bees in our parks.
Right: Coastal Walkway school planting
30 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Goal 4: Facilities encourage ease of participation and maximise spectator enjoyment
Good quality facilities are essential for providing a place and the infrastructure required for people to participate in sport and recreation. It is therefore important to provide facilities within open space to meet the demands of organised sports codes within New Plymouth District. These provide recreational opportunities for those people who consider playing sport as their preferred form of recreation. A key to effective facility management is ensuring that the appropriate quantity and quality of facilities are provided within recreation and open spaces. These should be sustainable, meet the needs of the community and help to create vibrant communities. This means ensuring sports codes make better use of existing Council-owned facilities. Building partnerships with other groups such as schools is one way the Council could utilise other facilities that meet the needs of the community.
Facilities include clubrooms, auxiliary buildings, swimming pools, sportsfields, public toilets, stadia for indoor and outdoor sports and community halls.
Building partnerships with schools can enable sports codes to share facilities and have a vibrant community.
Left: Waiwhakaiho Netball Courts
October 2015 31 What does the Council provide? A number of facilities are provided that enable the community to participate in sport and recreation within the New Plymouth District including: • TSB Stadium. • Twenty-four sports parks for sport and recreation. • Five swimming pools and learn to swim and fitness programmes. • Eleven community halls.
These facilities are positive for the community because Above: TSB Stadium they allow people to participate in sport and recreation, which contributes to their overall physical and mental well- Is there a need for facilities? being. Many sports codes require facilities for their sport. The above facilities are currently planned for and Participating in sport and recreation is important for: funded through the Long-Term Plan process which will determine the timing of future developments. Other sport • The overall physical and mental well-being of and recreation facilities are developed by other sporting people. organisations through lease arrangements issued by the Council under the Reserves Act 1977 and the Local • Reducing stress. Government Act 2002. • Increasing self-esteem. The Council is not the sole funder for sport and recreation • Developing leadership and life skills. within New Plymouth District. Funding trusts including TSB Community Trust and Taranaki Electricity Trust have a role • Creating stronger families. in funding sport and recreation. • Integrating diverse communities. Schools are also a provider of facilities within New Plymouth District. School facilities including sports fields, hockey turfs, netball courts and basketball courts People are happy with our facilities are used by various sporting codes. Ninety-five per cent of the public are satisfied that the Council provides high-quality community pools that encourage the community to participate in aquatic What do we want to achieve? activities. The objectives in this goal support the on-going provision Between 2009 and 2014 usage of the Todd Energy of the above facilities and provide for new initiatives that Aquatic Centre has been constant, ranging between will assist the Council in making decisions for facility 371,056 people (2009) and 370,731 people (2014) on provision to benefit the community. In most cases the an annual basis. facilities currently provided are sufficient.
32 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Above: Todd Energy Aquatic Centre Objectives What is a National Facility Strategy? National facility strategies are 4.1 Sports facilities are provided in open spaces prepared by national sports for community use. organisations with assistance from • Sports facilities are appropriately managed to Sport New Zealand to set out a encourage participation in sport. strategic direction for facility provision across the country for their sports • Sports facilities provide for a range of sporting code. needs.
4.2 New facilities or alterations to existing • Facilities are integrated by driving concepts facilities must meet key principles in such as the ‘sportsville model’. Facilities need to be ‘fit for purpose’ and sustainable. The most addition to lease requirements. effective way to achieve this is to create multi-use • Must have strong evidence that there is a facilities or to co-locate/’hub’ with other sport and demand and need for the facility. This can be recreation, community, education or transport achieved by identifying all users of the facility and facilities and infrastructure. demonstrating that the need for the facility aligns with the relevant national facility strategy. • Facilities are future proofed to suit the changing market and the future needs of the community. • Facilities are environmentally and financially Facilities should be designed to accommodate sustainable. This requires considering the ‘whole changing needs over time. This can be achieved of life’ costs of the facility at the outset, including by designing facilities that are adaptable, operating and maintenance costs of the facility developed and extended in response to future and how they will be funded. This also includes demands. governance structure/models. • Facilities are accessible to the community. • Facilities are used in partnership with other This can be achieved by providing facilities and stakeholder groups. This requires developing programmes within those facilities that take into partnerships with those outside the sector account the demographics and culture of the including education, iwi and the health and private community. sectors.
October 2015 33 4.3 Sports facilities and resources are shared Sportsville are partnership by sports codes in open spaces and where initiatives to bring sports clubs possible through partnerships with in one location together, sharing community groups. ideas, resources, knowledge • Buildings and resources are shared by sports and skills, and boosting sports codes within open spaces to ensure that sports participation. codes are sustainable and vibrant (the sportsville Sportsville can: model). • Attract new members. • Opportunities are explored to build partnerships with schools to allow sports codes to share • Offer new programmes. facilities. • Control operational costs by pooling resources (accounting, membership registration etc). 4.4 Facilities used by high performance teams • Share facilities. allow a high quality spectator experience and contribute towards the vibrancy of • Increase the capability of the clubs. New Plymouth and the economy. • Increase the vibrancy of communities, by clubs taking ownership of their own facilities and providing • Provide facilities that enable spectators to protection of the long-term future of the use of those experience and enjoy sport within the district. facilities.
4.5 Community halls are provided within urban areas where there is demand for indoor recreation and leisure.
• The Council currently provides 11 community halls, however it is important that the provision of these facilities is reviewed against demand. The demand for community halls will be monitored by keeping record of usage, and comparing this with the target set by the Council of 70 hours per month.
Above: TET Stadium, Inglewood
34 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Proposed situation and the Council’s role for facilities within New Plymouth District The table below shows the facility levels that are provided (LTP) process which will determine the level of funding and for different sports codes in the district and the Council’s timing of the project. role for each code. The ticks in each column show whether the facility is a local, district, regional or national/ The national facility strategies and regional and local international facility. The ticks shaded in blue show the studies for sports codes are used as a ‘best practice’ guide change in facility level resulting from a new facility or to determine what the future facility needs are. Figure 7 redevelopment. The Council's role in different facilities is within the Strategy Background Document provides set out in the right column. In many cases the Council is detailed information about the national facility the provider of open space and not the provider of built strategies, regional and local studies that have been facilities. used to determine what the Council’s role should be in facilities and what the facility needs are for Where the Council has a role in future projects, funding will New Plymouth District. need to be considered as part of a future Long-Term Plan
Sports code National/ Regional District Local Council’s Role International
Aquatic sports √ √ • Local district pools continue to be provided in (pool-based) Inglewood, Waitara, Okato and Fitzroy. The Council also operates the Todd Energy Aquatic Centre. • Continue to provide land for Bell Block Aquatic Centre, run by Bell Block Community Pool Society with an operational grant subject to the LTP. • Consider redevelopment of Todd Energy Aquatic Centre to meet unmet demand and community needs identified in the District Aquatic Study. Archery/shooting √ √ • Open space continues to be provided for two sports archery clubs at King Road and Ngamotu Domain and a location for a shooting hub will be investigated. Athletics √ √ √ √ • Continue to provide open space for a regional athletics stadium at Jubilee Park. • Sports parks are provided and maintained for community athletics. Bowls √ * √ √ √ • Support proposal for sustainable partnerships where the result would reduce the number of venues as recommended by the national strategy. Cricket √ √ √ √ • Pukekura Park continues to be provided and maintained as a premier national cricket venue. • Field space and space for additional wickets provided within existing sports parks in accordance with the Sports Parks Management Plan. Cycling sports √ √ √ √ • Open space for community mountain biking will continue to be provided. • District roads acknowledged as important for road cycling. • Open space provided at Hickford Park for regional and national facilities including road and track cycling and BMX. * When collaborating with many clubs to have multiple greens around Taranaki.
October 2015 35 Sports code National/ Regional District Local Council’s Role International Equestrian sports √ √ • Open spaces will continue to be provided for pony club grounds and arenas. • Acknowledge that Hawera is the regional and national facility for indoor equestrian. • Bridle trails will be considered when planning for the future network of shared pathways, including paper roads. • Consider equestrian competition facility needs as part of the Regional Facility Strategy and future master planning. Football √ √ √ • Open spaces will continue to be provided and maintained for full-sized and mini football community fields. • Provide input into a 'home of football' regional facility (which may not be on a Council-owned site). Golf √ • No additional golf facilities will be provided in accordance with the National Facility Strategy. • Support proposals that use Golf NZ hierarchy of golf facilities model, including facility transformations and mergers with community hubs. Gymsports √ √ • Provide space at Pukekohe Domain for Waitara Gymsports until a facility proposal is developed. • Support proposal for relocation of Waitara Gymsports facility. Hockey √ √ √ • No current role. • Consider a new hockey turf at a time when sufficient need/demand is demonstrated at levels recommended by the National Facility Strategy. • Support projects that allow entry-level hockey to be played on multi-sport surfaces. Horse racing √ √ • Open space will continue to be provided for the Pukekura Raceway. Indoor sports √ √ √ √ • Continue to provide indoor facilities that meet community needs and use targets. • Continue to provide land for YMCA Stadium with an operational grant subject to the LTP. • A regional stadium facility be developed at TSB Stadium with an additional three courts to meet community sport demand and enable national tournaments to be held. Motorsport √ √ √ √ • Open space will continue to be provided for Taranaki Radio Car Control Club. • Open space will continue to be provided for the Todd Energy Raceway in Waitara. Netball √ √ √ √ • Open space for two satellite venues continues to be provided at Trimble Park and Clifton Park. • A total of 16 (10 outdoor, six indoor) multi-use courts provided at a central location as part of the TSB Stadium Development project.
36 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Sports code National/ Regional District Local Council’s Role International Rugby √ √ √ √ • Sportsfields provided and maintained for rugby at sports parks. • Yarrow Stadium (owned by Taranaki Stadium Trust) will continue to be supported and maintained as the premier international stadium. Rugby league √ √ √ √ • Sportsfields will continue to be provided and maintained for rugby league at sports parks. • Open space is provided for the development of one or more additional community fields within existing sports parks. Skate sports √ √ √ • Open space will continue to be provided for a club- owned regional skating rink facility. Softball √ √ √ • Open space will continue to be provided and maintained for a softball diamond. • Open space will be provided for a second softball diamond at Hickford Park. Squash √ √ √ √ • Open space continues to be provided for squash facilities in New Plymouth, Okato and Inglewood, including YMCA courts. Surfing √ √ √ √ • Open space continues to be provided that enables public access to surf breaks and acknowledge nationally and regionally significant surf breaks, including Waiwhakaiho Surf life saving √ √ • Open space continues to be provided for surf life savings clubs at Oakura, East End and Fitzroy. Tennis √ √ • Local community needs will be determined by working with clubs at a regional level. √ √ • Options for increased public use of courts will be investigated. • Work with the tennis community to determine the potential for multi-use courts as part of the TSB Stadium redevelopment project. Triathlon/multi- √ √ √ √ • Provision of open space to hold events and off- sport/running/ road pathways for training and events. orienteering Water sports √ √ • Open space continues to be provided for clubs/ storage facilities adjoining water bodies, i.e. Clifton Rowing Club. The table above shows that the sports codes that may • Netball. Should the redevelopment of the TSB Stadium experience the most significant change include: proceed, it is anticipated that facility needs could be met at a local, district, regional and national level. • Cycling sports. It is expected that a BMX facility will be available at Hickford Park that can cater for • Football. The proposal to have a ‘central home of activities and events at local, district, regional and football’ that may be used at local, district and regional national levels. levels for training and events. • Tennis. It is expected that there will be a change • Indoor sports. Should the TSB Stadium from a local facility to at least a local and a district- redevelopment proceed it is expected that a facility wide facility, as part of the proposed TSB Stadium could be made available for events at national, redevelopment, should it proceed. regional, district and local levels.
October 2015 37 Goal 5: The delivery of sport and recreation is supported
While a primary role of the Council is to provide and manage recreation and open spaces and facilities, it is also important to provide support to the users within these spaces and in particular sports clubs, as they have a key role in creating healthy communities. It is also well known that participation trends and the culture of sport are changing, which creates challenges for club facility management and sport delivery at a local level. The change and challenges include fewer volunteers, ageing facilities and increasing costs for clubs. In some cases club membership numbers are declining, however research is showing in general they are static across most codes1. There is a need now, more than ever, for key stakeholders including funders, national sports organisations, regional sports organisations, regional sports trusts, sports clubs, schools and territorial authorities to collaborate and provide support to sports clubs in local communities to ensure sport is delivered in a way that creates vibrant communities. The Council works closely with the regional sports trust, Sport Taranaki, which has a significant role in providing support to sports organisations at different levels. The major trusts that fund sport within the Taranaki region include TSB Community Trust and the Taranaki Electricity Trust.
1 Refer to Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Background Document to find out what challenges sports clubs are currently facing and what the implications are for facility provision.
38 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy What does the Council provide? Participation by young people (aged five to The Council currently supports the delivery of sport and 18 years) recreation by: The 2013 Young People Survey found that nine out of • Providing annual financial support to Sport Taranaki to 10 young people participate in some form of sport and help deliver sport and recreation to local communities. recreation. • Issuing concessional leases for community activities More than 60 per cent of young people belong to a within open spaces. school sports team. • Supporting community sporting events within recreation Around nine out of 10 young people spend three plus and open spaces, which helps promote community hours a week taking part in sport and recreation. participation in sports and recreation. The top four most popular activities for young people • Providing facilities to the community for sport and are swimming, running/jogging, rugby/rippa rugby and recreation and subsidising the use of these through the cycling/biking. Council’s Revenue and Financing Policy. • Funding sports organisations through the Community Funding Investment Policy. Participation by adults (16 plus years) The 2013 NZ Health Survey shows that only four out of 10 adults are ‘physically active’ (i.e. they met physical activity guidelines in the last seven days). Teenagers are dropping off in sport and Three out of 10 adults are volunteers. recreation (15 to 18 years) The top three activities in Taranaki are swimming, The 2013 Sport New Zealand Young People survey cycling/biking, and fishing. suggests that teenagers spend less time playing sport, Participation levels have been maintained for the last but have an interest in rugby, basketball, football (boys), 10 years. netball, volleyball and badminton (girls). A quarter of adults belong to sports clubs. What do we want to achieve? Objectives The objectives in this goal support the ongoing provision of the above activities and provide for new initiatives that will support the delivery of sport and recreation within 5.1 The Council will work with sports codes to Taranaki. help achieve sustainable governance and The Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy management of facilities. Background Document discusses the current situation of how the Council provides support to the delivery of sport • Council resources are made available to and recreation, key trends in sport and recreation and the encourage and support sports clubs in managing current challenges that the Council and community face. and sharing facilities with other sports clubs. • Together with key partners new models for management will be investigated.
October 2015 39 5.2 The Council's support to sport and recreation is delivered on the principles of Building partnerships equity, sustainability and efficiency for the with sports clubs, sporting codes and the Council. schools, regional • The level of public/private benefit of the Council's facilities and services determines user charges sports trusts and and subsidies. The public and private benefit of facilities is determined through the Council's regional sports Revenue and Financing Policy. A review of this organisations can policy is an opportunity to consider all facilities subsidisation. of sports codes and equity between provide support to codes. ensure that children and • The Council collaborates with sports codes to determine the role of the Council in funding/ adults can participate in subsidy of sport and equity between codes. community sport. 5.3 There is strong collaboration with Sport Taranaki, regional sports organisations, clubs and schools to improve the delivery of People in Taranaki like volunteering community sport. The 2013 Sport New Zealand Young People survey found that four out of 10 young people (10 to 18 year • Ensuring the Council has strong relationships olds) in the Taranaki region said they had volunteered in with key stakeholders is important to enable one or more of nine roles (e.g. coach/assistant coach, the delivery of community sport that meets the team/assistant manager, club administrator, referee/ changing and varied needs of existing and future official, helper, team captain and physical activity participants in sport. leader). • A strategic partnership will be investigated formed with Sport Taranaki. The 2013 Gemba Survey found that 23 per cent of the sample population (257 people) volunteer in sport • Where the Council does deliver programmes and recreation in Taranaki. Parent helpers, coaches/ within facilities, collaboration and partnerships teachers/trainers/instructors and referees/judges/ with other sport and recreation organisations will officials or umpires are the three most common be explored. volunteer types in Taranaki. • Monitoring of sport and recreation trends will The challenge is providing support to maintain these continue. volunteering levels, and encouraging young people to 5.4 Sport is acknowledged and celebrated as a continue volunteering into adulthood. tool for community development • Support is provided to sports clubs to deliver initiatives that bring communities together and ensure that people actively participate across many facets of sport including volunteering, Barriers to participation in sport and coaching and supporting. recreation The 2013 Gemba Survey found that the top three barriers to people participating in sport and recreation in Taranaki are: • Cost of participating. • Time required to do sport/activity. • Not having equipment to participate.
40 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Goal 6: Our biodiversity and cultural heritage is protected and easy to valued as an experience New Plymouth District is rich in biodiversity. Our open spaces are guardians of many of the district's key biodiversity assets and are characterised by areas of indigenous vegetation cliffs and rocky shores, beaches, estuaries and river mouths, wetlands, rivers, streams and lakes. Iconic open spaces such as Pukekura Park (Green Flag award recipient 2013), Hickford Park, Lake Mangamahoe and Barrett Domain are rich in biodiversity both on a natural and a man-made level, with biodiversity values contributing to their iconic status. Mount Taranaki is a major biodiversity resource of the district, from which many of our rivers and streams flow to the coast. The coastline and beaches are high in natural character and ecological value. Many of our local parks are green corridors providing connections for biodiversity. Many of the parks and reserves in the district have significant biodiversity values, including bush remnants at Sheppard’s Bush, Waipu Lagoons at Hickford Park and Mangati Walkway to name a few. It is important that biodiversity is maintained in our open spaces not only from an environmental perspective but also to encourage prosperity in the district. The health and environmental values within our open space contribute to the district’s sense of place and the health and well-being of the community. Cultural heritage in the context of this strategy describes the natural and man-made resources, which contribute to an understanding and appreciation of New Zealand’s history and cultures. Council-managed open spaces contain large amounts of historical and cultural heritage that need to be identified, protected, appreciated and made available to be experienced (where it is appropriate to do so). It is important to note that heritage takes many forms including built heritage, natural heritage and cultural heritage1.
1 Built heritage. The legacy of man-made buildings, structures and objects and associated intangible attributes. Natural heritage. The legacy of natural places, objects and intangible attributes encompassing the rural and natural environment, including the district’s biodiversity, flora and fauna. Cultural heritage. The objects and artefacts, as well as the language, stories, customs, protocols, knowledge and skills that communities, groups and individuals recognise as part of their cultural heritage.
Left: Indigenous vegetation in Pukekura Park
October 2015 41 What does the Council provide? Biodiversity The Council’s current role: ‘...the variety of biological life – plants, • Owns and manages13 historic reserves, reserves with bush remnants and esplanade reserves and strips. animals, fungi and even micro-organisms, it describes the diversity of ecosystems • Develops reserve management plans to protect on land, in water and in the ocean. It and maintain biodiversity and heritage values within recreation and open space. is a term that encapsulates the whole diversity on earth including the diversity • Esplanade reserves, esplanade strips and within species, and between species, beautification strips are acquired through the implementation of the District Plan under the Resource from their genetic diversity to the 1 Management Act 1991. ecosystems they live in’ • Implements strategies that carry out functions of regional plans under the Biosecurity Act 1993 including the Pest Animal Strategy, Pest Plant Strategy and Heritage the Regional Biodiversity Strategy (this includes ‘...is that which is inherited from past and Biodiversity Plans). current generations, cared for in the What do we want to achieve? present and handed on for the benefit The objectives in this goal support the activities that the of future generations, and includes built, Council wants to continue, including some proposed new natural and cultural heritage’ initiatives.
1 New Plymouth District Council (2012). Heritage Strategy. (Author).
Above: Tukotahi Sculpture, Puke Ariki Landing Above: Devon Road Beautification Strip
42 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Objectives Building partnerships with 6.1 Work in collaboration with key partners the Taranaki Biodiversity and agencies on biodiversity and cultural Accord, biodiversity groups, heritage management of open spaces. Department of Conservation, • Work collaboratively with tangata whenua and heritage organisations to protect sites of historic tangata whenua and and cultural significance, and utilise existing local community groups that care cultural heritage knowledge of open spaces for open space developments. about the environment. • It is important to collaborate with tangata whenua on open space developments that may have an impact on cultural values.
• The Council continues to uphold existing partnership arrangements with tangata whenua (e.g. Memorandums of Understanding with Te Runanga o Ngati Mutunga and the Te Rewa Rewa Agreement with Ngati Tawhirikura) and the Taranaki Biodiversity Forum Accord, which sets out a strategic vision, desired outcomes, priorities and actions for biodiversity across Taranaki.
It is noted that objective 3.3 covers partnerships with community groups which also contribute to Goal 6.
Threatened Species Taranaki has 70 native animal species and 99 native plant species that are identified as threatened, at risk, or regionally distinctive.
October 2015 43 6.2 Biodiversity and cultural heritage The Council has formalised values are protected and enhanced by maintaining, enhancing and developing partnerships with tangata green corridors and spaces in the district to whenua through memorandums link the mountain to the sea, and provide for linkages across the coast of understanding and • Continue to acquire esplanade reserves and agreements. Examples of current esplanade strips in accordance with the District Plan as a way of extending ecological corridors agreements include Memorandum of and linking the mountain to the sea and along the coast. Understanding with Ngati Mutunga • The need to protect biodiversity is balanced with and the Te Rewa Rewa Agreement with providing access and recreational activities to the Ngati Tawhirikura Hapu. open spaces that the community value. Reserve management plans are one example of how these values are balanced. • Information about biodiversity and cultural • Connecting biodiversity areas enhances the heritage is made easily accessible to the health of biodiversity within open spaces in the community where appropriate, e.g. signage, district. website information, Puke Ariki collection. • Expert advice and local knowledge is used to • Continue holding community events in assess the impacts of open space developments collaboration with community groups that allow the on the ecological and cultural heritage values of public to experience and learn about biodiversity open space, and this advice is used for proactive and cultural heritage in open spaces. conservation planning. The type of assessment • Open spaces within the Taranaki region that are and reporting is dependent on the location and ecologically significant are promoted. scale of open space development. • A range of tools is used for effective management 6.4 Monitor and gather information on to ensure that biodiversity within open spaces are biodiversity in open spaces and use this to healthy. provide better management of open spaces. • See Appendix Three to see how the district's • Continue active monitoring programmes to indigenous vegetation cover has changed over ensure there is an appropriate understanding of time prior to human settlement. biodiversity values in our open spaces. There is an opportunity to work with existing agencies to 6.3 the community has an enhanced gather information and improve management of appreciation of the biodiversity and open spaces. historic and cultural heritage within our open spaces. • Enable the public to experience our natural and physical environment within our open spaces to build a sense of place within the community.
44 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy 4. STRATEGIC ACTIONS and monitoring
The actions from this strategy will be included in, and delivered through, the New Plymouth Blueprint Implementation Plan. The advantage of an integrated implementation plan is that all actions are then matrixed against each other and other key directions to determine priority, delivery mode and agency responsibility. Priorities are determined to maximise efficiencies and to achieve multi-wins. This will ensure the Council is not undertaking ad hoc decision making. Actions will be integrated into the Council’s long term planning, district plan review and ultimately how it delivers services to the community. The Implementation Plan will have associated monitoring and evaluation and regular reports to the Council on progress. This strategy's success can also be evaluated by the performance of targets set in the Long-Term Plan. In the Long-Term Plan 2015-2025 targets are set for performance measures associated with open space, sport and recreation including: • Percentage of community satisfied with the quality of the district’s parks and reserves. • Percentage of community satisfied with the quality of the district’s sports parks. • Percentage of households living within 500 metres of a neighbourhood open space. • Percentage of residents satisfied with the swimming facilities and staff service. • Number of attendees and events/bookings across all venues is maintained or increased where possible. This strategy will be reviewed every five years.
Left: New Plymouth Coastal Walkway
October 2015 45 6. GLOSSARY
Term Definition Public open space Land and water areas available to the public for sport, recreational, cultural, conservation and leisure purposes. Recreation An activity done for pleasure or relaxation that refreshes and recreates. It revitalises your body and mind by means of some pastime, sport, agreeable exercise, play, games or hobbies. Sport A type of organised physical recreation where there are standards, rules and competitions. Biodiversity The variety of biological life – plants, animals, fungi and even micro-organisms, of ecosystems on land, in water and in the ocean. Natural heritage The legacy of natural places, objects and intangible attributes encompassing the rural and natural environment, including the district’s biodiversity. Waahi tapu sites A site identified by tangata whenua or the New Zealand Heritage List as being waahi tapu to tangata whenua as identified on the planning maps. Significant Natural Areas An area of indigenous vegetation or a habitat of indigenous fauna that meets the criteria in Schedule 21.1 and is identified in Schedule 21.2 or Table 21.3 of Appendix 21 in the New Plymouth District Plan. Except that, no vegetation that has regenerated since this plan was notified shall be regarded as a Significant Natural Area. Future Urban Growth Areas Those areas identified in the Land Supply and Framework for Growth approved by the Council in 2008. Esplanade strips A strip of land created by the registration of an instrument in accordance with Section 232 for a purpose or purposes set out in Section 229 of the Resource Management Act 1991. Historical and cultural heritage The natural and physical resources that contribute to an understanding and appreciation of New Zealand’s history and cultures. Waahi tapu Places or things that are sacred or spiritually endowed and include, but are not limited to, pa, area (tracks), urupa, battle sites and tauranga waka (canoe landings). Outstanding Landscapes Landscapes within the district having exceptional value or eminence or distinction on a national scale and identified as an ‘Outstanding Landscape’ on the planning maps. Outstanding Natural Features Natural geological sites and landforms that are listed as being of international scientific importance or of national scientific, educational or aesthetic importance in the Inventory of Important Geological Sites and Landforms in the Taranaki and Wanganui regions. Notable trees A tree or group of trees considered significant for their historical, botanical, landscape, amenity or cultural values, that meet criteria listed in sections 13.1 and 13.3, Appendix 13 in the New Plymouth District Plan. Notable trees have been assigned as either Category 1 or Category 2 as described in section 13.2 of Appendix 13. Notable trees are identified on the planning maps. Priority water bodies Those water bodies identified as being important for natural character or public recreation and access purposes, as identified in Appendix 18 in the New Plymouth District Plan. Priority water bodies are identified on the planning maps.
46 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy 7. BIBLIOGRAPHY
1. Taranaki Regional Council (2008). Biodiversity Strategy: an operational strategy to guide biodiversity actions of the Taranaki Regional Council. 2. National Research Bureau Limited (2014). Communitrak Survey – Public perceptions and interpretations of Council services and representation. Prepared for New Plymouth District Council. 3. New Plymouth District Council (2012). Heritage Strategy. 4. New Plymouth District Council (2012). New Plymouth Cemeteries Management Plan. 5. New Plymouth District Council (2006). New Plymouth Coastal Strategy. 6. New Plymouth District Council (2012). Heritage Strategy.
7. New Plymouth District Council (2013). New Plymouth Central Area Urban Design Framework. 8. New Zealand Recreation Association (2012). National New Zealand Park Categories. Xyst Limited. 9. Sport New Zealand (2013). Sport New Zealand Community Sports Strategy 2010 – 2015. 10. Sport New Zealand (2013). Sport and Recreation in the Lives of Young New Zealanders: Sport Taranaki Profile. Wellington.
Left: Te Rewa Rewa Bridge
October 2015 47
APPENDICES
October 2015 49 Appendix One: Criteria for determining land purchase or disposal of open space
Criteria have been developed to help make decisions around purchasing or disposing of land for open space purposes. The criteria developed indicate what elements of open space are important and have a strategic, ecological, historical and cultural, recreational and cost focus. The criteria are listed in the table below. Criteria 1. Strategic values Does the land: • Or is the land needed, to achieve the defined open space levels of service or facility development? • Offer a linkage between other open spaces, schools, streets, another community asset (e.g. stormwater, water, sewer services) or a water body? • Appear in another Council strategy or plan, i.e. the District Plan, Cycling Strategy, Coastal Strategy, Central Area Urban Design Framework? • Fulfil another perceived need of the community or is it required for another Council purpose (e.g. sewer)? • Meet the needs of population trends and demographics of the community that it may serve?
2. Ecological/natural values Does the land: • Contain significant landforms? • Offer protection of locally, regionally or nationally significant natural habitats, for flora and fauna? • Help sustain a “carbon sink”? • Meet a need identified in Taranaki Regional Council’s Biodiversity Strategy or the New Zealand Biodiversity Strategy and Statement of National Priorities for Protecting Rare and Threatened Native Biodiversity? • Provide opportunities to improve water quality (i.e. Riparian Strips)? • Provide for the maintenance or restoration of linear or ‘stepping stone’ linkages and networks for indigenous species within the district generally and between natural areas of significance?
3. Historical and cultural values Does the land: • Contain a waahi tapu or other historical site? • Associate with historically or culturally significant individuals, events or stories and offer opportunities for open space users to learn about the history and culture associated with the open space? • Offer access to cultural resources? • Is public ownership the most appropriate land ownership structure?
4. Recreation and amenity values Does the land: • Offer recreation opportunities and fulfil an identified need in the community? • Contribute to the amenity of the area or provide a buffer between development? 5. Costs • What is the cost of acquisition/disposal? • What are the ongoing costs for owning and maintaining the land?
50 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Once an assessment against the criteria has been made and values of the land determined, these need to be balanced with one another and a decision about the acquisition or disposal needs to be made. The decision matrix below provides a guide to decision making with four scenarios with different outcomes based on the level of values held by the land. Decision Matrix High strategic Low strategic High biodiversity/cultural or recreational values High or low biodiversity/cultural/recreational High purchase and/or ongoing maintenance values costs Acquire land - retain Consider other land ownership/protection options
Low strategic Low strategic High biodiversity/cultural or recreational values Low biodiversity, cultural or recreational values Low purchase and/or ongoing maintenance costs Do not purchase – dispose of land Consider land acquisition options/consider retaining
The following examples demonstrate how the above matrix should be applied: • A piece of bush land is included within a subdivision development. The bush land is not connected with any other existing future reserve land and is determined to have low strategic value. The bush has high ecological and natural values, however due to the low strategic values the decision matrix suggess other land ownership/protection options should be considered. The result is a consent condition requiring a QE11 covenant. • Decision-making is often required to retain or dispose an existing Council-owned reserve that is currently grazed. The reserve is considered against the defined open space levels of service together with other Council strategies or plans and the conclusion is made that it is not required to meet open space needs. The reserve is then assessed for ecological, historical/cultural and recreational values and these are also found to be low. The decision matrix therefore suggests that the Council should dispose of the land and the land sales process (which includes community consultation) should be initiated. Acquisition - land ownership options Once the Council has identified a need to acquire open space the Council then needs to consider: • Whether land ownership is the best option to achieve open space objectives. Could it be met in another way, such as acquisition of an easement? • Whether there are any potential partnership approaches for land ownership and management. • Whether land should be vested as a reserve or remain freehold. Before deciding the land status the Council needs to consider the long-term purpose and strategic value of the land. Once land has been given reserve status it can potentially be a lengthy process to revoke or change this. • If the land is to be vested in the Council as a reserve, the relevant reserve classification needs to be considered.
October 2015 51 Appendix Two: New Plymouth's Existing Shared Pathways
LET’S GO EXPLORE 0km 1km 2km Wanaka N Scale Glasgow St Jules Cr Willis Rd
Dillon Dr
Mangati Rd
New Plymouth Shared Pathways Parkvue Hickford Park Smeaton Rd
Sunnyvale St Lantana
Ellesmere AvGlamis Av Coby Sydney
Gardenia Av Roads Parklands Ave
Wynyard St
Off Road Shared Pathways Hua St Penrod Dr WAITARA
Links Dr Cycle Lanes On Road Nugent St Devon Rd Suggested Cycle/Walking Route Paraite Rd MANGATI Tracks - gravel, grass/ground or steps Connett Rd WALKWAY Accessways - some with steps De Havilland Dr Paraite Rd Streams/Rivers Pohutukawa Pl Paraite Rd Devon Rd
Henwood Rd Puni St
Fitzroy Rd RichmondNewton St St Record St
Sackville St Vickers Rd
Beach St Clemow Rd
Henwood Rd
Constance St Barriball St Rifle Range Rd McLean St Devon Rd COASTALHobson St Paynters Av WALKWAY Baring
Northgate Atiawa St Buller St Eliot St Devon St East
Mangorei Rd Molesworth St Egmont Rd Watson St Smart Rd Gill St Hobson St Queen St Egmont Currie Courtenay St Rimu St Ariki St Hine St Leach St Belt Rd St Aubyn St Liardet St Lismore StWAIWHAKAIHO Cutfield Rd Young St Lemon St Warangi St WALKWAY Brougham Birdwood Av Dawson St Powderham St Hendrie St Waiwhakaiho River Devon St West Pendarves St Coronation Ave
Riversdale Dr Robe St Gaine St Gilbert St Karaka St Vivian St Fillis St Breakwater Rd St Aubyn St
Fulford St Victoria Rd Morley St Awanui St
Lorna St Kauri St TE HENUI Nevada Dr WALKWAY Frank Wilson
Pioneer Rd South Rd Devon St West Seaview Rd Pukekura Timandra St Centennial Dr Barrett St Park Bayly Rd HUATOKI Wallace Pl WALKWAY Ngamotu Rd Turakina St Mill Rd
Herekawe Maratahu St Dorset Ave St Carrington Yarrow Belair Ave Stadium Brooklands Rd David St Truby King St Tukapa St Taranaki Sanders Av Cumberland St
Ngamotu Rd Hospital South Rd Base MANGAOTUKU Cook St Banks St Seaview Rd WALKWAY Smith Rd
Mangorei Rd Kaimata St Centennial Dr Frankley Rd Clawton St Cornwall St
Pembroke St Pembroke Manadon St Wrantage St Omata Rd Heta Rd Coronation Ave Omata Rd Huatoki St Upjohn St Glenpark Ave Glenpark Hori St Karina Rd Junction St Poplar Gr Huatoki St Carrington St
South Rd WaimeaPembroke St St Brois St Branch Rd Tukapa St
Govett Ave
Junction Rd Ainslee St Wallath Rd William St Beach Rd Carrington St
Barrett Rd
Fernleigh St Huatoki St Doralto Rd
Montrose Pl
Roto St
Frankley Rd Woodleigh
Davies Rd Cres Manu
Cowling Rd Govett Ave
Frankley Rd
Waterlea Rd Omata OAKURA School
52 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy LET’S GO EXPLORE 0km 1km 2km Wanaka N Scale Glasgow St Jules Cr Willis Rd
Dillon Dr
Mangati Rd
New Plymouth Shared Pathways Parkvue Hickford Park Smeaton Rd
Sunnyvale St Lantana
Ellesmere AvGlamis Av Coby Sydney
Gardenia Av Roads Parklands Ave
Wynyard St
Off Road Shared Pathways Hua St Penrod Dr WAITARA
Links Dr Cycle Lanes On Road Nugent St Devon Rd Suggested Cycle/Walking Route Paraite Rd MANGATI Tracks - gravel, grass/ground or steps Connett Rd WALKWAY Accessways - some with steps De Havilland Dr Paraite Rd Streams/Rivers Pohutukawa Pl Paraite Rd Devon Rd
Henwood Rd Puni St
Fitzroy Rd RichmondNewton St St Record St
Sackville St Vickers Rd
Beach St Clemow Rd
Henwood Rd
Constance St Barriball St Rifle Range Rd McLean St Devon Rd COASTALHobson St Paynters Av WALKWAY Baring
Northgate Atiawa St Buller St Eliot St Devon St East
Mangorei Rd Molesworth St Egmont Rd Watson St Smart Rd Gill St Hobson St Queen St Egmont Currie Courtenay St Rimu St Ariki St Hine St Leach St Belt Rd St Aubyn St Liardet St Lismore StWAIWHAKAIHO Cutfield Rd Young St Lemon St Warangi St WALKWAY Brougham Birdwood Av Dawson St Powderham St Hendrie St Waiwhakaiho River Devon St West Pendarves St Coronation Ave
Riversdale Dr Robe St Gaine St Gilbert St Karaka St Vivian St Fillis St Breakwater Rd St Aubyn St
Fulford St Victoria Rd Morley St Awanui St
Lorna St Kauri St TE HENUI Nevada Dr WALKWAY Frank Wilson
Pioneer Rd South Rd Devon St West Seaview Rd Pukekura Timandra St Centennial Dr Barrett St Park Bayly Rd HUATOKI Wallace Pl WALKWAY Ngamotu Rd Turakina St Mill Rd
Herekawe Maratahu St Dorset Ave St Carrington Yarrow Belair Ave Stadium Brooklands Rd David St Truby King St Tukapa St Taranaki Sanders Av Cumberland St
Ngamotu Rd Hospital South Rd Base MANGAOTUKU Cook St Banks St Seaview Rd WALKWAY Smith Rd
Mangorei Rd Kaimata St Centennial Dr Frankley Rd Clawton St Cornwall St
Pembroke St Pembroke Manadon St Wrantage St Omata Rd Heta Rd Coronation Ave Omata Rd Huatoki St Upjohn St Glenpark Ave Glenpark Hori St Karina Rd Junction St Poplar Gr Huatoki St Carrington St
South Rd WaimeaPembroke St St Brois St Branch Rd Tukapa St
Govett Ave
Junction Rd Ainslee St Wallath Rd William St Beach Rd Carrington St
Barrett Rd
Fernleigh St Huatoki St Doralto Rd
Montrose Pl
Roto St
Frankley Rd Woodleigh
Davies Rd Cres Manu
Cowling Rd Govett Ave
Frankley Rd
Waterlea Rd Omata OAKURA School
October 2015 53 Appendix Three: New Plymouth District Play Space Framework
This framework supports the Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy Objective 2.3 “The quantity, location and quality of play space equipment is strategically planned” and the directly related initiative of “Maintain a network of destination, community and neighbourhood play spaces as outlined in the New Plymouth District Play Space Framework”. Play spaces are defined as areas within parks or reserves that facilitate play through the provision of play equipment or structures such as skate parks.
Playground categories Destination play spaces Premium play spaces for the whole district that are a major attraction (or within a major attraction/destination) for residents and visitors. These play spaces are typically the largest in the district and have several components catering to all ages. The design aims to have a unique element at each. Community play spaces Premium play spaces serving a small town or wide catchment area or wide range of users (i.e. local residents and sports park/beach users), often comprising both playground equipment and a skatepark. These play spaces typically have a feature piece of equipment such as a modular unit as well as other stand alone items. Neigbourhood play spaces Play spaces for residents in the immediate and close-by neighbourhoods. These play spaces typically have only a few stand alone pieces of equipment or small skate area.
Play space development guidelines • Redevelopment of destination or community play spaces that are above the value of replacement of the existing, are funded through a partnership model with funding contributed from the Council and an external party. • Play space development in new growth areas will be funded from financial contributions. • The Council’s funding of play spaces is subject to long-term plan and annual plan budgets. • New play spaces, relocations, upgrades or retirements will be undertaken in consultation with the local community. • All new and redeveloped play spaces will be designed to meet New Zealand Playground Surfacing and Equipment Standard. • Accessibility and Crime Prevention through Environmental Design (CPTED) guidelines will be considered as part of play space development.
Location guidelines • Destination play spaces are located where they become major attractions or are within an existing attraction for residents, visitors and tourists, e.g. Brooklands Zoo. • Community play spaces locations will take into account existing support facilities such as toilets and parking and ease of access for the whole community. They will often be located beside another community amenity such as a sports park, local beach or camping ground.
54 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy • Neighbourhood play spaces locations are determined with consideration of: - Proximity to another play space (including schools). - Accessibility, considering barriers such as main roads, access to transport. - Suitability of site – road frontage and good surveillance. - Demographics of area, e.g. number of children (while acknowledging grandparents are high users of neighbourhood play spaces). Destination play spaces Ten destination play spaces will be maintained or redeveloped when required 1. Pukekura Park playground. 2. Brooklands Zoo playground. 3. Ngamotu Beach playground which will be relocated from under the trees and redeveloped. 4. Kawaroa playground. 5. Coastal Walkway (Wind Wand) playground (which may need to be relocated in five years if lease of the land is not renewed). 6. East End playground. 7. East End skate park. 8. Shearer Reserve playground and skate park. 9. Marine Park playground and skate park. 10. Jubilee playground and skate park. Community play spaces Fifteen community play spaces will be maintained or redeveloped when required 1. Okato playground and skate park. 2. Hickford Park playground and skate park. 3. Urenui Domain playground. 4. Glenpark Avenue playground. 5. Onaero Domain playground. 6. Fitzroy Beach playground. 7. Waitara West Quay playground. 8. Yandle Park playground. 9. Onuku Taipari playground. 10. Lynmouth Park playground. 11. Rogan Street playground. 12. Merrilands Domain playground. 13. Peringa Park playground. 14. Vogeltown Park playground. 15. Sutherland Park playground. Neighbourhood play spaces Seventeen neighbourhood play spaces will be maintained or redeveloped when required 1. Poplar Grove playground. 2. Marfell Park skate park. 3. Wallace Place playground. 4. Turi Street playground. 5. Kenmore Street Reserve playground.
October 2015 55 6. Maui Place playground. 7. Glen Avon Park playground. 8. Urenui skate park. 9. Te Mete Park playground. 10. Drake Street playground. 11. Te Kowhai Park playground. 12. Kinkade Park playground. 13. Gardenia Avenue playground. 14. Lawry Street playground. 15. William Franklyn playground. 16. Ferndale Park playground. 17. Waiwhakaiho Park playground.
Seven neighbourhood play spaces will be relocated and/or upgraded 1. Hurdon Street playground – relocate within the reserve to a section adjoining Cowling Road to provide better site surveillance and access. 2. Marfell Park playground – relocate to new Marfell Park entrance adjacent Marfell shops. 3. Bromley Street playground - relocate to a suitable nearby reserve that will provide more suitable ground conditions 4. Heta Road playground – relocate to the Branch Road reserve to provide large area for play space and access for families in newly developed area 5. Mangati playground – removed, awaiting relocation to Silvan Place reserve to provide better distribution of playground in Bell Block with consideration of new growth area. 6. Karamea Street playground – relocate to a suitable nearby reserve that will provide better surveillance and visibility. 7. Pennington Park playground and skate park – consider with the community and North Taranaki Sport and Recreation Inc relocation to Clifton Park where it becomes a community play space and is co-located with the proposed sports hub.
Two neighbourhood play spaces will be retired due to their proximity to another play space(s) and/or location no longer considered appropriate 1. Cook Street playground – retired following completion of new Marfell Park playground due to close proximity. 2. Clovelly Street playground – retired due to close proximity to Brooklands Zoo and Vogeltown Park playground and lack of road frontage and surveillance of site.
Two new neighbourhood play spaces will be built (subject to funding) 1. Fernbrook new residential area. 2. Area Q Bell Block future growth area.
Plan implementation and amendment Maintenance of play spaces is funded through operational budgets. Replacement of play spaces is funded from an annual renewal budget, with priority established based on condition assessments, as well as partnership opportunities. It is from this budget that this plan will be primarily implemented. New play space development or upgrades need to be considered as part of the Council’s Long-Term Plan process in terms of funding and timing. This play space framework will be reviewed at least every five years and may require amendment following development of Local Area Blueprints.
56 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy October 2015 57 58 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy October 2015 59 60 Open Space, Sport and Recreation Strategy October 2015 61
1 ITEM D
TRIAL OF FREE SATURDAY PARKING NOVEMBER 2015 TO MID- JANUARY 2016 PREPARED BY: Greg Stephens (Mayoral Adviser) TEAM: Policy Development APPROVED BY: Liam Hodgetts (Group Manager Strategy) WARD/COMMUNITY: City DATE: 16 October 2015 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 6646472
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is for a trial of free Saturday parking from November 2015 to mid-January 2016 and for officers to investigate and report back on longer-term options for parking in the CBD to be considered for the Annual Plan 2016/17.
MAYORAL RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION That having considered all matters raised in the report: a) Note that during the Long-Term Plan 2015/25 submission process, the Council received seven submissions (with petitions including support from 1,000 businesses/individuals) on providing 60 minutes of free parking in the New Plymouth Central Business District b) Note that the Mayor has requested a pre-Christmas trial for changes to the parking regulations in the CBD in order to determine whether parking charges are impacting on CBD retail activity c) Agree to a trial of free parking on Saturdays for both on- and off-street public parking starting on Saturday 7 November 2015 and ending on Saturday 16 January 2016 (inclusive), with the two hour time limit to remain for on-street parking on Devon Street (between Robe and Eliot Street) d) Note the estimated financial implications of the Saturday free parking trial is estimated to be between $51,000 and $116,000, including: a. $46,000 of lost revenue (based on the amount collected in the same period in 2014/15 on Saturdays) from paid parking, b. $5,000 to $20,000 in signage and reconfiguration, and c. $0 to $50,000 in lost enforcement revenue on Saturdays. e) Agree that the lost revenue and expenditure will be funded from the 2014/15 end of year operating surplus f) Instruct officers, following the trial, to: a. investigate the impact of the trial on retail spend, parking utilisation, revenue and public perception,
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 2 ITEM D
b. report to the Council on long-term options for the future of CBD parking charges to be considered for the Annual Plan 2016/17.
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is of some importance This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Undertake a trial of free Saturday parking
2. Undertake a trial of free, time restricted parking on one week day
Options 3. Undertake a trial of reduced parking charges off Devon Street
4. Undertake a trial of one hour free parking
5. Undertake a trial of free, time restricted parking Monday- Saturday
6. Do not undertake a trial
The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are CBD businesses, other retailers in the district, building owners, the New Affected persons Plymouth Business and Retail Association, the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce, shoppers, tourists and commuters, and the general public. Recommendation The Mayor recommends option 1 for addressing the matter. Long-Term Plan / No, as the trial is proposed to be funded for the 2014/15 general rate Annual Plan operating surplus. Implications This is consistent with the Blueprint key direction to “Champion a Significant thriving central city for all”. Some options are inconsistent with the Policy and Plan Parking Strategy 2013-2023.The funding is inconsistent with the Inconsistencies priorities of the Treasury Management Policy for surplus funds.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Mayor proposes that the Council agrees to trial free Saturday parking for the CBD in the pre-Christmas period. This trial will enable officers to assess the impact on retail spend, parking utilisation, revenue and public perception during peak demand. The Mayor proposes that this information be used as part of a wider review of parking in the CBD that officers will report back to Council for the Annual Plan 2016/17.
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BACKGROUND Proposed trial Retailers’ issue with paid parking in the CBD continues. Paid parking is perceived to be a barrier to retail and other activities in the CBD, particularly when compared to the Valley Mega Centre and other areas with free, or time restricted, parking. CBD retailers and property owners are concerned about the impact of this price differential on their businesses.
The current economic climate is difficult for retailers as a result of the dairy and oil and gas industries downturn. Consumer confidence has similarly fallen 9 per cent over the past year in Taranaki, while business confidence has fallen 27 per cent. The unemployment rate has risen 2.2 per cent in the past year to 7.5 per cent, while TradeMe job adverts have fallen 8 per cent in the past year.1
Retail spending, according to data from Venture Taranaki, in the New Plymouth Central area unit grew by 1 per cent in the first half of 2015 compared to the first half of 2014. However, this statistic is not an indication that the CBD is doing well for three reasons. Firstly, the figure is nominal – the Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 0.4 per cent from the June quarter 2014 to the June quarter 2015, indicating that the growth in spending in real terms was much lower (0.6 per cent). Secondly, this growth was significantly lower than the growth throughout the rest of New Plymouth City (which includes the Valley Mega Centre) which grew at 2.4 per cent in nominal terms – meaning the CBD’s share of overall retail spend fell. Thirdly, almost all of the spending growth in the CBD is in takeaways, bars/café/restaurants and food retailing rather than in apparel, homeware etc. – indicating that the retail mix is becoming less diversified within the CBD and this in turn may threaten its prosperity.
The Mayor has sought a ‘quick-win’ to help bolster the CBD against that challenge and has asked officers to prepare a report on options for a CBD parking trial through the pre- Christmas period.
A number of other local authorities have undertaken trials over recent years. Some of these and their impacts are summarised in Appendix 2.
Parking Strategy The Parking Strategy 2013-23 sets out actions for the Council’s regulation of parking, including the Council’s on- and off-street parking, as well as requirements in the District Plan relating to the private provision of parking. The Parking Strategy sets out a goal of ensuring a flexible parking approach that responds to user requirements. This included developing and implementing a policy to use price to optimise utilisation through having higher charges in higher utilised areas and vice versa. This has not yet been done as there needs to be several years of high-quality data from the sensor technology to properly assess such a policy.
1 ANZ Bank, ANZ Regional Trends Fifty-Fifty, August 2015, http://www.anz.co.nz/resources/d/5/d5b7dd17- a9d6-438e-bb92-b4586b256b16/ANZ-Regional-Trends-20150827.pdf
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Current parking regime The New Plymouth Central Business District is the only part of the district subject to paid on- street parking. Parking is charged at $2 per hour in most paid parking areas but $1 per hour is charged on Gill Street and Council-owned off-street car parks. Devon Street (between Robe and Eliot Streets) is subject to a two hour time restriction, but no other paid parking has a time restriction that applies. The outer CBD is subject to time restrictions and no charges. Appendix 1 shows each area. Parking is restricted and charged from either 8am or 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday. There is a special SuperGold Card holder concession to park for free until 11am.
Parking utilisation and satisfaction Overall, paid parks have a 66 per cent average occupancy rate.2 However, there are significant variations in day of week, time and location. Occupancy is higher on Devon Street (between Queen St and Gover St), Gill Street and Ariki Street, but significantly lower on the one-way system and side streets (see Appendix 1). Parking utilisation peaks Tuesday to Friday, and is lowest on Monday and Saturday. Similarly, parking utilisation is low after 3pm on all days of the week. This means there are particular areas and times where parking is highly utilised and other times and places where parking is underutilised and easily available.
The National Research Bureau Communitrak satisfaction survey 2015 listed the availability of car parking as the Council service with the lowest satisfaction level at 75 per cent satisfied. This is above the national average of 67 per cent satisfaction. Satisfaction has remained constant since 2009 (where it increased from around 60 per cent in 2008 and earlier).
Long-Term Plan submissions Seven submissions were received in favour of 60 minutes of free car parking during the Long-Term Plan 2015-25 submission process. This includes the New Plymouth Business and Retail Association (with 116 named CBD businesses supporting the application) and Ekdahl Property Management (with 900 names supporting the submission) who both requested 60 minutes of free parking in the CBD. Submitters commented on the issues facing the CBD and that free parking would be positive for the CBD. The Council noted the submissions and agreed that “no further consideration be given to this issue” of 60 minutes of free parking.
Trial length The trial needs to have sufficient length for the modification of behaviour and expectations by the public in order to produce valid information. A longer trial provides for a wider range of circumstances to measure over – such as variable weather patterns and public events. A shorter trial may not provide robust data to rely on for future decision-making. However, a longer trial increases the financial implications for the Council.
By covering the pre-Christmas period, the trial will occur during high demand and will enable maximum additional retail spend. It also provides an opportunity to highlight any issues that could occur by assessing the implications when the CBD is at high demand. Extending the trial through to mid-January is included because it would be impractical to make changes to end the trial during the Christmas/New Year period and also allows officers to assess the impact during the lowest utilisation period as well.
2 Occupancy is a measure of the proportion of the available parking spaces that are occupied at any one time.
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Communications Officers would work, if the trial is approved, with the Taranaki Chamber of Commerce and the New Plymouth Business and Retail Association so that CBD retailers utilise the trial to its fullest extent. While the Council will undertake limited promotion of the trial (such as on the Council’s Facebook page, website, radio adverts and in the 7 Days page in the North Taranaki Midweek), the Chamber of Commerce and the Business and Retail Association would encouraged to be more proactive. This could include organising longer opening hours on Saturday afternoons and promotional events and activities. It is also important that retailers request their staff to continue to park outside of the CBD rather than utilise the free parking initiative.
The Council needs to be mindful that whatever trial is undertaken now, the community may expect its continuance in the future. Careful messaging will need to occur to ensure that the community are aware that this is a trial, will be reversed at its conclusion and may not lead to future changes. A communications plan would be developed to manage expectations.
Financial implications Each option has financial implications. These are detailed in the options assessment and summarised in the table.
Option Estimated financial implications 1 Free Saturday parking $51,000 to $116,000 2 Free, time restricted parking Monday $72,000 to $103,000 on one week day Tuesday $80,000 to $134,000 Wednesday $81,000 to $131,000 Thursday $71,000 to $127,000 Friday $71,000 to $108,000 3 Reduced parking charges off Devon St $80,000 to $100,000 4 One hour free parking $355,000 to $435,000 5 Free, time restricted parking Monday-Saturday $450,000 to $530,000
As with any trial, the full financial implications are unknown and will only become clear afterwards – particularly as enforcement revenue is difficult to assess (particularly for options 4 and 5).
The lost revenue and expenditure will be funded from the end of year operating surplus from the 2014/15 financial year. This is inconsistent with the Treasury Management Policy which provides the priorities for the use of surplus funds are reducing PIF releases, repayment of debt, and reducing rates in a later year. The 2014/15 general rate operating surplus was $1.24 million due to strong vacancy management, reduced interest costs and reduced borrowing due to timing of capital expenditure. Any option requiring funding above $126,000 will impact on the proposed allocation of the general rate operating surplus. This affects options 4 and 5, as well as three sub-options of option 2 (Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday).
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Parking outcomes There are a fixed number of car parks within the CBD (at least in the short-term), while demand can vary significantly and can exceed short-term supply. Demand management tools can be used to limit demand to ensure that demand does not out-strip supply. The key demand management tools are payment and time restrictions (either separately or combined). Demand management options can be targeted or widely applied.
Parking can be measured by the following key outcomes: • Availability of car parks • Utilisation of car parks • Length of stay in car parks, and • Turnover of car parks. These outcomes are often mutually exclusive and designing a parking regime to promote each one may suit some types of shoppers and retailers over others. For instance, a high length of stay potentially allows more time for a person to shop, increases the utilisation of car parks, but reduces the turnover and availability of car parks making the situation harder for new people to come into the CBD to shop. Such a system would likely favour retailers (and their clients) that require being in the shop a long time or that often pick-up retail incidentally, but may disadvantage retailers (and their clients) who have a quick in-store turnover.
There is no parking regime that will suit the needs of every parker and every retailer. Parking regimes need to provide a balance between these different outcomes. They do so by using different combinations of demand management tools that reflect the supply and demand conditions in the locality.
LONG-TERM SOLUTION Having a trial will allow officers to assess the impact on retail spend, parking utilisation, revenue and public perception (e.g. call centre complaints and retailer feedback) to help inform any longer-term changes to CBD parking. If people are avoiding the CBD due to paid parking, as retailers suggest, then the trial will see an increase in parking utilisation and retail spend. However, if the cost of parking is not a significant determinate then demand will remain relatively constant. The trial will provide an insight into this and establish a stronger base for future decisions.
Different options enable different assessments of the implications, particularly on retail spend. Option 1 (the recommended option of free Saturday parking) or option 2 (free parking on another day of the week) best enables assessment of the impacts as it leaves the rest of the week as a ‘control’. The change in retail spend on Saturdays can be assessed against the increase in retail spend on other days of the week compared to the same degree of change that occurs on other days of the week. The other options do not enable such a comparison and the impact of parking changes versus other changes (e.g. economic) could not be as easily ascertained.
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The Mayor proposes that, after this trial, officers investigate and report back on longer-term options for parking in the CBD. This will need to be done in time for the Annual Plan 2016/17 process. Making substantial permanent changes to parking in the CBD as part of the Annual Plan 2016/17 will require community consultation. Changes to the Local Government Act 2002 made in 2014 allow local authorities to not consult with the community about the Annual Plan if the Annual Plan does not include significant or material differences from the Long-Term Plan for that financial year. Any changes to CBD parking would trigger this threshold. The consultation document only needs to explain the differences and their implications rather than being a full summary of the Annual Plan.
Any longer-term changes will likely have associated revenue implications that will need to be addressed. Nelson’s hour of free parking has resulted in a loss of $475,000 in revenue (exc. GST) that has been added to rates bills, with a proportion of the lost revenue added to a targeted rate to commercial properties in the CBD (as the main benefactors and to provide equity with businesses who have had to develop their own parking spaces). Any revenue or policy implications will be considered when officers report back.
Other initiatives Any long-term parking solution will also need to work with other changes to the CBD to have a long-lasting and positive impact. Paid CBD parking impacts shoppers and tourists, while retail activity in the CBD is also impacted by CBD workers and residents. The Council has several projects to improve the CBD, noting that parking is just one lever for increased CBD retail activity, including: • the Blueprint’s “a thriving Central City for all” key direction provides an opportunity for the District Plan to direct and better facilitate desired outcomes into the central city, • the Council has committed to investigating an appropriate strategic framework and investment plan for the CBD, and • the Council has committed to review CBD land holdings to identify opportunities for rationalisation and potential joint venture developments (this will include reviewing the Downtown Car Parking building and other off-street car parks).
These actions provide an opportunity for the Council to take an appropriate leadership role in enhancing the New Plymouth CBD moving forward.
Officers are developing a parking app for smartphones. The app will enable remote payment for parking spaces and alerts for when parking meters are about to expire. This will result in a better experience for paid parking. The app is scheduled to be released in late November or early December. The introduction of this app is not expected to impact trial because it introduces new payment options for when paid parking is occurring – it is of no benefit if there is no payment required (in particular, the app will not inform parkers when they have parked too long in a time restriction car park).
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SIGNIFICANCE AND ENGAGEMENT In accordance with the Council's Significance and Engagement Policy, this matter has been assessed as of some importance as the changes are temporary in nature as a trial.
It is not recommended that this matter be consulted on with the public before the trial period. However, any long-term changes will need to be consulted on as part of the Annual Plan 2016/17 process, particularly if there are revenue implications.
OPTIONS
Option 1 Undertake a trial of free Saturday parking
This option will see a trial of free Saturday parking in the CBD. Time restrictions will remain on Devon Street (between Robe and Eliot Streets). This trial can begin on 7 November.
Providing free parking on Saturday has advantages compared to other days of the week: • Saturday is a key shopping day for workers. It is therefore likely to have the most significant impact on retailers. It is also when other areas with free parking outside of the CBD are generally at their peak, so it provides a level-playing field (from the perspective of the shopper at least). • There are fewer commuters to the CBD on Saturday. This means parking spaces will not be taken up by workers forcing shoppers to the edges of the CBD. • Saturday is the lowest parking revenue day in the CBD. Removing charges on Saturdays provides an opportunity to test whether free parking has an impact on retail expenditure without significantly impacting on Council revenue. • Introducing free parking on Saturday means the entire weekend has free parking.
Providing free parking on Saturday may require retailers to alter their opening hours in order to utilise the trial.
Overall, officers expect that the trial could cost up between $51,000 and $116,000. This is made up of three components. • Officers estimate that the trial will reduce parking meter revenue by approximately $46,000. This is based on the revenue collected on Saturdays from paid parking during the same period 2014/15. • A further $50,000 was collected from enforcement on Saturdays during the same period in 2014/15. Total enforcement proceeds during the trial may not change significantly, depending on a range of factors. • There will also be costs, estimated at between $5,000 and $20,000, for signage and reconfiguring equipment for the trial. Officers anticipate that it will be at the lower end of this range, however this has significant contingency for unexpected reconfiguration costs.
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There is a risk that free parking will result in lower turnover and availability of car parks. This could make it more difficult for people to find car parks in the CBD and have an inverse impact on retail expenditure. However, the two hour time restriction will remain (and be enforced) on Devon Street between Robe and Eliot Streets to ensure turnover occurs.
This option is consistent with the Parking Strategy 2013-23’s performance based parking management approach (as Saturday has low utilisation).
Option 2 Undertake a trial of free, time restricted parking on one week day
This option will see a trial of free parking on one day during the working week. Time restrictions will remain on Devon Street (between Robe and Eliot Streets) and will be introduced elsewhere as P120 (although existing time restricted parks, such as P10 zones, will not be altered). The new time restrictions will only apply on the selected day. This trial can begin in the week of 9-13 November.
Providing free parking on a weekday would provide an opportunity to increase the utilisation of the CBD at a time when almost all shops are already open, therefore not requiring retailers to alter opening hours.
There is a risk that free parking will result in lower turnover and availability of car parks: • Commuters may use the free trial to park in the CBD rather than parking outside of the CBD reducing availability for shoppers, • The free trial may be used by businesses vehicles (such as for meetings) within the CBD increasing utilisation but reducing availability for shoppers.
This could make it more difficult for people to find car parks in the CBD and have an inverse impact on retail expenditure. However, time restrictions will be limit the effect of these adverse actions (particularly the former). Time restrictions will also increase the costs of the trial as new signs will need to be purchased, installed and then removed at the end of the trial.
The following table provides the estimated costs of trialling free parking on each day of the week. This is based on the revenue collected November 2014 to mid-January 2015.
Day Meter revenue (exc. Enforcement Estimated cost GST) revenue range (inc. $20,000 for signage and equipment costs) Monday $52,000 $28,000 $72,000 to $103,000 Tuesday $60,000 $54,000 $80,000 to $134,000 Wednesday $61,000 $50,000 $81,000 to $131,000 Thursday $51,000 $57,000 $71,000 to $127,000 Friday $51,000 $38,000 $71,000 to $108,000
Selecting Monday, Thursday or Friday could be considered consistent with the Parking Strategy 2013-23’s performance based parking management approach as they have low utilisation compared to Wednesday or Thursday, although not as low as Saturday.
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This option is not recommended as there are higher costs, compared to option 1 (free Saturday parking), and lower benefits (because of introducing time restrictions).
Option 3 Undertake a trial of reduced parking charges off Devon St
This option would see a reduction in parking charges to $1 per hour in all paid parking areas except Devon St between Queen St and Gover St. This responds to lower utilisation outside of this key strip (see Appendix 1). This option could begin 9 November.
This has the following advantages: • Reducing parking charges may see a higher utilisation while retaining payment. It is possible that revenue could increase as a result, although this would require significantly increased utilisation. • There may be a reduction in use of Devon St, increasing availability for those willing to pay a higher fee for more direct access.
There are disadvantages, notably: • There may be traffic flow implications as road configuration (e.g. traffic light phasing) will not be altered during the trial. • CBD retailers along Devon St may see reduced car park utilisation directly outside their businesses. • This option may be more difficult to communicate, or not perceived to provide as great a benefit, to shoppers.
This option is consistent with the Parking Strategy 2013-23’s performance based parking management approach (as off Devon St generally has lower demand).
There will be revenue implications for the Council as a result of a pre-Christmas trial, estimated at $65,000 (based on half of the total revenue collected in the areas in 2014/15). There will also be signage and technological changes, estimated at $5,000 to $20,000. The implications on enforcement revenue should not be significant and is estimated at $10,000. The total cost is estimated to be between $80,000 and $100,000.
This option is not recommended as there are lower benefits, compared to option 1 (free Saturday parking).
Option 4 Undertake a trial of one hour free parking
This option will see a trial of one hour free parking with current parking charges to apply after that one hour. The two hour time restriction on Devon St will remain. This option could begin 9 November.
This option was requested by a number of submitters during the Long-Term Plan submission process. The Council agreed that no further action be taken on the proposal.
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 11 ITEM D
One hour free parking would impact on turnover of car parking. In particularly, it is likely to incentivise parkers to stay for just under one hour. At present the median length of stay (that is, fifty per cent of people stay longer and fifty per cent of people stay for a shorter time) is 29 minutes and the mean length of stay is 38 minutes. These would likely increase to around an hour as both short-term parkers extend their stay and longer-term parkers reduce their stay to avoid making any payment whatsoever. There would, therefore, be a reduction in turnover and availability of car parks. It is unlikely that commuters would use car parks during the week as they would need to be moved hourly.
The estimated financial impacts are: • The revenue for November to mid-January in 2014/15 was $320,000 from parking meters (excluding GST). Approximately 70 per cent of parkers stay for less than one hour. Therefore officers estimate that revenue would decrease by 70 per cent which is $225,000. However, this does not take into account the possibility of behaviour changes. • It is likely that enforcement revenue would also fall significantly. $270,000 was collected from enforcement during November to mid-January 2014/15. Officers estimate that enforcement revenue will fall by at least 40 per cent (the proportion of tickets for failing to activate paid parking from the overall enforcement revenue) and potentially up to 70 per cent – or between $110,000 and $190,000. • Signage and reconfiguration is likely to around $20,000.
Officers estimate trialling one hour free parking could cost approximately $355,000 to $435,000. However, there is a high degree of uncertainty around this figure.
This option is not consistent with the Parking Strategy 2013-23’s performance based parking management approach.
This option is not recommended as there are significantly higher costs compared to option 1 (free Saturday parking).
Option 5 Undertake a trial of free, time restricted parking Monday-Saturday
This option will see a trial of free parking in the CBD, with all parks subject to time restrictions. All areas would be subject to a 120 minute time restriction except existing time restricted car parks would not change. This option could begin 9 November.
The revenue implications would be significant: • The revenue for November to mid-January in 2014/15 was $320,000 from paid parking (excluding GST and enforcement). This would be lost. • It is likely that enforcement revenue would also fall significantly. $270,000 was collected from enforcement during November to mid-January 2014/15. Officers estimate that enforcement revenue will fall by at least 40 per cent (the proportion of tickets for failing to activate paid parking from the overall enforcement revenue) and potentially up to 70 per cent – or between $110,000 and $190,000. • Signage and reconfiguration is likely to around $20,000.
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 12 ITEM D
Officers estimate trialling free, time restricted parking will cost between $450,000 and $530,000, although there is a high degree of uncertainty around the enforcement revenue.
This option is not consistent with the Parking Strategy 2013-23’s performance based parking management approach.
This option is not recommended as there are significantly higher costs compared to option 1 (free Saturday parking).
Option 6 Do not undertake a trial
The Council does not have to undertake a trial. This would mean there is no loss to revenue from parking. The Council could still resolve to consider longer-term changes as part of the Annual Plan 2016/17 and by implementation actions in the Parking Strategy 2013-23, although would not have an evidential basis for considering the implications.
Recommended Option The Mayor recommends option 1 (Undertake a trial of free Saturday parking) for addressing the matter.
APPENDIX Appendix 1: Parking charging zones in the New Plymouth CBD with utilisation statistics Appendix 2: Parking trials elsewhere in New Zealand
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 13 ITEM D
APPENDIX 1: PARKING CHARGING ZONES IN THE NEW PLYMOUTH CBD WITH UTILISATION STATISTICS
$2 per hour
$1 per hour
Time restricted only
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 14 ITEM D
APPENDIX 2: PARKING TRIALS ELSEWHERE IN NEW ZEALAND
This appendix summarises significant trials undertaken by other local authorities in New Zealand where the impacts have been assessed by the local authority and are publicly available. Local authorities have publicly released different information about the impact of the trial – therefore this information is not consistent across authorities.
It is important to note that these trials are in the context of the local business and retail environment. It cannot be assumed that similar impacts would be felt in New Plymouth from a similar trial.
City Trial details Impacts Nelson Free, time Retail spend declined in CBD during the trial compared to the restricted parking previous year, while it increased elsewhere in the city. (from paid, time However, the majority of retailers perceived an increase in restricted both number of people visiting their business and their parking) turnover. Pedestrian count increased. Overall parking tickets increased, with a large increase in tickets for breaching time limits. Occupancy of car parks increased, particularly short term stays. Rotorua Free, time Reduced demand for short-term (less than 30 minutes) restricted parking parking, but no increase in demand for longer stay parking. (from paid, time Overall occupancy rates did not change, but there decreased restricted occupancy in short term stay areas. The average length of stay parking) increased. Pedestrian counts continued its downward trend, although at a decreased rate. Bus patronage feel. While the number of parking complaints did not fall, the NRB survey results showed a 15 per cent increase in satisfaction. Revenue declined, including a significant decline in enforcement revenue. Hastings Free, time Trial begins November 2015. restricted parking (from paid parking) Gisborne Free parking Two-thirds of retailers did not report increased sales, 59 per before 10:30am cent of retailers reported no positive impacts from the trial (54 (from paid per cent reported no negative impacts as well). There was a parking) minimal change in the number of cars in the CBD each day (although this was a result of retailers and staff parking in front of stores) and there was no perceived increase in foot traffic.
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 1 ITEM E
APPLICATION OF THE OPERATING SURPLUS FROM THE 2015/16 FINANCIAL YEAR PREPARED BY: Philip Armstrong (Manager Business Services) TEAM: Business Services APPROVED BY: Alan Bird (Chief Financial Officer) WARD/COMMUNITY: District Wide DATE: 13 October 2015 FILE REFERENCE: ECM 6750572
MATTER The matter for consideration by the Council is to consider how the general rate operating surplus form the 2014/15 financial year of $1.24 million should be allocated.
RECOMMENDATION FOR CONSIDERATION
That having considered all matters raised in the report the Council approve the allocation of the general rate operating cash surplus of $1.24 million as follows:
a) $377k unfunded storm damage b) $450k disaster recovery fund c) $200k roading preventative maintenance d) $87k VTT review, previously approved e) $126k for the CBD parking trial (if approved) or the repayment of debt
COMPLIANCE Significance This matter is of some importance.
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 2 ITEM E
COMPLIANCE This report identifies and assesses the following reasonably practicable options for addressing the matter:
1. Apply the general rate operating surplus of $1.24 million as follows: a) $377k unfunded storm damage b) $450k disaster recovery fund Options c) $200k roading preventative maintenance d) $87k VTT review, previously approved e) $126k for the CBD parking trial (if approved) or the repayment of debt 2. Apply the general rate operating surplus to the repayment of debt.
The persons who are affected by or interested in this matter are, the Affected persons general public Recommendation This report recommends option 1 Long-Term Plan / How the Council chooses to apply the surplus will potentially have Annual Plan some impact on future plans. Implications Significant Policy and Plan There are no inconsistencies with current policies and plans Inconsistencies
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Council is a significant organisation with operating expenditure of approximately $130 million. There are many business units that make up the Council operation and there is a large degree of complexity within the Council. Due to this size and complexity actual financial results will always vary to some degree from original budgets.
Due to a variety of factors explained within the report the Council has made a general rate operating surplus of $1.24 million, less than 1% of expenditure. As per the Treasury Management policy the Council has the option to use the surplus to further decrease the PIF release, repay debt or apply against rates over the next three years.
This report recommends applying the surplus to a number of initiatives which will help reduce rates over the next year with the balance to be applied to the repayment of debt.
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 3 ITEM E
BACKGROUND The Council is a significant organisation with operating expenditure of approximately $130 million. There are many business units that make up the Council operation and there is a large degree of complexity within the Council. Due to this size and complexity actual financial results will always vary to some degree from original budgets.
Operationally the Council also performed well with a strong focus on cost control throughout the year especially with regard to personnel costs where rigorous management of vacant positions resulted in savings of approximately $600k. There was also considerable savings in interest costs due to lower than budgeted interest rates and lower borrowing due to the timing of capital expenditure.
The accounts prepared for the annual report are prepared using generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and include a number of valuations relating to investments, assets, interest rate swaps etc which impact our accounting result. After adjusting for these non cash items and isolating the targeted rate performance and accounting for carry forward budgets the Council had a net general rate operating surplus over budget of $1.24 million.
As per the Treasury Management policy the Council has the option to use the surplus to further decrease the PIF release, repay debt or apply against rates over the next three years.
Due to the work done for the preparation and completion of the 2015/25 LTP the PIF release is now at a sustainable level of 3.3% of the fund, so it is the officers recommendation to apply the surplus against debt or used to help reduce the impact of rates.
In regards to assisting the impact on rates there are a number of areas for consideration by the Council including the following: a) As previously reported the June 2015 storm damage had a substantial financial impact and as reported $377k was not funded and is likely to impact 2016/17 rates, if it can’t be funded this year. b) Funding for the storm damage of $750k was also taken from the disaster recovery fund reducing the fund to $550k; consideration could be given to helping restore the fund back above $1.0million which would help to provide resilience for future unforeseen events. An allocation of $450k would achieve this. c) $200k additional roading maintenance expenditure. There are numerous sites with minor storm damage that, due to them not posing an immediate risk to the roading network, do not qualify for financial assistance from the NZTA. Repairing these areas now will improve the resilience of the roading network. If left to deteriorate to the point that they will attract NZTA financial assistance it is likely that the cost to NPDC will be significantly more despite the financial assistance. These items were not included in the original estimate of cost of repairs from the storm damage of $4.6m
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015 4 ITEM E
$87k has previously been committed to funding the VTT review. The Council resolution included the following: “Agrees that funding for the review will be provided for from the expected end of year operating surplus.”
The balance of $126k could be applied to the CBD parking trial or the repayment of debt.
SIGNIFICANCE The Annual Report is an audited record of the Council’s performance over the previous year and is therefore a historical document, and has been assessed as having low significance in terms of the Council’s Significance Policy.
OPTIONS
Option 1 Apply the general rate operating surplus of $1.24 million as follows:
a) $377k unfunded storm damage b) $450k disaster recovery fund c) $200k roading preventative maintenance d) $80k VTT review, previously approved e) $126k for the CBD parking trial (if approved) or the repayment of debt Option 2 Apply the general rate operating surplus to the repayment of debt.
OPTIONS ASSESMENT Risk analysis
There are no significant risks with either option. Potentially option 1 keeps rates lower in the short term.
Community Views
There is likely to be community support for either option, although the majority of rate payers are likely to favour immediate impact with lower rates.
Recommended Option This report recommends option 1
Council Wednesday 28 October 2015