Middle Renwick Road
Information Package Assets & Services Department 26 November 2013
Contents
Pages
Marlborough Roads ...... 1 Local Road Asset Management Report – August, September and October 2013 ...... 1 Dashwood Overbridge ...... 4
Rivers and Drainage Section ...... 7 River Works Activity Report ...... 11
Planning and Development Section ...... 17 Picton Water – Short Term Water Restrictions ...... 17 Blenheim Sewage Pump Stations ...... 17
Services & Operations ...... 18 Education Report Term 3, 2013 ...... 18 Awatere Water Supply (Birch Stream) – Earthquake Repairs Update ...... 23
Emergency Management Activity Report ...... 24 Rural Fire ...... 24 Emergency Management ...... 25
Reserves and Amenities Section Activity Report ...... 27 Blenheim Parks and Reserves ...... 27 Public Conveniences ...... 32 Cemeteries ...... 33 Swimming Pools ...... 33 General ...... 33 Rangers’ Report ...... 34 Road Safety Coordinator Update ...... 36 BikeWalk Marlborough...... 38
Marlborough Roads
(Information prepared by F Porter) R825-01
Local Road Asset Management Report – August, September and October 2013
General Because of Council meeting cycles, the individual monthly reports have been combined for presentation to the Assets and Services Committee.
In the interim, regular monthly reports required to be prepared by the Network Outcomes Contract Joint Venture (JV) have been presented to Marlborough Roads and forwarded for information to the Assets and Services Manager.
The Network Outcomes Contract has been operating since 1 July and is now in its fifth month. The contract is successfully delivering the required outcomes. As in any new contract there have been some “teething” issues as new respective roles are defined.
The 16 August Earthquake required an immediate response from the JV and successfully saw the road network safely open by midday the day following. Ongoing road movement has occurred on SH 1 between Seddon and Ward requiring a 50 km/h speed limit to be put in place over a 1 km length.
Permanent earthquake repairs will not be put in place until ground movements have ceased.
As part of the Transport Agency’s Maintenance and Operations Review, the new staff structure at the Marlborough Roads office has landed well. The structure is focused on journeys, network operations and contract management. Whilst these are specific work streams, the respective managers are working in a collaborative environment.
Financial Commentary Expenditure after the first four months of the financial year is tracking below budget for both maintenance and renewals. The maintenance expenditure is expected to remain within budget. Renewals are expected to be fully expensed at the end of the coming construction season.
The attached chart indicates maintenance and renewals expenditure.
Monthly Activities Network Outcomes Contract The new Network Outcomes Contract is achieving expected results. There have nevertheless been some “teething” issues which individually would not ordinarily cause any problems but collectively have generated some “stress” within the HEB/Opus Joint Venture. These issues have included an internal HEB staff reorganisation, accommodation constraints, reacting to storm events, ongoing earthquake issues and the complexities of new contract system requirements. Despite these issues, there are clear signals that the contract is developing with no major issues to resolve.
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Pre-reseal pavement repairs have been undertaken in preparation for the resealing over summer. Substantial maintenance work has occurred on the Awatere Valley Road including some minor safety improvements. These works will leave this road in good condition leading into summer.
Marlborough Roads activities An effective response was provided following the September earthquake. Marlborough Roads staff operated alongside JV management staff at the JV base in Riverlands and the Journey Manager was based alongside other staff at the Emergency Management Centre. Good communications were maintained with MDC during the event aftermath.
Storm damage reinstatement expenditure is now $765,000 and is ahead of the amount requested ($600,000) from the Programme and Investment Group within the NZ Transport Agency. Marlborough Roads will lodge a new claim and also a new and separate claim for the Northbank Road damage (estimated in the $150-200,000 range) above Top Valley. The river has attacked the road edge. Competitive prices are currently being sought for the reinstatement work.
Project Status State Highways Construction of the SH 1/Alabama Intersection (Butter Factory Corner) Safety Improvements is all but complete at the end of October.
Safety Improvements works are proceeding well on SH 1 between Picton and Blenheim. This work mainly involves installation of barrier rails. These rails will reduce the severity of any run-off-road crashes.
SH 6/62 Intersection Improvement works are complete following some post-construction modifications. Marlborough Roads expects these works will enhance safety at the intersection.
Opus International Consultants have completed draft design drawings for the SH 6 Springlands Intersections and propose to conduct further community consultation with adjacent residents in November. The design has been widely circulated and has received good media coverage.
Consultants GHD Ltd is preparing final construction documentation for safety improvements at the SH 6/Bells/St Leonards intersection. Marlborough Roads expects to advertise this work in November 2013 with work expected to get underway in February 2014.
Asphalting work on SH 6, Nelson Street and High Street Renwick is complete.
Local roads Construction of the replacement Pine Valley No. 2 Bridge got underway in September 2013.
The Torea Jetty replacement is substantially complete.
Kerb and channel works are underway Kirk Street, Renwick and New Renwick Road, Burleigh.
Communications Marlborough Roads continues to consult with many sectors of the community. The following table identifies some of those contacts during the month.
d’Urville Island Residents Road issues Elie Bay Residents Road Condition and Logging French Pass/ Cissy Bay Residents Road issues and consultation Ngakuta Bay Residents Next Stage of Footpath Awatere Valley Residents Road maintenance Utilities Liaison meeting Utility coordination (Act Requirement)
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August 2013 Compliment 1 (1%) Complaint 3 (3%) General Communication 0 (0%) Incident Response 30 (33%) Planning 0 (0%) Physical Works Request 0 (0%) Request for Service 58 (63%) Query 0 (0%) Services Application 0 (0%) September 2013 Compliment 0 (0%) Complaint 1 (1%) General Communication 0 (0%) Incident Response 21 (26%) Planning 0 (0%) Physical Works Request 0 (0%) Request for Service 60 (73%) Query 0 (0%) Services Application 0 (0%) October 2013 Compliment 0 (0%) Complaint 1 (1%) General Communication 0 (0%) Incident Response 45 (46%) Planning 0 (0%) Physical Works Request 0 (0%) Request for Service 52 (53%) Query 0 (0%) Services Application 0 (0%) Road Safety Crash statistics The MVA reported incidents in August are as summarised below:
[The reporting system from Police has changed and information is not available].
The MVA reported incidents in September are as summarised below:
State Highway Local Road Fatal 0 0 Serious 0 0 Minor 1 0 Non-Injury 2 5 Rural 1 1 Urban 2 4 Total 3 5
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The MVA reported incidents in October are as summarised below:
State Highway Local Road Fatal 0 0 Serious 1 0 Minor 3 0 Non-Injury 5 1 Rural 7 0 Urban 2 1 Total 9 1
The crash numbers reported in the last three months seem to be less reliable than in previous months. Data is also available on the Transport Agency website but is generally not complete (especially for minor crashes) for three months after each crash.
Despite some lack of information, the number of crashes is seem to be at a lower than lower normal level.
Health and safety No significant health and safety issues have arisen over the three month period.
Dashwood Overbridge (Information prepared by F Porter) R945-01
Attached is information relating to the proposed new Dashwood overbridge. The construction contract has been awarded to Higgins Contractors, Nelson. Work is due to begin this month and should be complete by winter 2015.
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Rivers and Drainage Section
River Works Activity Report (Information prepared by G Dick, B Williman, R Fitzgerald, S Bezar, K McFall, L Kuta, D Aires) R540-03
Wairau River
General maintenance Annual stopbank and targeted berm mowing has been completed. Metalling and grading of the stopbank carriageway has been completed between Jeffries and Giffords Roads.
Annual willow and polar river protection planting (2,445 poles) has been completed over eight main locations between Waihopai confluence and SH 1.
We are currently waiting on river levels to drop to summer low flows so that repair of some eroding rock lines/training groynes work can get underway. The highest priority is repair of most upstream of the Condors Bend bank alignment groynes.
Lower Wairau stopbank/floodway upgrades Tender documents have been delivered to the selected contractors for the upcoming Jones Road stopbank upgrade project. Six prequalified contractors were selected due to the roading work involved in this project. A lowest price conforming evaluation will be used to award the contract. Closing date for the tender is November 12 with expectation of breaking ground prior to the holidays.
Approximately 1.5 ha of tree removal has been carried out to assist with floodway capacity and to coincide with upcoming stop bank upgrade works.
Bothams Bend rock work Design of the new section of rock lining to maintain the bank edge at the flow split area is essentially complete. The rock is also available at the Pukaka Quarry. However the surrounding gravel beaches are a favourite bird nesting area and this will be checked in conjunction with a DOC expert to see if construction can get underway this month.
Wairau Floodplain and Tributaries
Gibsons Creek SVIS (Wairau River) reinstated 17/9/2013. Routine inspections post flood/storm events to ensure a clear waterway. Berm mowing completed.
Marlborough Lines have agreed to grant Council an easement to protect the section of Waihopai intake infrastructure in the block of surplus land they are subdividing off and disposing.
Omaka River Fairway clearing works completed after the early spring storm event from above Tyntesfield Road Bridge downstream to Opawa confluence. Along the way assistance was given to landowners carrying out own protection plantings. Stopbank mowing completed.
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Upper Opawa - behind Lansdowne Park to Waipuna Street Minor works tidying up after flood event. Stopbank mowing completed.
School Creek, Renwick Assistance was given to Renwick School to help kick-off their Creek to Community project. The removal of vegetation including two large poplar trees was carried out in the school holidays. The first tazz – run (weed eating) has also been completed.
Taylor River: town area Rock protection and berm shaping works have been undertaken just above the Henry Street footbridge.
An effort has been made to provide for improved drainage of the low areas of pathways with chronic drainage problems but with earthworks costs of the order of $3,000 to provide drainage to 75 m of path it appears that raising strategic lengths of pathways with new concrete surfacing may be more cost effective. Silt deposits during flood events gradually raise berm levels adjacent to the concrete walkway leading to the poor drainage during wet weather.
Lower Opawa River – Park Terrace area Engineering and survey plans for acquisition of remaining floodway land are well advanced, and stopbank and retaining structure/security fencing design is underway.
Lower Opawa River stopbank improvements - Hardings Road Extension of a gravity culvert and site grass defoliation has been completed to enable stopbank widening and improvements. Wet weather and high water levels have delayed further earthworks operations.
Wither Hills The annual nassella tussock control programme has been completed (just under 13,000 plants grubbed) and all blocks passed their audits. General noxious plant control work (ground-based) is on-going and an aerial spraying of unwanted woody vegetation is scheduled for mid-November.
This years’ planting programme has also largely been completed seeing a range of both exotics and natives established (over 2000 plants).
Variable weather conditions of late have prevented further work on the remaining (May 2013) storm damage repair works.
Minor alterations to fencing and gate layouts have been carried out adjacent to the Taylor Pass subdivision in order to allow for stock movements away from the back of residential properties. The larger stepping stones placed over the three fords up Quail stream have had plenty of positive feedback from the public.
A meeting was held by the MKRFA, which included staff from Rivers, Reserves and DOC, PALMS and the farm lessee, on 19 September 2013 to discuss the upcoming fire season in relation to the Wither Hills Farm Park. Management options discussed included fuel reduction (woody weed control, grazing), establishing green belts around residential development, water supply, signage and notifications regarding times of entry during high fire risk periods.
15 Valley Stream Gabion stopbanks are being constructed adjacent to the culvert inlet under Cloudy Bay Drive to fix a low point in the stopbank system. An effort is being made to provide a “green” gabion structure using bio- degradable linings and an earth- rock mix with seed to fill the gabions.
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Drainage Drain inspections completed and works schedule prepared. The spring spray programme is now underway including bulk purchase of the agrichemicals with a good price saving. Other maintenance works include;
• Drain I excavated 468 metres, Drain Z excavated 266 metres.
• The Spring Creek staff gauges show very high water levels in the lower reaches. A weed control programme will start earlier this year than previous.
• Large willow tree pruned at Spring Creek Motor Camp which was affecting the adjacent hydro recorder and records.
• Some strategic drain batters have been mown adjacent to pump stations to create smooth water flows to the pumps.
Pumping Stations Rural pumps have required regular site visits due to the wet weather and long hours of operation. Automatic resets have not reduced the requirement for physical inspections and resetting due to the demanding operating environment.
Mechanical weedcutter: River Queen MSA 122246 The programmed weed cut for September was not undertaken due to a succession of minor river freshes and high winds. However a weed cut is now underway
Excessive aquatic weed growth is now apparent and aquatic herbicide injections may be required within urban Blenheim to ensure we stay on top of the weed growth.
Caseys Creek Civil design for one of the private crossings due for upgrade has been provided by Davidsons Group. The design includes the required box culvert size that will be required as development progresses as well as headwalls that will marry into future retaining structures on the northern side of the creek, which are currently in concept phase. This crossing will serve as a template for the remaining 14 crossings due to be upgraded.
Taylor Flood Detention Dam - Safety Assurance Program Tonkin & Taylor consulting engineers have been engaged to undertake a comprehensive safety review of the Taylor Dam. The safety review includes a thorough inspection of the dam structure including the outlet control culvert. New regulations coming into force in June next year require these reviews on a minimum of a five yearly basis.
Preparatory work to provide safe access to the control culvert is well underway. The inspection is planned for 20 November with the 21 November as a reserve day if required. Inspection of the control culvert requires a partial dewatering of the dam pond and opening of the control gates at the outlet. The opportunity will be taken to check and undertake any routine maintenance to the gates as required.
A full site specific safety plan is being worked through and a confined space entry permit is also required. Public access to the dam recreation area is proposed to be closed while the dewatering and inspection works are underway.
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Floodway Reserves • Lease let for Reserve 127 Upper Opawa
• Clean up required following the recent wind storm with a large number of large trees blown over.
• We are getting continuing vehicle damage to gates in the Spring Creek area, so concrete blocks are being strategically placed to stop vehicle access to certain areas.
• The Salvation Army site at the Taylor River has been cleared enabling greater use of the site and the installation of raised gardens as part of their development plans.
• The launching ramp at the Blenheim Rowing club has been cleared and a mound constructed to prevent early river flood flows onto Jones Road.
• All reserve areas have been mown but some high use/popular areas will be done again before Christmas.
• Small willows/regrowth has been cleared in the Upper Opawa behind Lansdowne Park to improve floodway performance of this reach and minimise degree of future removal works.
Picton, Sounds and Awatere
Waikawa and Waitohi Rivers Floodway tree removal has been carried out after strong winds blew several large trees over in the Waitohi River above the railway line. Kent Street drain gravel trap has been cleaned out twice this winter already. Routine inspections and clearing of culverts/grilles post heavy rainfall events carried out.
Rai River and tributaries Over 325 poles for river protection planting was afforded landowners upon request to assist in bank stabilisation.
Tirimoana Stream Flood damage has been inspected and minor works will be undertaken when machinery is in the area.
Okiwi Bay Residents’ Association Concern has been expressed regarding recent flooding of the trailer park and of the possible impact of recent subdivision development. Staff have spent some time assessing proposed works options and improvements. Minor drain clearance will be undertaken within the park when machinery is in the area.
Investigation and Miscellaneous
Fairhall/Yelverton streams The initial hydrologic/hydraulic look at Area 6 and the Old Fairhall System is underway. This study will provide some insight into current stormwater problem areas, the amount of water currently being handled by the system, as well as forecasted flows and the required infrastructure to accommodate future development in this area.
LiDAR topographical data has been acquired for Area 6 as well as the entire western side of Blenheim, which is already proving its value with utility in a number of consulting projects as well as in-house investigations by the Rivers Department and Operations.
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Brookby Road A detailed hydrologic/hydraulic investigation and mitigation design has been completed to sort the flooding and scouring currently occurring along Brookby Road. Discussions between landowner and Council are continuing as the original waterway diversion was non-consented. Redwood Street stormwater A large amount of work is being undertaken to investigate and analyse the Redwood Street stormwater catchment. This stormwater catchment is complex as part outfalls directly into the lower Opawa via the large stormwater main down Redwood Street and part by discharge into the Town Branch rural drain system and then into the lower Opawa River via the Abattoir pump station/gravity outfall.
The initial analysis shows that the Redwood Street pipe is significantly under capacity and camera footage confirms several sections are old and in poor condition. Hydraulic analysis also indicates there is a limit to how much additional water can be diverted into the Town Branch system without both channel and outfall upgrades.
A number of upgrade options are being looked but more detailed pipe network modelling will likely be required to refine upgrade options.
Gravel Extraction . The annual gravel allocation year commences on 1 March each year.
. Gravel extraction figures for the 7 month period up to 30 September 2013 is as follows:
Wairau River 3 57,743 m Reach (Waihopai River confluence to the Ferry Road
Bridge), where annual allocation has been reduced to 3 (43% of annual allocation) 135,000 m for 2013/14. Other rivers within in the district (incl. Sounds, Upper 3 34,223 m . Wairau & Awatere) Total to date for the Marlborough District 3 91,966 m . (March to June 2013)
. In the same period there was 1,619 m3 of gravel sold from gravel stockpiles.
. Below is a plot of gravel extraction in the Wairau River for the ‘Waihopai confluence to the Ferry Bridge’ reach. The allocation for 2013/14 has been reduced from 245,000 m3/yr to 135,000 m3/yr.
. As at 30 September the gravel extraction rate is at its lowest for the past six years.
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Quarries
Pukaka The quarry is being shot again in preparation for several large Wairau River jobs. The shots are also keeping our contractor with a good supply of rubble for processing.
No progress has been made with the key adjacent land owner about extending the quarry. Decisions will need to be made soon as current rock reserves are being rapidly depleted. Hillersden A request for information for the lease of this quarry in the upper Wairau Valley has been advertised. There has been good initial interest and a site visit with contractors is planned.
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Planning and Development Section
Picton Water – Short Term Water Restrictions (Information prepared by S Donaldson W460-001-021
The Speeds Road water treatment and pump station site is to be upgraded to meet Priority One requirements of the Drinking Water Standards for New Zealand (DWSNZ) over autumn and winter 2015.
Design is programmed to begin early March 2014 to meet the proposed completion date. There are three wells at Speeds Road, two of which have been re-drilled to allow the submersible pumps to be installed deeper, making them more reliable in drought conditions. It is proposed to re-drill the third well. The drilling needs to be completed and the well test pumped prior to design commencing.
During drilling and development, the wells supplying Picton with water have to be shut down to avoid pumping water of reduced quality. The duration of shutdowns will be limited to the shortest practicable periods; however it is still likely that restrictions on water use will be required. The restrictions would consist of a sprinkler and hosing ban during the day on week days. Drilling would not take place on the weekend.
The restrictions would likely be in place for about two weeks in total. There could be a need for restrictions during drilling and then a period of no restrictions while parts for the new well are procured, followed by a few more days of restrictions during completion and testing.
Every effort will be made to minimise the restrictions if they are needed at all.
It is also likely that restrictions will be needed at times during construction of the upgrade to treatment and pumping in 2015. The aquifer is particularly shallow and pile driving and foundation excavations could affect water quality.
Blenheim Sewage Pump Stations (Information prepared by S Donaldson W430-001-007
Ten Blenheim sewage pump stations built in the 1930’s and 1960’s are being assessed for structural condition and seismic performance. Two of the stations have been found to be at risk of damage during an earthquake that would likely lead to them being out of service for an extended period.
In terms of structural condition, all 10 were found to have residual lives of 25 years or more subject to maintenance and some repair work.
A report will be prepared for the Committee in the New Year when all the information is to hand.
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Services & Operations
Education Report Term 3, 2013 (Information prepared by A McDonald, Education Officer) E340-001-001
Enviroschools Aims: To successfully manage and facilitate all Enviroschools in the programme. This includes comprehensive staff training for new schools; support and professional development for schools taking on theme areas of the Enviroschools programme, assistance with schools who are taking on action projects and reflection on the programme including facilitation of Enviroschools reflections.
There are 25 Enviroschools in Marlborough in the Enviroschools programme and the Marlborough Kindergarten Association. This equates to 80% of our schools.
Outcomes: • The Enviroschools Early Years programme is progressing well with Witherlea, Springlands, Picton and Renwick joining the Enviroschools programme along with Seymour and Mayfield Kindergartens. The new kindergartens are looking at how to integrate the Enviroschools programme into their programmes and will be planning to look at ways to deliver the Me in My Environment theme learning about our connection with the environment and the ways we impact it.
• Renwick School achieved the silver level of Enviroschools and Mayfield achieved the bronze level.
• A number of schools are working to complete their reflections next term for Enviroschools working towards a bronze or silver level.
• Seddon School and Whitney Street School completed the Zero Waste theme with all classes being given a tour of the recycling centre and senior classes visiting the landfill.
Mayfield lead teacher Sam Sutherland and the team
• A successful bus trip was organized for Nelson and Tasman Enviroschools teachers and managers to visit three of our Enviroschools. Renwick, a silver Enviroschool and Fairhall and Springlands, Green Gold Enviroschools hosted the schools and shared their programmes, action projects and future plans with the 40 visiting participants.
• Planning has been completed for the third annual student leadership and learning day in partnership with the Department of Conservation’s community relationships team. Invitations have been sent out to Enviroschools with up to sixty places available for students and 15 places for teachers for a day of learning and action at Grovetown School and Grovetown Lagoon in November.
• Planning meetings have been held with two schools on opportunities to join the Enviroschools programme in 2014.
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Kids’ Edible Gardens Aims: To successfully manage and facilitate the Kids’ Edible Garden programme. This includes developing resources to support the programme, training and professional development for teachers and facilitators.
There are currently 20 Kids’ Edible Garden schools in Marlborough.
.Outcomes: • All schools in the KEG programme were visited to check on the programme during the second half of term three.
• It was exciting to see the way that schools have integrated the edible garden programme into their class programme Attached is the summary of the programmes we saw being delivered.
• Feedback has been provided by schools and the facilitator funding model for 2014 will be confirmed in term 4. This will be based on a flat base fee of $1000 per school plus a percentage of the schools roll. This was seen as the most equitable way to fund all schools in the programme within the current budget.
• New resources are being trialled by teachers to assist with programme planning.
• Professional development opportunities have been planned for facilitators for term 4.
General Schools programmes Aims. To encourage schools to reduce waste and conserve water use and provide opportunities for learning.
• Three classes from Richmond View School were given a guided tour of the Recycling Centre and Transfer Station.
• Two classes were given a talk on Marlborough’s water.
Sustainable Living Aims: To link the Sustainable Living single topics to the Enviroschools theme areas. This allows for schools to offer single topic seminars to their school community on topics that students are studying from the Enviroschools theme areas which include waste, water, living landscapes, ecological buildings and energy.
Outcomes: • Two talks were given on waste and organic gardening to community groups.
For more information on our education programmes check out the web link. http://www.marlborough.govt.nz/Environment/Environmental-Education/School-Education- Programmes.aspx
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Kids’ Edible Gardens programme Garden and class visits term 3, 2013 The purpose of the school visits was to monitor the Kids’ Edible Garden programme watching both the garden and class lessons.
It was exciting to see many schools have linked the garden and class programmes so students are able to build on knowledge and skills in both lessons.
It was also exciting to see some innovative programmes where schools have used the garden programme to drive their curriculum and inquiry programmes.
A summary of the garden and class programmes has been compiled.
Witherlea Students were learning about the parts of the plant in the garden and the lifecycle of plants. Students planted out small plants they had grown from seeds.
The teacher read a story about the giant turnip and students talked about what type of plant a turnip was and which part we eat. They then did an activity to identify the different parts of a plant and its lifecycle.
Redwoodtown Students were planting potatoes into the garden they had been growing indoors. They were learning about how to plant a potato and how to mound them as they grew larger.
The teacher and teacher aide discussed potatoes and what type of vegetable they were. The teacher aide was working with groups to make potato wedges from leftover potatoes. The remaining students were making craft potato people from other fruits and vegetables.
Grovetown Students were studying the different types of vegetables identifying and drawing what parts we eat as well as looking at the effect that bugs and insects had on them.
The class lesson was based on an inquiry unit students were doing on mini beasts. Each student had chosen a mini beast to study and as well as talking about their mini beast, they linked this back to if they had seen the bugs in the garden and were planning a bug hunt in the garden for the next lesson.
Fairhall Students were learning about composting and feeding the soil in the garden, checking on the progress of different types of compost they had made and using the compost to feed the soil ready for new planting.
The class lesson was focussed on crop rotation and the reason that we move plants around in the garden so they can get the best nutrients. Students from the senior school then came and took a lesson on two games they had prepared around the nutrient cycle. This was very successful and the younger students really enjoyed learning from the older ones in fund activities.
Canvastown The garden programme was focused on seed growing and seed transplanting.
The junior class shared their learning about seed-raising and had a number of seed-raising systems in place including three different types of sprouts. They had done measurements on seeds to see which condition they liked the best as part of their science experiments and much of their reading programme was around seeds.
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Wairau Valley The garden programme looked at different types of compost and how they affected the soil. The students had turned one of the gardens into a grid and had put in different types of compost to see how they would affect the soil quality.
The junior class had done a technology project designing and evaluating models to protect the garden from predators and were in the process of choosing the best ones to then plan and construct.
Spring Creek Students were preparing the garden for planting and researching and deciding what could be planted for spring.
Junior students were working on an inquiry topic on spring looking at how the seasons change and the effects in the environment. The senior school has linked their edible garden programme to the school science fair.
Linkwater Linkwater has been trialling a new programme where the teacher and facilitator work together to deliver both the class and garden programme. Senior students had been preparing the recent addition of a tunnel house ready to plant vegetables they want to grow for recipes they have designed and created for the end of the year. As well as researching recipes and plants, students were learning how to take care of them so they can have a bumper harvest.
Whitney Street The garden programme looked at identifying the parts of the plant we eat as well as seasonal plants and the lifecycle of a plant. Students were planting seeds to take back and raise in classrooms.
In the classroom a discussion was being held about how to spend funds from the lemonade stall students had held the previous term. They decided to spend the money on buying a lemon tree and planting it outside their class in a wine barrel with strawberry plants so they could run the stall again. They also discussed buying popping corn plants and then completed an activity of different ways plants provide us food and how they do this either with a flower crop, a root crop or a leaf crop.
Mayfield Students were checking the progress of the plants they had put in the previous few weeks and talked about how they could look after them. They looked at soil health and did some soil testing.
The class was discussing the previous week’s report and remembering what activities they had done in the garden and class. They talked about issues protecting plants from predators and did an activity to match the parts of predators and what solutions they could use to control them.
Blenheim The garden lesson focused on crop rotation and why we move plants around. Plans were drawn of the garden and new seeds plotted on the plans. Students planted seeds in pots to take home and were talking about how to look after them as well as which part of the plant they could eat.
The class were doing an activity on which parts of the plants we eat and what we plant in spring as well as how to look after new seeds and seedlings.
MBC Special Needs Unit The teachers run a horticulture programme based on the KEG programme. Students were learning how to plant and space seeds and did a great activity comparing spacing of a seed shaker and a glue seed system. They then planted out carrot seeds and talked about recipes using the carrots. They checked their potato light boxes to see how long the eyes had grown and showed photos of their potato recipes.
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They then completed a picture challenge of how plants grows, showing if they were above or below the ground.
Renwick Students were preparing the soils for spring planting and checking the health of their soil. They looked at where they had buried Bokashi to see how it had improved the soil heath.
The class activity was based on the development of the Garden to Table programme. Students were discussing and designing the kitchen layout they would need to be able to cook the produce they were growing. They talked about the aims of the programme and how as well as providing food for students, they were also keen to supply elderly people living in their community with some meals such as soup or vegetable pies.
Bohally The programme is delivered in two ways at Bohally. All year seven students do a rotation in the garden as part of the environmental programme. The garden facilitator also supports year eight students as part of growing inquiry units. A second programme is also delivered to students who need more hands on learning opportunities. This programme follows the facilitated term programme and students come out each week to learn about the skills needed to grow a successful garden. This lesson was focussed on compost making and checking different soil types.
Springlands The garden lesson was on seed-raising and students were learning the germination process as well as planting out tomato seedlings into pots they had grown and were raising in the classroom. Students looked at plants in the garden to see what process they were in, in the lifecycle of a plant.
Students were using the maths lesson to learn about measurement and were measuring the growth of their plants and comparing them from the previous weeks and graphing this. They talked about the different stages of the plant and made predications about the sizes they thought their plant would be at the next stage of its process.
Seddon The facilitator had just finished due to a new employment opportunity, but had supporting classes to raise spring seedlings in their classroom and learn about the plant lifecycle as well as running an electives programme.
Tuamarina Programme is currently on hold while gardens are moved and reconstructed.
NB: Over the three weeks we visited, the facilitator programme we provide was focussed on composting, seeds, seed-raising and lifecycle of a plant.
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Awatere Water Supply (Birch Stream) – Earthquake Repairs Update (Information prepared by S Rooney) W450-003-001-11
During the Lake Grassmere earthquake the Council water tanks at Blind River (Atacama), Wheelers Hill and Flaxbourne Station were terminally damaged. Following on from full inspections of each site Council has been working to replace these tanks. The intention was to complete design and installation by Christmas, however due to tank manufacturing issues the programme has been delayed, and it is expected that Wheelers Hill will be completed before Christmas, Flaxbourne started and hopefully completed before Christmas, and Blind River started after Christmas.
Once the tanks are ready they will be delivered to each site. There will be some preliminary earthworks at the Blind River site, to upgrade the entranceway and construct a new access track. Council’s Biosecurity section has assisted with guidelines and will monitor the site to ensure there is no Chilean Needle Grass seed leaving the site.
The property owners where the tanks are located, and where access to the tanks is required, have been assisting Council staff and contractors to ensure there is readily available access with no delays.
There may be some short term disruptions to the water supply downstream of the tank sites, as each site is connected to the water supply network. Affected residents will be notified prior to any planned shutdown. Council is working with the Department of Conservation and Dominion Salt to ensure that any adverse impact from the reduced storage capacity is minimised.
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Emergency Management Activity Report
(Information prepared by J Foley/G Spence) C090-01
Rural Fire
Marlborough Kaikoura Rural Fire Authority (MKRFA)
MDC Zone update The MKRFA has been running training courses for rural fire crews in the Sounds and Kaikoura to increase the number of crews with fire environment knowledge, leading up to their Crew Leader assessment.
A day course was held at Te Mahia lodge on 5 October with crews from the Kenepuru, Waihopai, Canvastown and Rarangi fire forces attending.
Another course was held on 12 October at the community hall in Kaikoura with members from Goose Bay, Kaikoura and Awatere. Having a good understanding of the fire environment is a must for any fire fighter and a requirement to hold the unit standard if wishing to become a crew leader.
It is pleasing to see the number of volunteers taking on training to better themselves and their crews. Members have to juggle busy family lives, travelling to and from courses and at times work commitments. The fire authority wishes to extend its gratitude to all our volunteers, their families for the support and continued commitment to their communities.
The final crew leader course was held at the EOC on 19/20 October, the course contained a review of material learnt from the previous courses, exercises, visiting old fire sites to discuss what strategies were set on the day of the fires and a full day of scenario-based assessments for the candidates.
Three independent assessors undertook the role of assessing each candidate with all being signed off as obtaining the crew leader unit standard. This unit is not just given out for attending; all candidates who obtain this higher level unit have worked hard to achieve it.
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Further training courses to be held before the end of the year.
US3267: Emergency Response Driving Venues and dates: Emergency Management Response Centre; Blenheim: 16- 17 November
Light - Heavy 4WD Off-Road Driving Workshop
Venues and Dates: Seddon 4WD Course: 30th Nov
For more information on the MKRFA web site visit www.mkrfa.com
Mid-September saw rural fire crews respond into the most southern zone of the fire district. This was the first time crews had been deployed across the fire district to assist an area in need and all reports indicate a successful deployment and integration of personnel and resources, which included three fire crews, two medium rural 4WD appliances and a command/communications unit sent to Kaikoura to assist the NZFS brigade.
With extreme winds blowing, trees were being forced over falling through power lines causing vegetation fires. While dealing with one call another call came in advising another fire had started in a neighboring valley, being so close our response time was very quick keeping this fire to a relatively small area. This event proves the support across the wider district works and the cooperation between the Fire Service, Rural Fire and DOC crews was exceptional.
Rural fire crews respond to quake After the ground stopped shaking on 16 August a flood of calls started to pour into emergency services, reports of damaged buildings, collapsed bridges, house fires etc. Rural fire crews were deployed to support the fire service at a reported house fire at Ward. On their way there they were redeployed to the Seddon School to assist with setting up an Emergency Response Centre and to gather information from local residents.
Crews remained on site until Red Cross arrived to take over the Centre, from here rural crews assisted with going door to door within the Seddon township checking on residents’ wellbeing, returning the next day to do it all again. Sunday saw crews going door to door within the rural area. These crews form a valuable resource for our CDEM response. Some of the crews had damage to their homes but chose to assist with the wider response and deal with their own issues later.
Emergency Management
Earthquakes At 2:31:05 pm (NZST) on Friday 16 August the earth reminded us again of how unpredictably powerful it can be. The second earthquake epicentre was located about 10 km south-east of Seddon, under Lake Grassmere, with a focal depth of 8 km. The earthquake caused significant land damage in the local area, with landslips blocking roads, including the main highway between Blenheim and Christchurch. Buildings in Seddon were damaged, with some being declared uninhabitable.
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The EOC was immediately activated and set about gathering information in preparation of a response. This information was obtained from the various area CD Managers which gave us a picture of what areas to focus on. Information coming in told us that Seddon would be again the focus of our response.
A Blenheim rural fire crew in the area at the time were tasked with setting up an Emergency Response Centre at Seddon School and was quickly followed up by a Red Cross first response team. Over a period of two days the Response Centre looked after the interests of some 35 displaced residents.
Agencies and organisations involved with the response were:
Police, Fire, Rural Fire, Ambulance, Council, Land SAR, Red Cross.
Neighbourhood support Enquiries from residents interested in forming neighbourhood support groups have been consistent with approximately 60 groups now having made contact with us. The tag team of Russell Smith (Police) and Gary Spence have been attending regular neighbourhood meetings at residents’ request. The focus of these presentations is not only around crime prevention but resilience as families and communities in supporting each other.
District emergency response teams Interest is still strong in most areas, with some still trying to get off the ground.
Wairau Valley recently held an exercise focused around activation procedures and response to various scenarios.
A very enthusiastic group of some 30 locals participated with some role playing and others manning the centre. Great event with lots of feedback.
Training A recent session was held at the EOC with Council staff who are part of the (IMT) Incident Management Team. There were also members of the public present who were also interested in being part of the IMT. The purpose of the session was to reinforce roles and responsibilities as well as the importance of having an effective coordinated response. A regular training schedule is to be set up as a result of some of the discussions.
EMIS A dedicated group of EMIS operators has been set up. These people will be trained in using EMIS at a higher operational level. This will avoid staff with little experience having to struggle through its application requirements.
Emergency response team Work has started in forming an Emergency Response Team. Initially this six person team (eventually 12 to 15) will be trained in responding and setting up Emergency Response Centres in the Blenheim urban area. Once tasked this team will pack mobile equipment and activate pre-selected facilities. It is also thought this team would eventually progress into support roles for rural fire and other emergency agencies as well as training in light rescue etc.
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Reserves and Amenities Section Activity Report
(Information prepared by R Bartlett, R Hutchinson, R Dunn, N Crous, E Oldridge, R Blackburn, M Morgan) R510-009-000-01
Blenheim Parks and Reserves
Pollard Park The transition of the annual gardens from winter to summer designs and displays has begun.
With the last three months being drier than normal keeping the plants going through to November has been a big effort.
A number of trees suffered significant damage during the high winds last month. It is looking like two trees, one oak and one willow will need to be removed.
The frameworks for the new shade sails over the playground are in place just awaiting the sails to be installed.
Sections of pathway have been resealed following damage from tree roots.
Seymour The transition of the annual garden from winter to summer designs and displays has begun.
The warm months made it challenging to keep all the plants looking good for Garden Marlborough visitors this November. There was much positive feedback from Garden Marlborough regarding the gardens.
The large oak tree in the northwest corner suffered some damage during the high winds and will require some significant pruning to extent its life.
Oliver Park The first reported injury from use of the flying fox has been reported; unfortunately a father suffered a serious fracture to his leg when he tripped while pushing his children on the unit.
A & P Park A & P show and fireworks spectacular were recently held at the park.
Winter ground renovations will now be completed following these shows.
Athletic Park Summer sport is now in full swing at the park. Primary and rural schools’ athletics days along with individual schools using the park for both athletics and cross country have been held.
There has been a significant increase in casual use both running and biking around the tracks.
Thankfully there has been very little damage from the winds to the large trees in the park.
Blenheim Skate Park New lamps have been placed in the street lights surrounding the park to give better visibility to the CCTV cameras. The seating area in the south west corner has been removed and the storage area under the ramps has been filled in.
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The next job is to redesign and reinforce the chain link fence which keeps being cut with annoying regularity.
College Park A large liquidambar was damaged during high winds and is being removed in stages; once this is completed the area behind the garages will be tidied up and fenced.
The old caretaker’s house site has been cleared and is now providing extra car parking.
Reports of motorbikes and unattended dogs racing around the park are being dealt with by the Reserves Ranger during the course of his normal duties.
Eric Young Reserve A large plane tree blew over during the high winds this will be replaced in the autumn.
Covent Gardens Six silver birches that have been struggling to grow in and around the reserve where transplanted to a garden area in Sutherland Stream. Evergreen magnolias will replace the birches.
Lansdowne Park Following the Makos semi-final on Saturday the ground was converted to a football surface for a Canterbury v Nelson fixture.
This was a great exercise and the first time the No. 1 field has been able to be used for two consecutive high level games in one weekend. The process was enjoyed by those involved that took approximately two and half hours to complete.
The success of the game and enjoyment of the surface has meant more football fixtures are booked in for Lansdowne Park. The weekend of 30 November/1 December Canterbury United Youth and NZKS Nelson Marlborough Falcons team will play and on 19 January 2014, ASB Youth League game Heartland Wairarapa V NZKS Nelson Marlborough Falcons.
In between these games the NZ South Island marching champs is to be held on the park.
Riverside Park Public use of sections of this park has been restricted due to works on and around the theatre and the installation of a sculpture piece. An alternative pathway has been built to get the public around the fenced off building sites.
A very large hoheria was removed after being damaged during the recent high winds.
The rivers section has begun the machine weed cut in this section of river which should rid the area of the accumulation of the weed build up.
Taylor River – Lower Rubbish from fireworks was a big issue this year. It seems that the Taylor River was the place to go to let off fireworks and leave rubbish behind. Council bylaws ban the lighting of fireworks on reserves. Daily rubbish runs early in the morning were instigated from the day fireworks went on sale.
The Reserves Ranger is following up on a number of leads from police who have spoken to people igniting fireworks on reserves.
A community planting was held early September with 900 native plants being planted within pre-prepared riparian panels between Monro and High Streets. An additional small native planting by NMIT has taken
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place further up-stream. Ongoing maintenance and initial watering will take place on these plants to aid their establishment.
Winter flowering gums have also been planted up towards the Burleigh Bridge and within the farm park for additional tui food.
A “Trees of the World”, draft landscape planting plan is being prepared, based on Ralph and Helen Ballinger’s Arboretum Annual Plan submission. This builds on tree species that currently exist, with additional trees of interest proposed that suit the various soil types within the River Reserve. A tree map and signage is also proposed, to identify tree species, their country of origin and interesting facts.
Taylor River – Upper With the severe winds, several trees have come down along the Taylor River. Several large old dead gum trees are becoming dangerous along the Benmorven Track, with one falling across the track that has now been cleared. Others that are a potential risk to track users will be removed or trimmed shortly. Regular mowing of the Upper Taylor Track and berms up to the Taylor Dam is currently being priced.
The stepping stones have been installed for the summer season by the Rivers Section at Benmorven and the Mountain Bike Park crossing locations. Larger rocks have been used this time, as has been successfully used in Quail Stream.
Grovetown Lagoon Design and planning is underway for a bridge across Drain A located beside Steam Wharf Road and the Sadd pig farm. This will form the first stage of the proposed loop track that will take walkers around the Lagoon perimeter. Along with regular email and hardcopy newsletters, management plans, work plans and budgets have been prepared, which will assist with programming and funding development for maintenance.
Further working bees have taken place over spring and the Trust’s AGM was held in October.
Kahikatea Reserve, Spring Creek Spring Creek School assisted again with this year’s spring planting of 1200 eco-sourced plants. This is being done as part of the ongoing Marlborough Landscape Group, Reserves and Rivers restoration project of this low-lying floodplain which builds on the stand of remnant Kahikatea trees. Planting is proposed to be completed prior to 2018, with interpretation panels and public access tracks constructed through and around the reserve perimeter. Outstanding growth rates and forest establishment is occurring.
Wither Hills Farm Park
Rifle Range carpark Grazing of the events area behind Rifle Range carpark is being trialled, now the trees are becoming established within this area. The farm manager will mow after grazing to maintain a tidy finish in this high use area.
Events The Mountain Bike Park is being used frequently for club racing and events.
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Mountain bike and walking track upgrade and additional signage The Mountain Bike Club is holding several working bees within the mountain bike park to upgrade tracks, after the winter and heavy rain events. Some excavator work is proposed to upgrade tracks around the Farm Park.
An approach has been made by college students for an area within the Mountain Bike Park to be identified as being a suitable site for construction of a small jumps area. It is anticipated that they may be accommodated up behind the Mountain Bike carpark on a flat terrace.
Weed control Further release cutting and spraying around oaks and other trees within the Mountain Bike Park is proposed shortly to aid their establishment. Further gorse and broom spraying is also proposed within the Farm Park including selected control within the QE II Covenant.
Fire danger and subdivision development impacts A meeting has been held to discuss the forth-coming summer season and a further meeting is planned to discuss farming and recreation needs in relation to on-going sub-division.
Renwick Reserves
Renwick Domain Another successful Gavin Roberts football tournament (approximately 400 players from around New Zealand) was held at the park. The combination of the new pavilion and large sports events is working well.
Lions Reserve Council Rivers section has carried out some work along the creek, which has significantly improved the reserve access to the creek and the passive recreational opportunities for visitors to the creek. The maintenance contract will be adapted to take the changes into account.
Kowhai Reserve One mature tree has been brought down in this reserve in the recent strong gale-force winds.
Rousehill Reserve The large gum trees in this reserve are being closely monitored for safety issues. Fortunately they have had attention from our contractor’s arborists during the past winter.
Hammond Reserve Contractors are replacing the trees which have died along the reserve perimeter.
Awatere and Flaxbourne Reserves
Awatere A meeting was held with representatives from the Awatere Community Trust, APL staff and Council staff to discuss earthquake repairs and the future of the Awatere Memorial Hall. The key action points from the meeting were:
1. Clean up remove ceiling tiles (APL to action this ASAP).
2. Kitchen upgrade (ACT to Action).
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3. Design and costing of earthquake upgrade work and ceiling lowering (APL to action and communicate with ACT for anything additional that may come out of this).
4. Confirmation of what the community needs with regards to the Hall (ACT to work with the community on this).
5. Ten Year Hall Maintenance plan (APL to action in conjunction with ACT).
Flaxbourne The Flaxbourne Community Hall is waiting for an assessment from APL after the earthquakes. All other buildings have been assessed.
Picton Reserves
Queen Charlotte Lookout Litter at this location is now increasing – no doubt due to the seasonal influx of visitors.
Picton Foreshore The Lions cruise ship craft markets have now begun (on London Quay), the first ship having arrived on Tuesday 8 October. The last scheduled ship comes into port on 13 April, after a break for the month of March. Servicing of public toilets and control of irrigation will be managed around the markets. It is expected that the Farmers’ Markets will also be held on the foreshore again this season.
A concession application has been received for the operation of water-bikes (pedal-type) and Zorbing off the foreshore. There is a water-based concession still available on the foreshore and the Reserves section is liaising with the harbourmaster, Abel Properties and the prospective concessionaire to determine how best to permit the activity in a safe and sustainable manner.
The proposal for the water slide on the foreshore has been included in the Foreshore Draft Management Plan in order to allow the Picton public to comment on the application.
Shelley Beach This location is very popular with freedom campers and Armourguard staff regularly deal with visitors who attempt to camp overnight. The Queen Charlotte Yacht Club has requested a longer lease-period for their new lease at Shelley Beach, as the Yacht Club building is apparently in need of significant repairs, which the Club is reluctant to seek funding for if the current short five-year lease remains in place.
High Street The banners in Picton have been badly damaged by high winds. New traffic management requirements have made the job of replacing them difficult for contractors. Staff will be looking at alternatives for Picton.
Waikawa Foreshore Downers contracting has provided a proposal and a quotation to address the problems of stormwater overflow and the issues it creates in the carpark adjacent to the Rowing Club. It is envisaged that the work will be carried out shortly.
Victoria Domain The Sounds Restoration Trust will undertake wilding pine control within the domain before the end of the year. A local volunteer, Eric Gledhill continues to target pine, wattle, robinia and sycamore within the domain, and this is greatly appreciated. Follow-up seedling control work will also take place within the Arthur Crescent Reserve, Waikawa.
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Northern Marlborough/Sounds
Koromiko Forest Reserve Year 5 students from Picton School recently planted 1,000 eco-sourced plants at the reserve. After closing of the former Deer Park 10 years ago native plantings are now well established. An interpretation panel will be installed shortly, inviting the public to enjoy the walk through it.
Planting at Koromiko
Okiwi Bay Signage has been installed to indicate dogs are not permitted within 3 metres of a playground at Tunnicliffe Reserve, after issues have been identified with people having their dogs in the play area. These signs are also being installed at other Council managed playgrounds.
A meeting was held with the Okiwi Bay Residents’ Association to discuss future reserve development and drainage issues within the trailer park reserve and around the hall and emergency management centre.
Public Conveniences
Blenheim High Street This facility seems to become blocked on a regular basis – plumbers have indicated that it is usually due to disposable nappies being shoved into the toilet.
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Picton Foreshore The servicing frequency for London Quay and the foreshore toilets has increased over this season to address the additional usage caused by the craft markets and foreshore events.
Endeavour Pavilion The public toilet in the pavilion has now been opened for 24/7 use – one cubicle has been made available for the general public and this is now also disabled-accessible. A hand-drier will be installed shortly to prevent the requirement for paper towels.
Awarua Community Centre, Spring Creek The interior upgrade of these toilets has been completed and the facility will be made available to the public for use shortly, once the signage has been installed.
Seddon This facility remains closed (due to earthquake damage) pending a report from APL about the condition of the building. OCS contractors continue to service the two portaloos provided for public use. Capital funding is available to provide the town with a new facility on this location within the current budget year.
Cemeteries
Fairhall New ashes gardens are currently being installed in the tree ashes area and development of the perimeter boundary between the traditional cemetery area and the natural burials area development continues.
Havelock A new seat and table have been installed in the central gazebo, thanks to the bequest of J Brownlie.
Picton A new entrance/memorial wall is currently being installed at the entrance to the new Picton cemetery. The roadside face of the wall reflects the name of the cemetery, while the inside will serve as a memorial wall for plaques of remembrance.
Swimming Pools
Seddon Pool The changing sheds and office building for this facility is currently closed as it is waiting for an assessment from APL after the earthquakes.
General
Planning
Draft Picton Foreshore Reserve Management Plan Submissions for this document close on Friday 15 November. Over 100 submissions have been received to date and there have been some constructive and well
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thought out suggestions. Three workshops have been held in Picton with approximately 50 people at the first one, 80 at the second and four at the third. A hearing will be scheduled for early 2014 for those who have indicated they would like to speak to their submissions. The final plan will be presented to the Assets and Services Committee.
Bothams Bend Equestrian Park The resource consent for the equestrian park has been granted so work is expected to begin soon.
Marlborough District Council’s Outdoor Sports Facilities Plan A newsletter has been sent out to all sports codes giving them an update on progress since the plan was adopted by Council in 2011. This includes the impressive progress of the equestrian group, the development of the area adjoining Lansdowne Park (Lansdowne A) for softball, a concept plan for the multi-use of the current Lansdowne Park (Lansdowne B) and the Indoor Sports Facilities Plan.
Link Pathway Trust – progress The Link Pathway Trust Inc has now been registered with eight trustees representing associated organisations, including DOC, Council, Outward Bound, Tirimoana and Linkwater residents and businesses. A formal agreement is now in place with DOC to construct and maintain the planned pathway.
Another abandoned and forgotten bridle path has been discovered on the Havelock side of Cullen Point and a survey line down the other side into Belvue Bay has been determined and marked. Volunteers from Outward Bound and the army cadets have contributed 140 plus hours to track work over recent weeks.
An application to the Canterbury Community Trust for $70,000 has been made for the development of track between Ngakuta Bay and the Wedge. An introductory workshop half day for prospective volunteer track construction supervisors is planned before year’s end.
Rangers’ Report (Information prepared by M Morgan/K Hawkins) R510-006-02 & R510-005-04
Graffiti
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Freedom Camping
General
Street Tree and Plot Maintenance Contract Recent severe winds have resulted in some damage and tree losses to street trees. Contractors have been kept busy responding to calls and these events impact on tight budgets. Approximately 45 new street trees have been planted this spring, along with an additional 33 trees along SH 1 at Blenheim’s northern entrance. Watering has commenced early this year due to the windy, dry conditions to ensure the trees establish successfully.
Vandals have recently snapped off five semi- established liquidambar trees along Scott Street and three others in Witherlea. At a replacement and watering cost of $250 per tree, the cost of this damage is considerable.
Several street trees require removal due to old age, significant dead wood and decline, or are causing footpath or services damage. A street tree renewal report to address these issues will be presented at this committee meeting.
Street tree data capture will commence this month as part of the street tree contract, and will update Council’s records on the number and condition of the district’s estimated 5700 street trees. This will greatly assist future tree replacement planning and budgeting.
UFB roll-out continues, with most installation being done by drilling below 500 mm, with reduced impact on street trees. Resource Consents have been approved for install work around protected trees.
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Hanging baskets These have again been grown by Nelmac and installed prior to Garden Marlborough.
Street plot replant The CBD street plots have recently been bulked up as have several other plots around Witherlea. Replanting of the large street plot opposite the Civic Theatre site is underway, after it was cleared for services installation.
Heritage trees A policy is being formulated on the future management of heritage trees with several Council staff involved, to establish what Council staff’s role is, and to improve information available internally and to the public.
Road Safety Coordinator Update (Information prepared by R Blackburn) R855-19-001
General A CarFit event focusing on ensuring older drivers have their cars set up for safe driving was held on 27 September with 16 drivers attending. These events are held in the carpark at EMOC and are supported by a number of volunteers representing local organisations including Age Concern, Greypower, NMDHB, Rotary, local driving instructors, and Council.
A mobility scooter workshop was held on 16 October at the Springlands Bowling Club rooms with 12 users attending. These workshops include presentations by Constable Russ Smith discussing the legal rights of mobility scooter users and offences that can occur, Stef Sanders from Marlborough Roads discussing how footpath faults can be reported and how his organisation can assist users, and Bill Mitchell from Avanti Plus discussing scooter maintenance.
Kim Anderson with her road safety puppet ‘Sunny Girl’ has just about completed her work delivering road safety messages to pre-schools and Kindergartens. A full evaluation of how useful teachers found the programme is expected in December and will assist with the design of the programme for 2014.
A comprehensive ’20 km/h past a school bus’ campaign has just been completed culminating in being one of the focus points for police stops in October and November. The programme included an article in the newspaper, articles distributed to all schools for inclusion in their newsletters home, and flyers with other promotional material included in the giveaway packs to Clued Up Kids students. This campaign was supported by Council, Marlborough Rural Women’s, Police, and other members of the community
Another comprehensive informative campaign that has been underway since October relates to the use of child restraints and of the Law change on 1 November 2013. Plunket, MDC, and Police have held two information stops outside Redwoodtown and Springlands Kindergartens handing out information packs. Plunket has visited a number of primary schools in the region distributing information packs and presenting the changes to the students and staff. Plunket will also be involved handing out packs at the
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A & P show. SafeKids have been promoting the changes through radio advertising, and an article appeared recently in the newspaper relating to the law change.
The last Road Safety Action Plan committee meeting for the year was held at Council on 29 October and Chaired by Councillor Barsanti. Police, ACC, Marlborough Roads/NZTA, and Council presented evaluations of programmes and campaigns at the meeting. Future programmes and campaigns were discussed.
Safety of motorcycles Motorcycle training courses were held in September and October with another four training days being offered before the end of April. Attracting riders, particularly new riders to the courses is proving a challenge and it is hoped that riders who do attend will talk of the training benefits to others.
ACC are funding on-road training but is yet to offer a training course in Marlborough.
The Police Referral system has now been implemented and already riders have been through the training offered in lieu of the infringement fine. This will be continued until the end of June when an evaluation will be completed with Police support. School based training for college students is still planned for the future.
The Marlborough Motorcycle Road Safety Group will have their final meeting for the year in November. It was disappointing to see that a proposal made by the group to The Motorcycle Safety Advisory Council to fund a regular national magazine was rejected. The group is well aware of the funds that this ACC funded Council have to promote road safety for Motorcyclists.
Alcohol/drug impaired driving The ‘Know Your Limit Campaign’ that has been planned all year will finally be kicked off in November on the back of a similar campaign being implemented for the second year in Nelson and Tasman. This campaign will focus on young people and the amount they drink, in both rural and urban off-licence, on-licences, and public place. MDC, Police and NMDHB will be involved with the planning and the implementation of the campaign with other organisations invited to lend their support.
The campaign was delayed while investigative research was undertaken by consultants to ascertain alcohol harm issues in Marlborough. This project was jointly funded by ACC and Council.
Distraction A radio campaign is currently underway promoting the need to deduce driver distractions. The campaign incorporates radio advertising and ‘Take action on Distraction’ Scratch and Win cards that are distributed to radio listeners through various radio competitions.
Safety of young drivers Three Learner Licence courses and two Restricted Licence courses have been held since January with the support of Supporting Families, Police, local driving instructors, MDC, and REAP. As Supporting Families has been able to subsidise the cost of the tests there has been no lack of interest in the courses. Because the criteria for registration is that students must be either driving outside the restrictions of their Licence or at risk of doing so, there are eligibility restrictions.
The courses are constantly adjusted to provide a better learning environment and this is reflected in the success of the later courses in terms of the number of students passing their tests. 11 students out of the
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21 who sat their Learner’s test passed after our first course while 11 out of 12 students passed the Learner test from the course in October.
The Restricted Driving Licence courses are more complicated to evaluate in terms of the numbers passing as some students have yet to sit their test. These courses are proving to be very successful, not only because Supporting Families are able to subsidise the test again but also because the two local driving instructors are offering subsidised driving lessons to students.
At this time 8 out of 12 students from the August course have passed their test, and 2 have booked their test. Of the 18 students who attended the July training 7 have passed their test, 4 have booked their test and the others do not have their licence for a variety of reasons including too many demerits! Another Restricted course is tentatively planned for December.
A tabloid is due out at the end of November with the focus on young drivers. This will include information on licences, modifying vehicles, and true stories about crashes involving young drivers.
BikeWalk Marlborough (Information prepared by R Dunn) R495-07
NZ Cycle Trail signage has been installed from the Blenheim i-SITE through to the Hanmer i-SITE along the Molesworth Muster Trail, now being an approved NZCT summer connector route.
The Discover Blenheim and Renwick, street and bike/walk map has recently been updated. Other updates include the Wither Hills and Mountain Bike Park map, Central Wairau Plains map and a new Lower Wairau Plains bike/walk map is currently being developed.
Attached are the October minutes.
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File Ref: C230-001-B03 Minutes of BikeWalk Marlborough Meeting held in the Committee Room, Marlborough District Council on Tuesday 8 October 2013 commencing at 1.00 pm
Present Clr Terry Sloan (Chairman), Robin Dunn (Bike Walk Marlborough Co-ordinator), Ray Clearwater and Hazel Monk (RideOn Marlborough), Jo Hill (Wine Tours by Bike), John Craighead, Robyn Blackburn (MDC Road Safety Co-ordinator), Lynne Haines (Avantiplus Blenheim) and David Craig (MDC).
In Attendance Brenda Burr (Secretary, MDC).
Apologies Kristen Dempster, Brigid Forrest and Andrew James (Marlborough Roads Safety Engineer),
Resolved: “That apologies be sustained.” (R Blackburn/J Criaghead) Carried.
Minutes Confirmed Resolved: “That the minutes of the meeting held on 13 August 2013 be taken as read and confirmed as a true and correct record.” (D Craig/R Dunn) Carried.
Matters Arising – Action Points • Provision of Details – Funding Sources for RideOn Marlborough – Robin Dunn explained that the RideOn group is in a transition stage, with Sonya Sutherland, the new co-ordinator under Sport Tasman, due to take up the role on 14 October. Robin has a good list of funding sources, which will be followed up once Sonya has settled into her role. It was agreed to let this item ‘lie on the table’. • Report on Discussions with School Principals re Reduction of Speed – Robyn Blackburn advised that the group is concentrating on safety issues on Nelson and McLauchlan Streets as a first priority. Robin Dunn elaborated on the locations ear-marked for variable speed signs. • Rough Edges on Rapaura Road – As Andrew James was not at the meeting, there was no update. • Safety of Vineyard Workers on the Roads – Robyn Blackburn and Robin Dunn had both spoken with Jean Rooney, who has a pastoral care role with some of the vineyard workers, when she was at Council in another role. Jean had confirmed that all workers are issued with hi-viz vests however she undertook to reiterate the safety message with these people. • Follow-up with Arthur Phillips of NMDHB – Robyn mentioned there was no update at this stage. • Update on Discussions with Andrew James on Traffic ‘Hot Spots’ – Robin Dunn said he has looked at various traffic ‘hot spots’ with Andrew James, particularly on Scott Street near
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Marlborough Boys’ College, where there are high numbers of movements a day as the boys cross between the school and College Park. The Weld/Stephenson Street corner was also viewed and improvements are planned. Robin and Andrew also looked at the proposed Spring Creek rail corridor. Lynne suggested the idea of community help in forming tracks however Robin advised it is difficult to use volunteer help in such cases due to rail/road safety, the heavy work involved and on-going maintenance requirements.
Initially the section from Aberharts Road to Fell Street, Grovetown has been identified. This stretch includes 120 meters of open drain to pipe. Robin has contacted Kiwi Rail to notify of proposed construction of this new section and to check the validity of the licence agreement made some time ago. He has also engaged Khalid Suleiman of Smart Alliances to do costings. It is hoped to complete this first section in the current financial year with the remainder to Spring Creek done next year. The track surface will probably be rotten rock pending completion of the entire track to Spring Creek.
In answer to a query as to any benefit to Rivers Section of installing a drain pipe, Robin agreed to discuss this with Geoff Dick of Rivers.
• Update Bike Walk Strategy (Track Development) – Robin tabled copies of the Marlborough Track Upgrade and Development Programme and elaborated on work completed. Some areas cannot be completed due to funding requirements. Clr Sloan alluded to the proposed Fulton Stream path and mentioned that there had been strong resistance to development in the past from a parent involved with both Bohally School and the Girls’ College due to perceived safety issues. This person has now left the district. Terry has spoken to the Bohally Principal and Girls’ College Deputy Principal who are both very supportive. Terry undertook to follow up on this issue. Robin advised that the Taylor River now has good tracks from town to the Taylor Dam and it is hoped to eventually have access on both sides. Once the extended railway line is in place to the Aviation Museum, it is planned to also have a connection for cyclists and walkers. It is also planned to extend the Sutherland Street path from Alabama Road to town adjacent to the de Castro subdivision, however has to wait until land development takes place. There are opportunities along the Opawa River with the development of the new sports park to link with Lansdowne Park. There is also huge potential for an off-road wine trail using a network of stopbanks along the Opawa River. There is a need for key people to progress this idea. Various ideas were discussed and it was agreed that this should be ‘work-shopped’. People who could be involved are Jo Hill (Wine Tours by Bike), Lynne Haines (AvantiPlus), Marcus Pickens (Wine Marlborough), Tracy Johnston (Destination Marlborough), Robyn Blackburn and Robin Dunn (MDC). Jo indicated that Forrest Winery is keen to see this developed and mentioned that she has sent 80 cycle tourists recently to Forrest Winery. With several potential track construction or upgrade projects identified and with limited funding, Robin questioned whether members considered the Spring Creek trail is a priority to complete, and this was confirmed. It was agreed that Robin Dunn and Robyn Blackburn would co-ordinate a workshop with the aim of identifying potential routes and wineries with obvious linkages, and a facilitator.
• Editorial on the Danger of Drivers Reversing across Footpaths – Robyn confirmed that this had been done.
Road Safety Co-ordinator Update – Robyn Blackburn • The group looking at safety around schools has met recently and received good feedback from Andrew James of Marlborough Roads.
• The results are in of the 2013 school travel survey, but not yet collated. Robyn commented that 100% of Fairhall School pupils travel by car or bus.
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There was some discussion on the proposed road widening improvements on New Renwick Road and it is hoped that once this work is done at least some pupils will cycle to school.
• The RideOn meetings are now held at Sport Tasman. Sue Bush covers cycle safety and the RideOn group cover cycle skills however there are still some differences in philosophy to be worked through.
Comments John Craighead and Lynne Haines both expressed the need for education and training of older cyclists. John mentioned that Russell Hopkins of Grey Power executive was their representative on the community HUBs organisation. Ray Clearwater indicated his willingness to be involved as a trainer. John undertook to talk with Russell and discuss possibilities.
RideOn Marlborough Update – Hazel Monk • The RideOn programme has been run in three schools recently, being Rapaura (30 participants), Whitney Street (34 participants) and Canvastown (36 participants). Two days (23 and 25 October) have been set aside for Redwoodtown School. There will also be three more programmes before the end of the year for the Home Educators group, as well as Picton and Mayfield Schools.
Comments Robyn Blackburn mentioned some issues with getting trainers assessed for the NZQA qualification, plus the expense of renewing their qualification annually. As a result, the RideOn group is looking at in-house training. Ray also agreed with Robyn’s comments.
Education and Promotion Community Activities Update Cycling/Running/Walking Activities – Lynne Haines • The inaugural Marina to Marina event is on this Sunday, 13 October. • Molesworth Run in November. • Women’s Triathlon on 1 December – an encouraging number of entries at this stage. • Local rides for all levels of fitness and expertise. • Summer programme for harriers will start soon. • Cuddons cycling and track cycling. • The summer programme for the Mountain Bike Club starts in two weeks.
Bike Walk Activity Update – Robin Dunn In addition to the information given above, Robin mentioned:
• Reflectors were installed two months ago on barriers and at strategic places on the Riverlands trail. • Signage is being installed for the New Zealand Cycle Trail through Molesworth. • Consultation was held this morning with Marlborough Roads regarding the two proposed Springlands roundabouts. It is planned to provide cycle lanes and shared paths. Robin undertook to present the second draft for the next meeting. • The Grovetown Lagoon Group is working on forming a walking track right around the lagoon. • The Link Pathways Trust is meeting this Thursday and has an agreement with DOC for the use of DOC land, so they can continue with this off-road development between Havelock and Picton.
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Comments Clr Sloan raised the issue of re-marking of cycle lanes on Maxwell Road and Seymour Street. Robin advised that Marlborough Roads intend to re-do the double lines on Stop signs etc and he will remind Andrew James about re-painting the lines and symbols on the cycle lanes.
In response to a suggestion of small sections of cycle lane being marked on roundabouts, Robin advised that there was no easy answer. In his opinion cyclists should ‘claim the lane’ for the direction they are cycling so that drivers stop their vehicles behind any cyclist. Novice cyclists are best to dismount and use a crossing.
CAN and National Scene Updates – Robin Dunn Robin advised that he had emailed information to all members.
General Business Secure Cycle Storage Report - MBC Robin tabled a document from the Boys’ College that was the culmination of discussions between Hazel Monk and Youth Council representatives of the College. It was indicated that the College had raised $15,000 of the total estimated cost of $20,000 to $24,000, to contribute to a fenced compound to secure bikes. There was some discussion around the whole concept, with questions such as: • Where is the Youth Council getting its direction from? • Is the area big enough? • How many cyclists are they catering for/what is the current number/future predictions? • Is this the best location within the school grounds? • How often will the gates be open?
It was agreed that Clr Sloan and Robin Dunn would arrange a visit and discussion with the Youth Council representatives.
Correspondence Letter to: • Tina Fortune – Expressing thanks for her time and effort as co-ordinator of the cycle training programme in schools through the RideOn group. • Marlborough Sports – Endorsing cycle skills and the track cycling summer programme.
Monster Trucks Robyn Blackburn advised that she is to meet with Neil of Monster Trucks on Friday to discuss his idea to be involved with schools in promoting safety around vehicles.
Crash and Near Miss Reports Robyn Blackburn mentioned there are only two or three reports a month coming in and it was agreed that Robyn would do an annual media item showing the numbers reported.
Appreciation • Clr Sloan mentioned that this was John Craighead’s final meeting as a member of the committee. He thanked John for his hard work and contribution and these remarks were reiterated by Robin Dunn. It was agreed that John would continue to receive meeting notes and other items of interest on walking and cycling.
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• Robin Dunn also mentioned that it was Brenda Burr’s last meeting as a Council Secretary before retiring later in November. Brenda was also thanked for her contribution and interest in the group, and also invited to continue attending as a walking and cycling enthusiast.
Closure The meeting closed at 2.40 pm and was followed by afternoon tea.
Next Meeting The next meeting is to be held on Tuesday 10 December 2013 at 1.00 pm in the Committee Room.
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Actions from Meeting No. Action Person Responsible
1. Update on provision of details of funding sources for RideOn Marlborough. Robin D.
2. Discuss with Geoff Dick of Rivers Section any advantage of installing a drain Robin D. pipe in the rail corridor north of Aberharts Road as part of the cycleway.
3. Follow up with Bohally and Girls’ College Principals the proposed Fulton Stream Clr Sloan path development.
4. Co -ordinate a workshop to discuss an off-road wine trail and identify the wineries Robin D & with obvious linkages. Robyn B.
5. Talk with Russell Hopkins and discuss possibilities of cycle training and John C education for older cyclists.
6. Provide copies, for the next meeting, of the second draft of proposed Robin D. roundabouts at Middle Renwick Road.
7. Remind Andrew James about re-painting the lines and symbols on the cycle Robin D. lanes.
8. Clr Sloan and Robin Dunn arrange a visit and discussion with the Youth Council Clr Sloan / representatives regarding the proposed Secure Cycle Storage area at MBC> Robin D.
Record No: 13374741
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