Agenda of Strategy and Policy Committee - Wednesday, 19 February 2025

Strategy and Policy Committee Agenda – 19 February 2025

7.2 Independent Peer Review Report on Te Waikoropupū Springs Water Conservation Order Catchment

Decision Required

Report To:	Strategy and Policy Committee
Meeting Date:	19 February 2025
Report Author:	Joseph Thomas, Principal Scientist - Water & Special Projects
Report Authorisers:	Rob Smith, Group Manager - Environmental Science
Report Number:	RSPC25-02-3

1. Purpose of the Report / Te Take mō te Pūrongo

1.1 For Council to receive and endorse the recommendations of the independent peer review report, which is attached to the report as Attachment 1, of monitoring associated with the Te Waikoropupū Springs (TWS) and its recharge area (catchment).

2. Summary / Te Tuhinga Whakarāpoto

2.1 The independent peer reviewer, Murray Close of the Institute of Environmental Science and Research (ESR) a Crown Research Institute, visited the area twice in July and October 2024 and has engaged with key stake holders and partners in the catchment related to the Water Conservation Order (WCO), including Ngāti Tama and the Golden Bay Community Board.

2.2 The peer reviewer has reviewed key documents and data related to the water conservation order and has also engaged with a range of technical experts that were involved in the hearings for the WCO.

2.3 The peer reviewer’s key recommendation in relation to monitoring are for monthly monitoring for a range of water quality parameters at seven groundwater sites, three springs sites (all within the Te Waikoropupū Springs) and six surface water sites. An initial extensive list of parameters is recommended to be tested to establish overall background levels and then to be followed by lesser number of parameters for the subsequent testing rounds (Tables 1 & 2 of the peer review report).

2.4 The seven groundwater sites and six surface water sites are in the recharge area of the Wharepapa Arthur Marble Aquifer (WAMA) – Figure 4 of the peer review report. Two of the spring sites are already currently part of the monthly monitoring required in the WCO but are monitored for only nitrate and dissolved reactive phosphorous compared with the larger number of parameters recommended by the peer reviewer.

2.5 The cost estimate for the analytical cost in the first year for the sites and testing parameters is around $60,000 + GST (excluding staff time).

2.6 The peer reviewer has made recommendations on the analytical methods and for methods for removal of outliers before statistical analysis and provides the reasons for this.

2.7 The peer reviewer has reviewed data from the different labs and methods for sample testing from the TWS. Council has been sampling the main spring of TWS since 1990 as part of the National Groundwater Monitoring Programme (NGMP) – the quarterly sampling is carried out by Tasman District Council (Tasman/Council) and testing carried out since 1994 at the New Zealand Geothermal Analytical Laboratory (NZGL) of the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS). GNS only tests two sites in Tākaka as part of the NGMP. All the rest of Council’s current catchment monitoring testing is done by Hills Laboratory.

2.8 Peer reviewer has reviewed the different methods used by the labs and their sensitivity. The peer reviewer states that there is some uncertainty with data from the GNS testing prior to 2018 due to the regular method (Ion Chromatography) employed but since then GNS has employed a lower sensitivity method. The Hills methods for low level nitrates (Cadmium Reduction) which Council carries out now is noted by the peer reviewer as the appropriate method compared with the less sensitive ion chromatography method of Hills Laboratory.

2.9 The peer reviewer recommends that the Council should be responsible for carrying out the monitoring programme as they are the agency with responsibility for implementing the WCO and is the responsible statutory body.

2.10 For consistency with the overall catchment monitoring the peer reviewer recommends monitoring should continue with the primary provider of this testing for Tasman (currently Hills Laboratory) and that Council should also support the NGMP quarterly sampling for GNS.

2.11 The peer reviewer has recommended that the monitoring data be reviewed after 12 months of sampling. This review is to assess whether the parameters analysed and the sampling frequencies for each site are appropriate. In the interim period of this review happening, the same monthly frequency and suite of parameters should continue to be tested. The peer reviewer has also provided guidance if there is a change in access to any site recommended in his report for an alternative site as replacement.

2.12 The peer reviewer has identified the need to check the landcover database should there be updates and for checking this as part of the after 12-month review. This is in relation to a particular site (off Long Plain Road) with regards to the potential input of nitrogen, from gorse, and to consider if it’s worthwhile to install a further monitoring well in the area.

2.13 The peer reviewer has identified the collation of Farm Environment Plans to be valuable with regards to the inputs to models, nitrogen inputs, and farm management practices over time. The peer reviewer has suggested that the landowner collective assign someone to collate and provide averaged or similar data to Council to protect privacy and commercial sensitivity.

2.14 The peer reviewer has also highlighted a range of potential investigations to assist the monitoring programme. These have not been costed as they are possibilities, could involve other parties and are opportunistic. The range of potential investigations include:

(a) Work to understand the dynamics of the various cave systems, creeks, springs and interactions with the Tākaka River – this based on his discussions with the caving community. Partial funding of water tracing studies to establish connection with various features is suggested.

(b) Opportunistic sampling of caves and springs undertaken by cavers during exploration and mapping of the cave systems in the area.

(c) Investigations to assist and support better farming practices in the recharge area which could contribute to the maintenance and improvement of water quality at TWS. It is stated in the report that effective monitoring of specific farm practices is likely to require more intensive and localised placement of sampling sites and the lag time and uncertainty on what happens on a particular farm and impacts the further you move away from that location. Peer reviewer suggests that a range of funding sources could be available for investigations designed for farming practices that can mitigate against adverse impacts on water quality. The management of sink holes, farm effluent management and evaluation of feed types on farms is also suggested.

(d) Identification of potential impacts of gorse and broom on nitrate leaching and a suggestion of possible short term investigations on this from an area just outside the recharge area.

(e) If new deep bores (>100m) are drilled in the recharge area - that these wells be sampled for water quality and the results included in the Council database.

(f) The value of the synoptic surveys carried out in the catchment in the past is noted and proposes for one to be carried out in 2026 re 10 years from the previous one undertaken by Council.

(g) Possibility of groundwater ecosystem monitoring as part of future monitoring programme.

3. Recommendation/s / Ngā Tūtohunga

That the Strategy and Policy Committee

1. receives the independent peer review report on Te Waikoropupū Springs Water Conservation Order Catchment report, RSPC25-02-3; and

2. endorses the independent peer review report on The Review of Monitoring associated with Te Waikoropupū Springs (Attachment 1 of the agenda report); and

3. endorses staff to implement the monthly sampling programme as proposed; and

4. requests staff consider the proposed opportunistic sampling options suggested in the report as part of future Annual Plan or Long Term Plan budget considerations; and

5. requests that consideration be given for the current peer reviewer to carry out the 12 monthly review post data collection.

4. Background / Horopaki

4.1 The Environment Court granted a Water Conservation Order (WCO) for Te Waikoropupū Springs (TWS) which took effect from 19 October 2023. The court, in its recommendation report, recommended that the Tasman District Council’s (Tasman/Council) arrange for an independent peer review of the current monitoring programme with recommendations for a future programme to protect the springs.

4.2 Tasman commissioned ESR re Murray Close – Principal Groundwater Quality Scientist to carry out this work.

4.3 The key goals for the future monitoring programme derived from the WCO recommendations report for the peer reviewer were:

· Enable compliance with the court directions for monitoring, namely collection and analysis of monthly samples from the TWS Main Spring and Fish Creek Spring sites to enable calculation of the five yearly rolling average for nitrate, DRP and dissolved oxygen.

· To provide early warning of changes in up-catchment water quality that could adversely affect the values of the TWS.

· To ensure that reliance can be placed on monitoring results to contribute to the preservation and protection of TWS.

· To provide high quality water quality data from key land-uses in the recharge area. This data will enable better constraints and optimisation of future models of water quality, flow and hydrology. Improved models will assist in the management of TWS.

4.4 This work was carried out between May 2024 and Dec 2024. The final recommendation report was received by Council on 18 Dec 2024.

4.5 The peer reviewer has carried two trips to the area one in July for a week for catchment and site familiarisation. He also engaged with the key partners and stake holders (iwi – Ngāti Tama, farming groups re Farmers of the Arthur Marble Aquifer (FAMA), Friends of Golden Bay (FoGB), Tākaka Freshwater Land Advisory (Flag) Group, Save our Springs (SOS) and the Golden Bay Community Board) on the brief and the scope of his work. In a subsequent visit in October, the peer reviewer carried out site visits of the sites he had considered with staff assistance, and met all the groups again where he outlined the broad approach to the monitoring sites and rational for these sites.

5. Analysis and Advice / Tātaritanga me ngā tohutohu

5.1 The peer reviewer has carried out extensive review of technical documents, engaged both with various experts which were involved with the WCO and also parties in the catchment including iwi which were involved with the WCO. Additionally, the caving community in relation to the underground cave systems and springs.

5.2 It is noted that the peer reviewer has visited the catchment and is familiar with the setting and the water dynamics and has considered the recommendations of the environment court for independent peer review considerations.

5.3 Staff advice is that the peer reviewer’s recommendations meet the key goals for future monitoring required from the Environment Court WCO Report.

6. Options / Kōwhiringa

6.1 The options are outlined in the following table:

Option		Advantage	Disadvantage
1.	Adopt and endorse report	Meets the WCO recommendations and its goals. Supports community aspirations	Has direct cost impact and staff time implications for existing and future budgets and sampling programmes.
2.	Do not endorse the report or recommendation	Cost savings for future monitoring.	Does not meet the WCO recommendations and the monitoring goals specified. Lost effort in the work carried out to date.

6.2 Option 1 is recommended.

7. Legal / Ngā ture

7.1 This future monitoring was a recommendation from the WCO report and the WCO itself is a gazetted legal statute.

8. Iwi Engagement / Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori Māori

8.1 Staff engaged with Ngāti Tama on the brief for the independent peer review and peer reviewer prior the start of this work. The peer reviewer has also engaged with Ngāti Tama over the two catchment visits.

9. Significance and Engagement / Hiranga me te Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori Whānui

9.1

	Issue	Level of Significance	Explanation of Assessment
1.	Is there a high level of public interest, or is decision likely to be controversial?	High	It complies the recommendation from the WCO report and there is community interest in this.
2.	Are there impacts on the social, economic, environmental or cultural aspects of well-being of the community in the present or future?	High	The monitoring and results from the testing will inform on the wellbeing of the catchment and the TWS going forward.
3.	Is there a significant impact arising from duration of the effects from the decision?	High	Ongoing cost and information for the Tākaka FMU regional Plan and management and its implementation.
4.	Does the decision relate to a strategic asset? (refer Significance and Engagement Policy for list of strategic assets)	N/A
5.	Does the decision create a substantial change in the level of service provided by Council?	N/A
6.	Does the proposal, activity or decision substantially affect debt, rates or Council finances in any one year or more of the LTP?	N/A
7.	Does the decision involve the sale of a substantial proportion or controlling interest in a CCO or CCTO?	N/A
8.	Does the proposal or decision involve entry into a private sector partnership or contract to carry out the deliver on any Council group of activities?	N/A
9.	Does the proposal or decision involve Council exiting from or entering into a group of activities?	N/A
10.	Does the proposal require particular consideration of the obligations of Te Mana O Te Wai (TMOTW) relating to freshwater or particular consideration of current legislation relating to water supply, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and services?	High	The WCO is current legislation which the Council is required to implement.

10. Communication / Whakawhitiwhiti Kōrero

10.1 As part of the peer review process communication has been occurring between the peer reviewer with the key parties to the WCO and Ngāti Tama. Council has also provided updates on the independent peer review of the WCO monitoring on its website.

11. Financial or Budgetary Implications / Ngā Ritenga ā-Pūtea

11.1 The WCO monitoring (sample testing and materials) cost has been budgeted through the Council current Long-Term Plan (LTP). The monthly field sampling and resultant data management will have implications for the Environmental Science staff and their current workloads and priorities. An extra staffing provision for this was included in the current LTP in year two to allow for increased workload expectations.

12. Risks / Ngā Tūraru

12.1 No significant risk is currently identified.

13. Climate Change Considerations / Whakaaro Whakaaweawe Āhuarangi

13.1 Aspects of these were considered in the WCO hearing process.

14. Alignment with Policy and Strategic Plans / Te Hangai ki ngā aupapa Here me ngā Mahere Rautaki Tūraru

14.1 This work will align with the Tākaka Regional Plan, Freshwater Management Unit (FMU) where provisions of the WCO need to be incorporated.

15. Conclusion / Kupu Whakatepe

15.1 This report of the independent peer review for catchment monitoring arose from the WCO recommendation report. Council has fulfilled its obligation by carrying out this independent peer review.

15.2 Receiving and endorsing and implementing the recommendations will satisfy the requirement for meeting the key goals for the future monitoring specified in the WCO in the ongoing management of the WAMA and the TWS.

16. Next Steps and Timeline / Ngā Mahi Whai Ake

16.1 Council will have to finalise and arrange access with the various landowners where required. Council will need to sort the logistics (lab/field/equipment) around other monitoring programmes. Some work will need to occur to allow bore headwork upgrades to facilitate sampling.

16.2 It is anticipated that the earliest the monthly monitoring work can be implemented is April 2025.

17. Attachments / Tuhinga tāpiri

1.⇩

Independent peer review report on The Review of Monitoring associated with Te Waikoropupū Springs

Strategy and Policy Committee Agenda – 19 February 2025

7.3 Heritage Advisory Group Terms of Reference

Decision Required

Report To:	Strategy and Policy Committee
Meeting Date:	19 February 2025
Report Author:	John Ridd, Group Manager - Service and Strategy
Report Authorisers:	Steve Manners, Acting Chief Executive Officer
Report Number:	RSPC25-02-4

1. Purpose of the Report / Te Take mō te Pūrongo

1.1 The purpose of this report is to agree to a terms of reference to guide the activities of a yet to be formed Heritage Advisory Group.

2. Summary / Te Tuhinga Whakarāpoto

2.1 At the 3 October 2024 Strategy and Policy Committee it was resolved (resolution SPC24-10-5) to form a Heritage Advisory Group which would provide guidance to the Council to inform the Tasman Resource Management Plan (TRMP). This is in particular reference to those heritage assets identified in Schedule 16.13A the TRMP.

2.2 It was further resolved that a terms of reference for that group be brought back to the Committee for ratification.

2.3 This report outlines those proposed terms of reference and requests the Committee approve the recommendation to enable the formation of the group.

3. Recommendation/s / Ngā Tūtohunga

That the Strategy and Policy Committee

1. receives the Heritage Advisory Group Terms of Reference report, RSPC25-02-4; and

2. approves the Heritage Advisory Group terms of reference; and

3. confirms it does not wish to have Elected Member representation on the Heritage Advisory Group.

4. Background / Horopaki

4.1 During the recent Long Term Plan process, the Waimea Historical Society (the Society) submitted on a number of issues relating to the Council’s approach to heritage matters, in particular, buildings and sites of interest currently excluded from the current TRMP.

4.2 To this end the formation of a Heritage Advisory Group was proposed and endorsed by the Strategy and Policy Committee in October 2024.

4.3 The terms of reference (TOR) of this group are important to ensure scope and expectations are clearly laid out.

4.4 The Committee should note that the current national direction being developed around heritage buildings will make it easier to add or subtract items detailed in District Plans or in Tasman District Council’s case the TRMP, potentially requiring no plan change.

4.5 This national direction has not been issued to date and no timeline is clear at the time of writing.

4.6 The Society has reached out across the District and there is interest from seven bodies to be part of that group.

5. Analysis and Advice / Tātaritanga me ngā tohutohu

5.1 The advice being sought from the advisory group is to inform planning documents relating primarily to European settlement of the Tasman District.

5.2 The terms of reference proposed are as follows:

· represent the whole Tasman region on matters of heritage relating primarily to European settlement and historical research. Identification, supported by comprehensive research of heritage sites, buildings and associated historical assets, (which for clarity under the requirements of the Resource Management Act are required to be fixed to the ground) that should be put forward for protection in the Council’s planning documents;

· the advisory group will be formed and remain for the life of election cycles;

· liaise with local iwi representatives as appropriate;

· identification and liaison with Heritage NZ (HNZ) around buildings, sites and other HNZ identified historical assets that may or may not have been registered;

· act as voluntary advisors to the Council on matters of heritage sites, buildings and policy;

· independent of the Council, provide update reports on a six month basis;

· ensure the role of the group is clearly defined to provide advice to the Council on heritage matters and not to act as intermediary between the Council and members of the public; and

· advise on recipients for a small grant fund.

5.3 The intent is to provide the Council with the right level of detail on these matters to allow the Council to make informed decisions.

5.4 It should be noted that not withstanding this advice, the Council will make the ultimate decision regarding heritage issues and may require further information above and beyond this advice.

6. Options / Kōwhiringa

6.1 The options are outlined in the following table:

Option		Advantage	Disadvantage
1.	Adopt the terms of reference	This will provide the advisory group with a clear scope and expectations	There could be a level of expectation that cannot be met by the Council with regards to current legislative constraints. National direction will assist with that.
2.	Do not adopt a terms of reference	There is no real advantage to not having a terms of reference if the group is to be of value to the Council.	A tight focus on heritage with a European settlement focus means the group’s knowledge/research experience can be used effectively on a singular subject matter.

6.2 Option 1 is recommended.

7. Legal / Ngā ture

7.1 The Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) process will need to be followed.

8. Iwi Engagement / Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori Māori

8.1 The terms of reference does outline engagement with iwi partners in research as appropriate.

8.2 It is an expectation that any research carried out takes into account all history pertaining to the subject matter.

9. Significance and Engagement / Hiranga me te Whakawhitiwhiti ā-Hapori Whānui

9.1 As outlined in the following table, we consider this activity overall to be of low significance.

	Issue	Level of Significance	Explanation of Assessment
1.	Is there a high level of public interest, or is decision likely to be controversial?	Low	The public interest will generally pertain to specific property and property owners. There are due processes to follow before any change can occur.
2.	Are there impacts on the social, economic, environmental or cultural aspects of well-being of the community in the present or future?	No
3.	Is there a significant impact arising from duration of the effects from the decision?	No
4.	Does the decision relate to a strategic asset? (refer Significance and Engagement Policy for list of strategic assets)	No
5.	Does the decision create a substantial change in the level of service provided by Council?	No
6.	Does the proposal, activity or decision substantially affect debt, rates or Council finances in any one year or more of the LTP?	No
7.	Does the decision involve the sale of a substantial proportion or controlling interest in a CCO or CCTO?	No
8.	Does the proposal or decision involve entry into a private sector partnership or contract to carry out the deliver on any Council group of activities?	No
9.	Does the proposal or decision involve Council exiting from or entering into a group of activities?	No
10.	Does the proposal require particular consideration of the obligations of Te Mana O Te Wai (TMOTW) relating to freshwater or particular consideration of current legislation relating to water supply, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and services?	No

10. Communication / Whakawhitiwhiti Kōrero

10.1 There has been no communication carried out to date on this matter. The formation of the advisory group will be of minor interest to the wider community. Any recommendations will need to follow the Council’s due process and the Council will lead any communications.

11. Financial or Budgetary Implications / Ngā Ritenga ā-Pūtea

11.1 Low – the group is voluntary and as such receive no meeting remuneration.

12. Risks / Ngā Tūraru

12.1 None foreseen.

13. Climate Change Considerations / Whakaaro Whakaaweawe Āhuarangi

13.1 None foreseen.

14. Alignment with Policy and Strategic Plans / Te Hangai ki ngā aupapa Here me ngā Mahere Rautaki Tūraru

14.1 The Heritage Advisory Group will support and thus align to preparing any Tasman Resource Management Plan (TRMP) plan change.

15. Conclusion / Kupu Whakatepe

15.1 The Strategy and Policy Committee has, at a previous meeting, agreed to the formation of a Heritage Advisory Group.

15.2 The focus of the advisory group is district European heritage buildings, sites and associated assets.

15.3 A clear terms of reference will focus the group’s work and provide support to staff when reviewing this section of the TRMP. It will also set clear expectations as to the role of the group.

16. Next Steps and Timeline / Ngā Mahi Whai Ake

16.1 The next steps, if the Committee agrees, is to form the group and create a meeting schedule.

16.2 Staff suggest creating an independent advisory board and do not recommend any elected member representation.

16.3 The Committee may disagree and may wish to have elected member representation in the group.

17. Attachments / Tuhinga tāpiri

Nil

Strategy and Policy Committee Agenda – 19 February 2025

7.4 Waimea Inlet Action Plan Annual Progress Report

Information Only - No Decision Required

Report To:	Strategy and Policy Committee
Meeting Date:	19 February 2025
Report Author:	Anna Gerraty, Senior Community Policy Advisor; Cat Budai, Community Policy Advisor
Report Authorisers:	Dwayne Fletcher, Strategic Policy Manager; John Ridd, Group Manager - Service and Strategy
Report Number:	RSPC25-02-5

1. Purpose of the Report / Te Take mō te Pūrongo

1.1 This report informs the Council of progress towards implementing the Waimea Inlet Action Plan during the 2024 calendar year.

2. Recommendation/s / Ngā Tūtohunga

That the Strategy and Policy Committee

1. receives the Waimea Inlet Action Plan Annual Progress Report, RSPC25-02-5.

3. Summary / Te Tuhinga Whakarāpoto

3.1 In August 2023 (RSPC23-08-2), the Committee agreed that the Council would lead or assist with specific actions/targets listed in the updated ‘Waimea Inlet Action Plan 2023-2026’ (Action Plan). The Action Plan is designed to implement the Waimea Inlet Management Strategy (Strategy), to which the Council is a signatory. The Strategy and Action Plan is a non-statutory document aimed at maintaining and improving the health of the Waimea Inlet.

3.2 The Council is a member of the Waimea Inlet Coordination Group (the Group) that coordinates the review, implementation and monitoring of the Strategy and Action Plan.

3.3 In November each year, the Group produces an annual report, summarising progress made in implementing the Action Plan. The progress report for the 2024 calendar year is appended as Attachment 1.

3.4 In 2024, good progress was made in implementing the Action Plan. Highlights include salt marsh restoration at Rough Island, the continued enhancement of marsh bird habitat at Waimea River Delta and banded rail and fernbird surveys indicating population increases.

4. Background / Horopaki

4.1 The Waimea Inlet is the largest semi-enclosed inlet in the South Island and has international and national importance as a site for migratory birds. The Inlet lies within both Tasman and Nelson regions.

4.2 The initial Strategy was developed in 2010 to coordinate a cross-regional approach to the care of the Inlet. The Council is a signatory to the Strategy, along with Nelson City Council (NCC), the Department of Conservation (DOC), Fish & Game, and Te Tauihu iwi. The Action Plan is designed to implement the Strategy.

4.3 The Group was formed in 2017 to “identify, prioritise, and coordinate the actions needed to achieve implementation of the Strategy and collate these into a proposed Action Plan.” Cr Ellis is appointed as Council’s elected member representative on the Group, with Cr Kininmonth as an alternate. Staff across different departments of the Council actively participate in the work of the Group.

4.4 Current members of the Group also include representatives from NCC (Cr Sanson and staff), DOC, Waimea Inlet Forum (WIF), Tasman Environmental Trust (TET), Tasman Bay Guardians, Te Ātiawa, Ngāti Tama, Ngāti Rārua, Ngāti Kōata, Ngāti Toa, Ngāti Kuia and Ngāti Apa.

4.5 Members of the Group commit to specific actions for their organisation. All targets and actions have a lead organisation responsible for progressing the actions.

4.6 All eight Te Tau Ihu iwi have an open invitation to become signatories to the Strategy, to appoint representatives to the Group and to participate in the development, implementation, review and monitoring of the Action Plan. They have been kept informed of progress throughout the Action Plan’s development and implementation. Seven iwi have now engaged in the work of the Group, but Rangitāne has not had the time/capacity to engage at this stage.

4.7 The Group meets quarterly, with administrative support provided by Tasman District Council staff. The Council works collaboratively with the Group to implement the Action Plan and give effect to the Strategy.

4.8 The initial Action Plan was finalised at the end of 2018. A review of the Strategy and Action Plan (including public consultation on a draft version), led by an external consultant, was completed in June 2023. The Committee adopted the revised ‘Waimea Inlet Management Strategy 2050 and Action Plan 2023 to 2026’ in August 2023.

4.9 The intention is that all Group members work together to achieve the Action Plan’s targets. When unbudgeted funding is required, external funding will be sought. The Strategy and Action Plan is an ‘investment ready’ document that external (i.e. non-Council) funders can refer to when considering funding applications.

4.10 Collectively the Group has secured over $3 million of government funding to assist with implementation of the Action Plan. The MfE funding of $1.6 million secured in 2020, for projects that Tasman District Council is delivering, will end midway through 2025. This will impact our ability to deliver upon the Action Plan going forward, with the rate of progress anticipated to slow down in future.

5. Key Highlights

5.1 An analysis of progress made on action points during the 2024 calendar year shows that 13 are complete/on track, 20 are in progress and 11 are delayed.

5.2 The plan has an action to provide ongoing support for Project Moturoa. This project has been superseded, with NMIT weaving the Te Ao Māori strands into their Kaitiaki Whenua Trainee Ranger programme instead. Two planting days with these students have taken place, focusing on restoring a natural coastal forest sequence and coast care plantings.

5.3 A comprehensive list of threatened and locally significant species and their requirements has been prepared and mapped for Tasman’s coastal environment.

5.4 Ngāti Tama has partnered with Cawthron to undertake seagrass restoration research and other work in the Inlet. NCC will be contributing funding to the 2024-2025 components of the ‘Restore the Meadows’ campaign, focused on seedling growth trials.

5.5 Tasman Environment Trust has undertaken further fernbird and banded rail surveys to monitor the impact of their Battle for the Banded Rail trapping programme. Their trap network has expanded further during the past year. The 2024 survey shows an increase in evidence of banded rail in previously sited areas and in two new areas. The fernbird survey has also shown an increase in population.

Battle for the banded rail project

5.6 Data from the McArthur et al report has informed the Council’s Dog Bylaw review to encourage appropriate use of the Inlet edge and reserves by dog walkers. The now adopted bylaw prohibits dogs from many locations along the western edge of Waimea Inlet and continues to prohibit dogs on Moturoa/Rabbit Island.

5.7 The target to enhance three hectares of marsh bird habitat in the Waimea River Delta by 30 June 2025 as part of the Waimea Inlet Enhancement Project is on track and has already been exceeded, with 3.5 hectares enhanced since early 2022. Two phases of earthworks (2022 and 2023) have created open water areas and re-wet portions of the site, while over 10,000 native plants have been planted and targeted weed control carried out. Monitoring for marsh birds began in September 2024.

Waimea Delta wetland enhancement project

5.8 Surveys and control of pest plants such as Spartina continue to be undertaken by both DOC and Project De-Vine (through the Protecting Flora Jobs for Nature project, overseen by the Council). Control of species such as Jellybean Ice Plant, Tamarisk and other estuarine pest plants is also well underway across the Inlet. A report by Salt Ecology has assessed the salt marsh restoration opportunities. This is being worked through where budget and landowner interest is available.

5.9 The target for 10% of urban and industrial stormwater and effluent discharges to meet ANZECC (2000) ISQG low sediment toxicity criteria within 50m of discharge outfalls by 2050 is progressing. An estuary impact study was conducted by Tasman District Council at stormwater outfalls in Motueka and Māpua, with results showing compliance with guidelines in Māpua, except for cadmium (Cd) and nickel (Ni), likely due to local geology. Ongoing monitoring in Richmond includes dry and wet weather conditions, alongside industrial outfalls. Ten litter traps have been installed in Richmond CBD, and a Jellyfish filter is treating runoff from the Poutama industrial area. Stormwater Catchment Management Plans (CMPs) for Brightwater/Wakefield and Māpua are being drafted.

5.10 Sediment quality monitoring by NCC in 2022 showed lead (Pb) exceeding guidelines at three of 23 sites and zinc at two of 23 sites, though overall metal contaminants are declining. Wastewater and stormwater programmes are addressing leaks and infiltration. A July 2023 sediment survey at Waimea Inlet discharge outlets found elevated mud content at nine sites but low heavy metal concentrations overall, except for naturally occurring nickel at multiple sites.

5.11 Salt marsh restoration is ongoing at several sites, including the Rough Island Embayment, with further planting of salt marsh species to be undertaken at Research Orchard Road and Estuary Place.

A aerial view of a landscape

Description automatically generated

Rough Island Embayment pre- and post-culvert enlargement

5.12 NCC is conducting six-monthly photopoint monitoring of the chenier ridge planting plots and planting new plots for salt marsh restoration.

Delays and Challenges

5.13 NCC completed its State of the Environment Report and macroinvertebrate community index report for stream ecosystem health. This showed that the four streams monitored at the coast are all degraded, impacted by deposited fine sediment and loss of habitat from flooding and removal of flood debris, woody debris and vegetation.

5.14 No progress has been made on preparing a unified animal pest control plan as per action 2.2.3. Specific pests are controlled within the Regional Pest Management Plan (RPMP) Waimea Inlet site-led programme where they meet the cost-benefit analysis for inclusion.

5.15 Progress toward ensuring contaminant loads in the eight monitored waterways discharging to the Inlet remain within safe levels by 1 January 2025 is partly reliant on the Freshwater Farm Plan Regulations, which have been paused for review by central government. The outcome of the review is expected by mid-2025, creating uncertainty around when the regulations will apply locally. Meanwhile, Landcare Trust has generated strong interest among landowners for establishing a Waimea Catchment group, with discussions underway on forming a broader collective to represent potential sub-catchment groups.

6. Conclusion

6.1 The majority of actions are either in progress, on track or complete, with steady progress towards targets being achieved throughout the year.

6.2 Attachment 1 will be published online at Waimea Inlet Management Strategy and Action Plan | Tasman District Council alongside progress reports from previous years.

7. Attachments / Tuhinga tāpiri

1.⇩

2024 Annual report on progress implementing Waimea Inlet Action Plan

Strategy and Policy Committee Agenda – 19 February 2025

7.5 Strategic Policy and Environmental Policy Activity Report

Information Only - No Decision Required

Report To:	Strategy and Policy Committee
Meeting Date:	19 February 2025
Report Author:	Barry Johnson, Environmental Policy Manager; Dwayne Fletcher, Strategic Policy Manager
Report Authorisers:	John Ridd, Group Manager - Service and Strategy
Report Number:	RSPC25-02-6

1. Summary / Te Tuhinga Whakarāpoto

1.1 This report provides the Committee with an update on some of the key highlights of the Service and Strategy Group’s Strategic Policy and Environmental Policy work.

2. Recommendation/s / Ngā Tūtohunga

That the Strategy and Policy Committee

1. receives the Strategic Policy and Environmental Policy Activity Report, RSPC25-02-6.

3. Strategic Policy Update – Dwayne Fletcher

Review of Water Supply Rates

3.1 In the Long Term Plan 2024-2034 (LTP) consultation document the rating for rural water schemes was noted as an upcoming issue. We explained that the increasing costs for these schemes to meet regulatory standards were driving up current and future rates levels and the likelihood that this would cause some users to leave the schemes, increasing rates further to those remaining. We indicated that we would undertake further work on this issue and planned to consult on options during the 2024/2025 year.

3.2 Staff have been working to consider options to address this issue and workshops took place in July and October 2024 to informally seek elected members’ views.

3.3 Since the LTP was adopted, there has been increased workload for staff involved in this work, particularly those in the Finance department. We are working on a particularly difficult Annual Plan for 2025/2026, working through the financial implications of the Local Water Done Well entity options and plan to consult on entity options in April 2025, and will potentially introduce a new rate in the 2025/2026 year.

3.4 Therefore staff consider that it will not now be possible to have advanced the water rates review work to the consultation stage in the 2024/2025 year.

3.5 We consider that this water rates review work should continue to be progressed, so that the water rates system is in good shape when whatever Local Waters Done Well entity is formed takes on the management of the three waters.

3.6 Staff are considering a revised timeline for the water rates review work. Taking into account the local body election in October 2025 staff advise that we plan for consultation on the water rates review in March/April 2026. This would still allow the outcomes of the review to be implemented from 1 July 2026.

Key Projects and Activities

3.7 The following tables contain an update of the key projects and activities that the Strategic Policy Team either manages or is involved in.

Community Policy
Project	Description	Status	Comments
Corporate Planning
Annual Plan 2025/2026	Preparation of the Council’s Annual Plan for the 2025/2026 year.	On track	TCD: 30 June 2025 Direction was provided to staff at a workshop on 11 December 2024. Staff are now preparing material to deliver on this direction and support a series of workshops with Councillors in late February/early March 2025.
Development Contributions Policy Review	To review specific operational aspects of the Policy regarding development contributions.	On track	TCD: 30 June 2025 A Council workshop is scheduled for 27 February 2024 to confirm the proposed amendments. Formal consultation is planned for March/April 2025.
Schedule of Fees and Charges 2025/2026	Annual review of the fees and charges set by Council – in parallel with the Annual Plan 2025/2026 process.	On track	TCD: 26 June 2025 The draft schedule has been circulated to relevant staff for review and preparation. This will be presented in a Council workshop in late February.
Review of Water Supply Rates	Review the way in which we rate for water supply in the context of increasing costs impacting the affordability of some water schemes.	On track	TCD: To be determined Workshops were held on 24 July 2024 and on 23 October which considered the range of options, a broad process and some principles. Staff have been working on developing a revised water rating system for elected member consideration. As noted in paragraphs 3.1-3.6 of this report it is likely that consultation on a new water rates system will now take place in the first quarter of 2026.
Reserves and community facilities
Classification of existing reserves in Richmond and Lakes-Murchison Wards	Project to classify existing reserves in Richmond and Lakes-Murchison Wards (this step is required before Council can publicly notify draft RMPs for both Wards) and one reserve in Moutere-Waimea Ward	On track	TCD: February 2025 Proposals to classify existing reserves were publicly notified on 14 October 2024. Submissions closed on 18 November 2024. Hearings and deliberations were held on 10 December 2024. A report was presented to the Council on 13 February 2025, outlining Hearing Panel recommendations for final reserve classifications. The final step in the process is to submit a notice to be published in the NZ Gazette, listing all reserve classifications.
Review of Richmond and Lakes-Murchison Wards reserve management plans (RMP)	Project to review the two existing RMPs.	On track	TCD: September-2025 Initial ‘seeking ideas’ feedback round closed 28 March 2024. The revised timeline and some of the feedback received can be viewed on the maps on the Shape Tasman project page. Analysis of feedback is complete and development of draft RMP text is well underway. We are currently engaging with iwi on initial draft text. The draft Lakes-Murchison Ward RMP and draft RMP section on Baigents Bush Scenic Reserve, Pigeon Valley will be presented to the 3 April Strategy & Policy Committee meeting with a request that both documents be publicly notified. The draft Richmond Ward RMP will be presented to the Committee in May 2025, with a request that draft RMP be publicly notified.
Community Occupancy Policy	Development of a new policy to guide operational decision-making around entering into and reviewing leases of Council owned land	On track	TCD: June 2025 Following the workshop with Councillors in November 2024, the policy and accompanying guidelines are in the final stages of drafting, with legal review due to commence shortly. The policy will be presented to the full Council to consider for consultation at its meeting on 20 March 2025.
Climate change and environmental
Tasman Climate Response Strategy and Action Plan (2023-2035)	The Tasman Climate Response and Resilience Strategy and Action Plan 2024-2035 outlines investments and actions for climate mitigation and adaptation over the next 10 years.	On track	Quarterly Progress Report: Staff provide regular updates on progress implementing the Strategy and Action Plan in the ‘Climate Change Update’ reports to alternate Strategy and Policy Committee meetings. The next update is due on 3 April 2025.
Organisational greenhouse gas inventory	Annual monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions from Council operations	On track	Target completion date: April 2025  Work to prepare the 2023/24 report is underway. The completed report is due to be audited in February 2025.
Community greenhouse gas inventory	Bi-annual monitoring of greenhouse gas emissions for the Tasman region	On track	TCD: April 2026 Staff are providing data to a consultant, who will provide dashboard information on regional greenhouse gas emissions.
Nelson-Tasman Climate Change Risk Assessment and Explorer (NTCCRA) project	The regional assessment identifies future climate hazards and impacts, informing climate action priorities and a foundation for adaptation planning for resilience.	Delayed Previous TCD October 2024	New TCD: June 2025 The Tasman District Council and Nelson City Council staff are nearing completion of the regional climate change risk assessment and geospatial tool. While delays occurred due to user-related issues, the project is now for internal review. The project remains on budget.
Bylaws
Public Places Bylaw	Currently no bylaw in force. Review needed for bylaw to regulate activities, such as hawking, busking, and food vendors in public places. If needed, make new bylaw.	Complete	TCD: Fourth quarter 2024 The bylaw was adopted at the Council meeting on 28 November.
Dog Control Bylaw	Cyclic review of Dog Control Bylaw	Complete	TCD: Fourth quarter 2024 The bylaw was adopted at the Council meeting on 11 December.
Cat Bylaw	Currently no bylaw in place. If Council supports, make a new bylaw.	Complete	TCD: Fourth quarter 2024 The bylaw was adopted at the Council meeting on 28 November.
Public Water Supply Bylaw	Review to align with changes to Government legislation and improve current protection levels of safety and health, environment and Council water infrastructure.	Complete	TCD: Fourth quarter 2024 The bylaw was adopted at the Council meeting on 28 November.
Control of Alcohol in Public Places Bylaw	Cyclic review	New	TCD: Third Quarter 2025 Early engagement scheduled for February – early March 2025. Results and a first draft will be shared with Councillors at a workshop on 10 April 2025.
Freedom Camping Bylaw	Prior bylaw revoked. If Council supports, make a new bylaw.	New	TCD: Third Quarter 2025 Staff supporting the Regulatory Services team. This project will be introduced to Councillors at the workshop on 10April 2025.
Introductory Bylaw	Revocation and necessary minor amendments to other bylaws	New	TCD: First Quarter 2025 Report to seek approval for revocation of the bylaw along with other minor amendments is scheduled for a Council meeting on 13 February 2025. Website updates will follow.
Speed Limits Bylaw	Revocation	New	TCD: First Quarter 2025 Report to seek approval for revocation of the bylaw is scheduled for a Council meeting on 13 February 2025. This bylaw has been superseded by the Speed Management Plan.

Infrastructure Planning and Policy
Project		Description	Status		Comments
General
Motueka West Development – Joint agreements (IAF) with Kāinga Ora Housing and Communities and Wakatū Inc.	3-Waters and roading infrastructure to support the first phase of the housing development by Wakatū in Motueka West			Delayed Previous TCD Oct 2024	TCD: April 2025 The construction of the wastewater and stormwater pipelines are complete. Wastewater pumpstation is due for tender pending Wakatū confirmation of location. Manoy Street roundabout is on hold pending consent approval. The Wakatū resource consent application is on hold pending review of the traffic impact on Whakarewa/High Street intersection and confirmation of non-vesting of roadways. Memo to ELT meeting 5 November confirmed preferred position on road funding gap. Plan Change 80 hearing held on Friday 8 November.
Local Water Done Well	Supporting development of the Water Services Delivery Plan, led by Community Infrastructure			On track	TCD June 2025 Drafting of Indicative Business Case underway. Work on Water Services delivery plan starting. Submissions made on new levies. Submission due to be submitted on Bill 3. Consultation required being worked through
TRMP Changes	Roading and three waters report to address servicing for the identified components of PC81 and PC80.			On track	TCD: Hearing for PC 80 - Q4 2024 Hearing for PC 81 – Q1 2026 Initial report completed. Revised report required on the status of infrastructure to service PC81 & PC80. May require further investigations on options to service the proposed zoning changes
FDS Implementation – change management framework to support infrastructure planning	To support the implementation of FDS by way of having a change management process and infrastructure planning framework (in conjunction with the PMO)			On track	TCD Ongoing programme of work Working on basis of information and ways of holding this information for all to use. Initial scoping and way forward completed December 2024. Request for GIS resource underway, and scoping of GIS work also underway. Initiative started on capturing capacity of key infrastructure to represent programme of works and any gaps in information.
Transport
Joint Speed Management Plan	Undertake a review of speeds across Nelson and Tasman, culminating in a Joint Speed Management Plan to submit to Waka Kotahi. The new speed limits can be introduced over time once approved.			On track	TCD: Approval of first tranche of changes - Q1 2025 Approval of second tranche of changes – Q3 2025 Reconsulting on high-risk roads, roads around rural schools and McShanes. Consultation closes on 2 March. For all other SMP roads, consultation is planned for April onwards
Transportation Policies and Procedures Manual	Update of the transportation policies and procedures manual			On track	TCD: December 2025 Work is continuing with this review. A workshop is scheduled in March 2025.
EBus Review	EBus services are reviewed after one year. Phase one: provide data to NZTA Phase two: review future improvements			On track	TCD: March 2025 Phase one is complete with data being sent to NZTA and confirmation of ongoing funding for existing services provided. Phase two: Workshop to Regional Transport Committee on 10 March.
Stormwater & Rivers
Richmond South Stormwater Programme	Development of a stormwater management programme for existing and future development areas in Richmond South, including cross-section designs for planned drain upgrades. Stormwater Management Plan will feed into a future structure plan for the area scheduled to commence later this year.			On track	TCD: Ongoing programme of work The next report for the Strategy and Policy Committee is to confirm the design of the channel for works uphill of SH6. This report has been delayed by engineering technical issues. These include the need to consider the impact of development proposals beyond the current residential zoned land and the latest stormwater model outputs. Several property purchases are in progress. The Stormwater Structure Plan consultant has been engaged.
Māpua, Ruby Bay, and Coastal Tasman Catchment Management Plan (CMP) Now incorporated into the Māpua Master Plan	A stormwater model for Māpua, Ruby Bay, and Coastal Tasman to identify locations that are at risk of stormwater flooding in 1% and 10% AEP events was prepared in 2022, with the intention of completing the Catchment Management Plan as required under the Council’s stormwater discharge consent.			On track	TCD: Q2 2025 The draft CMP is included as an annex to the draft Masterplan. Following consultation, a final plan will be proposed.
Brightwater and Wakefield Catchment Management Plan	Development of a stormwater catchment management plan for the Brightwater and Wakefield Urban Drainage Areas, as required by Tasman District Council’s stormwater discharge consent.			On track	TCD: Q2 2025 The remaining issue delaying the draft CMP is completion of a Cultural Impact Assessment.
Richmond Central Stormwater Business Case	Business case to assess the management of stormwater in the Richmond CBD catchment			On track	TCD: Q4 2025 The various options for cost-effective reductions in flood hazard to central Richmond are still being considered but are now in line for further modelling in 2025 behind the Richmond South investigations as noted above. Integration with design for FDS growth areas under PC81/Richmond on the Rise is proposed to maximise return on investment.
District-wide Stormwater Flood Modelling	Stormwater modelling covering the entire District at a high level to inform future CMP for smaller Urban Drainage Area, and to assist with rural stormwater management.			On track	TCD: Q4 2025 This modelling sits in the programme behind Richmond south and Richmond central. The most cost-effective method will vary across the District considering if an existing river model (eg Takaka), or partial urban model (eg Murchison, Pohara) or nothing exists (eg Patons Rock). Potential for the programme to be delayed by cost-cutting drivers.
Water and Wastewater
Wastewater modelling	Modelling of Waimea Wastewater network Network monitoring, data analysis and model outputs will inform the timing of specific capital works projects that are planned as part of the Waimea Wastewater Network Strategy.			Complete	New TCD: Q1 2025 Staff have engaged consultants to undertake a four-staged modelling project for the Waimea wastewater trunk main. Consultants recommended the collection of additional flow data before building and calibrating the model. This has been done and calibration of the model is complete. The TCD has been previously extended due to a lack of storm events and associated flows to help staff test any model against.
Te Tai o Aorere Draft Regional Wastewater Philosophy	An initiative between the Council, NRSBU and potentially iwi to develop 50-to-100-year vision for iwi and community aspirations for future wastewater networks. The plan will identify values, objectives, and outcomes. In the absence of the three waters direction, this work has now evolved into a component of the Motueka wastewater solutions project. This work will form the basis of understanding for a relationship between iwi and Council, initially to support the Motueka and Tākakā wastewater treatment plant projects for the Council.			Complete	The developed outcomes and objectives of the RWWP will continue to support and inform the Motueka and other wastewater treatment solutions projects as they progress. This is the outcome of initial discussion between the Council’s CEO and iwi CE’s.
Motueka Wastewater Solutions Project (to replace the current Motueka WWTP) In support of Programme Delivery	The Motueka Wastewater Reference Group has been restarted. The Motueka WW solutions project has started and the first-year pre-project planning and investigation phase for has commenced. (Alternative solution for the current site of the WWTP prior to the current consent expiry in 2035.)			On track	Phase 1 of the 10yr Motueka WWTP solution project has commenced 1 July 2024 - Year 1 - Preplanning Goal 1 - Reactivation of the Motueka WW Reference group (action completed) commenced with a hui on 10 July 2024. The reference group is now actively moving forward with regular hui with relevant Council staff. First tasks for the group will be developing criteria to remove rahui (involves ESR and shellfish testing. External funding sources are being explored with the integrated catchment team) and developing cultural monitoring skills to ensure current consent conditions for WWTP discharge can be met. Estimated completion end of year 2025. Goal 2 - completion of the Tasman relationship agreement Council, ELT and iwi CE - Jan/Feb 2025. An alternative process has been proposed in the initial CE discussions that will uphold the five principles of the ‘Together Te Tau Ihu Partnership’ alongside using the outcomes and objectives of the RWWP work to inform the wastewater project going forward. Iwi representation for wastewater was agreed and is still work in progress to be confirmed by all CE’s. Goal 3 - lessons learned WCD December 2024. Work is with the CEO and Mayor in draft format for comments. Draft completed. Goal 4 - Project Board (iwi inclusive) and sponsor set up before end of March. Goal 5 - Cambridge WWTP process/site visit before June 2025.
Inflow and infiltration management plan	Drafting plan to help reduce inflow and infiltration into wastewater network within available budget			On track	TCD: July 2025 Currently in early initiation phase, working with operations staff to form the basis for the overall plan. Final plan will go to the Infrastructure Group Manager for approval.
Waimea trunk water and wastewater	Working with Project Delivery to draft working brief in conjunction with hydraulic modelling work			On track	TCD: Phase 1 Feasibility July 2025 Work has commenced to define the first phase of the new water and wastewater trunk main network linking Wakefield, Brightwater and Richmond. Construction of water and wastewater mains between Wakefield and Brightwater will be combined into a joint contract.
Wai-iti Dam augmentation design and consent application	Writing a resource consent application for the water intake and pipeline			Delayed	TCD: Initial application by March 2025 Awaiting final pieces of information to complete and landowner agreements. 95% complete. Updates to TCD will be made once consent is submitted.
Waste Management and Minimisation
Joint Waste Minimisation and Management Plan (Waste Plan)	Review the Nelson Tasman Waste Minimisation and Management Plan (Waste Plan), as required under the Waste Minimisation Act 2008.			On track	TCD: July 2025 Working Party meetings were held in April, June, September and October 2024. At the 29 October meeting, the Working Party considered the final draft of the plan and have recommended it for consultation. The draft plan for consultation was considered by Council on 11 December and Nelson City Council on 5 December. Public consultation will run from 1 February to 7 March 2025. We expect that the final plan will be adopted in July 2025.
Coastal
Update of Coastal Protection Policy	Update of Overarching Coastal Protection Policy with linkages to Proposed Reserves and Roads (other land) policies			On track	TCD: Q4 2025 A new policy has been drafted for inclusion in the Transportation Procedures and Policy Manual update currently in preparation and due for completion in Q4 2025.

4. Environmental Policy Update – Barry Johnson

4.1 The Environmental Policy team is currently managing nine significant projects (plus a host of smaller ones) that will all result in changes to the current Tasman Regional Policy Statement, the Tasman Resource Management Plan (TRMP) or form part of the replacement plan (Tasman Environment Plan) when that is restarted. The projects include eight plan changes at various stages and a new Master Plan project:

4.1.1 PC 76 Wakefield

4.1.2 PC 79 Deferred Zoning

4.1.3 PC 80 Motueka West

4.1.4 PC 81 Urban Growth

4.1.5 PC 82 Outstanding Natural Landscapes and Features

4.1.6 PC 83 Coastal Environment and Natural Character

4.1.7 PC 84 Land and Freshwater

4.1.8 PC 85 Natural Hazards

4.1.9 Motueka Master Plan.

4.2 The plan changes and a number of other areas of work are covered off in the sections below under the workstream headings.

Urban Growth

Future Development Strategy

4.3 The Future Development Strategy (FDS) Implementation Plan 2024 was adopted alongside the FDS monitoring report 2024 by the Joint Nelson Tasman Committee on 19 November 2024. The adopted implementation plan replaces the version adopted in 2023. The National Policy Statement for Urban Development (NPS UD) requires the Council to update the FDS implementation plan annually.

4.4 The implementation plan outlines how the FDS will be implemented, by whom and timeframes for the actions identified in the plan. Actions have been informed by meetings held with Council staff and external key stakeholders, including:

· Ministry of Education

· Ministry of Housing and Urban Development

· Kāinga Ora – Homes and Communities

· Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora – Nelson Marlborough

· Nelson Bays Primary Health

· New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi

· Transpower New Zealand

· Network Tasman Limited

· Nelson Electricity Limited

· Nelson Regional Development Agency

· Nelson Regional Sewerage Business Unit.

4.5 The implementation plan also provides the latest indicative staging of the FDS sites, detailing which sites are likely to be rezoned and serviced in the medium term (2024 to 2034) or long term (2035 to 2054). A key component of the plan is the zoning of enough land to provide for the next 10 years of urban growth in Tasman through Plan Change 81.

Plan Change 76 Wakefield

4.6 The purpose of PC76 is to provide additional land for residential housing and encourage both intensification and a variety of densities within a parcel of greenfield land in Wakefield.

4.7 The decision on PC76 was publicly notified on 9 September. One appeal was lodged with the Environment Court. Initial attempts to resolve the appeal were not successful so Counsel for Tasman District Council has indicated to the court it wishes to enter formal mediation with the appellant to resolve the appeal points without the need for a court hearing.

4.8 The court is yet to set a date for mediation and staff will keep the Council informed of any developments.

Plan Change 79 Deferred Zones

4.9 The purpose of PC79 is to provide a robust method to enable deferred land to be released for development when required. It will also rezone some deferred land for development that previously was identified for housing and business uses.

4.10 PC79 was publicly notified on 1 November 2024 following consultation with landowners, affected neighbours and statutory stakeholders on the draft plan change.

4.11 The submission period closed on 13 December and 23 submissions have been received. The call for further submissions alongside a summary of submissions was notified on 4 February and closed on 18 February.

4.12 The next steps are for staff to work through submissions to determine whether any submission points can be resolved informally and to start preparing for a hearing. The hearing date has been tentatively set down for 23 and 24 June.

Plan Change 80 Motueka West

4.13 The purpose and objective of PC80 is to rezone land in Motueka West from Rural 1 deferred Residential to Residential – Compact Density, and to enable medium-density housing. The FDS forecast that population growth in Motueka cannot be met without releasing additional land for urban development. This proposed plan change addresses that need with smaller lot sizes and smaller dwellings within the plan change area.

4.14 PC80 was publicly notified on 15 December 2023. Submissions and cross submissions closed on 19 April 2024. Submissions raised a number of issues that required commissioning further analysis and information. A hearing for PC80 was held on 8 November 2024. The hearing panel members were Gary Rae – independent commissioner as chair alongside Councillors Maling and Maru. The adoption of the hearing panel’s report and recommendations are subject to a separate paper to this Committee.

Plan Change 81 Urban Growth

4.15 PC81 is a significant project to rezone enough land to provide for the next 10 years of urban growth in Tasman and implements the first 10 years of growth as set out in the FDS. It involves changes to the Tasman Regional Policy Statement (TRPS) and TRMP. There are a number of aspects to the plan change set out below.

Changes to the Regional Policy Statement

4.16 Changes to the TRPS to give high level direction towards prioritising a suitable supply and variety of homes in the right locations, and to provide for sufficient business opportunities.

Greenfield rezoning

4.17 The FDS assumes that 44% of future growth will be accommodated through greenfield expansion. The intention is to rezone the greenfield FDS sites that are needed within the next 10 years. These zones include:

4.17.1 Medium Density Residential Zone - Greenfield locations where higher density is appropriate (e.g. Wakefield sites, Motueka site);

4.17.2 Residential Zone - Greenfield locations where standard density is appropriate (Takaka, Tapawera, Brightwater);

4.17.3 Rural Residential Zone - Unserviced rural areas (St Arnaud, Rangihaeata, Brightwater, Richmond); and

4.17.4 Light Industrial Zone and Mixed Business Zone (Takaka, Richmond).

Introducing a new Medium Density Residential Zone

4.18 This will create a new zone in the TRMP that enables and requires medium density housing. This will be developed to support intensification of Richmond, Brightwater and Wakefield.

4.19 The new zone will also enable higher density development in greenfield areas such as Motueka and Wakefield.

Other zone changes

4.20 Changes to commercial zones in Richmond and Murchison.

Workers’ accommodation

4.21 Update the rules for workers’ accommodation to make them more flexible and more permissive.

Urban centres’ hierarchy

4.22 Provide a hierarchy of Richmond centres that are consistent with Nelson and allow our town planning decision making to be more effective.

Progress and next steps

4.23 Discussions with affected landowners have occurred. This was followed by an information campaign with the wider community over November/December 2024. The sites being recommended for rezoning were identified through the FDS so landowners were already aware their land is earmarked for development. Feedback from this process was generally supportive.

4.24 The draft plan change is currently being finalised and this will be workshopped with Council ahead of its public release and call for feedback in late March. Current plans are for public notification later in 2025.

PC 82 & 83 Outstanding Natural Landscapes and Features, and Coastal Environments and Natural Character

4.25 A plan change to identify Tasman’s Outstanding Natural Landscapes and Features, alongside a second plan change that will redefine Tasman’s Coastal Environment line and identify areas of coastal natural character, are progressing. The plan changes are at the point where the plan provisions have been drafted and staff are now seeking feedback from Department of Conservation (DOC) on the draft provisions. Staff have contacted DOC and are in the process of arranging a meeting, however recent staff changes at DOC are causing a delay while an appropriate replacement staff member is found.

4.26 Staff are also continuing to work with iwi to gain the necessary input to complete the plan changes.

4.27 The next steps for the plan changes once work with DOC and iwi is completed will be to workshop the draft plan changes with the Council. Following that, the draft plan change will be made public so affected landowners, and any interested people can provide informal feedback. This will be followed by a decision on public notification later in 2025.

Plan Change 84 Land and Freshwater Plan Change

4.28 PC84 involves changes to the TRPS and TRMP to address land and freshwater issues in Tasman under the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2020 (NPS-FM), including to assist in achieving the purposes of Te Waikoropupū Water Conservation Order.

4.29 The Strategy and Policy Committee received a report at its 28 May 2024 meeting that provided a comprehensive update on this plan change. In summary the key freshwater workstreams relating to the plan change that were progressed through 2024 include:

4.29.1 Draft Land and Freshwater Plan Change (LFPC) development;

4.29.2 Te Puna Kōrero ki Te Tauihu (TPK) collaborative group (councils and iwi);

4.29.3 science advice and supporting information development;

4.29.4 review of protections for the Outstanding Values of Te Waikoropupū and aquifer listed in the water conservation order;

4.29.5 Waimea Plains Nitrate Project (in conjunction with Horticulture NZ and growers);

4.29.6 iwi and stakeholder engagement on draft plan approach options; and

4.29.7 scoping public engagement process on the draft LFPC.

4.30 Of note is the completion of the work of Te Puna Kōrero ki Te Tauihu (TPK) collaborative group. This working group of eight Te Tauihu iwi, Ngati Wae Wae, and the three councils has worked to identify the key issues and outcomes for freshwater for iwi. It has been a successful collaboration, and the next steps are for Tasman to work with iwi on Tasman specific issues to inform the LFPC.

4.31 A big challenge to this project is ongoing uncertainty from Wellington regarding the content and timing of changes to the NPS-FM that the Government has signalled. Changes to the Resource Management Act (RMA) late last year have effectively prevented councils from notifying a freshwater plan change until the current NPS-FM has been replaced. Government has committed to replacing the current National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management (NPS) by 2026. However, timing of the release of consultation material on the NPS-FM changes appears to be slipping. In mid-2024 ministers indicated the proposed changes would be released in late 2024. This date was then revised to early 2025 and more recently indications are that the release could be pushed out further and even possibly bundled into the RMA replacement package. The Prime Minister in his recent state of the nation speech said that he expected to introduce legislation to replace the RMA “this year”. This represents a change from previous statements from ministers that legislation would be introduced mid-2025 and passed into law by the end of 2025. Furthermore, the recently released Coalition Government’s Q1 Action Plan for New Zealand includes the following related actions:

· “Take Cabinet decisions on the major legislative architecture for the Government’s replacement legislation for the Resource Management Act “

· “Take Cabinet decisions on new national direction for freshwater and pragmatic rules for on-farm water storage and vegetable growing.”

· “Take Cabinet decisions on system design for improved and simplified Freshwater Farm Plans.”

4.32 This introduces a lot of uncertainty for the whole of the environmental policy work programme.

Natural Hazards

4.33 In May 2024 the Council agreed to the scope and proposed work programme for the Natural Hazards Plan Change (NHPC). A workshop with Council was held on 8 October 2024 where the high-level issues and options for the NHPC were discussed.

4.34 The Natural Hazards Awareness Campaign launched on 10 February 2025 with severe weather being the focus for the week. Wildfire, coastal hazards, flooding and geological hazards will occur in the following weeks through to 17 March 2025. The aim of the campaign is to inform and raise the community’s awareness of the natural hazards in the District and introduce complex information in an easily understandable manner, prior to engaging with the community on the issues and options. The natural hazards pages on the Council’s website have been revised and updated to support the awareness campaign. A natural hazards map viewer, due to go live late February 2025, will the display the location and extent of natural hazards that can occur across the District where technical information or modelling is available.

4.35 Staff are preparing for community engagement on the issues and options scheduled to start on 24 March 2025. The aim of the engagement is to seek feedback on whether we have identified the correct issue and outcome, and at a high level what is the preferred way to manage the effects of each hazard through the TRMP. The engagement will include a discussion document, webinars and drop-in sessions across the District. The drop-in sessions will be combined with community engagement on draft Plan Change 81 – Urban Growth.

Community Adaptation Planning / Motueka Master Plan

4.36 Through the Long Term Plan 2024-2034 a 10-year budget was allocated to progress ‘community adaptation plans’ to ensure our communities are resilient to the effects of climate change over the longer term. This work programme would leverage off work completed in recent years under the “Coastal Management Project” which focussed on coastal hazards and sea level rise, but now taking an ‘all-hazards’ approach. The Government is currently developing a ‘climate adaptation framework’ and our work programme would deliver on any legislative requirements set. New legislation is expected to be introduced sometime during 2025. However, the Minister for Climate Change has already signalled councils and communities are generally best placed to understand local risks and decide whether and how to protect each of their assets (see Cabinet paper: CAB-400 Progressing an adaptation framework - 15 April 2024).

4.37 Staff are proposing Motueka is the first community to undertake adaptation planning as part of a broader master plan process. Motueka is located in a very low-lying area, on the flood plain of the Motueka River, adjacent to the coast, and over an unconfined aquifer. The area is at potentially serious risk (both in isolation and combination) from coastal inundation, river flooding (stop-bank failure or large-scale events), rainfall (stormwater) events, ground water impacts, and drinking water contamination (as a large number of households rely on private bores for drinking water). Climate change, including sea level rise, is expected to also increase the exposure of coastal land to inundation events, and the potential frequency and magnitude of stormwater flooding. Highly productive land is located to the west of the township. The FDS (both 2019 and 2022 versions) signalled that while there is high demand for housing and business land both now and in the future, these significant constraints limit greenfield and intensification growth opportunities. There are also existing and longer-term infrastructure servicing issues, including the need to relocate the wastewater treatment plant from its current coastal location in the next decade. A strategic decision-making process is required to consider and address these challenges as a whole, working with the community.

4.38 During November–December 2024, staff undertook some initial background work including scoping workshops with relevant teams across the Council. This helped to gauge staff views on opportunities and challenges; scope of work programme; staff resourcing, etc. A high-level assessment of what other councils are doing on climate adaptation was also undertaken, to understand emerging best practice.

4.39 At the time of writing, a workshop is scheduled for 18 February to seek direction from the Council on commencing a Motueka Master Plan and work programme scope (e.g. focus, timeframe, extent of area, community engagement). Once this has been confirmed, staff will be able to determine next steps and communicate this to the wider community.

Port Tarakohe Structure Plan

4.40 The coastal planning team is developing a Structure Plan for Port Tarakohe. There is no current strategic plan covering Port Tarakohe and its surrounds so this project will provide a strategic framework to help guide the growth and development of the port.

4.41 Work completed to date includes:

4.41.1 initial stakeholder engagement;

4.41.2 issues and options report;

4.41.3 further engagement on issues and options report;

4.41.4 internal staff review of the draft Structure Plan; and

4.41.5 public consultation on draft Structure Plan.

4.42 Consultation on the draft Structure Plan occurred from December 2024 to 10 February 2025. Staff are currently working through the submissions received. The next steps will be a workshop with the Council to discuss submission feedback and recommendations for a final structure plan.

Port Motueka Structure Plan

4.43 Following an initial round of consultation to identify current issues with the layout and operation of Port Motueka, an issues and options discussion document is being developed. The draft document will be shared with the port users’ group and iwi to get their feedback. Following this process, the document will be workshopped with the Council ahead of a round of public consultation later in the year.

4.44 The following table gives a brief update on the major environmental policy work streams.

Project	Description	Status	Comments
Whole of Plan review	Review of the Tasman Regional Policy Statement and Tasman Resource Management Plan	On hold	Paused until there is more clarity on the Government’s intentions. Work programme has been reset to focus on key priorities.
E-Plan	Procurement and implementation of an electronic plan to replace paper-based planning documents	In progress	Text and mapping have been migrated to the e-plan. Quality assurance and testing is underway with a go live of June 2025.
Future Development Strategy Implementation	A programme of work to implement the Nelson Tasman Future Development Strategy	FDS & HBA COMPLETED Implementation in progress	Annual implementation plan and annual report adopted November 2024. Starting to scope 2025 implementation plan
Growth – Richmond Central	Development of a Richmond Spatial Plan for the urban area.	Complete	‘Richmond on the Rise’ spatial plan adopted April 2024. Implementation occurring through Urban Growth plan change, and other Council workstreams.
Growth – Richmond South	Development of a potential structure plan for Richmond South FDS growth area and consideration of possible re-zoning for growth	On-hold	Two rounds of community engagement completed; further progress paused until there is capacity to resume.
Growth plan changes (PC 75, 76, 77, 80)	Plan changes to enable higher density housing on residential zoned land and some re-zoning of rural land to residential in Murchison, Wakefield, Brightwater and Motueka.	On track Murchison & Brightwater	Murchison and Brightwater operative. Māpua is on hold pending Māpua Master Plan project outcomes. Wakefield under appeal. Motueka decision due for release.
Urban Growth Plan Change (PC81)	Plan Change to implement the first 10 years of FDS growth, and other growth-related outcomes.	On track	Preparation of the draft plan change nearly complete. Consultation expected March 2025.
Deferred zoning plan change (PC79)	Plan Change to fix the deferred zone system and update deferred zone locations.	On track	Consultation complete. 23 submissions received. Currently open for further submissions. Hearing expected May 2025.
ONL/F & CE (PC82, 83)	Plan changes to identify Outstanding Natural Landscapes and Features, redefine Tasman’s Coastal Environment line and identify areas of coastal natural character	On track	Drafting nearly complete. Next steps, draft plan changes released for public feedback.
Land & Freshwater plan change Including Takaka & Waimea (PC84)	Plan change to address freshwater management in Tasman, including Te Waikoropupū WCO	Timing uncertain due to law changes	TPK process working with iwi, Nelson, and Marlborough councils is complete. Working with iwi, stakeholders and internal staff to draft plan change content.
Natural Hazards (PC85)	Project to update TRMP to manage effects of natural hazards in Tasman.	In progress	Issues and Options report due 3^rd quarter 2024. Community engagement late 2024. Draft plan change 2026. See separate agenda item.
Port Tarakohe Structure Plan	Structure Plan for Port Tarakohe to guide future plan change	In progress	Consultation complete. Analysing submissions.
Port Motueka Structure Plan	Structure Plan for Port Motueka to guide future plan change	In progress	Draft issues and options paper due for workshop and release.

5. Attachments / Tuhinga tāpiri

Nil

Chairperson	Cr K Maling
Deputy Chairperson	Cr C Butler
Members	Mayor T King	Cr C Hill
	Deputy Mayor S Bryant	Cr M Kininmonth
	Cr G Daikee	Cr C Mackenzie
	Cr B Dowler	Cr B Maru
	Cr J Ellis	Cr D Shallcrass
	Cr M Greening	Cr T Walker