Agenda of Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti - Tuesday, 18 February 2025

Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti Agenda

18 February 2025

6 Pūrongo | Reports

6.1 Update on the Omnibus Reserve Management Plan

Kaituhi | Author: Yolanda Morgan, Team Leader Open Space Planning

Kaiwhakamana | Authoriser: Morag Taimalietane, Principal Advisor Customer and Community

Te pūtake | Purpose

1 This report provides an update on the preparation of the Omnibus Reserve Management Plan (RMP), including the reserve classification process.

Taunakitanga | RECOMMENDATIONS

2. That Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti notes the update and the next steps for the development of the Omnibus Reserve Management Plan.

Tūāpapa | Background

3 Council manages 125 parks and reserves, totalling 438 hectares of open space. This includes our destination parks, sports fields, esplanade reserves, neighbourhood parks and playgrounds, heritage, scenic and local purpose reserves.

4 The Open Space Planning team has been preparing to develop an omnibus RMP, covering all 125 parks and reserves that are managed by the Council.

5 Hui with our iwi partners have been held to co-design our approach to the development of the RMP and we continue to work together to understand and document the special values of the whenua which make up our parks and reserves. The next hui is scheduled to take place on 21 February 2025.

6 Following that hui, a recommendation will be put to Council to publicly notify our intention to prepare the RMP. This will start the process (stipulated in the Reserves Act) that must be followed to prepare an RMP.

He take | issues

7 Council is required by legislation to prepare, and keep under continuous review, a management plan for the reserves that it manages. Council currently has management plans for only 19 reserves (out of 125), and many of these plans are more than 30 years old.

8 Reserve management plans provide for the use, enjoyment, maintenance, protection and preservation of reserves. Management plans provide guidance around what uses and activities are acceptable (or not acceptable) on individual or group of reserves and ensures transparent and consistent decision making.

9 The legal status of an RMP varies according to the legal status of the land it covers:

9.1 For land that is held subject to the Reserves Act, and classified according to its primary purpose, it will be a statutory Reserve Management Plan under the Act.

9.2 For Council land that is managed for open space purposes, that has not yet been classified, it will be a non-statutory guiding document.

10 As part of the RMP process, Council is also undertaking a staged process to classify the unclassified parks and reserves, where that is appropriate. The RMP will then become a statutory management plan under the Act for these sites.

11 Many of our unclassified reserves can be classified without public notification. These are reserves that are currently used and managed for the purpose for which they were acquired by Council and are zoned Open Space in the District Plan.

12 At our February hui we will continue to discuss and confirm those sites to be classified, along with the proposed classifications. A recommendation to classify those reserves will be taken to Council, along with the recommendation to notify Council’s intention to prepare an RMP.

13 Any unclassified reserves that need further research or additional consultation with stakeholders, and those that need to be publicly notified due to their current use or legal status, will continue to be discussed and will be included in a future recommendation.

Ngā kōwhiringa | Options

14 Do nothing - Council could continue to operate without a management plan for its parks and reserves, or with outdated plans for those reserves where they do exist. However, this is a breach of Council’s requirements under the Act. Without up to date, fit for purpose management plans, decision making around the management, use and development of Council managed parks and reserves risks being inconsistent, not transparent and not in line with the views and aspirations of the community.

15 Prepare an RMP for each Reserve – Council could prepare individual management plans for each reserve, or groups of reserves. As we currently have very few management plans in place and 125 reserves, it is efficient to prepare one management plan providing a consistent set of policies. Individual reserves, or groups of reserves (e.g. neighbourhood playgrounds), will still be able to have specific policies on their management where relevant.

16 Prepare an Omnibus RMP – An omnibus RMP is the most efficient option to meet the Council’s legislative requirements and enable both general provisions, as well as reserve specific provisions, to be provided in one document. The omnibus RMP will be made up of two sections:

A. General Policy Section

B. Reserve Specific Management Plans

17 While the document will be larger than an individual RMP, we aim to publish the plan using the E-plan platform to enable easy navigation. For example, users will be able to search by reserve name or address and be provided with links to all the relevant policies for that reserve.

Mana Whenua

18 As mentioned above, the development of the RMP to date has followed a co-design approach with the involvement of representatives from our three iwi partners.

19 The RMP will acknowledge the cultural values of the whenua which make up our parks and reserves and will recognise the intrinsic relationship of iwi with the land through enabling appropriate practices, management provisions and storytelling.

20 We will continue to work with our iwi partners to refine the scope of the RMP and in drafting the provisions of the RMP.

ngā Mahi panuku | next steps

21 The preparation of an RMP must follow the process set out in the Reserves Act 1977. The includes two phases of public notification and engagement.

22 Following the February hui, a recommendation will be taken to Council to pass the following resolutions:

o To notify the intention to prepare an omnibus RMP for all Council managed reserves and invite feedback from stakeholders and the wider community.

o To classify a number of reserves (the final list of reserves to be classified will be confirmed following the February hui).

23 If the Council passes the resolution to notify the intent to prepare an RMP, the next steps will be:

a. Publication of the notice of intent

b. Stakeholder and community engagement phase including:

i. Have your say platform

ii. Social media

iii. Staff “pop-ups” at community markets, coastlands and play events

iv. Community board meetings

v. Targeted stakeholder engagement

c. Feedback period closes

d. Analysis of public feedback and drafting of the RMP

e. Draft RMP document publicly notified and call for submissions

f. Submission period

g. Hearings

h. Recommendation and decision following hearings

i. Final RMP published

24 If the Council passes the resolution to classify any reserves, then a notice will be placed in the gazette formalising those classifications.

Ngā āpitihanga | Attachments

Nil

Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti Agenda

18 February 2025

6.2 Progress report on Council's Flood Mapping Update Project

Kaituhi | Author: Simon Scott, Senior Advisor Stormwater and Coastal Assets

Kaiwhakamana | Authoriser: Sean Mallon, Group Manager Infrastructure and Asset Management

Te pūtake | Purpose

1 This update is to provide a progress report to Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti on updating Council’s district flood model and associated upcoming community engagement.

2 Council staff will provide a brief presentation to accompany this report.

Taunakitanga | RECOMMENDATIONS

That Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti:

A. Note the progress on Council’s update of the district flood model and associated flood extents mapping.

B. Note the outline of proposed iwi engagement activities to occur during community engagement stage, anticipated to commence in March/April 2025.

Tūāpapa | Background

3 Council is updating flood hazard mapping for the district, utilising the latest modelling tools and methods, and incorporating improved topographic and environmental data. This work builds on previous modelling undertaken in 2010-2012, which forms the basis for the current District Plan Flood Maps.

He take | issues

4 The updated flood model will be a valuable tool for informing land-use planning, infrastructure investment, and resilience. The model may also inform integrated catchment management projects currently being scoped by Council and by Greater Wellington Regional Council (GW), to improve water quality and ecological outcomes.

5 The updated flood model utilises TUFLOW software, a powerful tool that simulates water movement through rivers, floodplains, and urban areas using a “rain-on-grid” method to better understand how runoff flows and ponds in built-up environments.

6 The model incorporates updated local information such as detailed topographic data (LiDAR), major infrastructure works (e.g., SH1 upgrades), improved rainfall projections (HIRDS), and new groundwater modelling. The model also includes details of the stormwater network, including pipes, drains, culverts, and soakage systems.

7 The modelling methodology includes a joint probability analysis, to account for potential combined effects of rainfall, groundwater, and tidal influences, and examines current flood risks and climate change forecasts for 2070 and 2130, following Ministry for the Environment guidelines.

8 The updated flood model has been used to produce flood extent and depth mapping for the following three climate scenarios, as the basis for community engagement:

8.1 100-year rainfall event (1% AEP) under current climate conditions.

8.2 100-year rainfall event in 2070, factoring in climate change.

8.3 100-year rainfall event in 2130, factoring in climate change.

9 Several significant regional and national flood mapping projects are also currently underway.

10 GW is commencing an update of their major river flooding modelling, focusing on the Ōtaki and Waikanae rivers, and rural waterways. Initial engagement on this project began in late 2024, with GW seeking historic flood information and photos. Draft updated major river flood maps are expected by mid-2025.

11 The National institute for Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) is also in the latter stages of a Central Government-funded national flood mapping project, which is expected to deliver preliminary flood mapping products in June/July 2025. The purpose of this NIWA project is to inform national policy and emergency planning. NIWA acknowledges that local mapping, prepared by local authorities, is more appropriate for assessing local flood hazards.

12 Council commenced a digital campaign from December 2024 to early March 2025, to raise public awareness about the district’s flood risks, local and central government roles and responsibilities, and why/how flood models are used. This campaign highlighted the natural and historical factors contributing to local flood conditions, such as the district’s geography, high water table, and development history. Information was also provided about where to access current flood information, and what actions the community can take before and during major flood events.

Ngā kōwhiringa | Options

13 There are no options to be presented on this matter.

Mana Whenua

14 The primary focus of the current project is to establish an up-to-date and accurate flood model for areas of the Kāpiti Coast serviced by Council’s urban stormwater network.

15 Once updated, the model will enable the creation of various flood mapping products to inform future decision making of interest to mana whenua. These products will improve understanding of:

15.1 community vulnerability to flood hazards

15.2 the occurrence of frequent nuisance flooding

15.3 ecological interactions with urban drainage and groundwater

15.4 potential impacts of urban development proposals on awa

16 Addressing these flood-related issues will require a partnership approach with mana whenua, as well as targeted engagement with key stakeholders. This further mahi falls outside the scope of the flood modelling update project.

17 Presently, staff are seeking Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti’s guidance on mana whenua engagement to help verify the accuracy of the updated flood model, in addition to the general activities and engagement resources outlined later in this report.

18 Potential mana whenua engagements could include:

18.1 staffed drop-in sessions at local marae

18.2 flood management hui with iwi leadership and key staff

18.3 other engagement activities proposed by Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti.

ngā Mahi panuku | next steps

19 The next phase of this project will involve using the new flood maps as the basis for community engagement, commencing late March 2025, where local knowledge and feedback will be used to validate and refine the updated flood model.

20 A comprehensive communication strategy will leverage multiple channels (website, social media, e-newsletters, radio and print), including an interactive mapping portal to help residents understand the implications of flood risk for their properties and local communities. Community engagement events, drop-in sessions, and online platforms will also be available for residents and businesses to review the maps and share their lived experiences with flooding in the district.

21 Through a targeted approach, Council will engage with key stakeholders, including mana whenua, newly affected property owners, developers, and the insurance sector, ensuring they are informed and able to provide meaningful feedback. Owners of properties newly identified as potentially affected by flooding under the new flood model will also be contacted directly by mail.

22 Council is also actively engaging with the Insurance Council to ensure they have current and accurate information about the Kāpiti Coast’s flood risk.

23 The project will seek to align messaging with Greater Wellington’s flood map update project, ensuring consistent communication. This may involve joint participation in drop-in sessions, consistent messaging, and mutual web links and content, as appropriate.

24 Staff are liaising with NIWA to maximise the alignment of the projects and of the various flood mapping products and information.

25 Following the community engagement phase, feedback will be gathered and analysed to validate and update the flood model as required. The results of the engagement will be summarised in a final report, which will contribute to the refinement of the flood hazard maps.

26 If there are changes to the District Plan because of this updated modelling, there will be a separate public process under the RMA. This process will also consider updated river flood mapping from GW to ensure a joined-up approach across the district.

Ngā āpitihanga | Attachments

Nil

Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti Agenda

18 February 2025

6.3 Local Water Done Well Update

Kaituhi | Author: Tamara Silk, Executive Assistant

Kaiwhakamana | Authoriser: Sean Mallon, Group Manager Infrastructure and Asset Management

Te pūtake | Purpose

1 This update provides an overview of the options being explored by the Council for the future delivery of water services (water supply/wastewater and stormwater) as per the requirements of the Local Government (Water Services Preliminary Arrangements) Act 2024. This update provides an opportunity to understand the options, issues and implications.

2 The Local Water Done Well legislation enacted in September last year introduced a new regulatory regime that water service providers must meet. In addition to new economic, environmental and water quality regulations, planning, and reporting requirements, water services providers must produce a Water Services Delivery Plan and accompanying implementation plan by 3 September 2025, demonstrating financial sustainability by July 2028.

3 The legislation provides for alternative water services delivery models, including establishing a council-owned Water Services Organisation singly or jointly with other existing providers and consumer trusts. The council must choose whether to remain with its existing internal business unit model or commit to an alternative delivery model in its Water Services Delivery plan.

Ngā āpitihanga | Attachments

Nil

Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti Agenda

18 February 2025

6.4 Māori Economic Development Fund 2024-25

Kaituhi | Author: Karly Richardson, Kaitohutohu o ngā Kaupapa ā Iwi

Kaiwhakamana | Authoriser: Hara Adams, Group Manager Iwi Partnerships

Te pūtake | Purpose

1 This report provides Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti with an overview of the Māori Economic Development Fund 2024-25.

He whakarāpopoto | EXecutive summary

2 An executive summary is not required.

Te tuku haepapa | Delegation

3 Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti may consider this matter under the Memorandum of Partnership. Clause 21, subclause iv) identifies the following principle: that Council will have particular regard to the rights of tangata whenua in the management and development of resources by recognising and providing for rangatiratanga.

Taunakitanga | RECOMMENDATIONS

That Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti:

A. endorse the amount of $________ available for the contestable grant.

B. endorse the amount of $________ for the administration of the grant.

C. endorse the 2024-25 grant round opening on 24 February 2025 and closing on 30 March 2025.

Tūāpapa | Background

4 In 2013, Council adopted the Māori Economic Development and Wellbeing strategy. This strategy informs the delivery Māori Economic Development Fund project which aims to financially assist mana whenua and mātāwaka to stand up projects that align with one or more of the following themes:

· Manaakitanga – leveraging the potential of rangatahi and building whānau capacity

· Kaitiakitanga – working with the whenua

· Kotahitanga – supporting whānau to achieve economic wellbeing via capacity, collaboration, innovation, and Māori business.

5 In 2023, Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti confirmed the Māori Economic Development Fund allocation subcommittee members for the 2022-25 triennium. The subcommittee members are as follows: Kim Tahiwi (Ngā Hapū o Ōtaki), Russell Spratt (Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai), Councillor Martin Halliday, and John Barrett (Experienced in Economic Development).

6 In 2024, Te Whakaminenga o Kāpiti confirmed Waipuna Grace (Ngāti Toa Rangatira) as a member of the Māori Economic Development Fund allocation subcommittee for the 2022-25 triennium.

7 In the previous grant round, a total amount of $72,000 was awarded across 4 different projects.

He kōrerorero | Discussion

8 The Māori Economic Development Fund 2024-25 grant round will be facilitated by the Iwi Partnerships group in co-ordination with the allocation subcommittee members.

He take | Issues

9 After taking into consideration costs associated with advertising, meetings, and information workshops, it is proposed that part of the fund is to be allocated as administration costs and the remainder be available for the contestable grant amount. Suggested figures and amounts will be tabled at the meeting.

10 The Māori Economic Development Fund grants are to be awarded and finalised before 30 June 2025, which is the end of the 2024-25 financial year. To meet this target, it is proposed that the grant round will open on 24 February 2025 and close on 30 March 2025.

Ngā kōwhiringa | Options

Mana whenua

11 Engagement with mana whenua will continue through the Iwi Partnerships group.

Panonitanga Āhuarangi me te Taiao | Climate change and Environment

12 Applicants to the Māori Economic Development Fund will be encouraged to provide details of how their project considers the effects of climate change.

Ahumoni me ngā rawa | Financial and resourcing

13 It is proposed that a portion of the total amount available in the Māori Economic Development Fund 2024-25 be set aside for the administration of the grant, which includes advertising, meetings, and information workshops; with the remainder of the total amount be available for the contestable grant amount. The total amount available in the Māori Economic Development Fund 2024-25 along with suggested figures and amounts will be tabled at the 18 February 2025 meeting of Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti.

Tūraru ā-Ture me te Whakahaere | Legal and Organisational Risk

13 There are no legal risks.

Ngā pānga ki ngā kaupapa here | Policy impact

14 There is no policy impact.

TE whakawhiti kōrero me te tūhono | Communications & engagement

Te mahere tūhono | Engagement planning

15 An engagement plan is not needed to implement this decision. Council will communicate details of the fund through its established communication channels.

Whakatairanga | Publicity

16 A communications plan will be developed to inform the community, mana whenua, mātāwaka, and Māori businesses of the fund.

Ngā āpitihanga | Attachments

Nil


RĀRANGI TAKE AGENDA Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti Tuesday, 18 February 2025
I hereby give notice that a Te Whakaminenga o Kapiti meeting will be held on:
Date:	Tuesday, 18 February 2025
Time:	9.30am
Location:	Council Chamber Ground Floor, 175 Rimu Road Paraparaumu
Hara Adams Group Manager Iwi Partnerships