Agenda of Waitakere Ranges Local Board

1 Welcome

2 Apologies

Apology has been received from Member Denise Yates.

3 Declaration of Interest

Members are reminded of the need to be vigilant to stand aside from decision making when a conflict arises between their role as a member of the local board and any private or other external interest they might have.

At its meeting on 28 November 2013, the Waitakere Ranges Local Board resolved (resolution number WTK/2013/1) to record any possible conflicts of interest in a register.

Register

Board Member	Organisation / Position
Sandra Coney	· Waitemata District Health Board – Elected Member · Friends of Arataki Incorporated – Trustee · Women’s Health Action Trust – Patron
Neil Henderson	· Portage Trust – Elected Member · Friends of Arataki Incorporated – Trustee · West Auckland Trust Services (WATS) Board – Trustee/Director · Weedfree Trust – Employee
Greg Presland	· Portage Trust – Elected Member · Lopdell House Development Trust – Trustee · Titirangi Residents & Ratepayers Group – Treasurer
Steve Tollestrup	· Waitakere Licensing Trust – Elected Member · Community Waitakere – Trustee · West Auckland Trust Services (WATS) Board – Trustee/Director · Henderson Valley Residents Association – Committee Member
Saffron Toms	No current conflicts of interest
Denise Yates	· Ecomatters Environment Trust – Deputy Chair · Keep Waitakere Beautiful Trust – Board Member · Huia-Cornwallis Ratepayers & Residents Association – Co-chairperson · Charlotte Museum Trust – Trustee

4 Confirmation of Minutes

That the Waitakere Ranges Local Board:

a) Confirms the minutes of its meeting, held on Thursday, 28 November 2013, as a true and correct record.

5 Leave of Absence

At the close of the agenda no requests for leave of absence had been received.

6 Acknowledgements

At the close of the agenda no requests for acknowledgements had been received.

7 Update from Ward Councillors

An opportunity is provided for the Waitakere Ward Councillors to update the board on regional issues they have been involved with since the last meeting.

8 Deputations

8.1 Deputation - Internet speed issues at Bethells Beach

Purpose

§ To make the Waitakere Ranges Local Board aware of the issues and challenges faced by the Bethells Beach/Te Henga community in relation to internet speed and service.

§ To share what we have done as a community group to address these issues with our main internet service providers and with Chorus (line provider) prior to needing to approach the local board.

§ To ask for support from our local board on behalf of the Bethells Beach/Te Henga community.

Recommendation/s

That the Waitakere Ranges Local Board:

a) Receives deputation from Bethells Beach/Te Henga community.

8.2 Deputation from Tag Out Trust

Executive Summary

The Tag Out Trust has developed a number of integrated social change programmes. Our mix of education and awareness schemes tackle the core issues which influence the behaviour of people who create graffiti and those who are the recipients of graffiti vandalism.

These include disincentives for undesirable behaviour, but also give those most at risk an outlet to express themselves and reconnect with their local community. We also run projects which aim to foster an appreciation for the natural and built environment.

All work together to raise awareness of the issue and reduce the incidence of graffiti vandalism.

As a not-for profit community organisation, we see our local community as one of our most important stakeholders and most likely asset in the attempt to achieve long term change in the issue of graffiti.

As a result we have built strong relationships with local organisations, schools and groups.

Short Power point presentation on each of these following initiatives:-

· Adopt-a-spot:

· Neat Street Programme:

· Self Help Removal/Resident participation and awareness campaigns:

· Business Promotional activities:/ Residents and ratepayer groups, and Business Associations:

· The Traffic Box Art Project:

· Murals:

· Camera surveillance equipment:

· Community Services Programme:

Recommendation/s

That the Waitakere Ranges Local Board:

a) Receives deputation from the Tag Out Trust.

Attachments

a Presentation from Tag Out Trust........................................................... 81

9 Public Forum

A period of time (approximately 30 minutes) is set aside for members of the public to address the meeting on matters within its delegated authority. A maximum of 3 minutes per item is allowed, following which there may be questions from members.

At the close of the agenda no requests for public forum had been received.

10 Extraordinary Business

Section 46A(7) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (as amended) states:

“An item that is not on the agenda for a meeting may be dealt with at that meeting if-

(a) The local authority by resolution so decides; and

(b) The presiding member explains at the meeting, at a time when it is open to the public,-

(i) The reason why the item is not on the agenda; and

(ii) The reason why the discussion of the item cannot be delayed until a subsequent meeting.”

Section 46A(7A) of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 (as amended) states:

“Where an item is not on the agenda for a meeting,-

(a) That item may be discussed at that meeting if-

(i) That item is a minor matter relating to the general business of the local authority; and

(ii) the presiding member explains at the beginning of the meeting, at a time when it is open to the public, that the item will be discussed at the meeting; but

(b) no resolution, decision or recommendation may be made in respect of that item except to refer that item to a subsequent meeting of the local authority for further discussion.”

11 Notices of Motion

At the close of the agenda no requests for notices of motion had been received.

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

12 December 2013

Consultation Plan Date: 25 November 2013

To: Waitakere Ranges Local Board – Sandra Coney, Neil Henderson, Greg Presland, Steve Tollestrup, Saffron Toms, Denise Yates

CC: Grant Jennings – Local & Sports Park West Manager

Sharleen Grounds – Local Board Advisor

From: Helen Biffin – Team Leader – Parks Liaison and Development, LSP West

Project name: Ecological Restoration of Piha Beach Reserves

Background

Pest plants and animal pests are negatively impacting on the Piha Beach Reserve network and only minor work has been undertaken in the past to address this issue. Wildland Consultants were engaged by Auckland Council to develop an ecological restoration plan for the Piha Beach Reserves during 2012. An initial five year work programme has been developed using the ecological restoration plan and considering budget availability.

The project requires a long term programme for the removal of pest plants and planting of ecosourced native plants within the Piha Beach reserve network. Animal pest control will also be considered as part of the programme of works.

Why is council consulting on this project?

Local residents and land owners in the Piha area have an interest in the restoration of Piha Beach reserves and Auckland Council would like feedback from all interested parties on the intended programme to ensure community buy-in and potentially their participation.

What is council consulting on?

Auckland Council is consulting on the priorities proposed in the initial five year work programme to restore the network of reserves. Work will include:

· Pest plant control

· Planting of ecosourced native plants

· Animal pest control

Target audiences: key stakeholders – likely interest and method of engagement

o Internal

Who	Why are they likely to be interested?	Method of engagement
Waitakere Ranges Local Board	Governance of local parks	Email

o External

Who	Why are they likely to be interested?	Method of engagement
Local Iwi – Keith Willams	Mana Whenua	Email
Ratepayers & Residents Association	Interested resident group	Email
Piha Coastcare Group	Interested resident group	Email
Blairs on the Beach	General interest in Piha	Email
Piha Community Library	General interest in Piha	Email and provide copy of restoration plan for public to view from 16 December 2013.
Piha RSA	General interest in Piha	Email
Piha Domain Motor Camp	General interest in Piha	Email
Piha Surf Life Saving Club	General interest in Piha	Email
United North Piha Surf Life Saving Club	General interest in Piha	Email
Keyhole Boardriders Club	General interest in Piha	Post details
Protect Piha Heritage Society Inc	General interest in Piha	Email
General community	General interest in Piha	Community display at Piha to be held on Saturday 18 January 2014. (site to be confirmed).
North Piha Beach front residents	General interest in Piha	Flyer drop/mail out during mid December.

Spokespeople

Waitakere Ranges Local Board Auckland Council Staff

Sandra Coney Helen Biffin

Saffron Toms Chris Loughborough

Decision-making process

Following consultation with all stakeholders the following will occur:

· Submit a business report to Waitakere Ranges Local Board to relay consultation findings and to seek approval of an initial five year work programme; and

· Began physical work of five year programme from September 2014.

Level of influence and engagement

Overall, council should be consulting at the Consult level:

o Consultation goal – seek assistance to prioritise work initial five year work programme.

o Council’s promise to the public – feedback will be provided to the public on submission made by email.

o Examples of techniques/methods to consider – Provide documents via email and request feedback. Hold a drop in day at the Piha Community Library to enable discussion and feedback.

Risk/issues analysis

Risks/Issues	Recommended mitigation
Community expectation is high	Ensure understanding of budget limitations and the potential risk of excessive removal of vegetation in any one year.
Budget restraints	Limited budget is available for the project. A slow and continued approach to restoration will achieve the best results.

Timelines for the communications and consultation activities

Date	Communications and consultation activities	Who is responsible?
12 Dec 2013	Formal approval of consultation plan from Local Board	Waitakere Ranges Local Board
16 Dec 2013	Provide ‘Ecological Restoration Plan For Piha Beach Reserves’ and Proposed Five Year Work Programme to Piha Community Library for general viewing.	Helen Biffin
16 Dec 2013	Email ‘Ecological Restoration Plan For Piha Beach Reserves’ and Proposed Five Year Work Programme to all stakeholders.	Helen Biffin
18 Jan 2014	Communications stand (drop in day) at Piha Community Library to add discussion and feedback.	Helen Biffin
7 Feb 2014	Consultation closes.
March 2014	Results of consultation and recommendations of work plan are formally reported to Waitakere Ranges Local Board.	Helen Biffin

Budget

Budget requirements for consultation are minimal.

How will the project be evaluated?

A feedback form will be provided with all email consultation and will also be available at the Piha Community Library.

Feedback recieved will be considered against recommendations made in the Ecological Restoration Plan of Piha Beach Reserves and with consideration to available budget.

Feedback will be reported to the Waitakere Ranges Local Board and approval for an initial five year work programme will be sort

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

12 December 2013

Consultation Plan Date: 25 November 2013

a) To: Waitakere Ranges Local Board – Sandra Coney, Neil Henderson, Greg Presland, Steve Tollestrup, Saffron Toms, Denise Yates

b) CC: Grant Jennings – Local & Sports Park West Manager

Sharleen Grounds – Local Board Advisor

c) From: Helen Biffin – Team Leader – Parks Liaison and Development, LSP West

Project name: Upgrade of Dog Bylaw Signage at Piha

Background

The Communications & Public Affairs department together with Local & Sports Parks and Regional Parks have designed a standard design for dog bylaw signage for regional use.

The Piha Beach dog bylaw is complex and requires an overall map in key positions to show the changes in control requirements of dogs, throughout the entire site. These map signs link with the proposed poles signs on the edge of the dunes. Map signs are 400mm x 600mm mounted on a post, whilst the pole signs are 250mm x 1200mm rough sawn pine timber with a coloured logo reset into the pole at a size of 215mm x 260mm.

The proposed signage is designed to better inform park users of the current dog bylaws and to clearly show areas of the Piha where dogs are prohibited, and areas which are on and off leash.

Why is council consulting on this project?

Local residents and land owners in the Piha area have an interest in the upgrade and installation of

new assets proposed to be installed in their reserves and Auckland Council would like feedback from all interested parties on the proposal to ensure community by in.

What is council consulting on?

Auckland Council is consulting on the following:

· The number of signs proposed to be installed in carparks;

· The position of signs proposed in the carparks;

· The number of indicator posts proposed to be installed on the beach;

· The position of signs proposed on the beach.

Target audiences: key stakeholders – likely interest and method of engagement

o Internal

Who	Why are they likely to be interested?	Method of engagement
Waitakere Ranges Local Board	Governance of local parks	Email

o External

Who	Why are they likely to be interested?	Method of engagement
Local Iwi	Mana Whenua	Email
Ratepayers & Residents Association	Interested resident group	Email
Piha Coastcare Group	Interested resident group	Email
Blairs on the Beach	General interest in Piha	Email
Piha Community Library	General interest in Piha	Email and provide a copy of the proposal.
Piha RSA	General interest in Piha	Email
Piha Domain Motor Camp	General interest in Piha	Email
Piha Surf Life Saving Club	General interest in Piha	Email
United North Piha Surf Life Saving Club	General interest in Piha	Email
Keyhole Boardriders Club	General interest in Piha	Post details
Protect Piha Heritage Society Inc	General interest in Piha	Email
North Piha Beach front residents	General interest in Piha	Flyer drop/mail out during mid December.

Spokespeople

Waitakere Ranges Local Board Auckland Council Staff

Sandra Coney Grant Jennings

Mike Feather

Decision-making process

Following consultation with all stakeholders the following will occur:

· Submit a business report to Waitakere Ranges Local Board to relay consultation findings;

· Consider required changes to the programme; and

· Seek approval from the Local Board to build and install upgraded dog bylaw signage.

Level of influence and engagement

Overall, council should be consulting at the Consult level:

o Consultation goal – seek feedback on the proposal.

o Council’s promise to the public – feedback will be provided to the public on submissions made by email.

o Examples of techniques/methods to consider – Provide documents via email and request feedback. Provide proposal documents for viewing at the Piha Community Library.

Risk/issues analysis

Risks/Issues

Recommended mitigation

Community expectation is high

Ensure understanding of budget limitations.

Ensure understanding of regional requirements to use approved branding.

Ensure understanding of bylaw processes.

Timelines for the communications and consultation activities

Date	Communications and consultation activities	Who is responsible?
12 Dec 2013	Formal approval of consultation plan from Local Board	Waitakere Ranges Local Board
16 Dec 2013	Provide hard copies of proposal for viewing at the Piha Community Library.	Helen Biffin
16 Dec 2013	Email proposal to all known stakeholders.	Helen Biffin
15 Jan 2014	Consultation closes.
February 2014	Results of consultation and recommendations of work plan are formally reported to Waitakere Ranges Local Board.	Helen Biffin

Budget

Budget requirements for consultation are minimal.

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

12 December 2013

Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan

File No.: CP2013/27645

Purpose

1. To provide the Waitakere Ranges Local Board with a brief background on the Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan project, and a summary of public feedback. In addition, the report seeks approval to reconstitute the Political Reference Group and approval of the proposed process and timeframe.

Executive Summary

2. The Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan is a project funded by the Waitakere Ranges Local Board over a two year period 2012-2014. To date, a Background Report has been prepared, the project scope agreed with the Board, and the governance structure established. The latter includes a Political Reference Group with membership from the governing body, the Local Board and Te Kawerau a Maki, and cross-council representation on a Project Steering Group and a Project Team.

3. A public engagement exercise was undertaken from July to September this year, based on issues for consultation that were approved by the Local Board. Public feedback from this consultation exercise is now being reported, and approval is sought for the next phase to commence.

Recommendation/s

That the Waitakere Ranges Local Board:

a) Receives the report on public consultation for the Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan.

b) Directs officers to set up a Political Reference Group to make recommendations to the Waitakere Local Board on the proposed management plan, the invited members of the group to consist of two Waitakere Ranges Local Board representatives, the two western ward councilors, and a representative of Te Kawerau a Maki.

c) Approves the process and timelines presented in this report.

Discussion

4. A Visitor Management Plan for the Waitakere Ranges is a priority project funded by the Waitakere Ranges Local Board. Funding of $83,000 has been allocated to this project. A short history and context of Visitor Plans for the Waitakere Ranges is attached (Attachment A).

5. A background report bringing together relevant information on visitors to the Waitakere Ranges was approved for public release on 22 May 2013 (WTK/2013/92). Most of the data available is collected for the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park (which forms around two thirds of the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area), and covers visitor numbers and characteristics, visitor satisfaction with their experience in regional parks, and consented activities. There is less information available on visitors to other parts of the Ranges such as local parks, Titirangi and the eastern foothills.

6. The Local Board has identified the geographic area to be covered by the Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan and the approach to be taken to visitor-related economic activity. The Board has requested that the Visitor Management Plan should acknowledge and build on the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park Management Plan (2010) and that it focus on the tools to manage visitors.

7. The Local Board has also recognised that some of the actions in the Visitor Management Plan are likely to be outside the scope of Local Board decision-making powers. These actions will need to be referred to the governing body, or advocated by the Local Board. Attachment B provides more detail of the parameters set for the project.

Visitor Management Plan Governance

8. A meeting of the Waitakere Ranges Local Board on 27 March 2013 resolved to approve the setting up of a Political Reference Group for the project (Resolution WTK/2013/42). The Terms of Reference for this group were approved at the meeting of 22 May 2013 (Resolution WTK/2013/92).

9. This group would allow members of the governing body and iwi to keep abreast of issues in the Visitor Management Plan, and would encourage input to the Plan from governing body and iwi perspectives. Staff from ATEED and AT are involved in the project through the Project Steering Group and/or the Project Team.

Public Consultation

10. A process and timeframe for the Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan was approved by the Local Board on 27 March 2013 (Resolution WTK/2013/42) and the list of issues for public consultation was approved by the Waitakere Ranges Local Board on 22 May 2013 (Resolution WTK/2013/92)

11. A public engagement programme was undertaken during July, August and September 2013. The main elements of this programme were:

a) Six public workshops at Huia, Waiatarua, Bethells/ Te Henga, Henderson Valley, Oratia and Piha

b) ‘Open day’ sessions in conjunction with the Titirangi, Swanson and Oratia markets

c) On-line information and survey

d) Information through email networks

e) Interviews with key stakeholders

Documentation of the consultation undertaken is attached (Attachment C).

12. A meeting was held with Te Kawerau a Maki on 17 October 2013 to identify their particular aspirations and requests, and a similar meeting with Ngati Whatua has been scheduled for 25 November.

13. A brief summary of the feedback is outlined below. Attachment D contains a fuller summary of the results of the public consultation.

The respondents

14. Generally, the respondents are aged over 50 and are ‘westies’, living in the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area or in West Auckland. Residents and bach owners have a long association with the Ranges (11 years or more) and over half are from Bethells/Te Henga, Piha and Titirangi.

15. The views of younger age groups (15-40 years), recreational groups, tourism operators and businesses are under-represented. Very few people from the wider Auckland region or overseas took part in the online survey.

Issues identified

16. The issues fall into two main categories; Waitakere Ranges-wide (values, visitors and their impacts and experience), and place-based information.

Values

17. Overall, there is strong support for protecting and conserving the natural environment, particularly the native bush and beaches, providing for ‘low key’ economic opportunities in the Ranges and guiding new larger businesses into areas of fewer sensitive environmental values. Differences of opinion are evident however, contributing to tensions over the extent to which the Ranges should be promoted and visitor-oriented businesses and infrastructure enabled.

Visitor impacts

18. Only 50% of respondents to the survey said that visitors cause them inconvenience or concerns. The most common concerns are:

· Traffic/roading/poor driving/carparking issues, for example conflict between cyclists and vehicles on Scenic Drive/cyclist safety

· Damage to the environment, for example spread of Kauri Die-back disease, weeds & pests, faecal contamination of water, overfishing, litter.

19. Other concerns are signage (more interpretive signs needed, too many road signs), better provision of infrastructure (boat ramps, toilets, bins etc) and dogs (welcome but need to be under control/need more designated off-leash areas).

The visitor experience

20. There were differences of opinion about the extent to which new facilities are needed but general agreement that better maintenance is required, especially in summer. More loop tracks would be welcome whereas there were differences of opinion about provision for mountain biking.

21. A number of respondents to the survey (30) identified accommodation, visitor facilities and development needed to improve the visitor experience: for example provide more boat ramps, parking and services in support of fishing on the Manukau Harbour.

22. There is strong support for ‘marking’ the gateways to the Ranges but opinion is spread between the options (special planting, a pou, a sign or a sculptural gateway).

Place-based issues

23. There are many suggestions addressing local circumstances, ranging from ideas for new activities/infrastructure to solutions for ongoing management concerns. The Manukau Harbour community would like the Dam Road opened to vehicles as well as pedestrians. At Bethells/Te Henga, the community focused on carparking issues at the beach and Lake Wainamu, and the importance of keeping up weed and pest control throughout the valley. A summary of place-based issues is set out in Attachment D.

Process and Timeframe

24. The timeframe approved by the Local Board proposed that a report on the consultation and a draft Management Plan be prepared for the Board’s consideration by November 2013, public consultation undertaken on the draft plan in February and March 2014, and a final Visitor Management Plan approved in May 2014. This timeframe allows insufficient time for Local Board workshops to give adequate consideration to the issues. A new timeline is therefore proposed for the Local Board’s consideration:

Project stages

Report on consultation to the Board

Workshop Nov. 2013,

Report December 2013

First draft Management Plan to the Board

Workshops Feb and March 2014

Report April 2014

Phase 2 Consultation on draft plan

May/June 2014

Final Visitor Management Plan to Board for approval

Workshop July 2014

Report August 2014

Consideration

Maori Impact Statement

25. The Waitakere Ranges Local Board resolved at their meeting on 27 March 2013 to invite Te Kawerau ā Maki and Ngāti Whātua onto the Political Reference Group established as part of the project governance (resolution WTK/2013/42). Ngati Whatua and Te Kawerau a Maki agreed that Te Kawerau a Maki should provide the representation on the Reference Group.

26. Representation on the Political Reference Group in conjunction with an additional special meeting has provided Te Kawerau a Maki with the opportunity to participate in the governance of this project and to ensure that their concerns are addressed.

27. Te Kawerau a Maki have long term ambitions for culturally oriented, low to medium scale, low impact commercial enterprises in the Waitakere Ranges. While the exact nature of these is not yet known, examples may be accommodation, cultural guiding or other authentic cultural experiences.

28. Te Kawerau a Maki considers the whole of the Ranges, the great forest of Tiriwa, to be a Site of Significance and an important ecological and cultural precinct. In general they would like to focus on locating cultural markers profiling their traditions in the most heavily used areas of the Ranges, such as the gateways to the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area. In some cases, special markers identifying particular sites such as the stone-faced pa at Wainamu could be deployed using pou (carved poles).

29. Te Kawerau a Maki would also like to have the opportunity to use their traditional names for any unnamed streams or other landscape features in the Waitakere Ranges.

Implementation Issues

30. Implementation of the Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan will require support from different parts of council, including ATEED, AT and Watercare Services Ltd. The project governance structure, incorporating a Political Reference Group, a Project Steering Group and a Project Team with wide membership from relevant parts of the Council will assist with the implementation of the plan.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a	VMP History and Context	25
b	WRVMP Parameters	27
c	Outline of public consultations	29
d	Summary of public feedback	31

Signatories

Authors

Jenny MacDonald - Strategic Advisor Waitakere

Authorisers

Penny Pirrit - Regional & Local Planning Manager

Glenn Boyd - Relationship Manager Henderson-Massey, Waitakere Ranges, Whau

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

12 December 2013

Attachment A

Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan History and Context

The Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Act (2008) provides legal context for the development of the Visitor Management Plan. The Act recognises the national, regional and local importance of the Waitakere Ranges and foothills and promotes the protection and enhancement of its heritage features for present and future generations. Two of these features recognise the importance of the area for accessible recreation experiences. The Act also recognises that people living in the Heritage Area must be enabled to provide for their well-being.

Available information tells us that most visitors to the Waitakere Ranges are from West Auckland and the wider Auckland area, with few visitors originating from the rest of New Zealand or overseas. This is partly due to community opposition to promotion to overseas tourists of the Ranges as a tourist destination. For example:

§ In 1995, the former Waitakere City Council prepared a Tourism Strategic Plan which focused visitor activities away from the West Coast Area.

§ In 2000 the council sought to draft a strategy that would enable the City to explore economic opportunities afforded by visitors to the area, with particular focus on the rural eastern foothills, while protecting the high natural and heritage values of the ‘inner ranges’. This draft West Coast Visitor Strategy (by Synchro Consultants) was never ratified by the council, mainly due to:

§ community perceptions that growing the visitor economy was over-emphasised in the draft strategy at the expense of the environment

§ concern over active promotion of the Ranges and the downstream effects of increased visitor numbers, and

§ objection to the potential ‘commodification’ of the features of the Waitakere Ranges.

§ In 2003-04 the former Enterprise Waitakere sought to brand the Waitakere Ranges as the ‘Waitakere Rainforest’ for promotional purposes, a proposal which drew significant community criticism.

§ A proposed joint Visitor Management Strategy for the Waitakere Ranges by the former Auckland Regional and Waitakere City Councils in 2006/2007 failed to progress beyond a Visitor Stocktake report.

Residents within the Ranges have, in the past, voiced concern about the impact of visitors, and particularly the anticipated increases in visitor numbers as Auckland’s population grows. There has been significant local resistance to perceived attempts to seek economic benefit to both the wider and local community through promotion and ‘commodification’ of the Ranges. Local communities have, in general, sought that council efforts be directed solely to management of (mainly Auckland) visitors who arrive in the Heritage Area, avoiding promotion of the area, especially to overseas tourists. Two community groups (the West Coast Plan Liaison Group in 2000 and the Waitakere Ranges Protection Society (WRPS) in 2008) put together alternative visitor plans for the Ranges which avoid promotion of the Ranges as a tourism attraction. The WRPS document suggests development of alternative visitor attractions around the edges of the Heritage Area, such as cultural experiences, events, and farmers markets, to help take the visitor pressure off the natural features of the Ranges.

Further guidance on the view of local residents on visitors comes from a number of sources:

§ Two community plans developed in the 1990s for Karekare and Piha

§ The West Coast Plan (2000), a plan developed over a period of years through a process of consensus and with significant input from the communities west of the main Waitakere Ranges divide and Titirangi

§ Local Area Plans for four of the communities in the Waitakere Ranges - Oratia (2009), Waiatarua (2009), Henderson Valley/Opanuku (2010) and the Muddy Creeks Area of Parau/ Laingholm/ Woodlands Park/ Waima (2013), developed in consultation with the local communities

§ Annual Plan and Long Term Plan submissions

In 2010, just prior to the formation of the Auckland Council, the former Waitakere City Council, seeking to provide some guidance for the Auckland Council, produced a draft West Coast Tourism Strategic Plan covering the Heritage Area and the adjacent western urban areas, which has as an objective ‘to increase the economic, social, cultural and environmental benefits of tourism in West Auckland’. The vision is ‘To showcase and deliver an authentic West Auckland visitor experience that builds on the tourism potential of the area, while enhancing the quality of life for local communities and safeguarding the environment’. This plan identifies that some of the main attractions for visitors are sensitive environmental areas with national significance and protection. It acknowledges that there are various perspectives about the extent and approach to encouraging tourism and the positioning of West Auckland tourism within regional destination promotion. The draft plan notes that this issue may have overshadowed other attractors in West Auckland such as the marine, film, cultural and creative sectors, which are yet to feature significantly in the regional visitor context.

This brief context for visitor management in the Waitakere Ranges highlights the significant tension inherent in visitor management policy:

Protecting the Ranges from any adverse impacts of visitors by minimising marketing efforts and limiting visitor facilities

Maximising the economic benefit/wellbeing of the community by developing and marketing destinations in the Ranges to overseas tourists and visitors from elsewhere in NZ

Relevant post-2010 policy by Auckland Council includes, most significantly, the Auckland Plan (2012) the Auckland Visitor Plan (2011) and the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan (2013).

The Auckland Plan identifies the Waitakere Ranges as part of Auckland’s ‘blue and green environment’, integral to the character, identity and lifestyle of ‘the world’s most liveable city’. The Auckland Plan contains measures to increase the tourist dollar such as

§ ‘Increase the number of annual guest nights in Auckland from 21.1 million in 2010 to 29.5 million by 2022’

§ ‘Develop opportunities to advance Auckland as a gateway and destination for visitors’

§ ‘Increase the value added to the Auckland economy by rural sectors (including …complementary rural enterprises, tourism and visitor experiences in rural areas) by 50% by 2040’.

On the other hand, the Auckland Plan seeks to protect Auckland’s environmental values by ensuring ‘no loss in the area of significant landscape, natural character and natural features’. The Auckland Plan relies on the Auckland Visitor Plan to ‘identify specific investments and interventions that will increase Auckland’s appeal to visitors by enhancing visitor infrastructure and improving Auckland’s amenity’ (paragraph 424).

The Auckland Visitor Plan (December 2011), developed by Auckland Tourism, Events and Economic Development (ATEED), is a ten-year investment and action plan for Auckland’s visitor economy. The Plan outlines Auckland’s present position as essentially a ‘gateway city’ rather than a visitor destination, and notes that it is the portfolio of attractors that draws visitors to the region and compels them to spend more time and money here. This plan identifies native bush and rainforest attractions and eco-tourism experiences as key untapped opportunities in Auckland’s portfolio of potential visitor attractors. The Plan suggests, for example, development and promotion of a great walk or canopy walk in the Waitakere Ranges or the Hunua Ranges as a ‘driver action’ to achieve the strategic goal of developing attractors. The plan also acknowledges the need to consider the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Act and protect the environment that attracts visitors, containing actions such as ‘promote the protection of Auckland’s biodiversity and natural environment’ and ‘support sustainability of natural assets’.

The Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan sets a rural urban boundary which identifies most of the Waitakere Ranges (except Titirangi/Laingholm) as rural and urban-style activity or development as inappropriate. The Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area is an overlay in the Unitary Plan with policies and rules reflecting the national significance of the area.

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

12 December 2013

Attachment D

Proposed Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan Summary of Public Feedback

Introduction

Public engagement on the proposed Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan was undertaken between July and September 2013. The consultation focused on the issues for public consultation approved by the Waitakere Ranges Local Board at their meeting of 23 May 2013 (WTK/2013/92). This paper summarises the feedback received.

Te Kawerau a Maki

A meeting with Te Kawerau a Maki (TKAM), tangata whenua of the Waitakere Ranges, was held on 17 October 2013.

TKAM have long term ambitions for culturally oriented, low to medium scale commercial enterprises in the Waitakere Ranges. The exact nature of these is not yet known, but there would be nothing large-scale. Examples may be accommodation, market gardens or cultural guiding. TKAM would like a generic placeholder statement in the Visitor Management Plan to provide for this. The statement should be general and focused on cultural economic enterprises.

TKAM considers the whole of the Ranges, the great forest of Tiriwa, to be a Site of Significance, and an important ecological and cultural precinct. In terms of cultural markers and interpretation (‘landscapes with a story’), TKAM would like to focus on locating these in the areas of heaviest use / where the most people are. One example is the gateways to the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area.

The unusual stone-faced pa is located at Wainamu. A pou is currently being erected in that vicinity, and interpretation relating to the pa could be included near the pou. There are some places the tribe would not wish to draw attention to, eg Karekare where a massacre took place. Staff were referred to the chapter in the book by the Waitakere Ranges Protection Society, which has approved information on TKAM sites of significance.

TKAM would like to have the opportunity of attaching their traditional names to any unnamed streams or other landscape features in the Ranges.

Ngati Whatua and Pan-tribal groups

Both pan-tribal Māori groups have been approached and have yet to respond.

About the respondents

Generally, the survey respondents were aged over 50 and lived in the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area (WRHA) or West Auckland. Residents and bach owners have a long association with the Ranges (11 years or more) and over half were from Bethells/Te Henga, Piha and Titirangi.

It is fair to say that many individual respondents and representatives of groups also belong in the older age groups and are ‘westies.’

The views of younger age groups (15-40 years), recreational groups, tourism operators and businesses are under-represented. Very few people from the wider Auckland region or overseas took part in the online survey.

Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area - wide issues

The following list of issues synthesises the results of all the feedback received.

Philosophy, values and what’s special

1. Things that are special

There is strong support for protecting and conserving the natural environment, particularly the native bush and beaches. These are valued for their wilderness, remoteness and ruggedness.

Also highly regarded are the rural/mixed use environments and low key communities, especially the coastal settlements. The lack of shops and infrastructure is appreciated.

Peace and quiet, darkness, fresh air and quiet roads (by some people only) were also valued.

2. Favourite places

Overall, the west coast beaches were the most popular places (Bethells, Piha, Karekare). Although Muriwai is outside the WRHA, several people chose this beach as their favourite place. Whatipu was singled out for its remoteness. Many people value the kauri forest and the area’s flora and fauna (Cascades/Kauri noted).

Arataki has a good following, especially because of the loop trails and the Pipeline track (cyclists).

3. Economy v Environment?

The Board’s preferred ‘low key’ approach to providing economic opportunities was tested in the survey and 68% of respondents agreed or strongly agreed with the statement, giving a myriad of reasons. Thus there was support for locating more extensive visitor attractions or accommodation away from the ‘core’ of the Ranges in the eastern foothills or the adjacent suburbs. Those respondents who disagreed with this statement were concerned about economic sustainability as well as environmental sustainability. They cited the lack of viable uses for landowners especially those with large properties and supported the provision of accommodation and other business opportunities near the Hillary Trail and in the Ranges generally.

Overall, comments were thoughtful and balanced, acknowledging the importance of the natural environment whilst also seeing the benefits of creating jobs. Differences of opinion nevertheless remain, contributing to tensions over the extent to which the Ranges should be promoted and visitor-oriented businesses and infrastructure enabled.

About visitors

4. Visitors and their impacts

Only 50% of respondents to the survey said that visitors cause them inconvenience or concerns.

Of those who experience inconvenience or concerns, the two concerns most often mentioned are:

· Traffic/roading/poor driving/carparking issues

· Damage to the environment (Kauri Die-back disease, weeds & pests, faecal contamination of water, overfishing, litter)

Overall, these were common concerns for everyone consulted. Many people gave local examples such as speeding in Shaw Road and inadequate carparking at Piha in summer.

5. Identified hotspots[1]

For each identified hotspot, a significant majority of people said that the natural character of the area is something they liked. Respondents to the surveys not only liked the natural character but wanted it protected.

At Cornwallis, people liked the recreational amenities and activities available (i.e., fishing, kayaking, swimming and picnics).

6. Additional hotspots

There is considerable support for adding Whatipu to the list of hotspots because of its wilderness and remoteness. It is also a popular fishing spot. Other new hotspots suggested are the Foothills and parts or all of the Hillary Trail.

Although Muriwai is not part of the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area, this area was also mentioned as a potential hotspot.

7. Improving the visitor experience

A large number of respondents to this survey question (30) identified accommodation, visitor facilities and development needed to improve the visitor experience. Suggestions included providing more boat ramps, parking and services in support of fishing on the Manukau Harbour, cafes and accommodation (esp. near Hillary Trail), and a playground at Bethells Reserve.

Overall, people said that education, information and better signage would be helpful. Signage, both directive and informative, may increase awareness and help visitors to better appreciate the Ranges’ special qualities.

8. Gateways

There is strong support for ‘marking’ the gateways to the Ranges. Signs, a special pou, special planting and/or a sculptural gateway were all well supported i.e., no one option is favoured.

Providing infrastructure & services

9. Infrastructure

Existing infrastructure fits well with the natural character and landscape of the WRHA according to 79% of survey respondents.

A minority view is that the lack of infrastructure provision is a means of discouraging visitors.

10. Mountain biking & loop tracks

Although it is Council policy not to provide for mountain biking in the Ranges, several people said that this is happening in the Regional Park anyway. Those who are unhappy about this would like the council to enforce its policy whereas others asked for mountain biking to be provided for because it is a long way to Woodhill Forest and other venues.

More loop tracks would be popular with many people, especially those who make day trips into the Ranges.

Management issues

A wide range of issues were raised which can be described as management issues because they are ongoing. The most frequently mentioned issues are described below.

11. Traffic, roading and poor driving behaviour

These problems are common throughout the Ranges and many suggestions for local solutions were put forward, especially requests for more enforcement action and a greater presence by rangers. Some examples of problems are:

· Conflict between cyclists and other users e.g., Scenic Drive, Swanson Rd

· Speeding e.g., Oratia &Henderson Valley

· Lack of footpaths e.g., Bethells

· Long queues in summer e.g., Karekare

· Buses on the Piha Rd

· Poorly designed & unsealed roads

Providing public transport to beaches and to/from tracks is seen as a partial solution to traffic congestion and parking shortages.

12. Damage to the natural environment

This issue was the second most important concern. Water pollution was identified as a problem e.g., Huia Bay, Lake Wainamu, Karekare stream. Other concerns include the risk of spreading KDB disease, inadequate weed & pest control, overfishing and litter.

13. Signage

As noted above, many people think there needs to be more interpretive signage and information at important visitor locations.

The large blue traffic signs at Titirangi and Piha are not liked by some and others thinkg that there too many road signs in general.

Suggestions include providing ‘apps’ and ‘smart signs’ for visitors and working with AT to improve the design and placement of road signage. It was also suggested that local artistic talent should be used to design signs and other infrastructure that fits into natural environment.

14. Carparking

Many people raised carparking issues including:

· Inadequate provision e.g., Lake Wainamu, Fairy Falls

· Parking reaches saturation levels in summer e.g., Bethells, Piha, Karekare

· Need for upgrading e.g., potholes at Bethells Beach, seal the surface at Huia

· Dangerous design e.g., Henderson Valley/Twin Streams

· Lack of security

Solutions proposed included making physical changes but more importantly, local residents would like better management in summer e.g., a greater presence by rangers.

15. Need for more toilets and bins

Although many people consider there is a need for more toilets and bins, there was a strong minority feeling that providing more facilities would compromise the natural character of the Ranges. The new toilets at Kakamatua beach are almost too successful.

Those who seek more toilets also said that they need to be in the right place e.g., along the Hillary Trail.

Regular maintenance of toilets and emptying of bins is requested especially in summer.

16. Dogs

Opinions about dogs were fairly well divided. Overall, it was felt that there is a shortage of places in the Ranges where dogs are allowed, particularly off-leash. Another concern is that dogs are found in areas where they shouldn’t be e.g at Lake Wainamu and on the southern part of Bethells Beach. Piha and Bethells residents like the fact that the dogs can run free but also notice that owners do not always keep dogs under control. More enforcement and education are seen as solutions. One person said that a region-wide approach to providing for dogs is needed.

Place-based issues

There are many suggestions addressing local circumstances and one or two examples for each locality are provided below by way of illustration. A full list of comments/suggestions has been compiled and included in the consultation record.

1. Manukau Harbour – coastal settlements

· Upgrade the boat ramp at Little Huia

· Open up the Dam Rd to vehicles

2. Titirangi/Waiatarua

· Promote the markets because they’re a great asset to the community

· Cyclists on Scenic Drive are a concern – build a separate path/widen road?

3. Bethells/Te Henga

· In summer, carparking at the beach and Lake Wainamu needs better management e.g., appoint a summer ranger, involve locals

· Weed & pest control has fallen behind under the new Council

4. Swanson

· No train service on Sunday - potential to provide public transport to the dams, Forest & Bird property and Bethells Beach when this service is available

5. Henderson Valley

· Speeding vehicles – more enforcement required

6. Oratia

· We don’t know who’s a visitor because so many people are passing through

· High traffic volumes and speeding are a problem

7. Piha

· Dogs on the beach when they shouldn’t be – more enforcement

· Traffic & parking issues need management especially in summer

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

12 December 2013

Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area - Six Monthly Report

File No.: CP2013/26018

Purpose

1. This report is for information purposes and provides an update on activities in progress across Council which are contributing to the achievement of the objectives of the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act 2008.

Executive Summary

2. The implementation of the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act 2008 (‘the Act’) is being undertaken by a variety of Council units across the range of objectives set out in the Act. These objectives are summarized in Attachment A. This report follows the resolution of the March 2012 meeting of the Regional Development and Operations Committee (RDOC) which recognized the importance of the programme of work being undertaken to implement the Act and requested that six monthly progress updates be prepared for the Waitakere Ranges Local Board and RDOC.

3. The background to the programme and a general summary of progress is provided in the main body of the report, with further details provided in Attachment B. Attachment B describes work completed in the last financial year and actions for this financial year across the range of activities and projects identified.

Recommendation/s

That the Waitakere Ranges Local Board:

a) Receives the report.

b) Conveys any comments on the report or its contents to the Regional Strategy and Policy Committee for consideration.

Discussion

4. The Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area (WRHA) covers an area of approximately 27,770 hectares which encompasses the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. The Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act 2008 recognises the national, regional and local significance of the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area, and promotes the protection and enhancement of its natural, cultural and historic heritage features for present and future generations.

5. The Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Programme (“the Programme”) comprises all council-wide activities which contribute to the purposes of the Act, including ‘business as usual’ activities and projects specifically established under the Act. At its March 2012 meeting, the Regional Development and Operations Committee endorsed the Programme as a key initiative and resolved that officers should report on overall progress on a six-monthly basis to the Waitākere Ranges Local Board and Regional Development and Operations Committee.

6. An officer-level Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Programme Co-ordination Group (WRPCG) has been established to provide for exchange of information and to ensure that the relevant work streams and activities are co-ordinated and aligned. The WRPCG also provides a mechanism for prioritisation, monitoring and reporting progress that contributes to achieving the purpose and objectives of the Act.

7. Strict adherence to the six-monthly reporting cycle has not been possible due to the need to present a five-year monitoring report under the Act earlier this year, and the timetabling of Council meetings around the election. To compensate for this the current report covers the period back to July 2012. Following the recent changes to Council’s Committees structure, reporting will now be to the Regional Strategy and Policy Committee.

8. The attached summary table (Attachment B) provides a synopsis of progress on projects and activities for the 2012/2013 financial year and a look ahead to the opportunities and challenges and intended progress through the 2013/2014 financial year. Projects and activities have been grouped under topic headings which align with the WRHA’s heritage features and management objectives. These are:

· Planning and Communication– planning for, communicating about and implementation of the Act as a whole;

· Landscape - activities aimed at protecting and enhancing the characteristic landscape of the foothills, rural and forested areas and coast;

· Development and Consent Activity – management of subdivision and development within the context of the Resource Management Act, Reserves Act and Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act, which requires unitary, regional and district plans to give effect to the Act.

· Ecosystems and Ecosystem Services – protection, restoration and enhancement of ecosystems by both Council and community.

· Cultural and Built Heritage – this relates to both pre-and post-European settlement, including the relationships between tangata whenua and the heritage area, and the history of kauri milling and horticulture and viticulture;

· Recreation Opportunities and Visitor Management - provision of facilities and services for enjoyment and appreciation of these heritage features, and management of visitor pressures and impacts.

9. Key points and highlights

· The first five year monitoring report has enabled a comprehensive stock take to be made of progress towards achieving the objectives of the Act and provides a stronger basis for future strategic planning and monitoring. The monitoring report has identified knowledge gaps in some areas which will need to be addressed before the next five year report.

· Auckland Transport are preparing design and management guidance to address concerns relating to the landscape, ecological and amenity impact of activities in the road corridor.

· The Proposed Unitary Plan incorporates specific provisions which give effect to the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act.

· Kauri Die-back continues to be most significant threat to the WRHA and management initiatives to limit its spread are being extended.

· Community initiatives to protect and restore native ecosystems continue to grow and are providing biodiversity, social and amenity benefits. Resourcing issues will need to be addressed if the Council is to support the demand for continued growth. Initiatives are also being developed to improve integration across Council-supported programmes.

· Progress is being made on the preparation of a visitor management plan and the development of new recreational opportunities and facilities both inside and outside of the Regional Park.

Consideration

Local Board Views

10. This report is being brought to the Waitākere Ranges Local Board for consideration, and will form the basis for a report to a subsequent meeting of the Regional Strategy and Policy Committe (date to be advised). Any comments or resolutions from the Waitākere Ranges Local Board will be included or referred to in the report to the Regional Strategy and Policy Committee.

Maori Impact Statement

11. Te Kawerau a Maki, Ngāti Whātua Nga Rima o Kaipara and Ngāti Whātua o Orakei have not been consulted specifically on this report. However regular consultation and engagement takes place on a range of individual projects and activities described in this report, and on matters of mutual interest in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. Development of processes which support stronger engagement of tangata whenua in decision-making in the heritage area is identified as a key workstream in the Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area.

General

12. The report is part of a continuing process to implement the WRHA Act and to evaluate progress being made to achieve the objectives of the Act. It is consistent with the priorities of the Waitākere Ranges Local Board (as expressed through the Local Board Plan), and does not trigger the Significance Policy. This report is for Council reporting purposes and has not therefore been subject to a wider consultation process.

There are no immediate financial or reporting implications. Any legislative or legal implications are considered and managed separately through the individual activities and projects concerned.

Implementation Issues

13. There are no direct implementation issues.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a	Summary of Objectives - Waitākere Ranges Heritage Area Act, 2008.	39
b	Summary Table of Workstreams, Projects and Progress	41

Signatories

Authors

Julian Watts - Principal Planner

Authorisers

Penny Pirrit - Regional & Local Planning Manager

Glenn Boyd - Relationship Manager Henderson-Massey, Waitakere Ranges, Whau

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

12 December 2013

ATTACHMENT B

Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Programme

Summary table of workstreams, projects and progress.

Topic/Workstream	Project/Activity	Lead Council Unit(s)	Description/ Outcomes Sought	Progress July 2012 -June 2013	Expected Progress and Challenges July 2013 – July 2014
PLANNING & COMMUNICATION
Co-ordination	WRHA Programme Co-ordination Group	North West Planning	Cross-Council group established to promote the objectives of the Act and develop an integrated approach to its implementation.	The group met quarterly and provided a useful forum for exchange of information and informal discussion on key issues.	Continuing. There are opportunities for the group to develop a stronger and more proactive role in integrating activities across Council and with CCOs.
LOCAL AREA PLANS	Preparation of a Local Area Plan for Parau, Laingholm, Woodlands Park and Waima (the “Muddy Creeks Plan”)	North West Planning	Preparation of a Local Area Plan (LAP) under the WRHA Act.	Decision to proceed with LAP by WR Local Board in September 2012. Background information collected and collated, community and iwi engagement undertaken, LAP provisions drafted with relevant Council units. WR Local Board decided to notify the Draft LAP in June 13.	Public notification of the draft LAP July-Aug 2013. Analysis and reporting on submissions, final draft LAP to be presented to the Local Board for adoption in October 2013. Final LAP to be presented to relevant Council committee before end 2013 for approval.
	Preparation of a Local Area Plan for Bethells Beach/Te Henga and the Waitakere Valley	North West Planning	Preparation of a Local Area Plan (LAP) under the WRHA Act.	Engagement with iwi to determine their availability to participate in a LAP during 2013/14.	Decision by WR Local Board to proceed with the LAP. Preparation of background report. Engagement with iwi and community. Drafting of LAP provisions with relevant Council units.
MONITORING	Preparation of first 5 Year Monitoring Report	North West Planning	Report on State of Environment for the Heritage Area and progress towards achieving the objectives of the WRHA Act. Required under Section 34 of the Act.	Report prepared with cross-council participation and Local Board support. Adopted by Council in June 2013.	Implementation of recommendations through work programmes and 2013-2018 Monitoring Programme
	Establishment of Monitoring Programme for 2013-2018	Research, Investigations & Monitoring Unit (RIMU)	To set up and implement a monitoring framework and programme for the next five year Monitoring Report, including data capture, storage and analysis requirements.		Outline Programme with indicative priorities and resourcing implications by December 2013.. Informal consultation with Waitakere Ranges Local Board early 2014.
	Progress Reporting (Local Board RDOC/ RSPC)	Co-ordinated by North West Planning	6 monthly reporting to Waitakere Ranges Local Board and RDOC/RSPC on cross-Council activities being undertaken to achieve the objectives of the WRHA Act Due October/November and April/May.	First six –monthly report received by Local Board and RDOC on September/October 2012. Second report deferred pending preparation of 5 year report and Council elections.	Reports to Local Board and Governing Body in December 2013 and June/July 2014.
	West Coast Plan Audit	Community Policy & Planning/ North West Planning	Audit of implementation of the West Coast Plan, a non statutory plan covering most of the Heritage Area which was prepared in 2001	New project for 2013/14	Report to WRHA PCG and Local Board for consideration of implications and any further actions required.
COMMUNICATION	`Web site establishment	North West Planning	To re-establish a web page or pages for the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area within the Auckland Council website.	New project for 2013/14	Review requirements and options and action preferred approach.
EDUCATION	Learning Though Experience	Regional Parks (West)	To promote awareness and understanding of natural and cultural heritage features of the Waitakere Ranges amongst school children,	6111 students participated in the programme, led by Council staff at Arataki and Cascade Kauri. Additionally 2144 students participated in self guided LTE activities (information provided by Council staff prior) in the Waitakere Ranges.	Ongoing programme
LAND ACQUISITION	Land Acquisition	Regional Parks	Additional land acquired or vested as regional parkland	2.2 ha.private land at Parau vested with council and several small pieces of adjoin local parks transferred to regional park management.	Ongoing
SUPPORT FOR HERITAGE PROTECTION	Development of heritage incentives policy	Heritage	Development of a policy identifying most appropriate mechanisms for incentivising good heritage (natural and historic) management	Initial scoping only	Policy development ready for political input – possibly reflected in LTP refresh
Landscape
GUIDANCE	Road Corridor Design and Management Guide (AT)	Auckland Transport	To provide clearer guidance on how the objectives and requirements of the WRHA Act are to be given effect in the design and management of road corridor. infrastructure and vegetation.	New project for 2013/14	Draft Guide by end of 2013. Consultation with Local Board early in 2014. Finalisation by end of 2013/14 financial year.
	Promotion of Foothills Design Guide	North West Planning	Re-printing and re-launch of Foothills Design Guide and training/awareness raising for Council consents staff.	New project for 2013/14	Completion in 2013/14 financial year.
	Consultation with LB on the design of significant projects in the Regional Park	Regional Parks	To ensure that development proposals are appropriate to their setting	New initiative for 2013/14	Consultation with Local Board to be integrated with the wider LB engagement framework.
MANAGEMENT	Anawhata land management	Regional Parks	Maintenance of the natural character of the coastal areas	Auckland University passed over the management of a coastal block of land in Anawhata to Regional Parks.	Management / maintenance of the block
RESEARCH	Promoting economic uses for Foothills heritage landscapes	North West Planning	This project aims to identify trends and driving forces for changes to traditional land uses (viticulture orcharding and other horticulture)., and the potential for Council to positively influence future changes consistent with the Act.	New project for 2013/14	Research and consult with landowners and community and report to Local Board
DEVELOPMENT AND CONSENT ACTIVITY
sTATUTORY PLANNING (RMA)	Unitary Plan – protection of heritage features and environmental quality.	Heritage (Natural)	Identification and protection of significant ecological areas and outstanding natural features. Vegetation Management provisions	Development for inclusion in notified Unitary Plan	Unitary Plan notified. and will progress through submissions and further submissions process this financial year.
	Other unitary plan topics including WRHA provisions	Unitary Plan team	Ensuring that the Unitary Plan give proper effect to the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area Act, 2008 (as required under the Act).	Incorporation of Heritage Area Precinct in Proposed Unitary Plan (as notified), based on provisions of Legacy District Plan (Waitakere Section)	Refinements and amendments as through submissions process as appropriate.
	Plan Change 36	North West Planning	To provide for small home-based business to operate consistently with the WRHA Act.		Plan Change became Operative in in October 2013.
EcosystemS & ECOSYSTEM SERVICES
MONITORING	Terrestrial Biodiversity Monitoring Programme	Research, Investigations & Monitoring Unit (RIMU)	Part of the regional Terrestrial Biodiversity Monitoring Programme designed to quantify the state of indigenous terrestrial biodiversity and monitor changes in pattern and processes through time, linked to management decision making.	9 forest plots surveyed – 38 total surveyed in Heritage Area to date. 2 wetlands plots surveyed – 20 surveyed in Heritage Area to date.	14 forest plots to be surveyed – will total 52 forest plots surveyed in Heritage Area for full 5 year programme. 17 wetland plots to be surveyed – will total 37 forest plots surveyed in Heritage Area for full 5 year programme. Initial baseline measures to be completed by April 2014. Results to be provided in annual data reports as well as annual Waitakere Report Card.
	Freshwater Monitoring Programme	Research, Investigations & Monitoring Unit (RIMU)	Part of regional Freshwater Monitoring Programme that underpins state of the environment reporting, and informs Council decision making. Results from these programmes are reported in annual data reports, as well as direct data uploads to our website, and also via an annual Waitakere Report Card.	Within the Heritage Area there are five Stream Ecological Valuation (SEV) sites, two stream water quality sites, two lake ecological quality sites at Wainamu & Kawaupaku lakes, 1 ground water site (7 Waitakere Road), and native fish monitoring in five streams sites. All sites surveyed except fish and Kawaupaku lake monitoring programmes.	All sites to be surveyed with the exception of the groundwater, fish and lake monitoring programmes which are currently in review and hence these survey dates are still to be finalised. Results to be provided in annual data reports as well as annual Waitakere Report Card.
ANIMAL PEST MANAGEMENT	Animal Pest Control	Regional Parks and Biosecurity	Ongoing programmes targeting the control of rabbits, mustelids, rats, possums and pigs		Ongoing
	Rabbit Control - Piha	Local & Sports Parks (West)	Protect ecological and amenity values		New methodology has enabled rabbit control in dune network to began Oct-Nov 2013
Kauri Dieback	Kauri Dieback Management	ESU/Biosecurity (Regional) and Regional Parks (West)	Prevent spread of kauri dieback disease by implementing phytosanitary measures, outreach and compliance programmes, and research and monitoring programmes. All of the Regional Park is included, together with all private land in the WRHA containing kauri.	13 disease-free areas closed for kauri protection. This has resulted in the need to close 15 tracks Monitoring disease spread and kauri health throughout the WRHA, provision of phytosanitary supplies & signage to Regional Parks and landowners, conduct research on all relevant matters, educational programmes for the community 114 Trigene stations have been maintained on the track network to provide hygiene measures to help restrict the spread of Kauri Die Back disease. This is an ongoing programme of work	A further closure of the Lower Kauri Track in the Cascade area so that monitoring of an affected area can occur. Opening up parts of previously closed tracks where the risk of infection is low due to lack of Kauri. Further education to areas of high non-compliance with existing closures.
	Kauri Dieback Management	Local & Sports Parks	Assisting in prevent the spread of Kauri Die Back within/from Local & Sports Parks		The disease has been found in several LSP parks and the team is working with Biosecurity team to install trigene stations. Contractors are briefed on expectations to prevent disease spreading, in their daily business. Contracts include requirements.
WEED MANAGEMENT	Development of weed management policy	Community Planning and Policy - Regional	Develop a weed management policy to guide internal and external parties working on Council land (including road corridors)[CHECK SCOPE]	Draft prepared	Adopted by Council August 2013
	Undertaking a weed management operational review	Community Planning and Policy - Regional	To report on all operations which involve weed management, to set baseline levels of service and to make recommendations for operational practices to meet the objectives of the Weed Management Policy		Report in draft at September 2013. Additions required before going out to consultation with Local Boards and other interested parties.
	Weed Management	Regional Parks and BioSecurity	Weed monitoring/surveillance.	Weed surveys undertaken throughout the Waitakere Ranges. Working with BioSecurity so that work on regional park land can tie in with adjacent private properties through the SWI programme.	Ongoing
	Creation of Weed Free buffer zone	ESU/Local Environmental Programmes	Continuation/expansion of weed free buffer concept and habitat restoration n LAP areas on eastern edge of Regional Park. (including private land)	Continuation of work from last year’s successful pilot which focussed on 3 ‘hot spots’ in the buffer zone adjacent to the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park,.	Follow up work in the three hotspots, including establishment of Sustainable Neighbourhood programmes in 2 of them. Identification of 2 new ‘hot spots’ within the buffer zone (Upper Opanuku Valley and Bush Road) and implementing the same approach as last year to establish contacts and initiate/facilitate landowner/community action.
	Sustainable Neighbourhoods Programme	ESU/Local Environmental Programmes	Support to Neighbourhoods wishing to take action for ecological restoration of their local landscape	Continuing work with around 34 neighbourhoods in the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area.. 6,000 local eco-sourced native plants were planted, and around 200 weed bags, 35 ginger barrels and 130 large volume Weed Bins were utilised (especially in the Piha, Te Henga, and Titirangi areas). Facilitation services for the project delivered through Not For Profit community organisations. Assisted by ESU/Biosecurity, the Sustainable Neighbourhoods Team established 2 new groups at Laingholm.	Neighbourhoods’ progress currently being audited, this has so far revealed good level of community leadership and ecological restoration. Two new neighbourhoods are to be established as a result of the consolidation of two ‘Hotspots’ from the Bufferzone project Opportunities to develop closer collaboration with Local and Sports Parks and Regional Parks and Watercare; other new actions are likely to arise from the audit/evaluation process. Budget constraints for community weed bins for 2013/14 presents a challenge. Unless picked up by another budget, the level of service may have to be reduced.
	Pest plant control programme	Local and Sports Parks (West)	Control containment pest plant populations in approx. 400 parks and reserves and control all pest plants in a further 110 parks.		This programme began 1999 and has expanded to its current extent. Parks are visited once or twice per year for pest plant control.
	Les Waygood Reserve Weed Control Plan	Local and Sports Parks (West)	Project to manage weed species growing in dune network of Les Waygood Park and North Piha Esplanade		Piha Weed Management Plan is adopted by LB in Oct 2013. Work to control outliers will be undertaken during summer/autumn 2014. A 2 – 5 year work programme will be provided to interested parties for feedback during the coming summer.
	Piha South Road Reserve Dune Management Plan (South of Lion Rock)	Local and Sports Parks (West)	Ecological restoration and recreation management		Piha Weed Management Plan is adopted by LB in Oct 2013. Work to control outliers will be undertaken during summer/autumn 2014. A 2 – 5 year work programme will be provided to interested parties for feedback during the coming summer.
HABITAT RESTORATION	Revegetation (Regional Park)	Regional Parks	Revegetation of modified/disturbed habitat the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park.	Draft revegetation plans have for the 2015-17 season have been prepared.	Plans approved
	Community Revegetation Projects (Regional Park)	Regional Parks (West)	Biodiversity protection and restoration	Arataki-based- Re-vegetation programme continues with 8,000 plants produced in the nursery at Arataki and a number of volunteer planting days held. Schools' revegetation projects - Revegetation planting work has been undertaken by five local schools. Approximately 5600 plants were planted at Pae O Te Rangi in the northern part of the ranges and at Whatipu.	Continuing
	Native restoration programme	Local & Sports Parks	Restoration of native ecosystems		Ongoing
	Habitat Management Programme (for LAP areas)	North West Planning, Biodiversity Operations, Local Environmental Partnerships, Biosecurity.	To identify and prioritise areas for habitat restoration and enhancement in the approved LAP areas over the next 3-5 years. To improve integration between Council units and communities.	New project for 2013/14	Assemble information on habitat values, threats, current management Workshop with internal stakeholders, Local Board and communitiy stewardship groups to identify future opportunities and priorities.. Identify resource implications for 2014/15 and beyond. Report to Local Board/Council.
FAUNA SPECIES CONSERVATION	Ark in the Park	Regional Parks (West) & ESU/Biosecurity (Regional)	Iconic partnership project (with Royal Forest & Bird Protection Society and local communities) to deliver enhanced ecological protection and an open sanctuary for threatened species (including re-introduction of locally extinct species). Based in the Cascade/ Falls Road area	In April a further 100 whitehead were released into the park, this brings the total to 353. Kokako survey work continues to identify pairs, territories and nests. Rat densities are kept at or below 5%	Further translocations are planned.
	Community biodiversity projects	Regional Parks (West)	Biodiversity protection and restoration	Ecological protection and restoration projects continue to be supported, namely, · Whatipu Shorebird Protection Project supported by the Friend of Whatipu, · Te Waha Point pest control programme to help protect land nesting Grey Faced Petrels on Te Waha Point at Piha. · Karekare land care group continues to be supported, · Arataki Gateway Project aimed at significantly reducing pest animal presence in and around Arataki and the Nature Trail undertaken by volunteers continues. · Re-vegetation programme continues with 8,000 plants produced in the nursery at Arataki and a number of volunteer planting days held.	Continuing
	Community Pest Control	Local & Sports Parks (west)	Reduce animal pest numbers in parks and reserves	Ongoing animal pest control in our parks in the Swanson area and in the back dune of Te Henga Park	Continuing
	Long tailed bat conservation work.	Biodiversity Operations	To improve knowledge and understanding of long tailed bat distribution and behaviour. To raise public and landowner awareness of and their management requirements. The WRHA is a regional stronghold for this threatened species.	Programme of research and public awareness raising including ‘Bat Fun Day’ at Swanson.	Further research to identify the location of roost sites within ‘known’ areas and the relationship between habitat type and bat usage and behaviour.
CULTURAL AND BUILT HERITAGE
TANGATA WHENUA	Engagement with Tangata Whenua	North West Planning in association with Te Waka Angamua	To develop Deeds of Acknowledgement. and identify and implement opportunities for promoting kaitiakitanga and other means by which Council can better meet its obligations under the Act .	New project for 2013/14	Establish internal working group and present options/proposals for discussion with LB and Mana Whenua
	Te Henga Marae	Community Policy and Planning (West)	Agree the conditions of a lease to Te Kawerau Tribal Authority over council reserve land at 240 Bethells Rd, Te Henga, for the purposes of construction of a marae and papakainga by Te Kawerau a Maki.	Meeting with TKAM, Report to Waitakere Ranges Local Board	Lease agreement signed.
	Pou installation and maintenance	Regional Parks	To strengthen and re-establish connections between Tangata Whenua and the WRHA and surrounding landscape. The project was instigated many years ago by Friends the Arataki who have provided the funding for the project.	Te Kawerau A Maki have undertaken maintenance work on the various Pou that have been installed in and around the Waitakere Ranges.	Work continues to install the last of 10 Pou throughout the Waitakere Ranges Regional Park. Pou installation and maintenance – The last Pou will be installed at Lake Wainamu in 2014 and will complete the project.
INTERPRETATION	Documentation of Oratia’s heritage and enhancement of Oratia Village’s public open spaces	North West Planning	Implementation of Oratia LAP actions	Preparation of a historical thematic study of Oratia. Community engagement for the preparation of a masterplan for Oratia village.	Publish the historical thematic study. Continue community engagement on the Oratia Village masterplan and present the draft to the WR Local Board. Plan the implementation of works in the masterplan with relevant Council, AT and Watercare units.
RESTORATION	Rose Hellaby House	Heritage	Restoration and maintenance of Rose Hellaby House.	Rose Hellaby House re-roof, exterior repaint and re-wiring	Painting using heritage colour scheme to be completed this financial year
RECREATION & VISITOR MANAGEMENT
PLANNING	Waitakere Ranges Visitor Management Plan	Community Policy and Planning (West)	An integrated framework for the management of visitors and recreation in the Waitakere Ranges Heritage Area, which will seek a quality experience for visitors while protecting heritage features and at the same time recognising the role visitors can play in social and economic wellbeing in the Ranges.	Parameters/framework of the Plan agreed with the Local Board. Governance structures set up including a Political Reference Group with membership from the governing body and Te Kawerau a Maki.	Public consultation undertaken and reported. Draft Plan prepared and approved by the Local Board for public and iwi consultation. Consultation on the draft plan. Local Board approval of final plan.
VISITOR MANAGEMENT	Vehicle counts	Regional Parks	To assist informed decision making	Monthly vehicle counts at selected entrances to the regional parkland	Ongoing
	Track counts	Regional Parks	To assist informed decision making	Monthly pedestrian counts on selected regional parkland tracks	Ongoing
DEVELOPMENT OF FACILITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES	Track maintenance and upgrades (Regional Park)	Regional Parks	To provide a range of appropriate recreational opportunities.	Tracks continue to be maintained with a strong focus on minimising impact on root systems as well as reducing the risk of continued spread of Kauri Die Back via the track network. The Hamilton Track and Fenceline Track renewals were completed.	Ongoing maintenance of the 260 km track system continues.
	Hillary Trail	Regional Parks	To provide a range of appropriate recreational opportunities.	Growing popularity noted in the trail especially around the use by schools, adventure groups and trail runners, and a growing engagement with social media (Facebook). Good progress with infrastructure improvement in Hamilton Track (muddy sections) and safety chain handrails on the Hamiltons, Omanawanui and Muir Tracks.	Progressing options for additional overnight camping at Te Henga.
	Arataki Aerial Walkway	Regional Parks (West)	To provide a range of appropriate recreational opportunities.	Design work for a potential aerial walkway off the nature Trail at the Arataki Visitor Centre was completed. This was the scoping phase of the walkway with funding plans still needing to be developed and a decision to continue or not continue the project yet to be made.	Formation of a broader project team to develop project plan and funding options
	Kakamatua Toilet	Regional Parks (West)	New recreational facility construction	A toilet was installed at Kakamatua. The location has increased in popularity largely due to the allowance of off lead dog walking. There was previously no toilet at this location and the installed toilet is a simple sealed composting vault.	N/A
	Waitakere Ranges Foothills Walkway	Community Policy and Planning (West)	A walkway across the rural eastern foothills of the Waitakere Ranges from the Swanson Railway Station in the north to the Arataki Visitor Centre and Titirangi in the south.	Project handed to ACPL to negotiate easements over land along the Anamata Stream to provide a link from the proposed walkway between Forest Hill and Henderson Valley Road, through to connect with the Project Twin Streams walkway along the Opanuku Stream.	Easements completed.
	Swanson Walkway	Community Policy and Planning (West)	Construction of a section of the Foothills Walkway from Candia Road, south through Coulter Rd, Perris Road (unformed) Seibel Reserve, Seibel Road and Vineyard Road.	Geographic survey of the route undertaken by consultants.	Public engagement programme undertaken. Detailed engineering design completed. Resource consents lodged and approved. Section through Seibel Reserve constructed. Remainder to be constructed in the 2014/15 year.

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

12 December 2013

Record of Workshop –

Waitakere Ranges Local Board

Date: Wednesday 21 November 2013

Time: 9.30am – 12.30pm

Venue: Waitakere Ranges Local Board Office

PRESENT:

Members Sandra Coney, QSO

Neil Henderson

Saffron Toms

Steve Tollestrup

Apologies Denise Yates, JP

Greg Presland (for lateness)

MATTERS DISCUSSED:

Item

Presenter

1.0

Waitakere Ranges Visitors Management Plan

§ Update on the project including timelines, processes , community engagement with stakeholders

§ Discussion held around references currently in the draft Plan

§ Background report tabled and discussed, noted there are many areas of Council involved in this project e.g. AT, ATEED and Watercare

§ Discussion of the Political Reference Group

§ Further community consultation dates/timelines discussed and noted

9.30am – 11am

Jenny MacDonald

Jan Crawford

2.0

Auckland Transport Guidelines

§ Outline of guidelines and background to members

§ Noted by AT that the design of Infrastructure within the road corridor is not an operational guide

§ Members were asked for their feedback on the guidelines, timelines and consultation outlined

§ Noted the guidelines will come back to a workshop on 12 December

Auckland Transport Maintenance

§ Vegetation Management Policy outlined and discussed with members

§ Noted Auckland Council owns the land and AT manages the weeds

§ Noted AT needs to be clearer about weed management and who is responsible for what in the road corridor, specific issue of climbing asparagus in Scenic Drive raised and discussed

§ Members asked for further clarity around tree scheduling and consents

11.15am – 11.45pm

Rob Douglas-Jones

11.45pm – 12.30pm

Erle Benich

3.0

4.0

Glen Eden Urban Design

§ Updated members on the Glen Eden Urban Design Framework and outlined the 4 key elements to link West Coast Rd with Glenmall Place, noting Glen Eden has been identified as a Town Centre

§ The next step in the process is for the Board to advocate for funding through the Long Term Plan

§ Members discussed the current state of Glen Eden and noted their desire to work with the BID to improve appearance

§ Members asked to meet with Council Economic staff to see what can be done to support the Glen Eden BID to clean up the place

Unitary Plan

§ Eryn Shields in attendance to give a brief overview of the submission process for the Unitary Plan

§ Members discussed their views as to whether they should put in a submission on behalf of the Board, noted the Chair is currently obtaining a legal opinion around this

§ Members agreed in principle that they defend their right to make a Board submission

12.30pm – 1.15pm

Claire Liousse

1.15pm – 1.30pm

Eryn Shields

5.0

Kauri Dieback

§ Update to members on this issue

2pm – 3pm

Jack Craw

6.0

Local Board Agreement

§ Finalising board input to draft Local Board Agreement

§ Introduction given to members on the Local Board Plan

2pm – 3pm

Glenn Boyd

7.0

Board only session

§ Members only time

4pm - 5pm

Board members

[1] Piha, Karekare, Bethells/Te Henga beaches, Arataki visitor centre, Lake Wainamu, Glen Esk at Piha, Cascade/Kauri Park and Cornwallis.

Consultation Event	Response	Date (2013)
Questionnaire surveys
Local Board’s facebook page & Online q’aire survey	70 responses	29 Aug–30 Sept
Hard copy questionnaires	10 responses	20 Aug–30 Sept
Piha Beach survey	23 respondees	March 2013
Bethells Beach survey	54 respondees	February-March
Public Workshops (6)
Huia/Little Huia/Cornwallis/Whatipu	20 attendees	20 August
Titirangi/Waiatarua/Woodlands Park/Parau	11 attendees	26 August
Bethells/Te Henga/Scenic Drive North/Waitakere Township	33 attendees	31 August
Henderson Valley/Swanson	3 attendees	3 September
Oratia	11 attendees	17 September
Piha/Karekare/Anawhata	12 attendees	21 September
Maori
Tangata Whenua -Te Kawerau a Maki	Meeting	17 October
Tangata Whenua - Ngati Whatua	Awaiting response
Market ‘Open Days’
Titirangi,	Numerous	28 July
Swanson		1 September
Oratia		7 September
One on one conversations
Interviews/telephone	7	Aug/ Sept
Individual contact - Written feedback supplied	8	Aug/ Sept
Follow up key groups who did not provide feedback e.g., recreational users such as tramping clubs	8	Ongoing
Other
Emails to all relevant groups on the community directory		July-September
Sign boards advertising public workshops & web page		Prior to workshops
Notices in local school newsletters – Oratia, Henderson Valley and Waitakere		August
Flyers available at libraries & markets and also delivered in Huia area		August
Presentation to Henderson Valley Residents Association		17 July
Presentation to combined Ratepayers Group		19 August
Presentation to Titirangi Ratepayers Association		27 August
Research
Results of earlier consultations
Plan changes 104 & 169, 1975-1981
The West Coast Plan 2000
NZ Herald articles generated by the project
o Wild West opening up to tourism opportunities o Waitakere Ranges Protection Society’s 40th birthday o A range of opinions NZ Herald		July 11 July 11 September 14

Section of the Act	Topic/theme
	general
8(a) 8(b) 8(c) 8(d) 8(g)	- To protect, restore and enhance the heritage features ; - To ensure that impacts on the area as a whole are considered when decisions are made affecting any part of the area ; - To adopt a risk management approach and endeavour to protect the heritage feature when considering decisions that threaten serious or irreversible harm to a heritage feature ; - To recognise and avoid adverse potential, or adverse cumulative, effects of activities on the environment (including its amenity) or its heritage features ; - To maintain the quality and diversity of landscapes in the area by protecting landscapes of significance, restoring and enhancing degraded landscapes, and through the integrated management of change within a landscape.
Landscape
7.2(i) 7.2(i)(i) 7.2(i) (ii) 7.2(i) (iii) 7.2(l) 7.2(c) 7.2(h) 7.2(f) 7.2(e)	- To protect, restore and enhance all of the following: · The subservience of the built environment to the natural and rural landscape, reflected in i) the individual identity and character of the coastal villages and their distinctive scale, containment, intensity and amenity ; ii) the distinctive harmony, pleasantness, and coherence of the low-density residential and urban areas that are located in regenerating (and increasingly dominant) forest settings [bush living landscapes]; iii) the rural character of the foothills to the east and north and their intricate pattern of farmland, orchards, vineyards, uncultivated areas, indigenous vegetation, and dispersed low-density settlement with few urban-scale activities ; · The distinctive local communities; · The coastal areas – their dynamic/natural character, contribution to vistas, and significant their differences · The eastern foothills as a buffer to, and transition from, metropolitan Auckland; · The Ranges and foothills as the visual backdrop to metropolitan Auckland · The quietness and darkness of the Ranges and the coast .
	Development and Consenting Activity
8(e) 8(f)	- To recognise that the area has little capacity to absorb further subdivision ; - To avoid adverse effects, including cumulative effects, of subdivision or development in the area, not to contribute to urban sprawl;
8(j)	- To provide for future uses of rural land in order to retain a rural character in the area;
Ecosystems and ecosystem services
7 .2(a), (b),(d) 8(h)	- To protect, restore and enhance the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, natural landforms and landscapes and the natural functioning of streams; - To manage aquatic and terrestrial systems in the area to protect and enhance indigenous habitat values, landscape values and amenity values;
7.2(n) 8(h)	- To protect, restore and enhance the operation, maintenance and development of the public water catchment and supply system; - To protect those features of the area that relate to its water catchment and supply functions ;
Cultural & built heritage
7.2(k)	- To protect, restore and enhance evidence of part human activities;
Recreation & visitor management
7.2(g)	- To protect, restore and enhance the opportunities that the area provides for wilderness experiences, recreation, and relaxation.
People and Communities
8(i) 7.2(k)	- To recognise that people live and work in the area in distinct communities and enabling those people to provide for their social, economic, environmental and cultural well-being. - To protect, restore and enhance the historic, traditional and cultural relationships of people, communities and tangata whenua with the area and their exercise of kaitiakitanga and stewardship.
waitākere ranges regional park (included within all topics)
7.2(m) 8(l)	- To protect, restore and enhance the values of the Waitākere Ranges regional park, and its accessibility; - To protect in perpetuity, the natural and historic resources of the Waitākere Ranges regional park for their intrinsic worth and for the benefit, use, and enjoyment of the people and communities of the Auckland region and New Zealand.

No.	Title	Page
a	Waitakere Ranges Local Board Workshop Records - 7 November 2013	71
b	Waitakere Ranges Local Board Workshop Records - 14 November 2013	73
c	Waitakere Ranges Local Board Workshop Records - 21 November 2013	75
d	Waitakere Ranges Local Board Workshop Records - 28 November 2013	77

Chairperson	Sandra Coney, QSO
Deputy Chairperson	Denise Yates, JP
Members	Neil Henderson
	Greg Presland
	Steve Tollestrup
	Saffron Toms

Authors	Sharleen Grounds - Senior Local Board Advisor
Authorisers	Glenn Boyd - Relationship Manager Henderson-Massey, Waitakere Ranges, Whau