Agenda of Franklin Local Board

1 Welcome

2 Apologies

At the close of the agenda no apologies had been received.

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 and any private or other external interest they might have.

4 Confirmation of Minutes

That the Franklin Local Board:

a) confirms the ordinary minutes of its meeting, held on Tuesday, 28^th July 2015, 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 Petitions

7.1 Orere Point residents re request for walkway to be reopened

Purpose

1. To inform the Board of a petition signed by 223 residents requesting the Orere Point Walkway be reopened.

Executive Summary

2. The prayer of the petition signed by residents read as follows:

· The Orere Community would like to open the access walkway between 155 and 157 Howard Road.

· The nearest access track is more than a kilometre away if walking North or South.

· Our community has the skills and people to make this track accessible for public use.

3. The cover letter received with the petition highlights key points and provides background about the walkway.

Recommendation/s

That the Franklin Local Board receives the petition regarding the request to reopen the Orere Point walkway between 155 and 157 Howard Road, Orere Point.

Attachments

a Supporting letter and photos.................................................................... 3

8 Deputations

Standing Order 3.20 provides for deputations. Those applying for deputations are required to give seven working days notice of subject matter and applications are approved by the Chairperson of the Franklin Local Board. This means that details relating to deputations can be included in the published agenda. Total speaking time per deputation is ten minutes or as resolved by the meeting.

8.1 Deputation : Eye on Nature

Purpose

1. Informing the Board of the arrangements for the Manukau Beautification Trust to report on the Eye on Nature event.

Executive summary

2. As per standing orders the Chairman has approved the request from the Manukau Beautification Trust to provide a presentation on the Eye on Nature event.

3. The event is an annual event which is supported by the Franklin Local Board and other Local Boards through the event support fund.

Recommendation/s

That the Franklin Local Board thanks the representatives from the Manukau Beautification Trust for their attendance.

8.2 Deputation : Adrenalin Forest

Purpose

1. Informing the board of Adrenalin Forest’s proposal to lease Stone Road Reserve, Bombay.

Executive Summary

2. As per standing orders the Chairman has approved the request for Adrenalin Forest to provide a presentation to the Board their proposal.

Recommendation/s

That the Franklin Local Board thanks the representatives from the Adrenalin Forest for their attendance.

Attachments

a Adrenalin Forest Presentation.............................................................. 247

b Letter in Support - Nick Leggett........................................................... 255

c TIA Submission Adrenalin Forest 2015................................................ 257

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.

9.1 Marjorie Oaks - Alcohol Ban Review

Purpose

1. Marjorie Oaks accompanied by Lee Riley wish to be heard on her submission to the Alcohol Ban Review.

Executive Summary

2. Marjorie Oaks has requested an opportunity speak to the board in public forum on her submission regarding the Alcohol Ban Review. As there are no further hearings on this matter in the Franklin Board area the Chair has granted her request.

Recommendation/s

That the Franklin Local Board:

a) Thanks Marjorie Oaks and Lee Riley for speaking to their submission on the Alcohol Ban Review.

Attachments

a Submission by Marjorie Oaks on the Alcohol Ban Review included in the Agenda of the Hearings on 11th August 2015..................................... 267

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.

Franklin Local Board

25 August 2015

Proposed 2015/2016 Local Environment Work Programme

File No.: CP2015/14359

Purpose

1. To present the proposed 2015/2016 local environment work programme to the Franklin Local Board (the board) for approval.

Executive Summary

2. The board included a number of budget lines in its 2015/2016 locally driven initiatives (LDI) budget line for environmental projects. This included support for the Manukau Harbour Forum ($12,000), continuing water quality monitoring at Waiuku ($6,000), waterways ($40,000) and pest control ($20,000).

3. This report proposes a work programme for those budget lines, noting that $12,000 has already been allocated to the Manukau Harbor Forum and that $10,000 of the pest control budget line will be allocated at a later date pending a review of current community-led pest control initiatives.

Recommendations

a) That the Franklin Local Board approves the 2015/2016 local environment work programme as noted below;

Budget line	Project	Objective	Cost
Waterways	Wairoa River	· To develop a management plan for the Wairoa River, in collaboration with Wairoa River Landcare	$15,000
	Wairoa River	· To provide a salary for a local person to lead the implementation of the management plan, and to coordinate partnerships with alternative funding providers.	$12,000
	Mauku Stream	· To support restoration activity along the Mauku Stream.	$8,000
	Wai Care	· To fund new planting and maintenance of existing planting along streams supported as part of the Wai Care programme	$5,000
Pest Control	Hornwort	· To support a survey of the Wairoa Stream and its tributaries for hornwort.	$10,000

b) That the Franklin Local Board agrees that the $3,000 water quality testing and monitoring budget line will support ongoing water monitoring at Waiuku as part of the regional state of the environment monitoring programme.

c) That the Franklin Local Board notes that a separate report will be presented to the board to allocate the remaining budget.

Comments

4. The board allocated $78,000 of its LDI budget to support the delivery of a local environment work programme in line with the Franklin Local Board Plan outcome of ‘Cherished Natural Environment’. Table 1 below outlines the proposed work programme supporting that budget, with additional detail noted in paragraphs 5 to 29 below.

Budget Line	Project	Objective	Cost
Manukau Harbour Forum	Manukau Harbour Forum Work Programme	· To support implementation of Year 2 of the Manukau Harbour Forum work programme	$12,000
Water Quality Testing and Monitoring	Waiuku water quality testing	· To continue monitoring of a site in Waiuku to complement the regional state of the environment monitoring.	$6,000 (now reduced to $3,000)
Waterways	Wairoa River	· To support the development of a management plan for restoration of the Wairoa River, and seed funding for implementation of the plan.	$15,000
	Wairoa River	· To provide a salary for a local person to support the implementation of the management plan, and to develop partnerships with alternative funders.	$12,000
	Wai Care	· To fund new planting and maintenance of existing planting along streams supported as part of the Wai Care programme	$5,000
	Mauku Stream Restoration	· To support restoration activity along the Mauku Stream.	$8,000
Pest Control	Pest Control (Hornwort)	· To undertake a survey of the Wairoa River and its tributaries for hornwort.	$10,000
Total			$68,000 (reduced to $65,000)

Table 1: Proposed 2015/2016 local environment work programme

Manukau Harbour Forum ($12,000)

5. The board agreed to fund year 2 of the Manukau Harbour Forum (the Forum) work programme at its May 2015 meeting (resolution number FR/2015/66). This will be funded through the separate LDI budget line for Manukau Harbour Forum.

6. In 2014/2015, the Forum’s work programme focused on developing a strategic communications plan, including developing content for the Manukau Harbour Forum and Manukau Harbour pages on the Auckland Council website as well as the ongoing newsletters to stakeholders and interested parties. At the time of writing, a total of three of the flagship sites events had been held. A full report back to the Forum on the first year of the Forum’s programme is pending.

Water Quality Monitoring ($3,000)

7. The board has funded a site in the Waiuku Estuary to be included in the regional state of the environment monitoring programme for the past two financial years. The inclusion of this site means a total of eight sites around the Manukau Harbour are monitored for saline water quality as part of the state of the environment monitoring. This is in addition to the water quality monitoring undertaken at bathing beaches as part of the Safe Swim programme.

8. Council’s Research, Investigations and Monitoring Unit (RIMU) are preparing a report on water quality that will include information generated from the site at Waiuku. (This is in addition to the state of the environment report due in August 2015). As the data from the Waiuku site is still ‘new’, any trends that will be included in the water quality report will need to be interpreted with caution. That said, the data is telling us that there is high suspended sediments and nutrients in the estuary similar to other impacted sites in the Manukau (Weymouth and Mangere inlet).

9. It is recommended that monitoring of this site continue for a further five years, with an option to review the monitoring in three years’ time. The review can be used to decide if changes and adaptation of the monitoring are required in response to any identified issues. An additional five years of monitoring would give more strength to any statements about trends in the water quality. Following the completion of a review of the monitoring programme, the revised cost of the monitoring of this site is $3000 per annum, reduced from $6000.

10. The cost to monitor this site is less than expected. The board may wish to discuss using the remaining budget to monitor a further site.

Waterways

Wairoa River Management Plan and Coordinator ($27,000)

11. A detailed catchment study for the Wairoa River was completed by the former Auckland Regional Council in 2002. A subsequent study undertaken by Wairoa River Landcare in 2011 made a number of recommendations including funding being made available for a multi-year riparian restoration programme. It is recommended that the board support the development of a Wairoa River Restoration Action Plan.

12. The restoration plan will provide a vision for the restoration, actions, objectives, design and goals. The restoration plan will establish what will be done and when, by whom, and indicators of success. It will also include an indication of required budget to support implementation of the plan.

13. The Mahurangi Action Plan provides an example of a management plan. It is guided by an overarching vision, and contains nine key objectives alongside priority actions to support restoration of the Mahurangi river. The overall structure of the Mahurangi Action Plan is appended as an example at Attachment A.

14. It is recommended that funding of $15,000 be allocated to support the development of the plan, in collaboration with Wairoa River Landcare. This figure includes seed funding to support the implementation of the plan.

15. Anecdotal evidence indicates that one of the success factors for restoration projects is a dedicated local person who leads the implementation of restoration plans, and develops partnerships with alternative funders. It is recommended that the board allocate a one-off salary of $12,000 from its waterways budget line to support a coordinator role. This figure is based on a calculation of the coordinator working 15 hours a week for six months, with a requirement to seek external funding to cover the role for a longer term, or for additional hours. A dedicated coordinator was one of the recommendations in the 2011 study noted above.

16. The Environment, Climate Change and Natural Heritage Committee agreed the parameters of the new Regional Environment and Heritage (RENH) Fund at its July 2015 meeting. In order to access this fund, applicants will need to provide evidence that their project is a regionally significant project (such as supporting the protection of threatened species, or in a priority catchment.

17. Technical advice and support for the coordinator will be provided by technical experts within Infrastructure and Environmental Services.

Mauku Stream ($8,000)

18. The board has funded Whakaupoko Landcare to undertake restoration planting on private properties along the Mauku Stream for the past two financial years through both its environment and discretionary budgets. The long term goal of this restoration project is to improve water quality in the stream, and the Manukau Harbour.

19. It is recommended that the board continue to fund this project in 2015/2016 at a cost of $8,000, noting that a report on outcomes of the 2014/2015 funding is pending.

Wai Care ($5,000)

20. A dedicated Wai Care coordinator works with local schools and community groups in the Franklin area to engage them in caring for local streams and waterways. This includes education sessions in local schools, planting along streams, and regular monitoring of water quality.

21. No funding for maintenance of stream planting as part of the regional Wai Care programme was made available in the Long-term Plan 2015-2025 (LTP). Local parks have also advised that there is little regional funding available for maintenance of new planting. It is recommended that local funding of $5,000 be allocated to support planting and maintenance as part of the Wai Care programme work.

Pest Control

Hornwort Survey and Management Plan ($10,000)

22. In May 2015, hornwort (Ceratophyllum demersum) was found in the Wairoa River. Hornwort is listed as a surveillance pest plant in the Regional Pest Management Strategy (RPMS) as it has the potential to clog waterways, causing flooding, diminishing contact recreation (boating/swimming) opportunity, impacting water quality and reducing wetted (open water) habitat for fish and waterfowl.

23. Hornwort has the potential to spread outside of the Wairoa catchment on boats and trailers and though manual plant transfer by people to aquariums and ponds. While hornwort is found in a small number of waterbodies elsewhere in Auckland, its discovery in the Wairoa is particularly significant as the difficulty of eradicating hornwort in flowing water systems brings aspirations to eradicate the species completely from the region to an end. The focus has therefore shifted to containing hornwort in the Wairoa River and preventing its spread to other high value waterways in the Auckland region. Further information on hornwort characteristics is appended as Attachment B.

24. It is recommended that a limited survey of the Wairoa River and its tributaries be undertaken to determine the extent of the hornwort infestation and produce management actions that will ensure the species is effectively contained and managed in the Wairoa River (this would not be an exhaustive delimitation survey of the whole catchment which would require a substantially greater effort, coverage and cost).

25. The cost of a limited survey and report would be up to $10,000, and be undertaken by council in collaboration with aquatic plant specialists at the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA). Any survey would be undertaken during the warmer months as hornwort dies back seasonally (winter senescence) and reaches maximum biomass in early autumn.

26. Regional funding is available to support signage at boat ramps to encourage users to check vessels (particularly those with outboard motors and jet units) for hornwort, and to clean their boats before launching in other freshwater bodies. Communication will be placed in local media to advise local residents of hornwort later this year, prior to the warmer months when hornwort will reappear in the Wairoa. There is the possibility also of video footage encouraging appropriate boat hygiene becoming available that could be distributed to and played at local schools and community events (including those run by Wai Care).

27. Depending on the outcome of the proposed survey, the board may wish to advocate for the inclusion of hornwort as total control pest plant in the current review of the RPMS (now Regional Pest Management Plan). The current classification of hornwort as a surveillance pest plant means that there is no requirement to ensure control is undertaken.

Community pest control

28. Awhitu and Whakaupoko Landcare undertake significant pest control on private land in the Franklin area. This work is supported regionally by Council through the provision of bait, traps and technical advice. In addition, Awhitu Landcare hold a contract to undertake possum control. It is recommended that additional local funding be allocated to those groups to undertake additional pest control work.

29. Staff have recently advised both Awhitu and Whakaupoko Landcare to provide better information as to the location of traps, and data on bait use to confirm where additional support is required. It is recommended that staff review this information prior to the allocation of the remaining $10,000 of local funding for pest control.

Regional Projects

30. A number of regionally-funded projects also support waterways protection in Franklin, such as the Wai Care programme noted in paragraph 18 above. Initial investigations and engagement is also currently being undertaken as part of the development of a management plan for the Pahurehure catchment.

31. Other regional projects include the Waterway Protection Fund which has provided grants to landowners in the Papakura and Ngakoroa Catchments to fence and plant waterways from stock for the past two financial years. At the time of writing this report, it had not been determined in what catchments the fund would be available.

32. The ecological prioritisation report for local parks and reserves in Franklin is currently being peer reviewed. This report will provide guidance for the board on where investment in restoration projects should be undertaken to achieve greatest biodiversity gain.

33. A significant pest control project will be undertaken in the Hunua Ranges over the next few months. The board is represented on the political steering group for this project.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

34. The projects noted above align with the immediate goals to ‘work towards a weed and pest-free natural environment’ and to ‘improve water quality and ensure our waterways and harbours are healthy and accessible’ noted in the Franklin Local Board Plan. In particular, the proposed management plan for the Wairoa River supports the key initiative in the plan to ‘initiate work to better manage, improve and enhance the Wairoa River’.

35. The draft environment work programme was discussed with the board at a workshop in July 2015.

Māori impact statement

36. No consultation with Maori was undertaken for the purposes of this report. Mana whenua will be involved in the development of any proposed plan for the Wairoa River.

Implementation

37. A second report recommending options for the remaining pest control budget will be presented to the board for decision following the review noted in paragraph 28 above.

38. Restoration projects often require ongoing funding for weeding and maintenance in future years.

39. An underspend in the environment Locally Driven Initiatives (LDI) is anticipated due to the revised cost for the Waiuku water quality monitoring.

40. There may be a requirement in future years for funding of the proposed Wairoa River Management Plan. However, Wairoa River Landcare will be encouraged to look at alternative funding options to support implementation of any plan, including the RENH Fund.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Mahurangi Action Plan - Plan Structure	113
b View	Additional Information on Hornwort	115

Signatories

Authors

Emma Joyce – Relationship Advisor

Matt Bloxham – Regional Biodiversity Advisor (Freshwater)

Ron Matthews – Biosecurity Team Leader (South)

Authorisers

Gael Ogilvie – Environmental Services Manager

John Dragicevich – Infrastructure and Environmental Services Manager

Teresa Turner – Relationship Manager

Franklin Local Board

25 August 2015

Grant of new community lease at 53R Whitford-Maraetai Road, Whitford

File No.: CP2015/15125

Purpose

1. This report seeks Franklin Local Board approval to grant a new community lease at Whitford War Memorial Domain, 53R Whitford-Maraetai Road, Whitford, to the Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated (the Club).

Executive Summary

2. The Whitford War Memorial Domain houses a set of public tennis courts and a pavilion building. Buildings on the domain are also used by Tamaki Playcentres Association Incorporated and the Royal New Zealand Plunket Society. The courts and pavilion building are currently underutilised.

3. Council was approached by the Club with a proposal to renovate the courts in order for them to be better used and to lease part of the pavilion as a clubroom. The club has secured funding to carry out the required work.

4. In order for there to be an open and transparent process and in accordance with the community occupancy guidelines 2012, the courts and pavilion building were advertised for a one month period from 6 March 2015, seeking expressions of interest from community organisations interested in securing a community lease on this site. One application for the vacancy was received, from the Whitford Tennis Club.

5. It is recommended that a community lease be granted to the Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated for the courts and part of the pavilion (site plan Attachment A) for five years commencing 1 September 2015, with one five year right of renewal.

6. There is a long term Auckland Transport proposal which could result in road widening and affect one or more courts on the Domain. The Club are aware of this proposal and content to still renovate the courts as this work is likely to fall outside of the life of the court surface. It is recommended a clause be added to the lease to give 3 months’ notice to terminate the lease if the road project goes ahead within the term and affects the leased area.

7. A community outcomes plan will be an attachment to the lease subject to Local Board approval (Attachment B).

Recommendation/s

That the Franklin Local Board:

a) Approves a new community lease to the Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated for courts and part of the pavilion at Whitford War Memorial Domain, 53R Whitford-Maraetai Road, Whitford subject to the following terms and conditions:

i) Term – 5 years commencing 1 September 2015 with one 5 year right of renewal;

ii) Rent - $1.00 per annum if requested;

iii) An annual shared utilities fee of $25.00 per square metre of leased building area for occupancy of a shared Council owned building;

iv) The inclusion of a clause in the lease to give 3 months’ notice to terminate the lease if a proposed road project goes ahead within the term and affects the leased area;

v) The inclusion of a clause in the lease that the public maintain some access to the courts, at times that suit the needs of the Club, public and Council;

vi) The Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated Community Outcomes Plan as approved and attached to the lease document;

vii) All other terms and conditions in accordance with the Local Government Act 2002 and the Auckland Council Community Occupancy Guidelines 2012.

Comments

8. The Whitford War Memorial Domain houses a set of public tennis courts and a pavilion building. Other buildings on the domain are used by Tamaki Playcentres Association incorporated and the Royal New Zealand Plunket Society. Fields are used for soccer. The pavilion building houses a foyer room, storage room, kitchen and decking. It also houses two toilets and a changing room which are used at times by soccer club members and the public. The courts and pavilion building are currently underutilised.

9. Council was approached by the Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated with a proposal to renovate the tennis courts in order for them to be more useable. The Club has secured funding from the Franklin Local Board, the Whitford Community Charitable Trust and from fundraising activity to carry out the required work.

10. The pavilion building is currently operated as a Venue for Hire. It is a small venue and suitable for small community events and meetings. It was intended the pavilion be included in the Rural Halls project and managed by a committee. In working through this process it was deemed, due to the small nature of the building, that it may be better utilised by a local club under a community lease and made available for use by the wider community by the successful lessee.

11. In order for there to be an open and transparent process and in accordance with the community occupancy guidelines 2012 the courts and pavilion building were advertised for a one month period from 6 March 2015 in the local newspaper and on the Council website. Council staff also notified any interested parties from the lease waiting list and canvassed local networks.

12. Only one application for the vacancy was received, from the Whitford Tennis Club. It is recommended a community lease be granted to the Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated for the courts and part of the pavilion, Whitford War Memorial Domain, 53R Whitford-Maraetai Road, Whitford for five years commencing 1 September 2015 with one five year right of renewal.

13. The Whitford Tennis Club was incorporated on 15 August 2014 and formed by residents with an interest in revitalising the game of tennis in the area. The Club have a strong committee made up of community members, business people and past tennis players. Their plan is to build membership from within the local community, promote, teach and play the game of tennis, provide a heath and leisure activity and social interaction to both adults and young people in the area and open up the pavilion building for greater community use.

14. The Club have a comprehensive constitution, strategic plan and financial plan. They intend to upgrade the Courts to astro turf and land owner approval has been granted for the proposed work by the Franklin Local Board. In future they have plans to renovate the interior of the pavilion building to make it more useable by members and the local community and they will seek approval from Council for any proposed works.

15. Ownership of the tennis courts will remain with Council. Council acknowledge the benefit that the work the Club will do in revitalising the courts will have for the club’s members and the wider community.

16. Historically the courts have been open and accessible to the public and part of the mandate for land such as this is for the benefit and enjoyment of the public. For this reason, it is proposed the public still have some access to the courts. It is recommended that a clause be included in the lease to preserve some access to the courts at times that balance the needs of the Club, the public and Council. There are examples of models that work currently in other areas and council staff will work through these options with the Club who have indicated their willingness to incorporate this.

17. The leased area will incorporate the Courts and part of the pavilion building. It will not cover a shelter beside the Courts which is a park asset and open for use by the public. The Club will be able to use it in the normal course of their use of the courts. The lease of the building does not include the room used by Plunket or the two toilets and changing room. There are no other public toilets in the immediate area and access to the toilets needs to be preserved for use by the soccer club and members of the public. The Club will have full use of and access to the changing room and toilets so there will be no disadvantage. Their preference was to lease all the areas to ensure access for their members and for future renovation, but they are accepting of the need for public access.

18. There is a long term Auckland Transport proposal which, were it to proceed, would result in road widening which could affect one or more of the courts on the Domain. The club are aware of the proposal and are content to renovate the courts as this work is likely to fall outside of the life of the court surface. The transport proposal is not currently included in 10 year plans and budget.

19. In case the roading project proceeds within the lease term and affects the leased area it is recommended a clause be added to the lease to give 3 months’ notice to terminate the lease. If only part of the leased area is affected a new lease could be granted at the time with a modified leased area if appropriate.

20. In accordance with the Community Occupancy Guidelines it is recommended that the rent be $1.00 per annum plus GST if requested. As the facility is shared with the Royal New Zealand Plunket Society and contains public amenities it is recommended the Club pay the annual Shared Utilities fee of $25 per square metre of leased building area they occupy. This covers a share of the costs including power, water, building insurance and key maintenance which would be covered by the fee. The Club will be responsible for any other utilities they choose to have for example telephone, for contents and public liability insurance and for some general wear and maintenance as set out in the maintenance schedule attached to the lease.

21. A community outcomes plan will be an attachment to the lease subject to Local Board approval.

22. The land at Whitford War Memorial Domain, 53R Whitford-Maraetai Road, Whitford is held in fee simple by Auckland Council and subject to the Local Government Act 2002. Any lease will be subject to these conditions and to the Auckland Council Community Occupancy Guidelines 2012.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

23. The recommendations within this report fall within the Local Board’s allocated authority relating to the local, recreation, sports and community facilities.

24. The details of a lease to the Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated have been discussed with Local Board portfolio holders and the Local Board have been involved in decisions surrounding funding, the Rural Halls project and land owner approval applications.

Māori impact statement

25. There is no significant change or impact for Maori associated with the recommendations in this report. Maori may benefit as users of the facility and members of the Club.

Implementation

26. The recommendations contained in this report do not trigger the Auckland Council Significance Policy.

27. Council staff have sought input from relevant council departments. Auckland Transport have given advice on the future roading project and given their approval for the proposed lease based on a termination clause being added.

28. Costs associated with the preparation of lease documentation are met by Auckland Council.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Attachment A - Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated Leased Area Site Plan	125
b View	Attachment B - Whitford Tennis Club Incorporated Community Outcomes Plan	127

Signatories

Authors

Christine Benson - Advisor Community Lease

Authorisers

Graham Bodman - Manager - Community Development, Arts and Culture

Teresa Turner - Relationship Manager

Franklin Local Board

25 August 2015

New Road Name Approval for the residential subdivision by Ian Gibson at 34c Karaka Road, Beachlands

File No.: CP2015/16352

Purpose

1. The purpose of this report is to seek approval from the Franklin Local Board, for a new road name for a road created by way of subdivision at 34c Karaka Road, Beachlands.

Executive summary

2. Auckland Council has road naming guidelines that set out the requirements and criteria of the Council for proposed road names. These requirements and criteria have been applied in this situation to ensure consistency of road naming for the Auckland Council.

3. Following assessment against the road naming criteria, the road names ‘Keshvara Road’ (applicant’s preferred road name), ‘LiriFoga Road’ and ‘Visavada Road’ were determined to meet the road naming policy criteria.

4. Local iwi groups were consulted and Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki supported all road names proposed by the applicant. No responses were received in contrary.

5. The name ‘Keshvara Road’, proposed by the Applicant and the names ‘LiriFoga Road’ and ‘Visavada Road’, are considered for approval by the Local Board.

Recommendation/s

That the Franklin Local Board, pursuant to section 319(1)(j) of the Local Government Act 1974, considers for the approval, the road name ‘Keshvara Road’, proposed by the Applicant, for the new road created by way of subdivision at (34c Karaka Road, Beachlands) while noting that ‘LiriFoga Road’ and ‘Visavada Road’, also meet the road naming criteria.

Comments

6. The Auckland Council Road Naming Guidelines allowed that where a new road needs to be named as a result of a subdivision or development, the subdivider/developer shall be given the opportunity of suggesting their preferred new road name for Council’s approval.

7. The road to be named is wide and straight, intersected by Seventh View Avenue and surrounded by a new subdivision. Resource consent for this subdivision was applied for and granted under resource consent 46889, SP11785.

The Applicant has proposed the following names for consideration for the road created as part of the development at 34c Karaka Road, Beachlands.

Preference	Proposed New Road Name	Meaning
Preferred Name	Keshvara Road	The Keshvara family, have been members of the Beachlands, Maraetai and Umupuia community for over 32 years. The Keshvara family has been a supporter of Beachlands Volunteer Fire Brigade and have had various local businesses, including operating an ice cream shop, a mobile ice cream van, a fruit and vegetable shop and an appliance repair workshop. The Keshvara family is also involved in land development, such as the development of the Marina Heights subdivision off Karaka Road.
First Alternative	LiriFoga Road	LiriFoga has ancestral ties and connection with the Keshvara Family as grandparents. They have been local residents and members of Beachlands community.
Second Alternative	Visavada Road	The Keshvara family originated in the village of Visavada which is located close to the coastin northwest India north of Mumbai. The Keshvara family, have been settled in the Beachlands area for over 32 years and have ancestral ties to Visavada.

Figure One: Location and Layout of new Road

Decision Making

8. The Auckland Council, by way of the Auckland Council Long Term Plan (2012 - 2022), allocated the responsibility for the naming of new roads, pursuant to section 319(1)(j) of the Local Government Act 1974, to Local Boards.

Assessment

9. The Applicant’s proposed road names have been assessed against the criteria set out in the Auckland Council road naming guidelines;

10. The Applicant’s preferred name ‘Keshvara Road’ meets all the criteria of the road naming guidelines. It is also noted that the proposed names ‘LiriFoga Road’ and ‘Visavada Road’ also comply with the criteria.

11. The proposed suffix of ‘Road’ is appropriate in this circumstance, as the road is an open roadway primarily used for vehicles. The applicant also proposed ‘Avenue’ which meets the criteria, being a broad roadway. The applicant’s preference was ‘Road’.

12. As the Applicant’s preferred name ‘Keshvara Road’ meets the criteria, it is recommended for consideration for approval while noting that the alternative names proposed, being ‘LiriFoga Road’ and ‘Visavada Road’ are also appropriate as they comply with all the criteria of the road naming guidelines.

Consideration

Significance of Decision

13. The decision sought from the Franklin Local Board for this report does not trigger any significant policy and is not considered to have any immediate impact on the community.

Maori impact statement

14. The decision sought from the Franklin Local Board on this report is linked to the Auckland Plan Outcome, “A Maori identity that is Auckland’s point of difference in the world”. The use of Maori names for roads, buildings and other public places is an opportunity to publicly demonstrate Maori identity.

Consultation

15. The applicant has emailed all the relevant iwi groups, and they were given a 15 working day period to respond. Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki replied, offering support for all the names proposed. Four other responses were received, stating that they deferred the matter to Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki.

16. New Zealand Post was consulted and indicated that all the names provided are acceptable from their perspective.

Financial and Resourcing Implications

17. The cost of processing the approval of the proposed new road name and any installation of road name signage is recoverable in accordance with Council’s Administrative Charges.

Legal and Legislative Implications

18. The decision sought from the Franklin Local Board for this report is not considered to have any legal or legislative implications.

Implementation

19. The Resource Consenting Team is involved in ensuring that appropriate road name signage will be installed accordingly once an approval is obtained for the new road name.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

Signatories

Authors

Gayatri Devi - Resource Consent Administrator

Authorisers

Ian Smallburn - General Manager Resource Consents

Teresa Turner - Relationship Manager

Franklin Local Board

25 August 2015

Auckland Transport Update – August 2015

File No.: CP2015/13477

Purpose

1. Providing an update on transport matters for the information of the Franklin Local Board and a register of transport issues in the Franklin Local Board area, as collated by Auckland Transport’s Elected Member Relationship Manager (South).

Executive Summary

2. This report covers matters of specific application and interest to the Franklin Local Board and its community, matters of general interest relating to Auckland Transport activities or the transport sector, and Auckland Transport media releases for the information of the Board and community.

3. In particular, this report provides information on:

· The Franklin Local Board’s transport capital fund

· Pukekohe station update

· Pukekohe diesel shuttle services

· Response to Franklin Local Board July 2015 resolutions

· Whitford village update

· Waiuku pavers update

· Update on Crown Road level crossing

· Public transport patronage for June 2015.

Recommendation/s

That the report entitled ‘Auckland Transport Update – August 2015’ and the attached issues register from Auckland Transport’s Elected Member Relationship Manager (South) be received.

Discussion

Franklin Items

A1. Local board transport capital fund (LBTCF)

4. The Franklin Local Board’s funding allocation under the LBTCF is currently $434,966 per annum.

5. The Board’s current LBTCF projects are included in the table below (in which ROC = rough order of costs, and FEC = firm estimate of cost):

ID#	Project Description	Progress/Current Status
083	Pukekohe East Road-Mill Road/Harrisville Road intersection, Bombay/Pukekohe – installation of variable 70 km/h rural intersection activated warning signage (RIAWS) · FEC estimate of $67,000	· On 26-Nov-13, the Board gave construction approval for the project based on the FEC of $67,000. · The nation-wide trial sites for RIAWS were only for the period from Jul-12 to Jul-14. · Waikato District Council has formalised the variable speed limit on the southern side of Pukekohe East Road-Mill Road. AT approved the variable speed limit on the northern side of the road in Jun-14. · The NZTA has been evaluating the results of the trial sites and will determine criteria and standards for the permanent approval of such sites this year. · AT is determining with NZTA whether the new permanent standards will closely follow the trial standards (so installation at Mill/Harrisville can be progressed sooner) or whether installation must await the issue of permanent standards.
074	Third View Avenue, Beachlands – install 300m of new kerb and channel between Sunkist Bay Road and Cherrie Road (both sides) · FEC estimate of $230,000	· On 15-Apr-14, the Board gave approval to proceed with construction. · Construction is completed except for final chipsealing, which needs to wait for more favourable weather. · Final costs to be reported.
254	Tobin Street car park lighting improvements · ROC estimate of $35,000 · Final cost of $35,175	· Construction was completed in early May-15. · Final cost reported at $35,175.
249	Pukekohe North streetlighting LED improvements · ROC estimate of $201,000 · Project currently on hold	· On 26-Aug-14, the Board gave approval to proceed with construction in 18 streets. · On 24-Mar-15, the Board resolved to put this project on hold pending further advice from AT on when its regional streetlighting upgrade project may be implemented in the Pukekohe and Waiuku urban areas. · AT has advised that no areas within Franklin are likely to be upgraded to LED lighting under the regional Light Switch Project in the current financial year. Given this advice, the Board may wish to consider whether to re-activate this project to ensure that the LED improvements are implemented more quickly. · The Board has requested further information on the priorities and allocation of funding of the regional project. A workshop has been scheduled with the Board in early Sep-15.
250	Waiuku South streetlighting LED improvements · ROC estimate of $70,000 · Project currently on hold	· On 26-Aug-14, the Board gave approval to proceed with construction in three streets. · As per #249 above, this project is currently on hold but the Board may wish to consider resuming the project.
348	Kaiwaka Road new footpath, Waiuku · FEC estimate of $66,500	· On 26-Aug-14, the Board gave approval to proceed with construction based on the ROC estimate of $50,000. · On 28-Jul-15, the Board authorised that construction should continue based on the firm estimate of $66,500. · Construction work began in the first week of Aug-15 and is expected to be completed by the end of the month, weather permitting.
349	Pacific Street new footpath, Waiuku · Revised ROC of $147,500	· On 26-Aug-14, the Board gave approval to proceed with construction. · On 16-Jun-15, the Board approved the expansion of the project to further include road stormwater work, new kerb and channel, and land purchase at the bend on Pacific Street to ease the corner radius, and approved construction based on the revised ROC subject to consultation with the affected landowner. · AT has completed survey work and is currently doing the design work prior to consultation with the affected landowner regarding land purchase. · Pacific Street is due to be resealed by AT this financial year. AT is investigating whether the required drainage work elements can be funded as part of the maintenance work, by either AT or Council Stormwater.
371	Whitford bus interchange · FEC estimate of $200,000	· Construction has been completed, including streetlighting installation. · Final costs to be reported but are expected to be in the order of $160-165,000.
248	Hunua pedestrian facility · FEC estimate of $54,000	· On 9-Dec-14, the Board gave approval to proceed with construction, based on the FEC of $54,000. · Opus is progressing the detailed design, consultation and TCC approval. It is expected this will be completed by the end of Aug-15. · AT will develop the contract and call tenders in parallel with the TCC process so that the contract is ready to award as soon as TCC approval is received.
443	Upgrade of Beachlands town centre gardens	· The Board’s transport portfolio has requested AT to provide a ROC for upgrading the existing town centre gardens in Beachlands.
##	Second View Avenue, Beachlands – installation of new kerb and channel between Wakelin and Bell Roads (both sides)	· The Board’s transport portfolio has requested AT to provide a ROC for this remaining section of Second View without kerb and channel, given it’s close proximity to the village centre.
##	Kitchener Road angle parking and garden upgrade, Waiuku	· A Board transport portfolio holder has requested AT to provide a ROC for upgrading the Kitchener Road angle parking and garden in Waiuku.

6. The Franklin Local Board’s transport capital fund to date is summarised below.

Franklin Local Board transport capital fund summary:

*Total funding available (across 5 FYs – 2012/12 to 2016/17)*	$2,174,830
Completed projects reporting actual costs (Second View Ave kerb and channel; Patumahoe/Waiuku/Attewell investigation; Pukekohe station overbridge; Ardmore School footpath; Harris St bench; Pukeoware School signs; Waiuku pavers upgrade; Third View Ave kerb and channel projects x1; Awhitu flag lighting; Tobin St car park lighting)	-$599,867
Projects approved for construction based on rough or firm estimates (Mill/Harrisville electronic signage; Third View Ave kerb and channel projects x1; Kaiwaka Rd footpath; Pacific St footpath; Whitford bus interchange; Hunua pedestrian facility)	-$939,500
Projects approved for construction but currently placed on hold (Pukekohe North x18 & Waiuku South x3 streetlighting improvements)	+$271,000
Projects awaiting ROCs (Beachlands town centre gardens upgrade; Second View Ave further kerb and channel; Kitchener Road angle parking and garden upgrade)	?
*Funding still available to allocate*	$906,463

A2. Pukekohe station update

7. The scope of works for the project is a bus interchange, park and ride, new station overbridge (noting there is no specific station upgrade scope included in this project) and improvements to the Custom Street, Harris Street and Manukau Road intersections to cater for the new bus network.

8. The budget for the project is $13.7m across the 2015/16 and 2016/17 financial years.

9. The current project status is as follows:

a. NZTA funding requests are being prepared and are anticipated to progress over the next two to three months. A submission to NZTA for Design funding is planned for late August 2015.

b. Investigation and concept design will be completed in late 2015. Auckland Transport is preparing to engage a designer for the intersection investigation and plans for them to begin work in August 2015.

c. Detailed design will be completed in the first quarter of early 2016, subject to approval of scope for the road intersection scope of works. Agreement of the road intersection selected option is anticipated to be progressed concurrently with the bus interchange to enable Auckland Transport to apply for NZTA funding for the construction at the earliest opportunity.

d. Auckland Transport has confirmed that the service centre vehicle crossings will need to be closed to allow the operation of the initial bus interchange and it is preferred that these vehicle crossings remain closed permanently due to safety concerns following the increased usage of Custom Street.

e. There may be a requirement for a Christmas 2016 rail block of line to install the permanent overbridge and preparatory works for the proposed lifts. Plans for the project are still being worked through and any such requests for rail closures will be progressed in accordance with the agreed process, noting that customer information is prioritised. This will be reviewed in more detail as the project develops.

f. Completion of the overall scope of works is anticipated for mid-2017.

10. The priority for the overall scope is to construct the bus interchange as a top priority to ensure the New Network bus route roll-out can be accommodated.

A3. Pukekohe diesel shuttle services

11. Auckland Transport is aware of a number of issues that have negatively impacted on the startup of the Pukekohe diesel shuttle service since the introduction of all-electric services across the electrified network on 20 July, and agrees that the provision of rail services has been well below expectations, particularly in the initial stages.

12. Auckland Transport is actively managing the issues that have arisen in partnership with Transdev and KiwiRail, and is having daily meetings to monitor both performance on the network and the operation of the shuttle service. Collective efforts are focused on eliminating the root causes which have been impacting on customers at Pukekohe.

13. Performance of the diesel shuttle was negatively affected during the first three days of operations by a staffing issue, mechanical faults, points failures and dropped tracks. There has been considerable improvements in the service since those first three days, with the only other big impact being a signal fault at Pukekohe in the early morning of 6 August.

14. From 20 July through to 10 August, punctuality (services arriving within 5 minutes of schedule at final destination) is recorded at 96.98% while reliability (planned services completing their journey) is recorded at 97.55%. Since 20 July, Auckland Transport now operates 64 one-way shuttle services between Pukekohe and Papakura daily (on working weekdays).

15. In the short term, Auckland Transport has agreed for Transdev to provide a higher level of supervision at Pukekohe, to assist with right time train departures, and staff have been reassigned to Papakura and Pukekohe to provide a more visible customer service presence.

16. Auckland Transport is in discussions with KiwiRail and the following mitigation work will be carried out between 15 August and Labour weekend in October to further improve service delivery:

a. Upgrade Pukekohe with new point’s motors, cables and ducting to improve reliability. Planned maintenance will take place between Papakura and Pukekohe, including sleeper replacements.

b. From early September, driver DMU conversion training will be completed, and Pukekohe train services will be provided by the DMU trains, which will improve reliability.

c. Auckland Transport has instructed Transdev (in conjunction with KiwiRail) to review the train operations at Papakura to ascertain if any adjustments can be made to allow for a more seamless transfer for passengers. This will also include reviewing the transfer time allowance per train, and cross platform transfers.

A4. Response to Franklin Local Board July 2015 resolutions

17. At its July meeting, under item 16 “Auckland Transport Update – July 2015”, the Franklin Local Board passed the following resolutions:

Resolution number FR/2015/118

b) That the Franklin Local Board requests Auckland Transport provides more information on why no new projects in Franklin are being allocated regional funding for LED streetlighting improvements, considering it is a priority strategic town in Auckland Council’s future growth strategy.

c) That the Franklin Local Board requests Auckland Transport give urgent attention to the impact of the current train scheduling for those with disabilities and mobility issues transitioning at Papakura.

18. In response to resolution FR/2015/118 b), Auckland Transport has arranged to attend a Franklin Local Board workshop in early September to supply further information.

19. In response to resolution FR/2015/118 c), as noted in item A3 above, Auckland Transport has instructed Transdev (in conjunction with KiwiRail) to review the train operations at Papakura to ascertain if any adjustments can be made to allow for a more seamless transfer for passengers, which will include reviewing the transfer time allowance per train, and cross platform transfers. The review will include consideration for those with disabilities and mobility issues.

A5. Whitford village update

20. Following the construction of the new school bus interchange just north of Whitford village on Whitford-Maraetai Road, funded by the Franklin Local Board, concerns regarding the 70km/h speed limit through Whitford village continue to be raised, including those past the new interchange and the impact of this on the safety of the new facility.

21. Auckland Transport has previously undertaken a speed limit review of Whitford village under the provisions of the Land Transport Rule: Setting of Speed Limits 2003, which did not support a lowering of the speed limit at that time. However, central government regulations in relation to the setting of speed limits are currently under review, which may allow for some greater flexibility in the setting of speed limits.

22. Following a site visit with the Franklin Local Board chairperson in early July, Auckland Transport has been investigating a number of initiatives to improve Whitford’s road safety issues as follows:

a. A possible speed limit review/change throughout Whitford village is underway, which is subject to updated speed and traffic data surveys, an approval process involving NZTA and taking into account consistency with other similar village and road environments. Speed and volume counts have been carried out at new locations to provide a better picture of the operating speeds within the village, with results expected mid-month, and a speed review meeting with NZTA and NZ Police is scheduled in late August. Auckland Transport is working to resolve this as soon as possible and aims to have a decision on the speed limit review by the end of August.

b. Auckland Transport has issued an instruction for the removal of the 70km/h repeater signs which are located on the village side of the bridge on Whitford-Maraetai Road. There will be no change in the speed limit but the signs, which some drivers use as a target to speed after driving through the village, will be removed with the outcome that drivers travelling north should be less inclined to speed up after the bridge, outside Pohutukawa Park and the new bus interchange.

c. Investigations are underway for village thresholds/gateways at all three approaches to the village. Options are yet to be completed as the outcome is related to the speed limit review.

d. As part of the proposed thresholds, Auckland Transport is also investigating a form of pedestrian facility for crossing Whitford-Maraetai Road north of the bridge, which would provide connectivity between the two recreational parks and reserve areas situated on both sides of the road. The type of facility will be subject to other potential treatments (i.e. the speed limit review and village gateways) and also any roadside constraints.

e. Road widening opposite the right turn movement into the carpark/lay-by area by the bus interchange is being included as an overall proposal for the eastern gateway approach to Whitford.

A6. Waiuku pavers update

23. The Committee investigating a suitable replacement for the current Waiuku town centre pavers is looking further at a water- permeable ceramic brick paving product with a view to making a recommendation to the Franklin Local Board in time for its October business meeting.

24. Auckland Transport is talking to the product supplier about trialling a limited selection of colours the ceramic brick pavers at selected sites within the Waiuku town centre as soon as possible.

A7. Update on Crown Road level rail crossing, Paerata (as provided by NZTA)

25. The new ‘hook turn’ facility at the Crown Road intersection with SH22 at Paerata has been completed and was opened to traffic on 7 July after a ‘fit-for-purpose’ inspection by NZTA safety engineers.

26. One more sign needs to be installed before the train speed restrictions can be lifted, and that installation is expected to occur by 14 August.

A8. Consultation documents on proposed improvements

27. Consultation documents for the following proposals have been provided to the Franklin Local Board for its feedback. As the Board’s transport portfolio holders provide feedback on the Board’s behalf, the material below is included for general information purposes only.

28. At the conclusion of consultation, Auckland Transport considers the various consultation responses received and determines whether to proceed further with the project as consulted on, or proceed with an amended proposal if changes are considered necessary.

29. Proposed pedestrian facility, Hunua Road, Hunua – At the request of the Franklin Local Board, Auckland Transport has reviewed pedestrian safety when crossing Hunua Road through Hunua village. Hunua Road can be difficult to cross, being semi-rural with a speed limit of 70 km/h. The area in the vicinity of the Hunua Community Hall was identified as an area which would benefit from measures to improve pedestrian crossing safety. Although there is usually a low demand for pedestrians to cross the road outside the Hunua Community Hall, there are groups of school children from Hunua School who walk from Lockwood Road along the eastern side of Hunua Road to access the Hunua Community Hall. There are also community events run at the Hunua Community Hall which require pedestrians to cross the road in this area. It is proposed to install side islands on both sides of Hunua Road outside the Hunua Community Hall to provide a safe location to cross the road, combined with ‘No Stopping At All Times’ (NSAAT) parking restrictions on Hunua Road and an extension of the footpath on the eastern side of the road, as shown on the plan at Attachment A. The Franklin Local Board has indicated its support for this proposal.

General Information Items

B1. Public transport patronage

30. The summary patronage performance for June 2015 is presented below (NB: SOI = Statement of Intent):

a. AT Metrol patronage totalled 79.2M for 12-months to June 2015 – growth of +9.5% against an SOI target of 73.7M.

b. Rail patronage totalled 13.9M for the 12-months to June 2015 – growth of +21.7% against an SOI target of 12.1M.

c. Northern Express patronage totalled 2.8M for the 12-months to June 2015 – growth of +17.2% against an SOI target of 2.5M.

d. Bus patronage totalled 57M for the 12-months to June 2015 – growth of +6.6% against an SOI target of 53.7M.

e. Ferry patronage totalled 5.5M for the 12-months to June 2015 – growth of +8.3% against an SOI target of 5.4M.

B2. Berm planting

31. Auckland Transport has developed a draft policy setting out how private planting in the road berm might be managed.

32. The draft policy has been approved to go out for consultation with local boards and Auckland Transport will be seeking either workshop or portfolio time to discuss the draft with interested local boards over the next month or so.

Media Releases

C1. A modern twist on Auckland’s Māori history

33. Auckland Transport has gone ‘high tech’ to help youngsters learn the Māori history of Tāmaki Makaurau (Auckland).

34. As part of Māori Language Week, Auckland Transport, COMET (an Auckland Council educational department) and Kiwa Digital have produced a bilingual App that showcases historic Auckland. The App, called “Whānau Fun Day on the Train”, features the story of a family trip by train from Pukekohe to Eden Park for a day at the Dick Smith Auckland NRL Nines. Along the way the family shares stories about sites of significance such as maunga, traditional names for landmarks and some family history.

35. The original idea came from Tui Gilling, Senior Māori Policy and Engagement Advisor at Auckland Transport. The App was co-authored by Tui and Nikora Wharerau with illustrations by Moanaroa Te Whata. The interactive book is voiced story is acted by children from Te Raki o Pukekohe /Pukekohe North School. The children also helped develop the characters.

36. As far as Auckland Transport knows, this is the first App to introduce Māori history in an interactive way, and users can choose either English or Māori and swipe to read, double tap to spell or just listen to get the correct pronunciations.

37. Other interactive features let users record their own voice for the story, paint the pictures and learn more about the history of landmarks on the journey

38. The App’s primary target is children aged 9 to 13 in rumaki reo or Kura Kaupapa Māori but it is also likely to appeal to a wider audience.

39. The book:

· meets Auckland Plan Māori outcomes including: Te hau o te whenua, te hau o te tangata, a Māori identity that is Auckland’s point of difference in the world

· promotes te reo Māori and good pronunciation

· promotes speaking te reo Māori in public areas, making it a natural part of Tāmaki Makaurau’s cultural fabric

· encourages the use of Auckland’s original Māori place names

· leads and celebrates Tāmaki Makaurau's Māori history.

40. Broader themes are:

· Māori using public transport

· fostering the development of relationships with rumaki reo and Kura Kaupapa Māori

· Māori literacy and education

· appealing to all Aucklanders/New Zealanders in content and language.

41. The App covers the Māori cultural heritage of Tāmaki Makaurau in a general way, taken from published sources, books and treaty settlement material.

42. It is hoped the book will be the first in a series featuring the same characters and may be used to tell the stories of other regions. Auckland Transport also wants to use the characters to spread road safety messages to young people.

43. The App is available free from Google Play Store and iTunes (search: whanau tereina) and downloadable via Auckland Transport’s website: http://at.govt.nz

C2. Otahuhu Interchange update

44. The design of the Otahuhu bus/rail interchange has been finalised (see image below) and main construction work will begin in October 2015. Work will see the existing Otahuhu train station upgraded to a fully integrated bus and train interchange, which will open in mid-to-late 2016.

45. The Otahuhu interchange is a key part of the new simpler and more connected south Auckland public transport network and is designed to support the rollout of the new network by becoming a key transfer station, connecting bus passengers to the train network. It will also be safer, with separated circulation areas for buses, trains and a shared path for pedestrians and cyclists. The aged Walmsley Road footbridge will also be replaced with a fully-accessible concourse with lift access.

46. The project is being undertaken in partnership with the NZTA and Auckland Council with funding from both confirmed. Enabling works have been underway since November 2014 and are drawing to a close to permit for the construction of the main facility.

Otahuhu interchange overview aerial

C3. Rail patronage breaking more records

47. The Auckland rail network has broken another record, with annual rail patronage having exceeded 14 million for the first time for a rolling 12-month period, just five months after the previous record on 13 million passengers. The new record came just days after the introduction of the full fleet of electric trains on 20 July.

48. The new trains are now running from Papakura to Swanson on the electrified network and the response from customers has been extremely positive as they enjoy the quality of the trains and the extra services. Auckland Transport with its operator Transdev now provide six trains per hour on the Eastern and Southern Lines and four trains per hour on the Western Line during peak weekday periods.

49. As more trains arrive from Spain, it is hoped to increase the size of some peak services to six cars to cope with the increasing demand. The last of Auckland’s 57 trains arrived at the beginning of August and will go into service once certified.

50. Rail patronage in Auckland grew 21.7% in the year to the end of June, which is 2.5 million more passengers than in June last year. When Britomart Transport Centre first opened in 2003, annual patronage was less than three million.

51. The number using all forms of public transport in Auckland reached 79 million in the year to June, an increase of 9.5% or an extra 19,000 boardings per day on average.

C4. Upgrade to white light for Auckland streets

52. Auckland Transport has begun New Zealand’s most ambitious LED replacement programme and is replacing 44,000 high pressure sodium (golden yellow light) street lights with energy efficient light emitting diodes (LED) luminaires. Auckland Transport owns more than 100,000 street lights, approximately one third of the country’s total lighting stock.

53. The first phase of the programme is being rolled out over five years, which means that nearly half of the region’s street lights will change from golden yellow light to white light. The rest of the conversion to LEDs will potentially follow in four to five years.

54. Auckland Transport has had a policy since 2012 that all new lights on pedestrian-dominated roads will be LED luminaires. Changing the old lights to LEDs will reduce the energy consumption by more than 60%. Auckland Transport already has approximately 2,000 energy efficient LED luminaires in service. The roll-out will immediately see 1,000 lights replaced in the Mount Albert/Mount Roskill area.

55. This project is expected to see net savings of $32 million over the 20 year design life of the LED luminaires. LED technology is cheaper over time, and also safer and more efficient, making it a smart choice for both the community and Auckland Transport. International experience has shown that white light is also a factor in crime prevention; delivers greater comfort and security and improves visibility and reaction times for drivers and pedestrians, resulting in fewer vehicle crashes and injuries.

56. Auckland Transport has also just awarded for four new Street Light Maintenance and Renewals contracts for four years beginning in August, and Downer ITS won the central and south contracts. The contracts include the replacement LED programme which began in May 2015. Phase one of the contracts’ LED replacement programme focuses mainly on residential roads which comprise approximately 40% of the region’s streetlighting network.

57. At the same time the new luminaires are changed, a Tele-management System (TMS) is being installed to manage and monitor the network. Through better management of light levels, a further 15 to 20% of energy savings can be achieved. The TMS will provide enhanced customer service as any faults on the network will be reported daily.

58. Auckland Transport already has LED luminaires around Eden Park which are controlled by a TMS system, established under an earlier project which has also worked well by increasing light levels before and after events.

C5. New tender system for Auckland bus services

59. In a milestone for the city’s transport services, Auckland Transport will soon be calling for tenders to operate its New Network bus services in south Auckland (including Pukekohe and Waiuku).

60. These will be the first tenders called under the new Public Transport Operating Model (PTOM) system and the first PTOM tenders called to create the long awaited New Network. This will mean major improvements to the way people travel on bus, train and ferry.

61. With the southern tender process leading the way, invitations will be called progressively for bus operators to tender in other sectors; west Auckland will be next later this year.

62. The tenders for Auckland’s south bus services will open on 17 August and close on 28 September. The successful tenderers will be named early in 2016 and should be operating the New Network Services by October 2016.

63. The New Network will create a region-wide network of bus, train and ferry services. The key principle is to run a number of high frequency services that are designed to work together through easy connections, using a “hub and spoke” connected network.

64. The services, where appropriate, will feed train services rather than duplicating them. This will maximise the efficiency of the new electric rail fleet and between buses and trains, and provide more direct and frequent journeys for south Auckland and the rest of the region.

65. The call for tenders represents a milestone both in providing bus services to Auckland’s travelling public and also in the way those services are provided. PTOM is a service contracting framework under the Land Transport Management Act 2003, ratified by the NZTA. It subsidises passenger routes and incentivises service providers to maximise efficient and effective delivery of public transport in a partnering arrangement with Auckland Transport.

66. Maximising income and minimising subsidies will come from increasing the levels of patronage by improving the experience through convenient, safe, fast, frequent and reliable services in quality vehicles. The system is very similar to those successfully operated in London and several Australian cities.

67. The NZTA recently approved Auckland Transport’s Request for Tender process and documentation that will be used to attract tenderers and select the operators.

68. Under PTOM, about half the region’s bus services will be contracted by competitive tender and the balance will be directly negotiated with the current bus operators.

69. These arrangements differ significantly from the current part-contracted and part-deregulated system in which bus companies receive fare revenues and subsidies.

Issues Register

70. The regular monthly issues register is Attachment B to this report.

Consideration

Local Board Views

71. The Board’s views will be incorporated during consultation on any proposed schemes.

Implementation Issues

72. All proposed schemes are subject to prioritisation, funding and consultation.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Plan of proposed new pedestrian facility, Hunua Road, Hunua Village	145
b View	Issues Register – Franklin Local Board – August 2015	147

Signatories

Author	Jenni Wild – Elected Member Relationship Manager (South); Auckland Transport
Authorisers	Jonathan Anyon – Elected Member Relationship Team Manager; AT

Franklin Local Board

25 August 2015

Auckland Transport Quarterly Update to Local Boards

File No.: CP2015/15809

Purpose

1. The purpose of this report is to inform local boards about progress on activities undertaken by Auckland Transport in the three months April to June 2015 and the planned activities anticipated to be undertaken in the three months July to September 2015.

Executive summary

2. Attachments include:

A – Auckland Transport activities

B – Travelwise Schools activities

C – Decisions of the Traffic Control Committee

D – Report against local board advocacy issues

E – Report on the status of the local board’s projects under the Local Board Transport Capital Fund (LBTCF).

Recommendation/s

That the Franklin Local Board receives the Auckland Transport Quarterly Report.

Significant activities during the period under review

Strategy and Planning

3. Corridor Management Plans (CMPs) – seven new CMP studies and one CMP review were completed this quarter. These are (1) Gillies Avenue CMP, (2) Henderson Metropolitan Centre Transport Study, (3) Glenfield Road-Birkenhead Avenue CMP, (4) Remuera Road-St Johns Road CMP, (5) Parnell Road-Parnell Rise CMP, (6) Hillsborough Road-Kinross Street CMP, (7) Rosebank Road-Patiki Road CMP and (8) Great South Road Stage 1 (Manukau to Drury) CMP Review.

4. AT Parking Strategy 2015 – The Strategy was approved in April and successfully launched at the end of May.

5. RPTP Variation – Public consultations and hearing deliberations on the Regional Public Transport Plan were completed this quarter.

Investment and Development

6. SMART (Southwest Multi-modal Airport Rapid Transit)

· Investigation to identify the best public transport mode (heavy or light rail) to support the employment and passenger growth at the Airport. It also includes the identification of a preferred corridor for protection. Construction has started on the Kirkbride interchange which includes widening for SMART.

PT Development

7. Otahuhu Bus Rail Interchange

· Detailed design is complete and NZTA funding has been approved for construction. The Signal Box was removed and the overhead live line lowered over Queens Birthday weekend. Enabling works are on schedule, with the main works tender deferred until all funding is approved (now approved) and planned for July release. It is expected that main works will begin in October 2015 and be completed in early June 2016.

8. Half Moon Bay New Ferry Facility

· This project includes the design and development of a new passenger ferry facility at Half Moon Bay, including integration with Public Transport, and accessibility and passenger amenity improvements. A site inspection of the pontoon and gangway units was completed in early July prior to placing these units into storage in readiness for the Stage 2 physical works completion. The wharf design is progressing with the submission of the building consent to Auckland Council expected in July/August 2015 .

9. City Rail Link

· Enabling Works Package: Phase 1 ECI design service contracts 1 and 2 have been awarded. Construction is to commence November 2015 with services relocation.

· Main Works: Construction to start in 2018/19, subject to a funding agreement with Government.

10. EMU Procurement

· 54 units have been provisionally accepted and the final three are in transit and due in Auckland in early August. Peak period EMU services began on 8 June from Papakura, and on 20 July the network became fully electric with Papakura and Swanson to Britomart service introduction.

PT Operations

11. Public Transport overall

· For the 12 months to the end of June, patronage was 79.25 million trips which is up 9.5% on the 2014 result. This is an increase of almost 7 million trips over the course of a year and, given the strong weekday growth, likely represents around an extra 30,000 trips being taken each working day. The changes for individual modes were:

· Bus (excluding Northern Express) – 57 million trips, up 6.6%

· Northern Express – 2.8 million trips, up 17.2%

· Rail – 13.9 million trips, up 21.7%

· Ferry – 5.5 million trips, up 8.3%

12. Rail Improvements

· The big performer was rail which reached 13.9 million passenger trips for the year, representing an annual increase of 21.7%. The growth is put down to the enhanced travel experience and additional capacity provided by the new electric trains and greater service frequency introduced over recent years.

· The AT network became fully electric on 20 July, except for the link between Papakura and Pukekohe which will continue to use diesel trains. These will be refurbished over time to provide an enhanced experience. The electric trains will provide improved travel experience and more capacity on all lines.

13. Bus & Ferry Improvements

· June was also a record-breaking month on the Northern Express, with patronage up 17% on the same month last year. The 12 month total patronage reached 2.8 million. It was also a record for other bus services as patronage rose 6.6% to 57 million trips. Ferry numbers for the year totalled 5.5 million trips, up 8.3% on an annual basis.

· Growth on bus services is attributed to increased services and frequency, improving travel times from new bus priority lanes and a significant improvement in service punctuality being achieved by bus operators through new timetables. Further service level increases and punctuality improvements are planned for later this year along with the introduction of double decker buses on a number of routes. New network routes will also be introduced from later this year.

Road Design and Development

14. Te Atatu Road Improvements

· Road Corridor Improvement project on Te Atatu Rd from School Road/Edmonton Road intersection to SH16. The evaluation of the construction tenders is now completed, with the award of the contract being imminent. Construction is targeted to start in August 2015 with completion expected around February 2017. A public open day will be arranged prior to the starting of physical works.

15. Albany Highway

· The Albany Highway North Upgrade project involves widening of Albany Highway between Schnapper Rock Road and the Albany Expressway. Construction is approximately 40% complete. Disruption to land owners and road users due to construction is being well managed, with any issues being quickly resolved. The Rosedale Road intersection signalisation has been brought forward to July to assist with traffic management and pedestrian safety.

16. Lincoln Road Improvements

· The project involves widening Lincoln Road between Te Pai Place and the motorway interchange to accommodate additional transit/bus lanes on both sides. Stakeholder feedback has been received for the 2-D layout plan, and the NZTA funding application for the detailed design is progressing. The designation process is expected to start in late November 2015.

17. Mill Road Improvements

· The Redoubt Road - Mill Road corridor project will provide an arterial road connection east of State Highway 1 between Manukau, Papakura and Drury and includes Murphys Road improvements from Redoubt Road to Flatbush School Road. Submissions to the NOR have closed and AT is now preparing evidence for the formal hearing due at the end of August.

Services

18. Road Safety Highlights

· Over 4,000 young people and their parents have participated in the Crossroads young driver programme.

· The Oi! Mind on the road, not on the phone driver distraction campaign in May targeted 20-29yr old drivers.

· The Love Being a Local road safety campaign enabled rural communities to take a lead role in raising awareness of local speed issues.

19. Schools Travelwise Programme Highlights

· The United Nations Global Road Safety Week took place from 4 to 10 May. 146 teachers registered for Road Safety Week information and resources and 27 schools entered the competition.

· On 25 June 2015, 400 volunteers attended the Walking School Bus (WSB) megastars event to recognize the efforts of WSB volunteers.

· Recently completed research has found that crash rates involving children walking and cycling at schools with Safe School Travel Plans (SSTPs) and Active School Signage were significantly reduced by 37% after the implementation of these measures.

20. Road Safety Education in Schools: (2014/15 Year)

· 79 new Walking School Buses were established, bringing the regional total to 369 and exceeding the target of 347

· 23 schools and 1,683 students received cycle training against a target of 1500

· 4 new schools joined the Travelwise programme, creating a total of 408 schools

· 2 regional ‘Slow Down Around Schools’ campaigns were delivered

· 536 students and 77 teachers attended Travelwise Primary and Secondary school workshops

· 4 high risk schools received rail fare evasion prevention campaigns.

21. Road Safety Promotion and Training: (2014/15 Year)

· A number of Local campaigns were delivered including: 5,275 drivers through local Drink/Drive operations with NZ Police.

· The #Drunksense radio advertisement won the Outstanding Radio Creativity Award and Driver Distractions won the Social and Community Platinum Award.

22. Travel Demand (2014/15 Year)

· The ‘Commute’ programme promotes behavioural change to reduce the reliance on and impact of Single Occupancy Vehicle (SOV) trips. Focused on the morning peak period of congestion, the programme works with businesses to support public transport, carpooling and active modes of getting to work. Seventeen new organisations joined the ‘Commute’ programme, and 23 organisations progressed or launched their travel plan activities.

2014/15 Performance Outcomes

23. School Travel Trips Avoided

· The 2015 Community and Road Safety Team target of 16,700 morning car trips avoided through school travel planning activities was exceeded with 17,164 trips avoided.

· The total number of deaths and serious injuries (DSI) on Auckland Local Roads in the 2014 calendar year was 398, representing a 7.4% reduction from 2013. For the 2014 calendar year, the Auckland region had the lowest rate of road deaths and serious injuries (DSI) per capita in New Zealand – 31 DSI per 100,000 population.

Road Corridor Delivery

24. The Asset and Maintenance Group is tasked with the responsibility for a wide range of activities within the Road Corridor. These include but are not limited to:

· The Delivery of roading and streetlight maintenance and renewal programmes.

· Managing the access, co-ordination and traffic management impacts of activities taking place within the road corridor

· Promoting design innovation and efficiency around how work is carried out on the network

· The development of long term asset management plans and modelling which support the decision making process around the management of AT’s roading assets.

April – June Quarter key highlights

25 The Road Corridor Delivery Team have a year to date target (YTD) to deliver 581km of resurfacing (asphalt or chipseals), pavement renewals and footpath renewals. As outlined in figure 1, for 2014/2015 the group delivered 568km, or 98% of the planned programme.

Figure 1: Actual vs planned lengths (km) for June YTD

	YTD Planned Targets (KM)	Actuals (KM)	%
Resurfacing	427.4	418.9
Pavement Renewals	37.4	40
Footpath Renewals	116.7	110
Total	581.5	568.9	98%

26. The new Streetlighting contracts have been awarded to Downer (for Central and Southern areas) and Electrix (for North and West areas). The four new contracts align with the road maintenance contracts and replace the nine legacy contracts which have been in place until now. The new contracts are for a four year term with an additional 1+1 year right of renewal at AT’s discretion.

27. AT’s second asset management plan (AMP) covering the period 2015-2018 will be published in August 2015. This document details the strategies and management systems deployed by AT and sets out the future renewals and maintenance investment required to continue building the assets, infrastructure and delivery systems of a world-leading, transformational, sustainable and affordable urban transport service. The AMP also addresses the shortfalls that will begin to accrue if current budget levels continue over the medium to long term. Electronic copies will be available for download on the AT website and a hard copy will be sent to each Local Board.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Schedule of activities undertaken for the fourth quarter (2014/15) ending 30 June 2015	159
b View	Travelwise Schools activities broken down by Local Board	177
c View	Traffic Control Committee Decisions	179
d View	Local Board Advocacy Report	181
e View	Local Board Transport Capital Fund Report	185

Signatories

Authors	Various Auckland Transport authors
Authorisers	Jonathan Anyon, Elected Member Relationship Team Manager

Franklin Local Board

25 August 2015

Auckland Regional Amenities Funding Act (ARAFA) Funding Model Review - Local Board Input

File No.: CP2015/15565

Purpose

1. Auckland Council is undertaking a review of the funding model under the Auckland Regional Amenities Funding Act 2008 (ARAFA Funding Model Review). Feedback from the local boards is sought on the level of change proposed in the options and the impacts on local boards and local communities (if any).

Executive Summary

2. The Auckland Regional Amenities Funding Act 2008 (the Act) established a distinct model for contributing funds to specified regional amenities (regional amenities). This funding model is now under review to consider whether it remains fit for purpose and to identify how it might be improved. The Governing Body adopted Terms of Reference for the review on 26 February 2015.

3. Working closely with representatives of the regional amenities, seven funding model options were generated along a spectrum, ranging from:

· retaining the status quo

· seeking improvements within the existing ARAFA legislative framework

· modifying the existing ARAFA framework by amending legislation, to

· repealing the existing ARAFA framework and replacing it with an Auckland Council policy framework. (The options are discussed in paragraphs 15 - 32)

4. The Finance and Performance Committee endorsed the seven options for evaluation on 18 June 2015. The options will be evaluated against criteria previously endorsed by Finance and Performance on 21 May 2015. (The criteria is discussed in paragraph 14)

5. When viewed across the spectrum, the options shift the role of Auckland Council from influencing decision-making under the Act (by a Funding Board) to becoming the decision-maker itself. The closer Auckland Council becomes to being the decision-maker the more opportunities there are to align the council’s strategic outcomes with those of the regional amenities. The options also incorporate improvements relating to information flows, longer term planning, communications and relationship building.

6. The options are also associated with a progressively increasing volume of further work that would be required to implement them. The implementation of options requiring legislative change is particularly complex. The necessary trade-offs involved will be teased out and considered through the evaluation of the options.

7. The evaluation is to be completed and will be reported to the Finance and Performance Committee on 17 September 2015. The evaluation will identify the preferred option/s which may be a refined version, comprising different elements of the options proposed.

8. Local board feedback is sought on the level of change proposed in the options as set out in this report and the impacts on local boards and local communities (if any).

Recommendation/s

That the Franklin Local Board provides feedback on the level of change proposed in the options and the impacts on local boards and local communities (if any) as an input into the evaluation of options under the Auckland Regional Funding Amenities Act Funding Model Review.

Comments

The Funding Model under the Auckland Regional Amenities Funding Act 2008

9. The Auckland Regional Amenities Funding Act 2008 (the Act) has two purposes; to provide adequate, sustainable and secure funding for specified regional amenities, and to ensure that local government in Auckland contributes funding.

10. The Act came into force prior to amalgamation of Auckland’s former councils. It was designed to ensure that all councils in the region contributed fairly to funding the regional amenities given the amenities operated across and benefited the whole of the Auckland region. It also sought to ensure that qualifying regional amenities remained financially viable.

11. The regional amenities apply each year to a Funding Board for next year’s funding. The Funding Board confers with Auckland Council and prepares and consults on a funding plan, before recommending a levy to Auckland Council for the next financial year. Auckland Council approves the recommended levy and if not, arbitration takes place. The Funding Board subsequently receives the levy and allocates funding to the regional amenities.

12. Auckland Council appoints six of the Funding Board’s 10 members with four members appointed by an Amenities Board, also created by the Act.

13. Only the regional amenities specified under the Act may apply for funding and funding is not available for any part of services or facilities provided outside of the Auckland region. Funding is to contribute towards the operational expenditure that regional amenities must incur and is not available for capital expenditure.

14. The regional amenities must make all reasonable endeavours to maximise funding from other sources. The regional amenities are prohibited from receiving operating funding form Auckland Council, other than via the Funding Board. However, staff are aware that local boards may receive funding requests from groups affiliated with the amenities.

15. The Funding Board and Auckland Council must have regard to the funding principles prescribed in the Act. The Act makes provision for additional funding principles to be adopted.

Regional Amenities

16. The purpose of the Act is to ensure the regional amenities are funded to provide services or facilities that contribute to “the well-being of the whole region” and “towards making Auckland an attractive place to live in and visit”. Organisations that wish to become regional amenities must possess these qualities to satisfy criteria for admission. The Act as enacted specified 10 regional amenities in Schedule 1:

· Auckland Observatory and Planetarium Trust Board

· Auckland Philharmonia

· Auckland Regional Rescue Helicopter Trust

· Auckland Theatre Company

· Coast Guard Northern Region Incorporated

· New Zealand National Maritime Museum

· New Zealand Opera Limited

· Surf Life Saving Northern Region Incorporated

· Auckland Festival Trust

· Watersafe Auckland Incorporated

17. The following examples illustrate the way the regional amenities serve the Auckland region:

· The Auckland Philharmonia (APO) was accorded the status of Metropolitan Orchestra as part of the Ministry of Culture and Heritage’s Orchestra Review in 2012. In that year the APO presented 31 performances in the Auckland Town Hall and performed in the Bruce Mason Centre (Takapuna) Telstra Events Centre (Manukau), Massey High Schools and Trusts Stadium (West Auckland) and the Holy Trinity Cathedral (Parnell). It also presented chamber concerts in Takapuna, Remuera and Howick and five free community performances and events in west, central, north and south Auckland.

· Coast Guard Northern Region Incorporated has 14 units located across the Auckland region at Waiuku, Papakura, Titirangi, Kaipara, Kawau, Great Barrier, Hibiscus, North Shore, Auckland, Waiheke, Howick and Maraetei, with the Operations Centre and the Auckland Air Patrol operating centrally.

· Similarly, there are 10 clubs in the Auckland Region under the umbrella of Surf Life Saving Northern Region Incorporated, located at Karioitahi Beach, Karekare, Piha (2), Bethels Beach, Murawai, Omaha, Red Beach, Orewa and Mairangi Bay.

The ARAFA Funding Model Review

18. Auckland Council’s establishment and issues arising out of the Act’s operation have raised the question of ‘whether the funding model remains fit for purpose’. Auckland Council agreed to review the ARAFA Funding Model through its deliberations on the Mayor’s proposal for the 2014 Annual Plan. The Governing Body endorsed Terms of Reference (Attachment A) for this review on 26 February 2015. It records stakeholder issues and objectives (Schedule 2) and sets the overarching objective to:

“achieve long term sustainable, affordable and predictable funding of the existing amenities while recognising the Council’s purpose and responsibilities under the Local Government Act 2002 and other legislation.” (paragraph 12):

19. The ARAFA funding model and changes to enhance its effectiveness are the focus of the review:

· The review will not consider whether to add or remove any of the regional amenities from the funding mechanism. That would be a separate piece of work.

· The review will also not consider how much funding each regional amenity currently receives but rather look at the process that determines the amount of funding provided.

20. The Terms of Reference set out the basic process for the review with the identification of criteria for the evaluation of options, identification of options and their subsequent evaluation. In undertaking this review we are working closely with representatives of the amenities and engaging with the Funding Board.

Criteria for the Evaluation of Options

21. The following criteria for evaluating options were endorsed by the Finance and Performance Committee on 21 May 2015:

i. Financial sustainability and certainty

- Addresses the ‘sufficiency’ of the contribution provided by the funding model in terms of “adequate, sustainable and secure funding for specified amenities.” It includes the predictability of that funding over the short to medium terms in support of financial planning.

ii. Affordability

- Addresses the affordability of the sum of the contributions allocated under the funding model including the impact on rates.

iii. Independence and continuity

- Considers the extent to which the option provides for objective decision making and the extent it provides for continuity of decision-making over time. These considerations go to the stability of the funding model over time.

iv. Accountability and transparency

- Considers the information and the processes to support decision-making required by an option to ensure there is a clear chain of accountability from the recipient through to the funder. Transparency supports accountability, providing clarity around decision-making processes. Public sector responsibility requires accountability and transparency generally, and particularly in respect of public funds.

v. Administrative efficiency

- Considers the efficiency of the funding model, with regard to the costs associated with the information and processes required by an option. Funding arrangements should have regard to the costs of implementation, and how effective they will be in achieving their objectives.

vi. Alignment of outcomes and goals

- Considers the extent to which the option allows for alignment between the outcomes and goals sought and achieved by the regional amenities and those of the Auckland Council on behalf of Auckland’s ratepayers.

vii. Fairness

- Considers the extent to which the funding model provides for fairness.

viii. Flexibility

- Requires consideration of the extent to which the option provides a funding model with sufficient flexibility to take account of changing circumstances.

Options to Enhance Effectiveness

22. Working closely with representatives of the amenities, seven options along a spectrum have been generated, ranging from:

· retaining the status quo

· seeking improvements within the existing ARAFA legislative framework

· modifying the existing ARAFA framework by amending the legislation, to

· repealing the existing ARAFA legislative framework and replacing it with an Auckland Council policy framework.

23. The options were endorsed for evaluation by the Finance and Performance Committee on 18 June 2015.

24. Figure 1 illustrates the options and where they are located on the spectrum. Viewed across the spectrum, the options shift the role of Auckland Council from influencing the Funding Board’s decision-making to becoming the decision-maker itself. Similarly, there are increasing opportunities along the spectrum to align Auckland Council’s strategic outcomes with those of the amenities.

25. The review to date has identified that processes relating to funding bids and reporting have evolved under the existing arrangements. There appear to be further opportunities to pursue improvements through a focus on, information, communication, developing relationships and longer term planning which are being investigated through the final evaluation.

26. Implementation of the options will require further work, some of which is significant. The implementation of options requiring legislative change is particularly complex.

27. Options 1 to 4 are based on current arrangements which provide the pathway for regional amenities to seek operational funding from Auckland Council. Improvements under these options would be available for the 2016/2017 funding year.

28. Option 5 limits opportunities for Auckland Council to scrutinise the funding sought by the regional amenities, whereas Options 6 and 7 increase Auckland Council’s role in decision-making. The level of funding provided under Option 7 would be dependent on the policy and decisions of the governing body. There may therefore be a greater level of uncertainty for the regional amenities which may hold implications for the level of services and facilities they provide.

29. Options 5 to 7 require legislative change through the parliamentary process and it is not possible to indicate when they might become available for implementation.

30. The necessary trade-offs in relation to implementation will be considered through the evaluation of the options.

Figure 1.

31. Option 1 – Status Quo

The existing funding model prescribed by the Act is the benchmark against which the other options will be compared. It is described in paragraphs 1 to 7.

Seeking Improvements from within the existing ARAFA legislative framework

32. The following three options seek to introduce changes to enhance the legislative framework and the sharing of information between the regional amenities, the Funding Board and Auckland Council.

33. Option 2 – Enhanced Status Quo – ‘Clear Pathway to Capital Funding’

This option provides a ‘clear pathway for capital funding’ to augment the status quo.

While the amenities can currently apply for capital funding from Auckland Council via the Long Term Plan process, the granting of such funding is considered to be by exception. Under this option, applications for capital could be anticipated from any of the regional amenities. Potential applications would need to be signaled well ahead of time to assist financial planning and to enable the provision of funding.

34. Option 3 - Enhanced Status Quo – ‘Sustainable Funding’

This option introduces financial planning over a longer time frame with a 3 year rolling funding cycle and supporting information, and establishes how the sustainable level of funding for each regional amenity might be determined:

Introduction of a three year ‘rolling’ funding cycle

This cycle would align with Auckland Council’s Long Term Plan/Annual Plan cycle. Applications for the first year of funding (the year of application) would seek that year’s funding and identify anticipated funding for the next two years. Annual applications made in the second and third year would be considered in the light of all the relevant information then provided.

Information supporting ‘rolling’ applications

The clarity and timeframe of information accompanying applications would be reviewed to ensure it supports the rolling funding cycle.

‘Sustainability’

A definition of the sustainable level of funding would be developed for application in the context of each of the regional amenities. This would also establish appropriate levels of reserves amenities would be able to build-up and maintain to help manage the peaks and troughs of the funding requirements.

35. Option 4 – Enhanced Status Quo – ‘Alignment/Groupings’

This option similarly proposes the three year rolling review, maximises opportunities to improve strategic alignment between the regional amenities and Auckland Council and addresses the diverse range of regional amenities.

The three year ‘rolling’ funding cycle / Information supporting applications becomes available as set out in the previous option.

Auckland Council and the Funding Board confer

Auckland Council would be more explicit in clarifying its expectations, its funding constraints and its intentions when conferring with the Funding Board on the draft Funding Plan. The purpose would be to ensure transparency about the Auckland Council context and any funding constraints the council might face.

Auckland Council supports public notification

Auckland Council supports public notification of the Draft Funding Plan. The council could support the notification of the Draft Funding Plan on the council’s web site, through the media centre and/or in publications. This would help rate payers provide feedback and make submissions.

More particular consideration relevant to the type of amenity

This could include:

· Criteria and considerations as relevant to different types of amenities – e.g. safety, arts & culture, and facilities

· Clarification and guidance around what might be meant by ‘sustainability’ and the sustainable contribution required could be developed with reference to the activities undertaken by the particular regional amenities.

Modifying the existing ARAFA framework by amending legislation

36. The two following options amend the ARAFA legislative framework, proposing specific amendments to the way funding is determined or the roles of institutions and the processes through which they work.

37. Option 5 – Baseline Plus CPI

Under this option the specified amenities would determine the ‘sustainable’ level of funding required for year 1, which would be CPI adjusted for the next two years. The level of sustainable funding would then be reset for the next (4^th) year and CPI adjusted in each of the next two years.

The basis for determining the sustainable level of funding would need to be developed and the implications for the Funding Board explored.

38. Option 6 - Strong Funder

This option remaps the relationship between the regional amenities and the Auckland Council with Auckland Council providing funds directly. Under this option the ARAFA legislative framework would be amended so that:

· the regional amenities apply to Auckland Council directly for funding

· three year rolling funding cycle / supporting information applies

· Auckland Council sets the funding envelope

· Auckland Council prepares and adopts the Funding Plan

· the role of the Funding Board becomes one of providing expert advice to Auckland Council

· the regional amenities report annually to the Auckland Council.

Auckland Council sets the funding envelope

The funding envelope from which contributions to the regional amenities would be drawn would be set for the 10 year period though the Council’s Long Term Plan process. This longer term approach to funding would likely require a review of the information required in support of setting the envelope.

Auckland Council prepares and adopts the Funding Plan

The Funding Plan mechanism could be similar to the status quo or be modified in terms of the process and matters to be taken into consideration.

The role of the Funding Board

The Funding Board’s role would change to one of providing expert advice to assist Auckland Council. Appointments may still be made by Auckland Council and by the regional amenities.

Repeal of the existing ARAFA framework and replacement with an Auckland Council policy framework

39. Under this model the existing ARAFA legislative framework would be repealed and replaced with a policy framework established and maintained by Auckland Council.

40. Option 7 - Auckland Council Dedicated Fund

The repealed ARAFA legislative framework would be replaced by a specific policy of Auckland Council where:

· Auckland Council sets the funding envelope

· there is no Funding Board and the regional amenities apply to Auckland Council for funding

· Auckland Council considers applications and determines the funding allocated following public consultation

· there is separate policy and consideration for different types of amenity – for example, safety, arts & culture and facilities for example.

· a three year rolling funding cycle with supporting information would apply

· the amenities annually report to the Auckland Council.

41. This option replicates many of the policy intentions of the Strong Funder option within Auckland Council formulated policy, though without the legislation or the Funding Board. As Council policy, the funding model/policy framework would be amenable to any amendment subsequent Councils may require.

Evaluation

42. The evaluation involves considering the performance of each option against the criteria, relative to the performance of the status quo. Working closely with the amenities representatives, this process is currently underway and the results will be reported to the Finance and Performance Committee on 17 September 2015. The evaluation will identify the preferred option/s which may be a refined version, comprising different elements of the options proposed.

43. Local board feedback on the level of changes proposed in the options and the impacts on local boards and local communities (if any) is sought and will be an input into the evaluation along-side feedback received from the Funding Board and Regional Facilities Auckland.

44. From the work completed to date it is clear that Option 4- ‘Alignment/Groupings’ is compromised. The idea of grouping amenities by the nature of their operations is unworkable due to the extent of the difference between each of the regional amenities. The other features of this option continue to offer merit however and will be included in the evaluation.

45. Implementation is a particular consideration in addition to the identified criteria. With the exception of the status quo, each option will require further work to become operational. The amount of work required and the level of complexity is likely to:

· be less from options seeking improvement within existing frameworks (options 2, 3 and 4)

· increase where improvements are sought through amendments to the Act (options 5 and 6)

· further increase with the repeal of the Act and its replacement by an alternative regime (option 7).

46. Seeking amendments to or the repeal of the Act would require sponsorship by a Member of Parliament to drive it through the Parliamentary processes. These include three readings in Parliament and the Select Committee Hearings process. The Act is a private Act. A private bill seeking changes would be subject to parliamentary processes required and it is not possible to indicate the time it might take for it to be enacted.

Next Steps

47. Local Board feedback will be collated and incorporated into the final report to the Finance and Performance Committee on 17 September 2015.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

48. The ARAFA funding model review considers the funding model established under the ARAFA legislation and will not directly impact on local board funding or decision-making. However, communities across all of Auckland are able to benefit from the services and facilities provided by the amenities funded through the Act.

49. Local board views on the level of change proposed in the options and their impacts on local boards (if any) are being sought via this report. This report follows a memo circulated to Local Board Chairs in February 2015 and a briefing to Local Board Chairs and members on 22 June 2015. This report follows the structure of that briefing while elaborating on the information provided.

Māori impact statement

50. The ARAFA funding model review focuses on how Auckland Council’s funding contribution to the specified amenities is determined. Using Whiria Te Muka Tangata: The Māori Responsiveness Framework as a lens there do not appear to be any statutory or treaty obligations, direct Māori or value Te Ao Māori outcomes affected by this review. Enquiries were made of mana whenua in March 2015 to ascertain whether the ARAFA funding model review held any interest. No interests were identified.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Terms of Reference	197

Signatories

Authors

Alastair Cameron - Principal Advisor CCO Governance and External Partnerships

Wayne Brown - Lead Strategic Advisor Strategic Scanning

Authorisers

Denise O’Shaughnessy - Manager Strategic Advice

Teresa Turner - Relationship Manager

Chairperson	Andrew Baker
Deputy Chairperson	Jill Naysmith
Members	Malcolm Bell
	Alan Cole
	Brendon Crompton
	Angela Fulljames
	Sarah Higgins
	Murray Kay
	Dr Lyn Murphy

Authors	Gaylene Harvey - Democracy Advisor
Authorisers	Teresa Turner - Relationship Manager