Agenda of Howick Local Board

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

Auckland Transport Update - May 2016

File No.: CP2016/07937

Purpose

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

Executive Summary

2. This report covers matters of specific application and interest to the Howick 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 Howick Local Board’s transport capital fund

· New Half Moon Bay pier update

· Update on double decker bus impacts

· Regional signage project update.

Recommendation/s

That the Howick Local Board:

a) Receives the report entitled ‘Auckland Transport Update – May 2016’ and the attached issues register from Auckland Transport’s Elected Member Relationship Manager (South).

Comments

Howick Items

A1. Local board transport capital fund (LBTCF)

4. The Howick Local Board’s funding allocation under the LBTCF is $871,903 per annum.

5. The Board’s active projects are included in Table 1 below (NB: ROC = rough order of costs; FEC = firm estimate of cost):

Table 1:

ID#

Project Description

Progress/Current Status

009

Walkway and amenity improvements at Half Moon Bay (HMB) Marina

· Updated FEC of $477,000

· $27,000 already received from 2011/12 Local Board Discretionary budget

· Remaining budget of $450,000 approved from LBTCF

· On 8-Jun-15, the Board approved the project for construction based on a FEC estimate of $422,000, of which $395,000 would come from the LBTCF.

· On 16-Nov-15, the Board approved the increased allocation of $450,000 from the LBTCF.

· Construction began at the start of Apr-16. Civil and streetlight works are expected to be completed by the beginning of Jun-16.

155

Burswood Business Area enhancements

· Updated firm estimate of $411,770

· $104,000 received from Council’s Business Area Planning Unit

· $307,770 balance required from LBTCF

· On 10-Nov-14, the Board approved the project for construction.

· Following project tender, on 16-Nov-15, the Board approved an increased allocation of $307,770 from the LBTCF.

· Construction commenced in Jan-16. Works are largely complete, with the remainder of the plants going in over the ANZAC long weekend, leaving only the bin and seats outstanding.

217

Pigeon Mountain Road metering signals

· FEC estimate of $418,000

· On 20-Apr-15, the Board resolved that AT should proceed to complete detailed design and costing.

· On 12-Oct-15, the Board approved construction based on the firm estimate of $418,000.

· TCC approval was received in Dec-15.

· The tender is being awarded on 26-Apr-16. A communications meeting is programmed for the end of April and will determine the construction start date, estimated to be in late May.

· AT is aware this project will impact on overflow parking for ferry users at Half Moon Bay and is working pro-actively with AT and LB communications teams to inform ferry users of the works in advance.

272

Bucklands Beach walkway improvements

· ROCs for various sections (as per concept plans)

o A-B = $134,000

o B-C = $496,000

o C-D = $57,000

o D-E = $104,000

o E-F = $803,000 or $97,000*

o F-G = $324,000 or $115,000*

o G-H = $97,000

o H-I = $224,000

o I-J = $152,000

o J-K = $93,000

· Total ROC = either $2,484,000 or $1,569,000 with *alternate options

· On 14-Jul-14, the Board approved a Little Bucklands Beach walkway project to progress to detailed design and costing stage.

· On 8-Jun-15, the Board resolved to expand the scope of the project to include pedestrian improvements along the length of The Parade.

· On 13-Jul-15, concept plans showing the length of The Parade, itemising proposed pedestrian improvements in various sections and ROCs for each section were presented to the Board.

· The Board resolved to consult with the public and key stakeholders on the strategic vision for the proposed walkway improvements.

· A public meeting is scheduled for 16-May-16. AT and Council Parks are assisting with preparations for the meeting.

279

Chapel Road pedestrian signals

· FEC estimate of $261,282

· On 11-May-15, the Board approved this project for construction based on the FEC estimate of $261,282.

· TCC approval for the project was given on 3-Jul-15.

· Construction is now completed. The lights were commissioned on 7-Apr-16 and are fully operational.

· Final costs to be reported.

396

Half Moon Bay (HMB) new pier project

· Up to $2.5m originally allocated

· Further funding and NZTA subsidy application required for Stage 2 landside works

· On 13-Oct-14, the Board allocated up to $2.5m towards a new $4.3m ferry facility at HMB, subject to AT allocating at least $1m towards the project.

· NZTA subsidy approval for approximately 50% of the initial $4.3m project is confirmed.

· AT agreed that the Board’s proportion of funding for the initial $4.3m project should be abated by an equal proportion of the NZTA subsidy, meaning that $1.25m of the Board’s original allocation is definitely required.

· However, the project scope has been developed to include landside bus infrastructure enhancements as well in-scope enhancements to the ferry pier. This will result in an increased budgetary requirement which will impact on the anticipated subsidy abatement to the Board.

· A progress update is included at item A2 below.

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

Howick Local Board transport capital fund summary:

Total funding available ($871,903 p.a. across 5 FYs – 2012/13 to 2016/17)	$4,359,515
Actual costs reported for completed projects (3x driver feedback signs; Ti Rakau & Cockle Bay bus shelters; Pedestrian improvements at Meadowlands/Whitford/Millhouse; Crooks Road streetscape improvements; The Parade footpath; Highland Park Adshel double bus shelter; Point View Drive footpath; East Tamaki streetlighting upgrade)	-867,294
Firm estimates for projects given construction approval (Chapel Road pedestrian signals; Pigeon Mountain Road metering signals; HMB walkway/amenity improvements; Burswood Business Area enhancements)	-1,437,052
Confirmed LBTCF funding requirement towards initial Half Moon Bay ferry pier project (though further discussions required regarding funding of Stage 2 landside works)	-1,250,000
*Funding available to allocate* (assuming construction approval given to all projects excluding Bucklands Beach)	*$805,169*
Rough estimates on project requiring further direction (Bucklands Beach/The Parade walkway improvements - two alternate costings provided)	$2,848,000 or $1,569,000

A2. New Half Moon Bay pier update

7. The wharf design fire reports and the structural peer reports have been finalised and the building consent submitted to Auckland Council for its approval.

8. Overall costs estimates for the wharf construction and the proposed landside design works have been received and have been assessed against budget.

9. Auckland Transport is assessing the submitted tenders with reference to the project budget.

10. The project is continuing on-going engagement with Mana Whenua to confirm Te Aranga Design Principles in line with Council engagement policies.

11. The overall project is progressing with completion now scheduled for November 2016.

12. The high level programme for Half Moon Bay is:

· Marine resource consent period – June to December 2015 (completed)

· Wharf structure building consent period – December 2015 - February 2015 (completed)

· Landside resource consent – January to March 2016 (noting that landside works are subject to scope finalisation and associated funding approval) (on-going)

· Tender package release to market – February 2016 (completed)

· Physical works contractor established on site – May 2016

· Physical works – wharf and landside – April to November 2016

· Relocation of ferry service – November 2016.

A3. Update on double decker bus impacts

13. All tree pruning and service relocation works required for the introduction of double decker buses on three routes in the Howick Local Board area have now been completed, including the relocation of the streetlight in front of the bus stop at 78 Picton Street in the first week of April 2016.

14. The double decker bus project team has also identified a verandah that is within the clearance envelope for the bus stop at 111 Picton Street. Structural engineers from Opus have undertaken an initial visual inspection and will need to follow up with an intrusive inspection to determine the structural integrity of the verandah. The property owner and tenants are being informed of the expected date for the further inspection, which will be scheduled to be done at night so as not to negatively affect local business activities.

A4. Consultation documents on proposed improvements

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

16. Proposed ‘No Stopping At All Times’ (NSAAT) parking restrictions, P90 parking restrictions and right turn bay, Chapel Road, Botany Downs – Residents of the Bruce McLaren retirement village have expressed safety concerns relating to the village access on Chapel Road. To improve safety and accessibility, changes to on-street parking and road markings on Chapel Road are proposed as follows and shown on the plan at Attachment A:

· Installation of NSAAT parking restrictions 65m north and 55m south of the village access way

· Installation of 40m of P90 parking restrictions outside #807 and #809 Chapel Road

· Widening the flush median on Chapel Road from the current 2.4m up to 3.0m width to provide for the installation of a right turn bay to facilitate right turn entry and exit manoeuvres into the village.

17. Proposed partial road stopping, #333 Ormiston Road, Ormiston – Auckland Transport is progressing a partial road stopping at #333 Ormiston Road, which involves acquiring the land edged in yellow on the plan at Attachment B on the Murphys Road frontage in part exchange for the land shaded blue on the Ormiston Road frontage. This proposal will support the Murphys Road upgrading project and the partial road stopping and part exchange has been approved by the Auckland Transport Board.

18. Proposed pedestrian improvements, Botany Road/Union Road/Bradbury Road intersection, Botany Downs – Auckland Transport is proposing to improve pedestrian facilities at the roundabout at this intersection by installing pram crossings with cut-throughs on existing splitter islands on the Botany Road south and Union Road approaches to the roundabout, as shown on the plan at Attachment C. These two approaches currently have no pedestrian facilities provided.

19. Proposed new bus stops and existing bus stop improvements, Bus Routes 352 and 314 – Auckland Transport has undertaken a comprehensive review of the arrangement, spacing and facilities of bus stops along the length of Ormiston Road, Kerwyn Avenue and Lady Ruby Drive. The review was completed to identify opportunities to optimise bus stop spacing and upgrade facilities to improve service efficiency, safety and passenger convenience. The review recommended several changes as detailed below and as shown on the plans at Attachment D.

20. Existing stops proposed to be upgraded with bus stop markings are:

· Kerwyn Avenue – at numbers 48 and 82

· Lady Ruby Drive – at numbers 10 and 46

· Ormiston Road – at number 123 (also including a bus stop sign)

21. New bus stops proposed to be installed, along with concrete platforms, are:

· Kerwyn Avenue – at numbers 33 and 69

· Lady Ruby Drive – opposite numbers 10, 42 and 123.

General Information Items

B1. Regional signage project update

22. A trial of new signage is underway in several areas around Auckland.

23. A project team with representatives from different council entities is testing and identifying a single signage system that can be applied to the whole region.

24. A consistent system will make it easier for locals and visitors to explore Auckland; give Auckland's signage a consistent and modern look; visually support the aspiration to make Auckland the world’s most liveable city; and help promote active travel and healthy lifestyles.

25. Completed trial signage is on display at:

· New Lynn town centre (with a focus on public transport extended to include Fruitvale and Avondale rail stations)

· Northcote town centre

· Matiatia Ferry Terminal, Waiheke Island.

26. More work has commenced at Wynyard Quarter and around the Grafton Gully Cycleway which should be finished by mid-April.

27. Public feedback has been sought and will be open until the end of April.

28. For more information visit www.AT.govt.nz/signage

B2. Transport for Future Urban Growth (TFUG) – public consultation round two

29. Work is underway on identifying the transport needed to support the 110,000 new houses and new business areas that will be developed on greenfields land around Auckland during the next 30 years.

30. Auckland Transport is working with the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and Auckland Council on the project to agree recommended 30 year transport networks for growth around Warkworth, Dairy Flat, Silverdale, Kumeu, Huapai, Westgate, Whenuapai, Papakura and Franklin.

31. The work follows on from the identification of the future urban areas in the Proposed Auckland Unitary Plan (PAUP) and the recently adopted Future Urban Land Supply Strategy, which sets out the sequencing of when the future urban land can be developed.

32. The outcome will be a recommended 30 year strategic transport network for each future urban area that can be used to inform the Auckland Transport Alignment Project, request funding and as a planning tool by Auckland Transport, the NZTA and Auckland Council. Identifying future transport infrastructure early will also help guide developers’ plans for Special Housing Areas and other new housing or business areas.

33. Six weeks of public consultation are being carried out to help develop the recommended transport networks, including community feedback days and online feedback.

34. In the southern sector, an initial two-week round of consultation was conducted between 18 February and 3 March. During the consultation, 81% agreed with the issues and aspirations for the south. The diagram below summarises how respondents prioritised where they felt investment in transport should focus:

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35. The feedback received from engagement with key stakeholders, local boards and public consultation was used to help develop preferred transport networks for the southern growth areas, which include a mix of new or upgraded roads, upgraded state highways, optimising existing networks, new public transport and cycling infrastructure.

36. Feedback in now being sought on the draft recommended southern transport networks from local boards, other elected members, key stakeholders and the public during a four-week period running from 15 April to 13 May 2016.

37. To find out more and have a say, visit:
www.at.govt.nz/projects-roadworks/transport-for-future-urban-growth/

38. Note that there will be on-going public consultation as the transport networks and then specific projects develop.

B3. Southern Corridor Improvements project – NZTA April construction update

39. From 17 to 21 April 2016 (northbound) and from 26 April to 2 May 2016 (southbound), the Southern Motorway will be closed at night (from 9pm to 5am) between Beach Road (Papakura) and Takanini for the installation of median barriers. From the evening of 26 April, the Takanini southbound on-ramp will also be reduced to one lane.

40. Over the next month, the NZTA will be continuing to set up safe work zones in the median south of Takanini interchange. Work will continue on the installation of new barriers south of Takanini Interchange to create a safe working space for workers in the middle of the motorway, enabling work to occur during the day, rather than just at night. Work will start by removing the old median barrier and then building new road pavements and drainage over the next few months

41. The NZTA is also constructing an access road on the eastern side of the motorway, heading south from its works compound adjacent to Alfriston Road. This will enable the NZTA’s trucks to operate safely, avoiding the motorway to the greatest extent possible

42. Vegetation removal will continue where required along the shoulder on the southbound side of the motorway between the Alfriston Road overbridge and the Pahurehure Inlet. Mulching of the removed vegetation has commenced, and once these works are complete, bulk earthworks will begin in these areas.

43. Work starts to gear up over the next several weeks on the widening of the bridge over the Papakura Stream, just north of the railway line. For April, most of the work relates to creating access to the site and the construction of footings for the piers.

44. There will be ongoing truck and project vehicle movements accessing the central median work site so motorists are asked to drive with care. Truck and trailer units will be escorted by traffic control vehicles running behind to give motorists adequate warning. However, smaller vehicles will not be escorted so care is required close to the access points into the central median or the shoulder.

45. The NZTA will be doing its best to minimise effects of the project works on motorists as much as possible, and is committed to maintaining the same number of lanes in each direction for the duration of the project.

B4. Public Transport Patronage

46. The summary patronage performance for March 2016 is presented below:

47. For the 12 months to March 2016, Auckland public transport patronage totalled 81.4 million passengers, an increase of +4.1% on the previous year. March monthly patronage was 8.2 million, a decrease of -2.8% on March 2015 and -5.2% below SOI target (YTD -2.3%). March normalised adjustment was ~1.6% accounting for special event patronage, with one less number of business days and weekend days.

48. Bus services totalled 59.8 million passenger trips for the 12-months to March 2016, an increase of +0.7% on the previous year. Patronage for March 2016 was 5.9 million, a decrease of -5.8% on March 2015 and -7.4% below SOI target (YTD -4.4%). March normalised adjustment was ~ -2.2% accounting for special event patronage, with one less number of business days and one more weekend days/Public Holiday.

49. In addition to the standard normalisation, the Easter break occurred within the month of March this year resulting in a reduction of patronage ~100k for in-between days (annual leave taken either side of a public holiday). Also bus stops moved due to CRL has resulted in a downturn on both City Link and Western corridor service by ~120k. Including these extra-ordinary adjustments, bus service result for the month would be ~+3.5% on March last year.

50. Train services totalled 15.9 million passenger trips for the 12-months to March 2016, an increase of +18.6% on the previous year. Patronage for March 2016 was 1.6 million, an increase of +4.7% on March 2015 and -0.7% below SOI target (YTD +4.1%). March normalised adjustment was ~+13.8% accounting for special event patronage, with one less number of business days and one more weekend days/Public Holiday.

51. Ferry services totalled 5.7 million passenger trips for the 12-months to March 2016, an increase of +6.6% on the previous year. Patronage for March 2016 was 0.57 million, an increase of 9.2% on March 2015 and 4.6% above SOI target (YTD +0.9%). March normalised adjustment was ~11.2% accounting for special event patronage, with one less number of business days and one more weekend days/Public Holiday.

Media Items

C1. Auckland’s electric trains reach two significant milestones

52. Since they were introduced in April 2014, Auckland’s electric trains have covered now four million kilometres across the Auckland network – that’s the equivalent of travelling 100 times around the world – and annual passenger numbers have reached 16 million.

53. Auckland Transport chairman Dr Lester Levy says that with annual growth in passenger numbers of 20%, Aucklanders have clearly taken to the new trains.

54. “The growth in numbers using the trains has exceeded all expectations, we now have a rail system which has progressed and is set to get better. Using the trains is now part of everyday life for thousands of us,” said Dr Levy.

55. Passenger numbers are projected to continue to grow. Next month service levels will increase on the Western Line with six trains an hour at peak time to cope with demand, and work on the City Rail Link (CRL) is now almost a reality with ground works about to start.

56. The improvement in rail infrastructure is also having a financial spin-off. CRL and the upgrades of suburban stations are already having an impact, with major capital development starting to occur along the rail corridor which will result in new businesses, homes and jobs.

C2. A transformation for Devonport Wharf

57. As part of its new Metro retail strategy Auckland Transport has leased out the newly refurbished Northern Pavilion of Devonport Wharf, and Auckland restauranteurs Alex Isik and Nigar Ivgen will transform the area into a new restaurant-bar-café concept called Devon on the Wharf.

58. Devon on the Wharf will be the newest addition to their culinary chain which includes the popular Deco Eatery in Titirangi and Bodrum Kitchen in New Lynn.

59. The space at Devonport is the first part of Auckland Transport’s retail strategy for public transport facilities. One of the key objectives of the strategy is to enhance the experience for customers currently using public transport (AT Metro) facilities and to attract new users to AT Metro facilities as part of improvements across public transport to ultimately support and build on the momentum of the recent record growth in public transport use in Auckland.

60. The letting agreement follows a substantial refurbishment of the north end and surrounding public areas of Devonport Wharf by Auckland Transport. Improvements include the upgrade of Marine Square and a new boardwalk and central entrance which will further enhance connectivity between the wharf and Devonport village.

61. Fit-out works will commence next month and the restaurant is due to open in July.

C3. Redoubt Road – Mill Road Corridor upgrade

62. The Redoubt Road – Mill Road Corridor upgrade in south Auckland reached a major milestone on 19 April, with Auckland Transport announcing it had accepted a recommendation by planning commissioners to confirm the land requirements for the project.

63. Independent commissioners had recommended in February that the designation for the land be confirmed, along with a number of conditions to manage the effects of the project. The commissioners concluded that that upgrading the Redoubt-Mill Road corridor is necessary to relieve existing and forecast congestion, accommodate planned growth, provide for alternative modes of transport, improve traffic safety and improve the transport network’s efficiency, and found that the effects of the project can be appropriately avoided, remedied or mitigated.

64. Measures to manage the effects include building 17m and 23m high viaducts above native bush at Puhinui Creek gully and South Mill Road gully, as well as about 22,000 square metres of native planting.

65. Auckland Transport has accepted the commissioners’ recommendation to designate and the conditions for the project in full.

66. Submitters have 15 working days to appeal the decision to the Environment Court following being informed by Auckland Council of the decision.

67. For more information on the project, visit the Redoubt Road – Mill Road Corridor website at www.at.govt.nz/projects-roadworks/redoubt-road-mill-road-corridor/

Issues Register

68. The regular monthly issues register is Attachment E to this report.

Consideration

Local Board Views

69. The Howick Local Board’s views will be incorporated during consultation on any proposed schemes.

Implementation Issues

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

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Plan of proposed 'No Stopping At All Times' parking restrictions, P90 parking restrictions and right turn bay, Chapel Road, Botany Downs	63
b View	Plan of proposed partial road stopping, #333 Ormiston Road, Ormiston	65
c View	Plan of proposed pedestrian improvements, Botany Road/Union Road/Bradbury Road intersection, Botany Downs	67
d View	Plan of proposed new bus stops and existing bus stop improvements, Bus Routes 352 and 314	69
e View	Issues Register - Howick Local Board - May 2016	77

Signatories

Authors

Jenni Wild – Elected Member Relationship Manager (South); Auckland Transport

Authorisers

Jonathan Anyon – Elected Member Relationship Team Manager; Auckland Transport

Angeline Barlow - Relationship Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

Auckland Transport Quarterly Update to Local Boards

File No.: CP2016/07959

Purpose

1. The purpose of this report is to inform local boards about progress on activities undertaken by Auckland Transport (AT) in the three months 1 January – 31 March 2016.

Attachments include:

A – Auckland Transport activities

B – Travelwise Schools activities

C – Decisions of the Traffic Control Committee

D – Report against local board advocacy issues.

Recommendation/s

That the Howick Local Board:

a) Receives the Auckland Transport Quarterly Update to Local Boards report.

Significant activities during the period under review

Strategy and Planning

2. Transport for Future Urban Growth (TFUG)

Under the new business case approach, AT has received approved funding to develop growth related Programme Business Cases (PBCs) to identify the transport infrastructure needed within the next 30 years for the following growth areas identified in Auckland Council's Future Urban Land Supply Strategy: Northwest, Southern, Northern and Warkworth.

A multi-disciplinary and cross organisational team has been established on these four growth areas and is currently working from a co-located space. Councillors, local boards, iwi, developers and other stakeholders have been informed and public consultation has taken place. Sequencing Workshops were scheduled for 22-23 March and the second round of public consultation scheduled from 15 April.

3. Central Access Strategy

A Programme Business Case for the Central Access Plan (Isthmus to City Centre) is jointly being developed with New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) and Auckland Council. It is anticipated that a preferred programme which identifies a series of interventions to resolve growing bus patronage demands against corridor/terminus capacity constraints will be provided to the NZTA Board in May for their approval.

Public Transport (PT) Development

4. City Rail Link

Enabling Works ECI Contract 2, construction of pipe jack (services relocation) commenced (Albert Street) 21 December 2015; Enabling Works Contract 1, Britomart to Lower Albert Street and Contract 2, Lower Albert Street to Wyndham Street, to commence in May 2016. Main Works: Construction start 2018/19 FY subject to funding agreement with Government.

5. Double Decker Network Mitigation works

Mitigation works on identified risks for Double decker buses such as building verandas, street furniture, signage, low hanging power/phone lines, service poles, overhanging trees, and low bridge structures to allow the safe passage of double decker buses. Botany route is cleared for double decker bus with some minor works on defects list to be completed. Mt Eden and Northern Express bus routes to be cleared in March 2016.

6. PT Safety, Security and Amenity

An evaluation is underway of the benefits of installing ticket barriers at selected stations on the network to improve safety and security. Current projectsinclude completion of Ellerslie Station canopies, upgrade to Morningside Level Crossing and electronic gating at Manurewa Station. Onboard train digital information screens will commence testing in April.

PT Facilities Infrastructure Development

7. Wharf Renewals

Design is currently underway on a number of urgent wharf renewal project requests received from AT Metro (25th Feb). These are targeted to be completed by 30 June 2016. AT is on track to deliver these.

8. Bus Infrastructure Improvements

AT is still on target to spend the $4.7m budget. A significant number of physical works will be undertaken over May and June.

PT Operations

9. Highlights for the quarter

Rail patronage growth continues at around 20% year-on-year, and the month of March saw more than 1.6 million passenger journeys on the network, the highest month on record. Service delivery has maintained levels of around 95% of services arriving at the destinations on-time. The new operator tender process has been placed on hold, with the current contract with Transdev being conditionally extended for a period of up to 12-24 months, while the impacts on the rail services contract of long term projects such as CRL are assessed.

10. Integrated Fares

The 28 February 2016 annual AT Metro fare review included final fare zone boundary alignment between bus and rail prior to mid-2016 integrated fares implementation, including alignment at Orakei of two zone rail from the CBD with the existing two zone bus and removal of the inner CBD and airport mini-zones. An independent review of the proposed integrated fares product structure and price modelling by Deloitte is nearing completion and will support a final recommendation to the AT Board in April.

Road Design and Development

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

Future proofing of the SMART route on Kirkbride (trench) intersection is progressing together with the infrastructure works by Highway Network Operations of NZTA. This element of the project is expected to be complete in 2022. A funding application is in progress with NZTA and the team is working with the East West team to ensure the projects are well aligned at the critical points. The indicative business case is being updated for light and heavy rail. The cycle strategy for the wider Mangere area is underway.

Services

12. Whangaparaoa Road Dynamic Lane Trial

In the last quarter, designs for the trial along Whangaparaoa Road (between Red Beach Road and Hibiscus Coast Highway) have been assessed. A driver behaviour survey was undertaken, to understand perceptions of the trial and responses to a simplified scheme using just Light Emitting Diode (LED) in road markings. The purpose of this was to test reactions and guide design requirements for signage and LED requirements. The survey illustrated 21 scenarios with different markings and LED lights along the route (i.e. no signage or overhead lane control arrows were assumed).

The outcome of the survey showed the following:

Positives recognised:

· Improves traffic flow

· Flexible traffic control

· Better use of road space

· Increases road capacity

Concerns raised:

· Confusing

· Accident risk

· Unclear (lane direction) – Need clear signage

· Need to educate

Understanding gained from the driver perception survey and traffic condition surveys will be applied to the design before consultation is undertaken.

13. Auckland Bike Challenge

The Auckland Bike Challenge was undertaken in February encouraging businesses and workplaces to support staff to cycle. The month-long online challenge has had a significant success in encouraging greater uptake of cycling in Auckland. It has been well supported by key stakeholders including Healthy Auckland Together, Auckland Regional Public Health, the Sustainable Business Network and Bike Auckland. A total of 166 workplaces took part, and over 2,860 people registering to ride a bike in February including 600 new cyclists. A total of 23,111 trips were logged amounting to over 329,374 km travelled by bike.

14. Personalised Journey Planning for commuters

Three Personalised Journey Planning (PJP) projects are underway in Kingsland/ Morningside, Hauraki/Belmont and Stonefields residential areas. These are key areas for commuters to the city centre and reflect congested corridors on the network. Residents in each area who currently drive alone in peak times were offered personalised journey planning advice on other suitable modes of transport, and those that commit to trialling a new option are provided with supporting incentives. The goal of these projects is to encourage residents to make a long-term change, supporting modal share changes and reducing morning peak congestion.

15. Safer Communities

The Safer Communities programme is now underway with the Community and Road Safety team working more intensively in high risk communities to increase safe access to active and sustainable transport modes. The Community Transport team has delivered two safer Communities workshops for lead teacher and school management. These workshops were designed to provide information on the new delivery model for high risk communities and were very successful with 21 school attending. This was followed by two lead teacher workshops for the schools outside of the high risk communities.

16. Walking School Bus – Walking School Bus Week 15-19 February

Pedestrian safety is a high priority in the Auckland Region with an upward trend in Deaths and Serious Injuries (DSI) over the past five years. The Walking School Bus (WSB) Programme has an important role in improving pedestrian safety around schools while also reducing morning peak congestion. The Community and Road Safety team developed and delivered the first regional WSBs promotion week for primary schools across the Auckland region. The key objective was to raise awareness of the benefits of the programme and seek more participation from parents and students, as well as highlighting the road safety benefits the programme brings.

Currently, 154 schools in Auckland have WSBs (out of 345 total schools in Auckland with primary aged students) with over 4000 children on WSB routes and more than 1000 volunteers. During WSB Week, more than 4900 students registered to participate in themed days across the week. AMI Insurance sponsored Thursday’s ‘Be Bright Be Seen’ theme day with guest walkers including Jerome Kaino and Police dogs, who walked with WSBs across the region. WSB Week was a great success with positive media promotion including interviews on Radio Live, Stuff.co.nz, and articles in local papers.

Road Corridor Delivery (RCD)

17. The Assets 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 our roading assets.

18. RCD Key Highlights

In the 2015/2016 financial year, AT is planning to deliver 37.7 km of pavement rehabilitation, 480.1 km of resurfacing (including 88.9 km of hotmix and 391.2 km of chip seal), 75.7 km of footpath renewals and 82.7 km of kerb and channel replacement.

Table 1: Progress against Asset Renewal Targets

Note* data is to February 2016

19. The team is 81% of the way through its Pavement Rehabilitation projects. Table 2 following outlines where key projects have been completed.

Table 2: Completed Rehabilitation Projects

20. The following table outlines the key priojects which are currently underway and are due for completion in Quarter 4.

Table 3: Rehabilitation Projects still underway

21. Year 5 (2015/16) of the UFB rollout is continuing and planning for Year 6 (2016/17) has already commenced.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Schedule of activities undertaken for the third quarter (2015/16) Ending 31 March 2015	85
b View	Travelwise Schools activities broken down by local board	97
c View	Traffic Control Committee Decisions broken down by local board	99
d View	Local Board Advocacy Report	101

Signatories

Authors

Various Auckland Transport authors

Authorisers

Jenni Wild, Elected Member Relationship Manager, Auckland Transport

Jonathan Anyon, Manager Elected Member Relationship Unit, Auckland Transport

Angeline Barlow - Relationship Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

Howick Local Board Quick Response, Round Four, 2015/2016

File No.: CP2016/04101

Purpose

1. The purpose of this report is to present applications received for Howick Local Board Quick Response Grants round four. The local board is required to fund, part-fund or decline these applications.

Executive Summary

2. The Howick Local Board has set a total community grants budget of $220,000 for the 2015/2016 financial year.

3. A total of $115,199.57 has been allocated to date leaving a balance of $104,800.43 for the remaining 2015/2016 financial year.

4. Nine applications were received in the third round of quick response, with a total amount requested of $12,075

Recommendation/s

That the Howick Local Board:

a) consider the applications listed in Table One and agree to fund, part-fund or decline each application in this round.

Table One: Howick Local Board Round Four Quick Response Grant Applications

App number	Organisation Name	Focus	Project	Total Requested
QR1607-408	Riverhills School Parent Teacher Association (PTA)	Arts and culture	Riverhills School PTA Welcome Mural	$1,000
QR1607-404	Howick Art Group Incorporated	Arts and culture	Arts programme to promote art in Howick	$1,395
QR1607-405	Manukau Concert Band	Arts and culture	“Bb” Tuba	$2,000
QR1607-403	Age Concern Counties Manukau Inc	Community	Prepaid envelopes to send information to older people, their carers and whanau	$2,000
QR1607-410	Youthline Auckland Charitable Trust	Community	Equipping youth workers to support Howick youth	$2,000
QR1607-406	Friends of Mangemangeroa	Environmental	Mangemangeroa Animal Pest Reduction	$1,800
QR1607-407	Cession Community Trust	Events	Halloween Carboot Party	$810
QR1607-413	Cession Community Trust	Events	Easter Egg Hunt	$635
QR1607-414	Cession Community Trust	Events	Aotearoa Christmas	$435
			Total requested	$12,075

Comments

5. The implementation of the new Community Grants Policy commenced on 1 July 2015. The policy supports each local board to adopt a grants programme for 2015/2016 and the Howick Local Board adopted its grants programme on 20 April 2015 (see Attachment A).

6. The local board grants programme sets out:

· local board priorities

· lower priorities for funding

· exclusions

· grant types, the number of grant rounds and when these will open and close

· any additional accountability requirements.

7. The Howick Local Board will operate five quick response and two local grants rounds for this financial year.

8. The new community grant programmes have been extensively advertised through the new council grant webpage, local board webpages, local board e-newsletters and Facebook pages, council publications, radio, local newspapers and community networks. Staff have conducted a series of public workshops in local board areas, which have been attended by approximately 1000 people across the Auckland region.

9. The Howick Local Board has set a total community grants budget of $220,000 for the 2015/2016 financial year.

10. A total of $115,199.57 has been allocated to date leaving a balance of $104,800.43 for the remaining 2015/2016 financial year.

11. Nine applications were received in the third round of quick response, with a total amount requested of $12,075

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

12. Local boards are responsible for the decision-making and allocation of local board community grants. The Howick Local Board is required to fund, part-fund or decline these grant applications against the local board priorities identified in the local board grant programme.

13. The board is requested to note that section 48 of the Community Grants Policy states “We will also provide feedback to unsuccessful grant applicants about why they have been declined, so they will know what they can do to increase their chances of success next time.”

Māori impact statement

14. The provision of community grants provides opportunities for all Aucklanders to undertake projects, programmes, activities that benefit a wider range of individuals and groups, including Maori. As a guide for decision-making, in the allocation of community grants, the new community grants policy supports the principle of delivering positive outcomes for Maori.

Implementation

15. The allocation of grants to community groups is within the adopted Long Term Plan 2015-2025 and local board agreements.

16. Following the Howick Local Board allocating funding for round four quick response, Commercial and Finance staff will notify the applicants of the local board’s decision.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Howick Local Board Grants Programme 2015/2016	107
b	Howick Quick Resposne Round Four, Application summaries (Under Separate Cover)

Signatories

Authors

Fua Winterstein - Community Grants Advisor

Authorisers

Marion Davies - Community Grants Operations Manager

Jennifer Rose - Operations Support Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

Youth Facility Feasibility Study: Allocating Funding From Youth Funding Budget

File No.: CP2016/05287

Purpose

1. Approve funding for a youth facility feasibility study.

Executive Summary

2. The Howick Youth Council are the primary channel through which the views of Howick youth are considered by the board. Issues facing youth across Auckland include a lack of connectivity, a lack of opportunities and the need for a safe environment.

3. In Howick particularly, social and geographic isolation affect young people due to the physical size of the Howick and young people’s inability to travel easily within the area.

4. The Youth Council and the local board strive to overcome these barriers to support the local board plan outcome of ‘an involved and connected community’.

5. In 2015, the Howick Youth Council asked the local board to consider establishing a youth facility in the local board area. The local board set aside $30,000 for a feasibility study to look into look into the proposal further (HW/2015/92).

6. In 2015, council staff advised a social research organisation to begin work on the feasibility study. Since that time, it has become apparent that correct process requires proposals to be submitted by a number of providers, from which a successful proposal is chosen.

7. In February 2016, staff requested, received and assessed three proposals to carry out the feasibility study. The proposals were also discussed with the local board at a workshop on 17 March 2016. This report summarises and compares the three proposals, to support the board in choosing a provider.

Recommendation/s

That the Howick Local Board:

a) approve funding to either Synergia, Co-CreatioNZ or Innovate Change to undertake a youth facility feasibility study.

Comments

8. I am Auckland identifies the following key objectives for young people and children:

· safety

· opportunity for education

· skills.

9. The Howick Youth Council has focussed on the issues of connectivity and opportunity. The Youth Council highlighted that there is no place for young people of school-going age to come together. (There are places for children and for 18+ but nowhere for the in between age group.)

10. The Youth Council approached the local board in 2014 regarding the potential for a place to ‘hang out’ that would have youth workers who could assist with activities.This was the Zeal model that had been set up in West Auckland (http://zeal.nz/).

11. The Youth Council expressed that, due to Howick’s size and limited public transport, a youth facility would need to be in a central location that young people could easily access.

Funding for a feasibility study

12. The local board wish to investigate the Youth Council’s proposal further. The local board allocated $30,000 in the 2015/2016 Arts, Community and Events Work Programme for a youth facilities feasibility study to be undertaken (HW/2015/92).

13. The study will look into whether a specific youth facility is the most effective way to create ‘an involved and connected community’ for young people, or whether there are other options which may prove more effective and efficient.

Proposals to undertake the feasibility study

14. In February 2016, staff received three proposals from organisations specialising in community research. Staff assessed the proposals by looking at the organisations’ experience, their proposed methodologies, and their resources available to undertake further work if required.

15. The assessment scores are shown in Table One below. All scores shown are an average across three assessors.

Table One: assessment of proposals to undertake youth facility feasibility study
	Synergia		Co-CreateNZ		Innovate Change
	Comment	Score	Comment	Score	Comment	Score
Experience and track record	Work with youth programmes evaluation - Waitamata DHB and Ministry of Social Development. Experience co-designing with youth	82	Experience working with youth as teachers and school guidance teachers	85	Developed youth health model, Counties Manukau Health. Co-designed a pop up youth space in Te Hiku (Kaitaia) with local young people	87
Resources		80		77		80
Methodology	Limited consultations, yes to co-design	82	Limited consultation and possibility of co-design	78	High level of consultation and co-design	85
Total score		325		320		336

16. In addition to scoring the quality of the proposals, staff also gave consideration to secondary criteria. These were:

· the organisations’ knowledge of the local area

· their knowledge of key stakeholders for the project (such as local youth organisations), and

· the proposals’ fit within the available budget of $30,000.

17. Table two below summarises the proposals’ performance against these criteria.

Table Two: Secondary assessment criteria
Knowledge of local area	Yes	Yes	Yes
Knowledge of key stakeholders	Not at this stage	Yes	Not at this stage
Price and fit with budget	$27,050 Came in under budget	$30,000 Fit just within budget	$45,950 $15,000 over budget

18. Staff recommend the local board consider the assessment information included in tables One and Two and allocate funding to one of the three providers.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

19. On 17 March 2016, the assessments of the three proposals were presented at a local board portfolio meeting, where they were discussed by local board members. The local board expressed a desire for the project to begin promptly.

Māori impact statement

20. The successful provider will be required to look at the needs of local rangatahi in terms of connectivity and access. This may include approaching Mana whenua and mataawaka.

21. This project supports improved outcomes for rangatahi through enhancing their future wellbeing. It aligns to Te Toa Takitini Whai Painga – Maori Social Wellbeing outcomes:

· Māori communities are connected and safe, and

· Māori enjoy a high quality of life.

Implementation

22. Following the local board’s selection of a preferred provider, the Community Empowerment Unit will complete the procurement process to enable the study to begin.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

Signatories

Authors

Christine Olsen - Community Empowerment Manager

Authorisers

Graham Bodman - General Manager Arts, Community and Events

Angeline Barlow - Relationship Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

New Road Name Approval for the residential subdivision by Botany Mews Consortium at 49 to 55 and 59 Point View Drive, East Tamaki Heights

File No.: CP2016/07326

Purpose

1. The purpose of this report is to seek approval from the Howick Local Board, for a new road name for a road created by way of subdivision at 49 to 55 and 59 Point View Drive, East Tamaki Heights.

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 ‘Fortune Place’ and ‘Fortuna Place’ were determined to meet the road naming guideline criteria. ‘Highland View Place’ (Applicant’s preferred road name), is not preferable as it is considered too long for the length of the proposed access lot and therefore may result in cartographic problems.

4. Local iwi groups were consulted and there were five responses at the writing of this report. The majority of iwi groups deferred to Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki, who acknowledged the email but did not give their opinion on the proposed road names.

5. The names ‘Fortune Place’ and ‘Fortuna Place’ are considered for approval by the Local Board.

Recommendation/s

That the Howick Local Board, pursuant to section 319(1)(j) of the Local Government Act 1974, considers for approval, the road name ‘Fortune Place’, proposed by the Applicant, for the new road created by way of subdivision at 49 to 55 and 59 Point View Drive, East Tamaki Heights while noting that ‘Fortuna Place’, also meets the road naming criteria.

Comments

6. The Auckland Council Road Naming Guidelines allow 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 the Local Board’s approval.

7. The road to be named is a straight and short private way (Lot 201) which connects to Lot 200 as a cul-de-sac at approximately 80m in length. This 11 lot subdivision was granted consent under resource consent 46987, SP11806 in 2015.

The Applicant has proposed the following names for consideration for the road created as part of the development at 49 to 55 and 59 Point View Drive, East Tamaki Heights.

Preference	Proposed New Road Name	Meaning
Preferred Name	Highland View Place	It is considered that this name reflects the topography of the area and the views from the properties accessed off this road, as the road within Lot 201 extends eastward, up the slopes of East Tamaki Heights, with views out over East Tamaki, towards Tamaki Straight.
First Alternative	Fortune Place	The Applicants feel that the reference to prosperity and abundance (with Fortuna being the Roman goddess of Luck) is an appropriate positive reference for a road name. These names represent their confident and progressive outlook on the future of Auckland and of the neighbourhood in the immediate locality.
Second Alternative	Fortuna Place

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 ‘Highland View Place’ does not meet all the criteria of the road naming guidelines as it is considered too long for the length of the proposed access lot and may result in cartographic problems.

The proposed alternate names ‘Fortune Place’ and ‘Fortuna Place’ comply with all the criteria of the road naming guidelines.

11. The proposed suffix of “Place” is appropriate in this circumstance, as the road is a short enclosed roadway (cul-de-sac). Other suffixes also meet the definition, being: “Close”, “Court” and “Way”. The Applicant’s preference was “Place”.

12. As the Applicant’s first alternative name ‘Fortune Place’ meets the criteria, it is recommended for consideration for approval while noting that ‘Fortuna Place’ is also appropriate as it also complies with all the criteria of the road naming guidelines.

Consideration

Significance of Decision

13. The decision sought from the Howick 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 Howick 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 of the relevant iwi groups and there were five responses at the time of writing this report. Tamaki Makaurau Tribal Trust, Ngati Tamaoho and Te Kawerau deferred their response to Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki who were contacted 10 March 2016 and then again 21 March 2016, but have not yet given their opinion. Ngaati Whanaunga raised concerns regarding land confiscation from Maori, however no further correspondence was received after the Applicant responded with the history of the land. Ngati Tamaoho also raised concerns regarding land confiscation, however deferred overall to Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki. No other responses were received and no names were proposed by iwi.

16. New Zealand Post was consulted and indicated that all proposed road names 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 Howick 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

Debby Blackburn - Resource Consent Administrator

Authorisers

Ian Smallburn - General Manager Resource Consents

Angeline Barlow - Relationship Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

New Road Name Approval for the residential subdivision by Botany Mews Consortium at 49 to 55 and 59 Point View Drive, East Tamaki Heights

File No.: CP2016/07366

Purpose

1. The purpose of this report is to seek approval from the Howick Local Board, for a new road name for a road created by way of subdivision at 49 to 55 and 59 Point View Drive, East Tamaki Heights.

Executive Summary

3. Following assessment against the road naming criteria, the road name ‘Roxborough Place’ (Applicant’s preferred road name) was determined to meet the road naming guideline criteria. The alternative names proposed, ‘Thorburn Place’ and ‘Suttcliffe Place’ did not meet the road naming criteria as they repeat within the Auckland Region.

4. Local iwi groups were consulted and there were five responses at the writing of this report. The majority of iwi groups deferred to Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki, who confirmed that they had no issues with the proposed road names.

5. The name ‘Roxborough Place’ is considered for approval by the Local Board.

Recommendation/s

That the Howick Local Board, pursuant to section 319(1)(j) of the Local Government Act 1974, considers for approval, the road name ‘Roxborough Place’, proposed by the Applicant, for the new road created by way of subdivision at 49 to 55 and 59 Point View Drive, East Tamaki Heights.

Comments

7. The road to be named is a straight road (Lot 200) which connects to Point View Drive to serve 21 lots. This subdivision was granted consent under resource consent 46987, SP11806 in 2015.

The Applicant has proposed the following names for consideration for the road created as part of the development at 49 to 55 and 59 Point View Drive, East Tamaki Heights.

Preference	Proposed New Road Name	Meaning
Preferred Name	Roxborough Place	The landowners have conducted research into the background of the area, and would like to name the road after one of the family farms that were located around Point View Drive area. Harry Roxborough was one of those historic landowners.
First Alternative	Thorburn Place	Maurice Thorburn was also a historic landowner in the area.
Second Alternative	Suttcliffe Place	Thomas Suttcliffe purchased a large landholding in the East Tamaki Heights area between 1864 and 1878.

Figure One: Location and Layout of new Road

Decision Making

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 ‘Roxborough Place’ meets all the criteria of the road naming guidelines. However, it is noted that the name ‘Thorburn Place’ does not comply as the name is repeated within Auckland Council’s boundary, as ‘Thorburn Avenue’ in Red Beach. Similarly, ‘Suttcliffe Place’ is also repeated, as ‘Sutcliffe Place’ in Otara.

11. The proposed suffix of “Place” is appropriate in this circumstance, as the road is a short, enclosed roadway. Other suffixes also meet the definition, being: “Close”, “Court” and “Way”. The Applicant’s preference was “Place”.

12. As the Applicant’s preferred name ‘Roxborough Place’ meets the criteria, it is recommended for consideration for approval while noting that the alternative names ‘‘Thorburn Place’ and ‘Suttcliffe Place’ did not meet the road naming criteria.

Consideration

Significance of Decision

13. The decision sought from the Howick 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

Consultation

15. The Applicant has emailed all of the relevant iwi groups and there were five responses at the time of writing this report. Tamaki Makaurau Tribal Trust, Ngati Tamaoho and Te Kawerau deferred their response to Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki who confirmed that they have no issues with these names. Ngaati Whanaunga raised concerns regarding the potential for the families who the roads are named after to have received the land after it was confiscated from Maori, however, no further correspondence was received after the Applicant responded with the history of the land (an excerpt from Howick Ranges: A History of Point View Drive (2008) by John Peat). Ngati Tamaoho also raised concerns regarding land confiscation, however deferred overall to Ngai Tai Ki Tamaki. No other responses were received and no alternative names were proposed by iwi groups.

16. New Zealand Post was consulted and indicated that Suttcliffe is in use in a neighbouring postcode area and is not recommended. However, the remaining proposed road names 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 Howick 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

Virginia Loh - Resource Consents Administrator

Authorisers

Ian Smallburn - General Manager Resource Consents

Angeline Barlow - Relationship Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

Howick Local Board Dog Access Review

File No.: CP2016/06568

Purpose

1. To adopt the statement of proposal containing proposed changes to local dog access rules for the Howick Local Board area; and appoint a hearings panel to receive, hear and deliberate on submissions on the statement of proposal.

Executive Summary

2. Dog access rules help ensure positive interactions between dogs and people in public places and the protection of wildlife. For non-dog owners this typically relates to dogs not causing a nuisance, and for dog owners being able to enjoy an outing with their dogs.

3. Dog access rules need to be easy to understand to the public. In deciding local dog access rules, local boards may want to consider decisions made to date by other local boards. Simple dog access rules across the region aids in increasing public understanding and enforcement.

4. At its December 2015 meeting, the Howick Local Board resolved to undertake a review of local dog access rules in 2016 (HW/2015/181). As part of the review process, the local board must adopt a statement of proposal for public consultation, and consider submissions to the proposal before making a final decision.

5. Staff recommend the following changes to the Howick Local Board dog access rules to achieve a balance between the protection of wildlife, providing for public safety and comfort and the needs of dog owners. The proposed changes are:

· to prohibit dog access along the foreshore from Waakaaranga Creek to Highbrook Creek, including Pakuranga Creek; and at Mangemangeroa reserve and Chrisbury Terrace Reserve, for the protection of wildlife (Table 7, Attachment A)

· to amend the time and season rule and apply it to six beaches (Table 8, Attachment A)

· to introduce under control off a leash access to Musick Point Esplanade Reserve, and provide 100 dog friendly areas across the local board area, to provide for the recreational needs of dog owners and their dogs (Table 9, Attachment A)

· to introduce under control on a leash access along the walkway and reserve along Waakaaranga Creek to Highbrook Creek, including Pakuranga Creek for the protection of wildlife (Table 10, Attachment A)

· to introduce under control on a leash access to Tainui Reserve, adjacent to Cockle Bay Beach for public safety and comfort (Table 10, Attachment A)

· the removal of dog access rule ‘under control on a leash in any farm paddock in a park occupied by stock’ for clarity in dog access rules.

6. Staff will update the statement of proposal where required to reflect the decisions made by the local board.

7. Staff recommend that the local board appoints a panel of the whole to receive, hear and deliberate on submissions and other relevant information, and decide on changes to the local dog access rules.

8. Public consultation is proposed to start in June 2016 to coincide with dog registration. Local Board deliberation is planned to be completed in time for its decision to be reported to the Governing Body in September 2016.

Recommendation/s

That the Howick Local Board:

a) Adopt the following options in relation to the Howick Local Board dog access rules:

i) identify the areas within Table 7 of statement of proposal (Attachment A) as highly sensitive areas where dogs are prohibited

ii) identify the areas within Table 8 of statement of proposal (Attachment A) as high use areas subject to the following time and season rules:

Summer (Labour Weekend until 31 March)
Before 10am	10am to 7pm	After 7pm
Under control off a leash	Prohibited	Under control off a leash
Winter (1 April until Friday before Labour Weekend)
Before 10am	10am to 4pm	After 4pm
Under control off a leash	Under control on a leash	Under control off a leash

iii) identify the areas within Table 9 of statement of proposal (Attachment A) as dog friendly areas where dogs are allowed under control off a leash

iv) identify the areas within Table 10 of statement of proposal (Attachment A) as standard areas where dogs are allowed under control on a leash

v) remove the specific rules for under control on a leash for farm paddocks occupied by stock.

b) Confirm its intention to amend the Auckland Council Policy on Dogs 2012 pursuant to section 10(8) of the Dog Control Act 1996.

c) Confirm that the proposed amendments contained (a):

i) are consistent with the policy, principles, criteria and rules contained in the Auckland Council Policy on Dogs 2012

ii) are in accordance with relevant legislative requirements in particular the Local Government Act 2002 and Dog Control Act 1996.

d) Authorise the Manager Social Policy and Bylaws, in consultation with the local board chair, to make any amendments to the Statement of Proposal to reflect decisions made by the local board.

e) Authorise the Manager Social Policy and Bylaws to make any minor edits or amendments to the Statement of Proposal to correct any identified errors or typographical edits.

f) Appoint a panel of the whole to receive, hear and deliberate on submissions and other relevant information and decide on changes to the local dog access rules.

Background

9. In 2012, Auckland Council adopted a new policy and bylaw on dogs. Region-wide dog access rules were adopted for particular types of areas, such as playgrounds, sports surfaces and roads. Local boards have the delegated responsibility to review dog access rules for local park, beach and foreshore areas.

10. In deciding local dog access rules, local boards may want to consider decisions made to date by other local boards. Simple dog access rules across the region aids in increasing public understanding and enforcement.

11. To assist local boards with the review of local dog access rules, the governing body established a standard annual process, as outlined in Table 1.

12.

Table 1 Standard annual process for dog access rules review

13. At its December 2015 meeting, the Howick Local Board resolved to undertake a review of local dog access rules in 2016 (HW/2015/181). It resolved the scope of the dog access review to include local beaches and foreshore areas, as well as a targeted review of parks and practical off leash areas.

14. In developing the Howick Local Board Statement of Proposal, staff gathered feedback on dog access rules from:

· council staff (i.e. parks advisors, animal management officers and biodiversity and biosecurity advisors) (Attachment E and F)

· key Māori stakeholders through a hui in March 2015

· residents and visitors through an on-line survey in March 2016.

15. The online survey had 386 respondents, of which 98 per cent were local to the board area; 64 per cent identified as non-dog owners and 36 per cent identified as dog owners.

16. Within the Howick Local Board area, approximately 17 per cent of households have one or more dogs, while 83 per cent of households do not have a dog.

17. A summary of the results from the online survey is contained in Attachment D

Decision-making requirements

18. The decisions required of the board are:

· whether or not to propose any changes,

· to adopt a Statement of Proposal for public consultation (if changes are proposed)

· to appoint a hearing panel.

19. The Howick Local Board can also decide to rescind its decision from December 2015 (HW/2015/181), and postpone the review to a later date.

20. In making a decision on the statement of proposal, the local board must be satisfied that any proposed changes comply with a range of statutory, policy and delegated authority requirements. Table 2 below summarises the statutory and policy considerations for dog access rules.

Table 2 Considerations for dog access rules

Considerations
Public safety and comfort	· the need to minimise danger, distress, and nuisance to the community · the need to avoid the inherent danger in allowing dogs to have uncontrolled access to public places that are frequented by children (regardless if children are accompanied by an adult) · the importance of enabling, to the extent that is practicable, the public (including families) to use streets and public places without fear of attack or intimidation by dogs.
Protection of wildlife	· to ensure that dogs are controlled near protected wildlife · to reduce dog owners’ risk of incurring penalty under the Dog Control Act 1996 and the Wildlife Act 1953
Recreational needs of dogs and their owners	· access to dog walking areas are important for exercise for both the dog and the owner · consider places that are easily accessible and desirable for both the dog and the owner
Ensure that dog access rules are easy to understand	· consider rules that are practical, enforceable and clear · where appropriate, consider consistency across Auckland

21. Further detail on the decision-making requirements is provided in Attachment B.

Types of areas

22. In determining dog access rules, four different categories of area types were developed. Each area type has certain characteristics which determine its appropriate dog access rules.

23. The purpose of this approach is to make it easier to understand dog access rules within a local board area as well as to provide for public safety and comfort, the needs of dog owners and for the protection of wildlife. Table 3 outlines the area types and the appropriate dog access rule.

Table 3 Area types

Types	Description	Appropriate dog access rule
Highly sensitive area	A place where the mere presence of a dog can have a negative effect on the area. Examples are ecologically sensitive areas.	Prohibited
High use area	A place that attracts a lot of people at certain times of the day or year to which a time and season is necessary to manage the interactions between dogs and other users. These areas are typical beaches and associated parks.	Time and season
Dog friendly area	A place that is large and suitable for dogs to run and play off a leash.	Under control off a leash
Standard area	A place that does not fall into any of the other three categories.	Under control on a leash

24. A full description of these area types are detailed in Attachment C.

Time and Season

25. A time and season rule is proposed in high use areas to better manage the safe interaction between people and dogs through allocating access rules based on time rather than area. This reduces the risk of conflict between different users by encouraging them to access the area at different times.

26. The Auckland Council Policy on Dogs 2012 introduced a region-wide time and season standard. It sets summer access time of 10am to 5pm, from Labour Weekend to1 March. Local boards then decide the type of dog access during these hours and its winter time dog access rules.

27. The local board must consider whether or not the region-wide time and season standard is appropriate for its local beaches. If the local board decides on an alternative time and season, approval is required from the governing body.

28. The Howick Local Board Statement of Proposal considers three time and season options. These are:

· Option 1- retain time and season rule (status quo)

· Option 2- region-wide standard applied to Howick Local Board

· Option 3 – alternative time and season rule (recommended option).

Option 1 - retain the current time and season rule (status quo)

29. The Howick Local Board inherited its time and season rules from the legacy Manukau City Council. Table 4 below outlines the current time and season rule for Howick, which applies to beaches and adjoining parks.

Table 4 Current time and season for Howick Local Board

Summer (Daylight savings)
Before 9am	9am to 7pm	After 7pm
Under control off a leash	Prohibited	Under control off a leash
Winter (outside of daylight savings)
Under control off a leash at all times

Option 2- adopt a time and season definition based on the region-wide standard and align rules based on community preferences

30. The Auckland Council Policy on Dogs 2012 provides a standard definition for time and season for the summer period but does not define the access rules for these times. The access rules presented in this option have been developed based on the feedback received from the community to date. A more detailed description of the community’s views is provided in Attachment D.

31. Table 5 below identifies the region-wide time and season standard applied to the Howick Local Board.

Table 5 Time and season rules based on the region-wide standard and community preferences

Summer Labour Weekend until 1 March
Before 10am	10am to 5pm	After 5pm
Under control off a leash	Prohibited	Under control on a leash
Winter 2 March until Friday before Labour Weekend
Before 10am	10am to 5pm	After 5pm
Under control off a leash	Under control on a leash	Under control off a leash

Option 3 – adopt an alternative time and season rule based on evidence to date and community preferences (recommended option)

32. This option proposes an amendment to the standard time and season definition; and the access rules takes into consideration the feedback received from the community to date and all of the evidence gathered through the previous local board dog access reviews.

Table 6 Alternative time and season rule for Howick (recommended option)

Summer Labour Weekend until 31 March
Before 10am	10am to 7pm	After 7pm
Under control off a leash	Prohibited	Under control off a leash
Winter 1 April until Friday before Labour Weekend
Before 10am	10am to 4pm	After 4pm
Under control off a leash	Under control on a leash	Under control off a leash

33. This recommended time and season is in line with decisions made by other local boards who have already completed local dog access reviews:

· seven out of ten local boards end summer season access rules at either 6.30 or 7pm

· seven out of the ten local boards’ summer access rules applies from Labour weekend to 31 March

· seven out of the ten local boards’ winter access rules have off a leash access from 4pm

34. Table 7 provides an overall analysis of the three options:

Table 7 Analysis of time and season options

Option 1: Status Quo

Option 2: Region wide standard

Option 3: Recommended option

Advantages:

The recreational needs of dog owners and their dogs are well provided for through under control off a leash access at all times in winter

Disadvantages:

Public safety and comfort of other beach users does not seem to be provided for in winter

Advantages:

Public safety and comfort of the beach users are well provided for through:

· prohibited access to dogs from 10am to 5pm in summer and then on a leash from 5pm

· the provision of under control on a leash access

Disadvantages:

The recreational needs of dogs owners and their dogs are not well met through this option as the summer access if unduly restrictive

It presumes a reduction in beach use from 5pm which is not reflected by actual beach use in Howick.

Advantages:

Public safety and comfort of beach users are better provided for through:

· the provision of under control on a leash access in winter

· prohibited access to dogs in summer from 10am to 7pm when beaches are busy

Recreational needs of dog owners and their dogs are met through:

· an additional hour of off a leash access in summer mornings

· under control off a leash access from 7pm in summer

Disadvantages:

However, there is more restricted access for dog owners in winter from 10am to 4pm

35. Staff recommend Option 3 (the alternative time and season option) as:

· it provides the most balance between public safety and comfort and the recreational needs of dog owners

· it updates the status quo time and season rule, based on community preferences from the online survey

· uses time and season rules similar to other local boards which will make it easier for visitors and non-residents to the area to understand the dog access rules in Howick.

Identification of locations by category

36. Staff categorised locations into four categories- highly sensitive, high use areas, dog friendly areas and standard areas. To determine the category for a particular location, staff considered:

· findings from site visits

· feedback from parks staff, biosecurity and biodiversity staff

· feedback from local board portfolio holders

· feedback from the online survey.

Highly sensitive areas (prohibited)

37. The primary wildlife concerns for the Howick Local Board are shorebird, wetland and saltmarsh bird habitats. The south western coastline of the local board area (i.e. Wakaaranga Creek to Highbrook Creek, including Pakuranga Creek) are active bird roosting, nesting and feeding areas.

38. The south eastern coastline of the local board area (i.e. Mangemangeroa reserve foreshore and the Chisbury Terrace reserve foreshore) contains important mangrove and salt marsh areas where vulnerable bird species nest and feed.

39. Waakaaranga Creek foreshore is the only area prohibited to dogs. For the protection of vulnerable bird species, many of which are at risk, it is recommended that the dogs are prohibited from accessing the foreshore areas of Wakaaranga Creek to Highbrook Creek, including Pakuranga Creek.

40. It is also recommended that dogs are prohibited from the Mangemangeroa Reserve and Chisbury Terrace Reserve areas, given theyare significant ecological areas. The bush walks in these areas lead to the foreshore area, where dogs are prohibited. Prohibiting dogs from these reserves, reduces the likelihood of dogs accessing the ecologically sensitive foreshore area.

41. Prohibiting dogs from highly sensitive areas will not negatively affect overall dog access as:

· most of the foreshore areas identified are not accessible to dogs

· parts of the foreshore areas identified are currently prohibited to dogs

· other walkway areas are accessible to dogs (e.g. Cascades) which provide similar sorts of experiences

· Table 7 in the Howick Local Board Statement of Proposal (Attachment A) outlines the areas categorised as ‘’highly sensitive’.

Standard areas (under control on a leash)

42. The dog access rule appropriate to standard areas is under control on a leash at all times.

43. Table 10 in the Howick Local Board Statement of Proposal (Attachment A) outlines the areas categorised as ‘standard areas.

44. Due to biodiversity concerns (outlined above), it is recommended that the reserves along the shoreline and walkway adjacent to Waakaaranga Creek to Highbury Creek, including Pakuranga Creek, are under control on a leash at all times.

45. Shore birds, wetland and saltmarsh birds roost on the reserves along the shoreline. The under control on a leash rule manages the potential for off leash dogs attacking these birds, or accessing the prohibited foreshore areas. The Rotary walkway at Waakaaranga Reserve and extends along the shoreline. It is a popular walking track. The under control on a leash rule will provide public safety and comfort.

46. The Tainui Reserve, at the northern end of Cockle Bay Beach, is another area that staff recommend for under control on a leash. A popular playground is located on this reserve and is well used by children and families. The current time and season rule for Tainui Reserve enables dogs to be off a leash in this area and prohibited at other times. Staff consider that that the time and season rule is inappropriate to the use in this space. Under control on a leash better protects public safety, while enabling dog owners to access this area with their dogs.

47. Staff recommend that the bush walks along Murphy’s Bush and Point View Reserve maintain their under control on a leash status as:

· the bush walks are narrow and are significant ecological areas

· maintaining the on leash status, protects public safety, comfort and flora and fauna

· dog owners have not indicated in the online survey that either Murphy’s Bush or Point View Reserve walkways are important dog walking areas

· Cascades walkway is an off a leash area and provides dog access to bush walks.

48. The under control on a leash access rule for these areas will not negatively affect dog access as it is balanced with other under control off a leash access areas in the Howick Local Board.

High use areas (time and season rule)

49. Time and season rules are most appropriate for high use areas, as these areas attract a lot of people at certain times of the day and year. High use areas are typically beaches and associated parks because of the volumes and variation of use.

50. For the Howick Local Board area, the following beach areas are recommended as high use:

· Cockle Bay Beach

· Howick Beach (from westernmost boat ramp to Rangitoto View Road)

· Mellons Bay Beach (southeast of water pipe)

· Bucklands Beach (south of boat ramp opposite Devon Road)

· Eastern Beach (south of northern most water pipe, including adjoining picnic area)

· Little Bucklands Beach

51. It is recommended that these areas are subject to time and season rules.

52. The current Howick Local Board time and season rule, subjects parks adjacent to beaches to the time and season rule. Staff recommend that these adjacent parks are categorised as dog friendly areas or standard areas, as the use in these adjacent parks are different to that of the beach area.

53. The classification of these areas as ‘high use’ does not negatively affect overall dog access as:

· dogs can still access these areas during quiet periods

· there are adjacent park and foreshore areas that are under control off a leash access at all times

· these areas are currently subject to time and season rules.

54. Table 8 in the Howick Local Board Statement of Proposal (Attachment A) outlines the areas categorised as ‘high use’.

Dog friendly areas (under control off a leash)

55. Dog friendly areas^{^[1]} are places that are suitable for dogs to run and play under control off a leash. These areas typically have low levels of public use or are of a size that allows for shared use without significant impact on other users.

56. Dog friendly areas were identified for the Howick Local Board through a desk-top study.

57. All of the areas identified Table 9 are currently under control off a leash for dog access, with the exception of Musick Point Esplanade Reserve. At present this esplanade reserve has under control on a leash access, because the land adjacent to it is private land and a golf course. However, the morphology of Musick Point Esplanade Reserve suggests that dogs can use the foreshore area of the reserve, without accessing private land.

58. The tidal nature of the Musick Point Esplanade Reserve suggests that dogs and the public cannot access the area at all times. When the tide is out, the walkway areas are wide enough to allow the public and dogs to use it comfortably.

59. Overall dog friendly areas in the Howick Local Board are a selection of parks, foreshore areas and bushwalks that allow for a variety of experiences for dogs and their owners. These areas are well distributed across the local board area.

60. Table 9 in the Howick Local Board Statement of Proposal (Attachment A) identifies the dog friendly areas.

Ambiguous dog access rules (farm paddocks occupied by stock)

61. Currently the Howick local board has a rule that stipulates dogs must be under control on a leash for farm paddocks occupied by stock. This rule applies to public parks only. This rule was made prior to the creation of Auckland Council and delegated to the local board to review at its discretion.

62. Staff recommend that this rule be replaced with the appropriate dog access rule for the area; for instance, under control on a leash, off a leash or prohibited. This aids in signage implementation and clarity of dog access rules for users.

63. For the Howick Local Board, Mangemangeroa Reserve is the only area which has an operational farm paddock. The draft statement of proposal is to prohibit dogs from Mangemangeroa Reserve. Staff recommend the removal of this rule, due to conflict with another proposed rule.

64. The following outlines the impacts of retaining this rule and removing it:

Option 1: Retain ambiguous rule

Advantages:

· maintains under control on a leash access to public parks with farm paddocks

· promotes safety of dogs and stock

Disadvantages:

· confusing for users as some park access rules will need to be more prohibitive than under control on a leash (e.g. Mangemangeroa Reserve)

· access rules for areas that are no longer farm paddocks will not be updated as its use changes.

Option 2: Remove ambiguous rule (recommended option)

Advantages:

· more appropriate dog access rules can be in place for the park in question (e.g. Mangemangeroa reserve)

· simplifies and clarifies dog access rules for the area

· easier to communicate with signage and easier to enforce

Disadvantage:

· will need to specifically identify public parks with farm paddocks and apply the appropriate dog access rule

65. Staff recommend Option 2, removing ambiguous dog access rules as it removes the potential for confusion and will apply the more appropriate dog access rule for the area.

Next steps

66. Staff will update the statement of proposal to reflect the options selected by the local board.

67. The statement of proposal (together with proposals from other local boards) will be publicly notified for submissions as part of the dog registration process in June 2016

68. Once submissions close, members of the public will present their views to the hearings panel, followed by deliberations to consider both the written and oral submission.

69. The decision of the local board is reported to Governing Body in September in order for the bylaw to be amended.

Appointment of the local board hearings panel

70. The local board has two options for the appointment of its hearings panel:

Option 1 – Appoint a panel of three or more members

71. Under this option a hearings panel of three or more members to hear and deliberate on the submissions. The hearings panel would then make a recommendation to the whole local board at their next business meeting to either adopt the recommendations or refer the matter back to the hearings panel for reconsideration. The local board is not able to substitute its decision with that of the hearings panel without rehearing the submissions.

Option 2 – Appoint a panel of the whole board

72. Under this option the panel would hear, deliberate and make the decision on the changes to the dog access rules. The decision of the hearings panel would be included in the agenda of the subsequent local board meeting for information purposes only.

73. The following table outlines the advantages and disadvantages of each option:

Option 1:

appoint a panel of three or more members

Option 2:

appoint a panel of the whole local board

Advantages

· only the local board members on the hearings panel need to attend the hearings and deliberations

· all members of the local board hear the verbal submissions before making a collective decision on the dog access rules

· Differences of opinion on dog access rules can be discussed at the deliberations stage

· a final decision on the dog access rules can be made at the time of the deliberations without the need for a recommendation to be reported back to a local board business meeting

Disadvantages

· the hearings panel will need to report back to the local board business meeting after deliberations. Due to the 2016 local board elections, there will be significant time pressures to hear submissions, deliberate and report back to the local board in a very short time frame.

· if there is disagreement between the local board and the hearings panel on dog access recommendations, the decisions must be referred back to the hearings panel for reconsideration. This is not ideal with the short time frames and will jeopardise the dog access review

· greater commitment from all members of the local board to attend hearings and deliberations

74. Staff recommend Option 2- appoint a hearings panel of the whole local board as:

· all local board members can hear submissions,

· a final decision on the dog access rules can be made at the time of the deliberations, increasing the likelihood of the process being completed before the 2016 local government elections.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

75. This was workshopped with the Howick Local Board on 14 April 2016. The views of other local boards have not been sought on the statement of proposal. In the 2013/14 and 2014/15 reviews, other local boards chose to review their beach and foreshore areas and adjacent parks, high-use parks, generic rules and dog exercise areas.

76. Consistency with the other local boards’ dog access rules is a factor that the Howick Local Board may take into account. Staff can provide advice on decisions made by other local boards.

Māori impact statement

77. Managing dog access in areas of significance to Māori can help achieve outcomes of the Māori Plan for Tāmaki Makaurau. In this instance, no impacts have been identified.

78. Feedback from Mana Whenua representatives at a Hui held in March 2015 related to the ability of iwi to determine dog access on Marae, a focus on dog control, responsible dog ownership, and ensuring the protection of sensitive ecological areas.

79. Sensitive ecological areas for the Howick Local Board have been identified as highly sensitive areas for its protection, as recommended by Mana Whenua.

Implementation

80. There are no implementation issues associated with this decision to adopt a statement of proposal.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a	Attachment A Statement of Proposal (Under Separate Cover)
b	Attachment B Decision Making Framework for Dog Access (Under Separate Cover)
c	Attachment C Types of Dog Access (Under Separate Cover)
d	Attachment D Online Survey Results (Under Separate Cover)
e	Attachment E Memo from Biodiversity (Under Separate Cover)
f	Attachment F Kauri Dieback Memo (Under Separate Cover)
g	Attachment G Submission Form (Under Separate Cover)

Signatories

Authors

Jasmin Kaur - Policy Analyst

Authorisers

Kataraina Maki - GM - Community & Social Policy

Angeline Barlow - Relationship Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

Implementing the Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan - 2015/2016 investment.

File No.: CP2016/06569

Purpose

1. The purpose of this report is to update the Howick Local Board on the implementation of the 2015/2016 investment priorities from the Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan and recommends options for unallocated funds.

Executive Summary

2. In August 2015, Howick Local Board approved the Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan (the plan) and agreed on the priority projects for consideration in 2015/2016 as follows: football, gymsports, athletics, netball, softball/squash and waka ama.

3. The local board has a locally driven initiative budget of $300,000 available in 2015/2016 in order to implement the initiatives identified in the plan.

4. In February 2016, the local board resolved to invest $49,420 to progress a feasibility study and a business case for the development of a new purpose built gymsports facility. This is the only investment to date.

5. This report recommends investment of the remaining balance of funds in 2015/2016 ($250,580) to support the gymsports project to the next stage.

6. The gymsports project was identified as the seconded highest priority project for implementation in 2015/2016. This project as assessed by officers is potentially more multipurpose than the other priority projects and will meet the greatest identified community need.

Recommendation/s

That the Howick Local Board:

a) Notes officers’ updates for 2015/2016 priority projects from the Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan.

b) Approves an extension of the 2013/2014 Facilities Partnership Grant of $100,000 to Pakuranga Athletics Charitable Trust (Resolution number HW/2015/90) until 30 June 2017.

c) Approves a facility partnership grant to Howick Gymnastic Club of up to $250,580 to advance the gymsports facility project to the next stage.

Comments

7. The Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan (the plan) was approved and priorities for consideration in 2015/2016 agreed to by the Howick Local Board on 10 August 2015.

8. The plan aims to guide decision making for future investment in sport and recreation facilities within the Howick Local Board area.

9. The plan identified projects and initiatives that could be considered in the 2015-2025 LTP period. These projects were prioritised using criteria that align with council’s strategic direction.

10. At its meeting on 10 August 2015, Howick Local Board resolved:

Resolution Number HW/2015/118

That the Howick Local Board:

c) agrees priorities and recommendations in the Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan for 2015/2016, as set out below:

Priority	Project description
1	Football. Staff to approach Macleans College (if required) to discuss the possibility of community access and the use of the new artificial turf by Bucklands Beach AFC, 10 hours a week over 40 weeks of the year.
2	Gymsports. A feasibility study and business case for a new purpose built building, including other users.
3	Athletics. Development of a pavilion above a storage area next to the Yvette Williams Track at Lloyd Elsmore Park.
4	Netball. Investigate a joint venture with Pakuranga College to develop two indoor courts. If not feasible then spatially plan to cover two courts at Lloyd Elsmore Park.
5	Softball/squash. A feasibility study and business case for offices and a squash court at Meadowlands Park, if required. If these documents are not required, then preparation of design plans, quantity survey, consents and project management for the offices and squash court.
6	Waka Ama. A boat storage and wash down area at Tiraumea Drive Reserve.

11. In 2015/2016 the Howick Local Board has budgeted $300,000 for facility partnership initiatives in order to implement the plan.

12. On 15 February 2016, the Howick Local Board resolved:

Resolution Number: HW/2016/204

That Howick Local Board:

a) Invests $49,420 from its Facilities Partnership Feasibility Grants fund in the preparation of a feasibility study and business case for a purpose built gymsports facility, which also considers the needs of other sport and community clubs,

13. There is a remaining balance of $250,580 from the 2015/2016 budget which is unallocated.

Update on 2015/2016 projects

14. In the February 2016 report, officers provided an update to the local board on the progress of the 2015/2016 priority projects. Further updates are as follows:

Football

15. To date no formal discussions have taken place with Macleans College. Officers are continuing to support Bucklands Beach AFC in regard to seeking community access to the artificial turf. This project is deferred for consideration as part of 2016/2017 priorities.

Gymsports

16. The needs assessment, feasibility study and business case are underway and are due to be completed by 30 June 2016.

17. The outcomes of the needs assessment were presented to the Howick Local Board on 12 April 2016 and showed that the Howick Gymnastic Club does not currently have the sufficient floor area for its operation and that there is no capacity at the current facility for additional equipment.

18. The club’s current programme schedule is also close to full capacity and there is demand for additional capacity. The club’s membership has also increased over 120% between 2011 and 2014 with close to 90% of club members being children aged 5-12 years.

19. Data projections suggest that the popularity of gymsports will continue to grow for the foreseeable future.

Athletics

20. The Pakuranga Athletics Charitable Trust (PACT) currently has two grants from the Howick Local Board for the construction of a pavilion at Lloyd Elsmore Park.

Resolution number: HW 2015/90:

$100,000 granted on 15 June 2015 with an expiry date of 30 June 2016; and

Resolution number: HW/2015/105

$130,000 granted on 30 June 2015 with an expiry date of 30 June 2017.

21. Officers recommend extending the $100,000 grant (Resolution number HW/2015/90) to 30 June 2017 in order for both grants to expire on the same date. This would give the trust additional time to secure funding for the project. The remaining terms and conditions of the grant would remain unchanged e.g. the funding would only be released when PACT has secured the balance of funds required to complete the project.

22. Several meetings have been held with representatives of PACT, local board members and council officers. Recent discussions have included advice from officers for PACT to consider staging the project.

23. PACT advise that it is estimated that the completed project (pavilion and grandstand) will cost between $1.7 and $1.9 million including contingency and professional fees

24. PACT representatives are aware that the 2007 resource consent for the project lapsed in 2012 and that a new application will have to be submitted. The building consent for the project expires on 15 May 2016 and is unlikely to be extended so a new application will also be required. It should be noted that $25,000 of the $100,000 grant is available to assist with consent fees, design and quantity surveying.

25. PACT were under the impression that the project could not be progressed without land owner approval but subsequently it has come to light that on 10 May 2010, Manukau City Council issued a Reserve Lease to the Pakuranga Athletics Club for 2R Bells Road, Pakuranga including the area of the proposed building and grandstand. This lease has an expiry date of 31 May 2020.

26. PACT are compiling a clear project plan which will describe the project in detail including information on funding plan and how the facility will be operated once it is completed.

Netball.

27. A feasibility study into options to cover courts at the Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre (HPNC) at Lloyd Elsmore Park has been completed.

28. The recommended option is to cover two courts with a fabric structure with solid walls, windows and doors. It is estimated that this option would have a construction cost between $1.4m - $1.8m without a timber sports floor or between $1.5m and $2.1m with a timber sports floor and mechanical ventilation. The two court option is recommended as it is the most financially sustainable model.

29. Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre’s preferred option is for three covered courts with a fabric structure with solid walls, windows and doors. Construction cost estimates for this option vary between $1.97m and $3.0m depending on floor requirements.

30. Officers note the netball centre’s preferred option but believe at this point that the three court option poses greater affordability risks due its construction cost and is also potentially a greater risk of being financially unsustainable as the financial modelling suggests a negative operating profit of the facility once depreciation is accounted for. Netball will need to show how this option is operationally viable in order to attract funding.

Softball/Squash.

31. Further work needs to be undertaken with Meadowlands Multi Sport Limited to progress the feasibility and business case for the proposed development at Meadowlands Park.

32. At a workshop with the Howick Local Board on 15 December 2015, the local board indicated its preference that these documents be completed prior to Meadowlands Multi Sport Limited seeking funding for detailed building plans, consents and construction. It is proposed that this project be deferred for consideration as part of 2016/2017 priorities.

Waka Ama.

33. Staff are continuing to work with Pakuranga Outrigger Canoe Club Te Tahawai O Pakuranga Incorporated to investigate options for a waka ama storage facility at Tiraumea Drive Reserve.

34. After further scoping of the project, the club is considering options as the estimated cost of the original proposal was cost prohibitive. It is proposed that this project be deferred for consideration as part of 2016/2017 priorities.

Unallocated 2015/2016 funds

35. The local board has $250,580 unallocated from its 2015/2016 Facility Partnership Feasibility Studies budget.

36. Staff have identified three options for the remaining funds.

Option 1: Gymsports

37. Grant up to $250,580 to the Howick Gymnastic Club to progress the project to developed design and consent stage.

38. This would allow the project to quickly progress to the next stage without a lengthy delay as the gym club raises funds. Staff would work with the club to ensure that the club contributes financially to the costs of this stage.

39. This project received the highest project score when assessed against other projects identified in the Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan for consideration in the first three year period of the current Long Term Plan (2015-2018).

40. The need for larger gymnastics facility has been established as part of a robust needs assessment process.

41. Officers note that Howick Gymnastic Club is a large club that is continuing to grow in numbers and therefore has a need to increase and improve its facilities.

42. There is a medium level risk that the Howick Gymnastic Club will not be able to raise the capital construction costs of the facility which are estimated at around $4million. It should be noted that it also may be a lengthy process for the club to secure the funding and may require a substantial investment from the local board/council to make the project a reality.

43. The feasibility study and business case is also considering how the proposed facility can cater for other sporting and community needs.

44. The local board’s investment in progressing to the next stage should be subject to the final outcome of the feasibility study and business case which are due to be completed by 30 June 2016.

Option 2: Netball

45. Grant up to $250,580 to the Howick Pakuranga Netball Centre to progress the project to developed design and consent stage.

46. This funding would be dependent on the outcome of two covered courts versus three covered courts. It is likely that the three court option will be more expensive due to construction and operational costs.

47. It should be noted that there may be a higher risk that this project may not secure sufficient capital funding to complete construction compared to the Howick Gymnastics Club project. Capital construction costs for two covered courts are estimated between $1.4m - $1.8m.

48. Officers believe that the overall project is about improving quality of experience and not capacity, so therefore the case for third party funding may not be as strong as the gymsports project.

Option 3: Do not allocate the funds

49. The unallocated balance of $250,580 would remain unallocated and would be returned to Council as a saving.

2016/2017 Priorities

50. Staff are working on a high level review of year one of the Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan and will be presenting projects identified in the plan (and new projects) for consideration by the local board in July 2016.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

51. The local board considered the six projects/initiatives at workshops on 17 November and 15 December 2015. A formal report was considered by the local board on 15 February 2016. A workshop will be held with the Howick Local Board on 5 May 2016.

Māori impact statement

52. The Howick Sport and Active Recreation Facilities Plan assists the local board with decision making to increase community participation, including the potential to increase participation for Māori. No particular negative implications for the Māori community or Māori stakeholders have been identified as arising from this report. It is likely Māori will benefit from the recommended projects, similar to other users of the facilities.

Implementation

d) A standard Council funding agreement including terms and conditions will be developed and progress towards agreed project outcomes monitored throughout the project. This would be subject to Council’s satisfaction of the outcomes of the feasibility study and business case.

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

Signatories

Authors

Duncan Chisholm - Sport and Recreation Advisor

Authorisers

Sharon Rimmer - Manager Sport and Recreation

Mace Ward - General Manager Parks, Sports and Recreation

Angeline Barlow - Relationship Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

Report back on Southern Resource Recovery Scoping Study and request for funding for ongoing development of resource recovery activity

File No.: CP2016/07160

Purpose

1. To note the results of the Southern Resource Recovery Scoping Study.

2. To approve the allocation of $10,000 from the Howick Local Board’s 2016/2017 ‘investigate recycling hub’ budget to support the on-going development of resource recovery activity.

Executive Summary

3. In 2014/2015, the five southern local boards (Howick, Māngere-Ōtāhuhu, Manurewa, Ōtara-Papatoetoe, and Papakura) jointly funded a study to scope options for resource recovery in the south. Regional funding matched this local investment. The study was undertaken in two phases and provides findings and recommendations to advance the development of two community recycling centres in the south over the next five years. A full copy of the Southern Resource Recovery Scoping Study report (the study) is appended at Attachment A.

4. In the Howick Local Board (the board) area, the Chinese Conservation and Education Trust (CCET) was identified as one of the interested groups. The trust has expressed interest in engaging Chinese communities in the development of a community recycling centre (CRC).

5. CCET require a significant amount of capacity building support to enable them to realise their goal of operating a CRC. Therefore, this report recommends allocating the board’s 2016/2017 budget to ‘investigate recycling hub’ to support CCET, and any other groups that emerge, in developing the skills required to lead resource recovery initiatives in the board area.

Recommendation

That the Howick Local Board:

a) Approve the allocation of $10,000 from the board’s 2016/2017 ‘investigate recycling hub’ budget to implement a southern capacity building and mentoring programme to support community-led resource recovery activity in the south, with particular support for the Chinese Conservation and Education Trust.

Comments

Background

6. The development of a regional resource recovery network (RRN) is a key initiative in Auckland Council’s 2012 Waste Management and Minimisation Plan (WMMP), and is a critical element in achieving the plan’s goal of zero waste to landfill by 2040.

7. At its meeting in October 2014, the Regional Strategy and Policy Committee endorsed the strategic direction for the RRN, including a long-term strategy of developing 12 community recycling centres over a ten year period. The strategy proposes the development of two CRCs in the southern region during the 2019/2020 and 2020/2021 financial years.

8. In early 2015, with support from the Howick, Māngere-Ōtāhuhu, Manurewa, Ōtara-Papatoetoe and Papakura Local Boards, council staff commissioned a scoping study to investigate how the RRN could develop in the south. The objective of the study was as follows;

‘to identify potential sites, interested parties and possible collaborations, and to outline a plan to progress the establishment of at least two Community Recycling Centres in the South. It also needs to identify capacity building requirements within the community sector.’

9. The scoping study was undertaken in two stages. Stage one of the study involved:

· completing a stocktake of existing resource recovery operations in the study area;

· initial engagement with organisations and individuals interested in being involved; and

· identifying a list of potential sites.

10. These findings were presented in a report in July 2015 and discussed with local board representatives at a workshop.

11. Stage two of the study involved:

· organising a study tour for interested community organisations to Xtreme Zero Waste in Raglan which has been operating as a community recycling centre for over 14 years;

· identifying which organisations have advanced their plans to get involved with, or expand their current, resource recovery operations;

· identification of collaboration opportunities;

· GIS modelling to develop a model by which potential sites can be assessed against an ‘ideal standard’ for a Community Recycling Centre in the study area; and

· formulating recommendations on how council can advance resource recovery in the south.

Results of the scoping study

12. The study highlighted the need for council to work concurrently on acquiring resource recovery sites and on capacity building of potential operators. It identified ten community-led initiatives and organisations in the south with potential to evolve into operators of community recycling centres or related resource recovery initiatives. It also identified three significant potential collaboration opportunities with other organisations; Auckland Airport, Auckland South Corrections Facility and mana whenua.

13. In this board area, there was relatively little interest from local groups in becoming potential operators of a community recycling centre. However, through the engagement process, the CCET expressed interest in engaging Chinese communities with resource recovery.

14. At this stage the CCET’s goal is aspirational as they do not have any practical experience in resource recovery operations. However, they want to develop these skills. This would require a significant amount of capacity building support to enable them to realise their goal. This report recommends that the board provide support to CCET to undertake capacity building so the group can lead resource recovery initiatives in the board area.

15. With regard to site identification, the study has developed a model for analysing potential sites against an ideal standard for community recycling centres in the south. Council staff will work with Panuku Development Auckland and local boards to identify candidate sites with the assistance of this model.

16. The final report identifies a number of areas that align with the ‘ideal’ site selection criteria. No areas within the board area match the ideal criteria at this stage, although there are potential sites that border Howick and Otara-Papatoetoe Local Board areas.

Investment opportunities for consideration

17. The suggested focus for investment over the next financial year is to support the capacity building of local groups, facilitating collaborations and seed funding to start up local initiatives. This will put local groups in the best possible position to tender for a contract to run a facility and also support and catalyse complementary locally based resource recovery activity.

18. There are two options that were considered with regards to the board’s investment in resource recovery activity. These are described below.

Option One: Do Nothing

19. The local board can choose not to provide any funding to resource recovery initiatives in the south. If the board chooses this option local groups can apply to council’s Waste Minimisation and Innovation Fund to build their own capacity and seed fund initiatives.

20. The risk with this approach is that the momentum that has been built up through the scoping study engagement process will dissipate. Many of the groups are emergent and lack confidence to start local initiatives without receiving support from council or other groups.

Option Two: Support capacity building for the southern network

21. In this option, each of the five southern local boards would contribute $10,000 over the 2016/2017 financial year to support a dedicated programme to:

· Establish a capacity building and mentoring programme to grow the collective capacity of groups in the south involved in resource recovery. This will also provide opportunities for new groups to be identified and supported.

· Continue to foster collaborations with Auckland Airport, Auckland South Corrections, mana whenua and other key stakeholders to identify and develop opportunities for joint resource recovery ventures.

· Facilitate and support a network of organisations and businesses interested in resource recovery in the south.

22. Staff recommend option two in which the board would contribute $10,000 to support this project over the 2016/2017 financial year.

23. This option is preferred because there is considerable community passion and interest in resource recovery across the scoping study area. A number of small local initiatives have already started as a result of this scoping study. With a dedicated resource and programme of work, groups can be supported to grow further.

24. A similar recommendation will be made in May 2016 to the other four southern boards that supported the initial scoping study. The board will be kept informed as to the outcome of these recommendations and the overall funding for the project.

25. In the event that all southern boards do not provide a similar level of funding, the project parameters will be adjusted to accommodate a smaller budget and the boards will be informed as to the new proposal.

Consideration

Local Board views and implications

26. A key initiative in the Howick Local Board Plan is to ‘provide more opportunities to recover reuse and recycle waste’. As such, the board jointly commissioned the scoping study along with four other boards in southern Auckland.

27. Three combined local board workshops have been held throughout the development and implementation of the scoping study. This ensured that local board representatives had the opportunity to input into the project.

28. The recommended investment of $10,000 will enable support for local resource recovery groups based in Howick groups such as the Chinese Conservation and Education Trust and any new groups.

Māori impact statement

29. Representatives from 12 mana whenua and seven maatawaka organisations were engaged through the scoping study. Although there were no specific collaborations identified, members of The Southern Initiative’s Maori Advisory Group and attendees of council’s monthly Mana Whenua Information Hui saw potential for collaboration. They were supportive of continued consultation and discussion on the opportunities as they emerge.

30. A number of mataawaka organisations are now involved in community-led resource recovery initiatives in the south, for example, Papakura Marae with Rejuvenate Papakura and Papatuanuku Marae is supportive of Mangere East Family Service’s vision of a Regen Village.

Implementation

31. Subject to approval of funding, Waste Solutions will work with CCET and any other groups that emerge, on capacity building to support the organisations in delivering resource recovery initiatives.

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a View	Scoping Study for Resource Recovery in the South: Findings and Recommendations	199

Signatories

Authors

Jenny Chilcott – Senior Waste Planning Specialist

Authorisers

John Dragicevich - Director Civil Defence and Emergency Management

Angeline Barlow - Relationship Manager

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

Howick Tourism Development Action Plan

Howick as a visitor destination

March 2016

Chair’s message

I am delighted to introduce the Howick Tourism Plan.

We have seen a significant growth in visitors to Auckland during the past decade. With our history, heritage and natural environment, Howick tourism sector has a very solid platform on which to build and grow.

We are interested in further developing our strengths and leveraging opportunities. We are building partnerships with key stakeholders such as Howick Tourism Incorporated, local town centres, and will work with them to set and deliver our vision for Howick.

As a local board we are keen to support a strong visitor economy through increased collaboration across the public sector, business and community associations and tourism industry groups. Together we will help to grow the number of visitors to Howick.

This plan is an important step in helping the Howick Local Board support the development of tourism opportunities within Howick and using our visitor economy and events to deliver prosperity.

David Collings

Chair, Howick Local Board

Objectives

The objectives of this plan are to:

· Create a framework to guide tourism development for the Howick Local Board area for next 3 years.

· Support the Local Board Plan outcomes and grow a strong local economy.

· Facilitate effective engagement between those delivering tourism development initiatives and the Howick Local Board.

Plan Development Process

The plan development process has included:

Howick Tourism

Howick has an opportunity to exploit its cultural heritage and coastal environment to further develop its visitor economy, and to promote its vibrant culture.

Strong colonial, cultural heritage and coastal attractions

Howick Historic Village is a living history museum that presents the colonial period (1840 to 1880). On a Live Day, the Village is brought to life with costumed villagers, a marching band, a Fencible military demonstration, an exhibition, and an opportunity to experience the life in Colonial Auckland.

Uxbridge Arts & Culture is an arts centre in the heart of Howick specifically for the provision of arts and cultural services to the local community. The centre runs around 750 individual courses in arts and culture each year.

Uxbridge theatre has a current capacity of hosting up to 200 people. There are 3 separate art studios. A newly refurbished Malcolm Smith gallery will open in May 2016.

Te Tuhi is a contemporary art gallery adjacent to Pakuranga town centre, providing a programme of free exhibitions and public events. Te Tuhi also provides workshops for local schools, art and art appreciation classes for adults and children and hosts the Nanette Cameron School of Interior Design.

Polish Museum collections and displays related to Poland and Polish people in New Zealand. The museum is dedicated to increase awareness and knowledge of Poland’s history and to remember the 733 children and 102 adults who arrived in NZ in 1944 during WW2.

Pakuranga Walkway runs around the edge of the water of the Tamaki Estuary and Whakaaranga Creek, provides extensive views up and down the Tamaki River, wetland areas and features of historical and cultural significance.

Mangemangeroa Valley Walkway runs through the magnificent landscape of farmland, coastal native bush and has stunning estuary views. The reserve is an area of significant scenic, environmental and cultural value.

Cultural centres

Te Tahawai Marae is a pan-tribal urban marae located in Edgewater College. The Marae provides a unique Maori experience as visitors enter the Maori world and develop their understanding of Maori culture.

Fo Guang Shan is the largest Buddhist temple in New Zealand. The temple offers a calming environment and has earned a reputation of being a local tourist attraction.

Established town centres

Town centres in Howick reflect the character of their communities. The local board’s vision is for the centres to be popular places attracting regional, national and international visitors.

Howick Village is known for its heritage qualities and restaurants. The village is a retail hub on the strength of the Saturday Market. The upgrade of the Uxbridge Gallery will be completed in April 2016 and will add further character to its rich heritage.

Pakuranga Town Centre offers a wide range of retail services. The planned re-development in the town centre is creating new opportunities for growth.

Botany Town Centre is a local shopping centre with a range of amenities. The village is a service centre for the local resident and attracts people from further away.

Howick Visitor Profile

There is no specific data to indicate actual visitor numbers into Howick and their local spend. The most reliable data on day visitor spend trends is the BNZ Marketview data based on credit card expenditure in Howick Village BID area. The data is used as a proxy to determine visitors’ profiles.

Domestic visitors to Howick Village

Local spend from Howick residents represents over 60% of spend within Howick. A significant percentage of this spend would also be in main stream consumer goods at local supermarkets.

Domestic Spend by Auckland Regions (Year end June 2015)

International visitors to Howick Village

More than two thirds (70%) of international visitors are from English speaking countries (Australia, the UK and North America). One out ten visitors is from Asia..

The results reflect that the current Howick tourism offerings appeal to a primarily English speaking international market with low level of visitation from the major Asian growth markets to Auckland.

International Spend by Countries (Year end June 2015)

Age and Gender

The majority of visitors (70%) to Howick are aged between 40 and 70 with more female visitors than male.

Targeted Market Segments

Our primary tourism market of focus needs to expand beyond local and east Auckland. Howick has the potential to attract a broader Auckland regional market for specific events and with appropriate product mix.

Further research into the Howick visitor profile will help inform any product gap and provide suggestions on collective actions on developing the right product mix.

Tourism Product Audit

Based on the tourism database that Howick Tourism Incorporated holds, there are 73 tourism providers in and within the vicinity of the Howick Local Board area.

A third of tourism operators (24) provide touring experiences while a quarter of operators (19) are accommodation providers. There may be operators in the Howick area who do not have a web presence and therefore may not be captured in the database.

Howick Tourism Operators by Industry Type (2015)

Opportunities

Regions across Auckland are increasingly embracing a strategy promoting their visitor economy.

Likewise Howick has the opportunity to attract more visitors from the rest of Auckland to its highly attractive seaside suburb with a rich colonial history, Howick should be considering ways to lift the profile and to better capture visitor spend. The future tourism products on offer have to be appealing and be clearly promoted.

Growing a variety of visitor markets is highly dependent on adding to the current product mix, linking up transport routes to the attractions within Howick and other promotional pathways..

Being a primary international gateway for air and cruise ship arrivals, Auckland receives a significant number of international visitors. Nearly 50% of all international visitor nights’ spent in NZ are within the Auckland region which provides a huge potential market for Howick.

Challenges

Point of difference for Howick

The challenge for Howick, however, is that without a clear marketing strategy, collaboration among the tourism operators, signage and transport connections, new visitor growth may be difficult to achieve.

Stakeholder feedback from the workshops with the tourism operators held in late 2015 indicates local concern over the lack of clarity on the Howick brand and poor transport linkage. For this reason, a collaborative approach in promoting Howick is required along with a shared transport solution.

Getting the tourism operators to work together as a collectively Howick approach is fundamental to success.

Poor public transport provision

Tourism attractions within Howick suffer from poor access to public transport. Poor transport constrains access to tourism attractions and makes the trip within Howick inconvenient. The proposed Howick local mini-bus service will improve the connectivity within Howick.

Proposed Howick Mini-Bus Service

In order to encourage more visitors to Howick, appropriate improvements need to be made to the existing public transport network to provide better connections between the attractions visitors want to go.

Howick Village Business Association is seeking partnerships/sponsorships to operate a daily Howick mini-bus service(s) to connect visitor attractions in Howick.

The route is a circuit which starts and finishes at Half Moon Bay ferry terminal. The proposed stops are Howick Village, Polish Museum, Botany Town Centre, Buddhist Temple, Pakurange Plaza, and Howick Historic Village as shown in the map below.

The proposed bus route is to complement the existing public transport network and to provide a more direct and simplified public transport network that better meets the needs of recreational visitors.

The new service would will potentially reduce reliance on private vehicles to visit Howick and provide an opportunity to improve the connectivity among attractions in Howick.

The following tourism map was developed by Howick Local Times a few years ago which suggested a tourist bus circuit in Howick.

Howick Tourism Plan

This action plan builds on the strengths of the Howick tourism economy and addresses the challenges it faces. It promotes increased collaboration and building the capability of local tourism operators.

Suggested options for action are to:

· Increase collaboration across tourism industry, public sector and communities.

· Focus on increasing the capability of Howick’s tourism attractions.

· Grow the tourism profile of the area as a visitor destination.

Strategic Context

The Howick Tourism Plan has been developed in line with Auckland visitor strategies and plans.

Sub-regional context – tourism development in East Auckland

Howick Tourism Development Actions (2016 – 2018)

#	Actions and initiatives	Interested parties	Timescale	Outcome
Capability Development
1.	Facilitate and support the development of Howick tourism network, encourage networking among local tourism operators and business groups. Encourage Howick Tourism Incorporate Society to have regular meeting and to set up an online discussion forum ( i.e. closed facebook group or equivalent)	ATEED (lead), Howick Tourism Incorporated, Howick Tourism Operators.	Year 1	Encourage the tourism industry to work together and develop a network across Howick.
2.	Continue to explore opportunities for a collaborative approach among Howick tourism operators. 2.1 Improve information and interpretation of the area and improve connectivity. 2.2 Undertake research on visitors to Howick to better understand their needs and identify product gaps. 2.3 Research options for small commercial vendors to provide services such as guided walks, holiday programmes, bike and horse riding.	Howick Tourism Incorporated	Year 2 +	Tourism operators work collaboratively to grow visitor numbers in Howick.
3.	Improve quality of destination offerings and increase capability of tourism operators · Providing workshop/short courses in marketing and tourism product development · Providing workplace training to increase staff capability	ATEED	Year 2	Local tourism operators have access to best practice in developing their product and marketing collateral.
Product Development
4.	Stocktake local tourism sites and update the current Howick Tourism Map Encourage tourism operators to list on www.aucklandnz.com	Howick Tourism Incorporated (lead), ATEED	Year 1	Identify tourism attractions in the local and neighbouring board areas.
5.	Encourage cross-promotion / across boundaries among tourism operators (e.g. promotional posters of other operators at reception desks).	Howick Tourism Incorporated	Year 1	Tourism operators are working together to provide a better visitor experience and high revenue realised as a result of visitors spending more time and money in the area.
6.	Build existing events in Howick and support potential of setting up a Howick signature event to collaborate during ‘Midnight Mad’ Christmas event to leverage high volume of visitors to Howick. Promote events through targeted channels – www.aucklandnz.com, www.visithowick.co.nz and Facebook	Howick Village Business Association (lead), Howick Tourism Incorporated	Year 1	Unique tourism offering in Auckland.
Infrastructure Development
7.	Develop partnerships and support corporative opportunities to improve transport connection for visitors · Work with Botany centre, Pakurange centre, Howick Historical Village and Buddhist temple to introduce a mini bus service linking the visitor sites in Howick	Howick Village Business Association(lead), Howick Local Board, Howick Tourism Incorporated	Year 1	Howick visitor attractions are well-connected where people can shop, eat, sleep and be entertained.
8.	Collect visitor information from the Howick mini-bus service to understand the visitor profile	Howick Village Business Association	Year 1	Better understand visitors’ perception of Howick and their needs for any new tourism products.
Marketing
9.	Seek partnership opportunities and resource to promote Howick as a visitor destination. •Promote Howick tourism attractions/operators through targeted channels including www.visithowick.co.nz www.visithowickandbeyond.co.nz •Facilitate collaboration between operators .	Howick Village Business Association (lead), Howick Tourism Incorporated	Year 1- 2	Howick as the local and regional tourism and recreation destinations where visitors can shop, eat, sleep and be entertained.
10.	Effectively advertise the proposed Howick Mini-bus network route to increase awareness among potential customers.	Howick Village Business Association (Lead), Howick Tourism Incorporated	Year 1	Reduce empty seats and dead mileage of the bus service.

Howick Local Board

09 May 2016

	Topic	Purpose	Governance Role
May-16

	Workshop
	Coastal Erosion Eastern Beach Options	Provide direction on preferred approach	Setting direction/priorities/budget
	Half Moon Bay Ferry Pier Update	Receive update on progress	Local initiatives/specific decisions
	Youth Voice team update on second phase Youth Council	Receive update on progress	Keeping informed
	Howick Gymsports Project (2)	Receive update on progress	Keeping informed
	Quarterly Performance Report	Information dissemination	Keeping informed
	Howick Facilities Feasibilities Grants	Determine allocation of funding	Local initiatives/specific decisions
	Development Contribution changes	Information dissemination	Keeping informed
	AMETI Project Update	Receive update on progress	Keeping informed
	Draft LB Agreement	Provide direction on preferred approach	Setting direction/priorities/budget
	Flat Bush Multi Use Facility and Library update	Receive update on progress	Keeping informed
	Half Moon Bay Update	Information dissemination	Keeping informed
	Traffic island at intersection of Shelley Beach Parade, Pah Road and Churchill Rd , Cockle Bay	Provide direction on preferred approach	Setting direction/priorities/budget
	Feedback and update on Arts Forum	Provide direction on preferred approach	Setting direction/priorities/budget
Jun-16
	Business Meeting
	Local Grants Round Two	Formal approval	Local initiatives/specific decisions
	Annual Plan - adopt LB agreements, fees and charges schedule and agree work programmes	Formal adoption	Setting direction/priorities/budget

	Workshop
	Local Grants Round Two	Determine allocation of funding	Local initiatives/specific decisions
	Half Moon Bay Ferry Terminal Update	Receive update on progress	Local initiatives/specific decisions

Jul-16
	Business Meeting

	Workshop
	Half Moon Bay Ferry Terminal Update	Receive update on progress	Local initiatives/specific decisions

Aug-16
	Business Meeting

	Workshop
	Half Moon Bay Ferry Terminal Update	Receive update on progress	Local initiatives/specific decisions

N/A
	Report requested/pending
	Emelia Maude Nixon Garden of Memories - Matariki contract	Receive update on progress	Local initiatives/specific decisions

[1] To be considered to be a practical off a leash area, the area was required to be accessible and have sufficient area to undertake typical off a leash a leash activities (e.g. throwing a ball or running around). The minimum area of open grass was 400m² with minimum dimensions of 15 metres by 15 metres.

Chairperson	David Collings
Deputy Chairperson	Adele White
Members	Garry Boles
	Katrina Bungard
	Jim Donald
	Lucy Schwaner
	John Spiller
	Steve Udy
	Bob Wichman

2016/17 funding rounds	Opens	Closes	Decision made	Projects to occur after
Round one	13 July 2016	14 August 2016	12 September 2016	1 October 2016
Round two	5 September 2016	7 October 2016	December 2016	1 January 2017
Round three	27 February 2017	24 March 2017	May 2017	1 June 2017
Round four	3 April 2017	28 April 2017	June 2017	1 July 2017

No.	Title	Page
a View	Howick Workshop Notes 29 March	255
b View	Howick Workshop Notes 31 March	257
c View	Howick Workshop Notes 5 April	259
d View	Howick Workshop Notes 7 April	261
e View	Howick Workshop Notes 12 April	263
f View	Howick Workshop Notes 14 April	265
g View	Howick Workshop Notes 19 April	267

Item	Presenter
Sports Facilities Investment Plan The discussion document was reviewed. Initial feedback was provided by the Board on preferences and the general direction required. Formal feedback opportunities will be made available at a later date.	Nadia de Blaauw, Deanna McLoughlin
Bucklands Beach Bowling Club lease The lease terms were discussed. Finalisation is on hold till more information is received. Eastgate Christian Centre – additional building The land classification options and the designated land area were discussed. Uxbridge Arts & Culture Centre The lease term and land classification were discussed. Further information is to be reported back to the board, prior to final proposals being presented to the May business meeting.	Jenny Young
Public meeting plans - Greenmount Closure and Bucklands Beach Walkway Staff presented and discussed the plans for two public meetings in April, for the Board’s information and action.	Gemma Buxton

Authors	Janette McKain - Local Board Democracy Advisor
Authorisers