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Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei Reserves Board
14 August 2023
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Operations
Report
File No.: CP2023/10387
Te take mō te
pūrongo
Purpose of the report
1. To
update the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Reserves Board (reserves
board) on the operational work carried out on the whenua by Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei Whai Maiā.
Whakarāpopototanga matua
Executive summary
2. The
12-month maintenance grant arrangement to date, has been successful. An
approval for a 12-month maintenance grant for FY23/24 is requested.
3. Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei is continuing to advance the Work Schedule and in
collaboration with Auckland Council carries out regular audit hīkoi to
enhance alignment with the maintenance agreement outcomes and performance
standards.
4. The
operations team have continued to make good progress and have had a busy month
with the lead up to Matariki and end of the financial year. This has seen a
hive of activity across the whenua with remediation, maintenance work and
supporting events.
5. A
critical incident at Pourewa was effectively managed by Kaitiaki Service and
Whai Maia senior leaders. However, it has brought to light the low awareness of
Health & Safety responsibilities among certain team leaders and the broader
staff. To urgently address this issue, comprehensive training is being
initiated to enhance safety awareness and accountability throughout the
organization.
6. We
are committed to providing immediate support and ongoing reinforcement to
instill a strong safety culture at Pourewa. Engaging all stakeholders in this
endeavor, we seek to create a safer environment where everyone takes
responsibility for Health & Safety, ensuring the well-being of all team
members involved.
7. The
process of transferring Kaitiaki Services from the Ngāti Whātua
Ōrākei Trust to Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Maia is
experiencing minor delays. This is due to the need for meticulous handling of
service specifics and human resources considerations. The situation, however,
presents an opportunity for us to explore potential enhancements to the
existing service. Despite this, the services are functioning normally, and the
leadership team is diligently working to ensure a seamless transition and
successful integration.
8. We
are pleased to share the success of the Matariki Planting Day at Pourewa on
Sunday, 23 July, where over 150 participants, including whānau and
friends, came together for a significant event. This gathering marked the
establishment of the “Te Pā o Rongo” medicinal garden, aiming
to educate the community about the healing properties of native plants and
their application.
9. We
are delighted to also report the outstanding success of the Matariki
celebrations, which witnessed a remarkable turnout of 2500 participants, braving
the cold to commemorate this special event. The occasion provided a meaningful
moment for remembrance, reflections, and anticipation as we looked forward to
the approaching new year.
10. Toi Taiao
played a significant role in deepening their understanding of ariki, with a
special focus on the umu kohukohu whetu tradition, marking the third
consecutive year of its celebration. Our appreciation goes to all who
contributed to making this Matariki celebration truly special and culturally
significant.
11. Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei has been working to upgrade the Kepa Road / Kupe
Street Intersection, addressing safety concerns and preparing for increased
housing in the area. The project aligns with the Ōrākei
Masterplan’s aspirations, with traffic lights and a raised table planned
for installation. Positive discussions are underway with staff to ensure
alignment with future plans for Pourewa and incorporate cultural design
elements from the Masterplan.
Ngā tūtohunga
Recommendation/s
That the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
Reserves Board:
a) note
the operational updates as detailed in this report.
b) approve
the 12-month Maintenance grant for FY23/24.
Operational Update
Whenua Maintenance & Ecology
12. Horticulture/ Vegetation: Ongoing
progress on Māra Kai, experiencing issues with amount of water this season
that is saturating garden beds and causing issues with pathways. Nursery
operations have completed audit and stock take from previous year.
13. Turf:
Board Report: We address the challenges posed by
ongoing wet weather, causing delays in specific areas on the whenua, and damage
at the top of Takaparawhau due to recent Matariki celebrations and Manu Aute
day. To protect the whenua amidst increasing event numbers, we propose structured
planning and designated locations for gatherings. Our winter events hold
immense value, so organising them thoughtfully will preserve the land and
enhance the overall experience for attendees.
14. The
management team is developing a solution involving permeable paving. These
systems include robust ground stabilization mats, offering an environmentally
friendly, permeable, and cost-efficient alternative to conventional concrete
paving solutions. We view this as a potential solution, ensuring usability
during the winter months without compromising the aesthetics of the whenua.
Once our investigation is complete, management will provide more detailed
reports and business cases.
Moving forward, we will engage with
management to incorporate their insights and uphold our cultural values. By
adopting this strategic approach, we ensure the preservation of our ancestral
lands while celebrating our heritage sustainably. Your continued support will
help us navigate this path for future events.
15. Ecological Restoration – Weed, Plant and Pest Control: Ecological work is ongoing, and growth has slowed which is to be
expected with the cold months. Weed species to note is increasing in Pampas
grass - Cortaderia selloana which we are targeting before the spring when
growth increases. Also, the usual suspects, Chinese privet, Ligustrum sinense,
Broad leaf privet Ligustrum lucidum and Lonicera japonica, known as Japanese
honeysuckle
16. Ecological Restoration – Pest Animal Control: Ongoing support from eastern songbird in completing trapping rounds
across Pourewa and Whenua Rangatira.
17. Parakore: Ongoing work at Pourewa and ongoing servicing of events on the
reserve: Matariki 2023 & Manu Aute day. With both events estimating a
combined attendance of over 2000 people over two consecutive days had managed
waste to send only 10% of total waste to landfill.
Volunteers and Visiting Groups
18. Volunteers: Have recorded 195 volunteers
in the last month including the Matariki planting day.
19. Visitors:
Have recorded 30 visitors hosted onsite by staff
Biodiversity
20. Bio-diversity
monitoring: The team is continually reassessing this objective to determine
its relevance to Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and to clarify its
intended purpose.
21. Water
monitoring: Water testing routine established in partnership with Healthy
Waters reports and findings and reports on tranche 1 tributaries available on
request.
Health and Safety
22. Pukeko
Incident Report: On Tuesday, 20 June 2023, at 1.40
pm, on the Whenua Papakainga between Takitimu Street and Kitemoana St, people
were seen with firearms. At this point, it was unclear as to what sort of guns
they had and who they were.
Kaitiaki Service Senior Staff Member
enacted a “Shelter in Place “procedure at Te Puna Reo (TPR). A
“full security lockdown” was notified, at TPR and Whai Maia Ltd.
The Police were informed and asked to
respond to the event. A response unit was activated by the Police.
Kaitiaki Service Staff went to the location
to view the situation from high ground. As they viewed the scene, they
recognised one of the individuals (who was an employee), and in speaking to
them, it became apparent that there was no imminent threat. The Police were
then notified; however, they were enroute, and 10 minutes out.
The manager of the employees arrived on the
Marae with the employees, and they met with the police. No charges were laid by
the police, and an investigation has been undertaken internally with the
employees. The employment investigation was set up and conducted by an
independent HR Contractor.
As a result of the incident, the employees
were asked to complete a post-incident drug test, completed by The Drug
Detection Agency (NZTDDA).
Result of Investigation
As a result of the investigation, it was
apparent the employees had innocently used air rifles while under instructions
to kill pukeko for Te Umu Kohukohu Whetu. They had not considered the
consequences of carrying air rifles in public.
There were two air rifles among the three,
and the leader of the team took full responsibility for his actions. All three
were very sorry for what had taken place. The team leader's decisions were not influenced by drug impairment.
In light of the employees taking
responsibility for their actions, it was decided to issue a formal written
warning, documenting their non-compliance with policy.
Health and Safety Response
A review of the Lockdown procedures at the
Puna Reo and Whai Maia premises found that the Puna Reo performed well,
however, Whai Maia staff were observed leaving the premises once the lockdown
was notified. Training will be required to emphasize the need to stay in place.
The actions of two team members who
approached the group with guns were also reviewed and although in this case
their actions prevented a possible confrontation with Police, their actions
were seen to be reckless if the potential assailants had more sinister
intentions. In future any reconnaissance should be left to the Police.
Action points for Health and Safety and
as a result of the investigation
The following action is to be completed as
part of the investigation:
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ACTION POINTS
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- Training in lockdowns to
be given to all staff and reinforced with a lockdown drill to ensure
compliance.
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- Health
& Safety Training for all staff and Leaders at Pourewa
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- Random
drug testing is to be set up going forward for drivers and employees using
equipment
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- Management
to develop protocols for culling for pūkeko and pest animals such as
rabbits.
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Summary
In summary, this incident was well managed
by those who led what was a critical incident. However, it is apparent that the
awareness of Health & Safety responsibilities among some team leaders at
Pourewa and the wider team is currently low and urgent training has been
undertaken to resolve this.
Maintenance Work Outside of Scope
23. There is no maintenance work outside of scope to report.
Kaitiaki Service
24. The
process of transferring Kaitiaki Services from the Ngāti Whātua
Ōrākei Trust to Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Maia is
experiencing minor delays. This is due to the need for meticulous handling of
service specifics and human resources considerations. The situation, however,
presents an opportunity for us to explore potential enhancements to the
existing service.
25. The
services continue to operate as usual while the leadership team carefully work
to ensure a seamless transition and smooth and successful integration.
Matariki Planting Day
26. We
are pleased to share that Sunday, the 23rd, witnessed a truly remarkable day at
Pourewa, as over 150 individuals, including both whānau and friends, came
together for a momentous planting event. This gathering served as a crucial
milestone in the establishment of the initial stage of our medicinal garden,
aptly named "Te Pā o Rongo."
The concept of Te Pā o Rongo
represents a valuable addition to Pourewa, as it aims to educate both the
public and our whānau about the numerous native plants that possess
significant healing properties. The garden serves as an informative space,
enlightening visitors on the identification, harvesting, and application of
these medicinal remedies.
By engaging a sizeable number of
participants, the event underscored the enthusiastic support from our community
for such initiatives. The presence of whānau and friends demonstrates the
shared commitment to preserving and promoting the knowledge of traditional
healing practices and the inherent wisdom of our ancestors.
As we move forward, we envision Te Pā
o Rongo to be a beacon of learning and cultural heritage, fostering a deeper
appreciation for the medicinal value of native flora. The collective efforts
invested in this project signify the ongoing dedication of Pourewa to serve as
a space that nurtures cultural understanding and holistic well-being.
We extend our gratitude to all who attended
and participated in this significant planting event, as it sets the stage for a
thriving medicinal garden that will continue to benefit our community for
generations to come.
Matariki Kainga Hokia, Matariki Ahikā 2023
27. We
are delighted to report that the Matariki celebrations were an outstanding
success, drawing a remarkable turnout of 2500 individuals who braved the cold
to participate in this special event. The occasion provided a moment of
remembrance, reflection, and anticipation for the approaching new year.
Toi Taiao played a significant role in the
festivities by focusing on deepening our understanding of ariki, with
particular emphasis on the umu kohukohu whetu. This marks the second
consecutive year of celebrating Matariki with a umu kohukohu whetu, a tradition
that holds great importance for us. Our team dedicated themselves to following
the time-honored customs and rituals of our tribal lands and waters while
gathering all the necessary components.
By incorporating karakia, maramataka, and
refined practices, we accomplished the remarkable feat of growing our own
kumara from scratch in our garden at Pourewa. Additionally, we adhered to the
maramataka in catching Tuna from our Purewa creek and fishing from the
traditional fishing grounds. We also took part in snaring Manu on the whenua
and harvested honey from our own beehives.
The team's unwavering commitment was
evident as they worked tirelessly throughout the night, culminating in a
successful and authentic umu that embodied the cherished custom of whāngai
hau—a vital aspect of the Umu tradition.
We extend our gratitude to all who
contributed to making this Matariki celebration truly special and culturally
significant. Mānawatia ā Matariki!
Kepa Road Lights Project
28. Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei has received funding to upgrade the Kepa Road /
Kupe Street Intersection to address the current safety concerns and future
proof for the increase in housing in the area. An upgrade to the intersection
was part of the korero and aspirations captured by Ngāti Whātua
Ōrākei for the Ōrākei Masterplan. The project team explored
alternative options and have settled on installing traffic lights and having a
raised table which is in line with the Ōrākei Masterplan.
29. There
has been positive initial discussion with staff to discuss how the project can
enable and alight with future plans for Pourewa as well as how we might also
incorporate or at the very least ensure that cultural design elements are
incorporated in the future as expressed in the Masterplan.
30. The
project is progressing nicely with Resource Consent for tree removal and future
work around existing trees been submitted. We have commenced detailed design
and are due to hold a pre-app meeting with Auckland Council for the EPA consent
prior to submission. We have spoken to directly affected businesses near the
corner of Kepa and Kupe to inform them of the initial plan with largely
positive response. There were two concerned parties whose concerns were largely
around Auckland’s greater congestion issues. Their feedback has been
taken on board.
31. Regular
monthly meetings have been initiated with Vector and this will be expanded to
include other service providers as required. Auckland Transport have advised us
that works cannot begin until after the Eastern Rail Line works are complete
and the rail line is open for public transport use. We estimate a Quarter 1
2024 construction start date and a Quarter 4 2024 project completion date.
Maintenance Grant
Following a 6 months trial in the 2021
Financial Year, The Ngāti Whātua Ōrakei Reserve Board approved a
12 month grant for the 2022/2023 Financial Year for $1,000,000. In previous
years this has been managed through a contract for the same amount of funding
rather than a grant. The move to a grant process is in line with the approved
NWORB Funding Agreement between NWORB and Auckland Council.
The grant process creates a number of
efficiencies for both parties. Including ensuring that there is no lag in time
between works being complete and payment of contracts (in previous years
Ngāti Whātua Trust or Whāi Maia have had significant delays
before being paid by Auckland Council).
The
Grant is audited by Auckland Council staff to ensure that work is being
complete to a high standard and that rates are comparable to current market
rates. There has been no requests for additional funding in the past
couple of years for maintenance related work.
Ngā tāpirihanga
Attachments
There are no attachments for
this report.
Ngā kaihaina
Signatories
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Author
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Kīngi Makoare –
Pou Hapai Tikanga/Taiao, Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Maia
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Authorisers
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Lisa Davis – Chief
Executive Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Trust
Nicholas Turoa –
Kaiwhakahaere Te Waka Tai-ranga-whenua, Auckland Council
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Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei Reserves Board
14 August 2023
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Project Reports
File No.: CP2023/10389
Te take mō te
pūrongo
Purpose of the report
1. To
update the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Reserves Board on the active
projects underway in relation to the Combined Reserve Management Plan,
Urupā, Pourewa Access: Pathways & Signage (Phase 3), Pourewa Nursery
Expansion, Renewals and Upgrades Pourewa and Whenua Rangatira and Pourewa Storm
Damage – Remediation and Preventative Works.
Whakarāpopototanga matua
Executive summary
2. The
completion of the Combined Reserve Management Plan's final design has
experienced a delay. The Board can expect to receive the finalised design at
the October meeting. The management team is currently seeking guidance
regarding the procedure to secure Ministerial approval in October 2023.
3. Urupā:
Shane Lander (LDE) will be engaged once again to ensure a consistent approach
and reporting for the Takaparawhau urupā testing site. The testing
methodology will mirror recent sites: a manual 3-meter-deep auger bore hole
will be used to assess soil characteristics, coupled with the installation of a
groundwater monitoring standpipe for monthly measurements. Due to the currently
saturated ground conditions near the Takaparawhau memorial site, it's been
suggested that the installation of the groundwater monitoring standpipe be
postponed until the ground dries out, potentially aiming for early summer;
however, this decision is pending confirmation from management. The project's
working group will persist in identifying crucial milestones, refining project
specifications, and initiating stakeholder engagement to pinpoint an
appropriate site.
4. Phase
3 of the Pourewa Pathways & Signage project's design aspects have been
successfully completed, including the pathways, wayfinding marker posts, and
signage design, all incorporating the approved colour palette and font.
Progress is being made in creating mown paths, although adverse weather
conditions have affected the regular schedule. Additionally, a new aggregate
pathway to the northeast has been fully constructed. However, construction of
steps to a steep slope behind the nursery has been temporarily halted due to
safety concerns arising from the wet ground. Once conditions improve, the
construction is expected to take around 4 weeks to finish.
5. The
Nursery expansion: Morphum has been appointed for civil and stormwater
engineering, marked by a kick-off design meeting. In light of an additional
plant bay, the agreed design scope entails civil and stormwater planning for a
new 5th plant bay. This includes preparing designs suitable for Resource
Consent, tendering, and construction. Additionally, the design will explore
ways to enhance stormwater retention for irrigation, reducing reliance on
potable water. An evaluation of potential contaminants from water sources, such
as machinery-rich driveways and Kepa Road runoff, will determine the need for
further treatment. The project also seeks to incorporate nature-based solutions
in stormwater design to bolster water quality and align with broader site
regeneration efforts.
6. The
Whenua Rangatira shared path has been successfully paved, offering a new route
for pedestrians and cyclists. Additionally, the Pourewa area has undergone
revitalization with the clearance of overgrown spaces and gardens, as well as
the renovation of the pathway leading to St. Joseph's school. The removal and
filling of the Mara Kai Pond have been finished as planned. The project is on
track financially and progressing as scheduled.
7. Pourewa
Storm Damage - Remediation and Preventative Works project has been successfully
completed, resulting in improved functionality and safety. The swales have been
cleared of debris and are functioning as intended. Pathways and driveways that
were previously damaged have been repaired, ensuring safe access and
eliminating trip hazards. Additionally, tree pruning has been carried out,
enhancing the overall aesthetic and health of the area. The project was
accomplished within the allocated budget.
Ngā tūtohunga
Recommendation/s
That the Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei
Reserves Board:
a) note
the project update reports
· Combined
Reserve Management Plan
· Urupā
· Pourewa
Pathways & Signage Phase 3
· Pourewa
Nursery Expansion
· Renewals
and Upgrades Pourewa and Whenua Rangatira
· Pourewa
Storm Damage – Remediation and Preventative Works
Ngā tāpirihanga
Attachments
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No.
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Title
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Page
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a⇩
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Combined Reserve Management Plan
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21
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b⇩
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Urupā
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27
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c⇩
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Pourewa Pathways & Signage (Phase 3)
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31
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d⇩
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Pourewa Nursery Expansion
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37
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e⇩
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Renewals and Upgrades Pourewa and Whenua Rangatira
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43
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f⇩
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Pourewa Storm Damage – Remediation and
Preventative Works
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49
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Ngā kaihaina
Signatories
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Authors
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Kirsty Hill – Project Manager, Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei Whai Maia
Kīngi Makoare – Pou Hapai Tikanga/Taiao,
Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei Whai Maia
Lisa Davis – Chief Executive Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei Trust
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Authorisers
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Lisa Davis – Chief Executive Ngāti
Whātua Ōrākei Trust
Nicholas Turoa – Kaiwhakahaere Te Waka
Tai-ranga-whenua, Auckland Council
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