Agenda of Hauraki Gulf Forum - Monday, 3 March 2025

I hereby give notice that an ordinary meeting of the Hauraki Gulf Forum will be held on:

Date:

Time:

Meeting Room:

Venue:

Monday, 3 March 2025

1.00pm

Waikato Regional Council Chambers
160 Ward Street
Hamilton Central

Hauraki Gulf Forum

OPEN AGENDA

MEMBERSHIP

Co-chairperson Tangata Whenua	Ms Nicola Rata-MacDonald	Tangata Whenua
Members	Mayor Toby Adams	Hauraki District Council
	Ms Charmaine Bailie	Tangata Whenua
	Mr Joe Davis	Tangata Whenua
	Cr Christine Fletcher	Auckland Council
	Mr Terrence Hohneck	Tangata Whenua
	Mr Jacob Hore	Ministry for Primary Industries
	Mr Tom Irvine	Tangata Whenua
	Cr Mike Lee	Auckland Council
	Cr Kerrin Leoni	Auckland Council
	Cr Warren Maher	Waikato Regional Council
	Mr Martin Mariassouce	Te Puni Kōkiri
	Cr Paaniora Matatahi-Poutapu	Waikato District Council
	Mr Dean Ogilvie	Tangata Whenua
	Mr Chris Ollivier	Aotea / Great Barrier Local Board (Auckland Council)
	Ms Bianca Ranson	Waiheke Local Board (Auckland Council)
	Mr Alex Rogers	Department of Conservation
	Cr James Sainsbury	Matamata-Piako District Council
	Mayor Len Salt	Thames-Coromandel District Council
	Cr Wayne Walker	Auckland Council
	Cr John Watson	Auckland Council

(Quorum 11 members)

Mike Giddey

Kaitohutohu Mana Whakahaere / Governance Advisor

24 February 2025

Contact Telephone: 027 221 7183

Email: mike.giddey@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Website: www.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Selected extracts from the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act 2000

3 Purpose

The purpose of this Act is to—

(a) integrate the management of the natural, historic, and physical resources of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments:

(b) establish the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park:

(d) recognise the historic, traditional, cultural, and spiritual relationship of the tangata whenua with the Hauraki Gulf and its islands:

(e) establish the Hauraki Gulf Forum.

Part 1 Management of Hauraki Gulf

7 Recognition of national significance of Hauraki Gulf

(1) The interrelationship between the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments and the ability of that interrelationship to sustain the life-supporting capacity of the environment of the Hauraki Gulf and its islands are matters of national significance.

(2) The life-supporting capacity of the environment of the Gulf and its islands includes the capacity—

(a) to provide for—

(i) the historic, traditional, cultural, and spiritual relationship of the tangata whenua of the Gulf with the Gulf and its islands; and

(ii) the social, economic, recreational, and cultural well-being of people and communities:

(b) to use the resources of the Gulf by the people and communities of the Gulf and New Zealand for economic activities and recreation:

8 Management of Hauraki Gulf

To recognise the national significance of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments, the objectives of the management of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments are—

(a) the protection and, where appropriate, the enhancement of the life-supporting capacity of the environment of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments:

(b) the protection and, where appropriate, the enhancement of the natural, historic, and physical resources of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments:

(c) the protection and, where appropriate, the enhancement of those natural, historic, and physical resources (including kaimoana) of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments with which tangata whenua have an historic, traditional, cultural, and spiritual relationship:

(d) the protection of the cultural and historic associations of people and communities in and around the Hauraki Gulf with its natural, historic, and physical resources:

(e) the maintenance and, where appropriate, the enhancement of the contribution of the natural, historic, and physical resources of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments to the social and economic well-being of the people and communities of the Hauraki Gulf and New Zealand:

(f) the maintenance and, where appropriate, the enhancement of the natural, historic, and physical resources of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments, which contribute to the recreation and enjoyment of the Hauraki Gulf for the people and communities of the Hauraki Gulf and New Zealand.

Part 2 Hauraki Gulf Forum

15 Purposes of Forum

The Forum has the following purposes:

(a) to integrate the management and, where appropriate, to promote the conservation and management in a sustainable manner, of the natural, historic, and physical resources of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments, for the benefit and enjoyment of the people and communities of the Gulf and New Zealand:

(b) to facilitate communication, co-operation, and co-ordination on matters relating to the statutory functions of the constituent parties in relation to the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments, and the Forum:

(c) to recognise the historic, traditional, cultural, and spiritual relationship of tangata whenua with the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and, where appropriate, its catchments.

16 Establishment of Forum

(1) A body called the Hauraki Gulf Forum is established.

(2) The Forum consists of the following representatives:

(a) 1 representative appointed by the Minister:

(b) 1 representative appointed by the Minister of Fisheries:

(ca) 7 representatives appointed by the Auckland Council:

(d) 1 representative appointed by each of the following local authorities:

…(iv) Hauraki District Council:

…(vi) Matamata-Piako District Council:

…(ix) Thames-Coromandel District Council:

…(x) Waikato District Council:

…(xi) Waikato Regional Council:

(e) 6 representatives of the tangata whenua of the Hauraki Gulf and its islands appointed by the Minister, after consultation with the tangata whenua and the Minister of Maori Affairs.

(2A) The representatives appointed in accordance with subsection (2)(ca) must—

(a) be members of—

(i) the Auckland Council; or

(ii) a local board of the Auckland Council elected in accordance with the Local Electoral Act 2001; and

(b) include 1 member of each of the Great Barrier Island and Waiheke Island local boards.

(3) The representatives appointed in accordance with subsection (2)(d) or (5) must be members of the local authority elected in accordance with the Local Electoral Act 2001.

17 Functions of Forum

(1) To promote sections 7 and 8, the Forum has the following functions in relation to the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments:

(a) to prepare a list of strategic issues, determine a priority for action on each issue, and regularly review that list:

(b) to facilitate and encourage co-ordinated financial planning, where possible, by the constituent parties:

(d) to receive reports on the completion and implementation of deeds of recognition:

(e) to require and receive reports from constituent parties on the development and implementation of policies and strategies to address the issues identified under paragraph (a):

(f) to receive reports from the tangata whenua of the Hauraki Gulf on the development and implementation of iwi management or development plans:

(g) to prepare and publish, once every 3 years, a report on the state of the environment in the Hauraki Gulf, including information on progress towards integrated management and responses to the issues identified in accordance with paragraph (a):

(h) to promote and advocate the integrated management and, where appropriate, the sustainable management of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments:

(i) to encourage, share, co-ordinate where appropriate, and disseminate educational and promotional material:

(j) to liaise with, and receive reports from, persons and groups having an interest in the Hauraki Gulf and business and community interests to promote an interest in the purposes of the Forum:

(k) to commission research into matters relating to the functions of the Forum.

(2) When carrying out its functions under subsection (1), the Forum must have particular regard to the historic, traditional, cultural, and spiritual relationship of tangata whenua with the natural, historic, and physical resources of the Hauraki Gulf, its islands, and catchments.

18 Powers of Forum

(1) The Forum has the powers that are reasonably necessary to carry out its functions.

(2) The Forum’s powers include the powers—

(a) to consider issues related to its purpose; and

(b) to receive reports from constituent parties; and

(d) to advise any person who requests the Forum’s advice; and

(e) to commission or undertake those activities that are necessary to achieve its purpose.

(3) The Forum must not—

(a) appear before a court or tribunal other than as a witness if called by a party to proceedings; or

(b) take part in a decision-making process under any enactment other than to advise when requested to do so.

Governance Statement – updated May 2021

Whakatauki

“He waka kōtuia kāhore e tukutukua ngā mimira.”

A canoe that is interlaced will not become separated at the bow. In unity there is strength.” In the highly developed craft of building ocean going waka the bow section was laced to the centre hull. The waka provides a metaphor for tangata whenua, in that a people interlaced will not be separated and through that unity we find strength.

This Governance Statement replaces all prior versions. It covers how the Forum works, and key roles and responsibilities. The Forum’s purposes, membership, functions and powers are set out in detail in Part 2 of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act 2000 (HGMPA) and are not repeated here.

How the Forum works

Te whakahonore i o maatau hononga Tiriti hei painga mo Te Moananui-ō-Toi; Tīkapa Moana; Hauraki Gulf. The Forum will operate in partnership under the Treaty of Waitangi in accordance with the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act, including the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi under Section 6.

It will integrate and respect both Te Ao Māori and other world views.

The Forum’s conduct, and all those that interact with it, will adhere to the intent of the following principles:

· Aroha: being considerate – having respect for relationships and being of service.

· Openness and impartiality: having an open mind when making decisions and listening to other points of view.

· Tautoko: supporting others by respecting and upholding others mana, dignity, identity and unique perspective.

· Manaaki: caring for others by responsibly valuing others and ensuring they feel valued.

· Stewardship: using powers and resources prudently.

· Awhi: helping others by entering into effective engagements in the spirit of co-operation and good faith.

· Leadership: inspiring action toward achieving common goals.

· Tika: being responsible – doing the right thing with integrity and accountability.

· Pono: being effective – building credibility.

· Ethics: maintaining the highest standard of ethical conduct.

The Forum will endeavour to meet quarterly, with meetings split between the Auckland and Waikato regions. It will hold additional workshops and meetings as required.

Our Roles and Responsibilities

- Co-Chairs

o One Co-Chair is from and elected by the membership at large

o One Co-Chair is from and decided by the Tangata Whenua members

o Co-Chairs lead the Forum and are its spokespeople

o Co-Chairs work in partnership with each other

o Co-Chairs exemplify the principles by which we work

o Co-Chairs chair Forum meetings, set strategic direction, support and work with all Members, and front public engagement

(A separate Co-Chairing arrangement records the practical aspects of Co-Chairing)

- Members

o Members support and work with the Co-Chairs and each other to take effective decisions and progress the agenda of the Forum

o Members bring their expertise and mana to ensure quality decision making in the interests of the Marine Park

o Members represent their Constituent Party, as defined under the HGMPA

o Members may send alternates to meetings they are unable to attend so long as this is notified in advance and in accordance with any applicable practice

- Executive Officer

o The Executive Officer functions as the Chief Executive of the Forum and is responsible for taking forward resolutions of the Forum, ensuring adherence to the HGMPA, supporting the Co-Chairs and all Members, preparing meeting papers, coordination with external partners, and the Forum’s management, contracts, finance and administration.

o The Executive Officer chairs meetings of Technical Officers and works closely with the Governance Advisor.

- Governance Advisor

o The Governance Advisor is responsible for collating and publishing meeting agendas, writing minutes and providing advice on process.

- Technical Officers

o Members are encouraged to have technical officers to provide them and the Forum with expert support and advice.

o Technical Officers will work with their Members, the Executive Officer and each other to progress the Forum’s resolutions, as appropriate.

- Administering Authority

o Auckland Council is the Administering Authority (for responsibilities see s28, HGMPA)

Review

This Governance Statement will be reviewed every 3 years.

1 Apologies

2 Declaration of Interest

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

3 Confirmation of Minutes

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) confirm the ordinary minutes of its meeting, held on Monday, 26 August 2024, including the confidential section, as a true and correct record.

4 Public Forum

4.1 Public Forum - Recent High Court Judgements with relevance to the constituent parties of the Hauraki Gulf Forum

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. Dr Matthew Hall, Environment Law Initiative will present two significant recent High Court judgements including CRA1 (NZ Rock Lobster Fishery extending from the Kaipara Harbour on the west coast of the North Island around North Cape and then south to Te Arai Point).

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) thank Dr Matthew Hall, Environment Law Initiative for his presentation on two significant recent High Court judgements including CRA1.

5 Extraordinary Business

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hauraki Gulf Forum

03 March 2025

Co-chairperson Tangata Whenua Report

File No.: CP2024/17787

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To provide an update from the Co-chairperson Tangata Whenua to the Hauraki Gulf Forum.

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

2. It has been a long time since we last met in August 2024, and I hope that 2025 has started well for you all.

3. Mayor Toby Adams resigned as Co-chairperson on 3 December 2024. I would like to take this opportunity to formally acknowledge the significant contribution that Toby made to the Hauraki Gulf Forum during his time as Co-chairperson. We are fortunate that he stays on as a member to assist in our efforts to protect the Gulf.

4. Local elections this year will significantly add to the workload for many of the members and it is vital that we have a good process in place to support the incoming Co-chairperson. I am very happy to meet informally with any members to discuss the role of Co-chairperson including the workload and time commitment involved.

5. 2025 is a milestone year. The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park – and therefore the Forum – turned 25 in February. We are turning our minds to the best way to celebrate our anniversary and will return to this later in the agenda.

6. 2025 also marks 50 years since the establishment of New Zealand’s first Marine Reserve at Cape Rodney-Okakari Point (Goat Island). This is an auspicious milestone for marine protection in Aotearoa New Zealand.

7. Many important initiatives have been instigated through the Hauraki Gulf Forum, and we have built up a strong foundation of evidence for the state of the Gulf, and a strong reputation as a trusted advocate.

8. However, we still have a long way to go. The Gulf continues to suffer ecological decline as a result of cumulative impacts from the sea, from the land and from climate change, threatening the precious ecosystems. Our role as defenders and enhancers and our goals remain critically important:

· A healthy catchment

· At least 30% marine protection

· A restored seafloor.

9. After the unanimous endorsement by the Environment Select Committee of the Hauraki Gulf Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill we were dismayed at the Government’s announcement that while it supports the Bill, it proposes to allow commercial fishing in two of the Highly Protected Areas. This is inconsistent with the fundamental purpose of the Marine Protection Bill, and compromises progress towards the 30% protection that is our goal. We have voiced our opposition to this change and will continue to monitor the progress of the Bill.

10. Despite the work that has been done through the National Advisory Group, we remain concerned that insufficient progress is being made in response to the exotic caulerpa infestation. The Forum maintains its advocacy for a three-pronged approach:

· Sustained management, ongoing funding and a coordinated strategy involving all stakeholders

· Diverse responses suited to different environments

· Community education and awareness to enable rapid responses.

11. Given the concerns we all have at the ongoing spread of exotic caulerpa and the extensive efforts under way to control it, I was shocked to learn that a superyacht with a dirty hull was permitted to visit our waters, despite failing to meet biosecurity standards. Our Gulf deserves better.

12. Collaboration is critical if we are to make progress in the face of ongoing threats to the Hauraki Gulf. We all have a part to play to protect and enhance the Gulf. I look forward to working with you all this year.

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) note the report from the Co-chairperson Tangata Whenua.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Author

Nicola Rata-MacDonald

Hauraki Gulf Forum

03 March 2025

Process to discuss responsibilities of the Co-chairpersons and governance functions

File No.: CP2025/02030

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To discuss the joint responsibilities of the Hauraki Gulf Forum for governance including the responsibilities of the Co-chairpersons.

2. To confirm the timing of the election of the new Co-chairperson.

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

3. The resignation of Mayor Toby Adams as Co-chairperson requires the appointment of his successor.

4. The Co-chairperson Tangata Whenua Nicola Rata-MacDonald has emphasised the importance of a good process to support the new Co-chairperson, particularly given forthcoming local body elections.

5. The joint responsibilities of the Forum are established by the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act 2000 and augmented in the Governance Statement, which is due for its 3-yearly review which will take place later this year following the appointment of the new Co-chairperson.

6. Guidance found in the foundational documents of the HGF with respect to chairing and management of the agenda are found in Attachment A. These include:

a) The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act (HGMPA 2000) established the Hauraki Gulf Forum. The HGMPA specified the functions and purpose of the Forum and specified that the procedures of the HGF follow Local Government Standing Orders.

b) Other documents introduced since the establishment of the Forum including the Governance Statement, Terms of Reference, Co-Chairing Agreement, Executive Officer Position Description and the 2018 Service Level Agreement between HGF and Auckland Council.

7. To summarise the position in relation to the election of the Co-chairperson:

a) HGMPA 2000: the Forum may appoint a chairperson from time to time.

b) Standing Orders:

i) Following a general election the chief executive must call a meeting as soon as possible.

c) Governance Statement:

i) One Co-chairperson is from and elected by the membership at large.

ii) The Executive Officer operates as the Chief Executive of the Forum, preparing meeting papers.

iii) The Governance Advisor is responsible for collating and publishing meeting agendas, writing minutes and providing advice on process.

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) confirm the joint responsibilities of the Hauraki Gulf Forum and its Co-chairpersons

b) confirm the timing of the election of the new Co-chairperson.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a ⇩	Summary of HGF foundational documents pertaining to the appointment of the Co-Chairperson	17

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Author	Lucy Baragwanath - Executive Officer Hauraki Gulf Forum
Authoriser	Sam Hill - General Manager Environmental Services

Hauraki Gulf Forum

03 March 2025

Constituent Party Reports

File No.: CP2025/01903

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To update the Hauraki Gulf Forum (HGF) on key developments among its Constituent Parties.

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

2. The HGF has received a joint written briefing from the Department of Conservation and Fisheries New Zealand (Attachment A). Also attached is the Mokohinau Caulerpa Post Survey Summary (Attachment B).

3. The HGF received a joint written briefing from the Department of Conservation and Fisheries New Zealand for the 2 December 2024 meeting that was cancelled (Attachment C). This refers to two recent technical reports: the benthic community analysis to support the development of the Coastal and Marine Ecological Classification Standard for Deep Reefs in the Hauraki Gulf (Bell et al); and the Methods Report for the stereo baited remote underwater survey of the Hauraki Gulf. As these are substantial reports they have not been attached. Please contact Lucy Baragwanath if you would like copies.

4. The HGF received a report from Auckland Council (Attachment D).

5. The HGF has received a report from Waikato Regional Council (Attachment E).

6. The HGF received a biosecurity update from Waikato Regional Council (Attachment F).

7. Waikato Regional Council will present on the Ohinemuri River Mine Discharge Event.

8. With permission from Fisheries NZ, the HGF has received an update from NIWA on findings from the recent scallop survey in Northland and Coromandel. Please note that the draft executive summary will be shared separately as it is subject to peer review and is not to be shared more widely at present.

9. The HGF has received a biosecurity update from Biosecurity New Zealand in relation to exotic caulerpa (Attachment G).

10. The HGF will receive a verbal update from Mike Inglis, Biosecurity New Zealand, on the circumstances of the Sea Eagle superyacht which was permitted to visit the Hauraki Gulf despite non-compliance with biosecurity requirements.

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) thank the Department of Conservation and Fisheries NZ for their written reports.

b) thank Auckland Council for its written report.

c) thank the Waikato Regional Council for their written reports and presentation.

d) thank NIWA and Fisheries NZ for their update.

e) thank Biosecurity New Zealand for its updates and presentation.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a ⇩	DOC and FNZ constituent party report 3 March 2025	73
b ⇩	Mokohinau Caulerpa Post Survey Summary	77
c ⇩	DOC and FNZ Report 2 December 2024	85
d ⇩	Auckland Council constituent party report	89
e ⇩	Waikato Regional Council constituent party report	101
f ⇩	Waikato Regional Council marine biosecurity update	115
g ⇩	Biosecurity NZ caulerpa update	117

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Author	Lucy Baragwanath - Executive Officer Hauraki Gulf Forum
Authoriser	Sam Hill - General Manager Environmental Services

Hauraki Gulf Forum

03 March 2025

Hauraki Gulf Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill Discussion

File No.: CP2024/17805

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To update the Hauraki Gulf Forum (HGF) on the Hauraki Gulf Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill and to agree a collective position for the Forum.

2. To invite the HGF to consider our collective approach to forthcoming legislative changes and proposed legislation with respect to the Hauraki Gulf.

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

3. The Hauraki Gulf Forum (HGF) has the goal of 30% marine protection by 2030.

4. The HGF has strongly advocated for the Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill (the Bill), which was introduced into Parliament in August 2023.

5. The Bill built on the aspirations of SeaChange Tai Timu Tai Pari, the product of over a decade of intense work by mana whenua, community, industry, councils and other stakeholders.

6. The Bill proposed a significant increase in the protection of the Hauraki Gulf from 0.3% to 6% in terms of full protection through the extension of the two existing marine reserves, and from 6 to 18% conferred a degree of protection. This includes:

· 2 marine reserves; extending from the existing reserves Te Whanganui-o-Hei/Cathedral Cove Marine Reserve and Cape Rodney – Okakari Point (Goat Island)

· 12 high protection areas (HPAs) – these areas protect and restore marine habitats and ecosystems. They also provide for the customary practices of tangata whenua

· 5 seafloor protection areas (SPAs) – these areas protect seafloor habitats. But they still allow for activities that do not damage them, such as non-bottom contact fishing.

7. The Environment Select Committee unanimously supported the passage of the Bill in July 2024.

8. On 12 October, Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka announced that the Bill would proceed to its second reading. He also announced a departure from the Select Committee draft, with an amendment that would permit commercial fishing in two of the new HPAs.

9. The amendment is restricted to ring-net fishing targeting mullet, trevally and kahawai in two of the new HPAs, one in Kāwau Bay and one off Motutapu Island. It is restricted to up to five existing operators, at night, across the winter months.

10. The HGF Co-Chairs led a media response strongly objecting to the proposed amendment, on the basis that the proposal to allow commercial fishing in protected areas defeats the purpose of marine protection, undermining the integrity of the Bill and the principles of marine protection.

11. Other responses varied widely. For the Environmental Defence Society (EDS), the Bill is a critically important step forward even in its amended form, as it represents a major increase in protection, but that the detail of any exemption must be carefully specified^{^[1]}. Professors Thrush and Pilditch pointed out that this Bill is about marine protection, not fishing, which is managed under the Fisheries Act, and that New Zealand has signed up for 30% marine protection by 2030^{^[2]}. Councillor Mike Lee drew attention to the limited definition of ‘protection’^{^[3]}, while Forest and Bird observed the risk that allowing commercial fishing in a highly protected area risks creating a precedent^{^[4]}.

12. While far short of ideal, the 18% total protected area proposed in the Bill is a crucial step toward the HGF goal of a minimum 30% of the Gulf as Marine Protected Areas, and in line with New Zealand’s international commitments.

13. It is also notable that the 12 October 2024 announcement of the amendments occurred 4 months after the Select Committee Report unanimously supported the passing of the Bill.

14. The Bill passed its second reading on 18 December 2024.

15. The date for the final reading at the Committee for the Whole has yet to be confirmed, and it is only then that the changes will be made public.

16. In the interim, it is important to clarify the collective position of the HGF as the foundation for ongoing advocacy.

17. Proposed advocacy position: consistent with its commitment to protecting 30% of the Hauraki Gulf, the HGF calls for the Government to discard the proposed amendments to allow commercial fishing in Highly Protected Areas, and to pass the Hauraki Gulf Tīkapa Moana Bill in the form recommended by the Select Committee.

18. Other proposed legislation changes may have implications for the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act and the Hauraki Gulf Marine Protection Bill. These include the Treaty Principles Bill and Treaty clauses review, the review of the Conservation Act, and the review of the Biosecurity Act, among others. The HGF could consider evaluating the potential impact of legislative change, in addition to the submissions being prepared by each agency individually.

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum (HGF):

a) consider the implications of the Marine Protection Bill and next steps

b) endorse the position that the Forum calls for the Government to discard the proposed amendments and pass the Hauraki Gulf Tīkapa Moana Bill in the form recommended by the Select Committee

c) consider the Forum’s collective approach to responding to legislative change with implications for the Hauraki Gulf.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

There are no attachments for this report.

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Author	Lucy Baragwanath - Executive Officer Hauraki Gulf Forum
Authoriser	Sam Hill - General Manager Environmental Services

Hauraki Gulf Forum

03 March 2025

Executive Officer Report 3 March 2025

File No.: CP2025/00578

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To provide an update from the Forum’s Executive Officer.

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

2. Welcome to 2025: the 25^th anniversary of the HGMP Act and the Hauraki Gulf Forum as well as the 50^th anniversary of New Zealand’s first marine reserve at Cape Rodney-Okakari Point (and the 40^th anniversary of the sinking of the Rainbow Warrior).

3. Since starting in the role in July 2024, I have focused on building relationships with interested members of the Hauraki Gulf Forum (HGF) and key external stakeholders to understand opportunities, challenges and priorities for the Gulf and to identify where the HGF can influence and collaborate.

4. I have reflected on the pressures facing the Gulf, current legislative changes, upcoming milestones for the HGF, progress and achievements to date and opportunities to advance our priorities. I have identified opportunities to further advance the operational effectiveness of the HGF.

5. Items that are yet to be addressed from the Draft Agenda from the cancelled meeting on 2 December 2024 are included in this agenda.

Workplan Progress Update

6. Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill

a) The Bill passed its second reading on 18 December 2024, including the amendments introduced after the Select Committee Report to include commercial fishing in two of the Highly Protected Areas. There is no indication when further progress might be expected.

b) Co-Chair Tangata Whenua Nicola Rata-MacDonald fronted the initial media response on behalf of the HGF, contracted Awhi to manage related media engagement and has written to the Prime Minister endorsing the open letter from the WWF and Greenpeace requesting for the amendment to be removed (Attachment A).

c) While the proposed increase in marine protection is in line with HGF priorities, even if it does not attain the 30% by 2030 expressed in the Workplan, the inclusion of commercial fishing in highly protected areas can be seen as inconsistent with the concept of marine protection.

d) Next steps: Confirm that the HGF opposes the amendments to the Bill and calls for the Bill to be passed in the form recommended by the Select Committee and supports ongoing advocacy to this end.

7. Stopping destructive fishing

a) I attended the HG Fisheries Plan advisory group hui and noted that HGF’s position of zero commercial trawling in the Hauraki Gulf is not one of the options that was consulted on by Fisheries NZ in the HG Fisheries Plan.

b) For perspective, the NZIER 2023 report notes that commercial fishing nets $30 million per annum in the Hauraki Gulf. This return is a small fraction of the economic value of the Gulf overall, particularly given the risk of further diminishing the ecological systems of the Gulf.

c) Status: In progress.

d) Next steps: Confirm that HGF will continue to advocate for destructive fishing to be stopped in the Hauraki Gulf.

8. Exotic caulerpa

a) Two initiatives were established in 2024 to progress the response to exotic caulerpa:

a. A National Advisory Group was established to advise MPI on the response and expenditure of the $14 million from government. Next steps are not yet known.

b. A ‘Better Business Case’ commissioned from Martin Jenkins by a Ngāti Paoa-led consortium supported by local and regional government was presented to government in late 2024. This is confidential pending the government response.

b) The HGF is not directly involved in these initiatives, although clearly some of the constituent parties have been working hard over the summer in their own capacities.

c) New incursions of exotic caulerpa have been detected, and it is likely that with the changing climate and particularly marine heat waves that there will be further marine biosecurity incursions.

d) The HGF is an important forum for discussing marine biosecurity threats and responses.

e) Consistent with its purpose to promote integrated management, the HGF could actively support the integrated marine biosecurity plan being developed by the regional councils including the Clean Vessel Plan, to limit the transmission of exotic marine pests (see Auckland Council Constituent Party Report).

f) Status: In progress.

g) Next steps: Confirm HGF appetite to support the integrated marine biosecurity management approach being developed by Regional Councils including Auckland, Northland and Waikato.

9. RMS Niagara investigation

a) Following our joint letter to the Minister of Transport from the Mayor of Auckland, Chair of Northland Regional Council and HGF Co-Chairs last year, we received a response from Associate Minister Matt Doocey to say that the Maritime NZ estimate of the cost of an investigation was $13.9 million. Minister Doocey declined the opportunity to speak with us and confirmed that an investigation is not a priority for Government.

b) To progress this initiative, I connected with two major philanthropists with an interest in investigating the RMS Niagara to clarify the risk that it poses. One expressed interest in undertaking an investigation, subject to confidentiality.

c) In September, Co-Chair Tangata Whenua Nicola Rata-MacDonald and Ngāti Manuhiri Chair Mook Hohneck met the entity involved.

d) Status: Paused

e) Next steps: Confirm whether investigation of the RMS Niagara remains a priority for the HGF and whether further action is needed to address the risk it poses.

10. Reducing land-based inputs to the Hauraki Gulf

a) The 2024-26 Workplan includes a priority action to establish a taskforce to reduce land-based impacts including sediment and nutrient runoff, sewage, nutrients, plastics and other forms of pollution.

b) Tackling sediment and pollution is a prime opportunity for integrated management to protect and enhance the Gulf. In my view, the HGF could make a significant contribution by developing an integrated action plan to define the problem, identify initiatives currently under way, share best practice and identify potential initiatives for remediation and restoration (e.g. Auckland Council strategic approach to sediment and strategic approach to planting, Matamata-Piako riparian planting, Waikato Region farm plans, lessons from Kaipara Moana).

c) Status: not yet started.

d) Next steps: Confirm the priority of this initiative for the HGF and support for the proposed integrated action planning approach focusing on land-based inputs.

11. High Pathogenicity Avian Influenza (Avian Flu)

a) H5N1 has not yet been detected in New Zealand.

b) Current guidance from MPI is that if you find an unusual number of dead or sick birds (three or more), please call the Biosecurity NZ hotline on 0800 80 99 66. Do not touch/handle the birds.

c) More information is available on MPI’s website (mpi.govt.nz/hpai).

d) As EO, I am connected into Auckland Council’s early preparedness activities through the host relationship.

e) Status: Maintaining watch

f) Next steps: I will keep the HGF updated on any developments.

Opportunities to further advance the HGF’s priorities

12. Opportunities identified to advance HGF priorities through raising awareness:

a) 25 years of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park:

i. I would like to confirm the appetite of the HGF to acknowledge in some way the 25^th anniversary of the HGMP Act, and if so, what form this might take.

ii. We were offered the use of the Viaduct Events Centre on 20 February 2025 during the Moana Festival for a symposium, and whilst this seemed like a timely opportunity, I was unable to secure support for the Forum’s attendance in the timeframe.

iii. Next steps: Confirm if acknowledgement of the 25^th anniversary of the marine park is a priority for the HGF, and if so, what form it might take.

b) Widening the support base of the Hauraki Gulf by amplifying the economic story:

i. The 2023 and 2024 NZIER reports are a platform for a narrative that emphasises the economic value of the Hauraki Gulf, providing further heft to the importance of preserving and enhancing it.

ii. The NZIER assessment states that the Hauraki Gulf has a value of $5.14 billion and that this value is at risk from ongoing deterioration of the environment. The future economic value derived from the Gulf could be seriously compromised either through the loss of export markets; or through the opportunity cost of the potential returns of the blue economy which rests on a healthy ecosystem and clean water; or both.

iii. The quality of the environment is at the heart of New Zealand’s competitive advantage directly and through reputation. A Chapman Tripp/Aotearoa Circle report in 2024 revealed pressure on New Zealand exporters to keep up with international expectations on sustainability with more than 80% of NZ’s exports by value going to countries with mandatory/proposed environmental, social and governance disclosures.

iv. A vital part of the story is creating the conditions for NZ to maximise its potential through a sustainable blue economy to revitalise oceans and create health and wealth through blue carbon, aquaculture, tourism, and recreation. This includes the value to international consumers of sustainably caught fish, restoring the seafloor and kelp forests, in conjunction with marine protection areas, enabling seafloor and fish stocks to recover.

v. For example, Westpac recently released a research paper on the existing and potential contribution of the blue economy to NZ (Attachment F) noting that marine activity contributes at least $10bn in value-add to the New Zealand economy and estimating that this will rise to $14bn by 2035, potentially making a meaningful contribution to the government’s goal of doubling exports.

vi. To this end I have I have met business and innovation leaders from entities including Beca, Westpac, Auckland Business Chamber, and NZ Story to increase awareness of the economic importance of a restored and protected Hauraki Gulf.

vii. Status: In progress

viii. Next steps: EO to continue to progress engagement and advocacy in relation to the economic value of the Hauraki Gulf.

c) Focusing on future generations by supporting engagement with young people

i. Through its requirement to promote integrated management to protect and enhance the Gulf, the HGF has an oblique responsibility to serve as ‘good ancestors’. There is a real opportunity to build on past HGF education initiatives to support public awareness of the importance of the Gulf.

ii. There is an opportunity to support efforts to educate through community engagement focusing on children and young people by aligning efforts with constituent parties and external stakeholders engaged in community outreach and external stakeholders relevant to the Gulf, to identify where the HGF can add value.

iii. Status: concept

iv. Next steps: EO to explore connections and opportunities.

d) Increasing community funding to boost partnerships that serve HGF goals

i. The $25,000 that we disburse to community partners is well-received and delivers tangible outcomes aligned to the priorities of the HGF. Given the cessation of the government’s Jobs for Nature funding, the constrained grant opportunities in the wider environmental system, the return on investment from supporting community-led initiatives and the healthy balance of the HGF accounts, I suggest that we double this to $50,000 p.a.

ii. Status: Under consideration

iii. Next steps: Seeking HGF endorsement to double the HGF’s community funding to $50,000 p.a.

13. Increasing the impact of the Forum: a proposed approach to enhance operational effectiveness

a) My full proposal is outlined in the separate agenda item which follows (Item 11). It suggests:

i. Enhanced participation from constituent parties as two-way conduits between the collective HGF and their individual entities.

ii. A Workplan-focused action approach to advance the integrated management of the top priority issues identified by the HGF.

iii. Clarification of roles and responsibilities, approval flows and delegations.

iv. Status: in development

v. Next steps: endorsement of approach by HGF.

b) There is no formal financial delegation for the Executive Officer, constraining the ability to advance HGF priorities. I recommend $50,000 to expedite operational work.

Reports

14. The financial report for the quarter to December 2024 is attached, showing a robust financial position (Attachment B). Some of the accrued finances are for the 2026 State of the Gulf report, and early discussions are under way with potential contributors. There has been limited expenditure until current and new priorities are agreed and confirmed.

15. The Technical Officers’ Group convened on 10 February 2025 to share updates on each constituent party’s work in relation to the Forum priorities. The meeting note is attached (Attachment C).

16. Attached is the Q4 ship speed report from Port of Auckland (Attachment D). It is encouraging to see that the monthly averages of below 10 knots continue.

17. The HGF made a submission to Fisheries NZ on CRA2 (the rock lobster fishery that includes the Hauraki Gulf and Bay of Plenty), supporting the retention of current catch levels and the closure of the inner Hauraki Gulf including Hauturu to rock lobster fishing (Attachment E).

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) receive the report.

b) receive the Open Letter to Prime Minister (Attachment A), Financial Statement (Attachment B), Technical Officers Meeting Note (Attachment C), Quarterly Ship Speed Report (Attachment D), Submission to Fisheries NZ on CRA2 (Attachment E) and the Westpac Blue Economy bulletin (Attachment F).

c) confirm that the HGF opposes the amendments to the Hauraki Gulf/Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill and calls for the Bill to be passed in the form recommended by the Select Committee and supports ongoing advocacy to this end.

d) confirm support for continuing to advocate for the ending of destructive fishing practices in the Hauraki Gulf.

e) confirm the appetite to support the integrated approach to marine biosecurity management being led by Regional Councils.

f) confirm if the RMS Niagara investigation is a priority for the HGF and whether further action is needed.

g) confirm that promoting integrated action to reduce land-based inputs into the Hauraki Gulf is a priority for the HGF, and support for integrated action planning to advance this outcome.

h) confirm whether the HGF would like to mark the 25^th anniversary of the HGMP Act, and if so in what form.

i) endorse doubling the HGF’s support for community initiatives from $25,000 to $50,000.

j) endorse granting delegated authority of $50,000 to the Executive Officer to expedite HGF priorities.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a ⇩	Open Letter to PM on Marine Protection Bill	129
b ⇩	Financial Report 6 months to 31 December 2024	131
c ⇩	Technical Officers' Group Meeting Note	133
d ⇩	Quarterly ship speed report	137
e ⇩	Fisheries NZ Submission on CRA2	139
f ⇩	Westpac Blue Economy bulletin	141

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Author	Lucy Baragwanath - Executive Officer Hauraki Gulf Forum
Authoriser	Sam Hill - General Manager Environmental Services

Hauraki Gulf Forum

03 March 2025

Proposal to enhance the contribution of the Hauraki Gulf Forum through integrated action planning

File No.: CP2025/00207

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To share with the Hauraki Gulf Forum (HGF) a proposal to enhance its contribution through integrated action planning.

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

2. During my first six months as EO (with responsibility to manage all aspects of the HGF’s strategy and operations including policy, comms, engagement and finance), I have observed the HGF has consolidated its reputation as a trusted advocate for the Gulf. Building on this reputation, in my view the HGF’s contribution could be further advanced by adopting an integrated action planning approach that would promote the integrated management to protect and enhance the Gulf required under the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act 2000.

3. The HGF was established in recognition of the complexity of interrelationships that need to be managed ‘in a manner that crosses territorial jurisdictions, crosses land and water boundaries, and crosses cultures and that respects both conservation and development needs’ (Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act 2000 Preamble (7)).

4. The constituent parties of the HGF collectively hold most of the legislative authority, responsibility, and tools to address the Hauraki Gulf’s challenges, most of which have multiple inputs and transcend the power of individual parties to tackle them alone. Consequently, the Act emphasised the need to promote integrated management for issues that transcend the mandate and capacity of the individual parties.

5. The Forum provides the platform for collaboration to align efforts: to exchange ideas, identify shared challenges, and enable integrated management and alignment. The notion of a forum implies a two-way flow of information, views and ideas from the constituent parties inward to the HGF, and outward from the HGF to the constituent parties.

Evolving practices

6. The HGF has used its profile and influence to successfully advocate for specific issues through direct connection and submissions. This has established the HGF’s profile as a trusted advocate for the Gulf.

7. The Act specifies that the Forum must prepare a list of strategic issues, determine a priority for those, and receive reports from constituent parties on the development and implementation of policies and plans to address those issues, and to facilitate and encourage integrated financial planning.

8. Consequently, the Forum’s strategic priorities are clearly articulated in the 2024-6 Workplan, and the 26 August 2024 meeting confirmed the five priority issues for immediate focus (see EO report).

9. Likewise, regular constituent party reports are received from the Department of Conservation and Fisheries New Zealand on the progress towards Revitalising the Gulf as the Crown’s contribution towards the integrated management to protect and enhance the Gulf.

10. Other constituent parties provide reports from time to time, and significant collaboration occurs in the background between many of the parties, which is not formally reported.

11. In my view, there is more we could do to advance the statutory requirement to integrate the development and implementation of policies and plans to address the priority issues faced by the Gulf.

12. Building on the existing collaboration between constituent parties, the Act enables the HGF to share problems and solutions, identify points of commonality, and develop practical action plans that enable them to be tackled, integrating management to protect and enhance the Gulf.

13. The formal committee-style governance structure in effect can restrict the opportunity for deep collaboration, as the style of interaction and the limited number of times that the Forum meets constrains opportunities for discussion, problem identification, and initiatives under way. This in turn limits the integration of management to protect and enhance the Gulf.

Workplan-driven integrated action planning

14. The HGF’s contribution could be further advanced by introducing an integrated action planning approach driven by the Workplan.

15. I propose the following approach for discussion and consideration:

a. Recognise the HGF as a gathering of ‘good ancestors’ with the authority, tools and shared commitment to enhance and protect the Gulf through aligning efforts to integrate its management.

b. Encourage every constituent party to contribute to the quarterly agendas to ensure issues are well understood and canvassed from every perspective.

c. Encourage members of the HGF to see their role as two-way conduits between their entities and the collective, providing the foundation for effective alignment through clear communication.

d. Use the adopted 2024-2026 Workplan as the framework to drive integrated action planning. For each priority area:

i. Convene a working group comprising representatives of the relevant entities, their authority, tools, and points of influence, and expert external stakeholders as appropriate.

ii. Define the problem.

iii. Identify champions within each entity who commit to advocating for support within each of their entities.

iv. Co-develop action plans to integrate action and align of initiatives that protect and enhance the Gulf, including identifying gaps where research and advocacy are required.

v. Bring these back for endorsement by the HGF.

vi. From this point, individual constituent parties would take responsibility for the formal decision-making for implementation, as appropriate.

vii. Formally track progress through integrated monitoring and reporting, which could sit alongside the State of the Gulf reporting, thereby linking problems, proposed solutions, and actions.

viii. This model was successfully prototyped for the Greater Christchurch Partnership in 2023, providing some useful insights (Attachment A).

16. In 2026 the next State of the Gulf report is due. Early discussions are under way about how this might be approached. In addition to reporting against baseline indicators, the addition of reporting on integrated action plans could create a cohesive, systemic narrative linking problems, outcomes, actions, and areas for improvement. It is critical that this approach aligns with existing monitoring undertaken by constituent parties, and the monitoring framework being developed by DOC, with reference to improvements to environmental reporting being undertaken by the Ministry for the Environment^{^[5]}.

17. Prerequisites for success:

i. Building trust and openness to foster honest exchanges and identify common ground.

ii. Deep collaboration through active listening and problem-solving across diverse perspectives to identify opportunities for alignment.

iii. Commitment to collective action that integrates and aligns efforts on strategic challenges facing the Gulf that require multi-party collaboration.

18. In my view, building on the HGF’s advocacy and reputation through this integrated action planning approach would enable further significant, meaningful progress towards the protection and enhancement of the Gulf.

19. Status: for consideration by the HGF.

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) consider and discuss adopting the proposed workplan-driven action planning approach to enhance the operational effectiveness of the Forum

b) endorse the proposal to amend the State of the Gulf reporting to include both progress against indicators and progress against active initiatives.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a ⇩	Greater Christchurch Partnership Joint Housing Action Plan - insights for integrated action planning	165

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Author	Lucy Baragwanath - Executive Officer Hauraki Gulf Forum
Authoriser	Sam Hill - General Manager Environmental Services