Agenda of Hauraki Gulf Forum - Monday, 19 May 2025

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

Date:

Time:

Meeting Room:

Venue:

Monday, 19 May 2025

1.00pm

Reception Lounge
Level 2, Auckland Town Hall
301 Queen Street
Auckland

Hauraki Gulf Forum

OPEN AGENDA

MEMBERSHIP

Co-chairperson	Cr Warren Maher	Waikato Regional Council
Co-chairperson Tangata Whenua	Ms Nicola Rata-MacDonald, MNZM	Tangata Whenua
Members	Mayor Toby Adams	Hauraki District Council
	Ms Charmaine Bailie	Tangata Whenua
	Mr Joe Davis	Tangata Whenua
	Cr Christine Fletcher, QSO	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
	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

8 May 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) whakaū / confirm the ordinary minutes of its meeting, held on Monday, 3 March 2025, as a true and correct record.

4 Public Forum

4.1 Public Forum - Kekeno / Fur Seal Mortalities Report - 2024

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. Shaun Lee will present to the forum on the Kekeno / Fur Seal Mortalities Report – 2024 which is Attachment C to the Executive Officers’ Report.

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) thank Shaun Lee for his presentation on the Kekeno / Fur Seal Mortalities Report – 2024.

4.2 Public Forum - Tau Ngaruhe – Ngāti Pāoa Kaitiaki

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. Tau Ngaruhe will present to the forum on the following matters:

· Te Rakau e nga Maramarua, - Updating Maramarua natives

· Ko te Mahi o te tiaki tuna

· An introduction to Capacity building kaitiaki via the Larseair Program Called: MANA O TE KAITIAKI

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) thank Tau Ngaruhe for his presentation.

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

19 May 2025

Co-Chairpersons' Report

File No.: CP2025/04340

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To provide a report from the Co-Chairpersons of the Hauraki Gulf Forum (HGF).

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

2. The year marks 25 years since the establishment of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park and, with it, the formation of the Hauraki Gulf Forum. We will take a moment to acknowledge this significant milestone at our upcoming Forum meeting.

3. We formally acknowledge and thank current and past Forum members for their service and dedication to the Gulf. We mihi to our Tangata Whenua members, whose sustained presence and guidance reflect deep whakapapa ties, enduring kaitiaki responsibilities, and a profound commitment to the mauri of Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi.

4. We also recognise Sandra Lee, who as Minister of Conservation at the time, was instrumental in ushering in the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act. We acknowledge the leadership of former Chairs including Laly Haddon, John Tregidga, Liane Ngamane, John Meeuwsen, Moana Tamaariki-Pohe, and Pippa Coom, as well as the contributions of our former Executive Officers Tim Higham, Alex Rogers and Lucy Baragwanath.

5. Over the past 25 years, public awareness and visibility of the issues facing the Hauraki Gulf have grown markedly. While we are not yet on a full path to recovery and many pressures remain complex and persistent – especially as climate change accelerates – there have been many successes worth recognising. The Forum’s role in advocacy and raising the profile of the Gulf should be both acknowledged and commended.

6. We offer our sincere thanks to our current Forum members for their continued commitment.

7. At the time of writing, we await the final reading of the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill. We continue to advocate for the passage of the Bill in the form recommended by the Select Committee and look forward to celebrating this milestone with Forum members and Gulf communities. We remain in close contact with the Department of Conservation on the Bill's progress.

Executive support

8. Since our last hui, we received Dr Lucy Baragwanath’s resignation. Lucy finished on 4 April and has moved to the role of Science Group Manager – Restoring Ecosystems and Manaaki Whenua Landcare Research.

9. With Lucy’s departure, we have worked with Samantha Hill (General Manager Environmental Services) at Auckland Council to establish interim arrangements to maintain Forum operations while we work towards a permanent appointment.

10. Our immediate priorities include the successful delivery of the May and August Forum meetings, preparation of the Annual Report, coordination of the 2026 State of the Gulf Report, and continuing our public relations and communications work.

11. To help coordinate these efforts, we have engaged Katina Conomos, who has previously served as Interim Executive Officer on two occasions, to support the Forum in a part-time capacity. Katina brings a deep understanding of the Forum’s work programme, governance, and strategic context, and will act as the primary liaison between the Co-Chairs, Forum members, and Technical Officers.

12. We have also asked member agencies to contribute additional support, particularly through the Forum’s Technical Officers. We thank Joao Paulo Silva from Waikato Regional Council for agreeing to support the delivery of the May and August Forum meetings. We also acknowledge the support being made available by Ngāti Manuhiri Settlement Trust Tangata Whenua technical advisors, Ataria MacDonald and Delma O’Kane, to assist the Acting EO and interim team.

13. We extend our appreciation to Samantha Hill for her work in helping establish interim arrangements and acknowledge the consistent support of our Governance Advisor, Mike Giddey.

14. We are confident this interim support model will ensure continuity of operations while providing time to consider a long-term staffing solution.

15. In the coming months, we will oversee two foundational pieces of work: a review of the Forum’s Governance Statement and the Service Level Agreement with Auckland Council, which will be brought forward to the Forum’s next meeting in June. These will be essential to strengthening future executive support.

Fisheries Reform and Marine Biosecurity

16. We acknowledge the recent decision regarding CRA2 (spiny rock lobster), which represents a positive step toward more sustainable fisheries management in the Gulf. We welcome this as a signal of the direction we hope to see reflected more broadly in future fisheries policy.

17. The Forum was invited to submit feedback on the Government’s proposed fisheries reforms. In our submission, we expressed concern that some proposed changes may weaken sustainability safeguards and accountability. We advocated for a precautionary, science-based approach that upholds Te Tiriti o Waitangi and supports the ecological integrity of Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi. (Refer to Attachment A).

18. We remain concerned about the limited progress in tackling the spread of exotic caulerpa. We await Budget 2025 to to understand the Government’s commitment to marine biosecurity investment, particularly in response to this growing threat. We also await outcomes from recent removal trials.

19. Addressing these challenges will require collective resolve. Every member of the Forum, partner agency, and Gulf community has a role to play in protecting and restoring the mauri of Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui-ā-Toi.

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) receive the report.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a ⇩	Submission on Fisheries Reform and Marine Biosecurity	15

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Authors

Nicola Rata-MacDonald, MNZM and Cr Warren Maher

Hauraki Gulf Forum

19 May 2025

Overview of resource management reforms

File No.: CP2025/08703

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To provide an overview of the government’s national direction programme and Phase Three resource management reforms.

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

2. The government is part way through a programme of comprehensive reform of the resource management system. Phase Two is underway and includes the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill, which is currently before the Environment Select Committee. Phase Two included changes to national direction. The government has refocused its national direction programme. Further consultation on the refocused package of changes to national direction is expected in mid-2025.

3. The government has also announced further details of the new legislation that will be introduced to replace the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). Phase Three is expected to significantly alter the planning framework by replacing the RMA with two new bills, based on “the enjoyment of property rights”.

4. In September 2024, the government established an Expert Advisory Group (EAG), which developed a blueprint for reform based on ten principles set by the government.

5. Cabinet has now agreed that the EAG Blueprint delivers a workable basis for a new planning system and has made in-principle decisions on a range of new features for the system. These include two new acts:

· the Planning Act will be focused on regulating the use, development and enjoyment of land

· the Natural Environment Act will be focused on the use, protection and enhancement of the natural environment.

6. The EAG’s recommendations represent a significant shift in planning and environmental management decision-making at the national level. The new legislation will narrow the scope of the resource management system and the effects it controls. It signals a more permissive approach, which is intended to unlock development, streamline processes and meet the government’s economic growth, housing, infrastructure, primary industries, environment and climate change objectives.

7. Under the new resource management system, Auckland Council would as a unitary authority:

a) continue to be the primary decision-maker developing the spatial plan, the natural environment plan and combined regulatory plan, drawing on the views of local communities

b) have a reduced role in policy and plan development because of the increased use of national policy direction, national standards, nationally standardised land use zones and nationally set environmental limits

c) remain the primary regulator, albeit within a set of nationally developed tools.

8. The reduction in the number of consents required is expected to reduce consenting workloads. Councils may have a reduced role in compliance, monitoring and enforcement as responsibility is transferred to a national compliance and enforcement regulator in the long term.

9. The bills are expected to be introduced in late 2025, with consultation through the select committee process. The new bills are expected to be enacted mid-2026.

Horopaki

Context

10. The government is part way through a programme of comprehensive reform of the resource management system. Phase One (which involved repeal of the Natural and Built Environment Act 2023 and the Spatial Planning Act 2023) is complete. Phase Two is underway and includes the Resource Management (Consenting and Other System Changes) Amendment Bill. The bill is currently before the Environment Select Committee, which is due to report back to Parliament on 17 June 2025. Further consultation on a package of changes to national direction was also expected as part of Phase Two.

Phase Two: National direction

11. The Phase Two national direction programme included amendments to 14 existing instruments and the development of seven new instruments, many with substantial implementation requirements for local government through RMA plans. Since then, the government has decided to refocus the programme to deliver on the government’s priorities while minimising disruption to the resource management system.

12. Cabinet reconfirmed the scope of Phase Two national direction proposals on 24 March 2025. These proposals are intended to have immediate effect under the RMA, while the new resource management system is developed and implemented.

13. Subject to further Cabinet decisions, the government will consult on targeted changes to national direction in mid-2025, with a view to them being in place by the end of the year (Attachment 1). The policy intent of the refocused Phase Two proposals is intended to flow through into the new resource management system.

14. The Minister recently announced Pillar One of the Going for Housing Growth programme, which aims to free up land for development and remove unnecessary planning barriers. The Minister recognises that if implemented straight away, councils would be forced to conduct expensive and lengthy plan changes, only to start all over again a year later once the new legislation comes into effect. The Minister has therefore decided that the changes will be implemented as part of the replacement legislation. This means that the proposed growth targets will be considered in the context of nationally standardised land use zones (NSZ) and spatial planning. An urban development and housing policy package will be consulted on in May 2025, including how it will transition into Phase Three.

15. Consultation on other Phase Two national direction proposals is expected subsequently.

Phase Three: Replacement of the RMA

16. The government announced further details of the new legislation to replace the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA). Phase Three is expected to significantly alter the planning framework by replacing the RMA with two new bills, based on “the enjoyment of property rights”.

17. Last August, the government agreed ten design principles to guide reform. The government appointed an Expert Advisory Group (EAG) in September 2024 to test and refine the principles and develop a blueprint for replacing the RMA. The government released the EAG report on 24 March 2025, which can be found here: Report from the Expert Advisory Group on Resource Management Reform | Ministry for the Environment. The report provides further detail on the proposed reform and transition arrangements.

18. The government has endorsed the EAG’s recommendation to introduce two new Acts:

· a Planning Act to establish a framework for planning and regulating the use, development and enjoyment of land. The Act will enable urban development and infrastructure (including renewable energy) and cover natural hazard management.

· a Natural Environment Act (NEA) to establish a framework for the use, protection and enhancement the natural environment. The NEA will address impacts on freshwater, indigenous biodiversity, landscapes, and the relationship of Māori and their culture with natural resources.

19. The EAG recommended that each Act contain national goals setting out the main objectives of the regulatory framework, to provide a basis for monitoring implementation. Decisions on the value of including goals and decision-making principles will be made under delegation to the Minister. Figure 1 sets out the main mechanisms for decision-making under the Planning Act and NEA.

Figure 1. Main mechanisms for decision making under the Planning Act and NEA

20. The EAG’s recommendations represent a significant shift of planning and environmental management decision-making to the national level. The new legislation will narrow the scope of the resource management system and the effects it controls. It represents a shift from a precautionary to a more permissive approach, which is intended to unlock development, streamline processes and meet the government’s objectives.

21. As a unitary authority, Auckland Council would continue to be the primary decision-maker in developing a spatial plan, a natural environment plan and a combined regulatory plan, drawing on the views of local communities. Councils would remain the primary regulator, albeit within a set of nationally developed tools. Local authorities are expected to work with neighbouring councils when developing regional spatial plans.

22. The proposals are subject to further detailed policy work before they are developed into legislation. The bills are expected to be introduced in late 2025 and enacted mid-2026.

Discussion

23. The government has signalled a significant change to the planning system on the basis that the current resource management system is not fit for purpose. It is widely held that the current system is not delivering the best outcomes for communities or the environment and is too complex and costly to navigate. The EAG report recommendations represent a fundamental shift towards greater regulatory restraint, efficiency and consistency, with fewer bespoke rules and more reliance on national standards, spatial planning, and outcome-based tools. It also represents a shift in the system towards greater standardisation at the national level.

24. Phase Three is expected to significantly alter the planning framework by replacing the RMA with two new bills. The government has stated that this means that “the resource management system should allow people to do more on their own property more easily, so long as it doesn’t harm others.” Where an activity is harming others, the resource management system should step in to protect property owners’ rights from being compromised by unreasonable activities. The changes are intended to deliver a more enabling resource management system with more certainty, fewer consents that are approved faster, and that is less litigious.

25. The EAG recommendations raise several implications for councils’ work programmes. The government states that the proposals are not intended to change the existing core resource management roles of councils, but rather how these roles are performed. However, proposals to remove matters such as historic heritage from the legislation and the establishment of a new national compliance and enforcement regulator would impact council delivery of these functions.

26. The government has also made it clear that significant changes to existing plans will be required. Councils would be expected to implement Phase Three through the development of new plans, from mid-2027 to inform councils’ 2027 Long-term Plan (LTP) cycle. It should be noted that it is unlikely that the new plans would be in place to inform the 2027 LTP, which is adopted in June 2027.

27. As a unitary council, Auckland Council would retain most of its current ‘regional’ and ‘territorial’ authority plan-making and consenting functions for natural resource management and for managing land use and environmental effects under the RMA. Regional and unitary councils would retain responsibility for setting limits for coastal water and there are potential opportunities to cover Coastal Management Area (CMA) issues in Natural Environment Plans and Regional Spatial Plans.

28. The EAG recommended reducing the extent of the CMA managed by councils (in the order of three nautical miles), with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) responsible for planning and consenting beyond that. However, Cabinet recommended retaining the existing geographical extent of the CMA. The EAG also recommended that the role of the Minister of Conservation for matters relating to the management of the coastal environment be transferred to the Minister for the Environment although Cabinet has yet to decide on this.

29. Councils would have a reduced role in policy and plan development because of the increased use of national policy direction, nationally standardised zones, national environmental standards and nationally determined environmental limits.

30. In the case of Auckland Council, it would lead development and retain decision-making on the regional spatial plan, the natural environment plan, and the combined district plan, albeit within a set of nationally developed tools.

31. The reduction in number of consents required is expected to reduce consenting workloads. Councils may also have a reduced role in compliance, monitoring and enforcement.

Ngā koringa ā-muri

Next steps

32. Government officials will undertake targeted engagement with local government as key implementers of the new system, as well as practitioners and infrastructure, development and other interests. Officials will also work with the relevant Post Settlement Governance Entities (PSGEs) and other relevant groups to ensure any impacts on Treaty settlements and other arrangements, including in relation to the marine and coastal area, are addressed appropriately.

33. The Minister for Housing and Resource Management Reform intends to begin canvassing the government’s refocused national direction programme in May 2025 (Attachment A). The Minister will similarly be considering how the urban development and housing package will transition into Phase Three, with a view to new direction being in place by the end of the year. Consultation on all other Phase Two national direction proposals is expected a little later in 2025. This includes targeted amendments to the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement and the Natural Environmental Standard for Marine Aquaculture.

34. Legislation is expected to be introduced to Parliament later this year and be passed into law by mid-2026. Public consultation on the proposals will occur primarily through the select committee process.

35. The proposed Phase Three changes are expected to be implemented in 2027, and with as little disruption to users of the resource management system as possible. Important elements of the existing system (e.g. plans, national direction, etc.) will transition into the new system, with a “switching off” of elements incompatible with the new system.

36. Subject matter experts across councils will consider the proposals in detail and will present advice for their respective elected members’ consideration in due course.

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) receive the overview of the current resource management reforms provided by Auckland Council Policy staff.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a ⇩	The government's refocused resource management national direction programme	23

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Authors

Dave Allen - Manager Natural Environment Strategy

Karryn Kirk - Principal Strategic Advisor

Authoriser

Samantha Hill - General Manager Environmental Services

No.	Title	Page
a ⇩	DOC and FNZ constituent party report 19 May 2025	27

Hauraki Gulf Forum

19 May 2025

Executive Officer Report

File No.: CP2025/04338

Te take mō te pūrongo

Purpose of the report

1. To update Forum members on the status of current workstreams and activities.

2. This report has been prepared by Katina Conomos and Joao Paulo Silva, who are currently partially fulfilling the functions of the Forum’s Executive Officer during the interim period. We are honored to support the Forum during this time.

Whakarāpopototanga matua

Executive summary

Activities and correspondence since the last report

3. Whale Transit Protocol Breach: On 13 February 2025, the vessel ASUKA II transited through the whale protocol area at a speed of 15.3 knots at approximately 6:37 AM, exceeding the voluntary speed limit designed to reduce the risk of ship strikes on whales. Port of Auckland Limited (POAL) advised the shipping line of the breach and notified the Forum on 11 March 2025. (Refer Attachment A).

4. Fisheries Reform Submission: The Forum was invited to submit feedback on the Fisheries Reform. A submission was prepared in collaboration with the Co-Chairs and submitted on 22 April. (Refer to Co-Chairs report)

5. New Marine Species Detection: On 1 May, Biosecurity New Zealand confirmed the detection of Acetes sibogae australis, a tropical shrimp species not previously recorded in Aotearoa, found in Ōkahu Bay, Waitematā. While the species appears locally established, its ability to persist over winter is uncertain. The current biosecurity risk is considered low. (Refer Attachment B).

6. Central Wharves Masterplan: Eke Panuku has informed the Forum that Auckland Council is progressing the development of a Central Wharves Masterplan to guide future use of the downtown waterfront. Developed in partnership with Mana Whenua, the project aims to improve the health and mauri of Te Waitematā, revitalise the wharves, separate cruise and ferry operations, and celebrate the cultural and ecological values of the area. More information is available at: https://www.ekepanuku.co.nz/projects/central-wharves/

7. A report from Shaun Lee has been received detailing beach cast kekeno (fur seal) mortalities, including updated data for 2024. (Refer Attachment C)

8. Forest & Bird with TNZ has released Endangered Species Aotearoa Season 2. Episode 1 focuses on endangered species in the Hauraki Gulf and features an interview with Member Ranson, in her role as Forest & Bird’s Hauraki Gulf Coordinator. We commend this series to members if you haven’t yet had the opportunity to view it. https://www.forestandbird.org.nz/endangered-species-aotearoa/

Community Funding Grants

9. To date, $18,148 has been allocated from the Forum’s $50,000 Community Grants Fund to the following projects: Southern Seabirds Trust for Seabird Smart Fishing ($10,000), Northern NZ Seabird Trust for seabird poster reprinting ($6,648), and Mountains to Sea for Fish of the Year Competition ($1,500).

10. Remaining available funds: $31,852.

11. A new funding application has been received from the Waiheke Marine Project to support a Kōura (crayfish) Dive Survey. It is recommended that the Forum approve a grant of $9,500 for this initiative. (Refer Attachment D).

12. Following a suggestion from Co-Chair MacDonald, we have approached the New Zealand Marine Sciences Society to explore sponsoring two $5,000 research grants, focused on research relevant to the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana / Te Moananui ā Toi, in recognition of the 25th anniversary of the Marine Park. Discussions with NZMSS about the details of the potential arrangement are underway.

13. Forum members are encouraged to continue promoting the Fund and to suggest projects aligned with the Forum’s vision for a thriving Hauraki Gulf. Suggestions can be directed to Katina Conomos.

Current priorities and statutory workstreams

14. Marine Protection Bill: Preparations are underway for the anticipated passage of the Hauraki Gulf / Tīkapa Moana Marine Protection Bill. A media statement is in development and will align with the Forum’s previously stated advocacy position.

15. RM Reform: At the Technical Officers' meeting on 29 April, staff felt that an overview of Resource Management legislative reforms could be provided to Forum members for information purposes. Auckland Council’s Dave Allen has kindly agreed to present on this at the next Forum meeting. Summary notes from the Technical Officers meeting are attached (Refer Attachment E).

16. 2026 State of the Gulf Report: Planning has commenced for the next State of the Gulf report, starting with a scoping process involving the Forum’s Technical Officers. Given its release will follow the anticipated passage of the Marine Protection Bill and precede the 2026 general election, the report will be of significant strategic importance.

17. 2024 Annual Report: The Forum’s Annual Report must be tabled in Parliament by the Minister of Conservation by the end of August, in accordance with statutory requirements. Work has commenced and a draft will be brought to the next Forum meeting for consideration.

Upcoming events:

18. Foil4TheGulf – 24 May 2025: Hosted by the Black Foils in partnership with Live Ocean, this is expected to be the largest foiling event in the Southern Hemisphere with over 200 participants. Held at Royal Akarana, the event will include advocacy for the Marine Protection Bill through a communications campaign led by Live Ocean. Further details: https://liveocean.org/foil4thegulf/

19. The next Gulf Islands Trust hui will be held on 29 May 2025 at the Outboard Boating Club in Auckland, and will feature guest speaker Dr Matt Pinkerton, NIWA Principal Scientist for Marine Ecology, speaking on the topic of ocean warming.

20. Waiheke Marine Project, 5th Annual Kōura/crayfish Survey will be held over 4 weekends between late May and June 2025. Further details: https://www.waihekemarineproject.org/events/koura-crayfish-survey-2-zw7pa-3tth5-93e53

21. The Manukau Harbour Symposium will take place Saturday, 31 May 2025. Details here: https://ourauckland.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/news/2025/04/knowledge-sharing-and-practical-solutions-to-feature-at-love-our-harbour-manukau-harbour-symposiumf/

Ngā tūtohunga

Recommendation/s

That the Hauraki Gulf Forum:

a) receive the report

b) note the breach of the ship speed protocol and subsequent action by Port of Auckland Limited

c) approve the grant of $9,500 to the Waiheke Marine Project to support the Koura Dive Survey.

Ngā tāpirihanga

Attachments

No.	Title	Page
a ⇩	Breach of whale protocol ship speed	35
b ⇩	Advice from Biosecurity New Zealand re Acetes sibogae australis	37
c ⇩	Beach cast Kekeno report	39
d ⇩	Request from Waiheke Marine Project to support Koura Dive Survey	41
e ⇩	Technical Officers summary notes - 29 April 2025	45

Ngā kaihaina

Signatories

Authors

Joao Paulo (JP) Silva, Senior Policy Advisor, Waikato Regional Council

Katina Conomos, Programme Director, Revive Our Gulf

Authoriser

Samantha Hill - General Manager Environmental Services