Tag: Annual budget

Councillor monthly report April 2022

My Councillor report covers the period from 8 March to 5 April.  It has been prepared for the April business meetings of the Waitematā, Waiheke and Aotea Great Barrier Local Boards.

The purpose of my report is to detail my main activities and to share information with the public and local boards in my ward regarding governing body decisions, my attendance at events, regional consultations, media updates and key issues.

Positions  

  • At Wynyard Quarter with the Cr Richard Hills doing a final shout out to give feedback on the Annual budget

    Deputy Chair, Environment and Climate Change Committee (photo right with the Chair Richard Hills doing a final shout out to give feedback on the Annual budget)

  • Co-Chair, Hauraki Gulf Forum
  • Member, Auckland City Centre Advisory Board (ACCAB)
  • Board Member, LGNZ National Council and Auckland Zone co-chair
  • Member, Auckland Domain Committee
  • Member, Appointments and Performance Review Committee
  • Member, Joint Governance Working Party
  • Member, Climate Political Reference Group
  • Member, Waste Political Advisory Group
  • Member, Future Development Strategy steering group (new this year)

Summary

  • Public consultation on the Annual Budget 2022/23 closed on 28 March.
    • As part of the consultation process council held several webinars on Waste and Climate where I was a panel member.
    • I attended the Pasifika Fono, an online forum for Pasifika community members to give feedback.
    • I also attended presentations by regional stakeholders.

Planning Committee

  • Helicopter activity – Resolutions from the Aotea/ Great Barrier, Waiheke and Waitematā and Local Boards.
  • The report due to go to the Planning Committee 30/03 has been deferred until May.
  • Cr Darby and I requested that a Helicopter Practice Note regarding the relevant provisions and considerations of the Auckland Unitary Plan and the Hauraki Gulf Islands be developed by the Resource Consents team.
  • Auckland Transport’s parking strategy was endorsed to go out for consultation (Good for Auckland parking: my speaking notes in support).
  • NPS-UD – The committee endorsed public consultation on the pre-notification engagement. The timeline is to be confirmed.

Environment and Climate Change Committee

  • The committee adopted a new Water Strategy for Auckland. The vision of the strategy is “te mauri o te wai o Tāmaki Makaurau, the life-sustaining capacity of Auckland’s water, is protected and enhanced”.
    • The strategy is designed to guide the council group in relation to its responsibilities and aspirations for water over the next 30 years.
  • The meeting was also an opportunity to acknowledge the death of young bike rider Levi James and to have, a heartfelt discussion that brought home the costs of delaying “genuine streets for people” ( Our Auckland: Auckland Council launches Ngā Tiriti Ngangahau – The Vibrant Streets Programme).
  • Half price public transport fares started on 1 April for three months. However, unfortunately the price cut excludes the Waiheke ferries because the route is not a contracted service within PTOM.  I am supporting the local board in the on-going fight to bring Waiheke in line with PT fares across Auckland.

On-line meetings continue including the Waiheke Community Forum, Local Board meetings and all workshops and committee meetings.

City Centre Safety

Safety in the city centre is an on-going concern.  I attended a Friday night “walkabout” with new Acting Area Commander and the Mayor with Cr Darby of some of the hot spots (more details below)

LGNZ

I attended as a member of LGNZ’s National Council, the Local Government/Central Government Forum Plenary Session on 1 April chaired by the PM.  The theme for this year’s forum was Working together in a time of major change.

The Auckland Arts Festival

The festival went ahead with a limited programme due to current covid restrictions. I was fortunate to see Live Cinema: The Little Shop of Horrors – Lockdown edition online at the invite of the festival.

City Centre Resilience

The resilience of the city centre has faced one of its toughest tests in recent years due to COVID-19, and efforts are being made by many organisations including Heart of the City, Britomart, Auckland Arts Festival, NZ Fashion Museum, Auckland Council and city centre businesses to bring back its mojo. (Our Auckland: City centre dresses up for fashion shoot)

Myers Park

Work will begin in April to update the Myers Park underpass  This project has been a decade in the making so I’m very excited to see it go ahead.

Hauraki Gulf Forum

The Hauraki Gulf Forum submitted in favour of a complete closure of the Hauraki Gulf’s scallop fishery. We also want to see scallop dredging gone for good.  The Minister’s decision on 29 March to close the scallop fisheries is a big step forward but concerningly still leaves open two areas of the Gulf to commercial and recreational dredging. (Press release: Partial closure of Hauraki Gulf scallop fishery puts Hauturu/Little Barrier at risk)

Key decisions from the Committees of the Whole 

The minutes for all meetings are available on the Auckland Council website. The following is intended as a summary only of key decisions.

Environment and Climate Change Committee – 10/03/22

  • adopted the Auckland Water Strategy
  • approved the “Too Much Water – A statement of Auckland Council’s current role and direction” as an accurate representation of council’s current response to the water-related impacts of climate change
  • approved the Whangaparāoa Pilot Shoreline Adaptation Plan
  • endorsed the proposed Regional Streets for People projects for management and delivery by Auckland Transport, on behalf of Auckland Council. (Now named Ngā Tiriti Ngangahau – The Vibrant Streets Programme see Attachment 1)
  • approved the Auckland Council submission to the Department of Conservation on the proposed Hākaimangō-Matiatia marine reserve application, northwest Waiheke Island (subject to minor editorial changes)
  • approved the forward work programme as agreed to at the meeting, to October 2022 including a new item added at my request to develop berm planting guidelines.

Finance and Performance Committee – 17/03/22

  • received a presentation from Eden Park Trust Board
  • confirmed the 16 July 2020 approval to dispose of 4 Blomfield Spa, Takapuna as it is not required to be retained by council for open space or recreational purposes
  • received the Auckland Council Group and Auckland Council quarterly performance reports for the six months ended 31 December 2021, noting that the results for the six months ended 31 December 2021, confirm many of the pressures anticipated in our Recovery Budget.

Council Controlled Organisation Oversight Committee – 22/03/22

  • received the 2021/2022 second quarter reports of the substantive Council-controlled Organisations and Ports of Auckland Limited
  • approved an amendment to the Watercare Services Limited constitution to remove the restriction on directors serving more than three consecutive terms
  • received update on the implementation programme for the Council-controlled Organisations Review
  • agreed to receive a verbal update in relation to the Auckland Unlimited report: Reimagining Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland: harnessing the region’s potential
  • Considered the agenda item “Defining Auckland Council’s Ownership Objectives for the Ports of Auckland Limited” as confidential due to risks that publicising it may prejudice or disadvantage council’s commercial activities

Governing Body – 24/03/22

  • On behalf of council Fa’anana Efeso Collins and I received the Save our Sands petition

    Accepted a petition from Jessie Stanley relating to Sand Mining from the Pakiri and Mangawhai Embayment

  • unanimously supported the Notice of Motion of Councillor Josephine Bartley to support the proposed private members’ bill: Sale and Supply of Alcohol (Harm Minimisation) Amendment Bill
  • Governing Body meeting during the presentation by MP Chlöe Swarbrick in support of Cr Bartley’s Notice of Motion Notice of Motion of Councillor to support the proposed private members’ bill

    Agreed to timeline for consultation on Māori representation in local government, noting that feedback from the engagement with mana whenua and mataawaka, will be reported to the August 2022 meeting of the Governing Body.

 Planning Committee – 31/03/22

  • endorsed the Draft Auckland Parking Strategy 2022 for public consultation in April 2022
  • Made a series of decision in response to the government’s National Policy Station Urban Development (NPS-UD) including:
    1. endorsed the further investigation of changes to the Auckland Unitary Plan and the Auckland District Plan (Hauraki Gulf Islands Section) to address issues arising from the mandatory removal of parking minimum
    2. endorsed the further investigation of changes to the Auckland Unitary Plan to:
    3. i)           introduce planning provisions for residential private ways to achieve better quality outcomes
    4. ii)         amend the zone provisions to:
  • enable building heights of least six storeys in walkable catchments as required by the Policy 3(c) of the National Policy Statement on Urban Development
  • incorporate the Medium Density Residential Standards in the relevant residential zones, as required by the Resource Management (Enabling Housing Supply and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2021
  • provide for quality-built environment outcomes in residential areas of Auckland as discussed in the agenda report.
  • approved the following policy direction for implementing Policy 3(a) in the NPS-UD relating to the city centre:
  • i)       Fewer, simpler, more targeted controls
  • ii)      Protecting sunlight and daylight to open spaces
  • iii)     Protecting amenity and retaining the “human scale” of streets
  • iv)     Enabling tall slender towers with space between them to allow sunlight, daylight and views to permeate the city centre
  • v)      Protecting local and regionally significant views
  • vi)     Protecting the outcomes achieved by the existing city centre precincts
  • vii)    Protecting the relationship between the city centre and the Waitemata Harbour
  • viii)   Protecting historic heritage in the city centre
  • ix)     Promoting climate change resilience.
  • approved in principle the removal of the general building height and floor area ratio standards in the city centre, and the application of alternative built form standards in line with the principles set out above.
  • endorsed “Thriving Town Centres – Guidance for urban regeneration in Tāmaki Makaurau / Auckland” (Attachment A of the agenda report) as a guidance document for Eke Panuku.
  • In confidential the Committee endorsed the Auckland Council’s preliminary response to the NPS UD for pre-notification engagement. The timeframe for this engagement is not yet confirmed.

Note: After 11 hours the committee was closed with agreement to defer the Auckland Cycling and Micro mobility Programme Business Case and the report responding to resolutions from the Aotea/Great Barrier, Waiheke and Waitematā Local Boards regarding concerns about helicopter activity to the next Planning Committee meeting

City Centre Safety

The visibility of crime and anti-social behaviour and the perception of safety are ongoing issues in the city centre brought about by several factors including lockdowns, the emptying out of people (workers, international students etc) with eyes on the street, and emergency accommodation bringing new people into the city centre with no place to go during the day.

The City Centre Community Safety Taskforce led by council’s community team has been given additional resourcing and is working on several actions across multiple agencies including Heart of the City, residents, MSD and the Police. At the last meeting on 25 March participants reported the city centre has turned the corner and things are improving.  We are likely to see further improvements as university students return from 4 May and restrictions are lifted.

Meeting the beat Police on Fort St during a Friday night “walkabout” with the Acting Area Commander, the Mayor and Cr Darby of city centre hot spots

Also, on 25 March I attended a Friday night “walkabout” with the Acting Area Commander, the Mayor and Cr Darby of city centre hot spots.  What we heard is that police resourcing has ramped up since the end of MIQ and the worst of the outbreak that had a big impact on staffing numbers covering shift work.  The Area Commander has introduced beat police who are out in the city centre on foot and in patrol cars.  Fort St is one problem area that has been a focus of operations.

In response to requests for the return of a city centre police station the Commander explained that the way people now interact with the police and contact the police makes a bricks and mortar police station unnecessary and not a good use of resources.  For example, people will use their own phone on the spot rather than run to a police station. Police can now gather evidence and respond in lots of different ways backed up by units in patrol cars and the eagle helicopter.

A police station might be a visible way of giving people comfort that the police are actively working on crime, but it doesn’t serve the same purpose as it once did in terms of how police can effectively respond and how the police can be contacted.

Following the walkabout, we have followed up on the need to improve the design of the Fort St area through a CPTED review.   This is being worked on by Council and Auckland Transport.  Te Komititanga, Wynyard Quarter and Vincent Street are areas I have also been focused on following concerns raised by residents.

On Vincent St I have secured the placement of physical barriers to deter illegal parking. The rocks have been funded from the city centre targeted rate.

Rocks provide a physical barrier to deter parking on Vincent St, City Centre, Auckland

Councillor report February 2022: The year ahead

This is my first Councillor report of 2022.  It has been prepared for the February business meetings of the Waitematā, Waiheke and Aotea Great Barrier Local Boards.

This month I look ahead to what is coming up this year relevant to my various positions*. There is still a great deal of uncertainty about how the year will shape up but the on-going response to the pandemic will continue be a central focus.

There is also no escaping that this year is election year! In September I will be standing again for the position of Councillor for the Waitematā and Gulf ward.

Climate Action (Deputy Chair, Environment and Climate Change Committee)

In all my decision making across all my Governing Body work I ask the question whether the recommended approach puts us on a pathway for meeting our ambitious emission reduction targets.  The Transport Emissions Reduction Plan progress report received by the committee in December 2021 confirmed Auckland’s emissions are not remotely tracking in line with the target to reduce emissions by 50 percent by 2030.

A big challenge that tests the wider council family is how to move away from business-as-usual thinking.  For example, the Eastern Busway project builds in not just PT but a significant widening of general traffic lanes based on “modelling” for growth.  I have asked the project team to explain what has been modelled based on the inputs required to meet emissions targets by reducing vehicle trips.  A decision on the project goes to the AT Board on 24 February.

Another significant opportunity to deliver on Auckland’s Climate Plan Te Tāruke a Tāwhiri comes with the refresh of the Cycling Business Case due with the Planning Committee in March. It will require a massive step up in budget, delivery, and ambition to provide the safe infrastructure needed to provide a genuine alternative to driving, especially for local trips. How Auckland Transport undertakes renewals is another area where I have been pushing for a change in approach from “like for like” renewals that fail to leverage opportunities for safer, climate friendly streets and a reduction in costs.

Some of the key pieces of work coming to the Environment and Climate Change committee this year include:

  • Climate change adaptation targets
  • Corporate sustainability strategy
  • Draft National Adaptation Plan released for consultation in August (TBC)
  • Final Emissions Reduction Plan to be released in May
At Black Bridge Nursery on a visit in September 2020 with Cr Richard Hills and Council arborist Howell Davies

As Deputy Chair of the Committee, I have worked with Chair Hills in support of the Mayor’s proposed Climate Action Targeted Rate (CATR) over 10 years that will fund $574 million directly and seek to unlock a further $471 million from Government subsidies and other sources to help us meet our climate commitments.

It will see more than $600 million invested in 10 new frequent bus routes and 69 improved bus routes, as well as 79 additional electric or hydrogen buses. This will deliver improved services available to more than a million Aucklanders and see 170,000 more people brought within 500m of a frequent bus route. $122 million will go towards replacing aging diesel ferries, which contribute 21 per cent of public transport emissions, with low emission ferries.

  • Cycling and walking will benefit from a $228 million investment in new infrastructure and improvements or extensions to existing routes, making our streets safer for our kids to walk or cycle to school.
  • Around 15,000 native trees between 1-1.5 meters tall will be planted on streets and in parks, playgrounds and road reserves, while thousands of additional trees and plants will go to extending bush remnants. Our planting programme will focus on low-income areas that currently have a low tree cover.
  • The CATR proposal is going out for consultation as part of the Annual Budget 22/23 from 28 February until 28 March https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/. I will be taking part in a range of programmed consultation events including in person on Aotea Great Barrier on 12 March (subject to traffic light settings).

Also in the consultation is a proposal to move to a region-wide rates-funded rubbish collection service with a choice of three bin sizes (with different pricing for each) to accommodate different household needs. Standardised services and charges across the region will mean everyone pays the same for the same size bin no matter where you live, which is more equitable. The proposed rates-based service is also more cost effective than the currently planned pay-as-you-throw (PAYT) model with prepaid bin tags or bags.

One-day collection of rubbish washed up on Hauturu Little Barrier Island in January 2021

In December I was a signatory to council’s feedback on the Ministry for the Environment’s proposals for a new waste strategy and the issues and options for new waste legislation (Te kawe i te haepapa para – Taking responsibility for our waste).  Council’s submission noted the need for greater ambition from government to make Aotearoa a world leader in a circular economy approach.  The submission will be available on the Committee’s agenda in March.

Berm planting guidelines

Berm garden on Richmond Rd originally planted by my mum and Grey Lynn 2030 volunteers

A long-standing initiative I have been working on is the development of berm planting guidelines that recognise the community and environmental benefits of appropriate planting on Auckland’s grass verges or berms (also called nature strips).

Auckland Transport has resisted various attempts to develop guidelines and move beyond a prohibitive and prescriptive approach.  I hope to see that change this year with a request to bring the issue to the Committee.

Restoring the health of Hauraki Gulf, Tīkapa Moana, Te Moananui-ā-Toi ( Co-chair, Hauraki Gulf Forum)

In the first NZ Listener editorial of the year we (co-chairs) had the opportunity to highlight the positive impact of iwi-led rāhui and fishery closures are having in helping to heal the Hauraki Gulf, Tīkapa Moana, Te Moananui-ā-Toi.

This marked a positive start to what will be a big year for the Forum as we progress our goals to protect and enhance the Gulf.  At our 28 February meeting we will be considering options to upgrade and strengthen the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Act. There are likely to be amendments to the Act as a result of the Resource Management and Conservation reforms and as a result of proposals from Revitalising the Gulf. However, there is no process at the moment for a full review of the HGMPA. The Forum is just updating our advocacy position on legislative changes we think are necessary and looking at models of co-governance such as the Waikato River model.  The steps towards forming an advocacy position on how the Act could be strengthened in the best interests of the Hauraki Gulf has been underway for some time and through three separate reviews.

Consultation on the draft Regional Parks Management Plan

The Forum is looking to support the proposal in the draft Regional Parks Management Plan currently out for consultation to investigate including regional parks that contribute to the coastal areas of the Gulf into the Marine Park.

This has created some controversy because it has been incorrectly reported the proposal will in some way give control to the Forum over regional parks. In fact, if it did go ahead, it would mean that Council as owner and administrator of regional parks would have to recognise and give effect to the purpose of the Park.

Takahē walks across our path at Tāwharanui Regional Park

The purposes of the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park are—

(a) to recognise and protect in perpetuity the international and national significance of the land and the natural and historic resources within the Park:

(b) to protect in perpetuity and for the benefit, use, and enjoyment of the people and communities of the Gulf and New Zealand, the natural and historic resources of the Park including scenery, ecological systems, or natural features that are so beautiful, unique, or scientifically important to be of national significance, for their intrinsic worth:

(c) to recognise and have particular regard to the historic, traditional, cultural, and spiritual relationship of tangata whenua with the Hauraki Gulf, its islands and coastal areas, and the natural and historic resources of the Park:

(d) to sustain the life-supporting capacity of the soil, air, water, and ecosystems of the Gulf in the Park.

Feedback on the draft plan is open until 4 March https://akhaveyoursay.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz/regional-parks-management-plan

Whale tales

The move to red traffic light setting on 23  January has had a huge impact on the summer of events lined up for Auckland. Cancellations include Fashion Week, Pride Festival, Movies in Parks, Buskers Festival, Waitangi Day festivities and most of the Auckland Arts Festival programme.

One event continuing until April is Whale Tales, a public art trail across Tāmaki Makaurau to raise awareness of the vital work WWF-New Zealand does to look after our ocean, including our beautiful Hauraki Gulf and its endangered resident, the Bryde’s Whale.  In the pic a Whale Tale at Western Park, Ponsonby Road

Local Government Reforms (LGNZ National Council member and Auckland Zone co-chair)

A big part of council’s work this year will be responding to the Government’s reform agenda that is continuing at pace.

Three Waters

At Watercare’s Māngere Wastewater Treatment Plant with Cr Josephine Bartley

The council consulted with Aucklanders from 3-19 December 2021 on the Three Waters proposals to ensure the region’s views on the proposed new entity were represented when the working group on representation, governance and accountability reports back to the Minister of Local Government. An independent poll of more than 2000 people was also carried out for council by Kantar Public to ensure the views of a representative cross section of Aucklanders were heard.

The results show Auckland Council’s views on the government’s proposed three waters reforms are strongly backed by the public.

LGNZ sought a delay to the legislation last year until after the Working Group reports back at the end of February.  It is not about “stopping three waters” when there is a compelling case for change but ensuring the new model is fit for purpose and accountable.

Housing

The Resource Management (Enabling Housing Supply and Other Matters) Amendment Act was passed into law in December.  The new Act brings into effect Medium Density Residential Standards (MDRS) relaxing key design standards in Auckland’s current Mixed Housing Urban Zone.  The Act removes council’s ability to include standards more restrictive than the MDRS giving rise to concerns regarding the potential for poor quality outcomes.  The MDRS applies across all residential zones except Aotea and Waiheke (this was a positive change made to the Bill) and predominantly rural areas with populations less than 5,000.

The Unitary Plan change incorporating the MDRS requirements must be notified by Council by August this year.  I am working to ensure that a more focused pre-notification engagement around key topics (such as council’s proposals in relation to Special character areas) takes place despite the more challenging timeframe brought in by the Act.  The Planning Committee are due to be advised of the revised timetable shortly.

(Photo taken by my mum from her balcony at Co-Haus Grey Lynn.  This type of housing will be enabled under the new Act. Full disclosure: I live around the corner in a special character zone.  I think we can work towards a win-win of more housing AND heritage protection of what all Aucklanders value).

Resource Management Reform

One of the key issues that I have pushed, along with Cr Hills and the Mayor, through the reform process currently underway has been the need to reinstate tree protection at the earliest opportunity.

The beating heart of Tāmaki Makaurau (member of the Auckland City Centre Advisory Board and member of the Auckland Domain Committee)

Fort Street pocket park

In December it was announced that the last three stages of the Wai Horotiu Queen Street Project – from Shortland Street to Mayoral Drive – would be delivered in one cohesive design with construction starting in January. The design will move towards a safer, greener people- focused street with no general traffic. I am pleased to see the project progress and that Eke Panuku is now the lead city centre agency.

At the beginning of the year I met with David Rankin, CEO of Eke Panuku to discuss key city centre issues in the next couple of years and how well the different agencies work together. (David and Eke Panuku reps are meeting a range of stakeholders on this topic).

Parking enforcement and management is one of the areas I am looking to Panuku to focus on so that it is aligned with city centre priorities. Illegal parking in the Domain and improving safe connections is also an issue I have been working on via the Auckland Domain Committee.

A highlight from the end of last year was the Dame Whina Cooper Tunnel Boring Machine breakthrough at the new Aotea Station after it left Mt Eden on its 1.6km journey.

CRL tunnel breakthrough December 2021 with MP Chloe Swarbrick

The breakthrough on 22 December meant the project team were able to enjoy a well-deserved Christmas rest before starting on the second CRL tunnel this year.

Focus on the Waitematā & Gulf Ward

I am fortunate to represent a ward covering three local board areas that includes the city centre, central suburbs and gulf islands.  I respond regularly to local issues and support the local boards to progress their priorities. I value the positive working relationship I have with all three local board chairs and the ability to work together on local issues I can progress through my work on the governing body.

In addition to initiatives outlined above here are some of my ward priorities for the year:

  • Working with local boards,  Quiet Sky Waiheke and the Herne Bay Residents Association to limit the proliferation of helicopter movements
  • Work towards the introduction of coastal occupation charges so that council has the ability to charge an annual fee for structures that occupy public space in the coastal marine area such as marinas
  • City Centre safety and noise issues
  • Destination management plans for the Gulf Islands
  • The successful redevelopment of the Downtown car park and Wynyard point (photo right).
  • Implementation of Access for Everyone
  • Business support in response to the ongoing pressure of the traffic light settings including the provision of additional space for outside dinning

There will be region-wide initiatives that arise as the year progresses for example targeted free fares.   I will continue to report monthly on my activities

* it is not possible to cover everything coming up during 2022 and all priorities.  I will however try to keep this report updated here with new initiatives and developments  as the year progresses

Chair’s monthly report March 2019

This report covers the period 12 February until 12 March 2019. It is on the agenda for the Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 19 March 2019.

The Ellen Melville Centre acknowledged International Women’s Day on 8 March with this wonderful mural (picture below) celebrating Ellen Melville and each of the women who have rooms named after them at the centre.

Annual Budget 19/20 consultation

Council’s annual budget consultation started on 17 February and continues until 17 March.  This is the community’s opportunity to give feedback on whether we have got our local board priorities right.  We’re not proposing major changes to the existing work programme for 2019/2020 as we continue to deliver the projects identified in the 2017 Waitematā Local Board Plan.

Summary of what we propose to do (from the consultation material available online)

  • Developing 254 Ponsonby Road as a civic space remains our major local initiative.
  • Activating, improving and renewing our parks, guided by our Park Development Plans, will continue to be a focus.
  • We will improve the playgrounds at Western Springs Lakeside Park and Home Street Reserve, provide pathways in Basque Park and commence building the Grey Lynn Park changing rooms.
  • Our waterway restoration projects will continue, and we will seek opportunities to implement initiatives to enhance the Western Springs-Meola-Three Kings Aquifer.
  • Through our grants programme, we will support community and arts groups and local events, as well as stage our two flagship events; Parnell Festival of Roses and Myers Park Medley.
  • We are funding an arts partnership with TAPAC and increased library hours at Grey Lynn Library and the Central City Library.
  • We will also continue investigating opportunities to reduce agrichemical use, including advocating to the Governing Body to take a regional approach to agrichemical-free park maintenance.

Chair’s message from the consultation material Attachment 1.

We have held an extensive range of engagement events including, for the first time, a Facebook live session hosted by myself and local board member Adriana Christie (photo right).  As at 11 March the video has been viewed over 4,400 times.

Safe and appropriate speeds consultation

Consultation started on 28 February on Auckland Transport’s proposals to reduce speeds on 10 per cent of Auckland’s roads (including the city centre and residential streets in Freemans Bay). All the evidence shows that safe and appropriate speed limits save lives regardless of the cause of a crash.

I joined AT CEO Shane Ellison, AT Board Chair Dr Lester Levy, Councillor Chris Darby and Rodney Local Board member Louise Johnston for the media announcement at Auckland Transport.  (Auckland Transport’s media release Attachment 2).  Feedback is open until 31 March. 

 Western Springs Water Quality

 At the local board February business meeting we received a presentation on Western Springs Lake water quality. This follows on from a range of complaints regarding maintenance and the condition of the park.   Weekly inspections are now underway with the contractor Ventia regarding maintenance improvements

In response we also received the following update from Community Facilities regarding water quality.  Thirty-five barley bales were installed at Western Springs by 8 October 2018. A proactive inspection regime to remove or rescue dead and sick birds began on 18 October. The shorelines are inspected each Monday, Wednesday and Friday, commencing  18 October and continuing through summer. To 22 February 2019 six dead birds and six dead fish were located and removed. Three sick birds were seen but were unable to be caught. The dead and sick birds were located during inspections; no reports from members of the public have been received for sick or dead birds, and only one report of a dead fish (which is included in the total of six) at Western Springs. Contractors completed a scoop of built-up algae and debris at the water’s edge on 12 February and are attending each Friday to inspect and remove the algae and debris as needed (the inspection includes the two weirs). A large volume of fallen branches and general litter had accumulated below water contractors completed removal on 21 February.

 Queens Wharf Extension Dolphin Mooring

Panuku Development Auckland has applied to the Auckland Council for resource consent (coastal permit) to carry out upgrades to the eastern Queens Wharf cruise ship berth to provide for the mooring of cruise ships up to 362 metres (Oasis-class vessels), involving construction of two new cruise ship mooring dolphins located at distances of 49 metres and 82 metres (to the centres of the dolphins) north of the northern end of the wharf, a gangway connection including hydraulic retractable gangway and security gates, strengthening of the southern end of the wharf, seven new additional wharf bollards on the eastern side of the southern end of wharf, and additional fender clusters on the eastern side at the north end.

The local board was originally supportive of a temporary mooring “dolphin”.  However, we reviewed the submissions and the Final Report by the planning consultant that opposes the application and decided to make a presentation to the Hearing Panel (Attachment 3)

Deputy Chair Shale Chambers and I presented at the hearing to oppose the application on the basis that the board wishes to see Captain Cook Wharf developed as the primary cruise ship terminal.

I was also invited to speak at the “Stop Stealing our Harbour” protest rally on 10 March.

Freedom Camping

As a matter of principle the Waitematā Local Board doesn’t support freedom camping in central Auckland’s parks and reserves. However, the Freedom Camping Act doesn’t allow us to make a blanket ban so three locations went out for consultation until 18 February (photo right Coxs Bay reserve).

I presented at the Freedom Camping hearing on behalf of the local board (Attachment 2) highlighting three key points:

  1.  to reconfirm our general view expressed in June 2018, that freedom camping opportunities should be limited in the city centre and central suburbs and we should be taking a more strategic approach to the facilities provided for visitors.  For example using and promoting the existing certified self-contained camping facility in Westhaven managed by Panuku.  This facility was built with ratepayer funding for the Rugby World Cup 2011
  2. recommending to the panel that Fred Ambler Lookout on Gladstone Road and Cox’s Bay Esplanade be removed from Schedule B and included on the schedule of prohibited sites in the bylaw
  3.  to reconfirm our original recommendation for Newmarket Park to not be scheduled in the bylaw and continue to apply the default position under the Reserves Act.

Meetings and workshops: 12 February until 12 March

  • Waitematā Local Board workshops on 12 and 26 February and 5 and 12 March
  • Introduction to the new Senior Maintenance Delivery Coordinator for Waitematā on 12 February
  • Western Bays Pest Coordinators meeting on 13 February
  • Communications meeting on 13 and 27 February
  • Meeting to discuss Good Citizen Awards 2019 criteria and format
  • Ponsonby Business Association monthly board meeting on 14 February
  • Meeting with Panuku to discuss proposed mooring dolphin on Queens Wharf
  • Monthly catch up with representative of City Centre Residents Group on 14 February
  • Catch up with Newmarket Business Association GM on 15 February
  • Engagement meeting on 18 February with Productivity Commission on the Local government funding and financing inquiry with Councillors, Senior Staff, IMBS representatives and Local Board Chairs (myself and Manurewa Local Board Chair Angela Dalton)
  • Weekly chairs catch-up held on 18, 25 February and 4 March
  • Meeting on 19 February with Lauren Mentjox, Public Affairs Manager, Lime Scooters
  • Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 19 February
  • Waitematā Local Board input to Queens Wharf Dolphin Mooring resource consent hearing on 20 February
  • Introduction to Martin Sheldon, new General Manager of America’s Cup Events on 20 February
  • Erebus Memorial project meetings with a parks adviser on 21 February and 4 March to discuss local board comments on the shortlisted designs (delegated to myself and Deputy Chair Shale Chambers)
  • Auckland Domain Committee workshop and business meeting on 21 February
  • Presentation on 27 February on behalf of the local board to the Freedom Camping in Vehicles Bylaw Hearings Panel (Attachment 3)
  • Meeting with representatives of the Herne Bay Petanque Club at the local board office on 27 February to discuss the Salisbury Reserve entrance improvements
  • Attended the Media briefing – Safe Speeds Bylaw at Auckland Transport on 27 February
  • Joint Governing Body / Local Board Chairs Meeting on 27 February
  • City Centre network meeting at the Ellen Melville Centre on 28 February
  • Hosted a Facebook live Have your say event with board member Adriana Avendaño Christie on 28 February
  • LGNZ Zone 1 meeting in Orewa on 1 March
  • Catch up with K Rd business association GM on 4 March
  • Catch up with Chairs of Herne Bay Residents Association and St Marys Association on 4 March
  • Western Bays Community Group AGM on 4 March
  • Tūpuna Maunga Authority: 2019 Local Board Chairs’ hui on 11 March
  • Chairs Forum 11 March
  • Local Board Chairs Cluster Meeting on 11 March with Ian Maxwell, Director Community Services
  • Erebus Memorial site visit with Ministry of Culture staff, representatives of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and design panel members on 12 March

Attended the following Have Your Say events (in full or part of the time)

  • Parnell Library drop in on Wednesday 20 February, 11.30am – 1.30pm
  • Local Board stalls at Parnell Farmers Market on Saturday 23 February, 8.00am – 12.00noon
  • Local Board Grey Lynn Farmers Market on Sunday 3 March, 8.30am – 12.00noon
  • Central City library drop in on Monday 4 March, 11.00am – 1.00pm (photo right)
  • Central City Library drop in on Sunday 10 March, 3.00pm – 5.00pm
  • Annual Budget/Water Strategy event: Westhaven Have Your Say at Ponsonby Cruising Club on 11 March

Events and functions:  12 February until 12 March

  • Parnell Business Association monthly networking event on 12 February
  • Lantern Festival opening on 14 February
  • Pride Festival event: Mika book talk at Ellen Melville Centre on 16 February (photo right with Mika and author Sharon Mazer)
  • Ponsonby Road Festival on 16 February
  • Myers Park Medley on 17 February (photo right with board members Denise Roche, Richard Northey and Adriana Christie)
  • Jessica Phuang celebration to her promotion as NZ Police’s Ethnic Responsiveness Manager Tāmaki Makaurau at the Flicking Centre on 18 February (photo below)
  • Member of the official party at the citizenship ceremony on 18 February at Eden Park
  • Auckland Conversations: Our Water Future: putting water at the centre of our city on 21 February
  • Jazz and beanbags at Western Park on 21 February
  • Joined a panel discussion at the Elect Women workshop organised by Women in Urbanism on 23 February at Central City Library (photo right: Elected members who spoke at the event together with Emma McInnes, organizer).
  • Organic Market Garden (OMG) celebration on 25 February
  • A conversation with Auckland Transport CEO, Shane Ellison to talk about a 30km city centre organised by Heart of the City at the Mercure Hotel on 26 February
  • Fringe Festival show: That’s what Friends are for by the Hobson Street Theatre Company at Basement Theatre at the invitation of University of Auckland on 26 February (I paid for my ticket as a koha to HSTC)
  • RFA function for local board representatives at the Maritime Museum on 27 February
  • Attended Little Day Out at Mt Eden Village Hall on 2 March
  • Japan Day festival opening event at Eden Park on 3 March (photo right my nephew Tomu really unimpressed to meet Mayor Phil Goff and Deputy Mayor Bill Cashmore)
  • Launch of Phil Goff’s Mayoral Campaign at the Mt Albert Memorial Hall on 3 March
  • Alumni Awards dinner hosted by the University of Auckland at Old Government House on 8 March
  • Freemans Bay School rebuild celebration (in the photo right with Tama Davis, Chair of the BOT and Lucia Davis)
  • Spoke at the Stop Stealing our Harbour protest rally opposing the dolphin mooring extension on Queens Wharf on 10 March
  • POP pop-up art projects in public spaces, bringing creativity and surprise to central Auckland started 21 February and ran until 12 March including Pop Ping Pong in Freyberg Square and Pop poetry on K’rd (Attachment 5 Our Auckland: Pop Poetry lifts words off the page with music)

 

 

Chair’s monthly report February 2019

This is my first report for 2019 covering the period 12 December 2018 until 11 February 2019.

I’m really fortunate to have fantastic colleagues on the Waitematā Local Board supported by an outstanding team. After our final workshop of the year it has become a tradition to have lunch together and for board members to be presented with a surprise Christmas card. For the 2018 card we took on superpower characters that will no doubt take us into 2019 full of energy!

In the photo right with superheroes Shale Chambers, Adriana Avendaño Christie, Richard Northey, Vernon Tava, Rob Thomas and Denise Roche.

The following provides a summary of activities and highlights from the end of 2018 and over the summer break.  Local Board weekly workshops resumed on 5 February.

Salisbury Reserve entranceway

Land purchased to create an entrance way to Salisbury Reserve

 At the December Business Meeting the Local Board made the decision to progress with a new entrance way at Salisbury Reserve (Attachment 1). The Masonic Lodge, off Argyle St, was purchased from an Open Space budget by the former Auckland City Council to create an entranceway into the Reserve.

The Local Board consulted on two options – with and without parking. A healthy majority of submitters (68 per cent) supported the entranceway option with no car parks. We delayed our final (unanimous) decision to undertake a survey of the on-street parking availability on busy days at the clubrooms. It shows there is ample parking within a 200m walk of the clubroom (on the Argyle St end rather than Salisbury St). The on-street parking is the same distance to the clubroom entrance as the location of car parking in the Reserve proposed in one of the options.
The reserve is a neighbourhood park. It provides valuable green space. It is very unusual to have parking in a neighbourhood park and is not consistent with Council’s policies. Submitters put forward a range of reasons for creating an entranceway without parking including that it is safer for children and all users of the park.

The Local Board is supportive of the Herne Bay Petanque Club and Probus who use the clubrooms for meetings. Members currently make informal use of the old Masonic lodge carpark (there is no official parking in the reserve).  We appreciate that they would like this arrangement to continue. We have asked Auckland Transport to install on-street mobility car parks. We are also looking at how to improve accessibility into clubrooms.

Annual Budget 2019/20 consultation

As I reported in the February Ponsonby News, the Council’s annual budget consultation is coming up from 17 February.  This is the opportunity to give feedback on whether we have got our local board priorities right.  We’re not proposing major changes to the existing work programme for 2019/2020 as we continue to deliver the projects identified in the 2017 Waitematā Local Board Plan.

Developing 254 Ponsonby Road as a civic space remains our major local initiative.  Activating, improving and renewing our parks, guided by our Park Development Plans, will continue to be a focus.  There is budget earmarked to upgrade the playgrounds at Western Springs Lakeside Park and Home Street Reserve (above the draft concept design), provide pathways in Basque Park and commence building of the Grey Lynn Park changing rooms.

Our stream restoration projects will continue, and we’ve got a new project underway to enhance the Western Springs-Meola-Three Kings Aquifer. Through our grants programme, we’ll support community and arts groups and local events, as well as stage our two flagship events, Parnell Festival of Roses and Myers Park Medley (a family friendly free event on Sunday 17 February). We’re funding a new arts partnership with TAPAC and increased library hours at Grey Lynn Library and the Central City Library.

We’ll also continue investigating opportunities to reduce agrichemical use, including advocating to the Governing Body to take a regional approach to agrichemical-free park maintenance.

For information on the Annual Budget 19/20 consultation and engagement events visit the Auckland Council website.

Air Quality in the City Centre

Pedestrians and workers in Queen Street are being exposed to high levels of “black carbon” associated with a number of health problems. The key way of reducing air pollution in the city centre is to reduce emissions from buses and trucks. Councillors Chris Darby, Penny Hulse, Alf Filipaina, Richard Hills and I, on behalf of the Local Board, wrote to AT’s CEO on 17 December asking for “immediate action to alleviate the risk of more premature deaths, contributed to by atrocious air quality on our busiest street” (Attachment 3 to my report).

 Te Hā o Hine interpretation sign

 On 12 December a new interpretation signage at Te Hā o Hine Place was unveiled by Ngāti Whātua Orākei, alongside our board and National Council of Women representatives (photo right).

Te Hā o Hine is derived from the whakatauki (proverb) Me aro koe ki te Hā o Hine-ahu-one, that can be taken as meaning ‘pay heed to the dignity of women’.

The name was a gift from Ngāti Whātua Orākei in recognition of the Woman’s Suffrage Centenary Memorial located in Te Hā o Hine Place.

Western Park steps and boardwalk opening

On 12 December the Local Board members joined with local residents to celebrate the new stairs that connect Hopetoun Street with Western Park.

The stairs have new handrails to improve accessibility and the viewing platform on Hopetoun Street has been re-decked.

Feedback on the upgrade has been overwhelmingly positive.

Western Springs Lakeside Park

 Western Springs Lakeside Park featured on TVNZ One News on 21 January about plans the Local Board has to improve water quality and the work underway to keep paths clear of bird poo and the geese numbers under control (attachment 4).

At the same time the removal of pine trees at risk of failure was in the news.  I will report with an update on Westerns Springs Bush Restoration project next month once we know the outcome of the resource consent process and discussions with neighbours.

Feedback on the draft RPTP

I worked on the Local Board’s feedback on the draft Regional Public Transport Plan (RPTP) with the Local Board’s Senior Adviser.  This was submitted on 18 January following consideration of the public’s feedback in response to a consultation process held by Auckland Transport at the end of 2018. (attached as an agenda item)

The Local Board supports the overall direction of the draft RPTP, the vision for public transport and how Auckland Transport proposes to meet the identified challenges for the next 10 years. We are generally supportive of the steps to increase public transport services but would like to see a clear statement of intent to increase mode-share of public transport.

In the feedback we outlined what the Local Board supports to consolidate and build on the rapid increase in public transport boardings from 79 million in June 2015 to 92 million in June 2018.  We also outline what improvements we would like to see to public transport services (including the reinstatement of a service on Williamson Ave) and infrastructure and specific feedback on the four focus areas in the draft.

 Kelmarna Gardens entranceway

 At the end of last year the entranceway to Kelmarna Organic Community Gardens and City Farm was given a makeover helped with a modest grant from the Local Board (Our Auckland: Kelmarna Gardens)

As described by Kelmarna (via their FB page) “The installation of the curved seat (designed by Carl Pickens Landscape Architect), new bike parking and wheel stops, shaping and edging of the gardens, smoothing of the drive and creation of a circle for our leafcutter bee box has been made possible by the generosity, sweat and toil of Norm and team at Landscape Solutions, Omid and team at Ventia, the Waitematā Local Board and Auckland Council, all in the last weeks before Christmas. Once planted with pollinator-attracting plants by our friend Andrea Reid from Pollinator Paths, visitors will be able to come, rest and absorb the sensory garden full of bees and butterflies”.

Events and functions:  12 December until 12 February

  • Western Park Boardwalk opening on 12 December
  • Exhibition opening at Toi Ora on 12 December
  • Vigil for Grace on Federal Street on 12 December
  • Te Hā o Hine Place signage unveiling on 13 December
  • Tour of the City Rail Link tunnels for board members on 14 December (photo right) and community stakeholders thank you gathering on 13 December hosted by CRL Ltd.
  • Ports of Auckland community liaison meeting and Christmas gathering on 12 December
  • Rainbow Youth sponsors breakfast
  • Love Food, Hate Waste Christmas lunch at Ellen Melville Centre on 14 December (photo right)
  • Christmas in Western Park event hosted by the Ponsonby Business Association on 14 December
  • Launch of Cr Mike Lee’s book Navigators & Naturalists on 16 December
  • Final workshop of the year on 18 December followed by Christmas lunch for local board members and local board staff
  • Heart of the City’s Late Night Christmas event in the city centre on 20 December
  • On 23 December invited to Sunday Blessings’ Christmas dinner for the homeless community served by volunteers at the Central Library.  Also there in support were The Auckland Street Choir and Orange Sky New Zealand.
  • Invited by Holy Trinty Cathedral to read the Third Lesson at the Festival of Nine Lessons & Carols (photo right)
  • Attended the ASB Classic on 4 January at the invitation of Tennis Auckland
  • Invited by Fiftysix Creations to be a Guest Mentor at Business Camp on 16 January for students aged 5 to 15 who came together over the school holidays to identify a community based problem
  • Opening of the Buskers Festival at the invitation of Crackerjack Productions
  • Over anniversary weekend enjoyed the See Port Festival fireworks put on by Ports of Auckland and checked out the Rainbow Machine at Silo Park (modelled in the photo right by Luna, Ruby and the White Face Crew). This amazing creation originated as a Local Board child friendly pop up play spaces project which got picked up by the regional art team. Artists: Shahriar Asdollah-Zadeh, Patrick Loo and Sarosh Mulla
  • Waitangi Day started with a small gathering organized by Cr Mike Lee and Terry Dunleavy to acknowledge Governor William Hobson at his grave in Symonds St cemetery. Niamh McMahon, honorary consul general of the Republic of Ireland attended and recited a poem. I then enjoyed the Waitangi Day Festival hosted by Ngāti Whātua at Okahu Bay
  • LGNZ National Council meeting in Wellington on 8 February. In the photo right with Mayor of Dunedin and LGNZ President Dave Cull and Deputy Mayor of Oamaru and Young Elected Member rep, Melanie Tavendale
  • Tom Scott’s Daylight Atheist at the ASB Waterfront Theatre at the invitation of ATC
  • Big Gay Out at Coyle Park on 10 February (photo below with Albert-Eden Local Board member Jessica Rose and a friend Kirstin Jones)
  • Leaving function for Lester McGrath from Auckland Theatre Company on 11 February

Chair’s monthly report March 2017

Report covering the period 10 February until 13 March 2017.

Highlights

  • Following the extreme weather event in March Aucklanders are being urged to reduce water use for several weeks to avoid the need to boil water due to the amount of silt that has entered the treatment plant
  • Consultation got underway on the Annual Budget 2017/18.  The Waitematā Local Board held a Have your Say hearing style event on 8 March attended by Mayor Goff and Councillors Mike Lee, Daniel Newman and Desley Simpson (Photo right). Feedback is open until 27 March
  • Guest speaker at an International Women’s Day morning tea hosted by Panuku Development Auckland
  • Auckland Arts Festival 2017 started on 8 March
  • Beating the Bounds triennial event on 4 March in partnership with Walk Auckland. A walk of the Waitemata Local Board boundary from Meola Reef to Pt Resolution
  • Construction has started on the Grey Lynn Pump Track (a community-led project), Grey Lynn Greenways route connecting Coxs Bay to Grey Lynn Park and on the Ponsonby Road Pedestrian Improvement Project
  • Waitemata Youth Collective at Myers Park Medley

    Myers Park Medley successfully held on 26 February (photo right with members of the Waitemata Youth Collective at their engagement stand)

  • Myers Park Splash pad opened (photo below)
  • 245 Ponsonby Road community-led design exhibition and voting on the preferred concept (underway until 19 March)
  • Opening of the Parnell Train Station on 13 March (Attachment A)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Meetings and workshops: 11 February until 14 March 2017

  • Local Board Chairs’ Forum on 13 February and 13 March
  • Waitematā Local Board workshops 14, 23, 28 February and 1, 7, 14 March
  • Professional development sessions (Kura Kawana): Engaging with Maori and Wellbeing & Resilience
  • Meeting with Panuku to discuss St Mary’s Bay Water quality project
  • Domain Committee Chair introductory meeting on 15 February with Rod Sheridan, Community Facilities Manager to discuss proposed maintenance approach in the Auckland Domain
  • Wai O Rea Central Community Recovery Centre Project Design Workshop Workshop with Albert-Eden and Puketapapa Local Boards on 16 February
  • Domain Committee agenda run through on 17 February
  • Meeting to discuss Poynton Terrace Streetscape upgrade
  • Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 21 February
  • Elected Member Communications & Engagement reference group meeting on 22 February
  • Briefing by Auckland Transport on CRL development, Albert Street design
  • Auckland City Centre Advisory Board meeting (as alternate)
  • Site visit to Hopetoun Street to meet with residents concerned about a number of safety and street maintenance issues
  • Briefing from the Auckland Museum on 23 February
  • Inner City Network Monthly Meeting on 23 February
  • Waitemata Youth Collective meeting with the Board on 23 February
  • ‘Delivering for Auckland Symposium’ for all elected members on 24 February
  • Monthly regional workshop for elected members on 27 February
  • Auckland Domain Committee Workshop and Meeting on 28 February
  • Weekly Chair’s meeting every Monday morning
  • Agenda run-through with the Deputy Chair on 8 March
  • Transport portfolio catch up on 1 March
  • Meeting to discuss Italian Festival 2017 with the Events portfolio and Festival organiser on 2 March
  • Introduction meeting with Auckland Police Commander Matt Srhoj
  • Regular catch up meeting with Newmarket Business Association General Manager
  • Meeting with Chair, Friends of Symonds St cemetery on 3 March
  • Meeting to discuss transport outcome for the draft Local Board Plan 2017
  • Western Bays Community Group AGM and presentation on the Annual Budget 1207/18
  • PBA board meeting on 9 March
  • Meeting with Auckland Design Office regarding traffic calming and pedestrian safety improvements on Shortland Street
  • Presentation by Heart of the City to the Board and discussion on City Centre issues on 9 March
  • Joint planning Committee and Local Board workshop: City Centre and Waterfront work programme (City Building: Auckland Transport’s “expectations” should not dictate our planning Attachment C)

Events and functions:  10 February until 14 March 2017

  • Rainbow Youth Open Day and exhibition (sponsored by the Waitemata Local Board) on 11 February (photo right)
  • Big Gay Out at Coyle Park on 12 February
  • Revolt. She said. Revolt again at Basement Theatre on 16 February at the invitation of Silo Theatre
  • T20 NZ v SA at Eden Park at the invitation of Auckland Cricket
  • Moa Periscope Launch on 20 February: Child Friendly Development Response in Freyberg Place
  • Launch of the Auckland Fringe Festival on 21 February in Aotea Square
  • Sea Change, Wet Hot Beauties performance at Parnell Baths (at the invitation of Wet Hot Beauties)
  • Attended the Grey Lynn 2030 Repair Cafe on 18 February
  • Watched the Pride Parade in the grandstand on 25 February at the invitation of ATEED (photo right with Brett O’Reilly, ATEED CEO, Stephen Town Auckland Council CEO and Lexie Matheson, Pride Trustee )
  • Opening of Japan Day at the Cloud
  • Myers Park Medley on 26 February
  • Bike Breakfast at Scarecrow Café on 1 March
  • Patrons night at Basement Theatre on 1 March
  • Beating the Bounds on 4 March
  • Ponsonby Park concept designs exhibition on 5 March
  • Stepping up our Climate Game Auckland Conversations on 8 March
  • Opening of the Auckland Arts Festival on 8 March
  • Revolutions: Auckland Art Festival
  • Opening ceremony for Parnell Train Station 13 March (Attachment A)

Gift Declarations

  • Tickets to the T20 NZ v SA at Eden Park at the invitation of Auckland Cricket
  • Tickets to the Auckland Art Festival

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The End: Pt Resolution Bridge

 

 

Monthly board report April 2016

This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities from 1 March – 31 March 2016 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, and Chair of the Grants Committee, and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association Board and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee and Board liaison for the Parnell Community Centre.

HIGHLIGHTS:

Waitemata LB office opening local board services teamLocal Board “Democracy shop” – open for business

On 2 March the Board officially moved into our new offices at 52 Swanson Street just off St Patricks Square.  The offices are a huge improvement on our location at Graham St and provide a much better working environment for our hard working Local Board services team (photo right) and space for board members. I like to think we now have a “democracy shop”- a front door to our community that is easily accessible and welcoming.

Community Grants

 The Waitematā Local Board grants committee met on March to discuss the grant application to the Quick Response Fund and the Local Grant fund. In total we had $70,330.58 remaining  to distribute from the 15/16 financial year with one Quick Response Grant round to go (currently open until 6 May for grants up to $3000).

The grants committee minutes and recommendations for the Local Grant Fund are attached to the April agenda.

Community consultation – Annual budget 2016/17

Consultation on the Council’s Annual Budget 2016/17 and local board priorities took place until 24 March.  Community meetings in Ponsonby, Grafton Parnell and Grey Lynn were well attended but the official Have your Say consultation meeting at the Town Hall attracted only 4 members of the public.  The low attendance may partly be due to the number of events on that evening but I think the problem is mainly with the format which is very unsatisfactory for groups that wish to present feedback.  The Board’s public hearings style meeting held on 10 March provided a much more effective forum for presentations to the Board.

Cycling improvements consultation

inner west auckland cycle network During March Auckland Transport consulted on the network of cycling routes in the inner west area (map right) and asked for feedback on cycling improvements to make riding a bike for local trips safer.  The feedback period was extended to 5 April.

I attended the consultation events in Grey Lynn Park on 13 and 20 March.

This is the first time that Auckland Transport has consulted on the actual routes that make up the Auckland Cycle Network and support the routes in our Greenways plan.

Pippa Coom and Christopher Dempsey Lightpath Te ara i whiti / Lightpath

The electronic counter doesn’t lie!  The aphorism “Build it and they will come” proved ever so true when it comes to the amazing magenta adventure.

Christopher and I were very happy to celebrate the 100,000 trip over Lightpath since opening day on 3 December 2015.  Almost 1,000 people a day are riding the route.

There are also huge numbers of people enjoying Lightpath on foot at all times of day and night. Unfortunately the walking counter has not been working so Auckland Transport is unable to provide exact data at the moment.

Lantern Festival – transport planning

valet bike parking Lantern FestivalThe Lantern Festival, held for the first time in the Domain in February was the first Auckland Council funded evening event to promote active transport. The valet parking provided at the venue was a big success working to encourage people to give cycling ago – many bringing along children. However the overall communication and coordination regarding transport to the event was not well managed by Auckland Transport and there were a lot of lessons for next time.  I have sent the following email to the CEO of ATEED and the Manager Event Design who responded that it would be included in the mix for their debrief.

Congratulations to everyone involved on the success of the Lantern Festival (if the numbers attending are the best indicator of success!). I really enjoyed attending on the Friday and Sunday evenings.

I’m sure there will be a big exercise underway with Auckland Transport to look at the transport management plan and the messaging for the event next year. I just wanted to give some feedback while it is still fresh in my mind:

  • Although the map handed out on site was not intended as a travel map it was clearly being used for that purpose  – it needs to clearly show all the walking and cycling connections  (especially as people were arriving up hill at Grafton Station and able to walk down hill back to town but as previously mentioned the map showed the Domain as an island )
  • Creating a “Lantern Trail” in the same style as the RWC Fan trail (suggested route from Britomart via Beach Road, Churchhill street, and up Lovers Lane) – a few people have mentioned this idea to me
  • Improve the lighting on Lovers Lane – if felt too dark to use safety but is the logical connection to the Domain from the city
  • Close Grafton bridge to cars and only open to buses and ambulances – implement bus priority lanes
  • Provide wayfinding signage from all directions but particularly for those walking from different points in the city centre (the Wellesley St – Grafton Gully route particularly needs signage as previously mentioned but hopefully by next year AT will have finally got that sorted)
  • The valet bike parking was brilliant and I loved using it (of course!) but difficult to access so lots of bikes were parked all over the place (there was no signage to the bike parking)
  • Security guards were directing cyclists to dismount but did not know where the bike parking was located
  • Online information needs to spell out all the transport options including the location of car parks (I estimate there are at least 15 car parks in walking distance to the Domain but the online information just said “ the Domain is a 10 minute drive from the city centre” !!!).
  • Wayfinding signage needed throughout the entire site

Auckland Conversations: Climate Solutions: Cities in Action, Mark Watts, Executive Director C40 cities

Mark Watts C40Auckland has become the newest member of C40, a network of the world’s megacities committed to addressing climate change. C40 supports cities to collaborate effectively, share knowledge and drive meaningful, measurable and sustainable action on climate change. Auckland will be working with more than 80 of the world’s greatest cities, representing more than 550 million people and one quarter of the global economy. Sharing research, experiences and ideas, C40 is helping to find and implement innovative solutions to urban climate issues such as transport, energy, buildings and waste.

At the Auckland Conversations on  15 March Mark Watts talked about the initiatives that cities around the globe are putting in place to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks.

Cities are central to delivering greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets (Auckland’s target is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 40% in 2040) through a focus on land use planning, transport and buildings. Every city needs to aim to get to 1.5 tons per person per year if we have any chance of avoiding dangerous levels of climate warming. Auckland is currently at about 7.2 tons (US cities are on 16.5 tpp).

The good news from Mark is that we know what we need to do create successful, prosperous, healthy cities. No city will be successful in the future unless it is low carbon. He made comments in relation to three key areas:

1 Compact City

Sprawl is the enemy, density is the friend. 6% of growth in energy consumption is urban sprawl.  For example Copenhagen spends 4% of GDP on transport whereas Houston spends 16%.

2. Connected Cities

‘Return of the bike the most important tool in urban transport’

There are now 700 cities with bike share. 40% cycle to work in one of the richest cities.

Benefits from health care cost savings, cuts in air pollution and economic benefits

C40 consider that road pricing is inevitable in most big cities. In London as a result most people are not driving.  Stockholm has seen a 35% fall in emissions and 40% growth

3. Co-ordinated cities

Successful cities will run on data. Benchmarking is a catalyst to change. For example in NYC they are looking for a 30% GHG emissions reduction from buildings between 2005 and 2017.

 Mark ended by asking what if Mayor’s ruled the world?  Political leadership is being shown by mayors from around the world.

The Waitematā Local Board received a special mention at the event for having a Low Carbon Community Action plan and a low carbon community network.

Greenways

Hakanoa greenway routeLocal board members came together on 31 March to hear an update on the work that has been underway to progress Greenways across Auckland. Simon Randall, Chair, Maungakiekie- Tamaki Local Board is the local board representative on a Greenways Leadership group set up by Stephen Town CEO, Auckland Council. That group has been looking at how best to deliver a connected Auckland through active transport.

We heard about the work underway to create a Greenways identity, an overview of a Greenways Design Guide and the potential level of investment in Greenways.

It is great to see the enthusiasm for Greenways from Local Boards and the commitment to making Auckland the world’s best city for cycling where Greenways are embraced.

In Waitematā we have recently made progress on the Grey Lynn greenways route with the widening of the Hakanoa reserve pathway (photo right). The design of the on-road sections of the route is in the process of being finalised by Auckland Transport and will shortly be available for public input.

neighbours day carlos and tanaNeighbours Day in the City Centre

Member Deborah Yates and I, with officer support, organised a Waitematā Local Board display at the Neighbours Day event in Freyberg Square and Ellen Melville Hall as part of Neighbours Day Aotearoa.  The event was aimed at inner city residents and involved a wide range of community organisations. Thanks to Splice, ADCOSS, Heart of the City and everyone who made the celebration of the city centre happen.

Ponsonby Road improvements

Fresh Kermit Ponsonby RoadFresh Kermit!  New feeder lanes and advance stop boxes on Ponsonby Road included as part of recent re-surfacing at the Board’s request are small but significant safety improvements for all road users.

Update on the Ponsonby Road pedestrian experience is reported on our agenda by Auckland Transport.

IPENZ transportation group conference

I attended the IPENZ transportation group conference 7-9 March with funding from the Board’s professional development budget.

The report back from the conference is attached to my monthly report (item 22).

 Workshops and meetings

From 1 March – 31 March  2016 I attended:

  • Waitematā Local Board workshop on 1 March
  • Tamaki Drive Cycle Route Preferred Option/s Workshop hosted by Beca on behalf of Auckland Transport on 2 March
  • Have your say event for the Annual Budget 16/17 consultation at the Auckland Town Hall on 3 March
  • Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 8 March at our new offices on Swanson St
  • Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 9 March
  • Waitematā Local Board Annual Budget 2016/17 Hearing on 10 March
  • Met with Mik Smellie from the Residents Advisory Group on 10 March
  • Grafton Residents Association meeting to discuss the Annual budget and local board priorities on 14 March
  • Waitematā Local Board workshop on  15 March
  • Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 16 March
  • ADCOSS Forum on 17 March at Western Springs Community Hall: Towards an Age-friendly Auckland: The missing links
  • Elected Members Professional Development Programme – Social Media Forum on 18 March
  • Local Board Briefing on the new Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 on 18 March
  • Elected Members – Local Government Excellence Programme LGNZ Briefing on 21 March
  • Waitematā Local Board workshop on 22 March
  • Monthly media catch up on 22 March
  • Meeting organised by Auckland Transport to discuss the “Open Streets” event planned for 1 May on K’rd
  • Community portfolio meeting on 24 March
  • Grants Committee meeting on 30 March
  • Meeting to discuss the Ponsonby Cruising Club lease with Panuku Development Agency
  • Newmarket Lanesways project working group meeting to discuss progress to date
  • Local Board briefing on the Greenways project on 31 March

Events and functions

From 1 March – 31 March 2016 I attended:

  • Waitematā Local Board – official office opening on 2 March
  • IPENZ transportation group conference 7 -9 March (see Attachment A for my conference report back)
  • The James Play reception Steve MillerAuckland Arts Festival shows at the invitation of the AAF Trust (I have declared these tickets as gifts in accordance with Auckland Council’s code of practice)
    • Te Po
    • Cucina dell’ arte
    • St James Play: Part 1 (photo right at the opening night reception with Steven Miller who plays James I)
    • Carabosse Fire Garden at the Auckland Domain
  • Little Day Out at the Mt Eden Village Centre on 5 March
  • Music in Parks at Western Park (free music in parks event) on 5 March
  • Pasifika Festival Saturday 12 March
  • Ponsonby Market Day on Saturday 12 March
  • White Nights. Making Light performance by the Velociteers on Lightpath on 12 March
  • St Patricks Day parade along Ponsonby Road on 13 March
  • Learn to ride and consultation event in Grey Lynn Park on 13 and 20 March
  • Auckland Conversations on 15 March
  • Zoo opening with the PM March 2016One Planet Living launch at Unitec on 17 March
  • Grey Lynn school Aloha night on 18 March
  • Neighbours day city centre event on 19 March
  • David Haigh’s farewell from the Grafton Residents Association
  • Member of the official party at the Citizenship ceremony in the Town Hall on 22 March
  • Official opening of the Auckland Zoo’s new African savannah development by the Prime Minister, the Rt.Hon. John Key on 24 March 2016  (photo right)
  • Celebration of Lightpath with free ice cream on 30 March provided by Auckland Transport for the 100,000 trip since opening day on 3 December
  • Regional Facilities hosted local board function at Auckland Zoo on 30 March

Monthly board report March 2016

This report covers my Waitematā Local Board activities from 1 February – 29 February 2016 as Deputy Chair, lead for the Community and Transport portfolios, and Chair of the Grants Committee, and with positions on the Ponsonby Business Association Board and Ponsonby Community Centre Committee and Board liaison for the Parnell Community Centre.

Portfolio Updates

Community Empowerment

Cr Cathy Casey at Community Empowerment unit open day
Cr Cathy Casey at Community Empowerment unit open day

Since October 2015 Auckland Council has been in the process of implementing an empowered communities approach to community development. The new operating model involves a shift from Council delivering community development activities, to using community-led development processes.  The new approach requires Council’s operational practices to allow more people to participate and for budgets to be devolved to communities as much as possible.

The Board has been supportive of the change in approach and we welcomed our new Strategic Broker Shamila Unka at the end of last year. Shamila will be based part time at the Board’s new offices at 52 Swanson Street.

We have however been concerned to ensure a smooth transition and that none of the local board’s priorities are over looked in the new structure.

The leadership team of the new Community Empowerment Unit led by Christine Olsen met with the central area community development portfolio holders in early February and the whole Unit held a very informative Open Day for all elected representatives on 29 February 

Community development work programme

  • Priorities of the community development portfolio for 2016 include:
  • Review and refresh of the Board’s accessibility plan
  • Support for Council’s Homeless Action Plan
  • Continuing the upkeep of Waitemata’s community facilities
  • Transitioning community centres to 3 yearly agreements
  • Supporting the work of the Waitematā Youth Collective and development of a city centre youth hub
  • Provision of temporary meeting spaces in the city centre during the Ellen Meville Hall upgrade period
  • Child Friendly City Accreditation
  • Supporting community empowerment projects such as the community- led design process for 254 Ponsonby Road

Community consultation – Annual budget 2016/17

Annual budget 16The Council’s annual consultation on the budget for the following year got underway in mid-February.  As part of the process the Board also seeks feedback on our local priorities and new proposals.

Waitematā Local Board key priorities outlined in the consultation material: Based on our 10-year budget, in 2016/2017 we plan to invest $11 million to renew and develop assets in your local board area and $23 million to maintain and operate these assets and provide other local initiatives. This includes:

  • renewing existing assets ($2.4 million)
  • completing stage two of Myers Park including the improved entranceway at Mayoral Drive and installation of a splash pad ($3.3 million)
  • completing the Weona-Westmere coastal walkway ($360,000)
  • re-developing Pioneer Women’s and Ellen Melville Hall ($3.4 million)
  • commencing delivery of a streetscape improvement project from the agreed Newmarket Laneways Plan ($1.4 million)
  • delivering the new Fukuoka gardens in Western Springs park ($40,000)

It is proposed the following additional local priorities for 2016/2017 are funded through local discretionary budgets:

  • improve the pathways through Western Park and upgrade the Pt Resolution steps to concrete
  • install a new pathway through Symonds Street Cemetery to connect Karangahape Road to Grafton Gully cycleway
  • increase spend on low carbon initiatives to help Waitematā lower carbon use and become more energy-resilient including the installation of photovoltaics at Grey Lynn Community Centre
  • increase the budget for the annual Myers Park festival to provide an even better local event
  • investigate the feasibility of establishing a youth hub in the city centre
  • install a solar heating solution at Parnell Baths
  • continue to put children and young people first and achieve UNICEF Child Friendly City accreditation
  • support community-led development and place making such as the open space design for 254 Ponsonby Road and the development of a bicycle pump track at Grey Lynn Park

The Board is also considering allocating budget to change the service levels to increase maintenance of headstones and removal of graffiti at the historic Symonds Street Cemetery.

I’ve raised concerns with the regional consultation team about the poor level of communication to promote local board consultation events and the inaccessibility of the material online.

Fortunately we have a fantastic local board team who have been doing a great job on our behalf working alongside local community groups to arrange consultation events and opportunities to give feedback.

Due to a range of issues with promoting the Annual Budget 2016/17 consultation material the feedback period has been extended to 24 March.  Link to the online feedback form 

Transport

At our first transport portfolio meeting of the year we discussed a long list of updates with Auckland Transport representatives including:

  • Ponsonby Road pedestrian experience project:  The proposals for improving Ponsonby Road for people walking were consulted on from from 16 November to 7 December 2015. In total, 129 feedback responses were received with a large majority expressing strong support for the project overall.  The results and recommendations for next steps will be reported back on our April agenda.
  • Cycleway progress and implementation with Kathryn King, Manager of Walking & Cycling: AT plans to seek feedback in March from Western Bays residents on preferences for making the area more attractive for cycling. We raised the issue of the many outstanding small fixes to the existing cycle way network that we are concerned are getting forgotten with the focus on an extensive capital work programme. It was good to hear that many are underway such as contra- flows for cycling on one way streets including Crummer Road (first included in our Local Board Agreement 2011/12)
  • Quay St cyclewayQuay Street update: The design for a two-way separated cycleway on Quay Street leading from Lower Hobson Street, past Princess Wharf to Plumer Street has been confirmed. Completion is expected in April 2016
  • CRL update: Options are being considered for closing the rail crossing on Porters Ave just off New North Road on the boundary of the Waitemata Local Board area. This has an impact on the residents and businesses of Albert – Eden.
  • Nelson Street parking: Auckland Transport consulted the transport portfolio before removing the parking on Nelson St between Wellesley and Victoria Streets alongside
    Parking on Nelson Street
    Parking removed from Nelson St

    the cycleway (photo right). We didn’t object to the removal as occupancy was low and the poor layout was causing a lot of confusion for drivers. However we did ask AT to actively work with the NZ Police to enforce the speed limit on Nelson St (the parked cars had the benefit of slowing down the traffic).

  • Private Planting in Road Corridor: AT’s long awaited berm planting guidelines are expected to come back to Local Boards for comment shortly
  • Parking Fund Reserve: Approximately $100k is available to fund car parking. The transport portfolio has asked that a proposal to leverage this fund to develop sites that are in Council ownership while retaining off street car parking be investigated (for example the car park on Pompellier Tce)
  • Local Board Transport Capital Fund has $216k available that needs to be allocated by October. The Board is exploring a number of options with Auckland Transport

The Auckland Transport monthly report on our agenda provides updates in more detail.

Street Trees

Williamson Ave Rose RoadThe gutting of tree protection regulations by the government has highlighted the importance of street trees for providing the many benefits the city receives from a rich green canopy. Unfortunately Auckland Transport has generally been taking a “business as usual” approach to footpath upgrades and renewals so that opportunities to plant trees have been overlooked.

Part of the problem appears to be an institutional resistance to including trees because of the additional operational costs.

Five recent projects have exposed the need for Auckland Transport and Auckland Council to urgently agree on the policy and procedure for the planting of street trees:

  • Graham Street footpath renewal
    Graham Street footpath renewal

    Rose Road road works as a result of the new Countdown supermarket on Williamson Ave – footpath extended without tree pits (photo top)

  • Graham St footpath renewal – footpaths reinstated without tree pits (photo below)
  • Scotland Street upgrade – plans for greening the footpath build-out are still in discussion
  • Parnell Rise/ Parnell Road upgrade – plans for greening the footpath build-out are still in discussion. A tree pit was not originally included in the design because of underground utilities
  • The Dylan apartment development on the corner of Great North Road and Harcourt St- footpaths reinstated without tree pits

One piece of good news is that following our advocacy and a series of complaints Auckland Transport and the Council’s arborist were able to agree on the inclusion of 4 new tree pits on the footpath between Rose Road and Williamson Ave (issues regarding the development contribution for undertaking the remedial work and how a giant area of concrete was installed without trees in the first place are still to be resolved).

City Centre Master plan review – first steps towards Vision Zero Auckland

The City Centre Master Plan (CCMP) was published in 2012 with nine outcomes and 36 targets. The Waitematā Local Board contributed to a review of the plan leading to new outcomes and targets being signed off by the Auckland Development Committee on 11 February 2016.

I am really pleased that following a request from the Board Outcome 7 has had the words ‘moving towards zero pedestrian deaths or serious injuries as a result of vehicle collisions’ added. This is a significant contribution to road safety and is the first time the principle of “Vision Zero” has been adopted under Auckland Council.

LGNZ meeting

I attended the Zone 1 meeting in Whangarei on 26 February for Local Government NZ delegates in the Auckland and Northland area.

We received presentations from Malcolm Alexander, CEO of LGNZ and Ernst Zollner, Regional Director of NZTA.

An issue I brought up at the zone meeting was my disappointment and incredulity (shared by many elected representatives) that LGNZ has announced a conference programme with zero female presenters. It is also surprising that a conference on the theme of “place making” appears to offer so little for Local Board members.  It highlights to me that LGNZ is still struggling to respond to Auckland’s governance arrangements that established local boards representing more people than Dunedin.

Workshops and meetings

From 1 February – 29 February 2016 I attended:

  • Waitematā Local Board workshop on 2 February
  • Meeting to discuss the Board’s participation in Neighbours Day
  • Auckland Transport meeting with representatives of Franklin Road residents to discuss the planning and timetable for the upgrade that is about to get underway
  • Waitematā Local Board business meeting on 9 February in Grey Lynn
  • Ponsonby Business Association Board meeting on 10 February
  • Waitematā Local Board workshop on 11 February
  • Draft domain master plan open day on 13 February (see Attachment A)
  • Waitematā Local Board workshop on  16 February
  • Monthly Transport portfolio catch up on 17  February
  • Community portfolio meeting on 18 February
  • Community Empowerment Unit and Local Board Central Cluster Portfolio Holder meeting on 18 February to meet the new leadership team of the Unit
  • Waitematā Local Board workshop on 23 February
  • Annual Budget 2016/17 consultation meetings:
  • Western Bays Community Group AGM and presentation
  • Grey Lynn Residents Association meeting
  • Parnell Community Committee meeting
  • Inner City Network meeting
  • Meeting to discuss the development of the Uptown Business Association brand on 24 February
  • Attended the Governing Body extraordinary meeting to discuss the “out of scope” Unitary Plan zoning proposals
  • Richmond Rovers Community meeting on 24 February to discuss the club’s alcohol licence with local residents
  • BID policy workshop with representatives from Ponsonby Business Association and Parnell Inc
  • LGNZ zone 1 meeting on 26 February in Whangarei
  • Community Empowerment Unit’s open day on 29 February

Events and functions

From 1 February – 29 February 2016 I attended:

  • Associates breakfast – urban design, cycling and transport discussion on  4 February at Scarecrow café
  • Joined the anti- TPPA protest on 4 February
  • Attended the Waitangi celebrations at Takaparawha as a zero waste volunteer with Christopher Dempsey on 6 February
  • Go by Bike Day pit stop on the Lightpath on 9 February
  • Phantom of the Opera at the invitation of ATEED on 11 February
  • The Book of Everything at Q Theatre at the invitation of Silo Theatre on 12 February
  • Rock in Grey Lynn Park on 13 February (free music in parks event)
  • Polo at Sky Theatre at the invitation of the Auckland Theatre Company
  • The Big Gay Out in Coyle Park on 14 February
  • Elected representatives and Local Board staff lunch time ride for the Auckland Bike Challenge on 18 February 
  • Auckland Philharmonia Grand Opening concert at the Auckland Town Hall on 18 February at the invitation of APO
  • Lantern Festival opening function at Auckland Museum on 19 February
  • Opening of Parnell Trust’s new offices in the Jubilee building, Parnell on 23 February
  • Grey Lynn Business Association networking drinks
  • Blessing for the Board’s new offices at 52 Swanson Street on 25 February
  • The Board supported Myers Park Medley on 27 February 
  • Official party at the Citizenship ceremony in the Town Hall on 29 February
Members of the Waitemata Local Board and Local Services staff on a lunchtime bike ride for the Auckland Bike Challenge
Members of the Waitemata Local Board and Local Services staff on a lunchtime bike ride for the Auckland Bike Challenge