Ordinary Meeting of Council. 6 June Appendices

Transcription

1 Ordinary Meeting of Council 6 June 2018 Appendices

2 Submitters being Heard

3 Submitter No 17 Ride Southland Governance Group

4 To: Long Term Plan Environment Southland P O Box Invercargill May 2018 TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN RE: Submission to the proposed variations to the Environment Southland Long Term Plan Consultation Document On behalf of the Ride Southland Governance Group, established mid-2017 to administer and implement the regional Southland Cycling Strategy on behalf of the regional/district councils in Southland, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of cycling as a regional priority. The strategy was developed in recognition of the importance of a regional approach to promoting connected, safe and high quality cycling opportunities for Southland residents and visitors. The Ride Southland Governance Group includes representatives from the Southland District Council, Invercargill City Council, Gore District Council, Environment Southland, Department of Conservation, New Zealand Transport Authority and three community representatives. The Southland Cycling Strategy was developed by a steering group with the initial draft approved by the Governance Group in The Strategy has been refined to form the basis of an NZTA endorsed business case to be used in further program business case development for regionally supported projects. The strategy is currently going through the Council adoption process. A stocktake of current and future cycling opportunities for Southland is currently underway and will include the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, the Bluff to Invercargill cycle trail, an extensive Invercargill City Council cycling network, Gore District Council cycle network, the Fiordland Trails Trust cycle trail which connects Te Anau to Manapouri which had approx. 37,000 people cycling the trail in 2016 and with plans to extend the trail to the Te Anau Downs and other trails and tracks available within the Southland Region. Further a network of Heartland Rides have been proposed by the New Zealand Transport Agency to connect existing trail in Southland and will form part of the stocktake. The Ride Southland Governance group wishes to makes the following comment or request in relation to the proposed variations to the Environment Southland Long Term Plan Consultation Document : Ride Southland requests that the Southland Cycling Strategy is included in your long term plan to acknowledge the support of the formation of the Ride Southland Governance Group and its Vision Statement: To provide quality safe cycling infrastructure and increase cycling participation so that the people of Southland will gain in health, quality of life and appreciative use of their outstanding natural environment. We look forward to hearing from you. Yours faithfully CR Alex Crackett Chair, Ride Southland Governance Group Attachment: Southland Cycling Strategy

5 T DR AF southland cycling strategy Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 1

6 Acknowledgements The Southland Cycling Strategy has been prepared by TRC Tourism Ltd ( on behalf of Venture Southland, Invercargill City Council, Southland District Council and Gore District Council, Environment Southland and Sport Southland. Acknowledgments and recognition of preceding strategies on national and regional level. Authors: Janet Mackay, Dave Bamford, Paul Wilson. Version 2 has been reviewed by the Cycling Governance Group. Disclaimer Any representation, statement, opinion or advice, expressed or implied in this document is made in good faith but on the basis that TRC Tourism are not liable to any person for any damage or loss whatsoever which has occurred or may occur in relation to that person taking or not taking action in respect of any representation, statement or advice referred to in this document. In association and consultation with: 2 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 2

7 Table Of Content EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 BACKGROUND PURPOSE OF THE CYCLING STRATEGY HOW THE DRAFT STRATEGY WAS DEVELOPED PLANNING CONTEXT WHAT TYPES OF CYCLING DOES IT APPLY TO? VISION FOR CYCLING IN SOUTHLAND VISION STATEMENT GUIDING PRINCIPLES CYCLING CONTEXT CYCLING BY NEW ZEALAND RESIDENTS TOURISM CONTEXT CYCLE TOURISM Cycle Tourism Trends 3.4 SOUTHLAND STRATEGIC CYCLING ISSUES 16 Who are New Zealand s cycle tourists? What cycle tourists do in New Zealand Competitor cycling destinations CURRENT CYCLING IN SOUTHLAND 4.1 WHERE AND HOW PEOPLE CYCLE 4.2 CYCLING EVIDENCE - A CASE FOR CHANGE Safety Information Community Participation 4.3 COMMUTER CYCLING RECREATIONAL CYCLING 4.4 CYCLE TOURISM 4.5 COMPETITIVE AND EVENT CYCLING THE WAY FORWARD MAIN APPROACH RIDE SOUTHLAND GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE DECISION MAKING CRITERIA RISK REGISTER FUNDING FRAMEWORK DELIVERY STRATEGY OUTCOMES IMPLEMENTATION PARTNERS 41 APPENDIX A. PLANNING CONTEXT 43 APPENDIX B. CASE STUDIES OF NZ CYCLING DESTINATIONS 47 APPENDIX C. SURVEY OF SOUTHLAND CYCLISTS 49 APPENDIX D. SOUTHLAND CYCLING AUDIT 51 APPENDIX E. STRATEGIES AND ACTION 59 APPENDIX F. SOUTHLAND CYCLING STRATEGIC CASE 72 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 3

8 Executive Summary VISION STATEMENT Our aim is to improve cycling safety and participation so that the people of Southland and our visitors will gain in health, quality of life and appreciative use of their outstanding natural environment. Cycling opportunities will contribute to Southland s socio-economic and population development by increasing the attractiveness of the region as a family friendly place to live and visit. CYCLING OVERVEIW Southland has one of the greatest potentials for cycling participation. This strategy looks to place appropriate Governance and frameworks around those opportunities to support their growth and development. Investment in cycling, be it further infrastructure, coordination or events must be made in a prudent and well considered approach which can demonstrate it is sustainable and can show achievable outcomes. Councils and funders must have confidence in investment and see the contribution to their stakeholders and the community. Against these challenging opportunities, this strategy has been developed and is being considered for adoption by the stakeholders. WHAT THE STRATEGY DOES Cycling is a popular activity in Southland engaged in by 29% of the region s population, a higher participation rate than the national average. The Southland Cycling Strategy builds on the community s interest in cycling to develop improved cycling opportunities and ensuring benefits to Southland s community through:» improved health through participation in exercise that reduces the ill-health caused sedentary lifestyles» improved liveability through encouraging the community to move around in, congregate and meet people in their neighbourhoods, towns and cities» lifestyle advantages through opportunities for outdoor recreation and sport participation that contribute to making Southland a desirable place to live» provision of a safe, usable and sustainable transport method as part of an integrated land transport system that meets peoples needs and has less impact on the environment» contributing to economic diversification of the region through attraction of cycle tourists and provision of cyclingrelated services.» supporting the development of cycling skills from learning to ride, return riders to enhancing cycling skills of elite riders The Strategy aligns with the New Zealand Government s direction to provide for safe, accessible cycling as a transport mode and recreational and tourism activity providing health, lifestyle and local economic benefits. The Strategy establishes a process for local government, agencies, the community, cycling organisations, the tourism industry and business to develop and invest in cycling opportunities in a consistent, collaborative and sustainable way. The Strategy recognises the different ways people cycle in Southland. It applies four broad categories of cycling - commuter (or utility) cycling, recreational cycling, cycle tourism and competitive and event cycling and the range of cycling styles road cycling, off-road trail cycling, mountain biking (in its different forms) and BMX riding. The document has a number of high level strategies to assist the development of a framework for establishing governance, identifying actions and how to coordinate the community involvement in cycling in a successful and effective way. A key fundamental of the strategy establishes the principle that the 'owner' of any project (being a Council, Agency or Group) is encouraged and supported by the Governance Group but investment decisions are made by those who are paying for them. Cycling Strategy will be followed by the Outcomes Action Plan which will be developed by governance and implementation groups in conjunction with all key stakeholders, to give priorities to programme development. Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 4

9 OPPORTUNITIES FOR SOUTHLAND S RESIDENTS ACROSS THE RANGE OF CYCLING In a survey conducted in 2016, Southland residents indicated they are interested in more investment by councils in cycling improvements in the region. The major issues identified included:» improved road safety for cyclists, including improved cycle lanes or road shoulders for commuting and recreational road riding» more recreational cycling opportunities for families» more amenities and services for cyclists on recreational and tourism road routes and trails» more off-road recreational and tourism trails and completion of trails under development» improved mountain biking opportunities, particularly near urban areas The Strategy aims to communicate with and encourage greater cycling participation in Southland s communities. Southland cycling groups would not be able to deliver an amazing range of initiatives and events without volunteers. Retention and attraction of new volunteers are crucial to maintain and enhance the current state of cycling in Southland. Recreational cycling, whether it be in parks, as a family group or through mountain biking - is a key area with an opportunity to further grow the wealth of existing base activities available in Southland. Exciting opportunities can be created with the Department of Conservation being part of the Governance Group and as their policies are reviewed over time. CYCLE TOURISM Cycle tourism has the potential to bring socio-economic benefits to Southland through increased recreational and holiday opportunities, the economic flow-on effects of visitor expenditure and business and employment opportunities. Southland is at an early stage in the development of cycle tourism. Except for the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail (one of the Great Rides in the New Zealand Cycle Trail) there has been little development of cycling routes with linked products and services that meet the expectations of contemporary cycle visitor markets for accessible cycling experiences of between one and several days in length. The Strategy identifies the opportunity for Southland to develop cycle tourism. It suggests the development opportunity of a small number of high quality, distinctive Southland cycling experiences such as: the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, Heartland Rides (on-road routes), and the shorter Invercargill to Bluff Cycleway and (subject to route approval) the Te Anau to Manapouri Cycleway. This approach will provide a firm foundation for support for cycle tourism development in the longer term. Executive Summary Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 5 5

10 COMPETITIONS AND EVENTS Southland has a strong tradition of cycling competitions and events; including the iconic Tour of Southland road race (now in its 62nd year) together with the SIT Zero Fees Velodrome at Invercargill being a major resource for track cycling competitions and local cycling training and education. The region also offers some unique, small mountain biking events. Southland s competitive cycling focus has been affected by the growth of cycling events throughout New Zealand. The Strategy aims to give support to rejuvenate local and visiting interest in competitive and participative cycling events in Southland through better coordination, an increase in school competitions and the potential of hosting second tier national and international events, a signature event on the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail, development of a Festival of Cycling and improved promotion of events. STRATEGIES FOR IMPROVEMENT Seven main strategies that will be employed to implement the Strategy are detailed as follows: A b c d e f g Improve basic infrastructure to encourage more people to cycle Develop and promote a suite of high quality cycling experiences Implement programmes to encourage people to cycle and raise safety awareness Support community cycling activities and participation-based events Assist the rejuvenation of competitive cycling events Support development of local cycle commissionable tourism products and partnerships Implement strong leadership, communication and cooperation Decision-making criteria are provided to ensure that decisions on improving, consolidating, maintaining and extending Southland s cycle network are sustainable. The benefits of deploying these strategies will be: Improved road user safety Improved community connections and social wellbeing through recreational use Cycling contributing to our economic growth through areas such as tourism THE CORE APPROACH Improve and consolidate current cycling infrastructure and opportunities with an emphasis on safe, enjoyable family-friendly experiences. Encourage more local cycle participation and development of a cycling culture. Provide a small number of high quality cycling experiences with a distinctive Southland character. Over time consider new cycling opportunities that are supported by demonstrated demand and a sound business case. 6 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 6

11 1. Background The Southland Cycling Strategy is a fundamental document for government, the community, cycling organisations, the tourism industry and business at the local, district and regional levels to develop and invest in cycling opportunities in a consistent, collaborative and sustainable way for Southland. It is geared to the specific needs, situations and practicalities in Southland while guiding local stakeholders on developing effective initiatives in their local areas. PURPOSE OF THE CYCLING STRATEGY 1.1 The Strategy applies to the Southland area and covers the Southland District Council, the Gore District Council and the Invercargill City Council. Underlying the Strategy is the aim to utilise improved cycling opportunities to bring multiple benefits to the Southland community through:» improved health through participation in exercise that reduces the ill-health caused by sedentary lifestyles» improved liveability through encouraging the community to move around in, congregate and meet people in their neighbourhoods, towns and cities» lifestyle advantages through opportunities for outdoor recreation and sport participation that contribute to making Southland a desirable place to live» provision of a safe, usable and sustainable transport method as part of an integrated land transport system that meets people's needs and has less impact on the environment» contributing to economic diversification of the region through attraction of cycle tourists and provision of cycling-related services. HOW THE STRATEGY WAS DEVELOPED 1.2 The Southland Cycling Strategy was developed in close consultation with the region s councils, government agencies, cycling organisations and the community. Southland s population, social, economic and tourism situation was analysed and plans for the region s future directions and previous studies on cycling in the region were reviewed. An audit was conducted of the existing cycling infrastructure, services, experiences and organisation in Southland and competitor cycling destinations. Local and visitor cycling markets and their cycling needs and preferences were also analysed to identify the market segments and types of cycling with most potential for the region. Community views and input on directions for cycling were provided through interviews with major stakeholders and community open house sessions. Stakeholders were also invited to comment on a paper setting out a proposed strategic approach to cycling development. The views of Southland s cyclists were sought through an online survey that received 339 responses. The Southland Cycling Strategy aligns with the 2015 Southland Regional Development Strategy, which aims to attract migration, a more varied population demographic mix and more diverse economic development to the region. The proposed improvements in cycling infrastructure and opportunities will improve the region s lifestyle choices and attractiveness for migration, tourism and investment. BENEFITS OF INVESTING IN CYCLING IN NEW ZEALAND COMMUNITIES The New Zealand Transport Agency has compiled evidence from New Zealand and other countries to show that provision of cycling infrastructure leads to increased cycling participation in communities leading to:» improved quality of life and social connection» reduction in travel times, improved traffic flows and reduced council road operational costs» savings on transport for cyclists» attraction of visitors» reduced noise and greenhouse gas emissions» reduction in the incidence of serious illnesses Background Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 11 7

12 PLANNING CONTEXT 1.3 The Southland Cycling Strategy aligns with the New Zealand Government s aims and initiatives to develop safe, accessible cycling as part of an integrated land transport system and as a transport mode and recreational/tourism activity providing health, lifestyle and local economic benefits. More detail on the planning documents related to the Southland Cycling Strategy is provided in Appendix A. NEW ZEALAND GOVERNMENT S CYCLING POLICY Safer cycling throughout New Zealand - New Zealand s Road Safety Strategy and the 2015 Cycling Safety Action Plan Cycling as an attractive urban transport choice - a goal of additional 10 million annual urban cycling trips by 2019 Great Rides the 23 rides in the New Zealand Cycle Trail (Nga Haerenga) developed with government and local funding from 2009 Heartland Rides on-road cycle touring routes on existing roads identified by shoulder width, traffic speed and traffic volume A connected cycling network of urban cycling infrastructure, Great Rides and Heartland Rides Combined government and local funding for cycling improvements at the national level through the Urban Cycleways Programme and under the National Land Transport Programme. The Southland Cycling Strategy looks to identify cycling development priorities that will assist the region in applying for government funding. The National Land Transport Programme provides funding for improved transport throughout New Zealand, including for on-road cycling and off-road cycling trails. The programme operates through Regional Land Transport Plans (developed by Regional Transport Committees) which supports projects submitted by TLAs for inclusion in for funding in the National Land Transport Programme (NLTP) for to the New Zealand Transport Agency. Southland is part of the Otago Southland Regional Land Transport Committee; which meets jointly as a more effective and efficient way of inter-regional transport planning. There may be opportunities to develop Southland cycling projects for submission in the following round of funding for Consideration of specific cycling opportunities in Southland has previously occurred under the Invercargill Walking and Cycling Strategy 2010, the March 2015 Recreational Walking and Cycling Strategy for Invercargill and the 2014 Te Anau and Environs Cycling Opportunities Study. The Otago Southland Regional Land Transport Plans (developed under the National Land Transport Programme) emphasise:» provision for safe cycling in new road construction and were this is necessary for safety» building of separate cycleways for commuting or other economic purposes where safety of cyclists is at risk» expanding and connecting the cycling network» provision of bike racks in town centres and bike carriers on urban buses» safe connections between different parts of the New Zealand Cycle Trail. The developments and recommendations in these strategies and studies have been taken into account in developing the Southland Cycling Strategy. Conservation lands form a large part of Southland and are important natural assets and recreational destinations for the region s residents and visitors. Mountain biking on management trails occurs on some conservation lands and there has been interest in extending and improving these opportunities. The Department of Conservation has developed a draft Southland Murihiki Conservation Management Strategy indicating locations that may be considered for mountain biking access and facilities subject to meeting identified policies. Mountain biking in the Fiordland National Park, the region s largest national park and an iconic visitor destination, is restricted to some management trails under the Park s statutory management plan. The draft Southland Murihiki Conservation Management Strategy indicates that the question of mountain biking access and development of new mountain biking trails will be considered in the review of the management plan. Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 8

13 WHAT TYPES OF CYCLING DOES IT APPLY TO? 1.4 The Southland Cycling Strategy focusses on four broad categories of cycling activity as below and also acknowledges that there is cycling activity on sealed roads and off road trails; using different types of bicycles and seeing increased usage of e-bikes. COMMUTER CYCLING On-road and trail cycling as a means of transport to work, school, education institutions, shops and other places primarily in and near urban areas. Commuter cycling infrastructure can also be used for recreational cycling. Also known as Utility Cycling. RECREATIONAL CYCLING Cycling by Southland residents during their leisure time across the different types of cycling CYCLE TOURISM Participation in cycling of various types by domestic and international visitors to Southland, whether as an element of a wider trip or a trip that focusses on a specific cycling experience COMPETITIVE AND EVENT CYCLING Cycling sporting events at the local, regional, national and international level that encourage local cycling participation and/or attract participants and spectators from elsewhere. This category also includes non-competitive participative events in which people participate for the social experience, personal challenge or the charitable aims of the event. Within these broad categories, cyclists undertake a range of different cycling styles which have their specific cycling markets and experience, bicycle types and infrastructure needs. The Southland Cycling Strategy aims to cater for the range of cycling styles which fall within the broad umbrellas of road cycling, trail cycling, mountain biking and BMX riding. Background Ride Southland Cycling - Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 13 9

14 Road Cycling Occurs on sealed roads or other sealed surfaces COMMUTING Cycling as a means of transport to work, school, education institutions, shops, recreation destinations and places of social interaction and other everyday life purposes. RECREATIONAL The most popular form of road cycling undertaken for fitness, leisure and social purposes by a range of markets individuals, families, social groups. Recreational road cycling also includes non- competitive organised events (often held for charity or in association with competitive events) where the emphasis is on the individual challenge, the journey and social interaction. These events can attract both local and visiting cyclists and contribute to cycle tourism in a destination. ROAD TOURING Travelling and exploring by road bike for leisure or holiday purposes on roads or sealed paths for a few hours, a day or a multi-day trip. Participants may use road bikes or hybrid bikes that provide more stability for carrying equipment. ROAD RACING AND TRAINING High speed competition and training by local and visiting amateur and professional elite cyclists at a range of competitive levels. Races are held over a range of distances and may involve road closures or traffic regulation. Informal or organised training often involves groups of riders who use pre-determined routes. TRACK RACING AND TRAINING Competitive racing and training on purpose-built indoor or outdoor velodromes using purpose-built bicycles. 14 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 10

15 Off-Road Cycling OFF-ROAD TRAIL CYCLING Off-road trail cycling on cycle paths, rail trails, and management trails in parks and forestry areas for recreational or tourism purposes. Riders may use hybrid bicycles or mountain bikes depending on the surface and terrain. Trail cycling covers a range of experiences from a few hours, to a day to multi-day trips and a range of fitness levels from trails with gentle gradients to demanding cycles in remote and steep terrain. Recreational and tourism cycle trail experiences (such as the New Zealand Cycle Trail, Nga Haerenga) have been developed in many countries and often include supporting accommodation and other services. Part of the routes covered by these trails may include unsealed and sealed vehicle roads. Photo by Ben Arthur MOUNTAIN BIKING Involves riding a purpose-built mountain bike on specially-constructed mountain bike trails (often in bike parks or trail networks) or on other offroad trails such as management trails. Mountain bike parks or trail networks often contain trails for a range of riding types and difficulty levels. The different sub-types or disciplines of mountain biking have their own competitive events. Mountain bike touring - The softer end of the mountain biking spectrum that crosses over with off-road trail touring and cross-country riding. It involves travel on cycle trails or management trails for a few hours, day trips or multi-day trips. CROSS COUNTRY Cross Country A broad type of recreational or competitive mountain biking on relatively flat terrain on purpose-built single-track, management trails or 4WD trails. All-mountain riding is a more recent evolution of cross-country riding on more varied, technical and steep terrain using specialised bikes with dual, longer travel suspension. DOWNHILL (OR GRAVITY) RIDING Recreational and competitive riding downhill on purpose-built tracks (with a range of difficulty ratings) with an emphasis on speed and technical challenges such as jumps, berms and drops. Downhill bikes are not designed to be ridden uphill and downhill facilities usually incorporate lift access or a shuttle service to transport riders to the beginning a descent. Downhilling has evolved into different racing disciplines including four cross and dual slalom which involve several riders on one track or parallel tracks. DIRT JUMPING Technical riding on specialised bikes (allied with BMX bikes) usually in purpose-built facilities over a series of mounds and jumps. Pump track cycling is an evolution of dirt jumping and consists of riders generating initial speed on a downhill run to carry them through the course of jumps and berms without pedaling. BMX Technical riding over obstacles in purpose-built facilities. An urbanbased activity popular with young people. Background Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 15 11

16 2. Vision for Cycling in Southland VISION STATEMENT 2.1 Our aim is to improve cycling safety and participation in Southland. GUIDING PRINCIPLES 2.2 The vision will be guided by the following principles: 1 Quality cycling experiences A best-practice approach will be taken to developing and delivering cycling experiences of a high standard that are suited to the needs and preferences of Southland residents and visitor markets. 2 Inclusive, accessible family-friendly cycling The different demography, styles, skill and fitness levels of Southland s cyclists and cycle visitors will be catered for in the provision of cycling opportunities. 3 Cycling infrastructure that provides meaningful and workable connections Completed cycling routes and trails will provide linked cycling connections to the places residents and visitors cycle. 4 Fit-for-purpose infrastructure and facilities Cycling routes, trails, signage and other facilities will be designed to function effectively and safely for, and meet the needs of, the type and number of users. 6 Encouragement of participation in cycling Communities will be encouraged to participate in cycling through coordination of events, activities and opportunities. 7 Sustainable cycling Cycling infrastructure and opportunities will be developed and managed in a way that is compatible with protecting Southland s natural and cultural values and the quality of its natural environment. 8 Socio-economic benefits for Southland Cycling will be developed in a way that improves healthy recreation, lifestyle and economic opportunities for local communities, assists in attracting people to live in Southland and contributes to the economic benefits of tourism in the region 9 Outcomes that are achievable Cycling proposals to be supported will need to be realistic and meet business case considerations. Decisions on development of upgraded or new infrastructure and facilities will be made by the council owning the infrastructure 5 Safe cycling Measures will be developed to assess how safe cycling is being achieved on roads and trails. 10 Links to national and regional cycling transport objectives Cycling initiatives will contribute to Strategic development plans, Regional Land Transport Programmes, Activity Plans and Council's long term plan to provide safe, connected, convenient and reliable cycling journeys. 16 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 12

17 3. Cycling Context Cycling in Southland takes placed in the wider context of cycling demand by New Zealand and local residents and by domestic and international visitors to New Zealand and the region. CYCLING BY NEW ZEALAND RESIDENTS 3.1 Cycling is an increasingly popular sport and active recreation activity for New Zealand adults (people aged 16 years and over) 1. More people cycle in Southland proportionally than in New Zealand on average. In 2013/14 2 an estimated 29% of Southland residents (abut 26,000 adults) cycle at least once a year compared with 24.8% in New Zealand as a whole (about 823,000 adults). This data covers the range of cycling types, including mountain biking. In New Zealand overall cycling is the third most popular activity after walking and swimming (see Figure 1). Cycling participation has increased by around 3% since 2007/08 when an estimated 22% of New Zealanders cycled. This is the highest increase rate among the most popular sport and recreation activities 3. In the same period participation in walking and swimming decreased by 5.9% and 3.9% respectively. Cycling is popular among all age groups up to age 74, especially in the middle age and older age groups between 35 and 74 years. Most active recreation by New Zealanders takes place on an informal basis on their own or with others. About 22.2% participate in regular club competitions while 8.8% and 7.9% respectively take part in short-term organised competitions or events. 1 Sport New Zealand (2015). Sport and Active Recreation in the Lives of New Zealand Adults. 2013/14 Active New Zealand Survey Results. Wellington, Sport New Zealand. 2 Sport New Zealand (2015). Sport and Active Recreation Regional Profile: Southland Region Findings from the 2013/14 Active New Zealand Survey. Wellington: Sport New Zealand. 2 Note that there was some variation in data collection between the two survey with gardening being taken out Cycling Context Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 17 13

18 RECREATIONAL ACTIVITY Cycling was the second most popular physical recreation activity in Southland after walking (48.9%) (see Figure 2). About 19.7% of Southland adults participated in at least one sport or recreation event in , a similar rate to all New Zealand. An estimated 2.9% of Southland residents participated in bike events, compared with 2% for all New Zealand. Among non-cyclists in Southland, 7% were interested in trying cycling. This was the second highest level of interest compared with other activities after golf (8.3%). Figure 2: Southland participation in sport and active recreation, 2013/14. SOUTHLAND - POPULATION AND DEMOGRAPHIC In Southland the demand for cycling in general and the different cycling styles will be linked to regional population trends and demographics. At June 2015 Southland was estimated to have a population of 96,300 people 2.3% of New Zealand s population. The population is concentrated in the south east in the urban areas of Invercargill (50,300 people or 51.7% of Southland s population), Gore (9,910), Winton (2,310), Te Anau (2,000), Bluff (1,870) and Riverton (1,510) 4. About 30% of Southland s population lives in rural areas - twice the national average for New Zealand s rural population. Most of Southland s population is of European origin (78.6%) but has been gradually diversifying. Southland s Maori population has been increasing and at 11.8% of the Southland population is the largest Maori population on the South Island 5. As generally in New Zealand, Southland s population structure is showing an increase in older age groups. Around 21% of the population (19,929 people) is aged 65 years and older slightly higher than the New Zealand average of 20%. The distribution of other age groups in Southland is 21% aged 0 to 17 years (25,158 people), 24% aged 20 to 39 years (22,005 people) and 28% aged between 40 and 64 (26,253 people).» Southland s population structure and future population trends (including immigration and increases in the numbers of older residents) are important for the types of cycling opportunities and infrastructure sought by local people.» With the population distributed fairly evenly between age groups a range of different cycling opportunities is desirable. 3 Sport New Zealand (2015). Sport and Active Recreation Regional Profile: Southland Region Findings from the 2013/14 Active New Zealand Survey. Wellington: Sport New Zealand. 4 Statistics New Zealand. Subnational Population Estimates 30 June Southland Mayoral Forum (October 2015). Southland Regional Development Strategy. 18 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 14

19 SOUTHLAND STRATEGIC CYCLING ISSUES 3.2 The strategic issues for Southland have been considered and using the Governments Investment Logic Mapping process, three strategic problem statements were identified: 1. URBAN SAFETY Lack of cycle infrastructure and poor road user behaviour in urban areas, particularly Invercargill, results in risks to personal safety and defers cycle use. 2. REGIONAL ACCESSIBILITY Limited number of inter-connected cycle routes and amenities in the region restricts cycling opportunities for commuters, school travel, recreational users and tourists. 3. REGIONAL COORDINATION Lack of coordination of cycle initiative across the region limits social and economic opportunities for Southland. The full mapping documentation is included in Appendix E. The benefits anticipated from investment would address the problems by providing: BENEFIT Improved Road User Safety Improved Community Connectivity and Social Well-being Contribution to economic growth and productivity OBJECTIVE To achieve a declining trend of cycling related crashes on Southland roads by 2025 To increase the number of completed and connected cycle routes in Southland in 2025 To achieve an increasing trend in cycling participation for Southland residents & tourists by In context, Southland communities should make informed investment, decisions which would address issues but also bring value (economics and/or social) back to the province. These investments must link and contribute with other strategies including Southland Regional Development (SORD), Tourism Strategies and Land Transport (Roading) Programmes to deliver benefits which can be measured. Improving cycle safety is acknowledged as a key issue and either factually or perceived as a limitation to increasing cycling participation. Increasing tourism cycling in an economic generator and will contribute to growing the Southland economy. Developing and connecting to existing tourism products will provide journeys for visitors and bring associated growth with services and amenities needed to service those customers. Coordinating cycling actions with all the Southland Communities through shared initiatives has been proven from other activities to be effective at both a local level and regionally. Increasing participation through links existing original activities and having an agreed focus on deliverable will most effectively the somewhat limited resources for Southland given our small population and wide geographic area. Councils are now seeking to have a more active participation in both regional accessibility and accountability for cycling. Cycling Context Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 21 15

20 TOURISM CONTEXT 3.3 Development of cycling in Southland is taking place in a growing New Zealand and Southland visitor economy. The number and characteristics of visitors to Southland will influence demand for cycling experiences in the region. Southland is experiencing increases in expenditure and guest nights from both domestic and international visitors. While Southland Regional Tourism Organisation (RTO) area receives primarily domestic visitors (nearly half from the within the Soutland region), the more sparseley populated Fiordland RTO (with its iconic destinations of Fiordland National Park, Milford South and several 'Great Walks') has a high proportion of international visitors. SOUTHLAND VISITORS 8/9 EXPENDITURE $528 An estimated 2.8 million overnight and day visitors in Southland RTO 68.2% Domestic Visitors Fiordland RTO 70.8% International Visitors (due to iconic destinations) Increasing visitor spending in the region Total regional visitor spending in the year ending July 2016 CYCLE TOURISM 3.4 Cycle tourism is a global phenomenon that is expanding as a way to travel while on holiday or as an activity to undertake among other holiday activities. These trends will influence the cycling expectations of Southland s visitors. Cycle Tourism Trends Several factors have contributed to the growth of cycle tourism across a range of markets and demographics:» Increasingly popularity of cycling for recreation and development of cycling cultures» Increased provision of cycling infrastructure and routes, including specific routes and cycling trails to attract tourism. Well-promoted and packaged soft adventure cycling routes and trails with associated attractions, accommodation and services are now an established part of cycle tourism in North America, the UK, Europe and Australia and have been developed in New Zealand through the New Zealand Cycle Trail» A growth in specialised cycling tour products.» Promotion of and investment in cycle tourism by governments and communities as the economic benefits of cycle tourism have become evident. Cycle tourists tend to stay longer in an area and hence spend more in that area than vehicle based travelers» Development of cycle-friendly services by businesses and communities to encourage cycle tourism visitation to destinations and improve the cycling experience (see Scotland s Cyclists Welcome Scheme example)» The popularity of mountain biking and development of purpose-built mountain biking facilities which attract riders due to the quality of riding» A wide range of cycling competitions and participatory events which attract both participants and spectators» The trend to more experiential travel (as opposed to mass tourism) where travelers seek to immerse themselves in new places and cultures. 20 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 16

21 Who are New Zealand s cycle tourists? Cycle tourism has increased in New Zealand as a whole and is being targeted as a visitor growth area by the New Zealand Government in its marketing and infrastructure development. This is an opportunity for Southland. For the purposes of New Zealand s visitor data collection cycle tourists are defined as domestic and international visitors who participate in cycling at least once during a trip. They include people who visit an area for a specific cycling journey or event and people who cycle on a trip when an opportunity presents itself. There is little recent relevant data on New Zealand s cycle tourists. The latest detailed analysis of international and domestic cycle tourism in New Zealand was conducted in and updated for international cycle tourists in the 5 years from 2008 to 2012 in In 2008 New Zealand received an estimated 314,900 domestic cycle tourists (who came mainly from New Zealand s largest population centres) and 42,100 international cycle tourist (dominated by visitors from Australia, North America and Continental Europe). In that year cycle tourists comprised about 1% of all domestic visitors and 4 % of all international holidaymakers. It was estimated in 2008 that road cycling comprised about 54% of international cycle tourism and 44% of domestic cycle tourism, while mountain biking comprised about 46% of international cycle tourism and 56% of domestic cycle tourism. The most popular areas for cycling by international visitors are the Auckland, Canterbury, Queenstown, West Coast, Wellington, Rotorua, Nelson, Lake Taupo and Lake Wanaka areas. Domestic visitors are primarily attracted to cycle in the Rotorua, Auckland and Canterbury, Hurunui, Queenstown, Lake Taupo areas. Emerging changes towards more Free Independent Travelers in the large Chinese source market, suggest that cycling experiences may be appealing to more visitors from China in the future 13 What cycle tourists do in New Zealand Cycle tourism in New Zealand consists of:» Specific multi-day cycle rides on roads or trails» Small guided or self-guided cycling groups with pre-arranged accommodation and supported by a transport supplier who also transports the luggage. Such boutique trips may last up to 7 to 10 days» Individuals or small groups undertaking self-supporting cycling journeys (road, trail and mountain bike trails) carrying their equipment on their bikes» Day and overnight visitors undertaking mountain biking at a mountain bike facility or trails network» Domestic and international travellers who undertake a cycling experience as one of several experiences during their trip» Day visitors who undertake a road or trail cycle experience» Participants and spectators at cycling events. For example the the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge, New Zealand s largest cycling event with both competitive and non-competitive elements, attracts over 10,000 participants and additional spectators, with over 90% of participants from outside the area. The New Zealand Government has made a major investment in cycle trail tourism through the New Zealand Cycle Trail (Nga Haerenga) concept which was initiated in The New Zealand Cycle Trail is intended to be a worldclass network of 23 multi-day cycle trails (or Great Rides ) throughout the country with linked accommodation, services, shuttle transport and attractions. 11 New Zealand Government (2009). Tourist Activity Cycle tourism. Tourism Sector Profile Series B5, September Tourism New Zealand (2013), Tourist Special Interest Cycling, April 2013; Tourism New Zealand website, Special Interest Cycling and Mountain Biking, 15 June 2015, Cycling Context Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 23 17

22 Figure 3: Nga Haerenga The NZ Cycle Trail existing and potential routes 17 Cycling destinations Two of New Zealand s most successful cycling destinations for domestic and international visitors Otago and Queenstown are located in regions close to Southland (see Appendix B for descriptions of the Otago Central Rail Trail and the development of trails at Queenstown). Both these destinations have developed through substantial collaborative effort of many parties. The Otago Central Rail Trail gains its appeal from its access to spectacular scenery, easy cycling suited to a range of markets and variety of linked activities and attractions that offer a highly immersive experience. The Queenstown trail network owes its success to its location in an iconic visitor destination and the wide variety of quality trail and mountain biking experiences. 17 Source: Cycling Context Ride Southland Cycling - Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 25 18

23 4. Current Cycling in Southland WHERE AND HOW PEOPLE CYCLE IN SOUTHLAND 4.1 This section describes the types of cycling that occurs in Southland, where it occurs, the needs and preferences of Southland s cyclists and cycling markets and evidence upon which investment can be considered. The cycling survey conducted during the development of this Strategy provided insight into the places Southland residents cycle and their needs, preferences and concerns. The outcomes of the survey are summarised in Appendix C. The main cycling routes, trails, events and services in Southland are summarised in the following sections and in Appendix D. As shown in Figure 4, cycling in Southland and neighbouring regions (as generated by the 2015 Strava Heat Map 20 ) is concentrated around population centres and major trail and road cycling routes. Figure 4: 2015 cycling patterns in Southland and nearby districts from Strava Heat Map CYCLING EVIDENCE A case for change 4.2 WHAT SOUTHLAND S CYCLISTS WANT 2016 Southland Cycling Survey To support any investment decision, sufficient evidence needs to be available to inform a case for change. In this context, safety based data can add to the value of how safe are we cycling whilst participation information provides valuable intelligence in what the community is doing, its interest and growth expectations and the value it brings to the region. 20 Sourced on Current Cycling in Southland Ride Southland Cycling - Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 27 19

24 SAFETY INFORMATION Road safety information is sourced from the New Zealand Transport Agency Crash Analysis System (CAS) These records of crashes involving cyclists are for a period from 1997 to Additionally NZTA also prepares the Community at Risk Register to rank different communities around NZ with regard to selected road safety risks of which is considered in this strategy. This register looks to highlight those communities which are over-represented in terms of road safety risk. This process highlights sources of disproportional risk. The source information is again the CAS data (as above) and uses a rolling five year period of fatal and serious injury crash information. The calculations of exposure to risk is based on 100 million vehicle kilometres travelled (100MVKT) for travel and for cyclists and pedestrians, million hours of travel from the MOT Household Travel Survey. Invercargill is highlighted as being significantly higher risk compared to other districts. Cyclist involved 2017 Register PERSONAL RISK Ranking Standard Deviation COLLECTIVE RISK PERSONAL RISK COLLECTIVE RISK DSI/Mhrs Territorial Authority 5yr AVG DSI DSI/Mhrs Road Safety Regions 5yr AVG DSI 189 Invercargill City 1 STDEV 3 4 NORTHLAND 3 30 Kapiti Coast District 2 7 AUCKLAND Grey District 1 8 WAIKATO Taupo District 0.5 STDEV 3 9 BAY OF PLENTY 8 17 Westland District 0 6 TARANAKI 5 16 Auckland Urban Central 22 3 MANAWATU WANGANUI 8 15 Rotorua District 2 10 GISBORNE 2 15 Queenstown Lakes District 4 7 HAWKE'S BAY 8 15 Nelson City 5 7 WELLINGTON Tauranga City 4 8 TASMAN NELSON MARLBOROUGH 8 11 Waitomo District 0 16 WEST COAST 2 11 Whakatane District 1 2 CANTERBURY New Plymouth District 4 7 OTAGO Hastings District 5 63 SOUTHLAND 3 10 Hamilton City 7 10 Gisborne District 2 7 NATIONAL Dunedin City 9 9 Buller District MEAN 0 9 Auckland Urban West 4 8 Hauraki District 1 8 Opotiki District 0 8 Wairoa District 0 8 Thames Coromandel District 1 8 Christchurch City 35 8 Auckland Urban North 6 8 Waipa District 2 7 Wellington City 14 7 Napier City 2 7 Waikato District 2 6 Far North District 1 6 Wanganui District 2 6 South Taranaki District 1 It is recognised that having reliable and up to date information is key to ensuring robust investment decisions to be made and is an area where further data sourcing can occur and be validated. Data utilised from CAS utilised only information gathered by the NZ Police for Death and Serious Injuries. Some further investigation has been undertaken through work by the Otago Regional Council (ORC) which looked to utilise other datasets such as ACC, Hospital and Community records to better understand the extent of risk and safety. It is recognised that CAS is known to under report the number of injuries (minor particularly) compared to actual injuries which are often attendances at hospitals or doctors. Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 20

25 COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION A cycling survey was undertaken in 2016 to assist with the strategy development. WHAT SOUTHLAND S CYCLISTS WANT 2016 Southland Cycling Survey 83% of respondents considered that investment in cycling could lead to community benefits 81% agreed cycling was a good investment for councils 15% of respondents cycled regularly for transport, though over 60% thought it cycling was a viable form of transport. Most respondents agreed with council investment in cycling. Road safety was a major concern, with strong support for improved cycle lanes or road shoulders in urban and rural areas. Recreational and tourism road routes and trails need more amenities and services, especially toilets, drinking water, camping, accommodation and cafes. There was support for more recreational/tourism trails, including trails suitable for families. There is a need for improved mountain biking opportunities near urban areas where most of Southland s mountain bikers ride. A greater range of difficulty levels (including for families and young riders) and better trail maintenance is sought by mountain bikers especially at existing facilities. Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 21

26 COMMUTER CYCLING 4.3 As elsewhere in New Zealand, commuter (also known as utility) cycling in Southland is more popular in urban areas than in rural places. Due to the general lack of traffic congestion the time benefits that accrue to cycling commuters in larger cities are limited in Southland where the benefits of commuting by bicycle centre around health, financial and environmental benefits. Some cycling groups consulted indicated that there is a need to educate drivers on safe driving with cyclists and to promote cycling safety in schools. In the 2013 Census, 813 (1.8%) Southland residents chose cycling as their main means of travel to work, a decrease from 1,029 (2.4%) in This compares with a New Zealand average of 2.6% in main urban areas and 1.7% in rural centres. Cycling to and from work is most popular in Invercargill (2%) followed by Gore (1.6%) and Southland District (1.4%). While over 60% of respondents to the 2016 Southland cycling survey agreed that cycling for transport was viable in the region, only 15% of respondents indicated they cycled regularly (more than once a month) for transport. All Southland territorial areas have seen a small decline in the proportion of people choosing cycling as their main means of travel to work. The rate of cycling to work is relatively static across New Zealand. Cycling to school has declined significantly in Southland over the years. To some extent this has been replaced by the use of scooters. Observations of a sample of schools suggest that less than 10% of primary school students arrive at school by bike and 10% to 20% arrive by scooter. The introduction of electric power-assisted bicycles (E- bikes) is improving the accessibility of cycling, particularly for older cyclists. E-bikes also have advantages for commuter cycling by reducing effort and enabling commuters to avoid wearing sports clothing when cycling to work. The number of E-bikes is increasing but is still relatively low given their higher cost. Invercargill The Invercargill City Council has developed a network on on-road cycle lanes (in particular from east to west across the city). About 80% of this proposed on-road cycle lane network is complete. Cycle tracks developed by Environment Southland on the flood banks make a useful contribution to commuter and recreation cycling. The cycle lane between Oreti Beach and the city has potential as a commuter and recreation/tourism route but needs significant improvement to encourage safe and popular use. Facilities for bicycle storage is provided in a number of areas including the inner city, library and pool recreational facilities. Further provision of storage facilities by Council is in the design and approval stages. The airport terminal does not include any facilities for cyclists. Southland Area In the other major towns of the region, cycling facilities are limited and roads have not been generally designed with consideration for the needs of cyclists. Increasing traffic volumes related to tourism and the dairy industry place cyclists at higher risk on some State Highways and arterial roads. While some recent road improvement projects in the region have considered the safety needs of cyclists, further improvement is needed to encourage cyclists to use them. 21 Statistics New Zealand (2015) Census QuickStats about Transport and Communications. 28 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 22

27 Commuter Cycling Market Market Needs & Preferences Issues Identified in Southland 22 Opportunities & Barriers Local commuters Safe, accessible and connected on-road and trail routes for cycling to work, school and other daily activities. Bike racks and other facilities (such as storage, showers) at destinations. Road safety is a major concern - Around 56% of survey respondents were concerned about the safety of cycling on urban roads. Southland s current and potential commuter cyclists seek:» more or better designed cycle lanes in Invercargill and other places» addressing of cycling safety issues at certain hot spots» identification of safe road routes» safe linkages along cycling routes and between cycle lanes and cycle paths» development of motorist and cyclist safety awareness» more bike racks and storage facilities at destinations, including changing and showering facilities at workplaces. Future on-road and off-road infrastructure improvements required to address safety and encourage more commuter cycling in Invercargill and other towns need to be examined further and prioritised. Funding resources are limited. Proposals need to be developed to take advantage of funding programmes such as the Urban Cycleways Programme and the National Land Transport Programme. Cycling programmes for school children may assist in attracting more children to cycle to school and in developing road safety awareness. The Velodrome is a potential resource for such programmes. Continuing cycling awareness programmes/ campaigns aimed at motorists and cyclists will assist in developing safe road practices and a cycling culture. 22 Compiled from the responses to the 2016 cycling survey and consultation with stakeholders. Current Cycling in Southland Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 29 23

28 RECREATIONAL CYCLING Recreational cyclists in Southland include children learning to ride, families riding together, mountain bikers (both cross country and downhill) and road cyclists who engage in cycling for recreation as a non-competitive activity. Organisations such as the Cycling Southland, Southland Mountain Bike Club and Te Anau Cycling Inc. encourage and support both recreational and competitive riding. There are good opportunities for recreational riding within the City of Invercargill given its low topography. As well as on-road opportunities, the city s parks (in particular Queens Park) are well suited to safe beginner and recreational riding for families and the elderly. A network of shared trails within parks offers off-road riding on grade 1 and 2 trails. The stop bank trails developed by Environment Southland are well used by walkers, runners and cyclists. The trail network in Invercargill would benefit from improved signage, removal of barriers (such as gates and bollards) and improved interconnectivity. A trail is being constructed between Invercargill and Bluff but has not been completed. The road route between Invercargill and Bluff is heavily used by cyclists but is considered to be unsafe. The SIT Zero Fees Velodrome provides a venue for some recreational riding including some learn-to-cycle and therapeutic cycling programmes for the young and elderly run by Cycling Southland. The Graeme Cockroft Cycle Park in Invercargill provides a safe location for learning to ride but has restricted access which does not enable casual use by residents. There are many opportunities for road cycling throughout Southland as roads other than the main highways are generally scenic and relatively quiet, though there is truck traffic on main routes. Both casual and formal road cycling occurs throughout Southland with popular excursions being made from Invercargill to the western side of the Oreti River or east towards the Mataura River. In Te Anau road cycling is popular along the Milford Road and from Te Anau to Manapouri returning via The Key. There has been little development of cycle-friendly services and products for recreational riding, although efforts are underway. Southland cyclists have indicated a desire to improve road riding conditions through wider roads, smoother verge surfaces and development of cycle lanes according to the 2016 cycling survey (see below). In Invercargill specialist mountain biking opportunities are provided at Sandy Point (pump track, cross country trails to grade 2 and 3) and Bluff Hill (downhill trails grade 2 to 6 ). These experiences have been provided by the Southland Mountain Biking Club and have received support from the Invercargill City Council. In Te Anau mountain bike trails are provided in Ivon Wilson Park. Some concern has been expressed that these trails are too difficult for the range of potential users 23. A new mountain bike park featuring 10km of singletrack has recently been opened on private land at Perenuka near Te Anau. Mountain bike trails are also present at Croyden Bush (Gore) where a new trail is currently under construction. Informal and remote mountain biking activities occur at Bald Hill (Longwood Forest permit required) and a range of management trails in Fiordland National Park, including the ride to Percy Saddle on Borland Road. Mountain biking also occurs on 4WD tracks and management and forestry trails dispersed throughout Southland, including in the Mavora area and areas north of Mossburn and Lumsden. 23 Personal communication. 30 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 24

29 BMX facilities are provided in Invercargill and Gore and are used both by recreational and competitive riders. An off-road trail between Te Anau and Manapouri (the Te Anau-Manapouri Cycleway) has been proposed to offer recreational riding opportunities for locals as well as visitors. The Fiordland Trails Trust is raising funds for the development of the first stage of this project which will be a grade 1 and 2 shared trail from Te Anau along the Waiau River to the Rainbow Reach carpark 24. Part of the remainder to the proposed trail route passes through part of Fiordland National Park and requires approval from the Department of Conservation. However, under the current Fiordland National Park Management Plan, cycling is not permitted in this section of the national park. Recreational Cycling Market Market Needs & Preferences Issues Identified in Southland 25 Opportunities & Barriers Recreational Road Cyclists Safe and accessible routes for a range of cycling levels and distances based around or starting from population centres. Attractive, cycle- friendly destinations with cafés and other attractions suitable for a short, half-day to day excursion or relaxing after a fitness/training ride. Good information on cycling routes through online and social media sources. Social cycling opportunities. Road safety is a major concern - around 71% of survey respondents were concerned about cycling safety on Southland s roads outside of cities and towns. Wider and smoother road shoulders or cycle lanes on highways and rural roads to improve the cycling experience and safety. Cyclist warning signs on roads. Road works, signage and other infrastructure requirements to address cycling safety and comfort on highways and rural roads need to be examined, prioritised and included in road and other relevant infrastructure work programmes. Funding resources are limited. Proposals need to be developed to take advantage of funding programmes such as the National Land Transport Programme. There is already a range of road cycling routes used by Southland residents. Designation of preferred road cycling routes (with signage and safety improvements) could encourage more road cycling and improve existing cycling experiences. Over time, encouragement of cyclerelated service partners along routes will improve experience and generate more demand. Development of Heartland Rides for tourism (see next section) would be linked to this initiative and would benefit local residents. Accessible online information on cycling routes will assist in informing residents of road cycling routes. More social riding opportunities such as the Tweed Rides may assist in attracting more people to cycle. Cycling programmes for school children, older people and social groups may assist in attracting more people to road cycling. 24 Information sourced from the Fiordland Trails Trust, 25 Compiled from the responses to the 2016 cycling survey and consultation with stakeholders. Current Cycling in Southland Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 31 25

30 Recreational Cycling Market Market Needs & Preferences Issues Identified in Southland 25 Opportunities & Barriers Recreational Trail Cyclists Accessible, wellconnected trails for a range of cycling levels and distances. Includes trails suitable for children, families and older people. Attractive cycle- friendly destinations with cafes and other attractions suitable for a short, half-day to day excursion. Enhancement and improved connections on the Invercargill shared trail network including signage, removal of barriers (such as gates and bollards). Completion of the Invercargill to Bluff Cycleway. Improved cycle trail opportunities near population centres, especially Te Anau and Gore. Completion of the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail and development of linkages to Te Anau and other places. More cycle-friendly amenities along riding routes toilets, shelter, drinking water, cafes. More trails in the region, especially trails suitable for families. Better trail maintenance, including removal of broken glass. Provision of toilets along trails is a major concern, together with access to car parking, shelter, drinking water, signage and trail information. A review of the Invercargill shared trail network is required to identify and prioritise improvements to infrastructure and the cycling experience. City centre rejuvenation in Invercargill may provide opportunities for cycling excursions if cycle-friendly facilities are provided and cycling is promoted. Completion of the Invercargill to Bluff cycleway (including provision of amenities, information and interpretation) will require adequate arrangements for funding and future management and maintenance. Completion of the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail is related to the outcome of a legal challenge. Development of facilities and linked attractions along this trail will provide opportunities for both Southland residents and visitors, but will require resourcing and encouragement. Some residents seek a greater variety of off-road trail experiences closer to population centres. This is likely to require significant investment in trail construction. The level of demand, costs and benefits for such trails will need to be established. Partnerships are desirable to provide cycle- friendly products and services linked to trail riding. Accessible online information on cycle trails will assist in promoting use of trails. 32 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 26

31 Recreational Cycling Market Market Needs & Preferences Issues Identified in Southland 25 Opportunities & Barriers Mountain Bikers Local mountain bikers are often in the young adult to middle age groups. They may include school and youth groups undertaking outdoor education activities. Seek diversity and challenge for each difficulty level. Single-track interconnected trail networks with a range of trail types, difficulty levels and technical challenges, preferably providing at least a day s riding activities to maintain interest. Opportunities for beginners to learn and develop skills. Accessibility from population centres. Trailhead facilities. Where relevant transport (lifts, vehicle shuttles) to the top of downhill rides. Longer endurance riding opportunities (on management trails, singletrack), including in backcountry locations. Greatest demand is for more or improved facilities near population centres (Invercargill, Gore and Te Anau), including a greater variety of difficulty levels and trails suitable for families and younger riders. There is concern over the quality of trail networks. Some survey respondents sought professionally designed, purpose built trails or better maintenance of existing trails. Provision of wash down facilities and toilets at trail networks is desirable. More mountain biking opportunities in Fiordland National Park and other remote places are sought by a smaller numbers of riders. Some riders seek more downhill runs in Southland, and may go to Queenstown or other places for challenging technical riding. Enhancement of the existing mountain biking hubs at Invercargill (Sandy Point and Bluff), Te Anau and Gore has most potential for offering improved riding for a large number of Southland mountain bikers. There is potential for improvement/ additions to these networks if resources are available for professional trail construction, amenities, management and maintenance. Riding programmes for schools, outdoor education, youth and other groups could assist in attracting more young people to participate in mountain biking. Support for and encouragement of volunteer trail maintenance partnerships has potential for improving the resources for trail maintenance. Ways to improve riding opportunities on 4WD tracks and management trails need to be investigated. On public conservation lands (except for Fiordland National Park) potential mountain biking opportunities and assessment criteria are identified by the Department of Conservation in the draft Southland Murihiki Conservation Management Strategy. Investigation of further opportunities in Fiordland National Park is likely to be considered in the review of the Park s management plan. More comprehensive and accessible online information on Southland s mountain biking opportunities is required. Current Cycling in Southland Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 33 27

32 CYCLE TOURISM 4.4 Cycle tourism in Southland has not developed to the same extent as in other parts of New Zealand. Anecdotal information from industry observers suggests that cycle tourism in Southland is in a relatively static state except for mountain biking participation which is increasing. Strong competition comes from the nearby iconic cycling destinations of Central Otago and Queenstown. Currently Southland has some small group and self-supported cyclists who cycle on routes and trails such as the following:» Lumsden to Invercargill road trip (Southland Traverse)» the Te Anau Tuatapere Riverton Invercargill road trip (Southern Scenic Route)» a south-north road route from Balclutha through the Catlins to Invercargill (Catlins Coastal Route)» a backcountry road and trail trip from Queenstown /Lake Wakatipu through Mount Nicholas Station, Von Valley and Mavora Lakes to Te Anau. There has been little development of these routes for cycle tourism through cycle-friendly services and products. The Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau cycling trip is currently the most popular route and receives fewer than 1,000 cyclists a year. Part of this route is included in the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail (ATMCT) which is being developed by the Southland District Council and is part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail. This 180 kilometre trail is a loop which starts at Queenstown and, after a boat crossing of Lake Wakatipu, continues from Mount Nicholas Station up the Von Valley, down the Oreti Valley to Lumsden then to Kingston before returning to Queenstown (see Figure 6). Parts of the trail can also be ridden on day trips. Construction of the ATMCT has been completed except for a section in the Upper Oreti Valley which has received construction consent but which is currently under appeal. A decision on the appeal is expected in The ATMCT is open to cyclists and shuttle bus transport is available for the uncompleted section of the trail. A number of cycle tour and accommodation products is operating along the trail. 34 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 28

33 When completed, it is estimated that the ATMCT will be a significant New Zealand cycle trail attracting up to 12,000 multiday and about 50,000 day cyclists annually within five years of opening26. This trail has the potential to be a significant contributor to Southland s cycling opportunuties. It offers a soft adventure riding experience through varied backcountry valleys with stunning mountain views. The Welcome Rock Trails on the Nevis Range near Garston is a private trail network for mountain biking and hiking that has on-trail bookable private hut and glamping accommodation27. Use of this trail is in the hundreds. Figure 6: Around the Mountains Cycle Trail route More amenities and services are sought along recreational and tourism cycling routes and trails, such as this stop on the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail. Southland s current and potential cycle tourism markets are::»»»» Road Tourers Southland residents, domestic visitors and international visitors (likely to be mainly from Europe) for whom the road journey is an intrinsic part of the visit and a major reason from visiting the region. Holiday and Soft Adventure Trail Cyclists Southland residents, domestic and international visitors seeking an immersive trail experience. They tend to be younger couples and social groups and people in the middle to older age groups. They are likely to come from the main New Zealand population centres and Australia, the UK, the USA and Germany. Patterns of use of the New Zealand Cycle Trail and cycle trails in other countries suggest that most of this market is seeking shorter trail experiences of a day, weekend or 3 to 4 days as opposed to extended trips. Location-based Holiday Cyclists A diverse group of visitors for whom a cycling experience (short road, trail or mountain bike experiences generally up to a day) is one of several activities undertaken at a destination, adding to the diversity of the holiday and providing an experience expressing the character of the destination. They range from experienced cyclists to people who rarely cycle. Mountain Bikers Southland residents, domestic and international mountain bikers seeking a special mountain biking experience different from other places or with a reputation for challenge and/or a distinctive landscape. They are likely to come from the main New Zealand population centres, Australia and possibly Europe and North America. They are often knowledgeable about mountain biking destinations and well connected to other mountain bikers. 26 TRC Tourism Pty Ltd (2014). Around the Mountains Cycle Trail potential market demand. Prepared for Southland District Council 27 Current Cycling in SouthlandRide Southland Strategy 35 Southland -Cycling Southland Cycling Strategy 29

34 Cycle Tourist Market Market Needs & Preferences Issues Identified in Southland 28 Opportunities & Barriers Road Tourers May be on short to extended cycling journeys. Safe roads. Routes with a variety of scenery, terrain, cycle- friendly facilities, food, attractions and accommodation. Good online and digital information sources. Bicycle shops. Southland is not currently perceived as a major road touring destination. While it has attractive and varied scenery, it is disadvantaged by its relative geographical isolation, perception of weather and competition from more developed, cycle-friendly destinations in New Zealand. Development of Heartland Rides, signage, safety measures, promotion, information and cycle-friendly products, accommodation options and services would be needed to attract more road touring visitors to the region. Improved connections between entry points (such as Invercargill airport) and cycling routes. Better information and promotion of Heartland road touring route opportunities and distinctive Southland experiences would be needed to attract tourists once improvements were made. Funding resources are limited for road safety improvements. Proposals need to be developed to take advantage of funding programmes such as the National Land Transport Programme. Attraction of this market faces competition from New Zealand s established iconic cycle trails including those in neighbouring regions, especially the Queenstown Trails and the Otago Central Rail Trail. Soft adventure cyclists would need the encouragement of quality experiences distinct from Queenstown and Otago to travel the additional distance to cycle in Southland. Holiday and Soft Adventure Trail Cyclists Soft adventure trails for day and multiday cycling in scenic landscapes. Many seek must do, iconic trails that offer a distinctive experience. Supporting services enabling a seamless trail experience transport to the trail, luggage storage/ shuttles, overnight accommodation on or off the trail, guided and self- guided options, bicycle and equipment hire. Engaging interpretation and storytelling that enable immersion in landscapes and cultures. Good online and digital information and booking. The Around the Mountains Cycle Trail (ATMCT) offers an opportunity to develop this market in northern Southland subject to the completion of the Trail and development of quality Southlandfocussed accommodation and products to balance the emphasis on Queenstown as the start and end point of the trail experience. There are some expectations that further Great Rides could be developed in Southland, including linkages from the ATMCT to Te Anau (and further south) and Gore, connections from the Clutha Gold Trail (in Otago) to Gore and a trail through the Catlins. The proposal to link trails in Otago and Queenstown to form a 500 km cycle trail network (while creating further competition) is a potential opportunity for trail links into Southland, including to Gore in the longer term. The private trails at Welcome Rock are near the ATMCT route and could contribute to the development of this part of Southland as a trail cycling destination. Development of further cycle trails (including extension of the ATMCT) would be costly. Demonstration of market demand and a sound business case would be required for such proposals to be considered for funding. 28 Compiled from the responses to the 2016 cycling survey and consultation with stakeholders. 36 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 30

35 Cycle Tourist Market Market Needs & Preferences Issues Identified in Southland 28 Opportunities & Barriers Locationbased Holiday Cyclists A range of road and trail experiences with points of interest, cycle-friendly facilities, bike hire and associated experiences (food, nature, culture). These experiences will ideally be close to tourist destinations or be offered as short guided or selfguided packages. They may be parts of longer trails. Opportunities exist for cycling visitors to use existing cycling infrastructure in Southland, but these are generally not wellpromoted or packaged to be easily accessible to visitors. Improvement of the range of road, trail and mountain biking experiences for local people and cycle tourists in Southland will provide opportunities for this market if well promoted and accessible. Bike hire and cycle-friendly facilities and products will be vital to encourage visitors to cycle while in the region. Short cycling experiences with provision of amenities and attractions that provide a different way to experience Southland are more likely to attract non-expert cyclists. Mountain Bikers Seeking quality, challenging riding often in iconic mountain biking destinations. Willing to travel for the right experience. World class trail networks that offer 2 to 3 days of riding opportunities. IMBA ratings 29 can be an incentive to visit. Challenging endurance riding, including IMBA Epic Rides 30. Good transport to riding destinations with cycle- friendly services and accommodation. Shuttle services to downhill or remote rides. Southland has limited current potential to attract this market due to the small scale of mountain biking facilities and competition from mountain biking destinations such as Taupo, Rotorua, Nelson and Queenstown. There is some potential to attract New Zealand mountain bikers (especially from nearby regions) to events such as the Moonshine Trail which offer riding on areas normally closed to the public. Improved management and promotion of backcountry mountain biking routes also has the potential to attract riders seeking a more remote experience. Where relevant this would entail assessment by the Department of Conservation in the draft Southland Murihiki Conservation Management Strategy and consideration of routes in Fiordland National Park in the review of the park management plan. More comprehensive and accessible online information on Southland s mountain biking opportunities will assist in informing mountain biking tourists of possible opportunities. 29IMBA has a 3-tiered Ride Centre rating system for facilities which offer quality riding for a range of riders. Ride Taupo on the North island has silver rating. 30IMBA Epic Rides are demanding rides in a natural setting at least 20 miles in length and composed of more than 80% single- track. Current Cycling in Southland Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 37 31

36 COMPETITIVE AND EVENT CYCLING 4.5 Southland has a very strong history of competitive cycling although anecdotal evidence suggests that participation in cycling events has not increased. Competitive cycling events are held for track cycling (in the Southland SIT Zero Fees Velodrome in Invercargill), road racing, mountain bike riding and BMX riding. The SIT Zero Fees Velodrome (operating 7 days a week), in Southland s multi-purpose ILT Stadium Southland, was New Zealand s only indoor velodrome until 2014 and is a major centre for track cycling competitions in New Zealand. Opened in 2006, the Velodrome regarded as one of the fastest tracks at sea level in the world, has hosted numerous competitions at the local, domestic and international levels. Cycling Southland, the major club and advocate group for track and road cycling in the region, is based at the stadium. The Velodrome is being developed as a regional performance hub for young cyclists from Southland and Otago as well riders for all ages can enjoy facilities and a variety of programmes on offer from 'learn to ride' to green prescription activities. The scheme (aimed to be operational by the end of 2016) is for young cyclists to train and participate in Southland cycling competitions with the aim of competing for slots in the New Zealand national squad. Southland hosts the Tour of Southland 31 which is now in its 60 th year. The Tour of Southland had official sanction as an international road race from the world cycling body, Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) until UCI ranking of the Tour is no longer being pursued due to impractical conditions, costs and limitations on participation of New Zealand riders who are not members of a registered national team 32. The Tour is considered to be a significant event for local and New Zealand cyclists, with ten riders from Southland participating in Over time it has attracted many of New Zealand s best cyclists, up to 20 teams of international cyclists and considerable spectator and media attention. The course taken by the Tour varies from year to year but is usually mostly contained within Southland District. The main Tour of Southland has also spawned a number of other events such the Great Southern Cycle Challenge - a junior tour and a mini tour open to all to raise funds for charity. The economic benefits of the Tour are thought to be significant for local economies due to the flow on effect from use of facilities and accommodation in towns in the region Personal communication from Cycling Southland. 38 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 32

37 The Milford Mountain Classic between Milford Sound and Te Anau is a relatively new road race organised by the Te Anau community and other stakeholders. It is becoming a popular event since it involves New Zealand s most spectacular scenic highway and the challenging climb up to, and through, the Homer Tunnel. Regular national and local road races are held in Invercargill and elsewhere. The Tour de Lakes, event start in Queenstown (Roads of Southland, Fiordland and Central Otago), and the Yunca Junior Tour of Southland are also significant annual Southland cycling events. The Southland Mountain Bike Club actively hosts regional mountain bike events in summer and in winter. Cross country events are held at the Sandy Point Mountain Bike Track in Invercargill and downhill events (such as the Ride Cycles Bluff Enduro) are held at Bluff. The winter race series attracts over 170 participants. The Ivan Wilson Park at Te Anau is also the site for mountain bike races. Individual annual mountain biking events in Southland are:» the MLT Moonshine Trail 33 mountain biking event near Gore has been running for ten years and attracted 204 participants in The event is based at Dolamore Park with courses extending from 39 km to 45 km and including private land which is not normally accessible to the public.» the Meridian Whitehill Windfarm Classic is a 25 km mountain bike event centred around the Whitehill Windfarm near Mossburn. The event attracted 120 participants in 2016.» the Mount Linton Muster offers a variety of mountain bike courses from 12 km to 40 km on Mount Linton Station near Ohai and Nightcaps. The event has run since 2008 and attracts around 130 participants» the Bannockburn Gutbuster, a well-established, 75 km race that begins at Garston in northern Southland and finishes at Bannockburn in the Central Otago District. There were 188 participants in Southland BMX races are hosted by the Southland BMX Club at their BMX track at Elizabeth Park in Invercargill. Participation in cycling competitions as opposed to general commuter or recreational cycling is in the low hundreds. There is now a large variety of events available in Southland and neighbouring Otago and Queenstown. Many competition participants have become selective about which events they attend, which is seen in a decline in registrations for some events such as the iconic Motatapu off-road cycling and running event held in Queenstown. The cost of attending such events can be a major disincentive for potential participants. Markets for competitive and event cycling in Southland are:» Local competitive road and track cyclists Local residents at various ages (including young people) interested in training for and competing in cycling races at various levels.» Elite, amateur and professional competitive cyclists Local and visiting road and track cyclists training for and competing in local, national and international level competitions.» Local and visiting competitive mountain bikers Interested in local and higher level competitions» Social event riders Local and visiting cyclists across cycling disciplines interested in riding in non- competitive, participative events.» Event spectators People who accompany event participants or who attend cycling events for the spectacle. Cycling Southland s principal competitive road cycling programme is run from September to May each year, with up to 75 riders turning out each Saturday to ride courses around the province, in separate A, B, C and D grades. Additionally the long-standing Wednesday World series of road rides are offered within daylight saving dates on Wednesday evenings on a course handy to Invercargill with up to 60 riders attending. The longstanding non-competitive annual Surf to City event attracts over 2,000 recreational and family cyclists, across event distances of 3km, 6km and 12km. The Glenham Trainwreck Ride in Eastern Southland attract around 120 competitors Current Cycling in Southland Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 39 33

38 Competitive & Event Cycling Market Market Needs & Preferences Safe training routes and venues suitable for a range of levels. A range of well-organised competitions including for young cyclists and different skill and competition levels. Issues Identified in Southland 34 Opportunities & Barriers Local road and track cyclists Low participation in competitions. Perceptions of the low safety of road cycling. Increased use of the SIT Zero Fees Velodrome for training and cycling programmes. School cycling programmes to stimulate interest among young people. Improving road safety for general cycling will also improve road conditions for cycle training and competitions and remove a barrier to cycle participation. However, this will require funding (see Recreational Cycling section above). Rejuvenation and promotion of existing major cycling events and hosting more events may stimulate local interest in competitive cycling. Elite, amateur an professional cyclists National and international standard routes and circuits at a range of distances/terrain suitable for training and competitions at the club, national or international levels. Well-organised competitions on safe routes with appropriate traffic management and provision of food, water and first aid. Southland has several established events, including the Tour of Southland, that provide opportunities for local and visiting elite and developing cyclists. With the proliferation of cycling events in New Zealand and other countries, cyclists are becoming more selective about which events they attend. Rejuvenation and promotion of the existing major competitions may assist in developing their reputation and in attracting more participants. Hosting a greater range of competitive events in Southland. The reputation of a competition, its route and challenges and level of competition can be important factors in drawing participants. 34 Compiled from the responses to the 2016 cycling survey and consultation with stakeholders 40 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 34

39 Competitive & Event Cycling Market Market Needs & Preferences Issues Identified in Southland 34 Opportunities & Barriers Local and visiting mountain bikers Best of the best trails and courses maximising the riding experience or offering an unusual challenge or landscape. A range of courses suitable for different skill levels, especially if an event attracts social, club or family groups. Well-organised events with oncourse water, food and first-aid and transport to the event location. While there is potential for local level competitions Southland has limited potential for visiting competitive markets due to the small scale of its mountain biking facilities. Improved range of trail standards, sustainable design and maintenance to facilitate local competitions. Several small distance events that attract some local and visiting interest. Improvement of local mountain biking facilities for general riding and a diversity of skill levels should take account of local competitive riding needs. There is some potential to attract New Zealand mountain bikers (especially from nearby regions) to events such as the Moonshine Trail which offer riding on areas normally closed to the public. There is potential to stimulate local interest in mountain biking competitions and participatory events through school and other cycling programs. Social event riders A range of wellorganised noncompetitive events (across the different types of cycling) that offer interest and personal challenge. Southland has some social road cycling events. Lack of a signature social riding event. The ATMCT may provide an opportunity to develop a signature trail event. Several of the New Zealand Cycle Trails offer one or more such events, often with cycling, running and walking options. Linked activities that add to the appeal entertainment, food, festivals. Event spectators Well-organised competitive and non- competitive events with a reputation for challenging cycling. Range of linked activities such as entertainment, food, accommodation, tours, festivals. There has been limited development of activities for spectators in Southland. As part of the rejuvenation of cycling events there may be opportunities to developed linked experiences and packages to attract spectators. This might include development of a festival of cycling in conjunction with a major event. 34 Compiled from the responses to the 2016 cycling survey and consultation with stakeholders Current Cycling in Southland Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 41 35

40 5. The Way Forward MAIN APPROACH 5.1 The Southland Cycling Strategy focuses on providing a firm foundation of quality infrastructure, experiences and awareness building upon which cycling opportunities can be built and extended over time. It needs a framework which all cycling projects can utilise to add value to the 'vision' - to improve cycling safety and participation in Southland. The Strategy is the strategic response to the issues (problem statements) and needs identified, including how the individual strategies will contribute to the benefits and objectives. The strategies developed, and their contributions, are outlined in the following sections. The Framework (The Way Forward) are the key elements which when utilised and deployed, either individually or collectively will create actions or responsibilities to be allocated for the parties to manage and deliver. The Framework elements are: 1. LEVEL ONE Vision Principals Objectives Governance Structure Memberships Structure and Groups Decision Making Approved Risk Register Funding Agreements (shared service) 2. LEVEL TWO Delivery Strategies Strategy Objectives Key performance indicators Decision making tools 3. LEVEL THREE Actions & Timetable Outcomes Action Plan Resources Community coordination Council staff Volunteers Educational materials Asset/equipment Communication Plan Administration support Media plan Brand and identity 42 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 36

41 RIDE SOUTHLAND GOVERNANCE STRUCTURE 5.2 The following structure for delivering cycling for Southland has been agreed between the contributing Councils as: RIDE SOUTHLAND GOVERNANCE GROUP RIDE SOUTHLAND ADVISORY GROUP Governance Group Membership: Appointed council representatives x4, NZTA x1, DOC x1, community 1 eprese11tatives x3 Venture Southland representative (facilitation and administration) Purpose: Provide overall strategic vision and comdination of identified key priorities of cycling strategy...., ADVISE & REPORT 11 ADVISE & REPORT UNDERTAKE ACTIVITIES AS AGREED RIDE SOUTHLAND TECHNICAL GROUP Advisory Group Membership: Appointed by Governance Group - individuals with interest & expe1 ience in cycling- who are motivated to help achieve outcomes of strategy Members can be seconded to Governance Group to provide expert advice if and when Governance Group requires Purpose: Support implementation of strategy Provide expertise & insights regarding wider community projects and interests Technical Group Membership: Council stafflevel, DOC and NZTA representatives and Venture Southland 1 epresentative Purpose: Provide technical expertise on council priorities, funding and operation to implement key projects of strategy This structure is able to draw on the experience and expertise form within the community via the Advisory Group and for knowledge and delivery from the Technical Group. This structure has similarities to other regional groups who need to coordinate both government/local Government Agencies as well as a significant number of varied community groups. Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 37

42 DECISION MAKING CRITERIA 5.3 The following decision-making criteria will be used to ensure that decisions on improving, consolidating, maintaining and extending Southland s cycle network are sustainable. In the region s limited funding environment preferred cycling developments will be those that provide the greatest benefits for the region and its communities. The criteria have been designed to apply broadly across the different types of cycling developments and take account of assessment criteria for cycling projects applied under the National Land Transport Programme ( cycling-2/#nzcycles) and the New Zealand Cycle Trail ( rides-fund/). Decision making criteria for Cycling Infrastructure needs and new proposals A risk register will need to be developed and managed as a principal responsibility of the governance group. The register Demonstration would bring using together robust evidence the individual that there elements is a strong from level 1 Demand Councils or groups which of when demand viewed for the collectively infrastructure/development will give a more holistic from view. the relevant A risk is seen as something which markets would cause (e.g. commuter, the vision recreational, not be able tourist) to be achieved and needs 2 Safety contribution elimination or mitigation, Where through relevant, actions controlled demonstration or encouraged that the developments by the governance or group. proposed works are required to minimise road or trail accident risks. The problem statements highlight The development specific areas meets where relevant risks New have Zealand been standards, identified. These 3 Sustainable design being: legislative requirements and approval requirements including for safety, purpose (e.g. trail standards), environmental protection, cultural protection. 4 Cycling network linkages 5 Importance for recreation and tourism 6 Development costs 7 Community support 8 Management and maintenance 9 Benefits and costs The development creates a cycling network or links to an existing cycling network such as an urban commuter/recreation network, the New Zealand Cycle Trail, Heartland Rides, mountain biking trails and facilities. The development is needed to create cycle linkages to population centres, transport or accommodation. Contribution of the development to the quality of recreation/ tourism experiences and opportunities for users and the region as well as potential for business and employment opportunities. The level of funding required and options for funding. Whether the proposal meets the assessment criteria and funding requirements for relevant funding programmes. A high level of support from the relevant communities, users, stakeholder groups, local government and government agencies. Agreement from affected landholders (where relevant). Lack of major barriers to development. Arrangements capable of providing ongoing management and maintenance for the infrastructure/development. Appraisal of the overall benefits likely from the development versus the costs of its implementation (or of not proceeding). Benefits and costs may include quantitative factors such as financial costs, projected economic impacts, estimates of accidents) or qualitative factors (community health and wellbeing impacts, impacts on lifestyle choices and amenity, potential for employment and business opportunities). The Way Forward Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 43 38

43 RISK REGISTER 5.4 A risk register will need to be developed and managed as a principal responsibility of the governance group. The register would bring together the individual elements from Councils or groups which when viewed collectively will give a more holistic view. A risk is seen as something which would cause the vision not be able to be achieved and needs elimination or mitigation, through actions controlled or encouraged by the governance group. The problem statements highlight specific areas where risks have been identified. These being: Cyclists Safety Evidence contained in the strategy highlights that this is a high risk which if not managed further will inhibit the vision being achieved. Regional Coordination Groups individually operating in isolation or without common goals or direction are less likely to achieve the fullest outcome. Infrastructure Investment Understanding fully the impacts of why investment is appropriate and necessary is key to decision making and the business case approach is a mitigate approach now used in many organisations. This approach will be able to highlight areas where governance support is needed. Funding Current levels of investment in cycling have not delivered the outcomes sought by the community or government. This approach would be developed in a matrix for ease of monitoring and actioning. Funding Framework 5.5 The funding needed for successful ongoing delivery of cycling for Southland as a coordinated group focused on the agreed vision needs to be agreed. The way the costs are shared and what outcomes are required needs to be agreed by the Governance Group. These then would be monitored and reviewed. Several shared services agreement are in place for Councils and the selection of the most appropriate is a governance responsibility. The underlying principal of funding for the group are: Administration/governance costs shared as per agreement (yet to be approved) Coordination Cost Shared as per agreement (yet to be approved) Project/Action Cost Sole discretion for commitment rests with the organisation funding the action. To this end, the Governance Group may support and encourage a specific action or project, however the organisation who will retain and be responsible for the asset or obligation must make those decisions through its normal business processes. Cycling responsibilities span across local government (Councils) and central government (NZTA, Police, ACC etc) and how these contributions are identified and made needs documented. It is unlikely that cash is provided from some areas, however, direct resources (staff) can be utilised as an allocated funding source. Venture Southland currently has through it Governance Board, been tasked to support the group. This however will most likely be reviewed in coming years. A term of commitment should be made by governance members to ensure stability is possible. This element is a risk item for the Risk Register. Some governance members have a very clear responsibility (eg NZTA, ICC, SDC, GDC) as they are the road network owners or recreation facility owners. Funding for projects may come from the community (eg grants, bequeaths or gifts), Councils rates, private groups, government agencies allocations or subsidised programmes. Such as NLTP, Tourism, safety funds or Urban Cycling Fund. Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 39

44 It is not expected the Community Representatives on the Governance Groups will be expected to contribute to the administration/governance or coordination costs unless their organisations so wish to. The shared service agreement(when developed and approved) will specifically outline the costs involved, how they are shared and the outcomes expected from that investment. DELIVERING STRATEGIES 5.6 The delivery strategies have been developed to give effect to the objectives and the following table highlights how each strategy can be utilised to give impact to the objective when utilised collectively. Strategy Objectives To achieve a declining trend of cycle related crashes on Southland roads by 2025 To increase the number of completed and connected cycle routes in Southland by 2025 To achieve an increasing trend in cycling participation for Southland residents and visitors by A Improve basic infrastructure to encourage more people to cycle B Develop and promote a suite of high quality cycling experiences C Implement programmes to encourage people to cycle and raise safety awareness D Support community cycling activities and participation based events E Assist the rejuvenation of competitive cycling events F Support development of local cycle commissionable tourism products and partnerships G Implement strong leadership, communication and cooperation KPI Yet to be developed OUTCOMES 5.7 Actions and Timetables During the development of the strategy a number of possible actions within each strategy were considered (from consultation and feedback) and these are included with Appendix E. These actions have not been approved by the governance group and there is no current commitment to the work. Whilst an initial priority has been provided this is subject to review and no timetable has been assigned. These actions highlight that there are many opportunities to develop and deliver for cycling. Resources This outcome phase of the strategy has not been developed as yet. Many of the actions noted in Appendix E rely heavily on a coordination of actions across cycling in Southland. No such role is currently provided or funded. Communication Plan This outcome phase of the strategy has not been fully developed as yet. Brand/Identity A brand/identity has been developed and considered by the Governance Group. The group name has been agreed as Ride Southland and the brand provided, agreed in principle as: Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 40

45 organisation New Zealand Cycle Trail New Zealand Police New Zealand Transport Agency Otago Southland Regional Land Transport Committee Other cycling clubs Road Safety Southland Southern District Health Board - Southern DHB Southland District Council Southland Mountain Bike Club Sport Southland Tourism and bicycle industry Venture Southland role Brand, marketing, data collection and advocacy for the New Zealand Cycle Trail. The NZ Police play a role in promoting road safety in New Zealand including through enforcement and education services. Strategic priorities for cycling in New Zealand, safety guidelines, cycling network design guidelines, administration of funding under Urban Cycleways Programme, the state highway networks and National Land Transport Programme. Development of the Otago Southland Reginal land Transport Plans which include recommendations for project funding under the National Land Transport Programme. Including Te Anau Cycling Inc, Hokonui Bikers, Southland BMX Club. Variously offer social and event cycling opportunities, advocacy, cycling information. Road Safety Southland, a shared service between ICC, SDC, GDC, runs road safety projects and programmes in response to local road safety issues on behalf of the local authorities in Southland. There is a strong educational focus which links closely with local police enforcement and engineering work carried out by the councils. The Southern (DHB) is responsible for planning, funding and providing health and disability services to a population of over 304,268 located south of the Waitaki River. The catchment area encompasses Invercargill City, Queenstown - Lakes District, Gore, rural Southland, Clutha, Central Otago, Maniototo, Waitaki District and Dunedin City. One of their focuses is promoting and protecting wellness. Development, management and maintenance of on-road and off-road cycling infrastructure. Development and management of the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail. Organises events and rides, maintains trails at Sandy Point and Bluff, advocacy. Not-for-profit Regional Sports Trust that provides support for active lifestyle programmes, club and school sport programmes, coaching and event organising (including the MLT Moonshine Trail mountain biking event). Provision of products and support services related to cycle routes and trails. Regional economic and community development initiatives and tourism destination promotion. 46 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 41

46 Appendix APPENDIX A Planning Context Southland Regional Development Strategy The Southland Regional Development Strategy 35 released in October 2015 aims to improve the liveability, lifestyle opportunities and socio-economic conditions in the region. As pointed out in that Strategy the region s aging population, static population numbers and the shift of population and economic activity to northern centres have the potential to deflate regional economic development and resilience and the quality of life for its residents in the future. Actions proposed under the Regional Development Strategy that could potentially affect demand for cycling, and to which the Southland Cycling Strategy can contribute, are:» encouraging migration to the region and a more varied demographic mix, including through attracting more domestic and international tertiary students» development of tourism as part of regional economic diversification» building the urban culture of Invercargill to improve liveability» improve air and road transport to the region. Regional Cycling Strategies and Studies Invercargill Detailed planning for cycling infrastructure has been carried out for Invercargill and Te Anau and is being conducted for the Gore District. The Invercargill City Council has an overarching vision to create an exciting, innovative, safe, caring and friendly city, offering lifestyles based on a healthy environment and diverse growing economy. The Invercargill Walking and Cycling Strategy was developed to encourage walking and cycling among residents, guide development and funding of walking and cycling infrastructure and work towards the New Zealand Transport Strategy target of 30% of trips using walking or cycling by The March 2015 Recreational Walking and Cycling Strategy 36 was developed to provide long term direction for development, maintenance and renewal of a walking and cycling trail network throughout the City and to the outlying areas of Oreti Beach, Sandy Point, Omaui and Bluff. That Strategy establishes objectives and levels of service for each trail and design; construction and maintenance standards for each category of trail; and sets out a plan for monitoring of trail use. Through the provision of trails the council seeks to encourage more people to walk and cycle resulting in health benefits, improved access to parks and the natural environment and a positive contribution to the revitalisation of the city. Priority focus areas in the Invercargill Recreational Walking and Cycling Strategy are completing trail connections between Invercargill and Oreti beach, between Invercargill and Bluff, the waterways in the east and between the city and Anderson Park. Te Anau In 2014 a cycling opportunities study 37 was conducted for Te Anau and the surrounding area to investigate improved cycling opportunities covering all types of cycling for both visitors and visitors. Recommendations of the Te Anau and Environs Cycling Opportunities Study include: 34 Southland Mayoral Forum (October 2015). Southland Regional Development Strategy. 35 Invercargill City Council (2010), Invercargill Walking and Cycling Strategy Invercargill City Council (March 2015). Recreational Walking and Cycling Strategy. Prepared by Xyst. 37 Envisage New Zealand (July 2014). Te Anau and Environs Cycling Opportunities Study. Prepared for Venture Southland. 60 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 42

47 » encouraging improvements to cycling access and safety around Te Anau through adjustments to existing road and path infrastructure, signage, development of additional pathways and cycle lanes and reduction of vehicle speed limits on the State Highway and major streets. Designation and promotion of cycling loops of different lengths is also recommended» at Manapouri, formalising and signposting connecting footpaths and informal trails for cycling and improving the cycle-friendliness of roads» improving the cycle-friendliness of roads in the Te Anau Basin for road riding and cycle touring» extension of mountain biking opportunities through - improvements in shared paths in Ivon Wilson Park at Te Anau to provide for beginner and intermediate mountain biking - purpose-built tracks for intermediate and advanced riders in regenerating forest about the Kepler car park - several proposals within Fiordland National Park (including completion of the Te Anau- Manapouri Cycleway) which would be subject to approval by the Department of Conservation and changes to the park s management plan. Department of Conservation land The Department of Conservation has developed a draft Southland Murihiki Conservation Management Strategy 38 (CMS) that is being considered for approval. The draft CMS identifies some locations on public conservation lands for consideration for mountain biking access and facilities. Mountain biking in Fiordland National Park is restricted to some management trails under the Fiordland National Park Management Plan which is a statutory plan under the National Parks Act The question of changes in mountain bike access and new mountain bike tracks in the national park will be considered in the review of the management plan 39. Policies to guide future consideration of and decisions on new mountain biking proposals are provided in the draft CMS. New Zealand Outdoor Recreation Strategy The New Zealand Outdoor Recreation Strategy 40 is a high level strategy that aims to encourage more people into outdoor recreation through provision of recreational access to natural areas, effective investment in outdoor recreation and improvements in the outdoor recreation sector s ability to meet changing participant needs. Aspects of the Strategy relevant to cycling are:» provision of a graduated range of outdoor recreation opportunities across a spectrum of natural environments» collaboration between government and the NGO sector, including in management of outdoor recreation areas and associated conflicts and over-use issues» increasing environmental awareness among outdoor recreation participants to help protect natural resources» consideration of outdoor recreation needs in urban design and transport planning» encouraging schools and outdoor recreation groups to create more opportunities for young people to participate in outdoor recreation. 38 Department of Conservation (2014). Conservation Management Strategy- Southland Murihiki , Volume 1, Revised Draft, November Department of Conservation (2014), South Island CMS Common Issues Report. Discussion of issues raised by submitters that were common across the Draft Canterbury, Otago and Southland Murihiki Conservation Management Strategies Sport New Zealand (2009). Outdoor Recreation Strategy Appendix Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 61 43

48 Planning for Safer Cycling In 2010 the Ministry of Transport issued the Safer Journeys 41 strategy to guide improvements in the safety of travel on New Zealand s roads. This strategy aims to develop a culture of sharing the road with pedestrians and cyclists, provide safe and convenient pedestrian and cycling routes, reduce vehicle speeds on roads frequented by cyclists and encourage road safety education in schools. A detailed analysis of cycling safety was conducted in 2014 when the New Zealand Transport Agency convened an expert Cycling Safety Panel 42 to examine ways for central and local government to ensure that road cycling became a safe transport option in urban and rural areas. As a result a Cycling Safety Action Plan 43 was released in August 2015 to deliver safer cycling through measures that include:» the Urban Cycleways Programme that provides funding to complete urban cycle networks» speed management guidelines, including reduction of motor vehicle speed limits near schools and shops and on rural roads» development of an updated guide for nationally-consistent cycle network design to ensure new cycling infrastructure is fit for purpose. This will consider standards for space management, surfacing, sight distances, road markings and maintenance on rural cycling routes» safety training including cycle training for school children and adults, cycle-awareness training for drivers of heavy vehicles, and provision of heavy vehicle awareness information to cyclists» extension of the Share the Road campaign. Funding under the Urban Cycleways Programme may provide opportunities for cycling developments in Southland s main urban areas while guidelines for cycling safety and network design will need to be taken into account in developing road cycling experiences. National Land Transport Programme The National Land Transport Programme, administered by the NZ Transport Agency (NZTA), provides funding for improving road transport throughout New Zealand. Regional Transport Committees (which represent councils and the NZTA) develop strategic directions for land transport and invite submissions from local government for transport projects, which may include projects related to cycling. Projects recommended in Regional Land Transport Plans are considered for funding under the national programme in 3-year cycles. The current national funding cycle extends from 2015 to The Otago Southland Regional Land Transport Plans set a long term goal: To provide accessible transport connections, giving users an appropriate choice of modes, and to gain improved performance from the land transport system, by focusing on road safety, economic growth and productivity and value for money. In relation to cycling, these plans aim to encourage and enable higher levels of cycling through improved provision of safe road space for cyclists. Construction of trails for cycle tourism is also encouraged. There are no Southland cycling projects in the National Land Transport Programme. There may be opportunities to develop Southland cycling projects for submission in the following round of funding in Ministry of Transport (2010). Safer Journeys New Zealand s Road Safety Strategy Cycling Safety Panel (December 2014). Safer Journeys for People Who Cycle: Cycling Safety Panel Final Report and Recommendations. 43 New Zealand Transport Agency (August 2015). Making Cycling Safer and More Attractive: The NZ Transport Agency s cycling safety action plan. 62 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 44

49 OTAGO SOUTHLAND REGIONAL LAND TRANSPORT PLANS The Otago Southland Regional Land Transport Plans seek to encourage and enable higher levels of cycling. Reallocating existing roading space to cycling, and providing for cycling in new roading projects, will help increase recognition of the rights of cyclists to safe road space. Provision of good quality cycle facilities, within the roading corridor, including separate facilities, will play an important role in increasing the levels of cycling within the two regions. Improved land-use planning practices will also assist in greater levels of cycling activity because local services as well as transport services will be more accessible by bicycle. Continued expansion of cycle tourism, through the provision of quality experiences on trails, the construction of further trails will help build this sector of the tourist market, aimed at both overseas and domestic visitors. Providing better connections between trails (although is not a major focus of this plan) will encourage visitors to remain longer in the south. Primary policies New road construction and major improvements include provision for safe walking and cycling in high pedestrian and cycle use areas. Transfer some existing road space over to walking and cycling where this is needed to ensure safe travel. Build cycleways/walkways separated from motorised traffic where the safety of those using active transport to commute is at significant risk from the traffic. Expand and improve the cycling network, and connect existing cycling routes to keep cyclists safe, and to encourage new cyclists. Give priority, where there is latent or emerging demand, to initiatives that assist with access to and from schools, workplaces, and local commuting trails. Ensure all urban buses are able to carry bikes, and urban town centres have bike racks. Ensure there are sufficient, attractive and safe choices for travel between parts of Nga Haerenga the NZ Cycle Trail, supporting the growth of cycle tourism. When needed, prompt a change in travel behaviour towards increased walking and cycling in urban areas by managing traffic to maintain certain levels of congestion, and/or adapting the supply and pricing of car parking over time; and promoting multi-modal journeys with public transport or ride sharing. Appendix Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 63 45

50 APPENDIX B Case Studies of NZ Cycling Destinations Otago Central Rail Trail The highly successful Otago Central Rail Trail has become a model for many of the trail experiences in the New Zealand Cycle Trail. The rail trail (a 150 km 3 to 4 day cycle that can also be used for shorter journeys and for walking and horse riding) was opened in 2000 on the disused Central Otago railway line between Clyde and Dunedin as an initiative aimed at rejuvenating the stagnating local economy. The rail trail passes through spectacular mountain and valley scenery, old gold mining towns and agricultural areas. A wide range of accommodation, attractions (such as heritage sites, arts, wineries, farm visits), tours, food and cafes, sporting activities, bike hire, transport and luggage services are offered by local businesses. An estimated 12,000 to 15,000 multi-day cyclists and up to 50,000 day cyclists use the Central Otago Rail Trail each year. The trail has an international and domestic reputation as an iconic experience. International visitors comprise over one third of trail visitors and have increased as a proportion of trail users since the trail was opened. Most international trail users comes from Australia with significant numbers from Europe, South Africa, the UK and North America. The trail attracts visitors from around New Zealand, predominantly from the upper North Island (nearly two-thirds of domestic visitors in a 2014/15 survey), with lesser numbers of visitors from the nearby Canterbury and Otago regions and the lower North Island 44. A high proportion of domestic and international rail trail visitors arrived via aircraft to the Queenstown or Dunedin airports. In 2014/15 it was estimated that the rail trail had resulted in an addition of total economic output of over $10 million to the Otago and Central Otago economies and full time employment equivalents. The success of the Otago Central Rail Trail in attracting visitors and improving the local economy has owed much to the achievements of the Otago Central Rail Trail Charitable Trust in developing, coordinating and promoting trail experiences (with local tourism organisations), the contribution of the Department of Conservation to infrastructure and recreational experiences, and the collaboration of over 70 local businesses and organisations in offering trailrelated products and services. Queenstown Trails Queenstown is a premier cycling destination with a global reputation noted for its extensive network of over 190 kilometres of quality cycling and walking trails and facilities for mountain biking. It includes the 120 km Queenstown Trail, part of the New Zealand Cycle Network. Development of the trail network at Queenstown commenced in 2004 under the guidance of the Queenstown Trails Trust, with assistance from the Department of Conservation, the Queenstown Lakes District Council, the tourism industry and local cycling and walking groups. The network offers mainly easy to intermediate level riding on shared cycling, walking and hiking trails ranging from short to full day excursions. There is also a local commuter/recreational trail network within and between local communities which is planned for extension over the next ten years. There are five mountain bike parks that offer riding from beginner to advanced levels and challenging downhill and technical trails at Ben Lomond (accessed by the Skyline Gondola) and Wynyard Terrain Park. Use of the cycling network varies from a few hundred users on some trails to very large numbers on the most popular sections of the Queenstown Trail between Frankton and Queenstown. In 2015 a total of 214,100 journeys by cyclists, walkers and event competitors was recorded on the Queenstown Trail 45. About 46% of users of the Queenstown Trail are estimated to be international visitors and a relatively high 44 Central Otago District Council (May 2015). Otago Central Rail Trail: User Survey Kennedy, M (27 January 2016). Queenstown Trail Visitation, Executive summary for Period October to December Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 46

51 use of the trail network by local residents 46. The Skyline/Ben Lomond downhill mountain biking trails (serviced by a gondola) attract about 50,000 to 70,000 riders a year 47. Demand for cycling in Queenstown is increasing due to:» the quality and promotion of a range of cycling infrastructure and experiences» the availability of a wide range of linked, well-promoted and bookable attractions, accommodation, guided and self-guided packages and services such as bike hire and shuttle transport. Some of these are pre-existing business offering products for Queenstown visitors generally, while others are businesses the offer trail-specific products» its status as an iconic visitor destination attracting a range of visitors seeking soft adventure and adventure activities» ease of access through the Queenstown airport» the growth of the local Queenstown population which is forecast to grow from about 30,700 in 2015 to about 57,000 in Effective planning and management of the trail network by the Queenstown Trails Trust has been critical to its success including through:» building an extensive trail network collaboratively across different land tenures» fund raising and income generation through grant funding, investments and events» partnerships with the Department of Conservation, local community and recreation groups, landholders and businesses for trail development, experience development and trail maintenance. Rotorua Mountain Biking The mountain bike network at Whakarewarewa Forest near Rotorua has an international reputation for its mountain biking. The mountain biking network was gradually developed in a forest park designated for a range of recreational activities through the efforts of the local mountain biking club, the Rotorua District Council, funding from the Rotorua MTB Charitable Trust, the use of Department of Corrections labour and development of support services and products by local businesses. The development of the area for mountain biking has been assisted by Rotorua s status as an established visitor destination with broad appeal to a large market and its accessibility from North Island population centres and Auckland airport. The reputation of the Whakarewarewa Forest trails and visitation levels also grew when it hosted the 2006 UCI World Mountain Bike Championships. Around 102,000 mountain bikers visited the trails in 2009 (an 85% growth from 2005 visitation) contributing an estimated $8.7 million to the local economy in this economic contribution grew to $10,2 million in Rotorua offers 150 km of mountain bike trails across a range of disciplines and skill levels, year-round gondola access to downhill trails, on-site bike hire and food services, a technical riding school, guided tours and customised multi-adventure activities. There are also numerous bike shops, bike hire services, guiding, cyclist transport services and cycle-friendly accommodation properties in Rotorua. Rotorua has hosted international level mountain biking competitions and hosts several major events including the Crankworx Rotorua (part of the Crankworx World Tour) and the 10-day Rotoura Bike Festival. In 2015 Crankworx added about $3.7 million to the local economy and attracted over 8,000 visitors. The Rotorua facility has been designated a Gold Level Ride Centre by the International Mountain Bicycling Association - the highest IMBA Ride Centre ranking. 46 Angus & Associates in association with TRC Tourism (November 2013). 47 TRC Tourism (2015). Queenstown Trails for the future Prepared for the Queenstown Trails Trust. 48 Queenstown Lakes District Council ((2015). Long Term Plan APR Consultants Ltd (2009). Recreational Use and Economic Impact of Whakarewarewa Forest: 2009 Update. Appendix Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 65 47

52 APPENDIX C Survey of Southland Cyclists As part of the development of the Southland Cycling Strategy a survey was conducted of Southland cyclists to ascertain cycling activities undertaken and their thoughts on the quality of cycling experiences in the region and how they could be improved. The online survey was distributed to contacts through the Venture Southland databases and attracted 339 responses. The survey respondents covered a range of ages 1.75% were aged under 18 years, 6.3% between 18 and 29, 30.8% between 30 and 44, 41.4% between 45 and 59 and 19.6% over 60 years. The people surveyed participated in a range of cycling activities. Cycling activity Daily % (No.) Weekly % (No.) Monthly % (No.) In last year % (No) Total (No.) Road riding - training 15.38% (10) 44.62% (29) 15.38% (10) 24.62% (16) 65 Road riding - recreation 6.13% (10) 43.56% (71) 25.15% (41) 25.15% (41) 163 Road riding transport/ commuting 36.11% (39) 29.63% (32) 11.11% (12) 23.15% (25) 108 Recreational riding on local cycle trails 10.71% (21) 31.63% (62) 31.12% (61) 26.53% (52) 196 Mountain bike riding on local trails 8.02% (13) 46.30% (75) 24.07% (39) 21.69% (35) 162 Track cycling - velodrome 1.96% (1) 15.69% (8) 13.73% (7) 68.63% (35) 51 Around the Mountains Cycle Trails 4.48% (3) 2.99% (2) 13.43% (9) 79.10% (53) 67 Otago Central Rail Trail 1.82% (2) 0.91% (1) 9.09% (10) 88.18% (97) 110 Queenstown Trail 2.13% (2) 4.26% (4) 12.77% (12) 80.85% (76) Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 48

53 Issue Investment in cycling Views of survey respondents» 83% considered that investment in cycling could lead to community benefits» 81% agreed cycling was a good investment for councils though opposition was expressed by a small number» Caution was expressed by some respondents such as investment in new mountain bike trails which may receive limited use in winter and impacts on other recreational users (such as permitting cycling on walking trails). Cycling for transport About 62% agreed it was viable in Southland, but only 29% cycled regularly for transport (once a month or more). Urban cycling facility needs Most emphasis was on bike racks or storage at destinations. Some indicated need for changing and showering facilities at workplaces. Road safety Safety was a major concern with around 56% concerned about the safety of cycling on urban roads and 71% concerned about cycling safety on roads outside of cities and towns. Road cycling infrastructure» Desirability of more (or better designed) cycle lanes in Invercargill» Safe linkages along cycling routes and between cycle lanes and cycle paths» Wider and smoother road shoulders or cycle lanes on highways and rural roads» Cyclist warning signs. Quality of recreational cycle trails Varied views were expressed.» 46% considered trails were of good quality, but 40% were neutral» 59% saw a need for more recreational cycle trails, with 63% wanting more trails suitable for families» Suggestions included completing the Invercargill to Bluff Trail; trails in the Catlins; between Gore and Lumsden; in the Te Anau areas and connections from the ATMCT to Te Anau and further south. Facilities for recreational and tourism cycling» Provision of toilets along routes and trails a major concern.» Provision of car parking, shelter, drinking water, signage and information.» Better maintenance of roads and trails, including removal of broken glass.» More camping and accommodation, cafes and bike hire near or along routes. Preferred mountain biking destinations» Availability of mountain biking facilities close to population centres is important 70% of respondents preferred to ride in the Invercargill area at Sandy Point or Bluff.» A smaller number had preferred rides dispersed throughout the region including Gore, Te Anau and a variety of 4WD and management trails in Fiordland National Park, Longwood, Mavora and areas north of Mossburn and Lumsden.» Some preferred to ride in the Queenstown and Wanaka areas. Mountain biking facility needs» More trails at existing or new locations including a greater variety of difficulty levels and trails suitable for families and younger riders.» Some sought professionally designed, purpose built trails or better maintenance of existing trails» Wash down facilities, toilets. Appendix Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 67 49

54 APPENDIX D Southland Cycling Audit The following table summarises Southland s range of cycling and associated infrastructure and services. Name/ Location Use Access Infrastructure, Routes & Connections Associated Experiences, Services & Partnerships Planning, Tenure & Management Issues, Opportunities & Gaps COMMUTER CYCLING Invercargill cycle network Relatively light use. 1-2% of all road users Various access points. East west connections most well developed. On-road cycle lanes 80% - 90% complete. Last 10 20% more difficult to complete and justify given low use and lack of traffic congestion. No additional services Public Roads (ICC) Focus on quality improvements including making the Oreti Beach to City route more safe and attractive to cyclists. ROAD RIDING ROUTES Myross Bush Loop 26 km can be extended 16km by adding loop from the Mill Road North- Bainfield Road intersection No data on the level of use. From the Velodrome at Surrey Park. Rides are on public roads. No supporting infrastructure No additional services Public roads Improved signage and recognition as a cycling route. Safety audit of road would benefit cyclists. The Catlins 80km 170 km of options for all grades No data on the level of use. From Invercargill many options to Fortrose and beyond. Rides are on public roads. No supporting infrastructure No additional services Public roads Improved signage and recognition as a cycling route. Safety audit of road would benefit cyclists. Riverton to Tuatapere 50 km point to point ride from Riverton No data on the level of use. Can ride from Invercargill Rides are on public roads. No supporting infrastructure No additional services Public roads Improved signage and recognition as a cycling route. Safety audit of road would benefit cyclists. Hedgehope Loop 75km traditional Invercargill training ride. No data on the level of use. From Invercargill Rides are on public roads. No supporting infrastructure No additional services Public roads Improved signage and recognition as a cycling route. Safety audit of road would benefit cyclists. Gore District No identified popular routes From Gore Rides are on public roads. No supporting infrastructure No additional services Public roads Improved signage and recognition as a cycling route. Safety audit of road would benefit cyclists. 68 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 50

55 Name/ Location Use Access Infrastructure, Routes & Connections Associated Experiences, Services & Partnerships Planning, Tenure & Management Issues, Opportunities & Gaps ROAD RIDING - TOURISM ROUTES Southern Scenic Route 610 km scenic drive route between Queenstown and Dunedin that is also promoting as a road cycling route. In Southland cycling mostly occurs between Invercargill, Riverton, Tuatapere and Te Anau. Less than 1,000 cycle tourists a year. Route is between Queenstown and Dunedin. The Southern Scenic route is signposted with brown tourism signposting. Range of accommodation. Rides are on public roads. Improved promotion. Safety audit of road/cycle issues. Route through Invercargill not ideal. Economic development opportunities in Manapouri, Tuatapere, Riverton, Curio Bay. Catlins Coastal Route From Balclutha through the Catlins to Invercargill Southern Traverse From Invercargill to Lumsden ROAD RIDING EVENTS Tour of Southland Multi stage road race attracting international- standard riders 20 teams but much larger range of other associated events and users Route varies but includes stages in Queenstown Lakes District in addition to Southland Sponsored by SBS Bank Cycling Southland Well established professional road race. Previously category 2.2 UCI International Tour event, but lost this rating in 2014 due to costs 50. ICC Surf to City Participation based walking/running/ cycling event. 2,000+ participants, with numbers increasing. Oreti Beach to City Invercargill City and Sport Southland Would benefit from improvements to the route. General opportunity to promote cycling in Invercargill. Milford Mountain Classic January road race with 120 km, 100 km (Richoh Homer Hundred) and 65 km (Eglington Challenge) events between Milford and Te Anau Courses suitable for good recreational riders, club riders and elite riders. Milford to Te Anau State Hwy 94 Several sponsors, including Meridian Energy. Invercargill City and Sport Southland Tour de Lakes Annual road race with stages held in Southland, Central Otago and the Queenstown area. Provides events for different grades. 50 Personal communication from Cycling Southland. Appendix Ride Southland Cycling - Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 69 51

56 Name/ Location Use Access Infrastructure, Routes & Connections Associated Experiences, Services & Partnerships Planning, Tenure & Management Issues, Opportunities & Gaps ROAD RIDING - TOURISM ROUTES Yunca Junior Tour of Southland Two day six stage event for 13 to under 19 grades riders. Teretonga, Hedgehope and other locations Teretonga Racetrack Local roads Sponsored by Yunca Cycling Southland Southland Road Champs Time trials held annually in April. Under 15s to Masters No Info available Invercargill Velodrome Within the city area Cycling Southland A highly competitive elitist Wednesday World series of road rides are offered within daylight saving dates on Wednesday evenings up to 60 riders attending Invercargill Velodrome Within the city area Cycling Southland Westpac Rescue Helicopter Charity Ride Frankton to Invercargill Fundraiser limited to 60 riders. TRACK CYCLING FACILITIES SIT Zero Fees Velodrome, Invercargill World Class cycling facility, that was once New Zealand s only indoor velodrome and was instrumental in establishing the sport in the country. Invercargill 250 metre timber indoor track Hosts elite cyclists and some major cycling events, such as the UCI Junior Track World Championships in 2012 and biannually national championships Cycling Southland Opportunities to develop learn to cycle and disabled and elderly Education/ Community side every strong. Event opportunities such as Masters Cycling. TRACK CYCLING EVENTS National Age Group Championships Invercargill SIT Velodrome Elite riders age group riders from under 15s to masters Cycling Southland Crowe Horwarth Corporate Pursuit Annual cycling challenge run as Italian pursuit. Held in August ILT Junior Track Carnival held in October Two day event for elite junior cyclists from New Zealand and Australia Invercargill SIT Velodrome Elite riders Junior Cycling Southland 70 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 52

57 Name/ Location Use Access Infrastructure, Routes & Connections Associated Experiences, Services & Partnerships Planning, Tenure & Management Issues, Opportunities & Gaps OFF-ROAD TRAILS Around the Mountains Cycle Trail (ATMCT) Proposed as a circuit Queenstown/Lake Wakatipu, Mount Nicholas Station, Oreti Valley, Lumsden, Kingston, Queenstown. Part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail. Oreti Valley section is not completed as it is subject to an appeal. Easy track grade km total trail when completed. Can be done as a complete ride or broken into sections. Athol Bridge Counter showed 7,240 users Nov 15 Feb 16 15,000 uses per annum Up to 12,000 multi- day users per annum and 50,000 day users projected within 5 years of the trail and enabling services. 45 minutes from Queenstown 1 hour from Te Anau 1 hour from Wanaka. Trail begins and finishes near Queenstown which has direct international flights to and from Australia, a major cycling market. Begins with the TSS Earnslaw cruise from Queenstown across Lake Wakatipu, then extends south into rural Southland and returns to Lake Wakatipu. 156 km of the trail is open Multi-day ride or short ride combinations available. Begins with lake cruise on steamship TSS Earnslaw. Earnslaw Real Journeys. Shuttle transport, cycle hire and guided and independent day and multi-day cycling packages with accommodation are offered ( aroundthe mountains.co.nz/ our- rides/) SDC Lead other agencies as land administrators QLDC/NZTA/ LINZ/DOC/ Landcorp Resource consent granted but has been appealed. Decision to be announced in Over $10 million spent of potentially $14 million project. Strong political interest. Potential to release economic and social opportunities for small communities. If not completed will become a series of shorter day rides. Eyre Mountains/Taka Ra Haka Conservation Park Tracks Very low Upper Oreti, Mount Bee, Shepherd Creek Mataura River Many tracks for mountain biking with a variety of scenery and cycling terrain. 25 km + of tracks from the campsite to Boundary Hut and Forks Hut in the Mavora Lakes Conservation Park. Remote and front country trails primarily on 4WD tracks Conservation Park Improved promotion of opportunity Mavora Greenstone Walkway Low From State Highway 94 between Mossburn and Te Anau. COMMERCIAL TRAIL TOURS Around the Mountains Small group guided cycling tours on the ATMCT Sherpa Shuttle bus service available from November to mid April operating 7 days a week. Tour offered as a partnership between Real Journeys and the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail. Cycle tour company has been operating since Appendix Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 71 53

58 Name/ Location Use Access Infrastructure, Routes & Connections Associated Experiences, Services & Partnerships Planning, Tenure & Management Issues, Opportunities & Gaps MOUNTAIN BIKE PARKS AND TRAILS Elizabeth Park BMX track Moderate but static Off John Street and Lime Street, Invercargill Jump park with no buildings Lease from ICC Potential for relocation to Surrey Park to improve connection with cycling Sandy Point Mountain Bike Trails 17km of mostly grade 3 single track at Invercargill Easy and Intermediate grade track. High Use Limited by sandy and flat terrain. From Sandy Point Road Toilets, car park, signage. Managed by Southland Mountain Bike Club Forestry activity necessitates the need for trail redevelopment from time to time. Bluff Hill Cross Country Tracks High Use Invercargill City Council Gore Mountain Bike Track From Pope Road Gore District Council/ Department of Conservation Ivon Wilson Park, Te Anau Perenuka Mountain Bike Park, Te Anau 10km of trails on private land New facility in 2015 Single track Constructed by landholder with community assistance Private land Longwoods Forest, Orepuki Riding on management tracks One of the most popular backcountry endurance rides in Southland. Most well known route is the 47km trail to Bald Hill, from which there are extensive views. Department of Conservation/ Private Land Eyre Mountains Riding on management trails. Department of Conservation. 72 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 54

59 Name/ Location Use Access Infrastructure, Routes & Connections Associated Experiences, Services & Partnerships Planning, Tenure & Management Issues, Opportunities & Gaps MOUNTAIN BIKE PARKS AND TRAILS Welcome Rock Trails Privately-operated track on a high country sheep station in northern Southland on the border with the Otago District. Intermediate grade 3 track recommended for experienced single track riders Shared use trail also used for hiking. 1 hour and 5 minutes from Queenstown. A shuttle service is available from Queenstown and Te Anau to Garston. 27km single loop grade 3 track that can also be hiked. Starts at the Southland Ski Hut and loops back to same point. It costs $40 per adult to ride the trails. Two huts and a campsite on the trail are operated by Welcome Rock Trails and can be booked online. High country scenery. Accommodation on the hut in several forms: the historic Mud Hut, the modern Slate Hut, the converted wool shed known as the Iron Hut, and the Roaring Lion Camp. Baggage can be delivered to huts. Glamping accommodation available. Private trail on private land, track was constructed by landowner. Management trails in Fiordland National Park Endurance rides permissible on management trails, including the Borland Road, Percy Saddle and links to West Arm and Lake Manapouri. Department of Conservation COMMERCIAL MOUNTAIN BIKE TOURS None identified MOUNTAIN BIKE EVENTS The Farm Jam Held in March, combines naturalterrain freestyle motocross, BMX dirt and mountain-bike dirtjumping Winton, Central Southland Bannockburn Gutbuster Between northern Southland and Central Otago District 188 participants Garston, Northern Southland 250 participants in winter series Winter cross country series monthly event May- October. The Glenham Trainwreck Ride around 120 competitors Winter January Eastern Southland Southland Mountain Bike Clubs Info not available Mid-winter 4 & 8 hour Enduro (Sandy Point Mountain Bike Track) Appendix Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 73 55

60 Name/ Location Use Access Infrastructure, Routes & Connections Associated Experiences, Services & Partnerships Planning, Tenure & Management Issues, Opportunities & Gaps MOUNTAIN BIKE EVENTS Moonshine Trail Gore District mountain bike and running event for 15 years and over, various distances. 204 participants in 2016 Dolamore Park Some of the event is on private farmland only opened once a year for the event Sponsored by Mataura Licensing Trust Coordinated by Sport Southland Mount Linton Muster Mount Linton Station near Ohai and Nightcaps Downriver Dash on Around the Mountain Trail About 130 participants 120 participants in 2016 Courses range from 12 km to 40 km. 25 km course. BICYCLE SHOPS AND SERVICES (ROAD AND MTB) Ride Cycles Invercargill Cycle Surgery Invercargill Wensley Cycles Invercargill H & J Smith Invercargill Cross Road Cycles Gore Stocks road bikes, mountain bikes and bikes for leisurely recreational riding. Stocks road and mountain bikes, parts and equipment. Bike repairs and service. Bike hire. Stocks road and mountain bikes, parts and equipment. Bike repairs and service Stocks road and mountain bikes, parts and equipment. Bike repairs and service Stocks road and mountain bikes, parts and equipment. Bike repairs and service Organisers Tweed Rides social rides at a leisurely pace on safe routes visiting places of interest in and near Invercargill 51. Outside Sports Te Anau Stocks road and mountain bikes, parts and equipment. Bike repairs and service. Bike hire 51 Kennedy, D. (20 October 2015). Why Invercargill Should be a City of Cyclists. why-invercargill-should-be-city-of.html; Ride Cycles Facebook Page Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 56

61 Name/ Location Use Access Infrastructure, Routes & Connections Associated Experiences, Services & Partnerships Planning, Tenure & Management Issues, Opportunities & Gaps BICYCLE SHOPS AND SERVICES (ROAD AND MTB) Te Anau Mini Golf, Quadricycle and Bike Hire Te Anau Oban Visitor Centre Stewart Island Bike hire Visitor information and bike hire Six mountain bikes available for hire CYCLING CLUBS AND ASSOCIATIONS Cycling Southland Club runs approximately 8 major events each year 300 members Membership and participation static From Invercargill Velodrome generally. Sponsored by major supporting sponsors - ILT Foundation, SBS Bank, Yunca, SIT Zerofees, The Lion Foundation, Community Trust of Southland, Vital Signs Cycling Southland Southland Mountain Bike Club Based at Invercargill Has various local sponsors. Club maintains Bluff Hill Trails and Sandy Point Tracks Hokonui Bikers Social groups of MTB riders associated with the Southland Mountain Bike Club. Run regular rides. Te Anau Cycling Inc Focusses on the range of cycling in the area 40 members Fiordland Trails Trust Southland BMX Club Moderate Elizabeth Park, Invercargill Sponsored by Wensley s Cycles, ILT, Community Trust of Southland Lease from ICC Potential for relocation to Surrey Park to improve connection with cycling Gore BMX Club and track Low Hamilton Park, Gore Lease from GDC Low profile/ viability of club Appendix Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 75 57

62 APPENDIX E Strategies and Action A b c Improve basic infrastructure to encourage more people to cycle Develop and promote a suite of high quality cycling experiences Implement programmes to encourage people to cycle and raise safety awareness d e f g Support community cycling activities and participation-based events Assist the rejuvenation of competitive cycling events Support development of local cycle commissionable tourism products and partnerships Implement strong leadership, communication and cooperation Strategies and Actions Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 47 58

63 A Improve basic infrastructure to encourage more people to cycle Southland has a range of cycling trails, on-road cycle routes and cycling facilities including a major velodrome. However, improvements are needed to the region s infrastructure to meet demand for convenient, safe and enjoyable commuter and recreational cycling and encourage more people to cycle. Local cyclists have indicated that parts of the on-road cycle lane network and the shared trail network in the City of Invercargill require upgrading and improvements of linkages to provide a safe cycling network to the places where people wish to cycle. Cycle network linkages in Te Anau have also been identified as requiring attention. There have been some initiatives to improve cycling opportunities around towns (such as Gore, Te Anau and Winton) and planning and business cases for cycling, infrastructure in some towns, such as a possible cycling and walking path between the nearby towns of Edendale and Wyndham to address a road safety issue. However, overall there remains a need to improve the range of cycling infrastructure in and near the region s towns. To date Southland has suffered from limited cohesive forward planning and the absence of shovel ready projects when funding (such as New Zealand Transport Agency cycle funding) has become available. Cycle-friendly and safety features on major roads and other popular cycling routes could improve the attractiveness of road cycling in the region. A wider range and improved quality of trails is desirable at existing mountain biking parks in the region to meet demand for a wide range of mountain biking experiences, including for families and beginner riders. These infrastructure improvements will improve cycling opportunities for local residents and for the region s increasing number of visitors. Existing cycle network in Invercargill. Community support for cycling improvements. Mountain biking infrastructure near population centres. Review of Invercargill cycle network needs to improve opportunities for cycle commuting and recreation. Completion of the Invercargill to Bluff Cycleway. Designation and improvement of road cycling routes near population centres. Development of shovel ready projects for funding under government programmes such as the National Land Transport Programme. Road cycling safety in urban and rural areas. Few cycling safety measures on highways and rural roads. Lack of connectivity in parts of the Invercargill cycle network. Limited facilities and services for cyclists on routes and trails. Limited range of mountain bike trail difficult levels, including for families. Need for more family-friendly facilities. Limited funds and other resources for cycling developments. Missed opportunities for funding. Lack of effective governance to deliver improved cycling opportunities. Non-completion of Invercargill to Bluff Cycleway. Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats 48 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 59

64 Action Description Priority A1 A2 A3 A4 A5 A6 A7 A8 A9 A10 A11 A12 A13 Conduct an audit of cycling conditions on major urban and rural road cycling routes in Southland to» identify primary and secondary routes for cycling, including routes connecting main cycling commuting and recreational destinations.» develop a plan for safety improvement and cycle-friendly measures consistent with the latest New Zealand standards. Re-assess the on-road cycling and off-road shared path networks in the City of Invercargill to identify route and trail construction, linkages, design and signage and safety measures required to ensure cyclists are able to travel safely and efficiently for transport and recreational purposes. Develop a master plan for implementing the reviewed on-road cycling and off-road shared path recommendations from Action A2. Investigate development of a cycle lane or cycle trail from the Invercargill airport to the city and the provision of cycle-friendly facilities (such as bike racks) at the airport. Encourage the provision of distinctive bicycle racks and other cycle friendly infrastructure (such as pumps, changing facilities) at urban and other popular cycling destinations, including the airport. Develop and communicate a timeline and plan for the development of the Invercargill to Bluff Cycleway including the route, construction costs, maintenance, interpretation and funding. Ensure construction is to a standard that encourages wide use and includes supporting infrastructure such as rest areas, shelters, toilets, local information and interpretation. Support and fund local community based initiatives to improve cycling opportunities in towns such as Waikaia, Winton, Riverton, Gore, Mataura, Edendale and Wyndham. Designate and promote cycle-friendly road cycling routes for recreational and training use originating in Invercargill, Gore and Te Anau with improved signage, enhanced usable road shoulder width and other cycle-friendly improvements. Develop shovel ready proposals for cycling infrastructure (including as relevant in cities, towns and rural areas) for funding under the New Zealand Transport Agency s cycling safety action plan and the National Land Transport Programme. Consider the development of a greater range of mountain biking opportunities at Sandy Point, Bluff, Croydon Bush, Ivon Wilson Park and the Te Anau Control Gates to address the greatest need. Implement consistent grading signage and standards across Southland mountain bike networks to assist in promoting Southland mountain biking to a range of users. Improve opportunities for BMX riding in Invercargill including co-locations with other cycling activity at Surrey Park. Support councils and relevant authorities and organisations in maintaining and making improvements in cycling infrastructure. This should include advocating the recognition of cycling as a mode of transport by regional road controlling authorities and consideration of cycling needs during road works. High High High Medium High High Ongoing Medium Ongoing High Medium Medium Ongoing Current Cycling in Southland Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 49 60

65 B Develop and promote a suite of high quality cycling experiences A small number of high quality road and trail cycling experiences for recreation and tourism markets will be offered in Southland. The development and promotion of these experiences will gain leverage from the presence of part of the New Zealand Cycle Trail (the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail) in the region, the region s cycling traditions such as the Tour of Southland and the proximity of the major Queenstown and Otago cycling destinations. The competition offered by Queenstown and Otago cycling destinations will be countered by distinctive Southland positioning of the cycling experiences as a strong pillar of the regional tourism strategy. Southland s cycling experiences will thus become an advantage, complementing the Queenstown cycling offer and, in come cases, also appealing to visitors and cyclists who prefer easier grade tracks. In the longer term any proposals for new off-road cycle trails will need to demonstrate community support, demand and a sound business case. While numerous proposals have been put forward for new multi-day cycle trails in the region there is evidence to suggest that local and visiting cycle markets are more likely to seek day, weekend or 2 to 4 day experiences supported by linked products and services. The market focus for the suite of cycling experiences will be on:» Road Tourers Southland residents, domestic visitors and international visitors for whom the road journey is an intrinsic part of the visit and a major reason for visiting the region» Holiday and Soft Adventure Trail Cyclists Southland residents, domestic and international visitors seeking an immersive trail experience» Location-based Holiday Cyclists A diverse group of visitors for whom a cycling experience is one of several activities undertaken at a destination» Mountain Bikers Southland residents, domestic and international mountain bikers seeking a special mountain biking experience different from other places or with a reputation for challenge and/or a distinctive landscape. The improvements in infrastructure (Strategy A) will underlie the development of cycling experiences. Existing cycle network in Invercargill. Community support for cycling improvements. Mountain biking infrastructure near population centres. Designation of Heartland Rides. Development of ride and trailrelated products and support services to improve experiences. Improved information and promotion of cycle experiences. Barriers to completion of the Te Anau to Manapouri Cycleway. Lack of designated Heartland Rides. Limited development of products and services. Poor awareness of market demand for cycling infrastructure and products. Limited funds and other resources for cycling developments. Missed opportunities for funding. Lack of effective governance to deliver improved cycling opportunities. Non-completion of the Around the Mountain Cycle Trail. Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats 50 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 61

66 Action Description Priority B1 Investigate, designate and promote a range of quality road riding itineraries as Heartland Rides. High B2 Design and install cycling route signage. High B3 B4 B5 Complete and promote the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail for day and multiday soft adventure experiences and encourage development of with self-guided and guided products and supporting transport, accommodation services and interpretation. Encourage greater focus on the Southland areas of the Around the Mountain Cycle Trail through the development of trail-related products and attractions based in Southland. Encourage the completion of the Te Anau to Manapouri Cycleway on the route through Fiordland National Park to ensure a quality visitor experience. High High Medium B6 Support a review of the Fiordland National Park Management Plan investigating low impact cycling opportunities within the front country of the National Park. Ongoing B7 B8 B9 B10 Provide comprehensive information on cycling experiences on tourism websites, visitor information centres and the Southland cycling website. Information should include maps, details of each ride (distances, elevations, difficulty); cycle-friendly services, food and accommodation; booking links; bicycle shops and transport. The information should be available in both paper and digital forms, including as downloadable apps. Promote Southland cycling experiences as a major pillar in tourism planning and part of Southland tourism marketing through a variety of media, social media (such as Trip Advisor) and marketing and public relations campaigns. Establish a monitoring system to obtain information on use of major cycling trails including the Around the Mountain Cycle Trail, the Te Anau to Manapouri Trail and the Invercargill to Bluff Trails and to demonstrate the contribution of cycling to the economy. Undertake business cases into the best options for developing future multi-day trail ride journeys in Southland. High & Ongoing Medium & Ongoing Medium Low Strategies and Actions Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 51 62

67 c Implement programmes to encourage people to cycle and raise safety awareness Awareness and education programs will assist in increasing cycling participation by raising Southland residents confidence to cycle and improving their understanding of the benefits of cycling. These programmes include promotion of the social, health and environmental effects of cycling; provision of information on cycling opportunities; cycle safety campaigns and cycling training programmes. Council willingness to be involved in road safety awareness improvement. High buy-in to Share the Road and Learn to Ride programmes. Established collaboration between Cycling Southland and road safety programmes. Strong network of cycling clubs to assist in encouraging cycling participation and developing safety awareness. Campaign to encourage more cycling and education on benefits. Extend existing Share the Road programme. Range of cyclist training programmes for different ages and skill levels, including through schools. Improved Learn to Ride facilities. Limited Learn to Ride facilities. Lack of safety awareness by drivers and cyclists. Use of volunteers for Share the Road and Learn to Ride programmes affects reliability of delivery. Relatively low uptake of cycling for transport. Southland weather. Limited funds and other resources existing programmes are under-resourced. Lack of effective governance for coordinating delivery. Low population numbers affecting resources. Lack of traffic congestion as a driver for commuter cycling. Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats 52 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 63

68 Action Description Priority C1 Develop and implement a campaign to promote cycling as a desirable activity and form of exercise with health and environmental benefits, using a variety of messages to target different groups including children, young people and families. The campaign should be linked, as appropriate, to other health and exercise initiatives. High C2 Provide information on cycling opportunities to residents through a variety of media and a central information source including a core cycling website and links to other relevant sites. Ongoing C3 Consolidate and extend the Share the Road campaign targeting schools, youth groups, adult cyclists, motorists and truck drivers to build awareness and promote safe cycling and road sharing practices. High C4 Develop and implement a range of cyclist training programmes for different ages, skill levels and cycling types taking account of the New Zealand Transport Agency guidelines. High C5 Improve access to Learn to Ride parks. High C6 Investigate a new Learn to Ride facility that is open to the public at a prominent location in Invercargill. The facility should include road safety opportunities but also skill based facilities like a mini-pump track. Medium C7 Develop further open-access Learn to Ride facilities in other city parks and throughout Southland including mini-pump tracks and circuits that are fun and safe for children. Low C8 Encourage the use of power assisted electric bikes (E-bikes) to improve participation in cycling for commuting and recreation. Low Strategies and Actions Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 53 64

69 d Support community cycling activities and participation-based events The benefits of improved cycling infrastructure and cycling promotion will be better realised if residents have easy access to enjoyable recreational and social cycling activities. Such activities will attract Southland residents to cycle more and will assist in expanding the cycling culture in the region. While there are already various social cycling activities and participation events throughout the region better promotion to a range of cycling markets, families, young people and older people would assist in attracting more participants. There is the potential for social riding to expand as evidenced in the recent success of the Tweed Rides developed by an Invercargill bike shop. Strong network of cycling clubs to offer or support riding opportunities. Velodrome facilities. Community cycling programmes run by Cycling Southland and Sport Southland. Strong cycling traditions, including the Tour of Southland. Encouragement of young people to cycle through programmes and club/school activities. Extension of velodrome and other cycling programmes. Development of community awareness and celebration of cycling traditions. Low local participation in cycling events and competitions. Programmes for young people across the range of cycling types. Lack of a developed cycling culture in the region the potential of the region s strong cycling history has not been fully realised. Limited funds and other resources. Lack of effective governance for coordinating delivery. Low population numbers affecting resources. Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats Action Description Priority D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 D6 Work with social and community groups, youth groups, cycling clubs, Cycling Southland and Sport Southland to encourage and promote a range of social cycling activities. Work with cycling clubs, schools, Cycling Southland and Sport Southland to encourage programmes to introduce young people to the different types of cycling. Support the development and promotion of a wide range of participation programmes and events based around the Velodrome, including learn to ride, BMX, mountain biking, programmes for elderly riders and community programmes run by Cycling Southland and Sport Southland. Encourage use of social media and the Southland cycling website to develop cycling networks and activities. Increase awareness of and celebrate successful cycling events, including the Southland Mountain Bike Club Winter Series, the Milford Mountain Classic and other events that are seeing strong growth and are accessible to local residents. Consider the development of a Festival of Cycling in association with other events already held in Invercargill, such as the Tour of Southland. Medium High Ongoing Ongoing Ongoing Medium 54 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 65

70 e Assist the rejuvenation of competitive cycling events Southland has a strong history of competitive cycling represented in the long-running Tour of Southland (New Zealand s premier multi-day road cycling race) and track racing at the Invercargill velodrome. There is a range of competitive events at the junior, club and elite levels for road and track cycling and mountain biking events (some of which are in areas only accessible for riding during competitions such as the -Moonshine Ride). However, the region s competitive cycling focus has been affected by the growth in cycling events throughout New Zealand. Participation in competitive cycling in Southland is static except for some growth in mountain bike competing. With the opening of the Avantidrome at Cambridge on the North Island in 2014, the Invercargill SIT Velodrome is no longer the only indoor venue for national and international track competitions. Tour of Southland and other major cycling events with a distinctive Southland character. Velodrome. Increasing interest in mountain biking events. Committed organising bodies. Increase in school sports cycling events to encourage interest in competitive cycling. Hosting of more second tier competitions. Improved promotion of major events Signature event on the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail. Participation by young people. Lack of trail events such as occur on the New Zealand Cycle Trail in other places. Limited development and promotion of experiences for event spectators. Limited funds and other resources. Proliferation of cycling events in other places leading to competition for Southland events. Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats Action Description Priority E1 E2 E3 E4 Encourage school sports day and inter-school cycling competition across the disciplines of road cycling, track cycling, BMX and mountain biking. Identify hosting opportunities for second tier national and international cycling events, such as masters and youth/secondary schools events across the disciplines of road cycling, track cycling, BMX and mountain biking. Improve promotion of major cycling events such as the Tour of Southland, the Southland Mountain Bike Club Winter Series, the Great Southern Cycling Challenge and the Milford Mountain Classic to increase awareness and attract participants and spectators. Investigate the establishment of a signature event for the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail to raise awareness of the opportunity the trail offers. Medium Medium High Medium Strategies and Actions Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 55 66

71 f Support development of local cycle commissionable tourism products and partnerships Products and services that cater for the needs of visiting and local cyclists are an important feature of places that have a strong local cycling culture and that attract visiting cyclists. In addition to providing retail and repair services, bike shops in many places have evolved as sources of cycling information, meeting places, activity centres and bike hire and bike tour operators. Cafes have become destinations and meeting places for weekend road and trial riders. The attraction of an area or a route for recreational cyclists will be improved if there are attractions that can be visited en route. Globally, local businesses now offer cycle-friendly accommodation, food, transport and attractions along road and trail cycling routes and such services have come to be expected by many cycle tourists undertaking both short and long journeys. Many regions have implemented cycle-friendly services schemes where local businesses are accredited for provision of services that suit the needs of cyclists and assist to streamline their journey. Important features of these schemes for accommodation include opening hours that suit cyclists, bicycle storage, areas for washing and drying clothing and equipment, access to bicycle repair facilities, weather information, and access to food and meals. In Southland there has been some development of accommodation and transport for cyclists in relation to the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail. There is potential to develop and/or better promote cycle-friendly services and products along the proposed cycle tourism routes in Southland through offering support and mentoring. Established relationships between Councils and tourism/ business operators. Established cycle retail and repair businesses. Examples of local investment in cycling infrastructure and products. Established outdoor recreation and visitor markets with some similar needs to cyclists. Guidelines for cyclefriendly services. Capacity building - educating and mentoring businesses and operators on the benefits of offering cycle-friendly products and services. Development of volunteer and industry partnerships for trail management and maintenance. Limited development of cycle-friendly products and services, mainly in relation to the Around the Mountains Cycle Trail. Lack of knowledge of and/or incentives for development of cycle-friendly products. Distance of Southland from major population centres. Limited funds and other resources for cycling infrastructure development. Building investment impetus - industry reluctance to risk investment in new products and services at the early stages of cycling development. Perceptions of competition from nerby cycling destinations. Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats 56 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 67

72 Action Description Priority F1 Develop guidelines for provision of cycle-friendly services in Southland. High F2 F3 As cycling experiences and routes are developed, hold experience development workshops with local businesses, accommodation operators, tour operators, transport services, local government to build awareness of the needs of cyclists and the benefits of offering cycle-friendly services and experiences linked to cycle tourism. Develop a programme for mentoring and business development advice for local enterprises establishing cycle-friendly services and products. This programme could be linked to other tourism or business support programs. Medium Medium F4 Encourage availability of more bicycle hire near cycle trails and road cycling routes. Medium Strategies and Actions Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 57 68

73 g Implement strong leadership, communication and cooperation At present, there is no one body acting as an advocate and taking a leadership role for achieving cycling improvements in Southland across all aspects of commuter, recreational, competitive and tourism cycling. The three territorial authorities are all involved in providing and maintaining cycling infrastructure and promoting road safety. Cycling Southland is primarily active in competitive cycling and has also implemented a number participation-based and safety programmes. Sport Southland is particularly involved in the delivery of participation-based events. Community and user groups such as the Southland Mountain Bike Club, Hokonui Trails Trust and Fiordland Trails Trust have been active in fundraising and trail development and maintenance. Not-for-profit volunteer groups and local councils face challenges in funding and progressing cycling projects. On the other hand, community and user groups are a valuable resource by assisting with cycle and mountain bike trail construction and maintenance. Improved coordination of cycling advocacy, development and funding is desirable to progress cycling in Southland and coordinate collaborative implementation of the Southland Cycling Strategy. Potential governance model is:» Governance group - a representative panel of councillors from Southland District Council, Invercargill City Council and Gore District Council supported by staff member and representatives from Department of Conservation, Sport Southland, Venture Southland, Cycling Southland and key cycling stakeholders» Supported by an independent skills-based implementation group with an independent chair assisted by representation from the councils and key stakeholders. This model could be effective if provided with assistance and administrative support from a regional organisation. A cycling coordinator could assist the governance and implementation group with the cycling strategy implementation. The role of the cycling coordinator might include:» acting as executive support for the governance and implementation group» advocating, leading and collaborating to implement priority actions identified in this Strategy» together with implementation group raising funds and establishing partnerships for the implementation of priority actions identified in this Strategy» monitoring progress on Strategy implementation and providing a central point for cycling participation data. Several agencies and organisations with a record of cycling development. Institution of a governance group to implement the Southland Cycling Strategy. Funding and appointment of a cycling coordinator to support the governance and implementation group No governance mechanism for coordinating cycling improvements. Limited funds and resources for governance. Lack of commitment by implementation partners. Improved use of community and user groups partnerships. Strengths Opportunities Weaknesses Threats 58 Southland Cycling Strategy August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 69

74 Action Description Priority G1 Agree to a governance model for coordination and ongoing implementation for the Cycling Strategy and establish this as an effective structure with appropriate resourcing. High G2 Establish and fund a position of Southland cycling coordinator for a three year period to implement the strategy, support governance and pursue funding. Medium G3 Encourage and support partnerships with local communities, cycling clubs and groups for trail management and maintenance. Medium Appendix Ride Southland - Cycling Southland Strategy Cycling Strategy 59 70

75 Appendix F Southland cycle Strategic case THE SOUTHLAND CYCLE NETWORK Southland s cycling network will be developed over time and will consist of:» a core cycle network - improvements to existing cycling trails and routes that will be developed as the first priority» potential future developments - to be examined over time subject to demand and a sound business case Actions to develop the relevant infrastructure are described in the actions in chapter 6. Core Cycle Network Invercargill on-road and off-road cycle network Linked cycling network to ensure people are able to cycle safely and efficiently for transport and recreation (Actions A2, A3 and A4) Learn to Ride facilities in Invercargill Improved access (Action C5) BMX facilities in Invercargill and Gore Invercargill Velodrome Venue for community cycling programs, training, competitions and events (Action D3) Invercargill to Bluff Cycleway (Action A6) Cycle-friendly road routes originating in Invercargill, Gore and Te Anau On-road cycling routes suitable for local recreational cycling and training and development of required safety infrastructure and promotion (Action A8) Around the Mountains Cycle Trail Southland s signature trail cycling experience with supporting services, products and promotion (Actions B3, B4) Heartland Rides Quality road riding itineraries suitable for riding by locals and visitors (Actions B1, B2) Potential Future Developments Other towns Consideration of community based initiatives for cycling infrastructure in other towns subject to audit of cycling needs, funding and business cases (Actions A1, A7). Learn to Ride and skills based facilities for children in Invercargill and other towns. Other cycle trails Consideration of other multi-day ride journeys subject to funding, demand and business cases (Action B10). Backcountry Mountain Biking Improved management and maintenance of mountain biking on management tracks and provision for ridings at other places on public conservation lands subject to actions by the Department of Conservation under the Southland Murihiki Conservation Management Strategy and the review of the Fiordland National Park Management Plan. Te Anau to Manapouri Cycleway Completed cycleway subject to consideration under the review of the Fiordland National Park Management Plan (Action B5) Mountain Biking near population centres Improved range of opportunities at mountain biking facilities at Sandy Point, Bluff, Croydon Bush, Ivon Wilson Park and Te Anau Control Gates with consistent grading, signage and standards (Actions A10 and A11) Figure 5: Current major cycling opportunities in Southland Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 71

76 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme Strategic Context Cycling is a popular activity in Southland engaging 29% of the region s population, higher than the average 24.8% for New Zealand as a whole. In August 2016 a cycling strategy was commissioned on behalf of the councils of Southland to provide guidance for organisations involved with the development, governance and delivery of cycling across the province. The vision of the cycling strategy is to improve cycling safety and participation in Southland. This ILM was developed in response to a need to align with the business case approach of NZTA such that appropriate projects can access NLTP funding where a case exists. Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Version no: Workshop: Last modified by: Template version: 3 Desktop assessment Mark Young 5.0 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 72

77 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme The Title Improving Cycling Safety and Participation in Southland Southland o Regional boundaries including Bluff Cycling Participation o Road cycling o Off-road cycling o Mountain biking o BMX riding All these facilities support: o Commuter cycling o Recreational cycling o Cycle tourism o Competitive cycling Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Version no: 3 Workshop: Desktop assessment Last modified by: Mark Young Template version: Ride 5.0 Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 73

78 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme Safety Evidence (past 20 years?) Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Version no: 3 Workshop: Desktop assessment Last modified by:ridemark Young Southland - Southland Template version: 5.0 Cycling Strategy 74

79 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme Safety Evidence (Community at Risk Register) Cyclist involved 2017 Register PERSONAL RISK Ranking DSI/Mhrs Territorial Authority 189 Invercargill City 30 Kapiti Coast District Standard Deviation 1 STDEV COLLECTIVE RISK PERSONAL RISK 5yr AVG DSI DSI/Mhrs Road Safety Regions COLLECTIVE RISK 3 4 NORTHLAND AUCKLAND WAIKATO BAY OF PLENTY 8 5 5yr AVG DSI 22 Grey District 22 Taupo District 17 Westland District 0 6 TARANAKI 16 Auckland Urban Central 22 3 MANAWATU WANGANUI 8 15 Rotorua District 2 10 GISBORNE 2 15 Queenstown Lakes District 4 7 HAWKE'S BAY 8 15 Nelson City 5 7 WELLINGTON Tauranga City 4 8 TASMAN NELSON MARLBOROUGH 8 11 Waitomo District 0 16 WEST COAST 2 11 Whakatane District 1 2 CANTERBURY New Plymouth District 4 7 OTAGO Hastings District 5 63 SOUTHLAND 3 10 Hamilton City 7 10 Gisborne District 2 7 NATIONAL Dunedin City STDEV 9 Buller District 9 Auckland Urban West MEAN Hauraki District 1 8 Opotiki District 0 8 Wairoa District 0 8 Thames Coromandel District 1 8 Christchurch City 35 8 Auckland Urban North 6 8 Waipa District 2 7 Wellington City 14 7 Napier City 2 7 Waikato District 2 6 Far North District 1 6 Wanganui District 2 6 South Taranaki District 1 6 Palmerston North City 4 6 Tasman District 2 5 Auckland Urban South 7 5 Hutt City 3 5 Western Bay Of Plenty District 1 5 South Wairarapa District 0 5 Auckland Rural North 1 4 Whangarei District 2 4 Marlborough District 1 4 Central Otago District 1 4 Carterton District 0 4 Waitaki District 1 4 Timaru District 2 4 Central Hawkes Bay District 0 4 Ruapehu District 0 3 Horowhenua District 1 3 Porirua City 1 3 Manawatu District 1 3 South Waikato District 0 3 Auckland Rural South 1 2 Kaipara District 0 2 Upper Hutt City 1 2 Matamata Piako District 0 2 Waimakariri District 1 2 Masterton District 0 2 Clutha District 0 1 Waimate District 0 1 Hurunui District 0 1 Selwyn District 1 1 Kaikoura District 0 1 Kawerau District 0 1 Ashburton District Environment Southland Russell Hawkes 0 Gore District Facilitator: Mark Young 0 Mackenzie District Accredited Facilitator: Yes 0 Otorohanga District Rangitikei District 0 0 Southland District 0 Version no: 3 Workshop: Desktop assessment Last modified by:ride Mark Young Southland - Southland Template version: 5.0 Cycling Strategy 75

80 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme Other Evidence (Cycling Strategy) o 2 nd most popular physical sport/recreation activity after walking (3 rd in NZ) o 3% increase in cycling participation in New Zealand over past 10 years o 29% of Southland residents (26,000 adults) cycle at least once per year o 2.9% participate in cycling events o 12.7% increase in visitor guest nights to Southland in 2016 o 300 people/annum volunteer time & skills to Southland cycle groups o 81% of 2016 cycling survey respondents believe cycling was a good investment for councils o 56% of 2016 cycling respondents concerned about safety on Southland urban roads o 71% of 2016 cycling respondents concerned about safety on Southland rural roads o 10% Southland primary school students cycle (declining) o 1.8% Southland residents choose cycling as main mean of commuting to work (declining) o 20% of Invercargill on-road cycle lanes incomplete o Oreti Beach to Invercargill cycle lane has potential but needs significant improvement o Invercargill airport has no dedicated cycling access & facilities o NZCT : The Lake Wakatipu to Te Anau cycling trip is currently the most popular route and receives fewer than 1,000 cyclists a year. o ATMCT will be a significant New Zealand cycle trail aiming to attract up to 12,000 multi- day and about 50,000 day cyclists annually within 5 years of opening o Heartland Rides under development o 5 well used recreational road riding routes (Myross Bush, Catlins, Riverton- Tuatapere, Hedgehope, Gore) all with no supporting infrastructure o 3 potential road riding tourism routes (Southern Scenic, Catlins, Southern Traverse) less than 1,000 cycle tourists/year & no supporting infrastructure o 3 off-road trails (Around the Mountains, Eyre Mountains, Mavora) o 10 mountain bike parks & trails variable use Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Version no: Workshop: Last modified by: Template version: 3 Desktop assessment Mark Young 5.0 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 76

81 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Improving Cycling Safety and Participation in Southland Programme Issues & Opportunities Issues Opportuni-es o Road safety issues (Invercargill) o Road safety issues traffic volume increases from tourism & dairy industry eg Invercargill to Bluff road o Lack of cycle lanes (rural roads) o Lack of cycle road shoulders (rural roads) o Lack of funds for cycling infrastructure development o Lack of cycle faciliwes for families o Lack of cycle faciliwes for recreawonal riders o Lack of cycle faciliwes for tourists o Lack of cycle ameniwes bike racks, toilets o Lack of mountain biking near urban areas (Invercargill, Gore, Te Anau) o Trails not always well maintained o Falling parwcipawon in cycling events o Lack of cycleway interconnecwvity o Small scale of mountain biking faciliwes o Some connecwvity issues in parts of Invercargill network o Limited faciliwes & services o Limited learn to ride faciliwes o Lack of safety awareness by drivers & cyclists o Lack of developed cycling culture in the region o Lack of cyclist warning signs o Lack of accurate & reliable info on cycling faciliwes & parwcipawon o Lack of projects highlighted in RLTP & AMPs o Lack of co-ordinated response to cycling o Some projects developed without co-ordinated strategy o Improved health through exercise parwcipawon o Improved liveability of region o Environmental benefits (noise & greenhouse gas) o Economic diversificawon o ReducWon in travel Wmes o Transport cost savings for cyclists o E-bike opwons o Around the Mountains Cycle Trail (ATMCT) 3 Key Themes were identified around Safety, Accessibility & Co-ordination Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Version no: Workshop: Last modified by: Template version: 3 Desktop assessment Mark Young 5.0 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 77

82 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme Improving Cycling Safety and Participation in Southland PROBLEM Urban Safety (50%) Lack of cycle infrastructure & poor road user behaviour in urban areas, parwcularly Invercargill, results in risks to personal safety and deters cycle use. BENEFIT Improved road user safety (60%) KPI1: Reduce cycle related deaths & serious injuries KPI2: Reduce cycle related crash rate Evidence Cycling crash stats Community at risk register Number of dedicated cycle lanes 2016 cycling survey Reduction in cycling Regional Accessibility (30%) Limited number of inter-connected cycle routes and ameniwes in the region restricts cycling opportuniwes for commuters, school travel, recreawonal users & tourists Evidence Number of cycling amenities Number of family cycle options Number of mountain bike tracks NZCT & Heartland rides 2016 cycling survey Improved community connecwvity and social wellbeing (30%) KPI1: Increased spawal coverage cycle lanes/paths KPI2: Increase community sawsfacwon Regional Co-ordination (20%) Lack of co-ordinawon of cycle iniwawves across the region limits social and economic opportuniwes for Southland ContribuWon to economic growth and producwvity (10%) KPI1: Increase desired cycle throughput Evidence Lack of regional joined up plan 2016 cycling survey Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Note Improving cycling participation would also produce some secondary benefits in terms of health & the environment Version no: Workshop: Last modified by: Template version: 3 Desktop assessment Mark Young 5.0 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 78

83 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme Improving Cycling Safety and Participation in Southland Benefit Investment KPI Measure Descrip-on Baseline Target Improved road user safety (60%) Reduce cycle related deaths & serious injuries Number of deaths & serious injuries by mode Number of deaths & serious injuries involving cyclists TBC TBC Reduce cycle related crash rate Number of cycling crashes Number of crashes involving cyclists TBC TBC Improved community connecwvity and social wellbeing (30%) Increased spawal coverage for cycles % spawal coverage cycles % spawal coverage cycles TBC TBC Increase community sawsfacwon Community feedback surveys Community transport surveys TBC TBC ContribuWon to economic growth and producwvity (10%) Increase desired cycle throughput Number of cyclists by category/route Number of cycling tourist visits TBC TBC Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Version no: Workshop: Last modified by: Template version: 3 Desktop assessment Mark Young 5.0 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 79

84 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme Improving Cycling Safety and Participation in Southland PROBLEM BENEFIT INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES Urban Safety (50%) Lack of cycle infrastructure & poor road user behaviour in urban areas, parwcularly Invercargill, results in risks to personal safety and deters cycle use. Improved road user safety (60%) KPI1: Reduce cycle related deaths & serious injuries KPI2: Reduce cycle related crash rate Investment Objective One To achieve a declining trend of cycle related crashes on Southland roads by 2025? Evidence Cycling crash stats Community at risk register Number of dedicated cycle lanes 2016 cycling survey Reduction in cycling Regional Accessibility (30%) Limited number of inter-connected cycle routes and ameniwes in the region restricts cycling opportuniwes for commuters, school travel, recreawonal users & tourists Evidence Number of cycling amenities Number of family cycle options Number of mountain bike tracks NZCT & Heartland rides 2016 cycling survey Regional Co-ordination (20%) Improved community connecwvity and social wellbeing (30%) KPI1: Increased spawal coverage cycle lanes/paths KPI2: Increase community sawsfacwon Investment Objective Two To increase the number of completed & connected cycle routes in Southland by 2025? Lack of co-ordinawon of cycle iniwawves across the region limits social and economic opportuniwes for Southland ContribuWon to economic growth and producwvity (10%) KPI1: Increase desired cycle throughput Investment Objective Three To achieve an increasing trend in cycling parwcipawon for Southland residents and tourists by 2025? Evidence Lack of regional joined up plan 2016 cycling survey Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Version no: Workshop: Last modified by: Template version: 3 Desktop assessment Mark Young 5.0 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 80

85 Environment Southland Southland Cycle Strategic Case INVESTMENT LOGIC MAP Programme Improving Cycling Safety and Participation in Southland Investment Story in a Nutshell The Problem (WHY) Cycling is a the second most popular recreational activity in Southland engaging 29% of the region s population, higher than the New Zealand average. Southland councils have worked hard to encourage cycling over recent years. However, there is still a lack of cycle infrastructure in urban areas, limited inter-connectivity and some lack of co-ordination of cycle initiatives across the region. The resulting safety risks and lack of cycling opportunities deters more people from cycling which has social and economic impacts for the region. The Benefits (WHAT) Any investment to address these problems would primarily improve road user safety, improve community connectivity and social wellbeing. It would also contribute to the economic growth and productivity as more people are attracted to the region. The Strategic Responses (HOW) To be confirmed but investment would need to include: Improvements to address safety issues Improvements to address accessability issues Improvements to address co-ordination issues Environment Southland Russell Hawkes Facilitator: Mark Young Accredited Facilitator: Yes Version no: Workshop: Last modified by: Template version: 3 Desktop assessment Mark Young 5.0 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 81

86 Appendix F Latest IVS tourism Cycle stats

87 August 2016 Ride Southland - Southland Cycling Strategy 82

88 Submitter No 36 Southern District Health Board

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92 Submitter No 42 Dave Riddell

93 Dave Riddell Name - Name: Postal address - Postal address: Postcode - Postcode: Phone - Phone: - Hearing - When Councillors hear submissions on the Long-term Plan consultation document, do you want to present your views in person? Water improvement rate - Do you support an increase of our water improvement activity through the introduction of a new water improvement rate in 2019/20? Revenue and Financing Policy Review - Do you agree with retaining the dairy differential rate for a further year to contribute to the Water Improvement activity? File upload - Use this section if you want to attach supporting documentation. Dave Riddell Hokonui, RD2 Winton riddelldc@gmail.com Yes Option 2 Preferred Option

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95 Submitter No 32 Venture Southland

96 To: Long Term Plan Environment Southland P O Box Invercargill May 2018 RE: VENTURE SOUTHLAND SUBMISSION TO THE ENVIRONMENT SOUTHLAND LONG- TERM PLAN Thank you for the opportunity to submit on the Environment Southland Long-term Plan. Recent Government policy on Climate Change and multi-mode transport, electric vehicle and carbon emissions reduction targets as well as legislation changes that are intended for the local Government Act and the creation of the Zero Carbon Act have huge implications for all aspects of environmental, land-use and extreme weather planning. Venture Southland support the focus on ensuring that we are not only preparing our region for the impacts of climate change but also implementing initiatives that address the cause of climate change. It is recognised that the New Zealand ratification to the Paris Agreement and the independent Climate Commission s report may have implications for community and businesses to reduce their emissions. The recent Ministry for the Environment Greenhouse Gas Inventory report showed emissions from agriculture to be 49.2%, road transport to be 17.3% and industrial processes and product use 6.2% in Emissions were down 2.4% from 2015, however sound regional strategy development and implementation is required to reduce our emissions by 30% below the 2005 levels by Government has given strong signals that there will be an active focus on reducing our carbon emissions and developing both national and regional targets. We wish to see the inclusion of the above mentioned policies and reports as part of the long-term plan to strengthen our local economy and future proof the region. Air Quality Venture Southland has been coordinating the Wood Energy South project since 2014 in collaboration with central and local Government, industry associations and the business community. There has been strong interest from state sector agencies, commercial and industrial organisations to reduce their emissions and improve air quality for our community. The business community has expressed that it would be of benefit for them to having clear signals on the requirement and timeframes on the implementation of the National Air Quality standards. Guidelines will allow existing operations and those investing in carbon reduction to make decision that will meet Air standards and potentially meet the carbon reduction targets. As you may be aware infrastructure planning often requires long-term investment and it would therefore be helpful for businesses to be aware of future regulations. Transport

97 The Government Policy Statement for land transport has set a clear direction on focusing on a multi-modal transport system. To enable our region to remain competitive, increase productivity, reduce emissions, improve health and to remain a great place to live we need accessible and efficient road systems connected and integrated with rail, cycling and walking. There is a need to ensure that there is an integrated approach towards developing changing infrastructure as part of the Councils transport function. One major contribution to carbon emission is heavy transport and the mismatch between road load capacity and bridge weight carrying capacity. Venture Southland therefore urges Environment Southland to work with local Councils to prioritise the strengthening and replacement of weight restricted bridges in Southland and support alternative transport, cycling and walking infrastructure considerations related matters. We believe that we can drive change on a local level, that will future proof our economy, provide our businesses with a competitive advantage and will work towards cutting carbon emissions in our wonderful region, Southland. We look forward to hearing from you. Yours faithfully Stephen Canny GM Business and Strategic Projects

98 Submitter No 1 Greg Rzesniowiecki

99 27 March 2018 Greg Rzesniowiecki To: All NZ Territorial Authorities and Regional Councils Subject: For consideration in your 2018 Annual Plan and/or Long Term Plan Greetings Mayor, Councillors and Staff, We write as engaged citizens in the New Zealand democracy. Previously in 2014 we wrote to you concerning the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) on behalf of the Motueka Renewables where we proposed the TPP Policy Solution. Arising from that a number of Councils engaged with the TPP matter and ultimately 12 Councils adopted the offered policy, many more noted and maintained a watching brief on the negotiations. Presentations were made to over 30 Councils some receiving presentations in multiple forums; workshop, committee and council. It is fair to say a few councils stated that TPP is not a council matter, however most took an active interest and thanked us for bringing it to their attention. In the later part of 2015 LGNZ (Local Government NZ) undertook an assessment on behalf of constituents. The resultant report concluded there were some risks to local government interests and some were down the track. We suggest that trade negotiations are of critical importance to all New Zealanders given the constitutional implications which alter the legal balance between human and property interests and rights. The TPP has been through a tumultuous process, agreed and signed 4 February 2016, then Trumped January Since then the remaining 11 nations have negotiated a new agreement signed 8 March 2018 in Chile called Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement on the Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). It is substantially the same agreement with 22 suspended provisions pending the return of the United States (US). Civil Society maintain our concern believing that the entrenchment and extension of property rights for foreign corporations will make it difficult for the NZ Government to ensure the wellbeing of all inhabitants. All councils will now appreciate the public concern for clean rivers, quality potable water and indignation at allocations from acquifers for bottled water exporters. Whatever your council's attitude, it is acknowledged by Trade Minister Parker that CPTPP would disallow a tax on exported water as it is deemed discrimatory under the CPTPP regime. 1

100 With regard to Air NZ Shane Jones public spat regarding regional air services - the State Owned Enterprises (SOE) Chapter 17 of CPTPP, highlights the government must ensure that Air NZ operates on a purely commercial basis when delivering domestic services unless it has issued a public mandate for it to do otherwise. It's great that regional Mayors are proactive on behalf of their regions and provincial cities. Parliament is displaying bipartisan support for Jones' stance. There's no way the NZ Government has anticipated every angle before locking NZ into CPTPP. The attached paper also deals with the unfolding Facebook Cambridge Analytics election hacking scandal which demonstrates the dilemma of losing control of one's personal data the CPTPP E- Commerce Chapter guarantees that the NZ Government will be powerless to prevent misuse of data as NZ will not have any legal right to demand that data is retained in NZ. CPTPP imposes many constraints on NZ governance, entrenches corporation rights (ISDS) and leaves NZ exposed to whatever amendments are negotiated upon the return of the US which appears likely given statements from their corporate sector. LGNZ Conference this year is in Christchurch from July The 2018 conference theme is; We are firmly focused on the future: Future-proofing for a prosperous and vibrant New Zealand. There will be a strong focus on leadership and addressing the big challenges and opportunities facing New Zealand and its communities. Question to LGNZ - How does TPP/CPTPP future proof NZ? We wish you well in your deliberations. Please consider the attached evidence paper and recommendations for your 2018 Annual Plan and Long Term Planning processes. We offer four specific recommendations (detail in the attached paper); Recommendation #1 (page 13 attachment) We suggest that the Council considers formally supporting the 23 principles offered by Alfred de Zayas in his paper to the UNHRC (A/HRC/37/63) in which he "highlights the urgent need to apply human rights principles systematically and uniformly to all entities and endeavours." De Zayas states What we see is a financial system rigged in favour of powerful individuals and corporations, unequal participation in governments and international organisations, and communities suffering from a reduction of social services, imposed austerity, privatization of public utilities, the misplaced priorities of political leaders and a general absence of genuine representation, - UN Human Rights High Commission press release 2

101 Recommendation #2 (page 20 attachment) Given that de Zayas states Especially in matters of trade, it is imperative to give all stakeholders the opportunity to weigh in the negotiations so as to ensure transparency and accountability, we urge Council to endorse the model trade and investment treaty process offered in the petition The petition takes the government at it's word where it said to the NZ Parliament in the Speech From The Throne 9 November 2017 that it will exclude investor state dispute mechanisms (from TPP) and avoid their inclusion in all future agreements. The petition acknowledges the Labour Party 2017 Trade election manifesto where it offers Greater engagement with civil society over trade talks suggesting a democractic process toward a standing general mandate for New Zealand s future negotiations to guide NZ's trade negotiators. Recommendation #3 (page 21 attachment) We urge the council to support the Local Government (Four Well-beings) Amendment Bill which amends the Local Government Act (LGA) 2002 to reinstate references to social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being that were removed by the National government in The four well-beings were a cornerstone of the LGA 2002 when it was introduced. The four well-beings provide the modern focus of local government on serving and being accountable to the communities they serve. It highlights the constitutional role that local governments play in community development and nation building. Recommendation #4 (page 23 attachment) We urge you to read and consider Kate Raworth's Doughnut Economics as a framework for thinking about economics in the 21st century given that the challenges we are facing this century are global in scale but local in solution and we need a different mindset from the economics of the past if we are to viably approach these challenges. Attached paper: NZ on the cusp of greatness - we make the case for action to ensure ethical governance in New Zealand Evidence paper to NZ Regional Councils and Territorial Authorities March 2018 Many thanks for your consideration. Greg Rzesniowiecki (on behalf of many in civil society) 3

102 NZ on the cusp of greatness - we make the case for action to ensure ethical governance in New Zealand Evidence paper to NZ Regional Councils and Territorial Authorities March 2018 The TPP has been through a tumultuous process, agreed and signed 4 February 2016, then Trumped January The remaining 11 nations negotiated a new agreement signed 8 March 2018 in Chile called Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement on the Trans Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). It is substantially the same agreement with 22 suspended provisions pending the return of the US. The likelyhood of the US rejoining the TPP is increasing with a number of pronouncements from Administration officials. The developing trade war prompted by US tariff increases on Steel and Alluminium imports requires careful consideration. The tariffs are directed at the US trading deficit with China. The US has maintained a trade surplus with NZ over the past several years of NZ US trade. New Zealand is active in trade and investment treaty negotiations with a number of nations and blocs. Civil Society opposition to trade and investment treaties centres on several key concerns; Secrecy of negotiations and negotiating mandate Executive/Crown perogative to treat with foreign powers without civil society consultation - then retrospectively legislate the agreement as a fait accompli Entrenchment of property rights as superior to human, community and ecological rights Entrenchment and enforcement of investor property rights through the advance grant of Investment State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) protection ISDS provides greater rights to foreign investors than domestic investors and businesses Trade treaties conflict with states obligations in other international agreements, including those protecting human rights, labour standards and the environment Impinge on Māori rights in respect to te Tiriti o Waitangi 1

103 Limit the ability of Local Government to make decisions for the wellbeing of their constituency Trade treaties confer new monopoly rights over the use and distribution of knowledge and the digital domain or commons. The duty of government GENEVA (15 March 2018) Alfred de Zayas the UN s first Independent Expert on the promotion of a democratic and equitable international order, shared his seventh and final thematic report to the Human Rights Council at an event on the margins of the Council s 37th session. We suggest that the Council considers formally supporting the 23 principles offered by Alfred de Zayas in his paper to the UNHRC (A/HRC/37/63) in which he "highlights the urgent need to apply human rights principles systematically and uniformly to all entities and endeavours." De Zayas states What we see is a financial system rigged in favour of powerful individuals and corporations, unequal participation in governments and international organisations, and communities suffering from a reduction of social services, imposed austerity, privatization of public utilities, the misplaced priorities of political leaders and a general absence of genuine representation, - UN Human Rights High Commission press release. Image of front matter; 2

104 From the media release; In his full report* based on six years of work on the mandate the Independent Expert identifies 23 principles of international order which should guide all individuals and institutions to achieve a more just and inclusive world. Among them, he highlights the supremacy of the UN Charter over all other treaties, the validity of the human rights treaty regime over commercial and other interests, and the inviolability of State sovereignty. Moreover, any and all exercise of power, especially economic power, must be subject to some democratic controls, said de Zayas. On the nature of the global order and how it is directed Alfred de Zayas' purpose promoting a democratic and equitable international order is undermined by the actions of those who would hack elections for sectarian ends. Global news media are reporting the Facebook Cambridge Analytics scandal through late March Some investigative journalists highlighted the concern late last year, notably Dr. Nafeez Ahmed who offered this prophetic advice in December 2017; What do NATO, private military contractors, aerospace firms, wine merchants, the NSA, Trump, British property tycoons, Russian oligarchs, and Big Oil have in common? The world s largest social network. Imagine a world in which everybody gave away their freedom, willingly, in return for belonging to a toxic network which, rather than enriching their lives, profited from eroding civil discourse, polarizing communities, and manipulating their minds. Wouldn t you wonder what was wrong with these people? You would. And yet that is the world you are about to inhabit, right now. Unless you do something about it. Many individuals and organisations use facebook for it's benefit as a connector, however, where we connect with community building, commerce, social enterprise, family, causes and movement in the democracy, Facebook will be mining our data for end user utility and profit. In the case of Cambridge Analytica through unethical and likely unlawful means. It is only through exposure of the Cambridge Analytica scandal that Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg has announced that he will be reviewing the way his operation does business. It is notable that when Facebook commenced operation Zuckerberg committed to the principle that people who joined would control their data. Here it is demonstated that trust is built on a track record, not on blind faith that a person will honour their word. 3

105 The CPTPP E-Commerce chapter becomes crucial to the question, who directs and benefits from one's data? The owners of the data and large E-Commerce corporations are excited about CPTPP's E- Commerce Chapter and seeks to spread it to NAFTA and around the World. What is good for them is not necessarily good for democracy and ordinary people's interests. Nz's Privacy Commission offers advice in respect to the CPTPP privacy concerns which gained a comment from Eugene Alfred Morgan-Coakle capture on the quality of trust; In the meantime democracy and human rights to privacy is under threat in a new piece of legislation passed by the US Congress and signed by President Trump Friday 23 March 2018 called the Cloud Act. It passed through both houses attached to a spending bill. Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) makes the following observations about the Cloud Act's implications. There s a new, proposed backdoor to our data, which would bypass our Fourth Amendment protections to communications privacy. It is built into a dangerous bill called the CLOUD Act, which would allow police at home and abroad to seize cross-border data without following the privacy rules where the data is stored. This backdoor is an insidious method for accessing our s, our chat logs, our online videos and photos, and our private moments shared online between one another. This backdoor would deny us meaningful judicial review and the privacy protections embedded in our Constitution. This new backdoor for cross-border data mirrors another backdoor under Section 702 of the 4

106 FISA Amendments Act, an invasive NSA surveillance authority for foreign intelligence gathering. That law, recently reauthorized and expanded by Congress for another six years, gives U.S. intelligence agencies, including the NSA, FBI, and CIA, the ability to search, read, and share our private electronic messages without first obtaining a warrant. The new backdoor in the CLOUD Act operates much in the same way. U.S. police could obtain Americans data, and use it against them, without complying with the Fourth Amendment. All of which has serious implications for NZ data security and personal privacy where data is stored outside of New Zealand, with or without the US in CPTPP. US internet corporations Apple, Google, Facebook, Amazon and more store our data on US servers or overseas. How stable and secure are these platforms given they rely on public confidence to maintain their share price and corporate value? The Herald ran a story 19 March 2018, Why the tech bubble is ready to burst a few days before the markets took vengance on the Facebook share price over election hacking, stripping over US$60billion from the value of the stock. Bubbles invariably burst with unpredictable results 2008 Great Financial Crisis (GFC) is one recent example. Who to trust Increasingly it appears that one's data is being employed to support interests that one is opposed to. Where one loses ownership of one's data, one loses the right to limit its reproduction and use. No sane democrat wants future local body or NZ general elections to be determined by who is most clever with data manipulation. We cannot allow our democracy to be hacked. Due Diligence demands counter measure planning, to ensure electoral integrity given we are a democracy. It is of note that the GCSB's role is to protect the NZ Internet space in that it protects certain traffic to facilitate secure communications for NZ Government and selected commerce or NGO operations. One would think the electoral system in a nation would be worth protecting from hacking. Surely the NZ Echelon partners at the US NSA or the UK GCHQ would be capable to detect election hacking and close it down. If US intelligence services did detect the Facebook-Cambridge Analytics election hack - they didn't do the democracy any service by thwarting the coup that resulted. Cambridge Analytics parent company is SCL Group is linked to elite personalities in the UK and US establishment with Security and Intelligence connections. This fact might explain why the UK and US Intelligence Services were thwarted from or reluctant to protect their realms. UK and US regulators are moving on the matter with Zuckerberg facing question in the US. NZ Justice Minister Andrew Little coincidentally has announced a review of NZ's Privacy Laws, with the Privacy Commissioner calling for fines for 5

107 breaches of up to $1million. Given the level of supposed surveillance it is a puzzle that the breaches are only discovered after the horse has bolted. What tricks will those who desire to hack elections dream up for the next round of ballots? One question for the NZ Government and its intelligence services, is the degree to which Cambridge Analytics, SCL Group or any other are tampering with or hacking NZ's electoral system. Local Government has a Duty of Care to ensure integrity of their electoral process Democracy elections and democratic practice is the basis for the NZ Sovereign State and as such it is integral to the State's existence. Hacking elections, disseminating fake news, lack of transparency, and deep state interest, threaten the integrity of the democratic process, and call into question the validity of government formation - all of which undermines state cohesion and creates ground for unecessary internal dissent. British humanist, philosopher, public intellectual and prolific author AC Grayling lectured at the NZ Festival in Wellington the talk theme, With dirty politics, authoritarian leaders and the simultaneous rise of populism rampant across the planet, what can individuals do to preserve democracy, the least worst system of government? Grayling lays bare the specific problems of 21st-century democracy in his new book Democracy and Its Crisis. AC Grayling suggests that given the Cambridge Analytics hack of the Brexit Referendum, the result is no longer valid, We were conned.. and now we need a new referendum is his response to the hacking of the UK electoral process. Electronic Ballots how secure? NZ is discussing electronic voting on ballots that are machine readable. Is that wise from the perspective of integrity and trust in the process, whether it has been manipulted or otherwise? Why rely on trust, when we can be secure and transparent? It is imperative that we design integrity into our democratic process. Elections can be gamed - it's all in the code Clinton Curtis testifies to a US Senate panel that he was asked by Yang Corporation to write code to manipulate a Diebold Vote Counting machine in time for the 2000 Bush Gore Election. Curtis demonstrates that the Florida State vote of the Bush 2000 election was gamed! Politics US style. US and Dutch scientists ask Are we witnessing a dishonest election? A between state comparison based on the used voting procedures of the 2016 Democratic Party Primary for the Presidency of the United States of America. They compared ballots from the 2016 Democrat Primary race 6

108 between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders and found a curious correlation; Where there was a paper receipt the ballots went to Sanders, whereas those that were only electronic went to Clinton! On the Deep-State A majority of the American public believe that the U.S. government engages in widespread monitoring of its own citizens and worry that the U.S. government could be invading their own privacy. The Monmouth University Poll finds a large bipartisan majority who feel that national policy is being manipulated or directed by a Deep State of unelected government officials. Deep-State enemy of choice The issue of 'Russian hacking' of the US election is of note particularly given the US record of interference in other nations' affairs, elections, to the point of initiating coups and wars for regime change. We do not seek to justify any meddling in the affairs of sovereign nations. It is a fundamantal principle of the UN Charter - the right to self determination. The UK is employing similar tactics in its bone pointing toward Russia over the alleged nerve gasing of Sergei and Yulia Skripal in Salisbury 4 March Craig Murray ex UK Ambassador and 'former' intelligence asset says there's no evidence to connect the Russians. Craig states he's winning the public discussion as there's no valid counter proposal from supporters of the UK line that Russia dunnit. It is clear that our allied states, UK, US, Canada and Australia in 5 Eyes or Echelon Spy agreement have made many false accusations on the back of 'false or no evidence' 2003 Iraq War on the basis of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) being one large publicly known lie. We know that internal processes are insufficiently powerful to correct intelligence services and the government ministers' utterances, prior to declarations of foreign policy intent and war-making. The tendency to 'lie about the facts' indicates an ideological perspective, that isn't above systemically concoting evidence to support the 'club effort against the declared enemy'. The party interest is known as the Military and Industrial Complex which utilise the security state to create tension and then profit from it through supplying the materials to conduct the resultant hostilities. The NZ Afghanistan Hit and Run scandal uncovered by John Stevenson and Nicky Hager in their Hit and Run book highlight NZ involvement and complicity in War Crimes for Empire. One year after the March 2017 Hit and Run assertions, NZ Defence Chief Gen Tim Keating finally admits that the events did take place in the places referenced in Stephenson's book. The UK Prime Minister Tony Blair lied to the world about weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in 7

109 Iraq in order to advance the Iraq War on the basis of false intelligence. The Iraq war is credited with the murder of up to a million people and the displacement of many more, both internally and into neighbouring nations as well as hundreds of thousands to Europe and many to Oceania the globalised impacts of modern war are far reaching. It is very apparent that Secretive Intelligence agencies and deep agendas within the deep-state are corrupting global politics through a strategy of tension; The strategy of tension is a method of social control involving a series of covert attacks upon a population, intended to promote stress and fear amongst them. The purpose is, by inducing a mistrust of one another and of the world at large, to increase child-like dependence upon perceived authority figures (such as national governments). The English phrase originates from the Italian (strategia della tensione), which was first applied to Operation Gladio in Italy. The hate Russia disease appears to have mutated and spread to New Zealand with the Prime Minister making a statement that Russia was to blame without any tangible evidence to support the assertion; Despite the further details that have emerged since the NZ government statement earlier this week, and despite the international outcry, the Russian reaction has been cynical, sarcastic and inadequate. There is no plausible alternative explanation hitherto, that this came from anywhere other than Russia, and no doubt whatsoever that Russia has serious questions to answer. It appears to be the price of the club membership. The question that John Key then a National MP posed to the Clark Government in respect to the 2003 Iraq War makes clear that gaining a Free Trade Agreement with the US depended on New Zealand joining the Criminal Iraq War. Is joining criminal wars the price that New Zealand wants to pay for its export trade? Fact: the nexus between trade, foreign affairs, national competition for control of resources and war making. Last words by Stuff's David Armstrong Monday 26 March where he states there's no evidence of Russian involvement in the Skripal case; Free trade between morality and economic might. Deep-state lies to expedite war-making - how to counter the narrative? To counter this tendency to spread propaganda and lies for sectarian (deep-state) interest it is imperative that the democracy assert control over the state where it is being engaged for nefarious purpose. The point becomes important in the globalised context to ensure all government dealings and relations with individuals, corportations, interests and governments that lead to commercial, 8

110 contractual, treaty or legislative amendment are open to public scrutiny. Open Government - Shine light into the workings of Government The one vehicle which provides a window into Government action is the Official Information Act (OIA) Minister for Justice Andrew Little took a question from National MP Brett Hudson 7 December 2017, who asked about Little's proposed review and/or reform of the OIA, Hudson's question, What reform is he planning to make to the Official Information Act 1982? The NZ Government is yet to formally notify when the public consultation on any OIA reform proposals might occur. The NZ Law Commission 2010 issues paper, The Public's Right to Know (IP18) discussed areas of possible reform relating to New Zealand s official information legislation. It sought public comment on preliminary proposals. This Issues Paper is part of the Commission s Review of the Official Information Act 1982 and Parts 1-6 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987; The The key principle of the Official Information Act 1982 and the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 is that official information should be made available unless in the particular case there is good reason for withholding it. Requirements of a functioning democracy Everyone says that transparency and open access to government information is critical to the maintenance of a well functioning democracy. We need to instrumentalise that to ensure public trust in government processes and decision making. We have seen repeated instances where governments; local, central, NZ, and global claim privilege for the information they hold in order to stop the public from knowing what is being done in our name, and often without our consent. Trans Pacific Partnership both as TPP and CPTPP iterations were negotiated in secrecy which was only penetrated by leaks. Where has the NZ democracy sanctioned the government to reach agreements to alter NZ legislation then return to NZ with an Agreement and claim it's in the National Interest to Sign and Ratify it. Commercial privilege is claimed. Where has the NZ democracy said yes to ISDS in trade treaties? War making Creating Tension War is often initiated with false pretense or through the ruse of a staged events - examples; Nazi Germany's Reichstag Fire scapegoat communists 'regime change' 9

111 US's Gulf of Yonkin non-event that was employed as the ruse for ramping up the Vietnam War against communists 'regime change' Afghanistan - Osama bin Laden and retribution for the 9/11 event - Taliban 'regime change' Iraq - weapons of mass destruction (WMD) and 'regime change' Libya responsibilty to protect and the case against the leader Gaddafi 'regime change' Syria and the case for 'regime change' UK Salisbury Skripal nerve agent attack case for attacking Russia = Putin 'regime change' Each of the listed nations and disputes is informed to the NZ and global population through the statements of national officials and the reporting of the Mainstream News Media. The public are told in all of the above examples that the security agency reports or the Government statements and acts make the case for an attack on a sovereign nation. Here is a critique of the hate Russia narrative by a London businessperson; On 1st March, Vladimir Putin gave his annual address to the Federal Assembly in Moscow. Unsurprisingly, one segment in particular drew the attention of the western press the section on defence. Putin described a number of highly advanced weapons systems scheduled to come online over the next few months and years. He explained the necessity for the development of these systems, particularly since George W. Bush s withdrawal from the ABM treaty in 2002, and went on to describe the parameters within which they would be used. In the passage below, you will see that he alludes to recent statements made by the United States, in which they have asserted their prerogative to make a first nuclear strike: We are greatly concerned by certain provisions of the revised nuclear posture review, which expand the opportunities for reducing and reduce the threshold for the use of nuclear arms. Behind closed doors, one may say anything to calm down anyone, but we read what is written. And what is written is that this strategy can be put into action in response to conventional arms attacks and even to a cyber-threat. I should note that our military doctrine says Russia reserves the right to use nuclear weapons solely in response to a nuclear attack, or an attack with other weapons of mass destruction against the country or its allies, or an act of aggression against us with the use 10

112 of conventional weapons that threaten the very existence of the state. This all is very clear and specific. As such, I see it is my duty to announce the following. Any use of nuclear weapons against Russia or its allies, weapons of short, medium or any range at all, will be considered as a nuclear attack on this country. Retaliation will be immediate, with all the attendant consequences. There should be no doubt about this whatsoever. There is no need to create more threats to the world. Instead, let us sit down at the negotiating table and devise together a new and relevant system of international security and sustainable development for human civilisation. We have been saying this all along. All these proposals are still valid. Russia is ready for this Anyone who has followed international politics since the sixties will hear echoes of mutually assured destruction (MAD) in this passage. I.E. No-one can win, we will all lose, so let s calm it down with the addition of what was missing for much of the cold war so let s talk. This is not how the speech was reported in western media. Here are some of the headlines: The Guardian: Putin threatens US arms race with new missiles declaration The BBC: Russia s Putin unveils invincible nuclear weapons The Washington Post: Putin just bragged about Russia s nuclear weapons Of course, it is easy to understand how those outlets could draw such inferences from the speech anyone with half a brain and a drum to bang could take any segment and extract a case for Russian aggression. However, read the whole speech, attempt to put yourself in Russia s shoes for even a moment and what you will notice about western coverage is an almost total lack of objectivity, intelligent analysis, or understanding. In short, our media do not attempt to see the world through the eyes of Vladimir Putin... The author concludes in the following terms; Finally, let me say this: I have no personal animosity towards individual journalists who peddle this crap. I don t know them personally. They may have been duped, they may have been persuaded, they may be assets. I don t know on an individual basis. What I do know is this: a war-mongering mind-set has taken hold in governments, in our security services, and increasingly in the military a mind-set that the media is drip-feeding into the population. On that score, I am personally committed to exposing this mind-set for what it is: whether it is print media hacks with their whitewashing of the US funding of al- 11

113 Qaeda and the White helmet psyop ; or whether it is the televisual media that parrots the governmental line on anything Putin says, does, or doesn t do I will not sit quietly by whilst these sociopaths and morons take us to war again. To my fellow citizens I say this: Make up your own mind don t blindly believe me or anyone else; and for God s sake don t let the government and the media make up your mind for you. To politicians and the media, I say this: I haven t forgotten Iraq even if you have. If you think for one moment that I m going follow you down the warpath on the basis of zero evidence or blatant bullshit it s never going to happen. Either tell the truth, or get out. Transparency and open government is a public good Each council and territorial authority has matters that it has hidden from constituents. Likewise Central Government. It could be argued that privilege is necessary, however, where privilege is employed to misrepresent or do unlawful activity false accusations of culpability there needs to be a public interest test mediated in a competent court to ensure that all decsions are taken with the utmost integrity and with a full weighing of facts and the benefit of human rights law. World Scientists Warning to Humanity: A Second Notice published 13 November 2017 co-signed by 15,000 Scientists; Twenty-five years ago, the Union of Concerned Scientists and more than 1700 independent scientists, including the majority of living Nobel laureates in the sciences, penned the 1992 World Scientists Warning to Humanity (see supplemental file S1). These concerned professionals called on humankind to curtail environmental destruction and cautioned that a great change in our stewardship of the Earth and the life on it is required, if vast human misery is to be avoided. In their manifesto, they showed that humans were on a collision course with the natural world. They expressed concern about current, impending, or potential damage on planet Earth involving ozone depletion, freshwater availability, marine life depletion, ocean dead zones, forest loss, biodiversity destruction, climate change, and continued human population growth. They proclaimed that fundamental changes were urgently needed to avoid the consequences our present course would bring. The scientists recommend; Sustainability transitions come about in diverse ways, and all require civil-society pressure and evidence-based advocacy, political leadership, and a solid understanding of policy instruments, markets, and other drivers. Examples of diverse and effective steps humanity can take to transition to sustainability include the following (not in order of importance or urgency): (a) prioritizing the enactment of connected well-funded and well-managed 12

114 reserves for a significant proportion of the world's terrestrial, marine, freshwater, and aerial habitats; (b) maintaining nature's ecosystem services by halting the conversion of forests, grasslands, and other native habitats; (c) restoring native plant communities at large scales, particularly forest landscapes; (d) rewilding regions with native species, especially apex predators, to restore ecological processes and dynamics; (e) developing and adopting adequate policy instruments to remedy defaunation, the poaching crisis, and the exploitation and trade of threatened species; (f) reducing food waste through education and better infrastructure; (g) promoting dietary shifts towards mostly plant-based foods; (h) further reducing fertility rates by ensuring that women and men have access to education and voluntary family-planning services, especially where such resources are still lacking; (i) increasing outdoor nature education for children, as well as the overall engagement of society in the appreciation of nature; (j) divesting of monetary investments and purchases to encourage positive environmental change; (k) devising and promoting new green technologies and massively adopting renewable energy sources while phasing out subsidies to energy production through fossil fuels; (l) revising our economy to reduce wealth inequality and ensure that prices, taxation, and incentive systems take into account the real costs which consumption patterns impose on our environment; and (m) estimating a scientifically defensible, sustainable human population size for the long term while rallying nations and leaders to support that vital goal. To prevent widespread misery and catastrophic biodiversity loss, humanity must practice a more environmentally sustainable alternative to business as usual. This prescription was well articulated by the world's leading scientists 25 years ago, but in most respects, we have not heeded their warning. Soon it will be too late to shift course away from our failing trajectory, and time is running out. We must recognize, in our day-to-day lives and in our governing institutions, that Earth with all its life is our only home. Looking forward - New Zealand assists creating a better World We encourage New Zealand to adopt Alfred de Zayas' recommended principles to the 9 March 2018 side-event to the 37th session of the Human Rights Council on international order and multilateralism. Alfred focused primarily on his visit to Venezuela 26 November to 4 December 2017 and uses that expedition to highlight the 23 principles of international order which should guide all individuals and institutions to achieve a more just and inclusive world. Alfred's suggestions bear careful and deliberate consideration the are critical to comprehend for democracy advocates. It ought be noted that NZ has championed causes previously through the UN - most recently the Security Council resolution 2334 on Palestine 23 December 2016 concerning Israeli settlements in 13

115 "Palestinian territories occupied since 1967, including East Jerusalem" We will never achieve justice in law without a concerted global campaign. In a globalised world we require a global movement toward just law. We encourage all NZ Regional Councils and Territorial Authorities to be partners in creating the solution. Recommendation #1 We suggest that the Council considers formally supporting the 23 principles offered by Alfred de Zayas in his paper to the UNHRC (A/HRC/37/63) thus endorsing their merit and requesting the New Zealand Government similarly endorse them and champion them in International Fora and diplomatic relations and negotiations. Principles of international order The reports of the Independent Expert have been guided by numerous General Assembly resolutions, notably resolutions 2625 (XXV) and 3314 (XXIX), which, together with the Charter, propound a vision of a democratic and equitable international order. Based on the work of the mandate holder, the following should be generally recognized as principles of international order: (a) Pax optima rerum. The noblest principle and purpose of the United Nations is promoting peace, preventively and, in case of armed conflict, facilitating peacemaking, reconstruction and reconciliation; (b) The Charter takes priority over all other treaties (Article 103); (c) Human dignity is the source of all human rights, which, since 1945, have expanded into an international human rights treaty regime, many aspects of which have become customary international law. The international human rights treaty regime takes priority over commercial and other treaties (see A/HRC/33/40, paras ); (d) The right of self-determination of peoples constitutes jus cogens and is affirmed in the Charter and in common article 1 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights. The rights-holders of self-determination are peoples. The duty bearers are States. The exercise of selfdetermination is an expression of democracy and attains enhanced legitimacy when a referendum is conducted under the auspices of the United Nations. Although the enjoyment of self-determination in the form of autonomy, federalism, secession or union with another State entity is a human right, it is not self-executing. Timely dialogue for the realization of self-determination is an effective conflict-prevention measure (see A/69/272, 14

116 paras ); (e) Statehood depends on four criteria: population, territory, government and the ability to enter into relations with other countries. While international recognition is desirable, it is not constitutive but only declaratory. A new State is bound by the principles of international order, including human rights; (f) Every State has an inalienable right to choose its political, economic, social and cultural systems, without interference in any form by another State. Already in 1510 the Spanish Dominican Francisco de Vitoria, Professor of Law in Salamanca, stated that all nations had the right to govern themselves and could accept the political regime they wanted, even if it was not the best; (g) Peoples and nations possess sovereignty over their natural resources. If these natural resources were sold or assigned pursuant to colonial, neocolonial or unequal treaties or contracts, these agreements must be revised to vindicate the sovereignty of peoples over their own resources; (h) The principle of territorial integrity has external application, i.e. State A may not invade or encroach upon the territorial integrity of State B. This principle cannot be used internally to deny or hollow out the right of self-determination of peoples, which constitutes a jus cogens right (see A/69/272, paras. 21, 28, 69 and 70); (i) State sovereignty is superior to commercial and other agreements (see A/HRC/33/40, paras ); (j) States shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any State or in any other manner inconsistent with the purposes of the United Nations (Charter, Art. 2 (4)); (k) States have a positive duty to negotiate and settle their international disputes by peaceful means in such a manner that international peace, security and justice are not endangered (Charter, Art. 2 (3)); (l) States have the duty to refrain from propaganda for war (International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, art. 20 (1)); (m) States shall negotiate in good faith for the early conclusion of a universal treaty on general and complete disarmament under effective international control (A/HRC/27/51, paras. 6, 16, 18 and 44); (n) States may not organize or encourage the organization of irregular forces or armed bands, including mercenaries, for incursion into the territory of another State; 15

117 (o) States must refrain from intervening in matters within the national jurisdiction of another State; (p) No State may use or encourage the use of economic, political or any other type of measures to coerce another State in order to obtain from it the subordination of the exercise of its sovereign rights and to secure from it advantages of any kind; (q) No State may organize, assist, foment, finance, incite or tolerate subversive, terrorist or armed activities directed towards the violent overthrow of the regime of another State, or interfere in civil strife in another State; (r) The use of force to deprive peoples of their national identity constitutes a violation of their inalienable rights and of the principle of non-intervention; (s) The ontology of States is to legislate in the public interest. The ontology of business and investment is to take risks to generate profit. A treaty that stipulates one-way protection for investors and establishes arbitration commissions that encroach on the regulatory space of States is by nature contra bonos mores. Hence, the investor-state dispute settlement mechanism cannot be reformed; it must be abolished (see A/HRC/30/44, paras. 8, 12, 17 and 53, and A/70/285, paras. 54 and 65); (t) States must respect not only the letter of the law, but also the spirit of the law, as well as general principles of law (Statute of the International Court of Justice, Article 38), such as good faith, the impartiality of judges, non-selectivity, uniformity of application of law, the principle of non-intervention, estoppel (ex injuria non oritur jus), the prohibition of the abuse of rights (sic utere tuo ut alienum non laedas) and the prohibition of contracts or treaties that are contra bonos mores. It is not only the written law that stands, but the broader principles of natural justice as already recognized in Sophocles Antigone, affirming the unwritten laws of humanity, and the concept of a higher moral law prohibiting unconscionably taking advantage of a weaker party, which could well be considered a form of economic neocolonialism or neo-imperialism (see annex II below); (u) States have the duty to cooperate with one another, irrespective of the differences in their political, economic and social systems, in order to maintain international peace and security and to promote international economic stability and progress. To this end, States are obliged to conduct their international relations in the economic, social, cultural, technical and trade fields in accordance with the principles of sovereign equality and nonintervention. States should promote a culture of dialogue and mediation; (v) The right to access reliable information is indispensable for the national and international democratic order. The right of freedom of opinion and expression necessarily includes the right to be wrong. Memory laws, which pretend to crystalize history into a 16

118 politically correct narrative, and penal laws enacted to suppress dissent are antidemocratic, offend academic freedom and endanger not only domestic but also international democracy (see A/HRC/24/38, para. 37); (w) States have a duty to protect and preserve nature and the common heritage of humankind for future generations. Alfred concludes his report with two annexes to frame consideration of the 23 Principles of International Order, Human Rights Annex I and Rule of Justice Annex II. The full text of each annex can be accessed in the full report: Annex I - A new functional paradigm on human rights 1. All rights derive from human dignity. Codification of human rights is never definitive and never exhaustive, but constitutes an evolutionary mode d emploi for the exercise of civil, cultural, economic, political and social rights. Alas, the interpretation and application of human rights is hindered by wrong priorities, sterile positivism and a regrettable tendency to focus only on individual rights while forgetting collective rights. Alas, many rights advocates show little or no interest for the social responsibilities that accompany the exercise of rights, and fail to see the necessary symbiosis of rights and obligations, notwithstanding the letter and spirit of article 29 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. 2. The time has come to change the human rights paradigm away from narrow positivism towards a broader understanding of human rights norms in the context of an emerging customary international law of human rights. Law is neither physics nor mathematics, but a dynamic human institution that day by day addresses the needs and aspirations of society, adjusting here, filling lacunae there. Every human rights lawyer knows that the spirit of the law (Montesquieu) transcends the limitations of the letter of the law...(cont.) Points 2 9 in UN report page 21; (A/HRC/37/63) Annex II - Rule of law must evolve into rule of justice 1. The rule of law is a pillar of stability, predictability and democratic ethos. Its object and purpose is to serve the human person and progressively achieve human dignity in larger freedom. 2. Because law reflects power imbalances, we must ensure that the ideal of the rule of law is not instrumentalized simply to enforce the status quo, maintain privilege, and the exploitation of one group over another. The rule of law must be a rule that allows flexibility and welcomes continuous democratic dialogue to devise and implement those reforms 17

119 required by an evolving society. It must be a rule of conscience and of listening. 3. Throughout history law has been all too frequently manipulated by political power, becoming a kind of dictatorship through law, where people are robbed of their individual and collective rights, and the law itself becomes the main instrument of their disenfranchisement. Experience has taught us that law is not coterminous with justice and that laws can be adopted and enforced to perpetuate abuse and cement injustice. Accordingly, any appeal to the rule of law should be contextualized within a human-rightsbased framework. Points in the UN report page 23; (A/HRC/37/63) Trade and investment treaty effects on public policy Councillors will note the many references to trade and investment treaties and Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS) made by Alfred de Zayas in his 23 principles, namely; (c) Human dignity is the source of all human rights, which, since 1945, have expanded into an international human rights treaty regime, many aspects of which have become customary international law. The international human rights treaty regime takes priority over commercial and other treaties (see A/HRC/33/40, paras ); This statement is reasserted in many ways through the principles, notably in; (i) State sovereignty is superior to commercial and other agreements (see A/HRC/33/40, paras ); (p) No State may use or encourage the use of economic, political or any other type of measures to coerce another State in order to obtain from it the subordination of the exercise of its sovereign rights and to secure from it advantages of any kind; (s) The ontology of States is to legislate in the public interest. The ontology of business and investment is to take risks to generate profit. A treaty that stipulates one-way protection for investors and establishes arbitration commissions that encroach on the regulatory space of States is by nature contra bonos mores. Hence, the investor-state dispute settlement mechanism cannot be reformed; it must be abolished (see A/HRC/30/44, paras. 8, 12, 17 and 53, and A/70/285, paras. 54 and 65); (t) States must respect not only the letter of the law, but also the spirit of the law, as well as general principles of law (Statute of the International Court of Justice, Article 38), such as good faith, the impartiality of judges, non-selectivity, uniformity of application of law, the principle of non-intervention, estoppel (ex injuria non oritur jus), the prohibition of the abuse of rights (sic utere tuo ut alienum non laedas) and the prohibition of contracts or 18

120 treaties that are contra bonos mores. It is not only the written law that stands, but the broader principles of natural justice as already recognized in Sophocles Antigone, affirming the unwritten laws of humanity, and the concept of a higher moral law prohibiting unconscionably taking advantage of a weaker party, which could well be considered a form of economic neocolonialism or neo-imperialism (see annex II below); (u) States have the duty to cooperate with one another, irrespective of the differences in their political, economic and social systems, in order to maintain international peace and security and to promote international economic stability and progress. To this end, States are obliged to conduct their international relations in the economic, social, cultural, technical and trade fields in accordance with the principles of sovereign equality and nonintervention. States should promote a culture of dialogue and mediation; The following have implications for trade treaties whilst having general importance; (v) The right to access reliable information is indispensable for the national and international democratic order. The right of freedom of opinion and expression necessarily includes the right to be wrong. Memory laws, which pretend to crystalize history into a politically correct narrative, and penal laws enacted to suppress dissent are antidemocratic, offend academic freedom and endanger not only domestic but also international democracy (see A/HRC/24/38, para. 37); (w) States have a duty to protect and preserve nature and the common heritage of humankind for future generations. TPP or CPTPP - on balance a public good? The best that can be said about the CPTPP is that it provides limited economic benefits to NZ. That benefit is also a potential poor outcome where it expands our primary producing economy in a manner that increases NZ's emissions of greenhouse gases. The is a lot of material on TPP/CPTPP. The community that oppose its imposition on New Zealand are of a similar mind to the Union of Concerned Scientists, Alfred de Zayas the UN Independent Expert on the promotion of a democratic and equitable international order and Dr Nafeez Ahmed. We ask, why take binding and enforceable action to lock NZ and the region into an agreement that is patently against the interests of the present and future NZ State? LGNZ previous President Lawrence Yule said in July 2017, local government s vision for New Zealand in 2050 is a vibrant country enjoying environmental, social, cultural and economic prosperity when launching the new Local Government Position Statement on Climate Change, and 2017 climate change declaration signed by 44 mayors from around the country. The statement includes the following passage; 19

121 2. Policy alignment and a clear mandate to address climate change Central government policies can support (or hinder) council, private sector and community action to respond to climate change. Effective climate policy involves a diverse range of adaptation and mitigation actions. A broad review of existing policy is required to support climate change adaptation and mitigation actions. To highlight that local government s actions to address climate change are part of a national effort, we seek an explicit mandate under the Local Government Act to consider how decisions affect climate change outcomes. We have already demonstrated in clear factual terms the limits that TPP/CPTPP and the ISDS regime will impose on effective climate action. The petition places importance on ensuring any treade and investment treaty NZ enters will not constrain effective climate action. NZ must move to a future where everyone's wellbeing is nurtured. This could be ensured by way of amendment to the manner in which NZ negotiates, consults, signs and ratifies international trade and investment treaties. The petition takes the government at it's word where it said to the NZ Parliament in the Speech From The Throne 9 November 2017 that it will exclude investor state dispute mechanisms (from TPP) and avoid their inclusion in all future agreements. The petition acknowledges the Labour Party 2017 Trade election manifesto where it offers Greater engagement with civil society over trade talks suggesting a democractic process toward a standing general mandate for New Zealand s future negotiations to guide NZ's trade negotiators. Recommendation #2 We urge Council to endorse the model trade and investment treaty process offered in the petition The dontdoit.nz petition where it is implemented would ensure that New Zealand honours PM Jacinda Ardern's statement that MFAT will negotiate no further FTAs with Investor State Dispute Settlement (ISDS). It would ensure in a transparent and public manner that there would be no surprises or treaties negotiated that are adverse to NZ interests and inhabitants' wellbeing. The petition says in part;...urge the House to call upon the Government: k) not to sign the TPPA or the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement on Trans-Pacific 20

122 Partnership; (note: the petition was formulated prior to the 8 March 2018 CPTPP Signing in Chile) l) to conduct a principles-based review of New Zealand s approach to free trade, investment and economic integration agreements that involves broad-based consultation; m) to engage with Maori to reach agreement on effective protection of their rights and interests consistent with te Tiriti o Waitangi and suspend negotiations for similar agreements until that review is concluded; and further, urge the House to pass new legislation that (n) establishes the principles and protections identified through the principles-based review under paragraph (l) as the standing general mandate for New Zealand s future negotiations, including; i. excluding ISDS from all agreements New Zealand enters into, and renegotiating existing agreements with ISDS; ii. a requirement for the government to commission and release in advance of signing an agreement independent analyses of the net costs and benefits of any proposed agreement for the economy, including jobs and distribution, and of the impact on health, other human rights, the environment and the ability to take climate action; iii. a legislative requirement to refer the agreement to the Waitangi Tribunal for review prior to any decision to sign the treaty; and (o) makes the signing of any agreement conditional on a majority vote of the Parliament following the tabling in the House of the reports referred to in paragraph (n) (ii) and (iii); and for the House to amend its Standing Orders to (p) establish a specialist parliamentary select committee on treaties with membership that has the necessary expertise to scrutinise free trade, investment and economic integration agreements; (q) require the tabling of the government s full mandate for any negotiation prior to the commencement of negotiations, and any amendment to that mandate, as well as periodic reports to the standing committee on treaties on compliance with that mandate; (r) require the tabling of any final text of any free trade, investment and economic integration agreement at least 90 days prior to it being signed; (s) require the standing committee on treaties call for and hear submissions on the mandate, the periodic reports, and pre-signing version of the text and the final text and 21

123 report on those hearings to Parliament; (t) require a two-third majority support for the adoption of any free trade, investment or economic integration agreement that constrains the sovereignty of future Parliaments that is binding and enforceable through external dispute settlement processes. Recommendation #3 Support the Local Government (Four Well-beings) Amendment Bill We urge the council to support the Local Government (Four Well-beings) Amendment Bill which amends the Local Government Act (LGA) 2002 to reinstate references to social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being that were removed by the National government in The four well-beings were a cornerstone of the LGA 2002 when it was introduced. The four well-beings provide the modern focus of local government on serving and being accountable to the communities they serve. It highlights the constitutional role that local governments play in community development and nation building. The bill is sponsored by Paul Eagle MP (previously Wellington City Councillor). It would be a great demonstration of the alignment between Local Government and Central Government to achieve wellbeing for all NZ inhabitants. The bill offers the following explanation; The Bill amends the Local Government Act 2002 to reinstate references to social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being that were removed by the National government in The four well-beings were a cornerstone of the Act when it was introduced. The four wellbeings provide the modern focus of local government on serving and being accountable to the communities they serve. It highlights the constitutional role that local governments play in community development and nation building. The removal of the four well-beings by the National government was based on factual inaccuracies and misconceptions. The effect of the removal of the four well-beings is wide reaching and is not limited to section 10 amended by the National government, as the fourwell beings permeate the Local Government Act 2002 and there are references to them in other Acts. Given that the four well-beings remain in these other acts of Parliament, the risk of inconsistency and confusion is real, especially with the Resource Management Act 1991 and the Local Government Act Many Mayors and Councillors continue to be concerned that the National government s removal of the four well-beings and its replacement 22

124 wording is sufficiently unclear as to almost certainly lead to legal challenges of the way local authorities interpret their responsibilities, especially legal challenges from wellresourced special interest groups. In its submission on the Local Government Act 2002 Amendment Bill, Local Government New Zealand, the representative body of local governments representing all 78 local authorities in New Zealand, had this to say There is no evidence that a substantive problem exists that requires legislative change. The examples by the Government to justify the proposed change are not examples of a failure of the well-beings. The examples adduced are either explicable due to the underlying circumstances, for example, holdings in particular business activities which are mandated by the communities affected and deliver an acceptable commercial return or address a community need There is no evidence that councils are finding it difficult to decline requests for funding. Instead the recently completed long-term planning round suggests that the opposite is the case. Councils have been aware of the straightened financial circumstances that the country is in and have been fiscally prudent as a result. The prime driver of rates increases is infrastructure investment Most significantly, the proposed amendment will likely have significant legal and cost implications. These implications arise for both decision-makers and the community, who are likely to be confused by its intent or application. It is concerning that the legal (and associated cost) consequences of the proposed amendment do not appear to have been considered by the Government. The Regulatory Impact Statement is silent on this point. The proposed new purpose, and how it changes the proper interpretation of specific obligations under the LGA 2002, is sufficiently unclear as to almost certainly lead to legal challenges of the way local authorities have interpreted their responsibilities. In light of the body of case law under the existing provisions, it would be naïve to think that changing those provisions would not encourage further litigation by well resourced interest groups who opposed particular local authority decisions. As a result, the proposed change is likely to produce significant costs without any concomitant benefit Given the lack of a problem definition, the lack of any evidence to substantiate the general claims made by Government about the impact of the well-beings, and the unscoped legal risk associated with the change, the proposal to alter the well-beings appears somewhat reckless As a result of this analysis, the members of LGNZ resolved unanimously at its Annual General Meeting on 15 July 2012 that the Government should retain the well-beings 23

125 We believe that NZ Local Government support this initiative as there was universal opposition to the removal of the Wellbeings from the LGA Recommendation #4 We urge you to read and consider Kate Raworth's Doughnut Economics as a framework for thinking about economics in the 21st century given that the challenges we are facing this century are global in scale but local in solution and we need a different mindset from the economics of the past if we are to viably approach these challenges. Kate Raworth's book, Doughnut Economics: Seven Ways to Think Like a 21st-Century Economist on Amazon. More of Kate Raworth's publications and writings are available at her website. a brief CV; 24

126 Ends. 25

127 Submitter No 16 Federated Farmers NZ

128 Feder%ted F%rmers NZ Southl%nd Province. Submission on Environment Southl%nd Long Term Pl%n th M%y 2018 Cont%ct. Doug Fr%ser xtr%.co.nz We wish to be he%rd in support of this submission. Executive Summ%ry 1.1 Form%t of consult%tion document %nd supporting inform%tion m%kes it difficult to %n%lyse %nd submit on pl%n. 1.2 The proposed l%rge incre%se in r%tes ex%cerb%tes the disproportion%tely high r%te burden shouldered by the f%rming sector. 1.3 The propos%l to %b%ndon the c%tchment %ppro%ch to limit setting is very concerning. 2 Pl%n Form%t. 2.1 The pl%n consult%tion document is very sh%llow with % distinct l%ck of det%il. Reference to the supporting p%pers often f%ils to provide the det%il th%t w%s once the norm in long term pl%ns. Providing qu%lity inform%tion is more import%nt now given the less stringent requirements in the %nnu%l pl%nning process. 2.2 The use of d%t% with no reference to its source is un%ccept%ble for % regul%tory %uthority with % responsibility

129 to m%int%in integrity. eg. Does freshw%ter use d%t% %ccount for the consumptive use by the M%n%pouri Power St%tion? Wh%t is the source of the cl%im th%t nitrogen is worsening in 32% of 34 monitored sites? 2.3 No division%l budgets %re provided. Grouping %ctivities into four bro%d Groups of Activities blurs the %n%lysis of expenditure. The %v%il%bility of division%l budgets together with the %ssoci%ted funding imp%ct st%tement, previously the norm for ES long term pl%ns, would provide r%tep%yers the opportunity to %n%lyse the funding %nd expenditure of e%ch division. Perh%ps it would %lso help the governors of ES. This is of p%rticul%r concern given the r%pid incre%se in the size of ES %nd the consequent esc%l%tion in funding requirement. 3 R%tes 3.1 FF strongly opposes the l%rge proposed incre%se to in r%tes. 3.2 The 22% r%te incre%se proposed in the first three ye%rs of the pl%n ex%cerb%tes the disproportion%tely high r%tes being p%id by the f%rming sector. This grows the gross inequities th%t exist in ESʼs current r%ting system. 3.3 Gener%l R%tes h%ve incre%sed by 115% in the ten ye%rs up to (ES Annu%l Report 2016/17) 3.4 Tot%l expenditure h%s grown by 63% in the ten ye%rs up to (ES Annu%l Report 2016/2017) 3.5 Dividends h%ve grown by 235% to $4,535,000 in the p%st ten ye%rs to 2017

130 3.6 Employee numbers h%ve grown by 37% to 156 in the l%st five ye%rs. Industry growth which is the envy of the gre%t m%jority of your r%tep%yers. 3.7 Typic%lly f%rmers r%tes r%nge in excess of $2,000. The incre%se in r%tes resulting from this ye%rs proposed 8.8% incre%se will exceed the tot%l r%tes p%id by %n urb%n r%tep%yer. Despite the sm%ll r%te contribution m%de by urb%n r%tep%yers ES provides ICC %n interest free lo%n for them to provide low interest lo%ns in support of their Cle%n Air scheme. 3.8 While supporting the pl%nned remov%l of the D%iry Differenti%l we reject the propos%l to %pply costs b%sed on w%ter use for % w%ter improvement r%te. The f%rming sector %lre%dy m%ke signific%nt investment in m%int%ining %nd monitoring w%ter qu%lity. This includes signific%nt w%ter monitoring %nd compli%nce costs. Signific%nt investment h%s been %nd continues to be m%de by rur%l r%tep%yers to m%n%ge excess w%ter which could be considered %t times to be % li%bility r%ther th%n %n %sset to be t%xed by the regul%tor. 3.9 W%ter qu%lity is % community responsibility. While urb%n territori%l %uthorities continue to disch%rge prohibited pollut%nts with complete immunity from prosecution the f%rming sector continues to invest signific%nt c%pit%l in such improvements rip%ri%n m%n%gement %nd for d%iry f%rmers m%jor upgr%des of effluent m%n%gement systems. F%rmers continue to eng%ge to m%ke improvements in their m%n%gement systems. a. C%tchment Limit Setting 4.1 The propos%l to %b%ndon the c%tchment %ppro%ch to limit setting without full consult%tion with FF is

131 un%ccept%ble. 4.2 Wh%t is % region%l forum %nd how will it %ddress the specific issues %nd dem%nds of the communities in e%ch c%tchment? E%ch c%tchment h%s its own p%rticul%r issues. The W%i%u is % c%se in point. The solution will require difficult judgements to be m%de on w%ter qu%lity %nd qu%ntity %s % result of the consumptive w%ter t%ke of the M%n%pouri Hydro St%tion. Will the community %ccept %n imposed solution? The C%nterbury experiment would suggest % poor outcome. 4.3 How will communities be empowered in the limit setting process when % region%l forum is proposed to %dvise council who in turn will m%ke the decisions %bout limit setting? 4.4 Who will select/%ppoint the region%l forum? Will the forum reflect the diversity of views th%t exist in the community? Those th%t live %nd contribute to the c%tchment %re those best pl%ced to commit to %nd enh%nce their community. Not the c%se if % selected forum impose the limits.

132 Submitter No 60 N Surendran

133 Nathan Surendran - Submission to ES - Long Term Plan Consultation 2018 I WISH TO SPEAK TO THIS SUBMISSION 22/05/18 Online at and spoken submission at [tbc] Context 1 Underlying Assumptions of GDP Growth 1 A Changing Policy Environment 4 An alternate vision for Response to the specifics of the consultation 7 ES 7 Significant Assumptions and Risks 7 Comments on the Strategic Intent document: 7 Context In making my comments on the Long Term Plan s intended focus and objectives below, I am pointing to a set of issues that are in my experience poorly understood. This stems from my background as a built environment energy systems engineer, and years of painstaking research and thinking that have given me a deep understanding of the dynamics of the big picture changes we face. This submission should be read in the context of the other submissions I have made / contributed to, over the past 7 years or so I have been in Southland, to various regional 1 and national consultations. I have not covered so much of the evidence in this submission, choosing instead to focus on the narrative and mostly positive suggestions for change. Underlying Assumptions of GDP Growth In order to make good decisions over the 10 year time scale under consideration, we must have a fact based, systemic understanding of the complex and inter-related challenges we face. The of 8

134 2 Wise Response Incorporated Society has outlined 5 broad areas of risk that we face, which our current approach to policy and strategy at the national and local government level has failed to address coherently, in an integrated manner, if at all: 1. Economic security: the risk of a sudden, deepening, or prolonged financial crisis. 2. Energy and climate security: the risk of continuing our heavy dependence on fossil fuels. 3. Business continuity: the risk exposure of all New Zealand business, including farming, to a lower carbon economy. 4. Ecological security: the risks associated with failing to genuinely protect both land-based and marine ecosystems and their natural processes. 5. Genuine well-being: the risk of persisting with a subsidised, debt-based economy, preoccupied with maximising consumption and GDP. Nobody is against growth in wellbeing and even economists agree that economies cannot grow quantitatively forever on a finite planet. The real limits to growth controversy lies in relation to the concepts of GDP and qualitative growth. Defenders of growth argue that there is no reason why we cannot decouple GDP growth from environmental impact in such a way that avoids any perceived limits to growth. These growth advocates might acknowledge that current forms of GDP growth are not sustainable, but nevertheless argue that what we need is green growth ; that is, growth based in qualitative improvement not quantitative expansion. This view is based in neoclassical economic theory. It maintains that if natural resources begin to get scarce, prices will go up, and this will set in motion two important dynamics. First of all, increased prices will dis-incentivise consumption of that resource and encourage alternatives or substitution, thus reducing demand of the scarce resource and mitigating the problem. Secondly, increased prices would incentivise the development of new technologies, new markets, or new substitutes, which will increase the production of the scarce resource, lead to its more efficient use, and provide new alternatives. Furthermore, when markets are working properly and all the costs of production are internalised, the prices that result will mean human beings will only ever consume natural resources or pollute the environment to an optimal degree. From this perspective, overconsumption of resources can only result from market failures, so all we need to do is fix those failures and deregulate the market, and then the environment will take care of itself as the invisible hand maximises overall wellbeing. For these reasons, economists tend to argue that economies will never face limits to GDP growth. Those silly limits to growth theorists just don t understand economics. Growth is good and more growth is better! The conclusion drawn from this neoclassical code of beliefs is that all nations on the planet (including the richest) should continue pursuing growth in GDP, while aiming to decouple that of 8

135 growth from environmental impact by way of qualitative growth. Not only is this the dominant understanding at the national level, it shapes international discourse too, with the United Nations recently stating that sustained growth is indispensable to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. I beg to differ. Such arguments for why there are no limits to growth are often coherent in theory, but when applied to practice their flaws become evident. In Prosperity without Growth, for example, Tim Jackson (2009) showed that if developed nations were to grow GDP by 2% over coming decades and by 2050 the global population had achieved a similar standard of living, the global economy would be 15 times larger than it is today in terms of GDP. If the global economy grew at 3% from then on it would be 30 times larger than the current economy by 2073, and 60 times larger by the end of this century.given that the global economy is already in gross ecological overshoot, it is utterly implausible to think that planetary ecosystems could withstand the impacts of a global economy that was 15, 30, or 60 times larger, in terms of GDP, than it is today. Even a global economy twice or four times as big should be of profound ecological concern. What makes this growth trajectory all the more implausible is that if we asked politicians whether they would prefer 4% GDP growth to 3%, they would all say yes, and the exponential growth scenario just outlined would become even more absurd. Heaven forbid we get what we are aiming for! Yes, we need to do our very best to decouple GDP from environmental impact via qualitative growth, by exploiting appropriate technology and implementing smart design. That is absolutely necessary to achieve sustainability. And there is huge potential for efficiency improvements both in terms of cleaner production, increased recycling, and less-impactful consumer choices. Nobody is denying that. But when we think through the basic arithmetic of growth it becomes perfectly clear that compound GDP growth quickly renders the growth model a recipe for ecological and thus humanitarian disaster. We need an alternative model of economic progress, as well as a culture and set of institutions that facilitate a transition beyond growth. In short, the fatal problem with the growth model is that it relies on an extent of decoupling that quickly becomes unachievable. We simply cannot make a growing supply of food, clothes, houses, cars, appliances, gadgets, etc. with 15, 30, or 60 times less energy and resources than we do today. To make matters worse for the defenders of green growth, research published in 2015 by the US Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (Wiedmann et al, 2015) has debunked the widespread myth that the developed nations are already in process of significant decoupling. It turns out that what developed nations have mainly been doing is outsourcing energy and resource intensive manufacturing and recoupling it elsewhere, especially China. The consequence is that as the world naïvely pursues green growth, the environmental crisis 3 continues to worsen. Technology and free markets are not the salvation they promised to be. 3 and 3 of 8

136 4 This argument is supported by my submissions to: the Environment Southland 2015 LTP ; the Otago Southland Land Transport Plan ; the 2016 ORC RPS consultation process (a brief 6 of evidence on energy, in support of the Wise Response submission), and the 2016 Venture 7 Southland Annual Plan. In these submissions, and as the Wise Response Society has made 8 clear in its submission to the Productivity Commission s Inquiry into the transition to a low emissions economy, the risks associated with pursuing primarily GDP growth are now far too large to continue to ignore. An alternative approach is definitely needed. A Changing Policy Environment It is therefore a huge step forwards in terms of governmental thinking, that the coalition government has elected to move towards reinstatement of the 4 well-beings to the Local Government Act: These importantly acknowledge that local authorities have a broader role in 9 fostering liveable communities, than simply providing core services. Alongside a significant changing of the guard in the National Party, ongoing, this can be seen as a permanent change in the way that we value and prioritise our spending. Whilst it remains true that the primary objective of TLA s in New Zealand at this point is in the core services of roads, rubbish and rates, an opportunity is growing. Communities around the country will need an alternative vision, and a unifying narrative around which to reorganise. I know of no organisations better placed to provide this, than TLA s around New Zealand. Consider the following as the suggested start of a larger 2050 vision, fit for the challenges we face. Add to this the operative Regional Policy Statement for ES, which states: The National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management 2014 (NPS-FM) sets out objectives and policies that direct local government to manage water in an integrated and sustainable way, while providing for economic growth within water quantity and quality limits. This RPS must give effect to the NPS-FM, as well as any other relevant National Policy Statements. (Chapter 4) Note the recent comments re water quality from the new Environment Minister:...Because implementing the standards is up to regional authorities, some parts of the country are further ahead than others. Canterbury, Otago and Waikato have made substantial progress, while Southland, Auckland and Taranaki have not, the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) said in its most recent review and of 8

137 ...Parker says a new statement would go much further and put rules on other forms of pollutants. "We're trying to get something formal by the middle of this 10 year," he says. Note my comments to the WALP consultation regarding growth, and the highlighted within in the quote from the RPS above, giving the correct hierarchy 11 where GDP growth is subservient to functional ecosystems and a livable planet. Note also this summer s drought, and the Oreti river s minimum flow of around 2 cumecs, against the 2009 observation that the minimum average low flow was 12 around 8.9 cumecs. Issue NH.3, Objective NH.1, regarding Community becoming more Resilient, Policy NH.3 - Precautionary approach using Methods NH.1-3, 5-13, 15, 16 (Chapter 8, Page 106). 13 Note my comments to the last LTP consultation and the WALP consultation regarding the need to think more broadly than simply Natural Hazards. There is a clear opportunity to tweak our Natural Hazard risk management and emergency preparedness activities to give better long term outcomes in light of other extant risks, as identified by Wise Response. This should take the form of broadening our risk management framework to include at the very minimum the high probability, high impact risks associated with: the next, and subsequent, financial crises; geopolitical instability driven by resource depletion, and probable effects on the steady supply of liquid fuels and other critical resources; the effects of climate change. Note that a precautionary approach implies not doing certain things, in preference to doing them and dealing with the consequences. As our current path is in a literal and absolute sense unsustainable, that is it cannot, and will not be sustained, we must stop doing the things creating this situation and prefer alternative approaches. In my 2016 submission to the Venture Southland Annual Plan consultation, I outlined principles and strategies that would make this possible at the community level. Integrated Landscape Management: there are many references to an integrated approach in the RPS. Wise Response has been working with the Otago Regional Council to illustrate what an integrated approach might mean in practice. Refer to the 14 Wise Response submission to the ORC LTP consultation which recommends: i. that the legal provisions, policies and draft policies identified be given particular regard when considering this submission recommendations and finalising the LTP Table and of 8

138 ii. that there needs to be a section at in the LTP that sets down clearly the assumptions about the context for the LTP over the next 10 years taking into account current scientifically validated biophysical trends. iii. that the ORC allocate funds in the LTP to establish and facilitate a collaborative process that will enable landowners to design economic pathways that comply with the remaining emissions budget to stabilise the climate according to the Paris COP21 International Agreement. iv. that a Regional Land Plan be developed to provide the legal mechanism and common framework for implementing a genuinely integrated climate change emissions reduction, mitigation and response, that includes biodiversity. It is my strong recommendation that ES and ORC explore ways to combine their efforts to enact a formal response to this recommendation, and do so urgently, at a scale and level of funding commensurate with the risks. An alternate vision for 2050 Written from a 2050 perspective: As the industrial era draws inexorably to a close, running out of affordable energy and material resources to exploit, and with climate change related challenges ongoing, we are grateful. Thirty years ago, it was unimaginable to envision a society defined by the inevitable changes implied 15 by an 80% reduction in energy and resource throughput. Understanding the issues in the way that we did, we were able to chart a relatively steady course for our community through uncharted waters. Whilst life has become materially harder, as the affordability of many of the basic resources we relied on has decreased, we haven t felt it as much as we might. This is thanks to a shift in how we measured well-being. In 2018, moving away from the purely financial measures that drove decision making through the (very nearly disastrous) years where the shibboleth of economic growth was worshipped with religious fervour, was the start of that shift. The confluence of increasingly violent and expensive storms and an oil price shock, and 16 after, a permanent decline in the total oil supply, year on year, from 2020, was enough to break the back of New Zealand s industrial economy. Being entirely reliant on efficient but brittle 17 supply chains, at the same time as the decline in US influence globally went into steep decline, meant other countries were far more able than us to secure the material resources and goods we needed to sustain business as usual. The Baby Boomers holding predominant control of capital allocation in this new economy took the news poorly at first. The breakdown of their expectation that their pension funds and capital bit.ly/trdoff 6 of 8

139 assets (primarily housing) would provide the basis for a comfortable retirement hit them hard. To their credit, they realised that they lacked the energy and vision to lead the step change required in our economy. They handed the strategic decision making over to the upcoming Gen X/Y leaders, and, as happens in every happier era, empowered their children to take the decisive action they couldn t. As the trust was rebuilt between these generations, the Boomer s fears of who will care for us in our retirement were ameliorated. Realising that the skills they had from a lifetime of hard work were still hugely valuable, they took to passing on the practical skills they had to the Millennials with great alacrity, receiving enjoyable company and great mana in return. It turned out that the human condition hadn t actually changed much in the brief period of wild, fossil fueled, material excess that had characterised the 20th century. Thankfully Kurt Vonnegut was wrong to suggest that the legacy of the Boomers could be captured in the phrase Dear Future Generations, forgive us. We were rolling drunk on petroleum... Response to the specifics of the consultation ES Significant Assumptions and Risks Comments on the Strategic Intent document: It is very encouraging that the council is seeking to be future focused ( Investment in the Future ). But how close are you to actually achieving that goal? The Connectivity - Thinking Holistically segment description contains many encouraging words. But what do they mean? Below are my thoughts: Thinking holistically should be (with reference to Kate Raworth s doughnut economics ), acknowledging and managing the linkages between the Sustainable Development Goals, the Economy s output of GDP AND WELLBEING (cf my comments on the 4 well beings, and ongoing Treasury work on the living standards framework), and fundamental biophysical constraints on future economic activity (primarily oil supply, but other resource flows too). Refer to the Wise Response submission to 18 the Productivity Commission for more on this point. Multi-dimensional solutions can only be reached if there is a risk management planning process that factors in economic, energy of 8

140 and environmental risks, in addition to the natural hazards the current RPS seeks to manage. Additionally, many of the challenges we face are, from our current perspective better classified as dilemmas than problems. There are no right solutions, multi dimensional, or otherwise, if the goal is sustaining anything even close to business as usual. Rather, we must aim for a strategy that, Seeing the broader picture and the connections, recognises the fundamental constraints on future economic activity that we face due to resource and environmental limits, and aims for a level that is within these limits. Refer to my comments regarding the simpler way in my submission, for an overview of what this looks like. Policy Revenue & Financing The council s consideration of Funding Sources fails to identify a potentially major source of 20 funding if it were to seek investment funding - bond issuance, and specifically green bonds, as a mechanism to attract funding for projects that mitigate climate change. This includes, but is not limited to funding increases to the clean heat initiative around loans to replace solid fuel heaters, work under the Land And Water Plan, etc. Note also the new green investment bank from the new central government, and the opportunities therein for early movers. Key Assumptions Please refer to my comments re assumptions in my submission to the Invercargill City Council 21 LTP consultation. The general point I make is that the economic assumptions are not fit for purpose, and in particular, the assumption of no surprises is manifestly ridiculous. Ends of 8

141 Submitter No 10 Bryan Barnes

142 iirvtxuftmfill 1 ( MAY 2018 ) Ptease te[[ us youi'views By 4.30pm, Wednesday 16 May 2018 We are keen to get your views. lf you need more space please contlnue on a separate plece of paper and attach. ) Environment Southland Long-term Plan consultation Do you support urban stop bank upgrade construction works on the Waihopai River, Kingswell and Otepuni Streams starting after 2028? l-l Preferred option 1 ff optlon z Llo.., At {o-?ios/ a^,lchrrxewrl.> pc.- Q-t,'{, J Do you support an increase of our water improvement activity through the introduction of a new water improvement rate in 20f9/20? T ereferred option 1 f, optonz?r,-1.u (),'\ I.i1.^ <q $th<rrrl B f., qn-j f.al "i' UrOo.r)of 1'.pclea16r.. \& h.r.l- r\o \;s",j*l- al=r:ilo.,^ t.*[ \A)r hr,t" 4c-oi11 in --9:tr egtil-!---li:olc.r-- UCbtrl Feedback on another matter/s Fees and charges consuttation Environrrcrlt Southtanci s fees and chargcs havc bccrr rcvicwcd. Thcrc arc sorrlc nc!v oncs. and cxisting ortes havc i nc reased. A st.rtcmcnt of proposal: Fees ond Chorges for is now out for consultation and available online at \,1\,vw.e s.govt.nz or fronr Environment Southland BB 45. Submissions close 4.30pm, Wednesday, 16 May ) Other consultation Revenue and Financing Policy Review Do you agree with retaining the dairy differential rate for a further year to contribute to the water improvement activity? PI ereferred option I f, opuon z Long-term Plan Consultation Document 3 1

143 ) Seeking your feedback What do you think of our approach to improving water quality through the People, Water and Land programme? P.oo" What do you think of our approach to the Whakamana te Waituna programme? r..oj c 0*t, ; Feedback on another matte/fk 4.. ", o{f Q^o* G,o. +, o u], Pu* farr.a,^nj ( th<- Or'9tu/ Ll( -/\#e5 b C.9P oi Ot."rr5 or.*{ rf,:o.r\ crl'l,r,rn l;r,- -(]n6 i,rg lucli 4D.t- -\ D,T! o-r'.' lt o$\ [i-l,l.'.-a.,, P'>{ l^--, C, f g.-kf, c!r{1d( nije/6, /loo"; Ao.,',.-4 (..1^., /orl<-.. s When counci[[ors hear submissions on this consultation document, do you want to presentyourviews [n person? Yes fl *o t0o"b-q U Pleose note: Upon request, we ore legolly required to make oll written or electronic submissions ovailoble to the public, including the nome ond oddress of the submitter, subiectto the provisions ofthe Locol Government Official lnformotion ond Meetings Act lfyou consider there ore compelling reosons why your contoctdetoils ond/or submission should be kept confidentiol, you should contoctthe council's Strotegy ond Corporote Planning Monoger Contact details Name er\ &oano-a Organisation (if representing): Organisation role: postaladdress: tlfl OrcpuLr- R.,o*[o^ l]*n R.O I Postcode: 9*tt1. Phone: ci %Le Signatu re:,n/2c Date: 3ts We ca n receive you r feed back in a n u m ber of ways a Mait Freepost Authority No Environment Southtand Private Bag lnvercargill 9840 Delivery Environment Southland Cnr North Rd & Price St lnvercargill (A/H please post at the door) 6I EI Ontine consu ltatio n@es.govt. nz ] service@es.govt.nz ] es.govt.nz I facebook.com/environmentsouthtand For now & our future

144 Submitter No 26 Te Ao Marama Inc

145 Environment Southland Long Term Plan Consultation Document Te Ao Marama Inc. Submission Submitter Eva Hendriks Organisation Te Ao Marama Inc. Postal Address 408 Tramway Road, South Invercargill, 9844 Phone (03) Date 16/05/2018 Presentation of submission: I wish to speak to the Mayor and Councillors about my submission ES Issue TAMI Priorities Preferred Comments Option Whakamana te Waituna Restoring the mana of te Waituna We support on-going efforts of the communities, Councils and stakeholders to ensure that the Waituna lagoon and catchment are a part of a landscape where mahinga kai, farming, recreation, conservation, biodiversity, clean water and thriving communities exist in harmony. That the efforts can be seen as a great model for us and our future generations, we acknowledge this cannot happen overnight but we also acknowledge that actions need to continue urgently. We support the Whakamana te Waituna programme. Urban stop bank upgrade Safety and resilience for the people 1 or 2 Community Resilience is extremely important. Ngai Tahu are undertaking work programmes within their Rūnanga to ensure resilience of their marae, their people and communities. In the event of natural emergencies marae can become one of the focal points for communities. TAMI supports the option to upgrade the urban stop banks to provide increased resilience and protection for urban residents. It should however be noted that large flooding events may become more regular and sea level rise may impact on urban areas around the coast as a result of climate change. Studies have been done around areas most at risk from flooding because of sea level rise. Although stock banks upgrades may alleviate potential future risks, good town planning around risk areas should be maintained. The unified approach to climate change by councils through mechanisms such as the Mayoral forum is supported. Iwi also believe we have a part to play in providing resilience and understanding climate change. We encourage community resilience through the project AF8. Southland is not immune to Ruaimoko and should make provisions.

146 Water Improvement rate Whakanui te mana o te wai 1 Wai is essential if we are to live and thrive upon this earth. Its quality and quantity is essential if tangata (humans), other living organisms are to thrive and natural geological events are to occur. The Council continue to engage communities and partners by working together, sharing resources and acknowledging this approach makes sense. The continued engagement and consultation with Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku around a partnership model continues to be supported and applauded. We support option 1 to provide an essential increase in funding to pay for the implementation of our People, Water and Land programme but within that do not support the incorporated removal of the dairy differential rate. Cultural Monitoring Programme For us to participate with our partners in the sustainable management of our environment and for it to thrive it is important that we bring our cultural lens to the mahi. We look to the past, learn from the present and have aspiration for the future. Having an understanding of the present environment is important for us and the need for Iwi to undertake research to bring Mātauranga Māori to input into environmental work programs is essential. Cultural monitoring and research programs are being undertaking throughout the country. Ngāi Tahu ki Murihiku intend to design and implement a programme. The programme will continue in perpetuity collecting data for us and our children. Some information gathered would be used to support and work alongside ES in our mission to have a thriving Southland. We would like council to consider setting aside funds in the budget to provide for a Murihiku Cultural Monitoring Programme starting in 2018 and ongoing. This programme would supply the needed information for the People, Water and Land programme. Dairy Differential rate 2 We support to continue the dairy differential rate for a further year and beyond.

147 Submitter No 25 Christine Henderson

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153 Submitter No 22 Ernslaw One

154 PO Box Woolston, Christchurch May 2018 Environment Southland Private Bag Invercargill 9840 Attention: Rob Phillips CE Submitted by Environment Southland s Long-term Plan Working together for a thriving Southland now and for our future and Environment Southland s Revenue and Financing Policy review Fees and Charges Submitter: Contact: Ernslaw One Ltd. Peter Weir (Peter.Weir@ernslaw.co.nz) Address for Service: Ernslaw One Ltd PO Box Woolston, Christchurch 8241 Attn: Manager - Environment & Corporate Relations Trade Competition: Ernslaw One could not gain an advantage in trade competition through this submission. About Ernslaw One Ernslaw One Limited (Ernslaw) owns four rating units in Upper Aparima Valley, in the Southland Region totalling 8,660 ha. This area is predominantly planted in Douglas fir plantation from which clear felling is not likely to begin until at least 2035, but with thinto-waste and some small-scale production thinning involving low impact ground-based harvesting machines and other silvicultural activity and pest control on-going (low intensity log extraction activity will depend on log markets and season). 1

155 We are grateful for the opportunity to submit on Environment Southland s Long-term Plan and the proposed Fees and Charges policy. Southland s Long-term Plan In response to specific questions on Council s on-line form, at Ernslaw submits: Q2. Do you support an increase of our water improvement activity through the introduction of a new water improvement rate in 2019/20? Ernslaw strongly supports Council taking strong and urgent action to improve water quality, give that obvious decline in water quality that is highly correlated with agricultural intensification and the expansion of dairy in Southland. Nowhere is this more evident than in the catchment of the Waituna Lagoon. Ernslaw does not favour socialising the cost of agricultural pollution via a new rate on all land owners in the Southland Region but rather urges Council to apply the polluter pays principal on which the Resource Management Act is founded and in particular Council makes good on its statutory role as the environmental regulator by exercising its powers under RMA Sections 14 (Restrictions relating to water) and Section 15 (Discharge of contaminants into environment). Ernslaw has previously submitted on the Southland Water and Land Plan urging action on Regional stock exclusion rules, in the absence of National direction from MfE & MPI. Plantation forestry delivers a range of important ecosystem services, amongst which is high quality, potable water without E.coli and with levels of P or N similar to native forest, so it would be entirely inappropriate to apply any such proposed rate the owners of land in plantation forest, including farmers for that part of the farm occupied by farm woodlots. To rate the owners of land in plantation forest for water improvement would be to lock in place a wholly unjust cross-subsidy to those in the dairy sector without herd homes with integral effluent systems, or to those sheep and beef farms that operate intensive winter grazing regimes or pasture based dairy support in winter. To substantiate these statements, we draw Council s attention to the Hawkes Bay Regional Council s Pakuratahi paired land use study (2006), on line at especially chapter 5: Forestry Effects on Sediment Yield and Erosion, and Chapter 6: Forestry Effects on Water Quality, which shows that a hill country plantation forest in a much more erodible geological setting that anywhere in Southland, through its entire life cycle (including first rotation road building 2

156 and the subsequent harvest) put out less than one third the sediment of an adjacent hill country sheep and beef farming operation, and with a 20% reduction in total runoff due to canopy interception of rainfall (evaporation during rainstorms) and lower flood peaks in all but the largest storms. Extract: Figure 4 of HBRC Pakuratahi paired catchment study - Sediment yield. Key- Tamingimingi = hill country pasture (note that units are in tonnes/km 2 /year) - Pakuratahi = hill country forestry Given that Southland is much less susceptible to erosion than Hawkes bay hill country (i.e. the geology and soil is stronger and rainfall intensity less), we would expect the forestry sediment yields shown above to be 10x less in Southland. Ernslaw then draws attention to the chronic sediment yields from winter pasture based on work of McDowell and Wilcock (2008) of Agresearch published in the New Zealand Veterinary Journal 56(6), Water quality and the effects of different pastoral animals, which puts mixed farming, and especially deer, including studies from Southland, at the same maximum (immediate post-harvest) sediment yield recoded in the Pakuratahi hill country land use study, and at least 10 times if not 100 times the baseline (pre-harvest) yield for moderate to steepland plantation forests in Southland. 3

157 Extract: Figure 4 McDowell and Wilcock (2008) Key the left most box None refers to non-pastoral land use including exotic and native forest. (note that units are in kg/ha/year; 1000 kg/ha/y = 100 tonnes/km 2 /y ) We believe that the McDowell & Wilcox study highlights the folly of imposing a universal water improvement rate across all competing rural land uses. 4

158 Q2. Do you agree with retaining the dairy differential rate for a further year to contribute to the Water Improvement activity? Ernslaw supports the imposition of the current differential rate but submits that the differential is insufficient to address water quality impacts amongst competing land uses. Thus, we advocate for increasing the rate and extending it for the life of the plan ( ), a decade. Importantly Ernslaw submits Council should use this rate to send a strong policy signal to change behaviour in the dairy sector by rewarding those who operate herd homes with integral effluent systems, or other low intensity dairy farms, where Nitrate modelling via the most current version of Overseer, as audited by an independent third party, shows an annual leaching rate to be under 20kg/ha (or any lower limit that Council sets). Low leaching dairy farms should be exempt from this rate or have their dairy rate rebated. A blanket rate risks penalising those good dairy farmers who have committed working capital and expended effort to lower their environmental footprint to match the assimilative capacity of the catchment in which they operate. Environment Southland s Revenue and Financing Policy review Fees and Charges Pre-harvest site inspection Council has signalled new charges for monitoring permitted plantation forestry activities under regulation 106 of the Resource Management (National Environmental Standards for Plantation Forestry) Regulations On page 12, Council signals an intent to charge for a Pre-harvest site inspection including an instream macroinvertebrate survey by a biologist, if conditions are appropriate to be initially charged at $1200, increasing to $1255 within two years. Ernslaw recognises the right of Warranted Council officers to enter our forests under RMA Section 332 or 333, but points out that Council cannot charge for any such inspection under regulation 106 of the NES-PF, for the simple reason that harvesting activity will not have commenced at the time of any Pre-harvest site inspection. Put simply, to charge for a Pre-harvest site inspection would by ultra-vires as its not activity monitoring. If such monitoring is judged necessary then it should be funded out of Councils State of the Environment budget. To avoid repetition and overlap, Ernslaw formally requests that Council note that we concur with and supports the five (5) submissions made by Rayonier Matariki Forests Ltd on this matter. 5

159 Hearing: If Council is to hear submissions on its long-term plan 2018 to 2028 then Ernslaw requests to be heard in support of its submission and is prepared to consider presenting their submission in the same session as Rayonier Matariki Forests Ltd whose submission we have read and support. Thank you for the opportunity to present this submission. We look forward to amplifying these points the Council hearing. Peter Weir Manager - Environment & Corporate Support Ernslaw One Ltd Ph Copy - Ernslaw One South Island Regional Office, Tapanui, West Otago Attn: Phil De La Mare 6

160 Submitter No 54 Rayonier Matariki Forests

161 Steve Chandler Name - Name: Organisation - Organisation (if representing): Organisation role - Organisation role: Postal address - Postal address: Postcode - Postcode: Phone - Phone: - Hearing - When Councillors hear submissions on the Long-term Plan consultation document, do you want to present your views in person? Urban stop bank upgrade - Do you support urban stop bank upgrade construction works on the Waihopai River, Kingswell and Otepuni Streams starting after 2028? Water improvement rate - Do you support an increase of our water improvement activity through the introduction of a new water improvement rate in 2019/20? Revenue and Financing Policy Review - Do you agree with retaining the dairy differential rate for a further year to contribute to the Water Improvement activity? People, Water and Land programme - What do you think of our approach to improving water quality through the People, Water and Land programme? Whakamana te Waituna - What do you think of our approach to the Whakamana te Waituna programme? Other feedback question - Feedback on other matters: File upload - Use this section if you want to attach supporting documentation. Steve Chandler Rayonier Matariki Forests Environmental Manager PO Box 745 Rangiora steve.chandler@rayonier.com Yes Preferred Option 1 Preferred Option 1 Preferred Option 1 Support initiatives Support approach Object to proposed NES-PF compliance monitoring fees and charges which are in conflict with the NES-PF legislation

162 Rayonier Matariki Forests PO Box 745 Rangiora 7440 Submission Southland Regional Council Submission on 2018/2028 Long -Term Plan -Southland Regional Council Fees and Charges Charges for Monitoring under the National Environmental Standard for Plantation Forestry (NESPF) pages12-13 Submitter Rayonier Matariki Forests (RMF) owns approximately 30,000ha in in the region and has operated in Southland since RMF is a member of New Zealand Forest Owners Association Inc which was a member of the MPI/MfE working group on the NESPF. We OBJECT to the setting of the charges as proposed. The charges do not appear to be well thought out and in particular the charges are a misuse of the power to be able to fix a charge by proposing a monitoring regime which is not prescribed as a condition under the NESPF. The proposal appears to be a copy of the proposed charges for the Taranaki Regional Council, a region with very different geology and soil type to Southland. Submission 1. Comparisons with Taranaki Regional Council. SRC has historically had few rules controlling forest activities. Given the lack of highly erodible soils in the region this is understandable. With regard to regional council functions for controlling land uses for erosion control and water quality reasons, SRC Council has had the ability since 1991, to introduce regional rules to control forestry land use activities. It has chosen not to. The research undertaken by SRC prior to the proposed Water and Land Plan (PWLP) even on the Pallic soils, with naturally higher bulk densities and often poor drainage, the report (Overland Flow Risk Southland) stated on page 10 that: As the majority of these areas are under native bush and forestry, the actual loss by overland flow may be minimised Southland region has very different geology and soil structure to that of the Taranaki Region. Under the PWLP this council, for water quality reasons could be more stringent than the proposals in the NESPF. However, it is clear from the SRC research that there is no need to introduce more stringent rules for forestry. So, our question is, why is SRC following Taranaki with this proposal? Submission 2 The lack of any need for a monitoring charge.

163 Our question is what has changed between previous Long-term Plans and now? Yes, the NESPF does allow for a charge but we question what risk is SRC concerned with? The process under the NESPF is for the forester to give notification of its activities and for certain activities it must prepare a forestry earthworks management plan. The council can then choose to request a copy or not. This provision was introduced so that councils, where there is limited risk, need not request a copy of the plan. The forester still has to prepare the plan and if the council later has an issue with an operation it may still request a copy of the plan. We are yet to be advised if SRC is going to request copies of forestry earthworks management plans. Submission 3 There is no statutory power to establish a monitoring regime by way of the power to fix a charge. The NESPF does not provide a power to set a monitoring regime for permitted activities. While regulation 106 of the NESPF allows for the setting of a monitoring charge it does not provide that SRC can go beyond the scope of the NESPF and set up a monitoring regime by way of its fees policy. Section 36 of RMA provides the power to the SRC to fix a charge for various RMA functions. Section 36AAA provides criteria. Neither section provides the power to set a monitoring regime. The proposed charges by SRC in this plan are ultra vires the RMA in that they try, by way of a power to fix a charge, to set up a monitoring regime. Trying to require a pre- site condition and a post-harvest inspection is beyond the scope of section 36 of the RMA and also beyond the scope of the permitted activity conditions set out in the NESPF. While there are a number of notice provisions and a condition requiring the preparation of forestry earthwork management plans there is absolutely no requirement, in the NESPF, to have a pre-commencement site visit and one where a forester is required to discuss their proposed compliance. Nor is there any condition in the NESPF that a MCI survey be undertaken prior to being able to commence operating. Submission 4 While the power to charge cannot establish a monitoring regime we question the focus on trying to require i- stream MCI monitoring. The research the SRC undertook on Ecosystem Health included A Review of Bethnic Macroinvertebrate Metrics for Assessing Stream Ecosystem Health undertaken by Cawthron in There was certainly no recommendation that MCI should be used for compliance monitoring and in fact the recommendations all suggested further research and more data reference sites be developed. Within a forest there are numerous waterbodies and it appears that SRC is proposing that all waterbodies are to have MCI surveys. This will amount to tens of thousands of dollars for such surveys. Forestry has not been identified as a land use causing water quality issues in the region. Yet, the proposals will be very expensive and far more costly as to the monitoring undertaken and paid for dairy farm discharges. Our concern with MCI being proposed to be used as a compliance tool is in line with the advice given by the Cawthron report. Attributing a change in MCI to land uses is not an exact science and

164 certainly not one for RMA compliance purposes. There may be a change to MCI in a forest stream but can that be attributed to: a. sediment overland flow, or b. Stream bank erosion, not caused by any forest activity, or c. a storm event that washes out a stream? SRC could, but not by a section 36 charge, establish a monitoring regime. However, if it does so we question the need to require a forester to undertake MCI surveys of any and all its waterbodies. Submission 4 Confusion with the use of deposits. In the explanation there is mention of deposits but deposits are not included in the fees. Clearly an issue with cut and paste from the Taranaki proposal. Deposits are relevant to resource consent but here we are dealing with permitted activities. The explanation of the fees therefore, gives no valid reason for the imposition of the charges. Submission 5 Expectations We expected SRC to, following its research as to risk from forestry, to undertake monitoring of some forestry activities. As with other permitted activities we would expect such monitoring to be risk based. Charges would set as for any site inspection of land use. Steve Chandler Environmental Manager Rayonier Matariki Forests Ph

165 Submitter No 55 Roger Hodgkinson

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167 Submitter No 33 (LTP) Submitter No 10 (F&C) Meridian Energy

168 SUBMISSION TO THE DRAFT ENVIRONMENT SOUTHLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL LONG TERM PLAN & SUPPORTING FINANCING POLICIES To: Chair & Councillors Environment Southland Private Bag Invercargill Name: Meridian Energy Limited PO Box 2146 CHRISTCHURCH Attention: Andrew Feierabend Phone: (03) Mobile: Meridian Energy Limited (Meridian) makes the following submissions on the consultation document Working together for a Thriving Southland For now & our future and supporting financial documentation Long Term Plan as set out in the attached document. Meridian would like to be heard in support of its submission. For and behalf of Meridian Energy Limited Dated this 16th day of May 2018

169 SUBMISSION TO THE DRAFT ENVIRONMENT SOUTHLAND S DRAFT LONG TERM CONSULTATION DOCUMENT & ASSOCIATED POLICIES SUBMITTER: MERIDIAN ENERGY LIMITED (Meridian) ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 1. Meridian appreciates the constructive relationship it has with Environment Southland and wants to continue this. 2. The strategic objectives of Environment Southland and Meridian are aligned in a desire to see a thriving Southland from the perspective of positive environmental, social economic and cultural outcomes. The nature of Meridian s operations and assets contribute to these objectives through: renewable power generation provision of recreation opportunities maintaining important ecological and cultural values supporting catchment initiatives in the Waiau catchment moderating potential flooding from heavy rainfall events providing funding and support to the Southland community outside the rating system. 3. Meridian values the relationship with Environment Southland and wishes to make a fair and reasonable contribution to the Council s activities which it considers it does NATURE OF MERIDIAN S OPERATION 4. Meridian owns and operates the renewable underground power generation at Manapouri and the White Hill Wind farm at Felton Road. The Manapouri Power Scheme has had a impact on the flow of the Lower Waiau River. This has been offset through: a. a number of consenting requirements which the Council administers, b. written agreements covering identified impacts, c. voluntary arrangements; and d. the establishment of a number of Trusts for mitigation purposes CURRENT CONTRIBUTION 5. Meridian currently contributes a significant rating to the Council s operations. Approximately $400,000 of that amount is provided to the Lower Waiau River Catchment Group for fairway management. This is provided as a result of negotiations and concluded agreement at the time of consenting the MPS in In addition to this Meridian also provides a $50,000 voluntary annual contribution to the Mararoa Fairway clearance programme between the Key Bridge and the Mararoa/Waiau River Weir. This contribution will be reviewed as time goes on in the context of the work paid for as was agreed with the Council in Meridian s also contributes a voluntary contribution of $80,0000 to assist the Council fund its science programme in meeting its planning objectives and needs in the Region. 8. Environmental monitoring of the freshwater environment in the Waiau catchment is also undertaken in accordance with a comprehensive suite of resource consent conditions and obligations to the Guardians of Lakes Te Anau, Manapouri and Monowai, overall this

170 entails a spend of approximately $800,000 per annum The outcomes of this monitoring are provided to Environment Southland and are public information. 9. The Council is seeking feedback on a new water improvement rate to be considered in the 2019 financial year and be consulted on. The stated purpose of this is too more clearly apportion the costs of achieving water quality outcomes based on who uses and benefits from that water use. It is understood this proposals along with the possible removal of the dairy differential will be consulted on through the 2019/20 Annual Plan process. 10. Meridian is concerned that the fees and charges review has been undertaken in isolation from the above decision making. This has the potential to create inappropriate funding allocation decisions given the combined effect of the above reviews particulalry in the context of large users of surface water. Relief Sought That the Council defer any decision making on fees and charges for large users of surface takes until the FY19 Annual Plan Process so that the charging regime can take into account any funding allocation decisions associated with introducing a new targeted water improvement rate and or the removal of the dairy differential. Note: Meridian will lodge a companion submission to the fees and charges Statement of Proposal which has been extended to the 23 May 2018

171 Submission on the Statement of proposal: Fees and Charges for To Submitter Environment Southland Meridian Energy Limited PO Box 2146 Christchurch Attention: Andrew Feierabend Phone: (03) Mobile: Meridian Energy Limited (Meridian) makes the following submission to Environment Southland (ES) on the Statement of proposal: Fees and Charges for (Proposal). This is in addition to the general submission it lodged on the Council s LTP. 2 Meridian would like to be heard in support of its submission. Background 3 Meridian has been in discussions with ES staff and have been provided with some additional material. Engagement with staff is appreciated. Meridian contributes a significant contribution to Council rates and revenue via other charges and contributions. The current and proposed fees under consideration are those set out in Table 1 at the end of this submission. 4 Meridian holds resource consents to operate the Manapouri Power Scheme (MPS). These require detailed, and costly environmental monitoring of the environment related to the MPS. This monitoring is currently costing between $520,000 and $780,000 per year. This monitoring information is provided to Environment Southland and provides a detailed long-standing record of the condition of the Waiau catchment. In addition to this monitoring Meridian has in accordance with an agreement reached with ES management been making a voluntary annual contribution of $80,000 to assist ES in meeting its state of environment science objectives within the Region. 5 Meridian have been told by ES staff that a new "special large water user charge" was proposed in the Proposal as amounting to $284,368. Meridian understand staff now recommend this amount be charged to Meridian as $128, In order to assist Meridian has drafted this submission to provide for alternative relief being either Option (a) or (b) as outlined below. That is, in the first instance Meridian seeks the Special large water charge not apply and if not successful, Meridian in the alternative is willing to confirm a voluntary contribution on an interim basis until a more appropriate charging method is agreed on. Option (a) - Special large water charge 7 For the reasons that follow Meridian oppose this new charge. This submission is in two parts. Meridian has raised with ES staff through this consultation period serious legal and double counting concerns. Some of these have been reconsidered by ES staff who now recommend changes in an attempt to address these. In terms of the overall proposal Meridian considers it is not reasonable nor justified because: (a) (b) There is a lack of adequate justification that the criteria of section 36AAA (4) of the RMA has been appropriately applied to the MPS; There is a failure to take into account the existing resource consent compliance monitoring undertaken by Meridian and reported to ES (and which includes identifying and managing page 1

172 both existing and any unexpected environmental effects associated with the operation of the MPS); (c) (d) (e) There is a failure to recognise voluntary contributions Meridian has agreed to make to assist ES to meet its state of environment science objectives within the Region; The basis for calculating the charge for surface takes of more than 50,000m 3 does not amount to a fixed charge at all. It refers to "As above plus a negotiated rate for additional volume" which is unlawful; and There is an incorrect calculation in that the volumetric charge proposed to be applied to consents and consent is double counted. Reasons 8 The Long-term Plan (LTP) increases funding from charges for science and monitoring programmes from 7% to 20% of total costs 1. This increase is then transposed into the Proposal. Under section 36(1) (c) of the RMA whereby a council can fix charges for monitoring resource consents. However, these charges "must be either specific amounts or determined by reference to scales of charges or other formulae fixed by the local authority" 2. In addition they must be fixed in accordance with section 36AAA (attached). The criteria in section 36AAA require the charge to be incurred by ES to either benefit Meridian, or be as a result of Meridian's activities. For completeness Meridian has been unable to identify the type or degree of benefit from the science and monitoring programmes to be funded through the proposed charge on Meridian, nor are we aware of the programme being triggered or necessary as a result of Meridian s activities. A copy of the programme is attached to Meridians submission. 9 There has been some discussion of this charge in the staff Memorandum of 16 February 2018 "Waiau catchment science costs". This Memorandum notes that "The fluxes and flows work programme has clear benefits for Meridian, but programmes such as Land Use Inputs and the Physiographics of Southland also provide / have provided valuable information." This document then acknowledges that "Almost all flow information in the catchment is collected by Meridian as part of the consent condition requirements on their resource consents. Meridian do their own monitoring on the Mararoa and Waiau Rivers which we monitor one site for Meridian at Te Wae Wae (we get $7,000 of cost recovery for this)." Meridian is already undertaking an enormous amount of monitoring, which is appropriate, as part of its resource consents. It should not have to pay for wider monitoring work that benefits the community as a whole. It is not Meridian's actions that require the need for increased monitoring throughout the region. 10 The annual water and research monitoring charges are set out on page 11 of the Proposal. The Proposal provides no analysis of how the statutory criteria apply to Meridian or any other large water users. The extent to which ES has applied the statutory criteria to Meridian, or other large water users, to determine whether the water charge is fair and reasonable in the circumstances is not explained. For example it is not clear in this Proposal how the proposed benefits of the monitoring that are being charged to Meridian in any way exceed the likely benefit to the community or ES as a whole, nor the extent to which the monitoring charge arises from the actions of Meridian. 11 A substantial amount of the proposed monitoring undertaken in Southland relates to land use change (particularly dairying), and by association the effect this is having on water quality and in catchments that are unrelated to any environmental impacts from Meridian's consents. 12 The LTP consultation documents suggest that the "People, Water and Land programme" has a focus on implementing the Freshwater National Policy Statement and reductions in nitrogen and 1 Policy Revenue & Finance, page 4 2 Section 36(2) page 2

173 phosphorus 3. This focus is appropriate but any associated monitoring costs should more appropriately and fairly be recovered from those who discharge nitrogen and phosphorus. 13 The exact fee for this new charge is not fixed and not shown in reference to scale of charges or formulae; as required by section 36(2). Instead surface takes of more than 50,000m 3 have a note in the Proposal that says "plus a negotiated rate for additional volume". An unstated "negotiated rate" does not meet the section 36 criteria and is unlawful. The only advice that we have seen to the council on how to recover the 20% of costs was a capped maximum per consent of $15,000. The only analysis and evidence seems to be for a very different charging proposal to the one notified 14 Meridian understands based on this table that ES staff have somehow calculated what the charge would be for Meridian. This is described to Meridian as $284,368 (currently $128,304) for a new monitoring charge. It is unclear how that calculation has been arrived in the context of other users and Meridian do not consider there is information in the table that could lead to any large water user transparently being able to calculate or check the charge intended to be imposed. 15 Meridian understands when applying the charge ES have taken all Meridian's consents and calculated the charge based on the volume of the consented maximum daily take. Meridian has two relevant water permits relating to the MPS. The first (consent number 96024) allows a maximum take of up to 510m 3 a day. The second consent (consent number ) allows a take of up to 550m 3 a day. The overlapping nature of these consents means that the second consent in effect only allows an additional 40m 3 a day being the difference between the first consent (510m 3 a day) and the second consent (550m 3 a day). It appears that the Proposal has just applied both of these as if they were stand-alone consents applying a volume rate of = 1,060m 3 a day. That volume obviously is not real, nor could it be taken. This represents a "double dip" and should be rectified by using the 550 figure rather than 1,060m 3. ES staff changes to the Proposal 16 Meridian has received further analysis from staff and a letter proposing amendments to the original Proposal from ES's Chief Executive. 17 In terms of process Meridian retains concerns because the amendments dated 16 May 2018 make material changes to the original Proposal. While some of these changes are in response to concerns raised by Meridian and provide further information Meridian has been provided three working days to lodge its submission by 9am on 23 May Meridian does not consider this time reasonable or adequate to consider and assess the material changes that have been made. This short timeframe has added to Meridian's costs and places time pressure on it to respond on issues that would normally require more analysis, internal review and consideration. Meridian does submit on this to preserve its position as best it can, but reserves its position in relation to whether the process being followed is lawful and reasonable. Merits 18 The letter from the Chief Executive on 16 May 2018 proposes to amend the charge to a fixed charge rather than a "negotiated rate". 19 The double counting of Meridian's water permits has been acknowledged by staff and proposed amendments made. This is necessary because the correct starting point is important to properly base any charge on the correct volume of water Meridian is entitled to take under its permits. 20 In terms of the Science Programme this has been provided to Meridian (and is attached). It is still not clear to Meridian which of these particular work streams are identified as of benefit to Meridian, compared to other consent holders and the general public, and to what extent. All Meridian can tell from the further information is that from the relevant Science Programmes in the Waiau 3 Long-term Plan Consultation Document, page page 3

174 Catchment 32% is being sought to be recovered from Meridian as a fixed charge without any context or analysis as to the benefits of the programme to Meridian. It is therefore impossible for Meridian to meaningfully respond in the time given as to whether 32% of each of the Science Programmes relating to the Waiau Catchment reflects the level of benefit of those Programmes to Meridian. 21 Further to the above, requiring Meridian to contribute 32% towards the Waiau Science Programme that are identified by ES as being of benefit to Meridian exceeds ES's 20% policy cap. It is submitted that for ES to remain consistent with its policies it is only entitled to levy a charge where there is a benefit to a consent holder, and that benefit should be identified up to ES's self-imposed cap of 20%. Meridian considers the most ES could validly levy (i.e. if it can demonstrate the benefit to Meridian) under this existing policy is 20% of the $400,000 work stream or an amount of $80,000. Option (b) Voluntary contribution 22 Meridian's alternative solution is based on the following assumptions: (a) (b) (c) (d) (e) (f) For the reasons noted above Meridian has identified a list of significant shortcomings and risk points within the current fees proposed for high surface users and the lack of analysis used to support it. For purposes of transparency and natural justice it isn t appropriate to set charges on the basis of a 20% rate of recovery and then not address the redistribution of that significant shortfall caused through a double accounting exercise applied to Meridians water take. In order for the parties to properly participate in a consultation process on the appropriate level of funding Meridian should contribute to the science programme it should be presented with a complete picture of what that will be. To levy a compulsory charge, there will need to be additional consultation on a new proposal, the necessity for Council officers to engage with Councillors, the requirement to provide Meridian and any others affected with any new proposal and a reasonable opportunity to respond to it. While strictly speaking an additional issue, we understand the Council is investigating a targeted rate to offset its science programme at an FMU level through the LTP process. If this proposal is pursued significant additional costs could accrue to Meridian. This creates an additional potential fairness and equity issue in the context of properly targeting all beneficiaries of the science programme in the Waiau Catchment. That any voluntary contributions to be made by Meridian for the next 12-month period ensures for budgeting purposes a net gain for ES. Alternative Approach 23 Therefore, Meridian propose the Council does not proceed with the high user charge for a 12- month period (i.e. $128,304) for it to appropriately engage with this group of water users as to the type and cap on charging that should apply. This will provide the opportunity to consider alternative arrangements if appropriate in a collaborative, and timely manner and the effect on other consent holders 24 In doing so Meridian is prepared to make a minimum voluntary contribution of $140,000 for specified services in the financial year as noted below. As such Meridian will pay more on a voluntary basis than that being proposed by ES pursuant to the new Special large water charge and which we consider to be a positive public outcome for the next financial year page 4

175 25 This High Water user charge review would then be carried alongside and informed by any targeted rate proposal the Council may want to progress at a FMU level. This will enable Meridian to understand the total obligation which it is being directed to fund. 26 For clarity in the financial year Meridian is prepared to continue to provide a $80,000 voluntary contribution towards the Council Science programme and in addition fund the first year of an agreed augmented water quality programme for the Waiau Catchment. This is currently estimated to cost $60, This programme will be funded by Meridian making use of Council resources and meeting laboratory costs. The information gathered through this augmented water quality programme will be important in assisting the Council developing its planning response to catchment planning through the FMU process. 28 In real terms this proposal is based on a contribution to the Council which is higher than proposed to be collected via the current proposed charge for the next 12-month period and which is targeted on the Waiau Catchment. It also provides the Council the time and opportunity to develop a more robust transparent charging mechanism for recovering 20% of funding for its science programme across all users of natural resources. Conclusion 29 Meridian does not shy away from its monitoring and other environmental obligations. In fact, it has made a strong contribution of many years and recently collaborated closely with the Council to support additional work over the past three years. However, the introduction of the special large water charge has not been properly analysed or explained and is significantly at odds with what was recommended to the Council in the background papers supplied to Meridians particularly in terms of the benefit to Meridian. For these reasons Meridian asks that ES: (a) (b) (c) Specifically takes into consideration as a relevant matter the range and cost of the environmental monitoring that Meridian already carries out and makes available to ES though its resource consents; Undertakes an analysis of the programmes that are to be funded by this new charge and demonstrate why and how this monitoring is required because of Meridian's activities as distinct from the benefit to the community or ES; Withdraws the proposed charge and reworks a more reasonable and justifiable large water charge; Or, in the alternative: (a) Accepts Meridian s voluntary offer being $140,000 in the financial year so to enable a robust process and approach to be explored to ensure the Council Science programme is funded in a way that meets the Council Revenue and Funding Policy and the requirements of section 36AAA of the Resource Management Act. For and on behalf of Meridian Energy Limited Dated this 23rd day of May page 5

176 Table 1 Environment Southland Fees & Charges Annual Science & Monitoring Charges LTP Contribution Type ES Charge Current Charge / Contribution FY18 Annual Administrative Charges $6,963 $7,254 Water Research / Management Charge $13,928 $15,308 Coastal Permit $0 $2,034 Discharge Air $0 $174 Discharge Land $0 $500 Discharge Water $0 $4000 Special Large Water User Charge $0 $128,304 Proposed Charge / Contribution FY19 Sub Total $20,891 $157, page 6

177 36AAA Criteria for fixing administrative charges (1) When fixing charges under section 36, a local authority must have regard to the criteria set out in this section. (2) The sole purpose of a charge is to recover the reasonable costs incurred by the local authority in respect of the activity to which the charge relates. (3) A particular person or particular persons should be required to pay a charge only (a) (b) (c) to the extent that the benefit of the local authority s actions to which the charge relates is obtained by those persons as distinct from the community of the local authority as a whole; or where the need for the local authority s actions to which the charge relates results from the actions of those persons; or in a case where the charge is in respect of the local authority s monitoring functions under section 35(2)(a) (which relates to monitoring the state of the whole or part of the environment), (i) (ii) to the extent that the monitoring relates to the likely effects on the environment of those persons activities; or to the extent that the likely benefit to those persons of the monitoring exceeds the likely benefit of the monitoring to the community of the local authority as a whole. (4) The local authority may fix different charges for different costs it incurs in the performance of its various functions, powers, and duties under this Act (a) (b) in relation to different areas or different classes of applicant, consent holder, requiring authority, or heritage protection authority; or where any activity undertaken by the persons liable to pay any charge reduces the cost to the local authority of carrying out any of its functions, powers, and duties page 7

178 Science Deliverables and Milestones LTP Project Research Questions Deliverables Milestones Comments (including risks and assumptions) Southland Science Programme Physiographics of Southland 1446 Fluxes and Flows 1451 Why do we see spatial variation in water quality in Southland? How much water is flowing where and when? What is the impact of water allocation under current and future hydrological/climatic conditions? What do the above mean for nutrient transport and attenuation processes? Flow and Nutrient Models. Methodology for selecting the most appropriate modelling and data methods. 2018/19 CLUES nutrient model completed for the Mataura Freshwater Management Unit by December Report containing a methodology for selecting modelling and data methods by March Coupled surface water and groundwater model completed for the Oreti Freshwater Management Unit by June /20 CLUES nutrient model completed for the Oreti Freshwater Management Unit by December Coupled surface water and groundwater model completed for the Waiau Freshwater Management Unit by June /21 CLUES nutrient model completed for the Waiau Freshwater Management Unit by December This project is no longer required for the LTP. However, information from this project will be used in other aspects of the science programme. Continuation of a component of the Southland Science Programme, at a lower level of activity to inform the People, Water and Land engagement process. Originally the flow and nutrient models for each Freshwater Management Unit were to be completed by mid However, this timing was extended to ensure integration with other work programmes and accommodate the Physiographics of Southland project. There is also a funding commitment to GNS around the Smart Aquifer Management programme which looks at modelling and data requirements generally (not just in the groundwater space), which extends into the 2018/19 year. This will assist with modelling as we move into the People, Water and Land engagement process. Land Use Inputs 1452 What land use activities occur where in Southland and how has this varied over time? What contaminant losses are associated with the above distribution? What contaminants are lost where and when and through which pathways? What are the nutrient and sediment loads in Southland s waterways? What mitigations are effective where and when? Maintenance of land use map and loss/load estimates derived during the Southland Science Programme. An understanding of pollutant sources, flow pathways and timing of pollutant losses. Coordinated multi-agency approach to mitigation effectiveness and farm system monitoring in Southland developed. 2018/19 Update of land use map and loss and load estimates. Development of a combined, multi-agency mitigation effectiveness and farm system monitoring programme for Southland by June Targeted flow dynamics and sediment investigations in response to community questions. 2019/20 Update of land use map and loss and load estimates. Implementation of a combined, multi-agency mitigation effectiveness and farm system programme for Southland. Targeted flow dynamics and sediment investigations in response to community questions. Continuation of a component of the Southland Science Programme, at a similar level of activity to inform the People, Water and Land engagement process. Maintenance of the work completed during the LTP is considered essential and it is proposed to extend the understanding the physiographics provides through flow dynamics and sediment investigations. A key gap identified in the LTP by stakeholders and other areas of the organisation was an understanding of the mitigations appropriate for Southland and their effectiveness. Similarly, there is a lack of knowledge around mitigation uptake and farm system change over time. 2020/21 Update of land use map and loss and load estimates. Implementation of a combined, multi-agency mitigation effectiveness and farm system Page 1 of 5

179 Project Research Questions Deliverables Milestones Comments (including risks and assumptions) programme for Southland. Targeted flow dynamics and sediment investigations in response to community questions. Ecosystem Response: Freshwater Ecosystem Response: Lakes Freshwater Accounting 1443 Science Strategy and Coordination 1411 How do we best implement the freshwater accounting requirements of the National Policy Statement for Freshwater Management? What are the science and monitoring needs for the region and how do the various agencies involved collectively best service these needs? How do the various components of the science programme fit together to address community and stakeholder questions? What is the uncertainty involved? How do we incorporate other forms of knowledge? How do we maximise the usefulness and quality of citizen science and ensure it is incorporated into the Council s knowledge base? How do we use all of the above and the interventions put in place by other parts of the Council/agencies to achieve behaviour change and desired outcomes? State of the Environment Programmes Freshwater Ecosystem Health 1350 What are the state and trends of freshwater ecosystem health? How does periphyton cover at key monitoring locations fit within the National Objectives Framework? What are the important explanatory variables for determining fish community composition? What are the drivers of changes in macroinvertebrate community composition? Development and maintenance of freshwater accounts for each freshwater management unit. Implementation of the Southland Science and Monitoring Strategy, in conjunction with other agencies. A review of the SOE monitoring networks to ensure they are meeting the needs of end users. Packaging of information to inform the People, Land and Water programme. Creation of a space to share and combine other forms of knowledge, such as Matauranga Maori, into the region s knowledge base. Development of an approach to citizen science. Development of an approach to social outcome research and monitoring. Database of ecosystem health results maintained. Reporting of results as required. Database of monthly periphyton results maintained. Coordinated multi-agency approach to fish monitoring in Southland developed. Report on macroinvertebrate drivers of change. In development In development see deliverables for high level overview. Annual Annual monitoring of aquatic macroinvertebrates, fish species diversity and abundance at approximately 80 sites (fish species diversity at a subset of 20 sites). Periphyton monitored monthly at up to 30 sites. 2018/19 Development of a combined, multi-agency fish programme for Southland by June Report on macroinvertebrate drivers of change by June This project is no longer required for the LTP. However, information from this project will be used in other aspects of the science programme. This project is no longer required for the LTP. However, information from this project will be used in other aspects of the science programme. This is the most significantly expanded area of the science programme, reflecting the direction of travel needed to support the People, Land and Water programme. Programme increased in size to reflect NPSFM requirements. Surface Water Resource How much surface water is available for allocation? Concurrent gauging programme. Instream habitat investigations for 2019/20 and 2020/21 Dependent on the outcomes of the above. Annual Continuous water level monitoring at 5 sites. Includes Net Rate of Energy work for 2018/19 commenced during current LTP and needed to implement the proposed Southland Water Page 2 of 5

180 Project Research Questions Deliverables Milestones Comments (including risks and assumptions) 1365 What are the cumulative effects of effective catchment allocation. 12 biennially roving flow sites determining and Land Plan. allocation (consented and actual use) on Surface water allocation database catchment hydrological response characteristics. rivers and instream ecology? maintained. Alpine precipitation monitoring at 5 sites. Public Health 1448 How safe is it to swim and play in our rivers and streams and coastal environments monitored? How safe is it to gather shellfish at the areas monitored? How do we predict and communicate public health risks? Database of recreational monitoring results maintained. Predictive models developed. 2018/19 Instream habitat survey (Net Rate of Energy Intake) completed for the Aparima River. Annual Samples of water from 9 freshwater and 13 coastal bathing areas collected monthly during the summer (Dec-Mar) and analysed for microbiological indicators at an accredited laboratory. Samples of water from 8 shellfish gathering areas collected monthly and analysed for microbiological indicators at an accredited laboratory. Programme increased in size to reflect NPSFM requirements. Coastal Advice and Monitoring 1375 Ecosystem Response: Estuaries 1454 Lakes and Lagoons Wetlands Monitoring 1390 What are the state and trends of coastal ecosystem health? Where is coastal erosion occurring and in what quantities? Implications? What is the state and trend of Southland s estuary quality? What is the appropriate load (sediment and nitrogen) necessary to maintain ecological health of estuaries in Southland? How do we remedy degraded estuaries? What is the state and trend of Southland s lake and lagoon water quality? Database of lake water quality results maintained. Database of lake phytoplankton community composition developed and maintained. Reporting of results as required. Support for the Coastal Plan review. Development of a combined, multi-agency coastal programme for Southland by June New FTE included in response to request by Policy and to re-establish a coastal monitoring programme. Development of a combined, multi-agency estuary programme for Southland by June Continuation of a component of the Southland Science Programme, at a similar level of activity to inform the People, Water and Land Ironman components of Ecological Condition Gradient to be completed if and when required following community/stakeholder conversations. engagement process. Remediation studies for New River and Jacobs River Estuaries to be completed if and when required following community/stakeholder conversations. There is a high risk area for the organisation given the level of political attention at present. Annual Programme increased in size to reflect NPSFM requirements. Mountain lake water quality samples collected at 5 sites and analysed for physico-chemical and microbiological indicators at an accredited laboratory. Mountain lakes phytoplankton samples collected and analysed for species compositions, as well as presence of Lindavia intermedia (Lake Snow). Lowland lake water quality samples collected monthly at 6 sites and analysed for physico-chemical and microbiological indicators at an accredited laboratory. Lagoon monitoring Waiau and Waituna. River Water Quality Monitoring 1395 What is the state and trends of Southland river water quality? Database of monthly river water quality results maintained. Reporting of results as required. Annual River water quality samples collected monthly at 60 sites and analysed for physico-chemical and microbiological indicators at an accredited laboratory. Page 3 of 5

181 Project Research Questions Deliverables Milestones Comments (including risks and assumptions) Continuous River What are the nutrient and sediment Database of continuous river water Annual Water Quality loads in Southland s waterways? quality results maintained. Turbidity and nitrate monitored continuously at key Monitoring Reporting of results as required. nodal sites High Flow Water What are the relationships between Database of high river flow water Annual Quality Monitoring contaminant concentrations and flow? quality results maintained. High river flow water quality monitoring undertaken 1447 What are the nutrient and sediment Reporting of results as required. at key nodal sites following high flow events. loads in Southland s waterways? Water Resource How much groundwater is available for Continuous groundwater level Annual Investigations 1405 allocation? record from automated monitoring network. Quarterly groundwater level readings at 96 sites undertaken. Quarterly groundwater level readings for manual monitoring network. Groundwater levels at 20 automated sites monitored continuously. Reporting of results as required. Groundwater allocation database maintained. Groundwater accounting strategy integrated with the surface water accounting strategy. Integration of the cumulative effect of groundwater abstractions on surface water flows and instream values. 2018/19 State and trend report? Soil Moisture and Drainage and Soil Quality Networks 1410 Regional Biodiversity Monitoring What soil conditions (moisture and temperature) are optimal for applying effluent and fertiliser so as to minimise contaminant losses? What is the relationship between soil moisture levels and flood flows? What is the state and trend of Southland soil quality? What is the state and trend of Southland s indigenous biodiversity? Continuous soil moisture and temperature record maintained from automated monitoring network. Soils sampled for physical, chemical, and biological health Database of annual biodiversity results maintained. Reporting of results as required. Annual Annual Soil moisture and temperature at 19 automated sites monitored continuously. Soil quality monitoring of 20 sites per year undertaken on a range of soil orders and land uses. Biodiversity monitoring is undertaken at around 20 sites per year using the 18 national biodiversity indicators. Soil quality monitoring was put on hold for the LTP but has been re-established at a small scale as we are lagging behind other councils and this is potentially a key issue for the region. New programme. This project is a component of the Southland Biodiversity Programme led by Biodiversity. This monitoring will help give effect to Environment Southland s commitments under the New Zealand Biodiversity Action Plan In particular, the following targets from the Action Plan are relevant: New Zealand will continue to monitor and report on biodiversity state and trends at national and regional scales (MfE, DOC, regional councils) By 2020, the collection, collation, publication and reuse of biodiversity data across local and central government agencies will be improved (MfE, DOC, LINZ, regional councils) Page 4 of 5

182 Grey is a deleted programme Blue is a new programme Orange is a decreased programme Yellow is an expanded programme Green is a programme operating at a similar level to previous LTP Page 5 of 5

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186 Proposed annual charges Invoice Breakdown for Proposed new charges and effects on current consents for Meridian Energy Ltd : At time of running there were 26 current consents (under 5 debtor numbers) Proposed Annual Charge Proposed (total dollar value) Consent Administration charge 5,200 4,765 ( covers all types) Compliance Monitoring charge for management and advisement of river levels.. Locality Charges Fiordland 3 Unknown 186 yearly inspections Coastal Occupation Charges 1, Annual Science and Monitoring charges: Water Research/management 15,308 13,928 maximum charge New - Coastal permit 2,034 0 New Discharge Air New Discharge Land New Discharge Water 4,000 0 New Special large Water User 147, Rate (on maximum daily volume covering surface water take for 1 consent) $176, $20,891 Fees GST Inclusive

187 Submitter No 1 (F&C) Barry Taylor

188

189 Submitter No 8 (F&C) NZ Farm Forestry Association (Southland Branch)

190 AD Wilson Name - Name: Organisation - Organisation (if representing): Organisation role - Organisation role: Postal address - Postal address: Postcode - Postcode: Phone - Phone: - Hearing - Do you want to speak about your submission/feedback with the council? Your feedback - Please let us know what you think about the proposed fees and charges. File upload - Use this section if you want to attach supporting documentation. AD Wilson NZFFA Southland branch Liaison officer 165 taiepa road, RD9, Invercargill swandaw@slingshot.co.nz Please see attached file. I would be interested in presenting submission with others having similar interests

191 Submission on Environment Southland Long Term Plan and Fees and Charges for New Zealand Farm Forestry Association Southland Branch, AD Wilson Liaison Officer We thank Environment Southland for the opportunity to contribute to consultative processes both here on the Long Term Plan and also other policy as and when it occurs. Although it is not a view shared by many in Southland, forestry is a valuable contributor to our local and national economy. Southland timber is a sought after product and we are fortunate to have a number of companies that have invested heavily in the industry. In order that they succeed, and the wider community benefit from foresters investments and efforts, it is essential Local Government has supportive policy. The new government has initiated the 1 billion trees program. If Southland is to enjoy the benefits of increased forestry activity, Council must be prepared and policy must support and give effect to central government policy. It is important not to stifle or discourage desirable activity. Trees and forestry have a good fit within the ES goals and policies. We hope that partnerships and policies will work together to establish more forests, more riparian protection and more amenity planting. Policies should be supportive and reflect a desire to encourage beneficial activity. Farmers and foresters are the few who are prepared to spend their own money to improve habitat and many other aspects of our environment not only for the benefit of themselves but for everyone. I have included some information below from the 2017 NZIER report on plantation forestry statistics. The contribution of forestry and logging is greater than the sheep meat and wool sector by 20%, and greater than the beef sector by about 45% in GDP terms. This report also points out the Environmental values that forestry also brings. These are mostly overlooked, but include carbon sequestration, soil protection, moderating floodwaters, provision of recreation and tourism opportunities, biodiversity habitat and more. Forests support both rural and urban economies. Included here is a link to the NZIER Plantation Forestry statistics report March

192 These images are 2 screen shots from the Key points, pages i & iv The Environmental benefits outlined are based on a north Island example, although a similar outcome would be expected for any part of the nation. We see forestry as a major contributor to the beneficial side of the environmental ledger with a significant part to play in ES s Big 3 Water, Air Biodiversity, and also land - Our water, our land, our future.

193 Fees and Charges for It is with some trepidation we see the proposed fee structure relating to forestry activity. As indicated in the above examples it is well known that forests make significant contributions to biodiversity and also mitigating the effects of other land uses. It would be particularly damaging to have overzealous application of compliance and fees when for the many years a forester is mitigating the damaging effects of others only to be punished by paying for the privilege. We acknowledge the NES has been developed with a view to improving some potentially damaging aspects of forestry, mainly roading and harvesting, but our belief is that in Southland we have very few instances of poor environmental practice. This is possibly a result of our less challenging landscape, with very little land classified as red or yellow in the erosion susceptibility grading s. Our forests are mostly on green zoned land and we have a majority of highly practiced operators who are striving for excellent environmental compliance. The improved environmental practice I suspect stems from the good work done by the ES land sustainability team. In the fees and charges document relating to harvesting, the inspections indicated (2019/20) of preharvest, harvest and post-harvest indicate a cost of $5312. There is no indication of whether these inspections are always required, how often they are required or if there is a reduced fee for lesser inspections. It would be understandable if these inspections resulted from bad practice but to inflict high costs onto the forestry sector when they are actually, for the most part benefiting the greater community would be most unpalatable. It would be preferable to have these fees reduced or minimised where possible and some of the cost met by the wider community. Remember that in hot weather the forests are providing shade to waterways. In dry conditions they are filtering dust. In all weathers they are sequestering carbon. In storms they are holding the soil and mitigating flood events. As they grow toward maturity they host massive biodiversity values. In most cases after harvest they are replanted. The principle of those who benefit from the services of the resource consent activity pay a fair and reasonable share of the costs of these services certainly has merit but in the case of forestry it is the foresters paying the cost of protecting our resource. In my experience I have found the southern farmers and foresters who are investing their time and money in their local environment have no desire to degrade or damage it during harvest or any other time. Because of this I believe it would be more appropriate for a fee schedule to be available but used only on an as and when required basis. The example of $5312 indicated above is based on the assumption of 3 activity related inspections. We submit that the harvest related activity inspections are at the discretion of ES officers We submit that the harvest related activity inspection fees be reduced to reflect the beneficial contribution of forestry to the environment. We submit that no more than 3 harvest related activity inspection fees are applied unless a compliance action is invoked.

194 We wish to accept council s invitation to speak to our submission. Alistair Wilson Liaison officer SFFA

195 Submitter No 49 Sport Southland

196 Nathan Burdon Name - Name: Organisation - Organisation (if representing): Organisation role - Organisation role: Postal address - Postal address: Postcode - Postcode: Phone - Phone: - Hearing - When Councillors hear submissions on the Long-term Plan consultation document, do you want to present your views in person? Other feedback question - Feedback on other matters: File upload - Use this section if you want to attach supporting documentation. Nathan Burdon Sport Southland Lead organisation for the sport and active recreation sector in Southland. ILT Stadium Southland nathan.burdon@sportsouthland.co.nz Yes Please see attached document

197 As the regional sports trust for Southland, Sport Southland believes that sport and active recreation plays a key role in enriching lives and building thriving communities. Sport NZ s recent Value of Sport report confirms our belief by providing evidence that sport and recreation helps to create healthier, happier people, better connected communities and a stronger New Zealand. The benefits range from individual mental and physical wellbeing through to the economic impact provided by more productive citizens and the effect on tourism from events. Sport Southland s vision of every Southlander being active every day is much wider than just organised sport. Our approaches include: Being community led: working with communities to identify opportunities and supporting them to find their own solutions Insights driven: making decisions based on the best evidence available, with a combination of data, local knowledge and the voice of the participant Physical literacy: understanding the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge and understanding required by participants that allows them to value and take responsibility for engaging in physical activity and sport for life Sport Southland, supported by Sport NZ, is leading the development and implementation of a Regional Strategy for Sport and Active Recreation for Southland. We believe an aligned approach, with an agreed set of principles and with an emphasis on evidence-based decision making, to sport and active recreation across local and regional authorities, community funders and other key stakeholders will ensure resources are applied in the most beneficial way for our community. What we would like from Environment Southland: Sport NZ and Sport Southland are commissioning an independent review of the 2003 Southland Leisure Strategy with a focus on the approach, the successes achieved, what didn t work and why. Through the Long Term Plan submission process we have been seeking engagement from the territorial authorities with this review, by having them agree to signing off on the terms of reference for the review. While Environment Southland was not directly involved in the 2003 Leisure Strategy, we believe that the Regional Authority has a significant role to play in active recreation, particularly around around the issue of water and initiatives like the Invercargill to Bluff cycle/walking trail. We would like Environment Southland to also sign off on the terms of reference for the review, with a view to being involved in the process towards a regional strategy.

198 Invercargill to Bluff cycle/walking trail: Sport Southland would like to congratulate Environment Southland on the progress made to date on the Invercargill to Bluff cycle/walking trail, despite the challenges involved. Through our involvement in the Southland Cycling Strategy and insights gathered from the cycling and wider community, it is evident that there is a strong call for this trail to be completed to a high standard and to be completed as expeditiously as is practicable. This is a view shared by Cycling Southland. We also believe the trail will provide a range of benefits, both to our local community and as a visitor attraction and we believe it would be timely to begin a conversation about the best ways to activate the trail, and ensure that its usage is maximised. This would require a collaborative approach potentially involving ES, ICC, iwi, community funders, cycling and walking groups, tourism and hospitality, arts etc. We know that the more people come to use the environment, the more they will consider and respect it. How good would it be to incorporate elements of sculpture along the trail, interpretation panels or a significant event like an off-road marathon?

199 Submitter No 13 Southland Heritage Railway Regional Group

200 Submission - Environment Southland Regional Council Long-term Plan: s0ilrui -(,, { Submlfter Detalls: 1 5 MAY 2018 Names: Mark Burton David Dudfield Jen Jensen Bruce Maher Mick Hesselin Joan Scarlet Organlsatlon: PostalAddress: Southland Heritage Railway Regional Group Emall: irhillaryst@gmail.com Date r5[6j \$. \\ C/- P,O. Box 420,lnvercargill, \ l! r\ ', \ Slgnature r. :.:.. "r,\s.f...);..r...\ On Behalf of the Southland Herltage Rallway Reglonal Group '! * We wlsh to speak to the Mayor and Counclllore about thls submlselon Regional Heritage Rallway Museum/Park - New Development: The Southland Heritage Railway Regional Groups new development would heighten awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the railway's impact on the Southland regional. The Museum will collect, preserve, and interpret the railroad heritage of lnvercargill and of the Southland region for present and future generations. The railway museum/park will transport us back to a time when the railway was lnvercargill's link to the outer parts of the Southland region and further north, bringing the daily necessities and a means of connecting residents and goods to other destinations. lt will demonstrate how the growth of the railways directly affected the development and shaping of the Southland region as we know it today. More than just locomotives, passenger and freight wagons, the story of railways in the Southland region is a story of people in the past - visionaries who could see over the horizon into the future, who undertook the massive projects that formed the backbone for Southland's regional transportation networks - skilled railway staff who braved difficult working conditions to move the provinces goods and people safely, and the colourful men and women who make the Southland railway story so interesting. ldeally the existing former railway station in lnvercargill is where the museum/park would be developed and would be purchased from the present owners YMCA, The Southland Heritage Railway Regional Group will be working alongside KiwiRail on the restoration and shared use of the railway platform.

201 lnvercargill has the population base, infrastructure and engineering resources and potential pool of both paid and voluntary people to see this proposal through, It is intended that display items will be either gifted or on loan basis, under an agreement with the Southland Museum & Art Gallery, Mark Burton and other railway collectors/collections and organisations such as Ocean Beach Railway and the Dunedin City Railways. The Southland Heritage Hailway Regional Group has a significant number of historic railway artefacts already offered for its inventory at a very early stage. The goal, where necessary, is to have each piece restored and displayed as close to its original condition as is reasonable. A comprehensive range of tangible elements have been identified to capture a wide range of audience groups which will include:- Southland April 1861 out his vision for the foundations of a railway network in NZ ) The display areas will he enhanced by virtual reality and other methods of technical inter-acting activities that will highlight the history and purpose of rail in the Southland region, also in particular the inner workings of locomotives and railway operations etc. The Railway Regional museum/park development would be part of the catalyst for the downtown's economic revitalisation, as stated in the Southland Regional Development Strategy, and it is more important today than ever, now that the third entertainment venue has recently and sadly closed in lnvercargill. Once this new development is complete the railway museum/park could house many of the 900 plus railway artefacts currently held at the Southland Museum and Art Gallery. Also the restored former railway station would be also ideally suited to incorporate the lnformation Centre, where buses could be accommodated, passengers disembark under cover, directly into the CBD, Celebrating heritage, understanding and appreciating the railways important impact its had on Southland's regional life, is the primary baseline for a railway museum/park development. The interactive exhibits will utilise an extensive collection to show a range of subjects, - from explanations of how locomotive operate and work, to scale demonstrations of how the railways defined the shape of allthe regionals localities, and of where we live and work. The Southland Heritage Railway Regional Group seeks to be relevant to today's audiences and twenty-first century issues and will present tl're historic and newest advances in local railway usage in Southland. Visitors willgain insights into the social, political, economic, architectural, geographic and cultural histories related to the railways and their effect on the province. Planning displays around the early timber milling, gold mining and other earlier business adventures, right up until the main use of railtoday for the Port of Southland and Coal mining actives. The working of steam trains, will be the main thrust of the railway museum/park, which will also include the

202 lr,','t,,,rcargilltram system There is a mountain of railway arlefacts currently hidden awav from public \lii:l vi/. Orrr efforts, willbe the ftrrmer lnvercargill Railrvay Station, to be preserved and restored. lt will pr:rrrnanently house the t"ailway story on railfrom the Southland region, and to fulfilthe dream of a fully 1i.r'rotioning museum/park for the Southland t-leritage Railway Regional Group. -['lrr:l museum/park coultl incorporate the 'Visitor Centre' that will showcase and provide information ertrr;ut the many Southland/lnvercargill attractions, merchants, restaurants, and civic groups. a 1'lrrp $eu161and Heritage Railway Regional Grcrup calls for an enhanced community outreach effort.!\iil are seeking the guicance, counsel, and support of the local cornmunity and civic leaders, LrL.r,siness professionals, as wellas Town and County, leadership. Our planning process has revealed th:rt the museum group enjoys widespread community support. The former railway station property nr,,bds to be acquired. There is parking provlcled at the existing site, also nearby is the rnunicipal p;,rrl<ing lot in Leven Stre,et, We willsimply be restoring/adapting the former railway landmark in a way thr,tt will provide an important educational, historical, and family{riendly resource to lnvercargill and the re;:;icn. The restoration prnocess itself will provrde an exciting city focal point, and a sense of pride and or.r::96r;1t1",ment, ln the end, we will have another unique 'Transport' entertainment treasure, The railway museum/pilrk once established will be an additional attraction to the already elrtablished E Hayes ft4otorworks Collection, Bill Richardson Transport World, and the Classic lr,4otorcycle Mecca dis6rlays in lnvercargill, along with the many static railway displays throughout th* region of Southlanc This development will be utilising a partly unused existing structure as a tc r r rist/visitor attraction. Thank you all for your titne and attention. Now that you've learned about our exciting project, we hr:pe that you will consirji:r supporting our efforts!

203 Submitter No 27 (LTP) Submitter No 5 (F&C) Southwood Export Ltd Southland Plantation Forestry Co & Kodansha Treefarm NZ Ltd

204 AAISLEcAL 0ne fim Full service Delivered exceptionolly Partners: Alan Harper Fraser McKenzie Norman Elder Andrew Hitchcock Anne Henderson David Cibson Toni Green Phil Wilson Damien Pine Chris Peddie Aaron Drake Kasey Templer Rachel Lindsay 6rant Wilkin Cameron Murphy Doreen Evans Chris Menzies Ref: Rachel Lindsay Direct Line: May 2018 Environment Southland Cnr North Road and Price Street INVERCARGILL By delivery ENVI RO N M ENT SO UTH LAN D LO NG.T E RM PLAN CONSU LTATIO N Please find enclosed submission on behalf of Southwood Export Limited, Southland Plantation Forest Co and Kodansha Treefarm New Zealand Limited. fi Yours faithfully AWS Lega! per a rufl"r Rachel Lindsay lnvercargill Office rl:jlm lnvercargill 151 Spey Street P0 Box 1207 lnvercargill 9840, NZ P: Ft Queenstown Level 2, The Forge Athol Street, P0 Box 1322 Queenstown 9148, NZ Pt F: fE Alexandra 77 Centennial Avenue P0 Box 268 fllexandra 9320, NZ P: O026 F: Winton 2704 [reat North Road Winton q720 NZ P: Cromwell Unit 8, Cromtrade, 2 MrNultv Road, Cromwell 9110, NZ 'ifffi$lr1tl-1!3-s-vr Te Anau 112 Town Centre Te Anau 9500 NZ Gore 11 Bowler Avenue Core 920 NZ admin@awslegal.com

205 ) Ptease le[[ us your views By 4.30pm, Wednesday 16 May 2018 We are keen to get your views. lf you need more space please continue on a separate piece of paper and attach. ) Environment Southland Long-term Plan consultation Do you support urban stop bank upgrade construction works on the Waihopai River, Kingswell and Otepuni Streams starting after 2028? T creferred Option 1! Optlon z Fees and charges consu [tation Do you support an increase of our water improvement activity through the introduction of a new water improvement rate in ? T ereferred optlon 1 f option z \it-z d Feedback on another matter/s Se-a av-lt r* A t^e Environment Southtand's fees and charges have been reviewed. There are some new ones, and existing ones have increased. A statement of proposat: Fees ond Chorges for is now out for consultation and avaitable online at govt.n z or from Envi ron ment Southland BB 45. Submissions close 4.30pm, Wednesday, 16 May ) Other consu [tation Revenue and Financing Policy Review Do you agree with retaining the dairy differentiai rate for a further year to contribute to the water improvement activity? fi,"t",,"aoption 1 Option 2 R Lve-noQ ln d rw,dt-ra IS Vle-ne IrLbrnq c.na Cousr^q covt J b e,^w Ll ae c-osls'trvzq v*-poia S^.-tx,i ia crts, :-pflyr tj +4-a J"lzr-rs't'#",.pran consurtarionDocument o[ rn sl awl o ^e. L, n^, ted o,, kil r s ct.e sh o;. 31

206 ) Seeking your feedback What do you think of our approach to improving water quality through the People, Water and Land programme? What do you think of our approach to the Whakamana te Waituna programme? Feedback on another matter/s When councitlors hear submissions on this co want to present you r views in person? W* No Pleose note: Upon request, we ore legolly required to make all written or electronrc submrssrbns ovoiloble to the public, including the nome ond oddress of the submitter, subject to the provisions ofthe Locol Government Officiol lnformotion ond Meetings Act lf you consider there ore compelling reosons why your contoct detoils ond/or submission should be kept confidentiol, you should contoct the council's Strotegy ond Corporote Plonning Monoger. Contact detaits Name Organisation (if representing): Organisation role: Postal address: Signatu re: PO 6 ox t2o?. lnverco ( ai I U c Postcode: Q?tr- o N phnn"' 03 2ll l3f{t. Date: (w Eresl C^ U,"-,h3-d Wecan receiveyourfeedbackin a numberof ways tri 6 Mait Freepost Authority No Environment Southland Private Bag 90I16 Invercargill 9840 Delivery Environment Southtand Cnr North Rd & Price St lnverca rgi[[ (A/H please post at the door) Online EmaiI consu ltation@es.govt. nz ffi

207 Attachment Environment Southland L Plan consultation Do you support an increase of our water improvement activity through the introduction of a new water improvement rate in 2019/20? I Preferred option 1 I Option 2 Southwood opposes option 1 (to investigate options for funding the increase in water improvement projects by using methods that apply costs based on who uses and benefits from water use), fo the extent that it incorporates removal of the dairy differential rate. It is not clear why options for funding the increase in water improvement projects must necessarily incorporate removal of the dairy differential rate, or why the only alternative option identified by Council is to maintain the current level of water improvement activity. SWEL supports Council taking action to improve water quality Council should investigate options for funding the increase in water improvement projects that include the use of targeted/differential rates. SWEL also supports the submissions of Ernslaw One Limited on this question RAL V1

208 Nvs LEGAL ane firm Full servirc Delivered exrcptionolly Partners: Alan Harper Fraser McKenzie Norman Elder Andrew Hitchcock Anne Henderson David Gibson Toni 6reen Phil Wilson Damien Pine Chris Peddie Aaron Drake Kasey Templer Rachel Lindsay 6rant Wilkin Cameron Murphy Doreen Evans Chris Menzies Ref: Rachel Lindsay Direct Line: rachel.lindsay@awslegal.com \X,:t;itl^,llM[[rlT SOU]HI.AND 1 0 MAY May 2018 Environment Southland Cnr North Road and Price Street INVERCARGILL By delivery STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL. FEES AND CHARGES Please find enclosed submission on behalf of Southwood Export Limited, Southland Plantation Forest Co and Kodansha Treefarm New Zealand Limited in relation to the above. Yours faithfully fr AWS Legal per { {a,((r Rachel Lindsay lnvercargill Office rl:jlm lnvdrcargill 151 Spey Street P0 Box 1207 lnvercarqrll 9840, NZ P: F: Queenstown Level 2, The Forqe Athol Street, P0 Box 1322 Queenstown 9348, NZ P: +64 I F: Alexandra Z Centennial Avenue P0 Box 268 Alexandra 9320, NZ P: +64 I F; Winton reat North Road Winton 9720 NZ P: Cromwell Unit 8, Cromtrade, 2 MrNulty Road, Cromwell 9310, NZ R;qt'-ddfot-zt$rz-vr Te Anau 112 Town [entre Te Anau 9600 NZ Gore 1l Bowler Avenue Core 9710 NZ admin@awslegal.com

209 SUBMISSION ON SOUTHLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL STATEMENT OF PROPOSAL: FEES AND CHARGES FOR To: Submission on: Name: Address: Planning Department Southland Regional Council Private Bag INVERCARGILL 9840 Southland Regional Counci! Statement of Proposal: Fees and Charges for 20' Southwood Export Limited, Southland Plantation Company of New Zealand Limited, Kodansha Treefarm New Zealand Limited C/- AWS Legal Limited PO Box 1207 INVERCARGILL This is a submission on behalf of SouthWood Export Limited, Southland Plantation Gompany of New Zealand Limited, Kodansha Treefarm New Zealand Limited ("Southwood") with respect to the Southland Regional Council Statement of Proposal: Fees and Charges for ("Statement of Proposal"). 2. Southwood could not gain an advantage in trade competition through this submission. 3. Consultation on the Statement of Proposal a. Southwood objects to the proposed charges for monitoring permitted activities under the National Environmental Standard for Plantation Forestry (NESPF). b. Southwood accepts Council is permitted by Reg 106 Resource Management (National Environmental Standards for Plantation Forestry) Regulations 2017 ("Regulations) and the associated legislative and regulatory framework to charge for the monitoring of specified permitted activities in the NESPF, and that monitoring may help to ensure the permitted activity framework under the NESPF provides good outcomes. c. However, pursuant to Reg 106 Council is only able to fix charges for monitoring of specified permitted activities i.e. i. regulation 24 (earthworks): ii. regulation 37 (river crossings): iii. regulation 51 (forestry quarrying): iv. regulation 63(2) (harvesting). d. The charges proposed under the Statement of Proposal appear to relate to functions broader than those specified permitted activities. ln RAL l 0-V'1

210 that case, the charges are ultra vires the Regulations and the RIVIA. ln particular: i. lt is not clear that the activities, especially the pre-harvest inspection, for which Council seeks to impose a charge under the heading "pre-harvest activity" in the Statement of Proposal, fall within the permitted activities for which Council is permitted to fix charges under Reg 106 i.e. earthworks, river crossings, forestry quarrying and harvesting ii. The proposed charges for pre-harvest site inspection are stated as including charges for dealing with any earthworks or quarrying notifications under Reg 25 and 52. However, the submission of information (to notify of an intended activity) is an administrative function, not requiring council (external) authorisation. It is not reasonable for councils to charge for receiving this type of information. ln this situation, Council's role in relation to management plans is limited to ensuring that they are complete, according to criteria specified in NESPF. e. Reg 106 empowers Council to fix charges for the monitoring of permitted activity conditions. It does not provide a power to adopt a monitoring regime for permitted activities. Southwood submits that, prior to fixing charges for monitoring, Council should design a clear monitoring plan with regionally specific elements and with input from foresters, and ideally, having regard to the Regional Sector Strategic Compliance Framework The monitoring plan should also reflect the potential risks of the activity, the compliance history of the operator and their understanding of the permitted activity requirements. f. Any charges for monitoring that are fixed under Reg 106 should then reflect the provisions of such a plan. g. To the extent the Statement of Proposal does purport to set forth Council's monitoring plan, Southwood submits: i. lnsufficient regard has been had to regionally specific risk factors of the relevant activities; ii. lt is inappropriate and unnecessary for Council to require preharvest and postharvest inspection and monthly inspections for each moderate sized forest regardless of the compliance history of the relevant operator; and iii. lt is inappropriate and unnecessary for Council to require a pre-harvest and post-harvest instream macroinvertebrate survey by a biologist again without regard to the compliance history of the forester. h. Finally, Southwood submits that in fixing the amount of the charges for monitoring, Council has not properly taken into account the revenue already received from foresters through general rates for the monitoring of their activities. 4. To avoid repetition and overlap, Southwood formally requests that Council note that we concur with and supports the five (5) submissions made by Rayonier Matariki Forests Ltd on this matter. RAL 't 0-V1

211 5. lf Council is to hear submissions on the Statement of Proposal then Southwood requests to be heard in support of its submission. 6. lf others make a similar submission, Southwood would be prepared to consider presenting a joint case with them at any hearing. Signed:... On behalf of Limited Dated at tnvercargillthis 16h day of May 2018 Address for Service Southwood Export Limited C/- AWS Legal PO Box 1207 ]NVERCARGILL 9840 Contact Details: Attention: Rachel Lindsay Telephone: (03) rachel.lindsav@awsleqal.com RAL s5-1 o-vl

212 Submitter No 20 Otatara Landcare Group

213 , Otatara Landcare GrouP 173 Grant Road Otatara 9RD lnvercargill J>- OTATAIAA LANDCARE CROUP 16 MAY Ztii,r Environmental Southland Private Bag lnvercargill May 2018 Otatara Landcare Group submission to Environment Southland Long Term plan submission Thank you for the opportunity the opportunity to submit to the Environment Southland (ES) Long Term plan. The otatara Landcare Group (olg) is an active community group in the otatara area' our goal is to protect, enhance and promote our special environment. our focus is on: o Bushy Point Conservation Area - where we undertake restoration planting' pest control' weed control, walking track development and maintenance, education and community participation. o Otatara Pestbusters - the Otatara Pesters supports community members with pest control on their own property. Also the otatara Pestbusters (through the olg) undertakes pest control on 5 ICC reserves (Otatara Scenic Reserve, John Street Reserve' Raeburn Street Reserve, Matua Street Reserve, Bowman's Bush and the Parnellsanctuary)and the DOC Otatara South Reserve' o Advice to locals on the local bush and other natural values and how to manage and enhance these features o Advice to locals on recreational opportunities and historical features of the otatara area' oadvocacyregardingnaturalandhistoricalfeaturesoftheotataraarea. Some scene setting BiodiversitY ln the previous long term plan Biodiversity was identified as one of the big three issues for southland. However, in the introduction to the ES Long Term Plan consultation document ES council chairmannicolhorrellstatesthateshasidentifiedwaterqualityandquantityasthesignificant issues for ES. While we agree that these are significant issues' however they are not the only significant issues facing Environment southrand. we are concerned that Biodiversity continues to be the,,poor cousin". we would like to see Biodiversity reinstated as one of the big three issues for ES' Biodiversity and its continued wellbeing is of huge importance to southland for many reasons' These include: Economics: o lt is much cheaper to maintain existing values that to recreate or restore them' we only need to consider the investment into restore/improve water quality and the costs of weed control when initial work is not undertaken'

214 a Tourism is already one of the most significance contributions to both our local and national economy, and it is steadily increasing. Our natural environment is the major attraction to tourists. Therefore investment in Biodiversity and management of our natural environment should be seen as an investment in our future and our economy. We need to "walk the talk" and show that we are "clean and green" if tourism growth is to continue and to be true to the image we portray. ln southland we have many biodiversity gems including Fiordland National park, Stewart lsland (including Rakiura National Park and Ulva lsland), The Catlins, Bluff Hill, curio Bay, waipapa Point, Mavora Lakes and many others. Ecological Values: Southland is a biologically diverse area with many ecosystems and species of plants and animals. Southland is a national stronghold for some of these species and ecosystems and therefore a key place to manage and maintain them. southland also has some species and ecosystems that are endemic and so only found here - it is up to us in Southland to management and maintain them' Natural Capital (includine Ecosvstem Services): o Ecosystems: Our ecosystems provide many benefits and so also contribute to the economy' These benefits and services include maintaining water quality and quantity - the role of wetlands is critical therefore in the protection and management is hugely important' our natural environments will ameliorate the effects of climate change and the associated more variable/extreme climatic events (including flooding and drought) and coastal protection which will be increasingly important with sea level rise predictions' o soil protection: soils are the "life blood" of farming. Healthy tussocklands in catchment headwaters protect soils and prevent erosion' o pollination: pollinators are important for crops. Pollinators need a diversity of habitats and the appropriate food to survive' o lnsect pest control: Native wasps control many pests however they are dependent upon the appropriate habitats and food to flourish' o Economy: Manuka is needed to maintain the flourishing manuka honey industry' A sense of place: our environment and biodiversity contributes to our landscape and the character of Southland. Therefore it contributes to our sense of place and of what we identify with as southlanders. we southlanders are proud of our region, our landscapes, our forests' tussocklands' lakes, rivers and coast. However biodiversity is under considerable pressure in southland' The extent of our natural ecosystems is decreasing and the condition of these ecosystems is in decline' Many native species are listed as threatened and are continuing to decline in abundance and extent' The threats are manyanddiversebutsomeofthemostsignificantthreatsarecontinuinghabitatlossand degradation, pests animals, weeds, disease and climate change' Key items that the otatara Landcare Group want funded through the ES Long Term Plan Support to environmental Communitv groups: There are many community groups active in conservation and environmental management in southland. These groups have been very successful and have achieved some excellent results. However the funding requirements are ongoing and

215 therefore much effort is diverted from on the ground management into fund raising, reporting and administration. These groups include Landcare Groups, Catchment Groups, Community Pest control groups (including pest and weed busters) and other community groups (including Southland Ecological Restoration Network, Southland CommunityNursery and Forest & Bird). The OLG wish to see: o The existing funding increased' o Funding to be available for the OLG to continue or increase its management efforts at Bushy point Conservation Area, Otatara South Reserve, ICC reserves (5 currently managed and hopeful to increase), Otatara Pestbusters and for other environmental initiatives. o Funding to be available for other conservation and environmental groups' o lncreased technical support to groups. o lncreased monitoring of ecological outcomes ' Environmental Enhancement Fund: This fund has already proved to be highly successful in supporting landowners and has resulted in additional areas under active management and increased protection. The OLG wish to see: o The existing funding increased. o That the funding is applied more strategically and becomes more proactive' HVA survevs: These surveys have an important contribution to the knowledge of Southlands remaining biodiversity. More importantly these reports provide landowners on what biodiversity they have, the specialvalues and the managements requirements. The olg wish to see: o The existing funding maintained or ideally increased' o These surveys actively followed up with landowners to see what support is required and to assist landowners with applications for funding and protection' o This information properly databased and able to be utilised to set regional management and Protection Priorities. m There are some and restoration attention (e'g.sand dunes ecosystems that currently receive very little management egraded (e.g. wetlands and braided river and estuaries) and others that are much reduced and/or d beds). The OLG wish to see: r ES initiate one new management or restoration project per year for the next five years' ES to lead bv ole: ES owns land on both the oreti and Mataura River floodways' These lands have a range of existing values and additional areas could be restored. we believe that the is greater community benefit from managingthesesiteforenvironmentalandconservationpurposesthanfor farming on floodable lands prone to sea level rise effects. The OLG wish to see o The areas that retain ecologicaubiodiversity values to all be retired and covenanted o Access to and through these areas improved. A priority being to establish a walkway from the southern scenic Highway along the lower Titiroa River to Fortrose Estuary' o lncreased environmental management and restoration of these sites' including the progressive retirement and restoration of these lands' The priority being to join the existing natural habitat areas.

216 Funding to increase knowledge of Southland's biodiversitv. its condition and trends: Southland's biodiversity remains inadequately known and appreciated. Therefore it is difficult to prioritise for management and protection. The OLG wish to see: o lncreased survey activity including increased support for HVA surveys and regional biodiversity surveys.. lmproved ecosystem mapping (it is important to know the current and past extent of ecosystems. o lncrease monitoring of the condition and trend of biodiversity in Southland. Wetland conservation: Wetlands are amongst Southlands and New Zealand's most reduced ecosystems. Wetlands in Southland continue to be developed, modified and degraded' Two issues of particular concern are weed invasion and hydrological modification. The OLG wish to see: o lncreased efforts in wetland identification, advocacy and protection. o lncreased funding for wetland management particularly weed control' o All regionally significant wetlands being actively management and monitored' o A scheme to recognise landowners who are actively managing any wetland of national' regional and local importance. o One new Ramsar Wetland of lnternational lmportance site investigated by ES during the next financial year and three new Ramsar sites proposed and investigated during the term of this Plan. River manapement: we have a concern where rated catchment drainage schemes (esp' those overseen and undertaken by ES) impact upon the condition and functioning of natural vegetation/ecosystems including nationally and regionally important wetlands' the most notable examples include Waituna Lagoon Catchment, Castle Downs wetland and Bayswater wetland' The OLG wish to see: o lncreased riparian restoration efforts' o A review of all ES catchment management programmes to assess the environmental and ecological impacts of these and to identify key sites at which to mitigate these effects' o To amend management of catchment drainage schemes to reduce the ecological impacts waituna Lagoon catchment, castle Downs wetland, Bayswater wetland and other regionally important wetlands within 3 years' o lncrease restoration of braided river systems including increased protection of regionally significant braided bird populations (notably black billed gulls, black fronted terns and banded dotterel). ln particular to initiate one ecological restoration programme in one braided river system within the next financial year and to have 3 underway within 10 years' o lncreased ecological linkages along rivers - identification of one river as a mountains to the sea as an ecological corridor within the next financial year and to have 3 underway within 10 years. to national e nvironmentalin a Predator Free N22050, atives : ln particular

217 . Large scale (landscape scale) predator control, including adding to areas adjacent to Battle for the Birds operational areas, (31tg1 o Wilding pine control, o Other weed control, o Disease control, o Billion Trees project - lmportant to see a significant portion in native species and to see conservation and environmental gains. o Other initiatives Biodiversitv staffine: To undertake the increase of biodiversity work that the olg (and others) are promoting we would like to see increased staffing within the biodiversity functional area. lt is great that ES has employed a Biodiversity Co-ordinator, however this position needs greater support' The OLG wish to see an additional Biodiversity staff position in year 1 of the 10 year plan, and to have 3 additional staff with 10 Years. BiosecuritY Biosecurity is of huge importance to our natural environment and to the agricultural sector' and therefore to our economy. The OLG wish to see: o The existing Biosecurity efforts maintained and ideally increased' o lncreased funding and technical support to community groups undertaking pest animal and weed control. o lncreased numbers of community pest control areas'. support for the west Dome wilding Tree Trust and other regional efforts to control wilding pines. osupportincreasedfundingforpriorityenvironment/conservationweeds. o lncreased efforts to eradicate recently arrived weeds and to prevent weeds from arriving in Southland. Note ES should lead this work' o lncreased efforts to control eradication species' Note ES should lead this work' o lncreased funding for wasp control. Note wasps appear to be increasing in southland and will continue to increase through climate change' Water quality WebelievethatWaterqualityisapriorityactionforSouthland.Weareconcernedatthewater quality state in Southland and the declines that have occurred' Therefore we support efforts to improve water quality. we believe it is important to get the southland water and Land plan finalised and operative. we believe that the physiognomic zones approach is important as not all soils behave the same way and have differing contributions to water quality issues' we wish to see catchment Limit setting established for all catchments in southland as soon as possible as this will result in reduced nutrient inputs on farms and consequently in our southland catchments' WesupportcurrentandproposedfutureinitiativesintheWaitunaCatchment,howeverseeaneed for greater action on other catchments as well. we are particularly interested in greater efforts in the oreti River. The Oreti River is the water supply for lnvercargill and so it is important to maintain both water quality and quantity. otatara is located at the mouth of the oreti River and on the

218 northern shore of New River Estuary. The OLG is very concerned about the degraded state of the New River Estuary - it is the most modified and degraded estuary in Southland. The OLG would like to see: o lncreased efforts to improve water quality and quantity in the Oreti River catchment' o lncreased management and restoration efforts in the New River Estuary. o lncreased monitoring of habitat condition, water quality, sedimentation and other environmental parameters in the New River Estuary' o lncreased efforts to identify and appropriately manage all leaky soil zones on all farms' Further we support: o the Whakamana te Waituna programme discussed in the ES Long Term Plan' o Option 1 for the New Water lmprovement Rare to be introd uced 20L9l2O Empowered resilient communities we support increased planning for and adapting to climate change in southland' climate change and associated sea level rise will heavily impact upon Southland (especially coastal and lower catchment areas including otatara). olg also recognise and support the need for flood protection' However we want to recognise the role of natural ecosystems in maintaining environmental resilience' lt is important to retain healthy wetlands, forest and tussock grassland for their role in flood prevention' maintaining water quality and quantity, protecting soils and for other ecosystem services' we also highlight the need to maintain healthy coastal and estuarine vegetation to minimise and effects of coastal erosion and sea level rise. The OLG support Option 1 regarding the Stop bank upgrades proposal (for Waihopai River' Kingswell and OtePunistreams). Protecting Communities we support the need to maintain and upgrade our infrastructure including stop banks' However we would like to point out that the stop banks and other catchment works have had a huge impact on natural ecosystem functioning and condition. Therefore we would like to see restoration initiatives undertaken where appropriate (e.g' Thomson's Bush) Other lncreased walkwavs: Access into natural areas increases the community awareness and appreciation of them. The OLG wish to see:. Completion of the lnvercargill to Bluff walkway' o A walkway from stead street around the New River Estuary stop bank to Bushy Point and Bryson Road o A walkway established from the southern scenic Highway along the lower Titiroa River to Fortrose Estuary. Dairv diffe rate The olg support the retention of the Dairy Differential rate. Dairying and the effects including impacts on water associatedincreaseinlandintensificationhashadecological quality and biodiversity. lt is appropriate that a fair share of the increased costs associated with the

219 restoring water quatity and biodiversity should be met by the dairy industry. lndeed we support the concept of polluter pays and user payst We would like the opportunity to speak to our submission. Thank you for the opportunity to submit on the ICC Long Term Plan 2Ot8-2O28 and to have a I contribution to the future being of Southland's environment and its community' Barry Smith Chairman Otatara Landcare GrouP

220 Submitter No 35 Denis Bartley

221 qntltut ''' 16 May t4ay 201R Environment Southland Cnr North Road and Price Street lnvercargill Subiect Working together for a thriving Southland - Long-term Plan lwould like to make the following submission concerning the document'working together for a thriving Southland - Long-term Plan '. While I appreciate the amount of energy that has gone into the document, there are three points lwish to raise concerning the plan and its implementation.. 1) Page 8 -'Our Water, Our Land, Our Future' is an admirable statement. However, I would suggest that the'long Term Plan' also include a section on energy use that is both material and human energy. Thus the section would then become 'Our Water, Our Land, Our Energy, Our Future.' 2\ I believe any long term plan needs to be mindful of the broader issues around ethical investments and the use of Environment Southland's assets. 3) Finally, I would like to see the following statement included in the long-term plan; 'Environment Southland as a localgovemment organisation, has a duty of loyalty to the grcater good and to the best interesfs of Southland and all Southlanderc. This willtmnslate to its business being conducted in a transparcnt manner and without obfuscation. Yours Denis Bartley. 12 Dallas Street, Riverton 9822

222 Submitter No 9 Wendy Holder

223 ) a Ptease te[[ us ycut VIEWS By 4.30pm, Wednesday 16 May 2018 ${vrr0l{mt}r[swmuro 1 t MAY 2018 We are keen to get yourviews. lf you need more space please continue on a separate piece of paper and attach. I ) Environment Southland Long-term Plan 20L consultation Do you support urban stop bank upgrade construction works on the Waihopai River, Kingswell and Otepuni Streams starting after 2028? ( Fees and charges consu [tation Do you support an increase of our water improvement activity th of a new water improvement rate in2o79l2o? Preferred Option 1 Option 2 2 <-,/ 0 a? il, /0d?a/9?1? "Lf /r s s ccnu^c/rd,- r' /a/ea) / a / ie,?-x tuna/ OTeta u:y'o t s CL{.A,,7)-, al o ec,cit l at I 3o- *ulo/ e t n^rl/c /e -tcc.utl b, /,,-nzrs V /c-.e-a a,qlnc) AcoC, ft"k Environnrcnt Southland's fccs and chargcs havc bcen rcviewed. There are sonle ncw ones, and existing ones have i ncrcascd. A statenrent of proposat: Fees ond Chorges for is now out for consultation and availabte oniinc at or from Environmcnt Southland BB 45. Submissions close 4,30pm, Wednesday, 16 May Revenue and Financing Policy Review ty'{ I

224 ) Seeking you r feed back When counc[[[ors hear submissions on this consultation document, do you WA t to present your views in person? Yes No Pleose note: Upon request, we ore legolly required to moke oll written or electronic submissions ovoiloble to the public, inctuding the nome and oddress of the submitter, subiect to the provisions of the Local Government Official lnformotian ond Meetings Act lf you consider there ore compelling reosons why your contoct detoils ond/or submissiqn should be kept confidentiol, you should contoct the council's Strotegy ond Corporote Plonning Monoger. Contact details Name h/ern"l Hotcg< Organisation (if representing): Organisation role: PostaI address: I kn rlvvot-on-t? A)o +? D Z,e+U- Postcode: 10+ lt ho+>.na, /. ccuu" Phone: cz2 Signatu Date: We can receive your feedback in a number of ways: a Mait Freepost Authority No Environment Southland Private Bag lnvercargill 9840 Detivery Environment Southland Cnr North Rd & Price St lnverca rgi[[ (A/H please post at the door) 6I EI Online consu Itatlon@es.govt.nz service@es.govt.nz I es.govt.nz I facebook.com/environmentsouthland For now & our future

225 Submitter No 28 Hamish English

226 Revenue & Finance Policy Review 16/5/2018 Differential Rate retain or remove. The imposition and rise and rise of the dairy differential rate, (while some ratepayers were receiving rate reductions), was never a rational well founded rate- that s why it could not endure. Proposing to reimpose it with a view to morph into a water improvement rate is ad hoc. Council has said the dairy differential rate would be phased out. Doing what you say is powerful. Water Charges and Proposed water improvement Rate. Comment In two recent council communications; the LTP Document and a Council letter to consent holders ref A , there are various references to the cost recovery being for water research and monitoring, contributions to ES state of environment monitoring and investigation, contribution to water science and monitoring and lastly Water research and management. This is opaque at best. Is the Water research and management cost recovery a new charge? What is the revenue spent on and does that match the original 2010 spending categories? Ref 103/08/04. Council letter of ref A also states The vast majority of the water used in the region is allocated via resource consents. This is not true. The nutrient signature of permitted activity farming water use is there for everyone to see in our groundwater and waterways. A revenue and financing policy that seeks to recover costs on the basis of targeting only consented water takes is really only targeting a small portion of total water use.

227 All primary production uses water whether irrigated or not, largely the same amount of water per kg/dm is needed to grow grass, whether it s on my irrigated farm or grown on my un irrigated higher rainfall properties. The use of water to produce grass on both properties will equally have effects on catchment water quantity and quality. Primary industry production of all forms whether irrigated or not comes from a highly modified landscape that essentially is all about using water and sunshine to grow pasture in the medium of soil and harvest with grazing animals. My concern is that Council is looking to base revenue raising policy on a flawed assumption that consented takes are the vast majority of water use. Only if there is a compelling case for a separate water improvement rate then all water takes consented or otherwise must be considered. If that is done UAGC or funded from general rate is the most appropriate and says we are all in it together. If we learn one thing from the dairy differential it s that a large part of the ratepayers then believe water quality issues belong to someone else. For those who may dismiss these comments as self interest it would possibly be fiscally neutral for my farming operation whether a targeted or general approach. Council presenting it s Case. Page 11 of the consultation document contains some water monitoring results. The nitrogen results from 34 sites as presented appear to show a distinctly worsening trend. This is at odds compared to LAWA results from 70 plus sites which have been presented as much more positive and indeed a LAWA spokesperson said nitrate results indicate we may have turned a corner. The presentation of this selected data and no mention of the 65% no trend samples might appear to some to bolster the case for a water improvement rate. Was this Council s intention? Hamish English

228 Submitter No 30 (LTP) Submitter No 4 (F&C) Lex Brown

229 i 1lr"4DnilM ) I 0 MAY 2010 Ptease te[[ us your S By 4.30pm, Wednesday 16 May 2018 We are keen to get your views. lf you need more space please continue on a separate piece of paper and attach. i Environment Southtand Long-term Plan consultation Do you support urban stop bank upgrade construction works on the Waihopai River, Kingswell and Otepuni Streams starting after 2028? T Preferred option 1! option z Fees and charges consu [tation,j.'l Do you support an increase of our water improvement activity through the introduction of a new water improvement rate in2019l2o? l-l Preferred option I fl option z Feedback on another matter/s il /?- c L- t'- ri n,-.- io rr.*l,, -er ;,+ <: )ot er co u ltation Revenue and Financing Policy Review -( 7 r)) Lr. \ v Environment Sor-rthland's fees and chargcs have been rcviewed. Thcrc are somc ncw ones, and cxisting oncs have i ncreascd. A statemcnt of proposat: Fees ond Charges for is now out for consuttation and avaitable online at or from Environmcnt Southland BB 45. Submissions close 4.30pm, Wednesday, l6 May Do you agree with retaining the dairy differential rate for a further year to contribute to the water improvement activity? I Preferred optlon 1! Option 2 Long-term Ptan Consultation Document 3 1

230 ) Seeking you r feed back What do you.think of our approach to improving water quality through the People, W#erand Land progrqmme? I,.,d... -:'. I I ' - r L.,r t'.. \"._.',! -!. i (, d_,,_, L r a 1../'? i /!' \r ' I,'r! l-'9' *.t- i otcl, ^,,-,.-.,' L*w (.^--. 1 ' r' s.-c ],)'.1, -+c " V.,-i- -, i,-\ \- What do youthinl/of our approach to fhe Whakamana te Waituna programme? Felback on anothermatter/s,'- a.* u- -ll=,-- 1-ra\ r_ \ I l.' \ ;> i.t La'\ ' "':.- '. ijr"{-,i'":'1,, ' u/ t,o"\ _,L 4. Lr,,.' '' Jl '\ C CV^rrrf t..-,\ i l*, ;f I.-; +- g -\,L:l<c 'I /!) t.t \.i 11\- J I \J tl I ),.:t (] li i )-; "r* " r( -! '! J*. ti I ;t'q- \"-- tg v t\\zg" -\ V^'r'i"- 1 'n l"'y n f- When counci[[ors hear submissions on this consul want to present your views in person?,t'a.*.' \.\ (_ -,i 1 tation document, do you i), i.., 4') dt,r Yes No Pleose note: Upon request, we ore legolly required to moke oll written or electronic submissions avotloble to the public, including the nome ond oddress of the submitter, subject to the provisions of the Local Government Officiol lnformotion ond Meetings Act lf you consider there ore compelling reosons why your contoct detoils ond/or submission should be kept confidentiol, you should contoct the cauncil's Strotegy ond Corporote Plonning Monager. Contact details Name Organisation (if representing): Organisation role: --iz-'.j* u Postal address: Signatu re: Postcode: Phone: Date:.? -/ *L Si <1 Z* We ca n receive you r feed back in a n u m ber of ways: l5l uait ESI Freepost Authority No. 24 /4tB Environment Southland Private Bag lnvercargilt 9840 Detivery Environment Southland Cnr North Rd & Price St I nvercargi I (A/H please post at the door) 6I EI Online consu Itation@es.govt. nz service@es.govt.nz I es"govt.nz I facebook.com/environmentsouthland For now & our future

231 I i MAY IO10 ]- t o (\ Lll a-.! 0 o.r- \?o d lr"\ 0.Qf L"9 a-3 aa)