Agenda of Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting

	Authorising Body	Mayor/Council
	Status	Standing Committee
COUNCIL COMMITTEE	Title	Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee Terms of Reference
	Approval Date	29 June 2023
	Responsible Officer	Chief Executive

Kaupapa / Purpose

The purpose of Te Kuaka Committee is to strengthen a Te Ao Māori perspective within Council decision-making across policies and strategies.

To perform his or her role effectively, each member must develop and maintain his or her skills and knowledge, including an understanding of the Committees’ responsibilities, and of the Council’s business, operations and risks.

Ngā Huānga / Membership

The Committee will comprise of Mayor and all Councillors as well as 12 iwi representatives nominated through Te Kahu o Taonui and Hapu representatives with a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

The Committee must appoint an Iwi/Hapu member as the Chairperson or Deputy Chairperson.

Kahika/Mayor Moko Tepania

Harry Burkhardt - Chairperson

Hilda Halkyard-Harawira – Deputy Chairperson

Kōwhai/Deputy Mayor Kelly Stratford

John Vujcich

Ann Court

Babe Kapa

Felicity Foy

Mate Radich

Penetaui Kleskovic

Steve McNally

Tāmati Rākena

Kōrama / Quorum

The quorum at a meeting of the Committee is 7 members comprising of 5 FNDC representatives and 2 Te Kahu o Taonui members or Hapu representatives with a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

Ngā Hui / Frequency of Meetings

The Committee shall meet bi-monthly.

Ngā Apatono / Power to Delegate

The Committee may not delegate any of its responsibilities, duties or powers.

Ngā Herenga Paetae / Responsibilities

The Committees responsibilities are described below:

Ensure that the work of Te Kuaka is carried out in a way that enhances the social, economic, cultural, and environmental wellbeing of the Far North District
Mahi ngātahi mā te huihui, wānanga Recommend to Council, aspects of importance to Māori for incorporation into the development of the Strategic documents (e.g. Te Ao Māori Framework, Annual Plan, Long Term Plan, District Plan)
Manaaki To assist Council as appropriate in conducting and maintaining effective, good faith working relationships with the Māori community (e.g. Iwi Hapu Environmental Management Plans)
Recommend to Council aspects that the Far North District Council could pursue to develop and or enhance Māori capacity to contribute to Council’s decision-making processes.

Ngā Ture / Rules and Procedures

Council’s Standing Orders and Code of Conduct apply to all meetings.

Far North District Council

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting

will be held in the Council Chambers, Memorial Avenue, Kaikohe on:

Thursday 24 April 2025 at 10:00 AM

Te Paeroa Mahi / Order of Business

1 Karakia Tīmatanga / Opening Prayer. 7

2 Ngā Whakapāha Me Ngā Pānga Mema / Apologies and Declarations of Interest 7

3 Ngā Tono Kōrero / Deputation. 7

4 Te Whakaaetanga o Ngā Meneti o Mua / Confirmation of Previous Minutes. 8

4.1 Confirmation of Previous Minutes. 8

5 Ngā Pūrongo / Reports. 16

5.1 Election of Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee Chairperson. 16

5.2 Reorua Te Kerikeri 20

5.3 Rating Relief Policy 2021 Review.. 38

6 Ngā Pūrongo Taipitopito / Information Reports. 81

6.1 Civic Engagement and Education Update. 81

6.2 Whenua Māori - Freehold Land Rating Relief 84

6.3 Memorandum of Understanding Update. 87

6.4 Te Pae O Uta - Te Ao Māori Framework Quarterly Progress Update. 91

6.5 Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori 95

6.6 Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Open Resolutions Update. 100

Supplementary Agenda Items - distributed under separate cover

6.7 Te Kahu o Taonui Update

6.8 Local Waters Done Well Update

7 Karakia Whakamutunga / Closing Prayer. 108

8 Te Kapinga Hui / Meeting Close. 108

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

24 April 2025

4 Te Whakaaetanga o Ngā Meneti o Mua / Confirmation of Previous Minutes

4.1 Confirmation of Previous Minutes

File Number: A5117867

Author: Amber Wihongi-Alderton, Democracy Advisor

Authoriser: Aisha Huriwai, Manager - Democracy Services

Purpose of the Report

The minutes are attached to allow the Committee to confirm that the minutes are a true and correct record of the previous meeting.

Recommendation

That Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee confirm the minutes of the meeting held 27 February 2025 as a true and correct.

1) Background

Local Government Act 2002 clause 7 Section 28 states that a local authority must keep minutes of its proceedings. The minutes of these proceedings duly entered and authenticated as prescribed by a local authority are prima facie evidence of those meetings.

2) Discussion and Options

The minutes of the meeting are attached.

Far North District Council Standing Orders Section 27.3 states that “no discussion shall arise on the substance of the minutes in any succeeding meeting, except as to their correctness”.

Reason for the recommendation

The reason for the recommendation is to confirm the minutes are a true and correct record of the previous meeting.

3) Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision

There are no financial implications or the need for budgetary provision.

Attachments

1. 2025-02-27 Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Minutes - A5098125 ⇩

Compliance schedule:

Full consideration has been given to the provisions of the Local Government Act 2002 S77 in relation to decision making, in particular:

1. A Local authority must, in the course of the decision-making process,

a) Seek to identify all reasonably practicable options for the achievement of the objective of a decision; and

b) Assess the options in terms of their advantages and disadvantages; and

c) If any of the options identified under paragraph (a) involves a significant decision in relation to land or a body of water, take into account the relationship of Māori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral land, water sites, waahi tapu, valued flora and fauna and other taonga.

2. This section is subject to Section 79 - Compliance with procedures in relation to decisions.

Compliance requirement	Staff assessment
State the level of significance (high or low) of the issue or proposal as determined by the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy	This is a matter of low significance.
State the relevant Council policies (external or internal), legislation, and/or community outcomes (as stated in the LTP) that relate to this decision.	This report complies with the Local Government Act 2002 Schedule 7 Section 278.
State whether this issue or proposal has a District wide relevance and, if not, the ways in which the appropriate Community Board’s views have been sought.	It is the responsibility of each meeting to confirm their minutes therefore the views of another meeting are not relevant.
State the possible implications for Māori and how Māori have been provided with an opportunity to contribute to decision making if this decision is significant and relates to land and/or any body of water.	There are no implications on Māori in confirming minutes from a previous meeting. Any implications on Māori arising from matters included in meeting minutes should be considered as part of the relevant report.
Identify persons likely to be affected by or have an interest in the matter, and how you have given consideration to their views or preferences.	This report is asking for the minutes to be confirmed as true and correct record, any interest that affect other people should be considered as part of the individual reports.
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There are no financial implications or the need for budgetary provision arising from this report.
Chief Financial Officer review.	The Chief Financial Officer has not reviewed this report.

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

24 April 2025

5 Ngā Pūrongo / Reports

5.1 Election of Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee Chairperson

File Number: A5146532

Author: Marlema Baker, Democracy Advisor

Authoriser: Aisha Huriwai, Manager - Democracy Services

Purpose of the Report

The purpose of the report is to explain the procedure for electing a committee Chairperson and to elect a Chairperson for Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee (Te Kuaka).

WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary

· Council received notice that Harry Burkhardt resigned as Te Kahu o Taonui Chairperson.

· His role as Te Kuaka Chairperson is currently vacant.

· This report seeks to appoint a new committee Chairperson from Te Kahu o Taonui for the remainder of the triennium.

· Councillor Hilda Halkyard-Harawira will continue as Te Kuaka Deputy Chairperson.

Recommendation

That Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee:

a) use System B as the preferred voting system to elect a Chairperson.

b) elect _______________ as Chairperson for the remainder of the triennium April 2025 to October 2025, in accordance with Standing Orders.

1) Background

At the Council meeting dated 15 December 2022, Council confirmed the structure of its Standing Committees, as a result Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee was established.

At the meeting held 8 August 2023 Te Kahu o Taonui Chairperson Harry Burkhardt was appointed as Te Kuaka Chairperson and Hilda Halkyard-Harawira was appointed Deputy Chair.

On 22 January 2025 Council received notice that Harry Burkhardt had resigned as Te Kahu o Taonui Chairperson. His resignation included stepping down from any roles and responsibilities he held, leaving the role of Te Kuaka Chairperson vacant.

A new committee Chairperson is required for the remainder of this triennium. In accordance with the committee’s amended Terms of Reference, Te Kuaka must appoint an Iwi/Hapu member as the Chairperson or Deputy Chairperson during a formal meeting and, since the Deputy Chairperson is Cr Halkyard-Harawira, the Chairperson must be one of the 12 iwi representatives nominated through Te Kahu o Taonui or a Hapu member whose Hapu has a signed MoU with Council.

2) Discussion and Options

Schedule 7, section 25 of the Local Government Act 2002 provides for the election of a Chairperson.

In accordance with Council Standing Orders 5.4 the Chairperson of a Committee shall be elected from amongst its members at its first meeting. When electing a Chairperson the Committee must resolve to use one of the following two voting systems as set out in Standing Orders 5.6.

Option 1

System A -

The candidate will be elected or appointed if he or she receives the votes of a majority of the members of the local authority or committee who are present and voting. This system has the following characteristics:

a) there is a first round of voting for all candidates;

b) if no candidate is successful in the first round, there is a second round of voting from which the candidate with the fewest votes in the first round is excluded; and

c) if no candidate is successful in the second round, there is a third round, and if necessary subsequent rounds, of voting from which, each time, the candidate with the fewest votes in the previous round is excluded.

In any round of voting, if two or more candidates tie for the lowest number of votes, the person to be excluded from the next round is resolved by lot.

Option 2

System B -

a) requires that a person is elected or appointed if he or she receives more votes than any
other candidate; and

b) has the following characteristics:

(i) there is only one round of voting; and

(ii) if 2 or more candidates tie for the most votes, the tie is resolved by lot.

Option 2 is the recommended option. This is the system used by Council and Committees (if any) as per their Standing Orders.

Reason for the recommendation

To elect/appoint a Chairperson in accordance with Standing Orders as well as the Committee Terms of Reference, and also in alignment with the intent of valuing the contribution that our iwi/hapu partners bring to the Council decision-making table.

3) Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision

There are no financial implications or need for budgetary provisions as a result of this report.

Attachments

1. Resignation Letter - Harry Burkhardt (Te Kahu o Taonui) Chairperson - A5095452 ⇩

Compliance schedule:

Full consideration has been given to the provisions of the Local Government Act 2002 S77 in relation to decision making, in particular:

1. A Local authority must, in the course of the decision-making process,

a) Seek to identify all reasonably practicable options for the achievement of the objective of a decision; and

b) Assess the options in terms of their advantages and disadvantages; and

2. This section is subject to Section 79 - Compliance with procedures in relation to decisions.

Compliance requirement	Staff assessment
State the level of significance (high or low) of the issue or proposal as determined by the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy	This report is of low significance.
State the relevant Council policies (external or internal), legislation, and/or community outcomes (as stated in the LTP) that relate to this decision.	Appointment and Remuneration of Directors for Council Organisations Policy #2117 Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee Terms of Reference Te Pae o Uta – Te Ao Māori Framework
State whether this issue or proposal has a District wide relevance and, if not, the ways in which the appropriate Community Board’s views have been sought.	Districtwide views have not been sought as this is a Council governance decision.
State the possible implications for Māori and how Māori have been provided with an opportunity to contribute to decision making if this decision is significant and relates to land and/or any body of water.	This report does not have any specific implications for Māori.
Identify persons likely to be affected by or have an interest in the matter, and how you have given consideration to their views or preferences (for example – youth, the aged and those with disabilities.	This report does not affect any persons identified by legislation.
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There are no financial implications or budgetary provision required as a result of this report.
Chief Financial Officer review.	The Chief Financial Officer has not reviewed this report.

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

24 April 2025

5.2 Reorua Te Kerikeri

File Number: A5158118

Author: Lawrence Wharerau, Kaiārahi Kaupapa Māori

Authoriser: Jacine Warmington, Group Manager - Strategic Relationships

Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report

To provide Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Komiti with an update report on the progress of Te Kerikeri Reorua Strategy and its implementation to the end of March 2025.

WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary

This report is a summary and update of the Reorua Rautaki Agreement between Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rēhia (TRONR) and Te Kaunihera o Te Hiku o te Ika - Far North District Council (FNDC).

tŪtohunga / Recommendation

That the Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee:

a) receive the report Reorua Te Kerikeri;

b) endorse the new Reorua Strategy name, “Te Rauora” – “Kia rāhiri te reo, hei mōhiohio ka rauora te tūākiri (The revitilisation of language through education, respect and identity)”; and

c) recommend to Council to approve the new Reorua strategy name.

1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background

On June 1, 2023, TRONR and FNDC, launched a Rautaki Reorua / Bilingual Plan for Te Kerikeri (attached). The Rautaki Reorua is an agreement sponsored by Te Tari Taiwhenua – The Department of Internal Affairs to create Te Kerikeri as a bilingual township. Other Reorua urban centres in Aotearoa include, but are not limited to, Ōtaki, Rotorua, Whakatāne and Whangārei.

The document has also been prepared within the context of the Māori Language Act 2016 and Te Whare o te Reo Mauriora and its two maihi: Te Maihi Karauna - The Crown Māori Language Strategy and Te Maihi Māori - the Māori Language Strategy for Aotearoa.

The Rautaki Reo/Bilingual Plan includes TRONR led priority actions and outcomes, FNDC led priority actions and outcomes as well as joint priority actions and outcomes.

2) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options

TRONR have provided a report on activities and initiatives achieved within their community and fulfilling their obligations within the Rautaki Reorua/Bilingual Plan for the period October 1^st – 31^st December 2024 (attached).

FNDC are well within the timelines and on target to complete FNDC-led and joint-led outcomes as expressed in each strategic focus point within the Rautaki Reorua/Bilingual Plan. These targets have been met mainly through the establishment of Te Pae o Uta adopted by FNDC September 2023 and implemented 1^st of July 2024.

Internally, the main delivery of FNDC obligations noted in the strategic focus areas have been achieved through the implementation of Te Pae o Waho (TPoW). This is our Te Reo Māori and Tikanga training programme for staff and contractors. This began with the establishment of our Kaiwhakangungu Reo in September 2024.

173 staff members have enrolled on our TPoW training programme. Completion rates vary as staff members schedules and priorities determine their availability to attend or not. There is an expectation that those enrolling achieve 80% attendance rate to complete their training obligations.

Those who do not achieve this level of attendance are encouraged to re-enrol to complete their attendance requirements.

Council staff met with Ngāti Rēhia and the community to wānanga the new name for this strategy. The new name is to be endorsed by Te Kuaka.

Attached also please find a copy of the Pou Tuarongo – Back of the Whare table included in the Kerikeri Rautaki Reorua between TRONR and FNDC with highlighted actions completed by and achieved by council.

TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION

A name change is required to the strategy.

3) PĀnga PŪtea me ngĀ wĀhanga tahua / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision

There are no financial implications in receiving this report.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. 2023 Kerikeri Rautaki Reo Final - A5158307 ⇩

2. Ngāti Rēhia Reorua update 31/12/2024 - A5158301 ⇩

3. Pou Tuarongo - Back of the Whare table with highlighted actions by FNDC - A5142115 ⇩

Hōtaka Take Ōkawa / Compliance Schedule:

Full consideration has been given to the provisions of the Local Government Act 2002 S77 in relation to decision making, in particular:

1. A Local authority must, in the course of the decision-making process,

a) Seek to identify all reasonably practicable options for the achievement of the objective of a decision; and

b) Assess the options in terms of their advantages and disadvantages; and

2. This section is subject to Section 79 - Compliance with procedures in relation to decisions.

He Take Ōkawa / Compliance Requirement	Aromatawai Kaimahi / Staff Assessment
State the level of significance (high or low) of the issue or proposal as determined by the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy	Significance is low in endorsing and receiving this report
State the relevant Council policies (external or internal), legislation, and/or community outcomes (as stated in the LTP) that relate to this decision.	Te Pae o Uta Ka Irihia Te Pae Tata
State whether this issue or proposal has a District wide relevance and, if not, the ways in which the appropriate Community Board’s views have been sought.	This proposal has huge significance for the Bay of Islands-Whangaroa ward as it focusses entirely on outcomes within the Kerikeri area.
State the possible implications for Māori and how Māori have been provided with an opportunity to contribute to decision making if this decision is significant and relates to land and/or any body of water. State the possible implications and how this report aligns with Te Tiriti o Waitangi / The Treaty of Waitangi.	The implications for Māori are significant. Extensive collaboration was undertaken with Ngāti Rēhia and the wider community in deciding this new name.
Identify persons likely to be affected by or have an interest in the matter, and how you have given consideration to their views or preferences (for example – youth, the aged and those with disabilities).	This is a community wide proposal and will affect the outcomes of all within the wider Kerikeri area
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There are no financial implications in endorsing this name change
Chief Financial Officer review.	The Chief Financial Officer as not reviewed this report.

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

24 April 2025

5.3 Rating Relief Policy 2021 Review

File Number: A5100885

Author: Shayne Storey, Team Leader - Policy & Bylaws

Authoriser: Roger Ackers, Group Manager - Planning & Policy

TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report

The purpose of this report is for Te Kuaka to consider the Rating Relief Policy 2021 review and recommend to Council that the policy continues with amendment.

WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY

Under section 102 of the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA02) Council must have rates remission and rates postponement policies. This includes the requirement to adopt a policy on remission and postponement of rates on Māori freehold land. The Rating Relief Policy has been reviewed, which established that a policy is still the most appropriate way to address rating relief for the district.

The review identified that the following sections of the policy should continue without amendment:

· R21/02 – Unusable Land

· R21/04 – Community, Sports and Not-for-profit Organisations

· R21/05 – Properties Spanning Multiple Districts

· R21/07 – Remission of School Sewerage Charges

· R21/08 – Excess Water Charges

· R23/15 – Enabling Housing Development on Māori Freehold Land

· P21/01 – Land Subject to Protection for Outstanding Natural Landscape, Cultural, Historic or Ecological Purposes

· P21/04 – Transitional policy for the postponement of rates on farmland

· P21/05 – Residential Rates for Senior Citizens

· ML21/01 – Māori Freehold Land Not Used

Additionally, the review identified that the following sections of the policy should continue with amendment:

· ML21/02 – Māori Freehold Land used for the purposes of Papakainga or other housing purposes subject to occupation licenses or other informal arrangements

· R21/01 – Remission of Penalties

· R21/06 – Common-Use Properties

· R21/13 – Incentivising Māori Economic Development

· R21/14 – Treaty Settlement Lands

· P21/03 – Landlocked Land

TŪTOHUNGA / Recommendation

That the Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee receive the report Rating Relief Policy 2021 Review and recommend that Council

a) agree, the Rating Relief Policy has been reviewed.

b) approve, the Rating Relief Policy continue with amendment.

tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background

Under section 102 of the Local Government Act 2002 (LGA02), Council must have rates remission and rates postponement policies. This includes the requirement to adopt a policy on remission and postponement of rates on Māori freehold land and the discretion to adopt rates remission and rates postponement policies.

On 13 May 2021 (Resolution 2021/20) Council made the Rating Relief Policy under section 102 of the LGA02.

Under sections 108–110 of the LGA02, rates remission and / or postponement policies must be reviewed every 6 years via a consultation process that gives effect to the formal “Principles of Consultation” under section 82 LGA02. Council last reviewed the policy in September 2020 as part of the Long-Term Plan process.

The current policy is due for review no later than September 2026. On this basis, review of the Rating Relief Policy had been scheduled in the Policy & Bylaws Work Programme for the 2026-27 financial year. The current review has been brought forward at the request of elected members specifically to review the policies relating to Māori freehold land.

The current objectives of Council’s rating relief policy is to:

· provide a fair and equitable collection of rates from all sectors of the community

· provide an equitable system of rating remission and postponement for all sectors of the community

· recognise that there is a community benefit to provide rating relief to certain charitable and

· community organisations

· provide ratepayers with financial assistance where they might otherwise have difficulty meeting their obligations to pay rates

· align with Council’s community outcomes and strategic priorities

· recognise that certain unoccupied, unused Māori Freehold Land may have conditions, ownership structures, or other circumstances which make it appropriate to remit or postpone rates for defined periods of time

· ensure consideration of Schedule 11 of the LGA 2002 (matters relating to rates relief on Māori Freehold Land).

The sections of the Rating Relief Policy have been reviewed collectively to ensure that any amendments to the policy are not progressed in isolation.

Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 (TTWMA)

Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 (TTWMA) is the primary legislation governing whenua Māori, including Māori Freehold Land. The preamble to that Act sets out the principles within which the whenua Māori framework operates.

Under section 102 LGA02 Rates Remissions Policies must support the principles set out in the preamble to TTWMA. All policies in the Rates Remission and Postponement Policy apply to whenua Māori freehold land unless stated otherwise and whenua Māori rates remission provisions in the policies have been developed against the backdrop of the TTWMA principles and the objectives outlined in Schedule 11 of the LGA02 (Matters relating to rates relief on Māori freehold land).

The objectives of rating relief in relation to Māori Freehold Land under Schedule 11 of LGA02 are:

· supporting the use of the land by the owners for traditional purposes

· recognising and supporting the relationship of Māori and their culture and traditions with their ancestral lands

· avoiding further alienation of Māori freehold land

· facilitating any wish of the owners to develop the land for economic use

· recognising and taking account of the presence of wahi tapu that may affect the use of the land for other purposes

· recognising and taking account of the importance of the land in providing economic and infrastructure support for marae and associated Papakainga housing (whether on the land or elsewhere)

· recognising and taking account of the importance of the land for community goals relating to the preservation of the natural character of the coastal environment

· the protection of outstanding natural features

· the protection of significant indigenous vegetation and significant habitats of indigenous fauna

· recognising the level of community services provided to the land and its occupiers

· recognising matters related to the physical accessibility of the land.

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Summary of Review Findings and Options

Summary of Review Findings

Staff have reviewed each section of the policy individually, ten of which remain fit for purpose with no amendment recommended, However, staff recommend amendments to six of the sections to provide clarity, additional guidelines, conditions and criteria. Furthermore, staff recommend amendments to the Introduction and definitions of the policy to provide supplementary information.

The Review Research Report - Rating Relief Policies (Attachment 1) describes and discusses the review of the sixteen sections. An overview of the sections with review findings is outlined below.

R21/01 Remission of Penalties

The policy allows for the remission of penalties where the ratepayer has entered into repayment arrangements or there are reasonable grounds to remove the penalty. This policy applies to both General Title and Māori Freehold Land.

Staff have recommended minor changes to the policy to provide clarity regarding application criteria and conditions.

R21/02 Unusable Land

The policy provides rating relief to the owners of properties that have become unusable as a result of a natural disaster, and where the loss of the use of the property will result in financial hardship for the owner. This policy applies to both General Title and Māori Freehold Land.

The policy outlines:

· potential financial assistance available for the community

· the conditions and criteria needed to receive rating relief

The policy review found the policy to be an appropriate mechanism for granting a remission of rates on land that has become indefinitely unusable as a result of a natural disaster and staff have recommended no substantive changes to the current policy.

R21/04 Community, Sports and Not-For-Profit Organisations

The policy:

· assists in the ongoing provision of community services and recreational opportunities that benefit Far North residents.

· recognises that there is a community benefit in providing assistance through rating relief to certain charitable and community organisations.

Staff have recommended no substantive changes to the current policy.

R21/05 Properties Spanning Multiple Districts

The policy recognises that some properties span multiple districts and ensures that only the portion of property within the Far North District is rated by the Far North District Council. This policy applies to both General Title and Māori Freehold Land.

A review found that the policy states that rates will be remitted on any portion of a property of the Far North District that spans other districts. Staff have recommended no substantive changes to the current policy.

R21/06 Common-Use Properties

Section 20 of the LGRA 02 requires that multiple rating units be treated as one rating unit if they are:

1. Owned by the same person or persons; and,

2. Used jointly as a single unit; and,

3. Contiguous or separated only by a road, railway, drain, water race, river or stream.

This policy expands on the provisions of the Act and provides for commercial operations to be treated as one rating unit to assist economic development in the district. This policy applies to both General Title and Māori Freehold Land.

The purpose of the policy is to:

· To enable the Council to act fairly and equitably with respect to the imposition of the Uniform Annual General Charge (UAGC)^{^[1]} and applicable targeted rates on 2 or more separate rating units that are contiguous, separately owned and used jointly for a single residential, commercial or farming use.

· To deal equitably with the imposition of the UAGC and applicable targeted rates on 2 or more separate rating units that have resulted from a subdivision to facilitate the development of the district.

The review found that the policy is an appropriate mechanism to fairly and equitably impose the UAGC and to encourage development in urban areas. Staff recommend minor changes to the policy to provide clarity regarding conditions and criteria.

R21/07 Remission of School Sewerage Charges

The Council recognises that schools may be disproportionately charged for sewerage services where there are a higher number of toilets in relation to the actual number of students enrolled in schools. This policy ensures that schools are equitably charged for sewerage services.

The review found that the policy gives appropriate guidance to ensure schools are equitably charged for sewerage services. Staff have recommended no substantive changes to the current policy.

R21/08 Excess Water Charges

Council may allow for the reduction of water charges in certain circumstances where a leak or damage to a ratepayer’s water supply system has resulted in excessive water rates.

The policy:

· ensures standardised procedures are in place to assist ratepayers who have excessive water rates due to a fault (leak) in the internal reticulation serving their rating unit

· incentivises ratepayers to regularly check their water meter and maintain their internal water reticulation ensuring that consumers retain responsibility for the maintenance of their private reticulation.

The review has established that the policy is an appropriate mechanism for a reduction of excess water charges under certain circumstances. Staff recommend no substantive changes are made to the current policy.

R21/13 Incentivising Māori Economic Development

Council recognises that there is a need to incentivise economic development on Māori Freehold Land. Enabling and incentivising Māori economic development through the remission of rates may see direct economic and social benefits to landowners and generate a return on the land. It may also provide benefits to Council by way of future rates contributions as the venture grows and becomes sustainable.

The policy aims to:

· provide incentives for Māori landowners to develop Māori Freehold Land for economic use.

· enable owners to develop an economic base and to assist with the subsequent payment of rates.

The review found the policy is an appropriate mechanism to provide incentives for the development of Māori Freehold Land and enable economic development. However, staff recommend minor changes to clarify and refine the conditions and criteria of the policy.

R21/14 Treaty Settlement Lands

Council recognises that post-settlement governance entities (PSGEs), which are formed to receive properties returned as a part of Treaty of Waitangi settlements, will require time to develop strategic plans, restore protections, and complete necessary works for cultural and commercial redress properties. These properties can be classed as General Title, which means that the rating relief policies for Māori Freehold Land do not apply to all of these properties. This policy has been developed to enable a similar approach to be applied to rating relief on all post-settlement lands.

The review found that a policy is the most appropriate form to recognise that Treaty Settlement lands may have unique circumstances which make rates remission appropriate. However, staff recommend minor changes to clarify and refine the conditions and criteria of the policy.

R21/15 Enabling Housing Development on Māori Freehold Land

The Local Government Rating Act 2002 S114A requires Council to recognise that there is a need to enable housing development on Māori Freehold Land. Enabling housing development through the remission of rates will see direct social benefits to landowners, as well as to Council from future rates contributions.

The review has established that the policy is an appropriate mechanism to enable housing development on Māori Freehold Land through the remission of rates. No substantive changes are recommended by staff.

P21/01 Land Subject to Protection for Outstanding Natural Landscape, Cultural, Historic or Ecological Purposes

The Far North District Council recognises that certain rateable land within the district is protected for outstanding natural landscape, cultural, heritage, or ecological purposes.

The policy aims to provide rating relief to landowners who have reserved lands that have particular outstanding natural landscape, cultural, historic or ecological values for future generations. This policy applies to both General Title and Māori Freehold Land.

The review has established that the policy is an appropriate mechanism to provide rating relief to landowners of Outstanding natural Landscapes for Cultural, Historic or Ecological Purposes. No substantive changes are recommended by staff.

P21/03 Landlocked Land

The Property Law Act 2007 enables owners of landlocked properties to take legal action in order to gain reasonable access to their property.

Ratepayers may be unable to take action under these provisions of the Property Law Act due to their financial circumstances.

This policy has been prepared to cover the exceptional circumstances and will only be applied after all other avenues for access have been explored by the owner.

The review has established that the policy is an appropriate mechanism to provide rating relief to those who do not have access to their land and are financially unable to take legal action through the Property Law Act 2007. However, staff recommend minor changes to clarify and refine the conditions and criteria of the policy.

P21/04 Transitional policy for the Postponement of Rates on Farmland

This policy is to address the rating of farmland that previously received a rate- postponement value pursuant to Section 22 of the Rating Valuations Act.

The intention is to provide rates relief for the owners of farmland who previously received rating relief whose land values were increased beyond that of other farmland in the district because of the potential use to which the land could be put for residential, commercial, industrial, or other non-farming development.

The Policy is restricted to those farms which are owner operated, and the owners live on and operate the farm as a personal business. The policy specifically excludes those farms which are held as investment properties where the owners live outside the district.

The review has established that the policy provides an appropriate mechanism to provide transitional rating relief to subject to increased land values due to proximity to coastal and/or urban development. Staff recommend no substantive changes to this policy.

P21/05 Residential Rates for Senior Citizens

This policy provides senior citizens with the option of postponing their rates to be paid until a sale of the rating unit takes place, or, in the event that they pass away, until the settlement of their estate. This will relieve elderly people of potential financial hardship, and enhance the quality of their lives, including the ability to remain in their home longer with limited income.

The review has established that the policy is an appropriate mechanism to relieve elderly people of potential financial hardship, enhance the quality of their lives and enable them to remain in their homes longer with limited income. Staff recommend no substantive changes to this policy.

ML21/01 Māori Freehold Land Not Used

2021 amendments to the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002 mean that unused Māori Freehold Land is legally non-rateable, so is not charged rates except those related to water supply, sewerage, and rubbish collection.

This policy applies to remissions on land that remains unused/unoccupied following the granting of a licence to occupy from the Māori Land Court or recognition of an informal arrangement to occupy. Because a licence to occupy or an informal arrangement does not create a separate rating unit, any unused /unoccupied land remaining does not automatically become “non- rateable”.

The review has confirmed that the policy provides an appropriate mechanism to provide remissions for portions of Māori Freehold land not occupied or used. No substantive changes are recommended by staff

ML21/02 Māori Freehold Land Used for Purposes of Papakainga or Other Housing Purposes

Council recognises that the potential imposition of multiple UAGCs or other non-service-related charges can act as a disincentive to Māori seeking to occupy Māori Freehold Land for housing purposes. Council seeks to put in place processes to assist Māori to establish papakāinga or other housing on Māori Freehold Land.

The policy allows residents of Māori Freehold land with occupation licenses or other informal arrangements to pay their portion of rates in respect of the land that they occupy by allowing for the remission of multiple UAGCs and other charges, on separately used or inhabited parts of a rating unit where these are the covered by occupation licenses, or other informal arrangements.

Staff have identified several areas of the policy that require amendment to clarify and refine the conditions and criteria of the policy.

Options

Option One: Continue the Rating Relief Policy 2021 with amendment (recommended option)

Continuing the Rating Relief Policy 2021 with amendment will provide clarity, additional guidelines and criteria, as well as including specific reference to both the Preamble to Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993 and the objectives of rating relief in relation to Māori Freehold Land under Schedule 11 of the Local Government Act 2002.

Advantages

Disadvantages

Provides clear guidelines, definitions and additional conditions for rating relief

Includes reference to Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993

Streamlines requirements and processes

None identified

Option Two: Continue without amendment

The Rating Relief Policy 2021 will remain in place with no changes.

Advantages

Disadvantages

None identified

Existing policy is unclear

Does not recognise Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993

Prohibitive requirements will remain in place

Next Steps

If Council agrees with the recommendations, a new form of the Rating Relief Policy will be drafted and presented to Te Kuaka and Council in June. If Council approves the proposed draft, public consultation will take place for four weeks from 4 July-1 August, with verbal submissions to follow, giving effect to the formal “Principles of Consultation” under section 82 LGA2002. It is anticipated that the analysis of submissions will be completed, and the final draft of the policy will be presented to Te Kuaka and Council in August.

PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision

The cost of continuing the policy with amendment will be met from existing operation budgets.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. Review Research Report - Rating Relief Policies - A5148913 ⇩

2. rating-relief-policies-2021-31 - A4684953 ⇩

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

24 April 2025

6 Ngā Pūrongo Taipitopito / Information Reports

6.1 Civic Engagement and Education Update

File Number: A5119317

Author: Casey Gannon, Manager - Civic Engagement and Education

Authoriser: Jacine Warmington, Group Manager - Strategic Relationships

TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report

To provide Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee with an update on Far North District Council (FNDC) Civic Engagement and Education (CEE) work programme.

WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY

The CEE work programme is a phased approach which initially focuses on local government elections in 2025 but will extend beyond that as civic engagement and education expand throughout the district.

TŪTOHUNGA / Recommendation

That Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee receive the report Civic Engagement and Education Update.

tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background

Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee received a report 27 Feb 2025 which provided a high-level overview of the CEE work programme. This report provides a further update on the progress of the work programme.

· We are currently in PHASE B – Civic Engagement

o Feb 22 Kaitāia A&P Show

o March 14 Haititai Marangai Marae

o March 21 Heartlands – Hokianga Health (monthly)

o March 28-30 Te Āhuareka o Ngāti Hine Festival

o March 29 Pawarenga Festival

o April 7 Roma Marae

o April 8 Oakridge Retirement Village (bi-monthly)

o April 9 Te Tai Tokerau Secondary School Nationals

o April 28 Te Hiku – Te Tiriti o Waitangi Commemorations

Community engagement continues throughout the district in collaboration with the Electoral Commission and multiple teams throughout Far North District Council dependent on active consultation periods.

Future engagements to be organised:

- Takiwā (hapū group) hui in Kaikohe, Hokianga, Pipiwai and Whangaroa

- Rangatahi (youth) engagement

o alternative education programmes delivered by Ngāti Hine

o taiao/whenua (environment/land) programmes in collaboration with Northland Regional Council currently running in Te Hiku

o rangatahi connected to all four wards committed to innovative rangatahi led initiatives to share civic education

- Pasifika engagements

- Multi-ethnic engagements

- Café pop ups (district wide)

To stay informed about 2025 Local Government Elections key dates and relevant information visit:

Far North District Council - Local Elections 2025

o Update/change/choose enrolment details before 11 July 2025

o Candidate nominations open 4 July 2025

o Candidate nominations close 1 August 2025

o Candidates announced 8 August 2025

o Voting opens 9 September 2025

o Voting closes 11 October 2025 (midday)

o Final results announced 14 October 2025

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps

An “early and often” engagement approach has proven to be an acceptable form of engagement as it builds and strengthens relationships allowing Manager-Civic Engagement and Education to “meet people where” both physically and interest level. Gauging level of interest and understanding previous participation levels leads to a starting point to making local government relevant.

The main message in Phase B-Civic Engagement is to encourage active participation. While this is an election year – it is important for all of our communities to understand that local voice is what informs the decision-making process once those candidates are elected.

As we move into Phase C-Pre-Election Period the focus of CEE work programme will include additional resources to prepare potential candidates and manage expectations of candidates and voters.

Civic Education during Pre-Election Period includes but not limited to:

- Candidate Handbook (available from May)

- Far North District Council Pre-Election Report (June/July)

- Candidate Evening event (Kaikohe 25 June) in collaboration with Northland Regional Council

- Webinar (date TBD) in collaboration with all four councils in Te Tai Tokerau

- LGNZ online portal free to public (date TBD)

A strong desire from community leaders to activate their respective communities during this election year has been indicated by, iwi, hapū, marae, multiple sport codes, local and regional business, Pasifika and multi-ethnic communities. Exciting initiatives led by youth are in development as is the use of AI to facilitate engagement which we hope will activate the 47% of eligible enrolled voters who are not voting.

PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision

There are no financial implications.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

Nil

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

24 April 2025

6.2 Whenua Māori - Freehold Land Rating Relief

File Number: A5151433

Author: Zena Tango, Team Leader - Transaction Services

Authoriser: Charlie Billington, Group Manager - Corporate Services

TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report

The purpose of this report is to update Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee (Te Kuaka) on the progress made to date by the Whenua Māori Working Group (the Working Group).

WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY

· The Working Group was established to ensure Far North District Council (FNDC) provides ongoing support to Māori Freehold Landowners

· The Working Group has committed to taking a holistic approach with cross-Council collaboration and community engagement to achieve key outcomes of reducing debt levels, clarifying rating information, reducing barriers to land use and development, stimulating regional growth, and enhancing understanding of Whenua Māori.

TŪTOHUNGA / RECOMMENDATION

That Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee receive the report Whenua Māori - Freehold Land

Rating Relief.

tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background

The following is an outline of actions that have been completed since the 27 February 2025 report.

Actions completed		Start date			End date
Learning and development training plan Whenua Māori for working group & others involved in engagement plan			01/05/24		01/11/24
Geospatial mapping: Basemap loaded and operational (received by 30/12/24 due to vendors health issues this has added additional delays) Verbal update provided in February hui due to key staff being on annual leave.		01/05/24			19/08/24
In progress	Start date			End date
Review of existing rating relief policies	01/05/24			WIP
Commence engagement. (have extended the end date to 30 June 2025)	30/09/24			30/06/25
Data analysis utilising geospatial mapping to review the balance of 2,501 accounts (We had data corruption previously, they have been resolved but vendors health issues have added additional delays, now expected to commence 01/11//24. Revenue Recovery are currently reviewing these accounts manually).	27/09/24			30/06/25
Next steps	Start date			End date
Build layers to utilise geospatial mapping for data analysis (We had data corruption previously; they have been resolved but vendors health issues have added additional delays. To be completed by 30/12/2024) Verbal update provided in April hui.	13/09/24			30/12/24

The Working Group aims to have materially completed its review of accounts by the end of the 2024/2025 rating year, with future reviews to be completed annually.

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps

Property Reviews

A total arrears balance of $926,077.69 for 236 properties, has been written off since the working group was established. $329,215.69 of the above are the Chief Executive (CE) write-offs which have been processed this rating year. We currently have 2 CE write-off applications to be processed.

Revenue Recovery are manually reviewing 2501 rate accounts due to the ongoing delays of the geo-spatial mapping tool. As of 7 April 2025, the team had reviewed 297 accounts. From this data 197 accounts need further investigation.

A screenshot of a computer

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Marae visits

Four Marae hui have been held to date with the latest being at Roma Marae on the 7^th April. These hui were attended by staff, elected members, Te Kooti Whenua Māori and Te Puni Kokiri. Consensus so far has been welcoming and has provided us with valuable insight on what we can do better, this helps inform us on what to include in future marae hui. Elected members and staff who have attended these hui are also given an opportunity to provide feedback. Currently we are awaiting confirmation of dates and times for the below marae:

Day	Date	Marae	Time
Friday	30 May 2025	Pakanae Marae	TBC
Saturday	7 June 2025	Te Tii Marae (14 June backup date)	TBC

Calendar invites have been sent to elected members. Communications have been distributed to external stakeholders and partners via email, and the information has been added to our website and social media channels.

It is proposed that the FNDC Multimedia Strategy & Communications Advisor attend a Marae and make a short film of the day.

Cultural events

Members of the working group attended Waitangi Day and Te Āhuareka o Ngāti Hine festival at Ōtiria to promote the Whenua Māori Marae Hui and provide information on Whenua Māori. The working group are looking at attending the Tai Tokerau Kapahaka Festival this week in Opononi.

Updates

Verbal updates of any changes since the date the report was submitted, will be provided by the team during the committee meeting.

PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision

Provision is made for doubtful debts in relation to the arrears owed to council.

Impact on financial performance is expected to be limited as aged balances are provided for under the doubtful debt provision, which offsets the amount written off within the rating year.

Financial implications are relevant to the engagement plan as budget is required to fund this activity.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

Nil

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

24 April 2025

6.4 Te Pae O Uta - Te Ao Māori Framework Quarterly Progress Update

File Number: A5135703

Author: Llani Harding, Pouhautū Te Hono - Manager - Te Hono

Authoriser: Jacine Warmington, Group Manager - Strategic Relationships

TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report

To provide a progress update on Te Pae o Uta.

WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY

· Progress on Te Pae o Uta framework initiatives:

o Te Reo and Tikanga Policy – Ka Irihia Action plan

o Te Rōpū Tupuwanawana (Te Rōpū) – Te Pae o Uta steering group

o Te Pae o Uta dashboard and reporting

o Te Pae o Waho

o Te Pae Waiata

o Kōrero Mai te Reo App

o Far North Holdings (CCO)

o Awards

TŪTOHUNGA / Recommendation

That Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee receive the Te Pae O Uta - Te Ao Māori Framework Quarterly Progress Update.

tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background

The Far North District Council (FNDC) adopted the Te Pae o Uta Framework in the Council hui (resolution 2023/8 dated 7 September 2023). The overall principles for council in respect of the Te Pae o Uta are to:

· Recognise He Whakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nu Tireni (Declaration of Independence) and Te Tiriti o Waitangi (Treaty of Waitangi) as the founding covenants of Te Tai Tokerau and Aotearoa respectively;

· Acknowledge the importance of relationships both tangible and intangible e.g. Ngā Atua, Whenua, Mauri ō Te Wai, Taiao (Oranga Taiao, Oranga Tangata);

· Focus on the pursuit of excellence in the Te Ao Māori space;

· Valuing Te Ao Māori requires staff to understand key Māori concepts and practices;

· Acknowledge kōrero tuku iho at FNDC by recognising iwi and hapū kōrero.

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps

Implementation of Te Pae o Uta is progressing well, across the organisation.

Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) and Iwi/Hapū Environmental Management Plans (IHEMPs)

Council continues to work alongside Iwi and Hapū to develop MOUs. FNDC recently signed a MOU with Ngāti Rēhia. A further three MOUs/Mana Whakahono are progressing well with an aim to have these signed prior to July 1^st, 2025. Kōrero has been elevated through the Chief Executive (CE) and Kahika to discuss MOUs with Iwi CEs and Chairs.

IHMP applications for the 2025 funding round have now closed. Council received two completed applications for funding. These applications are currently being reviewed by Te Hono staff for completeness and will advise hapū directly of outcome.

With the inclusion of a Climate Adaptation focus within IHMPs, Te Hono are also working alongside the Climate Action & Resilience team and external consultants, to support hapū through the development of their plans.

Te Rōpū Tupuwanawana (Te Rōpū)

Te Rōpū has now been established to help lead and guide FNDC staff through the implementation of Te Pae o Uta. The purpose of Te Rōpū is to oversee Te Pae o Uta implementation, review progress and encourage continuous improvement. Te Rōpū is made up of staff representatives from each group. The Chief Executive is the sponsor. Te Rōpū last met on the 7^th of March to confirm the application for the Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards.

Te Pae o Uta Dashboard and Reporting

Te Hono have continued to provide 6-weekly check-ins with staff on their committed goals for each department.

Staff have committed to 155 goals towards achieving the goals of Te Pae o Uta.

Te Pae o Uta is also captured in the bi-annual Staff engagement survey asking staff, “I see how my team contributes to Te Pae o Uta goals (Te Ao Māori Framework for FNDC)”. In the most recent survey (February 2025) the overall score was 7.1, a 0.5-point improvement since 2 June 2024.

The following dashboard provides a snapshot of progress:

A blue and white graphic with numbers and text

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Te Pae o Waho

The second cohort began in February 2025. There are currently 96 staff enrolled on this cohort completing Levels 1-3, online and across 3 locations: Monday - online, Tuesday -Te Ahu, Wednesday – Kaikohe, and Thursday – Kerikeri.

Feedback received from staff include: “I love my Mondays as I know I have Te Pae o Waho”, “I'm really enjoying Eli as a Kaiako - he's cool and makes the lessons fun and engaging”.

Current enrolments: A screenshot of a computer

The success of the Strategic Leadership Team’s (SLT) learning journey can be seen through Group Manager’s confidence and commitment in reciting pepeha and karakia at people leader and all staff meetings.

Te Pae Waiata

Waiata lessons have been combined with Te Pae o Waho classes. Te Pae Waiata booklets are available to staff as hardcopies and to download using QR codes.

At the most recent all staff meeting (March) Te Hono staff lead the teaching of Waiata-ā-ringa (action song). The positive feedback received means that future all staff meetings will continue to include a Waiata session.

Kōrero Mai te Reo

Kōrero Mai te Reo is FNDC’s cultural competency app designed by staff on a platform designed by Kiwa Digital. The app has been active 2010. The purpose of the app is to enable consistent learning and understanding by staff utilising various channels. Staff can continue to learn outside any formal class, using the app which makes it convenient. The app is publicly available and can be downloaded via App Store or Google Play.

The app is currently being refreshed to align with Te Pae o Uta, Te Pae o Waho, Te Pae Waiata and to reflect new FNDC logo and name.

Far North Holdings (FNHL)

Incorporating Te Pae o Uta into FNHL business as usual remains a key focus. At a recent workshop with elected members to review FNHL’s draft 2026 Statement of Intent (SOI) clear signals from elected members are that Te Pae o Uta must be given consideration in any future SOIs. For FNDC to be an organisation that is genuine in its actions to cultivate our partnerships with Iwi/Hapū, FNHL must be included.

Awards

Applying for appropriate awards for the Te Pae o Uta - Te Ao Māori Framework is important to provide recognition of the framework's innovative and culturally grounded approach to guiding and improving FNDC’s responsiveness and inclusiveness of Te Ao Māori across the organisation for improved decision-making, Māori well-being and success. Awards can validate the value of integrating Te Ao Māori principles into organisational practices, encouraging respect for and adherence to Te Tiriti o Waitangi and He Whakaputanga.

Additionally, recognition through awards enhances the framework's visibility, fostering collaboration and investment in Māori-led initiatives. It acknowledges the mahi of those involved, inspiring others to prioritise culturally responsive frameworks while strengthening the identity, mana, and aspirations of Māori communities.

Awards that have been applied for:

· Oct 2024 - Human Resources New Zealand (HRNZ) Mana Tangata - Emerging or Leader Māori HR Award. “The Award is for individuals/organisations who have implemented significant programmes that involve integrating Māori cultural values and tikanga into their practices including HRM policies. Entry into this Award category requires demonstration of tangible improvement in outcomes for Māori in the workplace”.

FNDC was a finalist for this award, and Councillors Rākena and Halkyard-Harawira attended the awards evening alongside Te Hono and People & Capability staff. Unfortunately, the award went to another finalist, but the awards process was described as a good learning experience.

· March 2025 - Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards – “Te Tohu Waka Hourua (the Double Canoe) – the Buddle Findlay Award for Excellence in Māori-Council Partnerships” category. The award application was submitted to Taituarā, and the awards ceremony will be held at the Taituarā Gala Dinner in June 2025 where winners will be announced.

Future Awards to be investigated:

· Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Māori - Te Wiki o te Reo Māori (2025)

· Super Local Awards (2025)

PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision

Activities are undertaken within existing group budgets.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

Nil

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

24 April 2025

6.5 Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori

File Number: A5136455

Author: Llani Harding, Pouhautū Te Hono - Manager - Te Hono

Authoriser: Jacine Warmington, Group Manager - Strategic Relationships

TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report

To provide the Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee (Te Kuaka) with quarterly updates on Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori.

WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY

· Te Kuaka is committed to ensuring that the work of the Committee is carried out in a way that enhances the social, economic, cultural, and environmental wellbeing of the Far North District and assist Council as appropriate in conducting and maintaining effective, good faith working relationships with the Māori community.

· Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori are raised at Council meetings and/or by the Kahika/Mayor and Councillors, Te Kahu o Taonui Iwi Representatives or members of the public. This report serves as a mechanism to provide Te Kuaka Committee with quarterly updates on those matters.

TŪTOHUNGĀ / Recommendation

That the Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee receive the report Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori.

tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background

The purpose of Te Kuaka is to strengthen a Te Ao Māori perspective within Council decision making across policies and strategies. The committee responsibilities include:

· Ensure that the work of Te Kuaka is carried out in a way that enhances the social, economic, cultural, and environmental wellbeing of the Far North District

· Mahi ngātahi mā te huihui, wānanga – recommend to Council, aspects of importance to Māori for incorporation into the development of the Strategic documents (e.g., Te Ao Māori Framework, Annual Plan, Long Term Plan, District Plan)

· Manaaki – to assist Council as appropriate in conducting and maintaining effective, good faith working relationships with the Māori community (e.g., Iwi Hapu Environmental Management Plans)

· Recommend to Council aspects that the Far North District Council could pursue to develop and or enhance Māori capacity to contribute to Council’s decision-making processes.

This report, Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori, serves as a mechanism to provide Te Kuaka with updates on current kaupapa / matters pertaining to Māori.

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGĀ / Discussion and Next Steps

It is said that language is the life force of Māori mana. Ko te reo te mauri o te mana Māori. We acknowledge and celebrate the numerous achievements we have made together. This includes:

Te Hiku Ward:

Haititai Marangai Whenua Māori Roadshow: Whatuwhiwhi Engagement

The Whenua Māori Roadshow was held in Whatuwhiwhi, hosted at Haititai Marangai Marae and engaged successfully with local hapū. Key highlights of the event included robust community participation, collaboration with local stakeholders, and a strong emphasis on culturally appropriate practices.

This initiative fostered meaningful partnerships, improved communication, and achieved impactful outcomes for all participants. Over 10 staff and elected members attended the roadshow hui, contributing to its success.

Ōruru Valley Ngā Wāhi Rongonui Māori Cultural (MC) Heritage Pilot Project

The Ōruru Valley Ngā Wāhi Rongonui MC Heritage Pilot project hui was held to reignite and complete the engagement process. The Project is at Phase 4, focusing on contacting landowners and preparing for the launch of the project's website. The site will include FAQs and drone footage to identify sites of significance.

Project team includes:

· Nicola Griffin - Senior Communications & Engagement Advisor

· Nicole Wooster - Executive Assistant to Group Manager Planning & Policy

· Sid Katyare - Spatial Information Analyst

· Theresa Burkhardt - Senior Policy Planner

Moringaehe Update

The Moringaehe Management Committee will be confirmed shortly, with the committee’s management work to follow, including maintenance of the project’s goals and vision in collaboration with local hapū and mana whenua leaders.

This project will be led by the Group Manager Delivery and Operations.

Signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi Commemorations

Preparations for the commemoration of the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi Day are in progress for the Kaitāia event scheduled on 28 April 2025. This event will be hosted by local Iwi and Hapū with FNDC staff and elected members expected to attend on the day.

Kaitāia Urban Stormwater Network

The water-related initiatives continue to move forward, including the Kaitāia Urban Stormwater Network Resource Consent Application Renewal. There has been improved engagement and responses from both the council and local hapū members regarding these initiatives.

A hui is scheduled for 2 April alongside hapū to discuss further works on the Kaitāia project.

Safety Cameras Collaboration with NZTA

A collaboration with New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) is underway to implement average speed safety cameras at Kaitāia-Awaroa Road. This initiative aims to improve road safety, enhance traffic monitoring, and reduce accidents, benefiting both local communities and visitors. A communications campaign was developed in collaboration with the Community and Engagement team focused on identifying champions within the target community. Champions included the Pukepoto School principal and local police. The aim is to engage well-known local identities to explain the project is and its safety aims are, and to foster a greater sense of community pride and involvement.

Link attached for video footage: Kaitāia-Ahipara Road - Average Speed Cameras - March 2025

Engagement Hui with Kaitāia Digital Hub

An engagement hui was held with the Kaitāia Digital Hub to discuss digital inclusion, technology access, and opportunities for local development. The hui focused on fostering collaboration to improve digital literacy and empower the community, through enhanced technological resources and skills, around Councils’ Te Pae o Uta framework and how council can increase community knowledge about Te Kaunihera o Te Hiku o Te Ika (FNDC) and its role within the community.

Engagement Hui with Te Rarawa Kaimahi

A hui was held to engage with local workers and stakeholders with the aim of strengthening relationships, aligning community goals, and ensuring that the workforce is well-supported through collaborative efforts that reflect the needs and aspirations of Te Rarawa.

Bay of Islands – Whangaroa Ward:

Te Taumata – Te Kura Reo o Te Tai Tokerau (Te Taumata)

Ka tū tēnei wānanga hei te - 19 ki te 23 Hanuere, 2025. Mā ngā uri o Te Tai Tokerau. This event took place on the 19^th to 23^rd of January and was hosted by ngā iwi me ngā hapū o Whaingaroa, one of Councils’ treaty partners. It is a Te Reo Māori event for descendants of Te Tai Tokerau and brings together experts in Te Reo Māori who teach over 200 participants across the week. Attendees are fully immersed in Te Ao Māori for the duration of the event. Council staff attend the pōwhiri.

Waitangi/Paihia/Opua Water Treatment Plant

Council staff met with Ngāti Kawa and Ngāti Rāhiri representatives and Stellar project management to advance relocation of the water plant next to Haruru Falls Bridge, Haruru. Re-engaging with Ngāti Kawa and Ngāti Rāhiri hapū has been crucial in getting momentum behind the relocation project.

Infrastructure Services at FNDC have now appointed a dedicated project manager to see the kaupapa through. Terms of references have been shared with hapū and discussions are being had regarding forming a hapū working group.

Ngāti Rēhia Matauranga Māori Exchange

Discussions were initiated with Ngāti Rēhia for the mātauranga exchange hui to be hosted at Whitiora marae, Te Tii Mangonui 30 April. This meets the objectives of Te Aro Manatu Relationship Agreement that Council has with Ngāti Rēhia.

Ngāti Te Ara and Ngāti Kōpaki

Ngāti Te Ara and Ngāti Kōpaki representatives requested a hui to discuss formalising a relationship agreement with council.

Staff met with collective members of these Moerewa hapū to outline the process of creating a relationship agreement along with a workplan to prioritise required maintenance, service requests and other avenues they could utilise to complete these works.

Te Tiriti o Waitangi Commemorations

In the weeks leading up to Waitangi Week 2025, staff engaged with several agencies including the Waitangi National Trust, The Waitangi Organising Committee, Police and Emergency Services regarding ongoing preparations to support Waitangi Week activities.

FNDC was highly visible in their delivery of support across Waitangi Week. From occupying the taumata, to providing shuttle and transportation services, to kaikaranga and information stalls.

Te Rūnanga o Whaingaroa

Staff met with Te Rūnanga o Whaingaroa (TROW) to share and discuss the objectives of Te Pae o Uta. TROW have also provided a draft of their Mana Ōrite Relationship Agreement, cover letter and workplan. Risk analysis and legal consideration of these documents are underway.

Te Āhuareka o Ngāti Hine

Te Ahuareka o Ngāti Hine hosted at Ōtiria Marae from March 28 - 30 was another success for hapū and whānau of Ngāti Hine a Hineamaru. Sports, cultural events and whakawhanaungatanga won the day and FNDC were able to provide support as well as being present during the celebrations

Kaikohe-Hokianga Ward:

Inspiring Rangatahi

Te Hono staff supported Kahika Tepania at an event designed for young people to hear from local role models in their hāpori (region) and to learn about different job types, why people enjoyed working in these roles, and what challenges they faced along the way.

Outcomes of this hui were evidenced in the engagement and excitement of rangatahi on the day, many of whom went on to enquire directly with Council about the Mayor’s Taskforce for Jobs program.

Māngungu Signing of Te Tiriti Commemoration 185 years

This event took place at the Māngungu Mission on 12 February 2025 and saw a proud display of Mana Māori Motuhake for the people of Hokianga. Council supported Iwi and Hapū in acknowledging the historic importance of remembering the 64 rangatira who signed Te Tiriti o Waitangi 185 years ago.

Approximately 300 people attended with iwi and hapu sharing stories about the history of the area and of the Chiefs who signed. Elected members were also invited to speak on the day.

Te Raupo Rāwene Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP)

Rawene received an upgrade to its ailing WWTP through the delivery of an Electrocoagulation machine. The community held an open day on 1 March in Rāwene. Representatives from council were in attendance to support the event along with Te Mauri o Te Wai as the kaupapa leaders and drivers for this engagement with the community.

Engagement Hui

Council’s Kaiārahi Kaupapa Māori staff are holding roadshow/engagement hui with Kohanga Reo, Kura, NGO (Non-government organisation) and takiwā throughout April, May and June or 2025.

The intention is to present Te Pae o Uta Te Ao Māori Framework and provide an understanding of the commitment council has to enhancing staff capabilities in Te Ao Māori as well as deliver information on services provided by Council.

Roadshow/engagement hui will target smaller entities and organisations like marae, whanau trusts, kohanga and kura who play a pivotal role in providing council with grass roots feedback on the services we provide. The outcomes is to provide council with a mechanism to plan and develop work programmes that meet the needs of our community.

Opononi/Ōmāpere WWTP Plant (WWTP)

Staff are in the process of engagement for the Opononi/Ōmāpere WWTP Community Group to discuss the discharge of water to land as part of the consent conditions. Hapū in the area will be included in the engagement alongside Te Rūnanga ā Iwi ō Ngāpuhi and Te Rūnanga ō Te Rarawa.

Te Tai Tokerau Festival 2025

On the 9^th – 10^th April elected members and council staff participated in the celebration of the 50th Jubilee for Te Tai Tokerau Secondary Schools Kapahaka Festival, hosted by Opononi Area School. Staff also supported elected members at the pōwhiri which involved over 500 people from across the district. This was an excellent opportunity to engage with rangatahi, locals and communities from across the district.

Northland Regional Council, the Electoral Commission and a number of council departments provided information stalls on subjects such as Whenua Māori Rating Relief, Local Waters Done Well consultation, Annual Plan consultation, Civic Education and Engagement and answered general enquiries relating to council kaupapa.

Council, through its Community Boards, also contributed funding towards the event. Council and Community Board logos were included in Te Tai Tokerau Festival collateral, including signage for the event. Additionally, Te Hono staff, the Roading Team and event organizers worked collaboratively on a traffic management plan alongside Kia Tupato who are external consultants.

The event was a huge success and Council involvement created excellent visibility and garnered over 200 engagements at the Council tent including kōhanga reo, secondary school students, Iwi representatives, hapu kaikorero and members of the public.

PĀNGĀ PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGĀ TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision

There are no financial implications or the need for budgetary provision as a result of this report.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

Nil

[1] This is a fixed charge applied to each separately used or inhabited part (SUIP) of a property, irrespective of the value of a property. It’s used to pay for general council services including roads, wastewater and stormwater systems, libraries, parks and reserves. The purpose of a UAGC is to ensure that all property owners or ratepayers provide a minimum contribution to fund services that benefit the whole community.