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
	Amendment Date	03 July 2025
	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.

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 6 members comprising of 4 FNDC representatives and 2 Te Kahu o Taonui members.

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:

Tuesday 23 September 2025 at 10:00am

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 Te Patukeha Iwi - Hapū Environmental Management Plan. 16

5.2 Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee Strategic Intent - Te Pae ki Tawhiti 2040. 142

5.3 Te Reo Māori name for Far North District Libraries. 149

5.4 Far North Towns and Names. 159

5.5 Far North District Council Cultural Audit Report 220

5.6 Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatuanuku - Whenua Māori Strategy. 240

6 Ngā Pūrongo Taipitopito / Information Reports. 279

6.1 Te Kahu o Taonui Taiao Portal Progress Report 279

6.2 Civic Engagement and Education Update. 286

6.3 Te Rauora - Reorua Annual Review.. 291

6.4 Whenua Māori - Freehold Land Rating Relief 303

6.5 Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori 2024-2025 Annual Report 307

6.6 Open Resolutions and Actions Update - September 2025. 312

Supplementary Reports (distributed under separate cover)

6.7 Te Kahu o Taonui Update

6,8 Te Pae o Uta Annual Review

7 Karakia Whakamutunga / Closing Prayer. 319

8 Te Kapinga Hui / Meeting Close. 319

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

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

4.1 Confirmation of Previous Minutes

File Number: A5262658

Author: Marlema Baker, 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. Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee Minutes - 19 June 2025 - A5240117 ⇩

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

23 September 2025

5 Ngā Pūrongo / Reports

5.1 Te Patukeha Iwi - Hapū Environmental Management Plan

File Number: A5314356

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

Authoriser: Jacine Warmington, Group Manager - Strategic Relationships

Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report

To seek Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee (Te Kuaka) endorsement of the Te Patukeha Hapu Environmental Management Plan (IHEMP).

WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary

· Te Patukeha received council funding in the 2022-2023 financial year to develop an IHEMP alongside hapū, in line with council policy.

· This will take the number of IHEMPs with Far North District Council (FNDC) to 15. These agreements are reviewed every 5 years.

· The Te Rūnanga o Patukeha Roopu Mana Taiao Hapū Environmental Management Plan is attached.

tŪtohunga / Recommendation

That Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee;

a) receive the report Te Patukeha Iwi Hapū Environmental Management Plan on behalf of Council; and

b) recommend that Council support Te Patukeha Iwi Hapu Environmental Management Plan.

1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background

FNDC have the following IHEMP agreements:

1. Te Patukeha - New

2. Ngāti Hine Environmental Management Plan – Updated

3. Ahipara Takiwā Management Plan - Updated

4. Ngāti Kuri Environmental Management Plan

5. Ngāi Takoto Environmental Management Plan

6. Te Aupōuri Iwi Management Plan

7. Haiti-Tai-Marangai Marae Hapū Management Plan

8. Te Rūnanga o Whaingaroa Environmental Management Plan

9. Ngāti Rēhia Environmental Management Plan

10. Kororareka Marae Society Environmental Management Plan

11. Ngāti Rangi Environmental Management Plan

12. Te Iwi o Ngātiwai Iwi Environmental Management Plan

13. Ngāti Kuta ki te Rāwhiti Environmental Management Plan

14. Te Kahakura o Ngāti Korokoro, Ngāti Wharara me Pouka Environmental Management Plan

15. Te Roroa Iwi Environmental Management Plan

FNDC have funded a further five Iwi and Hapū to develop plans since 2023. These plans are still in progress and Te Hono remains in contact with these Iwi and Hapū to provide ongoing support.

There are currently 12 agreements requiring review. FNDC have a budget for each agreement holder to assist them in rewriting and reviewing their outstanding agreements.

2) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options

On agreement, Iwi and Hapū are given 18 months to develop their plan. This provides appropriate time for them to wānanga the contents of their plan within their hapū, source technical expertise, develop cultural narratives and provide for a robust review process amongst their Hapū.

At the point where Hapū feel comfortable that their due diligence is completed, they then present their confirmed IHEMP to Council to receive. In this case, the receiving of this IHEMP will be conducted by Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee and this resolution will be escalated up to Council on 25 September 2025.

Council is then required to enter as much of the detail in the plan into the systems that we manage for example, within GIS Mapping highlighting specifically Hapū areas of interest for consenting purposes, contact details of Hapū technicians are then added to the Distribution List for all Resource Consent notifications. The Resource Consents team are provided with the IHEMP to further support the consideration of their consents.

TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION

Staff recommend that Te Kuaka receive Te Patukeha IHEMP and that Council support its implementation across the services and functions of Council.

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

Te Hono holds an annual contestable budget of $20,000 to grant to Iwi and Hapū to develop their IHEMPs. Hapū can also source other funding through Northland Regional Council, Iwi entities and external organisations to contribute to their plan development.

There is no budget allocated to implement the plan within Council.

Council systems and processes are adapted to include any relevant information from each plan within the systems that we have.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. Te Rūnanga o Patukeha IHEMP - A5353850 ⇩

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	There is a high degree of significance in endorsing this paper. The IHEMP has a major and long-term impact on the wellbeing of Iwi/Hapū/whanau and their culture and traditions with their ancestral land, water, sites, wāhi tapu, valued flora and fauna, and other taonga.
State the relevant Council policies (external or internal), legislation, and/or community outcomes (as stated in the LTP) that relate to this decision.	This IHEMP gives effect to Councils Vision, He Whenua Rangatira. Te Patukeha enable their Mana Motuhake on their ancestral lands through this IHEMP.
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.	There are no impacts to delegations by Community Boards in endorsing this IHEMP. Council staff will continue to work alongside Community Boards and Te Patukeha on matters of mutual interest
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.	By endorsing this paper, Council gives effect to the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi by acknowledging the principles of Participation and Protection. The outcomes of this IHEMP give effect to our Councils obligations as Partners under Te Tiriti.
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).	Te Patukeha acknowledge the interests of the broader community when completing their plan.
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There are no budget implications for this report
Chief Financial Officer review.

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

5.2 Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee Strategic Intent - Te Pae ki Tawhiti 2040

File Number: A5322151

Author: Marlema Baker, Democracy Advisor

Authoriser: Roger Ackers, Group Manager - Planning & Policy

Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report

To receive and endorse the draft Te Kuaka Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 Strategic Intent (Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040).

WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary

· This report presents the draft Te Kuaka Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 Strategic Intent (Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040) to Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee, it was developed through a series of hui and workshops with members of Te Kahu o Taonui, Council leadership and staff.

· It outlines a shared vision, mission, values, and strategic goals that reflect the aspirations of the Far North’s communities and mana whenua.

· Should the committee continue in the new triennium staff intend to recommend Te Kuaka Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 Strategic Intent to Council for adoption and implementation as a guiding framework for the Committee’s future agendas, work programmes, and partnership with Council.

tŪtohunga / Recommendation

That Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee receive and endorse the draft Te Kuaka Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 Strategic Intent as the long-term strategic direction for Te Kuaka.

1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background

Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee was established to strengthen the partnership between mana whenua and the Far North District Council, and to ensure that Māori voices are embedded in Council decision-making. Over the past triennium, the Committee has evolved into a vital platform for collaboration, advocacy, and strategic alignment.

In July and August 2025, a series of hui and workshops were held with representatives from Te Kahu o Taonui, Far North District Council elected members and Council staff, to co-develop a long-term strategic intent for the Committee. These hui were convened in response to a recognised need for a unified vision and mission that reflects the aspirations of Māori across Te Hiku o Te Ika and provides clear direction for the Committee’s future work.

The report will ultimately seek formal adoption by Council’s in the new triennium as the strategic foundation for Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee should the Committee continue. This endorsement will embed the document as a reference point for future decision-making, strengthen alignment between Committee and Council priorities, and ensure enduring commitment to the kaupapa across successive terms.

2) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options

Strategic Direction and Purpose

Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 sets out a long-term vision for the Far North as a region where Māori communities are thriving, self-reliant, and empowered. It positions Te Kuaka as a strategic platform for both action and advocacy, enabling the Committee to support Council’s core business while also championing kaupapa that sit beyond Council’s direct control.

OPTION 1 (RECOMMENDED)

That Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee receive and endorse the draft Te Kuaka Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 Strategic Intent as the long-term strategic direction for Te Kuaka.

PROS

This option provided strategic clarity and direction

· Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 provides a clear, long-term vision to guide Te Kuaka’s planning, decision-making, and delivery; and

· enables alignment across work programmes, budgets, and partnerships.

This option honours the engagement process

· Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 validates the mahi already undertaken; and

· demonstrates respect for co-design and partnership principles.

This option supports continuity and momentum

· Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 allows immediate integration of the strategic intent into the Committee’s 2025–2028 Work Programme; and

· avoids delays in operational planning and resource allocation.

This option strengthens committee mandate

· Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 positions Te Kuaka as a visionary and proactive committee of Council; and

· reinforces the Committee’s leadership role in shaping long-term outcomes for Māori in the Far North

This option enables early implementation planning

· Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 facilitates development of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), tracking mechanisms, and delivery frameworks aligned with the 2040 vision; and

· supports proactive budgeting and risk management.

CONS

Potential misalignment with incoming governance

· The incoming Mayor and Council structure may have different priorities or interpretations.

· Risk of future review or revision if not fully supported by new leadership.

Limited opportunity for incoming members to shape strategy

· Endorsing now may reduce the sense of ownership or input from new Council members post-election.

· Could be perceived as pre-empting future governance decisions.

Political sensitivity during transition

· May be viewed as a bold move during a politically sensitive period.

· Could attract scrutiny if not clearly communicated as part of a transitional strategy.

The purpose of this recommendation to support the receipt and adoption of Te Kuaka Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 Strategic Intent.

It is staffs’ intention to escalate this report up to Council in the new triennium once the Mayor and Councillors begin considering agenda business and pending confirmation that Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee will continue in the 2025-28 period.

OPTION 2

That Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee do not support or endorse the draft Te Kuaka Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 Strategic Intent as the long-term strategic direction for Te Kuaka.

PROS

This might provide opportunity for reconsideration

· This option might allow Te Kuaka to revisit the strategic direction if there are unresolved concerns or misalignments.

· This option might prompt deeper internal reflection or alternative approaches to long-term planning.

Signals Caution or Strategic Repositioning

· This option could be seen as a deliberate move to pause and reassess priorities before committing to a 15-year vision.

· This option may align with a desire to wait for new leadership or structural clarity before endorsing major strategic documents.

Avoids Premature Commitment

· If there are perceived gaps in the draft or if Te Kuaka feels it’s not yet ready for endorsement, declining avoids locking in a framework that may need significant revision.

CONS

This option undermines previous engagement and co-design

· Risks invalidating the extensive mahi already undertaken.

· May be perceived as dismissive of partnership principles and collaborative governance.

Loss of strategic momentum

· This option delays the development of aligned work programmes, KPIs, budgets, and delivery frameworks; and

· creates uncertainty for staff, partners, and stakeholders relying on strategic direction.

Risk of fragmented planning

· Without a long-term strategic intent, future planning may lack cohesion or vision.

· This option makes it harder to align short-term actions with long-term outcomes.

Risks and Mitigations

Risk	Mitigation
Lack of continuity across election cycles	Embed Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 in the Committee’s Terms of Reference
Misalignment between Council and iwi priorities	Use Te Pae Tawhiti 2040 as a shared reference point for agenda-setting
Limited resourcing for implementation	Advocate for dedicated funding and staff support through the LTP and Annual Plan

TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION

The receiving and endorsing of Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 provides Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee with a clear, co-developed strategic framework that reflects the aspirations of Māori across the Far North. It strengthens the Committee’s ability to effect Council policy, advocate for transformational change, and ensure continuity of kaupapa across election cycles. Embedding this strategic intent into the Committee’s Terms of Reference will formalise its role in guiding Council’s partnership with mana whenua and reinforce its commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

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

There are no direct financial costs associated with receiving and adopting Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040. However, implementation of the goals and actions outlined in Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 may require future investment, which will be considered through Council’s standard budgeting processes.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. FINAL - Te Kuaka Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 - Strategic Intent - A5358715 ⇩

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	Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 aligns with: · Local Government Act 2002, particularly sections 4, 14, and 77, which require councils to uphold the principles of Te Tiriti o Waitangi and to consider the well-being of communities. · He Whakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nu Tireni and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, which underpin the Committee’s commitment to partnership, protection, and participation. · Far North District Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy, which recognises the importance of Māori participation in decisions that affect their communities, land, and taonga.
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 Ki Tawhiti 2040 complements and strengthens existing Council strategies, including: · Te Pae o Uta – Te Ao Māori Framework · FN2100 – Long-Term Vision · Te Rerenga – Economic Development Strategy · Nothing But Net – Digital Infrastructure Strategy · He Ara Tāmata – Creating Great Places It could also support the potential development of new frameworks such as a Marae Infrastructure Strategy and Whānau-Centred Wellbeing Indicators.
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 strategic intent has district-wide implications.
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 adoption of Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 affirms the role of Māori as Te Tiriti partners and acknowledges their relationship with whenua, wai, and taonga. It provides a framework for: · Embedding mana motuhake in local governance · Recognising mātauranga Māori in planning and environmental management · Supporting hapū-led development and iwi-led monitoring and · Elevating marae as essential community infrastructures.
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).	Mana Whenua, Hapū, and Iwi Māori Ward Councillors and Māori Community Leaders Youth (Rangatahi) Kaumātua and the Aged Whānau Living with Disabilities Community Organisations and Service Providers Council Staff and Governance Bodies
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There are no direct financial costs associated with receiving and adopting Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040. However, implementation of the goals and actions outlined in Te Pae Ki Tawhiti 2040 may require future investment, which will be considered through Council’s standard budgeting processes.
Chief Financial Officer review.	This report has not been reviewed by the CFO however future reports will include CFO review when and where there are financial implications around investment, resourcing and implementation.

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

5.3 Te Reo Māori name for Far North District Libraries

File Number: A5210003

Author: Jess Hallam, Team Leader - Library Services & Programmes

Authoriser: Nicola Smith, Acting Group Manager – Community and Engagement

Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report

To seek approval to adopt a bilingual name for Far North District Libraries and endorsement of the recommended name for implementation.

WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary

· This report seeks approval for the Far North District Libraries to adopt a new, bilingual name: He Puna Mārama, Far North District Libraries. This initiative aligns the district’s libraries with the Far North District Council's recent restoration of its indigenous name and logo, reflecting a deepened commitment to Te Reo Māori and cultural integration.

· Libraries are evolving beyond traditional "houses of books" to become vital community hubs for learning, technology, and cultural connection, meaning the commonly used direct translation ‘Ngā Whare Pukapuka’ does not effectively capture the full essence of what these services deliver

· The proposed name, He Puna Mārama, meaning "The Springs of Enlightenment" (interpreted as "Centres of Information"), is derived from the significant kōrero of Kupe, reflecting the history and kaupapa of the Far North.

· The adoption of this name has no immediate financial implications, as the updates required to roll the branding out for this name can be made at no additional cost.

tŪtohunga / Recommendation

That Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee;

a) approve the transition to a bilingual name for Far North District Libraries, and

b) approve the proposed name ‘He Puna Mārama, Far North District Libraries’ on behalf of Council.

1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background

Far North District Council refreshed its logo and restored its indigenous name in February 2024, signalling Council's increased commitment to using Te Reo Māori and aligning with its Te Reo and Tikanga Policy.

Initially, Far North District Libraries retained their English name and logo. To align with Council's direction and deepen this commitment, libraries leadership engaged with Te Hono team to establish a new Te Reo Māori name for the libraries that would reflect both the purpose and history of the Far North district.

The name He Puna Mārama emerged from these in-depth discussions with Te Hono staff and is presented to the committee for consideration.

The intent of this report is not to change specific names of existing libraries, but to approve a group name for the Far North District Libraries, including the mobile library. The work on specific whare names for each site will be progressed as required (noting Te Hononga and Te Ahu already have whare names that will remain) with local hapū iwi when the services name is approved.

2) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options

The preferred option is to adopt a new, bilingual name for Far North District Libraries: He Puna Mārama, Far North District Libraries.

An alternative option proposed is He Puna Mārama o Te Hiku o te Ika, Far North District Libraries. This option is not preferred due to its close similarity to Far North District Council’s logo and concern this may cause brand confusion across our communities.

Both logo options are displayed below for consideration of the committee.

Proposal of these options stem from a desire to align the libraries' identity with the Far North District Council's refreshed logo and revitalisation of its Te Reo Māori name, and to visibly deepen the commitment to te ao Māori within the district.

Libraries are more than "houses of books"; they are vital, ever-evolving community hubs offering learning, technology access, cultural enrichment, and inclusive safe spaces that foster wellbeing, connection, and opportunity. A name that holistically reflects this broader kaupapa and the rich history of the Far North district is therefore essential.

The name ‘He Puna Mārama’ is rooted in the significant narrative kōrero of Kupe, the great Polynesian wayfinder. As he departed Aotearoa from the Hokianga, Kupe's farewell as one of his final statements “Hei konei rā e Te Puna i te Ao Mārama, ka hoki nei ahau, e kore ano ahau e hoki anga nui mai.” (Farewell The Spring of Enlightenment, for I return home, never to return to this place) – provides a powerful metaphor that can be taken and adapted to encompass Far North District Libraries and its purpose in providing services to our communities.

"He Puna Mārama" directly translates to ‘The Springs of Enlightenment’ and, as a literal translation, can be interpreted as ‘centres of information/knowledge’. This encapsulates the libraries' expanded role as sources of knowledge, growth, and community engagement.

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Relevant legislation and/or policies

This initiative aligns with the Council's Te Reo Māori and Tikanga Policy, and Te Pae o Uta – Te Ao Māori Framework which both outline goals and potential actions to increase the use of Te Reo Māori internally and externally. It also supports the spirit of the Local Government Act 2002, which encourages local authorities to provide for the social, economic, environmental, and cultural well-being of their communities. By adopting a bilingual name, Far North District Libraries will enhance inclusivity, working to foster stronger engagement and better meet the diverse needs of Māori.

The adoption of ‘He Puna Mārama’ holds significant cultural importance. This proposal demonstrates tangible commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi by valuing and integrating Te Reo Māori, Te Ao Māori, and local Māori narratives into prominent public-facing services. This name emerged from kōrero between Libraries leadership and Te Hono through a culturally informed and collaborative approach. It is anticipated that this name will foster a stronger sense of belonging and pride in library services for Māori within the Far North district, while also educating and enriching the wider community.

Policy and strategy considerations

This proposal directly supports the Far North District Council's strategic direction toward becoming a culturally skilled, Te Reo Māori proficient organisation. By adopting a bilingual name derived from a significant local kōrero, the libraries become another example of this commitment. It reinforces the Council's desire to reflect the unique identity of the Far North and to ensure its services are culturally resonant for all residents.

Risk and mitigations

· Risk: Potential for initial public confusion or resistance to a new name.

o Mitigation: A comprehensive communication plan will be developed to clearly explain the meaning and significance of ‘He Puna Mārama’, its connection to the Far North's history, and how it reflects the libraries’ modern role. This plan will include public education materials, social media campaigns, and staff training. The name will be revealed as a planned launch during Mahuru Māori, alongside other bilingual signage updates.

· Risk: Mispronunciation or misunderstanding of the Te Reo Māori name.

o Mitigation: Provide pronunciation guides and resources for staff and the public. Promote correct usage through all communications.

· Risk: Perceived exclusion of non-Māori residents.

o Mitigation: Emphasise the bilingual nature of the name and the inclusive "Centres of Information/knowledge" interpretation, highlighting that the libraries remain welcoming spaces for all members of the community, regardless of cultural background.

Implications for Māori

The adoption of "He Puna Mārama" has profound positive implications for Māori. It directly acknowledges and honours the ancestral history of the Far North district through the kōrero of Kupe. By integrating Te Reo Māori into a core public service like the libraries, it contributes to the revitalisation and normalisation of the language. ‘He Puna Mārama’ resonates deeply with the Māori worldview, where knowledge is seen as a spring of enlightenment, connection, and wellbeing.

This name reaffirms the relationship of Māori with their ancestral lands and waters by embedding their rich cultural narratives within a contemporary institution, fostering cultural pride and strengthening identity for current and future generations.

Costs of each option

Option 1: Adopt "He Puna Mārama, Far North District Libraries" (Recommended)

· Initial Costs: $0.

There are no financial implications in receiving this report. All necessary initial updates to existing digital content and logos can be made at no cost, primarily requiring staff time to update existing collateral.

· Anticipated near future costs: No unbudgeted expenditure requests required

- Replacement logo vinyl on the Mobile Library. Costs are minimal at $435 +GST, but confirming all updates to signage will be completed using existing libraries operational budget.

- Signage above Kaitāia Library and Service centre at the front count (at Te Ahu) – this is currently the previous council logo, discussions underway with Communication and Engagement team and the Te Ahu Trust to enable this change to be made - updates to signage will be completed using existing libraries operational budget.

- Signage outside Kāeo Library and Service Centre holds the previous FNDC logo, discussions are underway with Communication and Engagement team and staff working on building renewals for this site to enable this change to be made - updates to signage will be completed using existing libraries operational budget.

- Existing library card stock – updates to our Library cards will be undertaken, however to ensure cost effectiveness to ratepayers, will utilise the large numbers of existing stock (approx. 7000) before reprinting with the new logo unless otherwise advised by Te Kuaka.

· Future Cost: No unbudgeted expenditure requests required.

Any further updates that may incur costs (e.g., new physical signage, large-scale printing) will be undertaken when budget allows, integrated into standard operational cycles.

Option 2: Adopt "He Puna Mārama o Te Hiku o te Ika, Far North District Libraries" (Not recommended, due to close similarity with Council logo)

· All costs and updates as per Option 1.

Option 3: Retain "Far North District Libraries" (Not Recommended)

· Cost: $0 (no change, therefore no direct cost).

· Opportunity Cost: Significant.

This option misses a crucial opportunity to align with the Council's strategic direction, enhance cultural responsiveness, and strengthen community identity. To choose to retain status quo reinforces the current disconnect between the Council's updated identity and a key community service.

Option 4: Adopt a different bilingual name (Not Recommended at this stage)

· Initial Cost: Potentially low, if a suitable alternative name were already identified.

· Future Cost: Per Option 1 and 2.

· Risk: Requires further extensive engagement and consultation to find a name with equivalent depth and community resonance. This could significantly delay implementation and incur additional staff time and resources in the consultation process, without guaranteed improvement from the current well-considered proposal.

TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION

The recommended option is to approve the adoption of "He Puna Mārama, Far North District Libraries" as the new bilingual name for Far North District Libraries.

This option is recommended because it is the most aligned with Council's strategic direction. ‘He Puna Mārama’ is not merely a translation, but a deeply meaningful name rooted in the unique history and kōrero of the Far North, embodying the libraries’ expanded role as vibrant community hubs and centres of enlightenment. It strengthens the relationship with Māori, enhances cultural well-being for all residents, and provides a powerful, aspirational identity for the libraries.

Crucially, the initial implementation carries no immediate financial cost, allowing for strategic cultural alignment without budget strain, while future updates can be phased as resources become available.

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

There are no immediate financial implications associated with this report or the initial adoption of the new name. All necessary updates to existing content and logos can be made at no cost apart from staff time to update existing collateral. Any further updates that may incur costs will be undertaken within existing budgets.

Anticipated near future costs will be met withing existing operational budgets. These are likely to include:

· Replacement logo vinyl on the Mobile Library. Costs at $435 +GST

· Signage above Kaitāia Library and Service centre at the front count (at Te Ahu) requires confirmation with vendor, but previous works indicate this will cost $600 + GST

· Signage outside Kāeo Library and Service Centre requires confirmation with vendor, but previous works indicate this will cost $900 + GST

· Existing library card stock – Libraries bulk order these in lots of 5,000 or more to lock in the best price per-unit. Generally speaking this costs between $4,000- $7,000 for an order. As noted earlier in the report, unless otherwise advised by Te Kuaka the plan is to utilise existing stock and reorder with the new logos in place as required to ensure cost-effectiveness to ratepayers.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. 0968_Library-logo_2025_BRAND_Options_Draft2a - A5356618 ⇩

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	This report has a high degree of significance. While the direct financial cost is low, the proposal involves a significant cultural and identity change for a key community service, aligning with the Council's strategic direction on Te Reo Māori and biculturalism, impacting how the community identifies with its libraries.
State the relevant Council policies (external or internal), legislation, and/or community outcomes (as stated in the LTP) that relate to this decision.	This decision aligns with the Local Government Act 2002 (encouraging cultural well-being and Māori engagement), the Council’s Te Reo Māori and Tikanga Policy, and the Te Pae o Uta – Te Ao Māori Framework. It also supports community outcomes related to cultural identity and community well-being as outlined in the Long-Term Plan.
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 report has District-wide relevance as it pertains to the collective identity of all Far North District Libraries, serving the entire community. While individual library names are not changing, the overarching group name affects all users across the district.
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 adoption of "He Puna Mārama" has profound positive implications for Māori. It directly acknowledges and honours ancestral history and contributes to Te Reo Māori revitalisation. Māori input was provided through direct kōrero between Libraries leadership and the Te Hono team, who offered the name for consideration. This process respects the relationship of Māori with their culture and traditions.
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).	Persons likely to be affected or interested include all Far North residents who use library services, particularly Māori communities (who will benefit from increased cultural recognition), and library staff. The chosen name, "He Puna Mārama," embodies an inclusive "Centres of Information/knowlege" concept, designed to be welcoming to all, including youth, the aged, and those with disabilities, by promoting access to learning, technology, and community connection.
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There are no immediate financial implications associated with this report. All necessary initial updates to existing content and logos can be made at no cost. Any further updates that may incur costs will be undertaken only when budget allows and using existing operational budgets, no unbudgeted expenditure requests will be required. This is further detailed in section 2 and 3.
Chief Financial Officer review.	N/A

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

5.4 Far North Towns and Names

File Number: A5272278

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

Authoriser: Jacine Warmington, Group Manager - Strategic Relationships

Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report

To review the Towns and Community names submissions to Ngā Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa – New Zealand Geographic Board.

WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary

· This report provides an overview of the official Māori place names that have been developed for the Ngā Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa New Zealand Geographic Board (the Board).

tŪtohunga / Recommendation

That Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee receive the report Far North Towns and Names and recommend that Council approve the towns and place names for adoption by the New Zealand Geographic Board

1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background

Thousands of place names throughout New Zealand are not official, even though most have been shown on maps and charts for many years. Making place names official is important as it means there is one agreed and correct name for a place. This is especially important for identifying where you are in an emergency and to recognise New Zealand’s unique culture and heritage.

In 2023 the Board altered the programme that began in 2020 because the number of recorded (unofficial) place names was too high for some iwi to process. The Board decided to focus on processing recorded (unofficial) Māori place names first, adding macrons where appropriate and giving mana whenua more time to respond if needed. The Board will continue to approve recorded Māori names as official, as long as they meet the criteria.

As part of the programme, the Board will review the existing official Māori place names to ensure they are consistent with any newly approved names that have macrons.

If a Māori place name made official through this process needs to be corrected in respect of macrons, we can publish an amendment in the New Zealand Gazette or a formal proposal can be made, which this Board would publicly consult on.

Spelling changes to any place name, whether recorded or official, will require a proposal that goes through public consultation. These cannot be processed through this programme.

To support this work, the Board identified 1,783 unofficial Māori place names within the Far North District Council’s jurisdiction. Of these, the Board’s expert translator, Te Haumihiata Mason, advised that 1,389 are spelled correctly or only require macrons and could therefore be made official.

The remaining 394 names could not be verified and were referred to Kahika-Mayor Moko Tepania for review.

The fast-track process does not require public consultation, but the Board are seeking feedback/comments from mana whenua and the council on whether there would be any issues that would prevent the names that are orthographically correct from being made official.

To this end, Council staff have undertaken a thorough analysis of all 2,177 place names and recommend the following for approval by Te Kuaka.

2) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options

Staff recommend Te Kuaka approve the distribution of the attached names back to Ngā Pou Taunaha o Aotearoa New Zealand Geographic Board (the Board) for their end of year Board meeting as per the recommendations

TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION

The Towns and names have been developed using expert Tikanga and Te Reo specialists in the Far North and also reflect our council’s commitment to enabling Ka Irihia – Te Reo Māori Action plan

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

There are no costs in recommending Towns and Names to the New Zealand Geographic Board. Once approved Council will need to consider the costs of changing signage across teams.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. Far North District Council Recommended Towns and Places - A5282336 ⇩

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	This report has high significance as it relates to Te Reo Māori and provides recommendations by Council to a national board for adoption of towns and place names.
State the relevant Council policies (external or internal), legislation, and/or community outcomes (as stated in the LTP) that relate to this decision.	Ka Irihia – Te Reo Māori Action plan 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.	This has district-wide impact if adopted by the New Zealand Geographic Board
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.	Te Kuaka have been provided with a Information report on this topic. Council staff have sought the expertise of Te Reo Māori advocates and Te Reo experts to develop the recommended names alongside Iwi and Hapū.
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 has an all of district impact as the place and town names will impact all of the communities that reside or frequent our areas.
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There is no immediate impact on budgets for approving this report. Budgetary impacts will need to be considered on approval by the New Zealand Geographic Board.
Chief Financial Officer review.	Reviewed.

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

5.5 Far North District Council Cultural Audit Report

File Number: A5209933

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

Authoriser: Jacine Warmington, Group Manager - Strategic Relationships

Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report

To share with Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee (Te Kuaka), the findings of Far North District Council (FNDC) Cultural Audit report and next steps.

WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary

· This report will outline the Cultural Audit Report including final recommendations.

· The main issues within this report outline twelve final recommendations to be implemented by operations.

tŪtohunga / Recommendation

That Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee recommend that Council approve the final recommendations contained in the Far North District Council Cultural Audit report 2025.

1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background

In October 2024 external contractors Whakatika Hoe were commissioned to perform an extensive cultural audit of council’s obligations to He Whakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nu Tireni (He Whakaputanga) and Te Tiriti o Waitangi.

The Cultural Audit was undertaken to assess how effectively the FNDC is honouring its commitments under Te Tiriti o Waitangi and He Whakaputanga. It examined the integration of Te Ao Māori values, knowledge systems, and principles of partnership within the Council’s policies, practices, and decision-making processes and acknowledges both strengths and areas of improvement.

2) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options

This marks the first cultural audit ever conducted at FNDC, a significant milestone in evaluating how the Council enacts its Treaty obligations while fulfilling its statutory responsibilities to ratepayers across the district.

The audit focused on four key areas of FNDC’s operations:

· Operational functions

· Policy development

· Internal systems

· External engagement

Each area was assessed through a cultural lens, guided by Te Pae o Uta - FNDC’s internal framework for embedding tikanga, te reo Māori, mātauranga Māori, and kawa into Council practice.

A Chief Executive KPI has been established to ensure the findings of the Cultural Audit are actioned within the year. The KPI states:
“Implement the findings, reporting, and recommendations from elected members relating to the Te Tiriti o Waitangi and He Whakaputanga Cultural Audit during the 2025/26 financial year.”

TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION

The recommendation to endorse the findings of the Cultural Audit report will support the formalisation an implementation plan and initiate a programme of work aligned with the successful delivery of the KPI and more importantly, reaffirm council’s position as a Tiriti o Waitangi leader in local government.

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

Funding for this Cultural Audit was included in the 2024-2027 Long Term Plan (Te Pae Tata) and approved by Council.

Council staff alongside the CEO will need to work through how each item, as it pertains to each Council department, to give effect to the final recommendations and their implementation.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. Whakatika Hoe - Cultural Audit Final Report JUNE 2025 for Far North District Council .pdf V3 Te Hiwi amendments (002) - A5282342 ⇩

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	This report has a low degree of significance as it relates to predominantly internal processes and system changes to give effect to the Cultural audit.
State the relevant Council policies (external or internal), legislation, and/or community outcomes (as stated in the LTP) that relate to this decision.	This Cultural Audit is founded on the basis of providing a Te Tiriti and He Whakaputanga lens to its analysis and final recommendations. This audit will give effect to the goals of Te Pae o Uta, Te Pae Tata and Toi Māori.
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 will improve Iwi and Hapū relationships for Council including Community Boards but does not have any effect on the delegations of Community Boards.
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.	This report looks at the systems and processes of Council that give effect to Te Tiriti therefore the implications for Māori will be substantial in terms of the level of service, decision-making and engagement Māori have with Council moving forward.
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 will affect the wider community through the level of services that will be strengthened and enhanced.
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There are no financial implications in endorsing this report
Chief Financial Officer review.	This report has not be reviewed by the CFO

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

5.6 Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatuanuku - Whenua Māori Strategy

File Number: A5196515

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

Authoriser: Jacine Warmington, Group Manager - Strategic Relationships

Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report

To present Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatuanuku Whenua Māori Strategy to Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Committee (Te Kuaka).

WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary

· Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatūānuku – Far North Whenua Māori Strategy is a strategic framework developed by the Far North District Council (FNDC) in collaboration with Te Kuaka, elected members, and staff.

· It aims to support whānau, hapū, and iwi in the occupation, development, and use of whenua Māori and Treaty Settlement Land across the district. Recognising whenua Māori as taonga tuku iho – a treasured inheritance – the strategy responds to longstanding systemic barriers that have limited Māori landowners’ ability to realise the full potential of their ancestral lands.

· The strategy outlines a clear vision of “He Whenua Rangatira – A District of Sustainable Prosperity and Wellbeing,” underpinned by values that reflect te ao Māori and a commitment to equity, partnership, and intergenerational wellbeing. It identifies five focus areas: Papakāinga, Economic Development, Infrastructure and Servicing, Decision-Making, and Treaty Settlement Land. These areas are supported by eight strategic outcomes that guide Council’s governance and operational functions.

· The accompanying Action Plan sets out a comprehensive programme of initiatives to be implemented over the next three years. Key actions include:

o Reviewing and enhancing rating relief and remission policies for whenua Māori and Treaty Settlement Land.

o Establishing targeted services to support resource and building consenting processes.

o Developing a premium consenting pathway tailored to Māori land development.

o Improving infrastructure access and servicing through GIS analysis and strategic investment.

o Creating a digital tangata whenua contact database to support engagement.

o Investigating joint ventures and dedicated funding mechanisms to support papakāinga and economic development.

o Reviewing Council’s land disposal processes to consider returning land to original Māori owners.

o Formalising engagement frameworks and decision-making delegation opportunities.

· The strategy does not commit Council to funding Whenua Māori activity beyond the current financial year and work programmes.

tŪtohunga / Recommendation

a) That Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee recommend;

a) that Council to approve Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatuanuku - Whenua Māori Strategy.

b) delegate authority to the CE to make minor editorial corrections.

1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background

The Far North district has a resident population of approximately 74,700 people, with Māori comprising over 50% of the population (2024). Ngāti Kurī, Te Aupōuri, Ngāti Kahu, Ngāi Takoto, Te Rarawa, Te Roroa, Ngāti Kahu ki Whangaroa, Ngāpuhi and Ngāti Wai are iwi of Te Hiku o Te Ika (Far North), with over 200 hapū, and 144 marae. Te Hiku o Te Ika is rich in cultural in history, as one of the earliest areas of settlement for both Māori and Pakeha.

Approximately 17% or 130,000ha of the district is whenua Māori and is made up of 3,856 Māori land blocks. The majority of whenua Māori is located in the Kaikohe-Hokinga Ward (approx. 54%), 28% in the Bay of Islands Pewhairangi/Whangaroa Ward and approximately 18% in the Te Hiku Ward.

Far North District Council works in a number of areas that focus on Whenua Māori and aims to achieve the aspirations set out in the preamble to Te Ture Whenua Māori. Council work in this area ranges from:

· Strategic Relationships Group

o Engagement for example Te Hono and Rating team undertake engagement with Whenua Māori Landowners in regard to Rating enquiries. Te Hono also support in providing advice to landowners within pre-concept development meetings.

o Te Hono provide Strategic direction on Whenua Māori to Council.

· Planning and Policy Group

o Integrated Planning department – District Planning and Strategic Planning team – develop/write the District Plan.

o Undertake Proposed District Plan work programme – hearings, reports and submissions.

· Delivery and Operations Group

o Resource Consents Team –

§ Processing of Resource consents

§ Development of He Tikanga Haumaru - Practice and Guidance Note to support FNDC Planners when assessing Resource Consent applications

o Building Consents –

§ Implementing the Building Act.

§ Issuing Building Consents.

§ working together with Te Hono to ensure Tikanga and Cultural guidance is undertaken when visiting Whenua Māori sites.

§ Guidance document for Development on Māori Land/building on Māori land.

· Infrastructure Strategy

o Develop Infrastructure strategy that guides Whenua Māori development.

o Align Infrastructure Strategy to Te Pae o Uta.

· Corporate Services

o Rating Services – applying Rates Remissions and Rating enquiries on Whenua Māori.

o Revenue Recovery team – communicating with Ratepayers regarding payments and relief.

· Communications and Engagement team

o Undertake communications on Whenua Māori initiatives and activities.

o Promote and advertise Whenua Māori related news.

o Support engagement initiatives with Whenua Māori Landowners in regard to Rating enquiries.

· Chief of Staff

o Undertake the development of the Organisational Strategy including Focus area “Te Ao Māori”.

o Align Organisation Strategy to Te Pae o Uta.

Council have developed a Whenua Māori Strategy that will help provide strategic over-arching direction to Staff and Elected members when dealing with Whenua Māori related enquiries from the community. The Whenua Māori Strategy will also include a Whenua Māori Action Plan.

The strategy is designed to be iterative and responsive, with mechanisms for monitoring, review, and integration into Council’s Long Term and Annual Plan processes. It represents a significant step toward enabling Māori landowners to exercise rangatiratanga over their whenua and contribute to the district’s sustainable prosperity and wellbeing.

2) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options

Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatūānuku presents a strategic opportunity for the FNDC to address long-standing inequities in the use and development of whenua Māori and Treaty Settlement Land. The strategy responds to a clear problem definition: despite the cultural and economic significance of Māori land, systemic barriers continue to prevent whānau, hapū, and iwi from realising its full potential.

The strategy is well-aligned with Council’s broader commitments under Te Pae o Uta, Far North 2100, and the Infrastructure Strategy 2024. It also complements central government reforms, including the proposed National Environmental Standard for Papakāinga and amendments to Te Ture Whenua Māori Act 1993.

Staff and elected members have been involved in workshops lead by consultants to develop the focus areas and the actions that will follow.

Option 1: Recommend the adoption of Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatūānuku in full, including the Action Plan, to Council

· Advantages:

§ Demonstrates strong commitment to equity and partnership with Māori.

§ Provides a clear roadmap for addressing barriers to whenua Māori development.

§ Aligns with Council’s strategic direction and central government reforms.

§ Enables immediate implementation of actions already underway or budgeted.

· Disadvantages:

§ Some actions are unbudgeted and will require future funding decisions.

§ Implementation will require cross-departmental coordination and resourcing.

Option 2: Recommend the adoption of the Strategy but deferral of selected unbudgeted actions pending further funding analysis

· Advantages:

· Allows Council to progress foundational work while managing financial risk.

· Provides time to assess feasibility and prioritise actions through the LTP process.

· Disadvantages:

· May delay outcomes for whānau, hapū, and iwi seeking to develop their whenua.

· Risks losing momentum and stakeholder confidence.

Option 3: Recommend Council do not adopt the Strategy at this time

· Advantages:

· Avoids immediate financial and operational commitments.

· Disadvantages:

· Missed opportunity to address systemic barriers and support Māori aspirations.

· Inconsistent with Council’s commitments under Te Pae o Uta and other strategic frameworks.

· Potential reputational risk and loss of trust with Māori communities.

Recommended Option

Option 1 is recommended. Adoption of Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatūānuku in full will enable Council to take a proactive and strategic approach to supporting Māori landowners. It reflects a commitment to partnership, equity, and sustainable development, and positions FNDC as a leader in whenua Māori responsiveness.

TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION

Council requires a strategic direction on how we respond to Whenua Māori enquiries. Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatuanuku will provide a consistent approach to advising Whenua Māori landowners and beneficiaries of their opportunities that can be undertaken alongside Council to enable prosperous development.

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

There is no budget allocated to implement this strategy. The implementation plan outlines staged phasing in implementing actions.

Some actions are already accounted for in current budgets and future budgets and will continue irrespective of the strategy being approved

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatuanuku Action Plan - A5296046 ⇩

2. Te Kiri Waiwai o Papatuanuku Whenua Mãori Strategy - A5296048 ⇩

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	This paper has medium significance and has specific interest to Māori. The proposal has a major and long-term impact on the wellbeing of iwi/hapū/whanau and their culture and traditions with their ancestral land, water, sites, wāhi tapu, valued flora and fauna, and other taonga
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 has been integrated though this strategy. This strategy also gives effect to cross council commitments under the Housing Action Plan, Toi Mana, the Tai Tokerau Regional Accessibility Strategy, Te Rerenga and FN 2100 Actions. These strategies have been incorporated into the Action Plan and where appropriate, avoidance has been given creating duplicate actions across all strategies.
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 strategy has District Wide implications as Whenua Māori is located across the district. The outcomes of the strategy will support Community Boards to make better informed decisions as it pertains to Whenua Māori within their ward and delegations
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.	This strategy was approved for development by Te Kuaka and has included Māori Ward Councillors on the working group. Wider consultation with Iwi and Hapū has not been undertaken directly as this strategy is targeted first at Council staff integration into work streams.
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 strategy has an impact on all communities within the Far North. Better processes and development of Policy will benefit all communities.
State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision.	There are budgetary implications noted within the Action plan that have been worked through with the Staff working group and Subject Matter Experts.
Chief Financial Officer review.	This report has not been reviewed by the CFO

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

6.2 Civic Engagement and Education Update

File Number: A5345970

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

o The Civic Education and Engagement Programme 2024–2025 is a strategic initiative led by FNDC to strengthen democratic participation, political literacy, and community engagement across the district. The programme is designed to make local government more relevant and accessible, particularly for communities that have historically been underrepresented or disengaged.

TŪTOHUNGA / Recommendation

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

tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background

The organisation has identified a need to strengthen civic participation and political literacy across the district, particularly among communities that have historically been underrepresented in local government processes. In response, the Civic Education and Engagement Programme 2024–2025 has been developed to make local government more relevant, visible, and accessible to all communities.

The programme is grounded in the principles of rangatiratanga (leadership), kaitiakitanga (guardianship), and mana motuhake (self-determination), and seeks to empower whānau, hapū, and iwi to engage meaningfully with Council processes and decision-making. It also supports FNDC’s strategic goals under Te Pae o Uta and complements broader initiatives such as the Whenua Māori Strategy and the upcoming 2025 local government elections.

The programme includes a range of innovative and culturally responsive activities, including:

· Civic education tools such as web-series, storytelling, and workshops to build understanding of local government functions.

· Community engagement events to connect with aspirations and promote active citizenship.

· Pre-election education including youth competitions and a candidate information evening.

· Voting period activations such as VOTE/POTI whānau days to encourage voter turnout and civic pride.

Additionally, the programme features a “Day in the Life” video series showcasing FNDC staff roles, and a “Local Legend” series highlighting successful community-led projects and partnerships with Council.

This initiative reflects FNDC’s commitment to removing barriers to participation, lifting civic capability, and building trust between Council and the communities it serves.

Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee received an update at their 19 June 2025 meeting which provided a high-level overview of the CEE work programme.

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps

Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ) carried out a nationwide survey post the 2022 local government election and provided data at the Electoral Officer training in Wellington November 2024 that both our independent electoral officer and deputy electoral officer attended.

Voters across the country have indicated that they want to know more about the candidates running for election. Committed to a data driven work programme, we have taken this data and the recommendations for increasing voter turnout into account when developing the CEE work programme.

The demographics of the Far North district, and the relationships required to engage in a meaningful way are consistently considered to build, strengthen and/or maintain ongoing collaborative approaches to equitable civic education and engagement related to democratic processes. Our message is to vote and continue to engage throughout the triennium as to inform the members that are elected when they are making important decisions that affect your whanau (family), hapori (community), tamariki (children), and mokopuna (grandchildren).

Source: Local Government New Zealand Electoral Officer training held in Wellington Nov 2024

The number one reason people are not voting is because they do not know who they are voting for. We have increased accessibility to the candidate profiles by filming candidate videos within the allocated CEE work programme budget. The filming of the videos came to no additional unbudgeted cost to ratepayers. For candidates that did not film a video the profile statement and photo provided with their nomination form (which will be provided in the candidate handbook delivered with voting documents from 9 Sept 2025) was included on our webpage: Candidate Profiles | Far North District Council made available from 1 September 2025. 70%+ of nominated positions filmed a candidate video. Graphic 1 and 2 below provide data on viewership as at 4-9-2025.

A screenshot of a video

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Graphic 1: Analytics showing channel views commencing August 2025.

A screenshot of a graph

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Graphic 2: Breakdown of viewer age and gender

A graph with numbers and text

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Source: Local Government New Zealand Electoral Officer training held in Wellington Nov 2024

2025 Local Government Elections key dates:

Local Elections 2025 | Far North District Council

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

Upcoming Events

o Meet the candidates events | Far North District Council

o Community led initiatives that we are advised of are added to our webpage:

Next steps

o Activating voter participation throughout voting period (9 Sept – 11 Oct)

o Mobile Ballot Box Tour | Far North District Council

§ Drop completed voting documents

§ Enrol/update details on electoral roll

§ Special voting

§ 6 units running 7 days a week

§ 93 stops across the 3 wards aligned with mobile nursing units, community led events, business associations, sport codes, retirement villages, schools, Kura Kaupapa Māori, industrial areas, cafes, rural communities, marae, urban town centres, markets, fishing clubs, halls etc.

o Fact sheet | Far North District Council

§ 8 service centres (9 Sept through 10 Oct)

· Kaikohe Service Centre, 5 Memorial Avenue, Kaikohe;

· Kaitāia Service Centre (Te Ahu), Corner SH1 & Matthews Ave, Kaitāia;

· Kerikeri Service Centre (Procter Library),6 Cobham Road, Kerikeri;

· Kawakawa Service Centre, MacKereth Lane, Kawakawa;

· Kaeo Service Centre, Leigh Street, Kaeo;

· Hokianga Service Centre (Ōpononi isite), 29 Hokianga Harbour Drive, Ōpononi;

· Paihia Library, 6 Williams Road, Paihia;

· Rāwene Service Centre, 11 Parnell Street, Rāwene (Thursdays only)

§ Drop completed voting documents

§ Enrol/update details on electoral roll

§ Special voting

· Anyone that updates or enrols after the 1^st August must do a special vote

· Non-Resident Ratepayer Electors completing form after 1 August must do a special vote

· Enrol and vote on the same day up until 10 October

§ 3 service centres (11 October until midday)

· Kaitaia – Te Ahu

· Kaikohe – Headquarters

· Kerikeri – Procter Library

o Onboarding/induction/pōwhiri/inaugural meetings planning is underway.

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

No budgetary implications.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

Nil

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

6.3 Te Rauora - Reorua Annual Review

File Number: A5262643

Author: Lawrence Wharerau, Kaiārahi Kaupapa Māori

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

TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report

To furnish Te Kuaka Te Ao Māori Komiti with a final report of Te Rauora Kerikeri Reorua Strategy (Te Rauora).

WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY

· This report is a summary and update of Te Rauora between Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rēhia (TRONR) and Te Kaunihera o Te Hiku o te Ika (FNDC). The agreement has now reached its final stages.

· This pūrongo is an extension of the progress report tabled at the 24 April sitting of Te Kuaka Komiti, the same hui which endorsed Te Rauora as the name for this strategy.

TŪTOHUNGA / Recommendation

That Te Kuaka – Te Ao Māori Committee receive the report Te Rauora - Reorua Annual Review.

tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background

On June 1, 2023, TRONR and FNDC, launched Rautaki Reorua/Bilingual Plan for Te Kerikeri (attached). The Rautaki Reorua for Te Kerikeri, referred to as Te Rauora, is an agreement sponsored by Te Tari Taiwhenua – The Department of Internal Affairs (DIA) to create Te Kerikeri as a bilingual township and centre of reo excellence.

While the fixed term of the agreement sponsored by DIA concluded at the end of June 2025 and this report is titled a final review, the work programme will continue and endure under the commitments expressed in Te Aro Manatu Relationship agreement between TRONR and FNDC.

Te Rauora was 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.

Te Rauora includes TRONR led strategic focus areas, FNDC led priority actions and joint outcomes targeted in the strategy. These are expressed in the Pou Tuarongo, Pou Tokomanawa, Pou Tāhū and Pou Mataaho sections of Te Rauora. This report does not speak for TRONR led goals and outcomes.

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps.

Te Rautaki Aro Tahi – Strategic Focus 1 – FNDC and joint led outcomes – Te Pou Tuarongo (Te Rauora informs).

The FNDC Te Reo and Tikanga Policy - Te Kaupapa Here mō Te Reo me ngā Tikanga Māori (attached) was formally adopted on September 21, 2023 and is due for review September 21, 2025. Te Pae o Waho - Te Reo and Tikanga learning programmes continue to roll out across council at our three main centres as well as online serving all areas of council and is lining up to provide access and opportunities for our CCO partners. Classes are offered at levels one, two and three while courses are being prepared to cater for level four, five and six.

Since the last report on Te Rauora 24, April 2025, a further 49 staff have signed up to reap the benefits Te Pae o Waho provides and lifts the number of participants 222 since classes began. There has been a significant and noticed increase in the use of Te Reo in official and casual communications across council including conversations around “the coffee machines” amongst staff. From what is observed, confidence and capability is growing internally. TRONR will always be acknowledged by FNDC as tuakana holding ahi kā and kaitiakitanga in Kerikeri.

FNDC have held two significant hui at Whitiora Marae, Te Tii Mangonui, specifically the mātauranga wānanga for elected members and SLT on May 29, 2025, and the SLT People’s Leaders hui on June 10, 2025. The joint outcomes of this focus area continue to evolve and strengthen giving longevity and succession to Te Rauora.

Te Rautaki Aro Rua – Strategic Focus 2 – FNDC and joint led outcomes – Te Pou Tokomanawa (Te Rauora informs).

There is an increased use and normalisation of te reo Māori in FNDC spaces as evidenced in Te Rautaki Aro Tahi above. Opening and closing karakia has become the norm in FNDC hui at all levels. The look and feel of Te Kerikeri as a reorua centre enhancing its Māori identity is seen and heard particularly with rise of Ngāti Rēhia Community Kapa Haka group, an eclectic rōpū made up of mixed ethnicities including Sri Lankan, Irish and German members of the Kerikeri hapori with a love for kapa haka and a desire to learn more about Te Ao Māori. In eight short weeks of learning and rehearsals, they took the stage at Turners Event Centre during Matariki celebrations. It is standard practice across the board for relevant hapū to be consulted when road naming requests come to the three Community Boards.

Te Rautaki Aro Toru – Strategic Focus 3 – FNDC and joint led outcomes – Te Pou Tāhū (Te Rauora informs).

There is a noticeable increase in te reo Māori and Reorua events and kaupapa in both FNDC and community led opportunities. FNDC acknowledge and support TRONR in their Reorua led kaupapa in Te Kerikeri with an increase in these activations, the community kapa haka is evidence of this. Supporting other kaupapa across our district include Waitangi Week events and activities, Mangungu Te Tiriti kaupapa, Te Tai Tokerau Secondary Schools Kapa Haka Festival, Manu Kōrero competitions, and the recent Te Tai Tokerau Kapa Haka Kura Tuarua Regionals hosted at Papa Hawaiki facility August 2^nd, 2025. Maramataka has been an influence at FNDC dating back to before this agreement was entered into with TRONR, for instance the timing of formal hui in our calendar which avoids the lower energy days where and whenever possible. Te reo Māori signage has increased in the Kerikeri catchment with a good example being Bunnings, Waipapa, which introduced dual signage from the opening day.

Te Rautaki Aro Whā – Strategic Focus 4 – FNDC and joint led outcomes – Te Pou Mataaho (Te Rauora informs).

Promoting Te Hiku o te Ika as a premier reorua destination is further manifested by the groundbreaking choice at the last sitting of Te Kuaka approving the Districtwide Reorua – Te Ao Mārama Strategy. There is an increased use of te reo Māori in planning documents like Te Pātukurea Spatial Plan for Waipapa and Te Kerikeri, annual plans and other strategic documents throughout council has increased. FNDC champions and encourages the use of dual signage in public spaces with correction being made as signage is renewed and/or swapped out. Recently FNDC fed into a spreadsheet from The Geographic Board correcting macrons and other te reo Māori standards to reflect northern mita in placenames. Communication and Engagement are compiling a lexicon of terms, phrases and kupu Māori for all staff to access through the “Compiled FNDC Report Translations and Macronised Place Names” spreadsheet on their TK3 page.

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

There are no financial implications in receiving this report.

Āpitihanga / Attachments

1. Te Reo Maori and Tikanga Policy FINAL - A4479753 ⇩

2. 2023_Kerikeri_Rautaki Reorua Final - A5158307 ⇩

Ordinary Te Kuaka - Te Ao Māori Committee Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

6.4 Whenua Māori - Freehold Land Rating Relief

File Number: A5295524

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 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 the 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 start of May 2024.

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)	01/05/24		30/12/24
Commenced engagement.	30/09/24		30/06/25

In progress		Start date		End date
Review of existing rating relief policies		01/05/24		WIP
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		WIP
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.	13/09/24		30/08/25

Next Steps	Start date	End date
Formalise the work plan for 2025/2026 rating year for the Whenua Māori Rating Relief Working group.	01/07/25	30/10/25

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps

Property Reviews - A total arrears balance of $1,035,756.90 for 239 properties, has been written off since the start of the working group was established. $437,894.44 of the above is the CE write offs that have been processed.

As of 30 June 2025 we have received payments of $2,387,756.78 towards Whenua Māori.

Remissions applied to Whenua Māori:

For the 2025 year we received and or applied remissions to 509 Whenua Māori properties, this is up from the 482 applications we received/applied in the prior year.

Period	Remission Type	Number of properties
2025	Common-Use Properties	25
2025	Enabling Housing Development on MFL (Yr 1-3)	1
2025	Incentivizing Māori Economic Development (Year 5)	1
2025	ML04/01 Māori Freehold Land Not Used	105
2025	Papakainga on Māori Freehold Land	334
2025	Properties Spanning Multiple Districts	1
2025	Remission of Charges on Contiguous Properties	35
2025	Remission of Rates on Land (QEII Covenant)	4
2025	School Sewerage Charges	3

Request For Service (RFS) data

Revenue recovery, Te Hono and the Rating team received 327 requests for service in the past year in relation to Whenua Māori queries – from these there is 6 that are still being resolved.

Geospatial mapping

Due to the ongoing vendor issues which include corrupted data, base map issues and the vendors multiple health concerns, the Revenue Recovery team started manually reviewing the 2501 rateable accounts.

The vendor had delivered the artificial intelligence feature extract to Far North District Council. We then supplied the satellite imagery to Innvex for our feature extractions, once uploaded the file was incorrect and the feature did not line up with the basemap. The vendor did a new extraction for FNDC. We are in the process of analysing the data and verifying the accuracy of the AI outputs. Validation is being conducted using the LINZ building outline dataset and resource consent data. The team aim to complete this work by the end of August 2025.

As of 30 June 2025, the team have reviewed 763 accounts. From this data 178 accounts need further investigation. During the review process we now have 2306 rateable Whenua Māori accounts.

A screenshot of a computer

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Engagement

The 2024/2025 engagement plan set for the working group was to focus on providing ongoing support to Whenua Māori owners as well as a cross council holistic approach to community engagement, reducing debt levels, clarifying rating information, reducing barriers to whenua use and development as well as an enhanced understanding of Whenua Māori throughout our region and most importantly within FNDC.

The following was what was proposed to SLT and to Te Kuaka:

· Workshops: Hosting workshops to receive feedback and ensure points of view are considered prior to engaging in Marae visits

· Marae Visits: Engaging with Māori Freehold Landowners through Marae visits.

· Online Platforms: Developing culturally relevant online engagement platforms with videos, articles, interactive maps, and dedicated web pages. Engagement will also include emails, surveys, and social media content.

· Cultural Festivals and Events: Participating in or sponsoring events that celebrate Māori culture to foster informal interactions and relationship-building.

Workshop

6 November 2024 we held a Whenua Māori focus group session in Kaikohe to ascertain the real-life hurdles that are preventing development of whenua, fact check our information is relevant and given more understanding of the intricacies of Māori Freehold Land. We had 17 attendees who provided us with valuable insight and feedback that was utilised in the remainder of our engagement plan.

Learning and Development:

A Whenua Māori training presentation as well as a comprehensive Promapp for customer facing roles has been developed and rolled out throughout FNDC. Which included a full presentation to all staff on Whenua Māori.

Marae visits

We held five Marae hui throughout the Far North– which were well represented by staff, with attendance by Te Kooti Whenua Māori. The consensus received from over 115 attendees have been welcoming and provided us with valuable insight for what we can do better and incorporate into future hui.

The marae hui held were:

Date	Marae
23 Nov 2024	Waipuna Marae
16 Dec 2024	Otiria Marae
14 Mar 2025	Haititaimarangai Marae
07 Apr 2025	Roma Marae
07 Jun 2025	Te Tii Waitangi Marae

Communications had been distributed to internal/external stakeholders and partners via email, and the information had been added to our website and social media channels.

Cultural events

Members of the working group attended multiple cultural events to promote the Whenua Māori Marae Hui and provide information brochures on Whenua Māori.

Online platforms

Social media posts/reels data analysis of marae hui:

• Waipuna Marae – 1051 views, reached 511 people and 7 interactions.

• Otiria Marae – 4217 views, reached 881 people and 21 interactions.

• Roma Marae – 20,926 views, reached 19,643 people and 303 interactions.

• Haititaimarangai Marae postponed hui – 51,827 views, reached 32,450 people and 379 interactions

The FNDC Multimedia Strategy & Communications Advisor attended Te Tii Waitangi Marae and made a short film of the day.

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

23 September 2025

6.5 Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori 2024-2025 Annual Report

File Number: A5262612

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 an annual report on Ngā Kaupapa Māori / Matters of Importance to Māori for the financial year 2024-2025.

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 2024-2025 Annual Report.

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 Hapū 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 the kaupapa / matters pertaining to Māori that were council were involved in through the year.

MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGĀ / Discussion and Next Steps

Te Hiku Ward:

· Te Rūnanga o te Rarawa MOU signing. This 12-month period marks a significant milestone in the partnership journey, highlighted by Te Rarawa becoming the first iwi rūnanga to formally sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Council. This MOU is more than a formal agreement—it represents a relationship grounded in trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for transformative, community-led outcomes. Chairperson Katie Murray described the signing as an "auspicious occasion", acknowledging the importance of entering into active partnership under this kaupapa. The MOU establishes a framework for continued collaboration, co-design, and delivery of initiatives that are deeply rooted in cultural values and local aspirations.

· Strengthening Relationships with Marae and Hapū. In alignment with the MOU and wider engagement strategy, council have initiated and deepened partnerships across the rohe including:

· Ōturu Marae: A service agreement has been established to support water monitoring initiatives, reinforcing our shared commitment to environmental kaitiakitanga and marae-based leadership.

· Roma Marae: Engagement with Roma Marae has continued to grow, with collaborative efforts focused on environmental resilience, infrastructure development, and shared planning priorities. This relationship reflects council’s commitment to working alongside marae to elevate community-led solutions.

· Haititai Marangai Roadshow: As part of ongoing outreach, the Haititai Marangai Roadshow was launched to engage with whānau, hapū, and iwi across the region. These interactive sessions have strengthened understanding of local priorities and helped shape future project planning.

· Infrastructure and Environmental Stewardship. Council have initiated bridge infrastructure works in collaboration with new hapū connections within the Te Hiku Ward. These projects are being delivered with a strong emphasis on community consultation and ensuring mana whenua voices are central to design and implementation processes. Our environmental partnerships are expanding through ongoing water and land monitoring efforts, designed to uphold the principles of kaitiakitanga and local stewardship.

· Te Oneroa-a-Tōhe Beach Board Engagement. The Board continues to make progress on a number of strategic initiatives:

o Resource Consents: The Board is exploring the re-formation of the Technical Advisory Group to assist with consent applications and reviews. NRC will provide a detailed update at the September 2025 meeting. The Technical Steering Group will also develop a process to improve consent assessments.

o Commissioners Process: NRC is finalising Resource Consent Guidelines, with an emphasis on collaboration between NRC and FNDC for a unified and culturally responsive approach. Ngāti Kuri will submit a commissioners list by July 2025.

o Aero Club Beach Use: Further information is required to assess a proposed use of the beach. Ongoing discussions will be held during the next Board workshop.

o Spat Collecting: The Board has expressed concerns regarding voluntary compliance, regulatory gaps, and environmental impact. Iwi are advocating to become formal kaitiaki of spat harvesting. An Official Information Act (OIA) request has been submitted to Te Ohu Kaimoana, with further engagement planned with Aquaculture New Zealand.

· Strategic Infrastructure – Kaitāia Airport Project – Council continues to strengthen its relationship with Iwi and Hapū landowners in delivering on its Resilience upgrades of Kaitāia Airport. A number of hui with Iwi and Hapū have been held to formalise this relationship followed by a community hui alongside key stakeholders of the airport. A recent hui at Ngāi Takoto headquarters helped advance discussions on the financial responsibilities related to the Kaitāia Airport development. This meeting ensured alignment among stakeholders and helped pave the way for the next implementation phase in accordance with central government funding agreements.

Bay of Islands – Whangaroa Ward:

· Formalisation of Te Aro Manatu Relationship Agreement (TAMRA) between Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Rēhia (TRONR) and Council took place. This was followed up with two significant hui hosted by Ngāti Rēhia at Whitiora Marae, Te Tii Mangonui as agreed to in TAMRA. The first was a mātauranga exchange designed for elected members and the Strategic Leadership Team (SLT) and was well received and attended by governance and management. The second catered for all council’s people leaders. During the second hui, Ngāti Rēhia determined that SLT members who attended the earlier mātauranga exchange were tangata whenua and invited to sit on the taumata to receive their colleagues, while the rest were left to represent themselves with karanga and mihimihi. The Group Manager – Planning and Policy spoke on behalf of the whare Te Tino Rangatiratanga welcoming the others and Te Tumu Whakarae picked up the challenge and spoke on behalf of the team entering Tino Rangatiratanga.

· Supporting Waitangi Week activities FNDC had a high visual presence during the Waitangi Week of events, from supporting the taumata as Kaikōrero, Kaikaranga and waiata tautoko, providing shuttle services for the aged or infirm. Elected members addressed several workshops and information tents. Council staff were present throughout the week providing information on elections, local government and council services in stalls on the Te Tii Waitangi Marae and Waitangi Treaty Grounds (sports grounds).

· Whenua Māori Roadshows centred on rates relief, advice on changing from general titled land to Māori freehold and the benefits of doing so, with the actions required for this to happen. One hosted by Ngāti Hine, Ngāti Kōpaki and Ngāti Te Ara in Tūmatauenga Wharenui at Ōtiria Marae, Moerewa, with members from Te Kooti Whenua Māori and Te Puni Kōkiri supporting and 60+ hapū/iwi attendees as well as elected member representation. The second was hosted by Ngāti Kawa and Ngāti Rāhiri in Te Tiriti o Waitangi Wharehui, Te Tii Waitangi Marae including 45 attendees.

· Kaiārahi Kaupapa Māori supporting the Community and Engagement business group supported council message in several kaupapa Māori projects. Te Mana o te Wai short video series with tohunga/kaumatua Rereata Makiha discussing the importance and significance of water through a Ngāpuhi lens in te reo Māori and English. Participating in promotional material for the Mangungu Te Tirit o Waitangi commemorations. More recently advising and providing voiceover content created to encourage people to participate in the upcoming local elections process.

Kaikohe-Hokianga Ward:

· Waimamaku Kaumātua and Age Care Hui - Hui in Waimamaku held by Billy Te Kahika at his residence to present a proposed Age Care facility for kaumātua. Present were members of the community, an investor and Te Roroa iwi staff. The vision is to provide Age Care for kaumātua in the area.

· Rawene Domain - engagement with Ngāti Kaharau, Ngāti Hau, Te Māhurehure hapū, Lease holders of the gym, the sailing club and Horse Trekking for kids over the Sailing Club’s proposal to build a new building on the land to house all activities and more room to share, bringing sports back into Rawene community.

· Ōmāpere Forest- proposed work to mill the Pine Trees as the lease will expire. Concerns from whānau around the environmental impacts and in what condition the land will be left after the milling. Contractors and whānau are working together to agree a suitable plan.

· Kohukohu WWTP Working Group- Te Ihu Tai hapū members, Council’s infrastructure staff, Kohukohu Community representative working together to find solutions to minimise wastewater outflow to the Hokianga harbour.

· Opononi WWTP- Community members of Opononi/Ōmāpere and Ngāti Korokoro hapū, the start of the future for the WWTP (Wastewater Treatment Plant). Staff are engaging in korero with hapū and community on what is proposed and how it best works for the Opononi/Ōmāpere area.

· Māngungu Commemorations- Te Ngahengahe, Ngāti Toro, Te Pōpoto, Ngāti Hao hapū including the Māngungu Committee with Council committed to tautoko the kaupapa. It was a successful event with many hapū from all over the north and communities, from Māori and non-māori. An internal working group has been put together to start planning for 2026 Māngungu and Waitangi commemorations.

· Te Tai Tokerau Festival- FNDC held a stall at the festival to engage with whānau, hapū, iwi and communities from all over the district. Working with NRC (Northland Regional Council), also alongside business owners and organisations.

· Youth Week & Empowering our Tamariki Whānau- Youth Week 2025 held at the Kaikohe Memorial Park joined by businesses, service providers and community organisations hosted by the Solomon Group to celebrate a special end to the week. Council staff engaging with rangatahi to raise the awareness about the importance of a local government and to enrol for this year’s 2025 local elections. In support of this kaupapa it had the backing of the Kaikohe ki Hokianga Community Board, this is event shows the importance of our rangatahi and the power of communities.

· Mangamuka Road Repair- A joint discussion from Te Rūnanga o Te Rarawa, Ngāpuhi, Horizon Archaeology, LDE Engineering to make plans on how to approach the road slip repair to Mangamuka Road (between Mangataipā and Tūtekehua). Information was provided by the engineers to give understanding on what will be required. Engagement with hapū will be a priority as there is concern that the area is located on or there abouts of an wāhi tapu (ancient burial site), local hapū will be able to add cultural guidance and further information on the site.

· Reorua – With a focus on a programme of work around a bilingual district next steps will be to continue discussions with hapū around reorua, predominantly Te Uri o Hua. Future hui will be planned with Kohanga Reo, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO) and businesses as continued contact to ensure council is able to present at a future date.

· Iwi Environmental Management Plan- Worked with hapū to provide applications and understanding around IHEMP’s (Iwi Environmental Management Plan), with two Hokianga hapū being successful in the application process. Those hapū are Ngāti Korokoro, Ngāti Pakau/ Ngāti Rauwawe. They will now begin journey to put together their IHEMP with hopes that council will be able to sit down in future to finalise with hapū.

· Mana Whakahono A Rohe- Finalised the agreement with TRAION (Te Rūnanga Ā Iwi Ō Ngāpuhi) ready for adoption by council in July.

· MOU- Memorandum of Understanding between council and Te Roroa iwi will be revisited in the following months. Worked with Taoho Tane, Sharron Murray and Delilah Parore-Southon who have taken all collective kōrero from hui and present to the board of Te Roroa. An email was sent out to follow up on the discussion’s outcomes from the hui, awaiting a response from the board and or the CEO.

· Kaikohe Placemaking- the Placemaking group consists of working with hapū Te Uri o Hua, Ngāti Whakaeke and Ngāti Tautahi on the visual look of Kaikohe main street. The group is still working through options as pūtea has been set and allocated to this project $50k for the wash and paint and $57k for the beautification. Beautifying and painting of the main street is the preferred option supported by hapū. This will go to the next Community Board on the 8^thAugust with a recommendation for options on the wash and paint in main street and planter boxes.

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

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

Āpitihanga / Attachments

Nil