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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |



Wednesday, 22 April 2026
Time: 10:00 AM
Location: Council Chamber
Memorial Ave
Kaikohe

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Authorising Body |
Council |
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Status
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Standing Committee |
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COUNCIL COMMITTEE |
Title |
Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure |
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Terms of Reference Adoption |
11 December 2025 |
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Responsible Officer |
Head of Infrastructure |
Kaupapa / Purpose
The purpose of the Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure (the Committee) is to ensure cost effective, quality and sustainable infrastructure decisions are made to meet the current and future needs of Far North communities and that Councils infrastructure assets are effectively maintained and operated.
The Committee will review the effectiveness of the following aspects:
· Affordable core infrastructure to support healthy and sustainable living;
· Operational performance including monitoring and reporting on significant infrastructure projects
· Delivery of quality infrastructure and district facilities
· Financial spend and reprogramming of capital works
· Property and other assets
Ngā Huānga / Membership
The Council will determine the membership of the Committee.
Te Koukou – Transport and Infrastructure Committee will comprise of at least six elected members (one of which will be the chairperson). Kahika / Mayor Moko Tepania is an ex-officio member of all Committees.
Cr Felicity Foy (Chairperson)
External Appointment Deputy Chairperson
Cr Arohanui Allen
Cr Rachel Baucke
Cr Ann Court
Cr Halkyard Harawira
Cr Tāmati Rākena
Kōrama / Quorum
The quorum at a meeting of Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure is 4 members.
Ngā Hui / Frequency of Meetings
The Committee shall meet 4 weekly.
Ngā Apatono / Power to Delegate
The responsibilities, duties and powers of the Committee are subject to the prohibition on delegation of powers under Clause 32(1), Schedule 7, Local Government Act 2002, and any other restrictions on delegation under any other relevant legislation.
Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure may not delegate any of its responsibilities, duties or powers however it may establish working groups to consider issues within the committee’s areas of responsibilities noting that working groups have no decision-making powers.
Ngā Herenga Paetae / Responsibilities
The Committees responsibilities are described below:
· Assess and provide advice to Council on strategic issues relating to the provision of Council’s infrastructural activities and district facilities.
· Review, and recommend to Council, policy and strategies for the delivery of infrastructural asset services.
· Monitor achievement of outcomes included in the Infrastructure Strategy and other transport and infrastructure strategies e.g District Transport Strategy.
· Ensure that Council protects its investment in its infrastructural assets in accordance with accepted professional standards.
· Monitor the risks, financial and operational performance of the Council's infrastructural activities and facilities.
· Monitor major contract performance measures/key result areas (KRAs).
· Monitor significant projects
· Approve budget overspend (above tolerance levels in the CE delegations) and any reprogramming of capex for a project or programme provided that:
o The overall budget is met from savings.
o The overall budget for capex is not exceeded. Where this is not the case, the Committee must either:
§ Recommend to Council that additional funding is approved (outside the Annual Plan or Long Term Plan process), or
§ Recommend as part of the next round of Long Term Plan or Annual Plan process that the funding is considered for inclusion.
· Approve contracts provided they are:
o in accordance with the current year’s plan, whether that be Annual Plan or Long Term Plan, and
o deemed low by the Significance and Engagement Policy.
· Ensure that operational functions comply with legislative requirements and Council policy
· Ensure that consents associated with Council's infrastructure are being met and renewals are planned for.
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· Recommend service level changes and new initiatives to the Long Term and Annual Plan processes.
· Recommend to Council the acquisition or disposal of assets.
· Approve new leases and lease renewals (of non-reserve land), in accordance with the current years’ plan, whether that be Annual Plan or Long Term Plan.
· Approval of roading contracts beyond CE delegation.
· Monitor roading contracts.
· Receive and consider any consultation document and/or any proposed amended or new legislative instrument that may have a transport related outcomes and where appropriate make submissions and enable political advocacy at a Mayoral Forum Level if required.
· Receive and adopt the Asset Management Plan for Transport.
· Receive and adopt Far North District Council's walking and cycling strategies.
· Receive and consider any placemaking projects that have a transport related component so the committee can ensure the projects are captured (where appropriate) in our funding and planning instruments.
· Receive invitations to apply for external funding opportunities in a timely manner so that the committee may advocate for community-initiated infrastructure projects. (Examples PGF, TIF).
· Receive updates on changes to national and regional policies and Transport Plans that impact on Council provision of infrastructure and where appropriate make submissions or recommendation to Council.
Ngā Ture / Rules and Procedures
Council’s Standing Orders and Elected Member Code of Conduct apply to all meetings.
Reporting and Review of Committee Terms of Reference
The terms of reference of the Committee will be reviewed as part of this report but can be amended by Council at any point throughout the term.
Far North District Council
Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting
will be held in the Council Chamber, Memorial Ave, Kaikohe on:
Wednesday 22 April 2026 at 10:00 am
Te Paeroa Mahi / Order of Business
1 Karakia Tīmatanga / Opening Prayer
2 Ngā Whakapāha Me Ngā Pānga Mema / Apologies and Declarations of Interest
3 Ngā Tono Kōrero / Deputation
4 Te Whakaaetanga o Ngā Meneti o Mua / Confirmation of Previous Minutes
4.1 Confirmation of Previous Minutes
6 Ngā Pūrongo Taipitopito / Information Reports
6.3 Transportation - Operational Update
6.4 Transportation - Capital Works Update
6.5 Transportation - Road Safety Update
6.6 Infrastructure Consenting Status
6.7 Solid Waste Services Contract
6.8 Infrastructure - Capital Works Update
7 Te Wāhanga Tūmataiti / Public Excluded
7.1 Confirmation of Previous Minutes - Public Excluded.
7.2 SCADA Upgrade - Telemetry upgrade stage 1
8 Karakia Whakamutunga / Closing Prayer
6 Te Kapinga Hui / Meeting Close
1 Karakia Tīmatanga / Opening Prayer
2 Ngā Whakapāha Me Ngā Pānga Mema / Apologies and Declarations of Interest
Members need to stand aside from decision-making when a conflict arises between their role as a Member of the Committee and any private or other external interest they might have. This note is provided as a reminder to Members to review the matters on the agenda and assess and identify where they may have a pecuniary or other conflict of interest, or where there may be a perception of a conflict of interest.
If a Member feels they do have a conflict of interest, they should publicly declare that at the start of the meeting or of the relevant item of business and refrain from participating in the discussion or voting on that item. If a Member thinks they may have a conflict of interest, they can seek advice from the Chief Executive Officer or the Manager - Democracy Services (preferably before the meeting).
It is noted that while members can seek advice the final decision as to whether a conflict exists rests with the member.
3 Ngā Tono Kōrero / Deputation
No requests for deputations were received at the time of the Agenda going to print.
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
4 Te Whakaaetanga o Ngā Meneti o Mua / Confirmation of Previous Minutes
4.1 Confirmation of Previous Minutes
File Number: A5630017
Author: Natasha Rmandic, Democracy Advisor
Authoriser: Aisha Huriwai, Manager - Democracy Services
Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report
The minutes are attached to allow the Committee to confirm that the minutes are a true and correct record of previous meetings.
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That Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure confirm the minutes of the meeting held 25 February 2026 are true and correct. |
1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background
Local Government Act 2002 Schedule 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) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options
The minutes of the meetings 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.
TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION
The reason for the recommendation is to confirm the minutes are a true and correct record of the previous meetings.
3) PĀnga PŪtea me ngĀ wĀhanga tahua / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
There are no financial implications or the need for budgetary provision as a result of this report.
1. 2026-02-25
Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Minutes - A5599743 ⇩
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
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.
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He Take Ōkawa / Compliance Requirement |
Aromatawai Kaimahi / Staff Assessment |
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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. |
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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 28. |
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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. |
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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 for 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. |
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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 is asking for minutes to be confirmed as true and correct record, any interests that affect other people should be considered as part of the individual reports. |
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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. |
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Chief Financial Officer review. |
The Chief Financial Officer has not reviewed this report.
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
5 Ngā Pūrongo / Reports
File Number: A5670295
Author: Matt Richardson, Manager - Infrastructure Delivery
Authoriser: Tanya Proctor, Head of Infrastructure
Take Pūrongo / Purpose of the Report
The purpose of this report is to seek Council approval to transfer approved funding for the Rangitāne Boat Ramp and Paihia Waterfront Development projects from Year 2 of the 2024–2027 Long Term Plan to Year 1 (2027/28) of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan, and to confirm that the project budgets will be reviewed and adjusted for inflation as part of the development of the next Long Term Plan.
Both projects are managed and will be delivered by Far North Holdings Ltd. The proposed timing change reflects current project readiness and delivery constraints, and ensures funding is aligned with realistic delivery timeframes. Adjusting the budgets for inflation through the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan will allow updated cost assumptions to be applied prior to construction, while maintaining the original scope and intended outcomes of both projects.
WhakarĀpopoto matua / Executive Summary
· The Rangitāne Boat Ramp and Paihia Waterfront Development projects are not progressing due to programme timing, readiness, and delivery constraints, meaning they cannot be delivered within the current LTP timeframe.
· The proposed timing change reflects current project readiness and delivery constraints, including consenting outcomes for Rangitāne and scope and affordability considerations for the Paihia Waterfront Development.
· Retaining the budgets in the current Long Term Plan period would likely result in under‑delivery and reforecasting, while transferring the funding aligns investment with realistic delivery timeframes.
· The proposal retains the intended outcomes and strategic importance of these projects while eliminating the risk of over-rating and reputational damage of non-delivery.
· As part of developing the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan, the transferred project budgets will be reviewed and adjusted for inflation in line with Council’s standard financial assumptions.
· The proposed transfers have no impact on rates in the 2024–2027 Long Term Plan, with any future rate implications to be considered as part of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan.
· The recommended option supports prudent financial management, transparent programme planning, and effective consideration of both projects as Council transitions to the next Long Term Plan period.
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That Te Koukou – Transport and Infrastructure Committee: a) Approve the transfer of the Rangitāne Boat Ramp project, including funding of $3,634,734.82, from the 2024–2027 Long Term Plan to Year 1 of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan. b) Approve the transfer of the Paihia Waterfront Improvements project, including funding of $957,005.12, from the 2024–2027 Long Term Plan to Year 1 of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan. c) Note that: i) The proposed transfer does not change the total approved budgets for either project; ii) The scope and intended outcomes of both projects remain unchanged at this stage.
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1) TĀhuhu kŌrero / Background
Rangitāne Boat Ramp
The Rangitāne Boat Ramp project arose from longstanding community demand for safer, improved public access to the Kerikeri Inlet. The existing facility—a steep, single-lane concrete ramp and deteriorating jetty without trailer parking—creates safety risks as users park along Rangitāne Loop Road.
Council funding in the 2018/28 Long Term Plan prompted site investigations. Later, the Government’s COVID‑19 Response and Recovery Fund enabled the project scope to expand, incorporating a double-width ramp, a pontoon, an improved jetty, pedestrian access, and trailer parking.
By 2021, about $2.4 million in government funding and $1.2 million from the Council were secured. Far North Holdings Limited managed development, and the final concept—supported by hapū Ngāti Rēhia—improved access to the moana for the community.
The proposed development required resource consent due to its scale and the inclusion of reclamation in the coastal marine area. In 2021, the project was referred for assessment under the COVID‑19 Recovery (Fast‑track Consenting) Act 2020 because of its potential employment, safety, and community benefits.
During the consenting process, the project underwent several design changes in response to feedback from tangata whenua, community stakeholders, and technical advisors. Although there was clear demand for improved maritime facilities, the inclusion of about 7,400 square metres of reclamation for trailer parking was contentious and became a central point of opposition within the local community.
In January 2025, an independent expert panel declined to grant fast-track resource consent for the project. The decision cited the challenge of aligning the scale of reclamation with the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement, which generally discourages reclamation of coastal marine areas except in exceptional cases. Although the panel acknowledged the need for improved boat launching facilities in the Bay of Islands and expressed support for the project’s objectives, it found that the proposal did not meet the statutory requirements for approval in its current form.
Construction has not proceeded following the denial of consent. Further work is required to resolve consent, community, environmental, and affordability challenges.
$3,634,734.82 of funding remains in the 2024-2027 Long Term Plan, but delivery timelines are under review.
Due to the refusal of fast‑track resource consent and the resulting need to reconsider project scope, design options, and an appropriate consenting pathway, the Rangitāne Boat Ramp project cannot utilise funding within Year 2 of the 2024–2027 Long Term Plan. Transferring funding to Year 1 (2027/28) of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan allows time to address consenting constraints, confirm a feasible delivery approach, and improve project readiness before construction funding is committed. This approach avoids under‑delivery in the current Long Term Plan period, supports prudent financial management, and retains the project within the Long Term Plan without changing its total budget, scope, or intended outcomes.
Paihia Waterfront Improvements
The Paihia Waterfront is a key asset for the Far North, supporting tourism, recreation, commercial activity, and community amenity in the Bay of Islands. Over several decades, it has sustained repeated storms and coastal erosion damage, impacting public assets, the town centre, and essential infrastructure.
In 2020, the Paihia Waterfront Development was approved as a “shovel-ready” project, receiving $8 million from the Government’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund and an additional $5.8 million from the Council. The original scope included breakwaters, beach nourishment, promenade and pedestrian upgrades, wharf extensions, and harbour works, to be delivered by Far North Holdings Limited.
The project aimed to improve resilience to severe weather, protect assets, enhance public access and amenity, and support local tourism. Resource consents were secured for parts of the development, and detailed engineering and design work was completed before 2021.
In 2021, the project design was revised in response to community feedback, particularly regarding the scale and visual impact of the breakwaters. Breakwater height and configuration were adjusted, and some components were deferred or removed to reduce impact while maintaining storm protection.
By mid-2022, Council was advised that the project was no longer affordable due to rising construction and material costs. In June 2022, the Council resolved not to proceed with the approved project due to insufficient available funding. As a result, central government funding was withdrawn, and the redevelopment did not proceed.
After the decision not to proceed with the full redevelopment, an incremental approach was adopted. FNDC partnered with Focus Paihia Community Trust, local hapū, and business representatives to deliver smaller-scale improvements focused on amenity, safety, and activation of key public spaces. These included lighting upgrades, seating, and deck and railing improvements at Horotutu, as well as other targeted enhancements, several of which were completed by April 2023 for Paihia’s bicentenary celebrations.
Additional waterfront enhancements, such as improvements along the Bluff area and new safety and informational features, have been identified as long-term options. These remain subject to further engagement, design development, and funding confirmation.
The Paihia Waterfront Improvements in the 2024/27 LTP represent the next phase of this incremental approach, rather than a comprehensive redevelopment. Although funding is available for planning and delivery, progress has been limited by the need to define scope, confirm sequencing, and ensure alignment with community expectations, technical feasibility, and affordability.
As a result, the works cannot proceed within the original Year 2 timeframe in the Long Term Plan. Revised timing is required to ensure improvements are properly scoped and delivered in a coordinated way.
Following the discontinuation of the earlier comprehensive waterfront redevelopment due to affordability constraints, and the subsequent shift to an incremental improvement approach, the Paihia Waterfront Development is not sufficiently defined or ready to utilise funding within Year 2 of the 2024–2027 Long Term Plan. Transferring funding to Year 1 (2027/28) of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan provides time to refine project scope, confirm delivery sequencing, and ensure alignment with community expectations and funding affordability before progression to construction. This approach avoids under‑delivery within the current Long Term Plan period, supports prudent financial planning, and retains the project within the Long Term Plan framework without altering its overall budget, scope, or intended outcomes.
2) matapaki me NgĀ KŌwhiringa / Discussion and Options
The Rangitāne Boat Ramp and Paihia Waterfront Development projects will not be delivered in Year 2 of the 2024–2027 Long Term Plan due to outstanding delivery constraints.
The Rangitāne Boat Ramp project has been delayed following the refusal of fast‑track resource consent, requiring further work to reassess scope, design options, and a viable consenting pathway. Until this work is completed, construction funding cannot be effectively utilised. Far North Holdings Ltd have confirmed that delivery is now scheduled for 2027/28.
The Paihia Waterfront Development follows the discontinuation of the earlier comprehensive redevelopment due to affordability constraints and a shift to an incremental delivery approach. While improvements remain a Council priority, further scope definition and sequencing is required before the project is ready for delivery. Far North Holdings Ltd have confirmed that delivery is now scheduled for 2027/28.
To reset public expectation for the delivery of both projects and to accurately model the rating impacts of this work the following budgetary options are considered:
Option 1 – Transfer $3,634,734.82 for the Rangitane Boat Ramp Project and $957,005.12 for the Paihia Waterfront Development Project to Year 1 (2027/2028) of the 2027-2037 LTP (Recommended)
Aligns funding with expected project readiness, eliminates over-rating from capital works not delivered and retains both projects and budgets within the Long Term Plan framework.
Option 2 – Retain funding in Year 2 of the 2024/2027 LTP
Maintains original timing but carries the rating impact of retaining funding without delivery.
Option 3 – Remove funding from the Long Term Plan
Removes short-term delivery risk but is inconsistent with Council commitments and would require future reintroduction.
Preferred Option:
Option 1 is preferred as it provides the most realistic, transparent, and financially prudent approach, while positioning both projects for effective consideration and delivery within the next Long Term Plan period.
With the current Long Term Plan period ending in 2026/27, retaining funding in Year 2 would likely result in underspend and reforecasting. Transferring funding to Year 1 (2027/28) of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan aligns investment with realistic delivery timelines, allows key risks to be addressed, and supports disciplined programme management as Council transitions to the next LTP.
TAKE TŪTOHUNGA / REASON FOR THE RECOMMENDATION
Transferring funding to Year 1 (2027/28) of the 2027-2037 LTP is recommended because delivery constraints prevent effective use of funding for both projects within the current Long Term Plan period. Transferring the funding aligns with project readiness, avoids under-delivery and reforecasting, and allows both projects to be properly considered in the next Long Term Plan. This approach does not alter the approved budgets, scope, or intended outcomes and provides a prudent and transparent response to current delivery risks.
3) PĀnga PŪtea me ngĀ wĀhanga tahua / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
The proposed transfer of funding for the Rangitane Boat Ramp and Paihia Waterfront Development projects relates primarily to a change in timing and does not alter the current approved baseline budgets within the 2024-2027 Long Term Plan.
Funding of $3,634,734.82 for the Rangitane Boat Ramp and $957,005.12 for the Paihia Waterfront Development is currently budgeted in Year 2 of the 2024-2027 Long Term Plan. Subject to Te Koukou approval, these budgets will be transferred to Year 1 (2027/2028) of the 2027-2037 Long Term Plan.
As part of the development of the 2027-2037 Long Term Plan, the transferred budgets will be reviewed and adjusted for inflationary impacts in accordance with Council’s standard Long Term Plan assumptions, cost escalation factors, and financial strategy. Any inflationary uplift will be considered through the LTP process and does not form part of this decision.
There is no immediate impact on rates, debt levels, or funding sources arising from this proposal. The transfer improves financial forecasting accuracy, avoids likely underspend in the current Long Term Plan period, and ensures that future funding reflects updated cost assumptions at the time that projects are programmed for delivery.
Nil
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
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.
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He Take Ōkawa / Compliance Requirement |
Aromatawai Kaimahi / Staff Assessment |
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State the level of significance (high or low) of the issue or proposal as determined by the Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy |
The proposed transfer of funding timing has been assessed as low significance under Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy, as it relates to a timing adjustment only, does not change the total approved budgets, scope, or intended outcomes of the projects, and does not materially affect levels of service or community outcomes.
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State the relevant Council policies (external or internal), legislation, and/or community outcomes (as stated in the LTP) that relate to this decision. |
The proposal has been assessed as being consistent with and guided by Council’s Significance and Engagement Policy, the Long Term Plan 2024–2027, and the principles of financial management and prudence set out in the Local Government Act 2002.
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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. |
The proposal does not have district‑wide relevance, as it relates to specific projects located within defined communities, and the views of the relevant Community Boards will be informed through ongoing project engagement and existing reporting processes.
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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 proposal may have implications for mana whenua, as it relates to projects located within the coastal environment and areas of cultural significance; however, the recommended timing change does not alter project scope or outcomes, and ongoing engagement with tangata whenua will continue to occur as projects progress through future design, consenting, and delivery stages.
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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). |
Residents, visitors, local businesses, recreational users, and community members—including youth, older people, and those with disabilities—are likely to have an interest in the matter, and their views have been considered through previous project engagement and design work, with the current proposal being limited to a timing change that does not affect access, usability, or project outcomes.
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State the financial implications and where budgetary provisions have been made to support this decision. |
The financial implications of this decision are limited to a change in timing, with existing budgetary provisions of $3,634,734.82 for the Rangitāne Boat Ramp and $957,005.12 for the Paihia Waterfront Development transferred from Year 2 of the 2024–2027 Long Term Plan to Year 1 (2027/28) of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan, with inflationary adjustments to be considered through the development of the next Long Term Plan.
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Chief Financial Officer review. |
Chief Financial Officer has reviewed this report. |
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
6 Ngā Pūrongo Taipitopito / Information Reports
File Number: A5647913
Author: Doug Astill, Compliance Officer - Infrastructure Services
Authoriser: Tanya Proctor, Head of Infrastructure
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
Provide a compliance status update to Te Koukou Committee of all infrastructure resource consents, other than Roading, that aligns with the Committee’s Terms of Reference.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
· Council has many resource consents, and follows the Resource Management Act 1991, for the operation of water, wastewater, stormwater and district facility assets.
· Compliance is measured across all consent conditions, including reporting. Failure to submit a report on time can therefore result in a non-compliant status.
· As of 31 March 2026, 7 of Council’s 8 water treatment plants were fully compliant, while 4 of Council’s 15 wastewater treatment plants were fully compliant.
· A total of 7 abatement notices were received in this reporting period, and a total of 12 abatement notices were outstanding on 31 March 2026.
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That the Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the report Infrastructure Compliance. |
tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure has the following delegated responsibilities for infrastructure compliance:
· Ensure that operational functions comply with legislative requirements and Council policy; and,
· Ensure that consents associated with Council’s infrastructure are being met and renewals are planned for.
A compliance status update report for the reporting period ending 31 July 2025 was presented to the 9 September 2025 Committee meeting. A link to this report is provided for convenience: Agenda of Te Koukou - Transport and Infrastructure Committee Meeting - Tuesday, 9 September 2025.
A separate report also included in this agenda, “Infrastructure Consenting Status”, provides an update of progress in the planning and renewal of resource consents.
Council is the consent holder of some 265 resource consents issued by the Regulator, Northland Regional Council under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA), for the operation of water, wastewater, stormwater, maritime, airports, solid waste (landfills), sports facilities, campgrounds, and onsite wastewater facilities for public toilets. These consents contain over 3,600 consent conditions which set out operational limits/parameters and reporting requirements.
Council must also meet the legislative requirements of The Water Services Act 2021 for which the Regulator is Taumata Arowai. Largely these are reporting requirements, principally annual updates of the Drinking Water Safety Plans including progress on the delivery of improvements identified.
Failure to comply with consent conditions or legislative requirements generally results in enforcement action by the relevant Regulator. For example, Northland Regional Council issues (RMA) abatement notices notifying the consent holder of the specific breach with the requirement to stop the breach. Typical breaches for which abatement notices are issued include exceeding a consent limit/parameter, not keeping and/or supplying records, not verifying equipment calibration, and not meeting reporting deadlines.
The Regulator also has the authority to issue further enforcement action such as fines and prosecution.
The update provided in this report takes us to 31 March 2026.
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps
Operational Compliance
In the last report:
· Water treatment - all 8 plants were fully compliant.
· Wastewater treatment – 4 of 15 plants were fully compliant.
· 10 abatement notices were outstanding – water (1), wastewater (7), solid waste (1), sports complex (1).
What has changed:
· Water treatment – all 8 plants remain fully compliant for treatment with 1 plant having a minor non-compliance for data reporting which will be rectified in April.
· Wastewater treatment – 4 of 15 plants were fully compliant with 1 plant having a minor non-compliance for monitoring which has been rectified for April.
· 1 abatement notice from 2024 was resolved and a 2016 notice was superseded by the issuing of a new abatement notice.
· Significant progress has been towards achieving compliance for abatement notices issued in 2016 and 2024 with the ongoing delivery of desludging and treatment improvement works as detailed in Attachment 1 - Abatement Notice Update March 2026.
· 7 abatement notices were received during this reporting period. 1 being a replacement for a 2016 notice. Of these 7, 1 replaced a 2016 notice, 3 breaches were rectified immediately and just 1 relates to treatment. Most of the notices relate to non-compliant reporting or data recording.
Compliance Status
Water treatment plants remain fully compliant for treatment.
Paihia experienced a data non-compliance due to a software issue which can and will be rectified in April 2026.
Hihi has current non-compliant for total suspended solids at the consented sampling point which is post the constructed wetland. Testing has confirmed high levels of avian contamination which is impacting the compliance results. Mitigation for this is to move the compliance sampling point to post-UV treatment at the plant. This has been raised with NRC and a plan is being prepared.
Taipā has high levels of nitrogen and ammonia. Council has recently approved the procurement of desludging of the ponds which is expected to commence mid-2026.
Kaitāia is now fully compliant due to improvements following the ongoing desludging of the ponds.
Kawakawa was non-compliant for inconsistent monitoring of total suspended solids, for which an abatement notice was issued. This has been rectified and compliant from April 2026.
Plants that have ongoing, moderate non-compliance are due to variable treatment performance, often caused by weather events and the impact of avian contamination.
Abatement Notice Update March 2026
Details of all abatement notices as at 31 July 2025 together with those received to 31 March 2026 are included in Attachment 1.
While it has been disappointing to have received multiple abatement notices in this reporting period, is it noted that the issuing of notices for minor breaches commenced in December 2025 and appears to be a continuing trend.
Liaising closely with Northland Regional Council and Council’s Waters contractor is expected to address recording and data compliance issues.
Liaising with other Council business units is also required to improve awareness of compliance issues to ensure they are addressed promptly.
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
This is an information report providing an update on infrastructure resource consent compliance.
Minor non-compliances are met from existing operational budgets. There are existing capital budgets to meet the cost of planned upgrade works.
No additional financial implications or budgetary provision arises from this report.
1. Abatement
Notice Update_March 2026 - A5671598 ⇩
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
File Number: A5662238
Author: Dave Collins, DC Civil Services
Authoriser: Tanya Proctor, Head of Infrastructure
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
This is an update on progress to 31 March 2026 of the Kaikohe Infrastructure Acceleration Fund Programme.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
· The Far North District Council has secured $48.6 million through the Infrastructure Acceleration Fund, with $23 million allocated to Kaikohe for essential water and wastewater upgrades supporting 365 new homes.
· Key developments include completed designs for water and wastewater reticulation and the Taraire Hills Water Treatment Plant. Construction began in late July 2025, with contracts awarded to Bellcon Limited and United Civil Construction Limited.
· Stakeholder engagement is ongoing, including a site meeting with NIFF, communications with local residents and schools, and the launch of a project webpage with ongoing updates.
· Land access agreements are now complete ahead of construction, and professional services have been procured to oversee construction and manage client risk throughout the project.
· Next steps involve completing the construction stage on the projects, submitting funding claims monthly and actioning issues that arise through construction.
· Te Koukou has the delegation to monitor significant contracts.
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That the Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the report IAF Kaikohe update.
|
tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
The Infrastructure Acceleration Fund was established by Central Government to support local authorities in accelerating core infrastructure investment to enable housing development. The Far North District Council successfully secured $48.6 million, with $23 million allocated to Kaikohe for critical water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades supporting housing developments: the Ex-RSA site, Wihongi Street and Bisset Road.
The upgrades will support 365 new homes and will include:
· Water reticulation,
· Water treatment (Taraire Hills WTP),
· Wastewater reticulation,
· Wastewater treatment (on hold),
· Stormwater management (to commence FY26/27).
Design Progress:
· Taraire Hills water treatment plant: Complete.
· Water reticulation upgrade: Complete.
· Wastewater reticulation upgrade: Complete.
· Wastewater treatment (on hold).
· Stormwater management (on hold, linked to Wihongi St development).
Construction Progress:
Contractors are actively progressing the construction phase across three key infrastructure contracts, as outlined below:
· Taraire Hills water treatment plant
Upgrade works at the plant are progressing as per the programme, with only minor delays to non-critical-path items. Construction of the new bolted stainless-steel treated-water reservoir has now started. The new treatment plant foundation is complete and ready to receive the prefabricated process components. The existing Taraire Hills dam is still drained, with the outlet upgrade in progress. The water treatment plant is still operating directly from the Wairoro stream, with the addition of temporary pre-treatment. The dam upgrade is expected to be completed by 11th April, allowing the dam to be refilled. The Wairoro stream intake upgrade is also in progress, with the new wet well under construction currently.
· Water reticulation upgrade
All upgraded pipes have been installed; commissioning and reinstatement are currently in progress. Contractual practical completion of the final upgraded pipelines has been delayed due to testing issues, with completion now anticipated in April 2026.
· Wastewater reticulation upgrade
Work is still progressing on five fronts currently on the project. These are the Rising main (Cumber Rd), Recreation Rd, Shaw St, Rankin St and the Wihongi St Pump Station. Delays to critical path items have occurred due to existing power services, unforeseen underground services and additional scope required to allow capacity for the housing developments. Ongoing reporting to the funder (National Infrastructure Funding and Finance) of the programme delays and risk of not meeting the milestone has occurred. No concerns have been raised by the funder. Enabling works at the Wihongi Street pump station are in progress to allow the ground improvement piling to commence in May 2026.
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps
· Housing Development Update
Earthworks on the Bisset Road development commenced in February 2026, and the contractor is making good visual progress. Offsite prefabrication of 30 dwellings is underway; a further 61 will be constructed on site. When completed, the development will comprise 91 dwellings, in line with the housing outcome agreement. Critical infrastructure upgrades currently in construction will be completed to enable this development.
Council met with the landowner of the potential Wihongi St subdivision in March. The developer had concerns about the proposed district plan process to rezone part of the site for residential use and was advised that he would need to appeal the district plan. He still intends to develop the site, and the housing outcomes are likely to be included over the duration of the IAF project.
· Key Risks
The Wastewater Reticulation Programme has been delayed and will affect completion before the milestone. Funder updates continue to be submitted in the monthly reporting portal.
Taraire Hills Dam – The Taraire Hills dam is currently drained for upgrade works. An increased risk to the operational supply of treated water exists while the plant runs directly on-stream feed. Additional pretreatment has been implemented to mitigate the risk to water quality. The risk remains as there is no redundancy and will continue until approximately 20th April.
· Next Steps
With all design-phase items now completed, the project's focus is on managing the construction phase. Ensuring health & safety, quality, financial and programme contract commitments are achieved.
Relationship management with all stakeholders is critical to ensuring smooth project completion. Ongoing updates to the Far North District Council media releases, Funder reporting and public relations with affected parties will be actioned.
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
Long-Term Plan 2024–2027: Budget provisions are in place. Stage 1 and 2 milestones have been met, and claims have been submitted to the funder. In Stage 3 (Implementation), monthly construction claims are submitted to the funder.
Rating Implications: Capital rate increases expected from FY26/27. Financial planning, internal communications and community communications will be managed by the Steering Group.
Nil
|
Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
6.3 Transportation - Operational Update
File Number: A5666519
Author: Andy Brown, Transportation Business Manager - Transportation Services
Authoriser: Charlie Billington, Group Manager - Corporate Services
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
To present an overview of Transportation related Maintenance, Operations, and Renewals activities undertaken during the reporting period and enable committee review, discussion, and questions.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
· There were no serious health and safety incidents to report from any of Council’s contractors this month.
· This report presents updates on activities in the following areas:
a) Road Maintenance and Renewals
b) Hokianga Ferry Maintenance and Renewals
c) Street Light and Amenity Lighting Maintenance and Renewals
· The reports are intended to provide insight into operational activity completed within the month.
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That Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the Transportation - Operational Update.
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tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
General
There were no serious health and safety incidents to report from any of Council’s contractors this month.
A small number of near miss and minor incidents were recorded relating to close proximity to power. These are being worked through with Top Energy and the relevant contractors.
The information covered in this Transportation Operational Update report to Te Koukou relates to Council’s business as usual road maintenance activities undertaken under the four maintenance, operations, and renewals contracts.
The four monthly contract reports attached provide the operational and service delivery updates from each of Council’s service providers. They give a detailed account of activities undertaken during the month and are outlined below.
a) Maintenance
Council’s two primary road maintenance contractors, Fulton Hogan and Ventia, provide monthly reports outlining maintenance, operations, and renewals activities across the transport network.
North Area Maintenance Network Contract - Fulton Hogan
· Rehabs and Reseals – At the end of the season now and works are progressing well 2/5 rehabs complete, the remaining three were held up due to the weather event, 8.8km left for resealing.
· Grading – 52 roads totalling 186km completed.
· Drainage – 189 Cesspits were cleared, 3km of Surface Water Channel clearing, 0m culvert pipes replaced.
South Area Maintenance Network Contract - Ventia
· Rehabs and Reseals – At the end of the season and all sealing works are progressing well. The weather event at the end of the month has impacted the team’s ability to lay chipseal, for the remaining site – Te Ahu Ahu Rd- this is planned for the next available window in April.
· Grading – 85km completed.
· Drainage – 8.3km of Surface Water Channel clearing, 137.5m culvert pipes replaced, 81 culverts cleared, 17 new culverts, 29 new culvert headwalls installed.
Full monthly reports are available in appendix 1 and 2.
A severe weather event occurred at the end of the month, commencing overnight on Wednesday 25 March 2026 and continuing for three days.
Both Council Road Maintenance Contractors mobilised on the Wednesday to clear drains and roadside sumps in preparation. However, rainfall intensity was extreme, and no level of engineering intervention was capable of managing the volume of rain experienced over that period.
The event impacted approximately 100 roads. The initial response focused on clearing slips and debris to reconnect communities. Further recovery work will be undertaken once the funding application to NZTA is completed and approved.
b) Hokianga Ferry
Councils Service provider Northland Ferries Limited, provides a monthly update on the operation of the Hokianga Ferry service, including service performance, maintenance activities, disruptions, and any matters of note arising during the reporting period.
· The ferry operated smoothly throughout February and there were no health and safety incidents to report.
· Revenue collected from fares for February was $43,028 excluding GST. This was 28.7% lower compared with the same period last year.
· There were 944 scheduled sailings,97.2 of scheduled sailings departed on-time and there were 58 shuttles.
· There were 0 after-hours callouts.
· There were 0 mechanical or weather-related interruptions to the service and no incidents or accidents reported during the month.
c) Lighting Contract
This section provides an update on district lighting activities undertaken by Councils contractor McKay. These activities include lighting maintenance & renewals, faults & callouts, and any planned and completed improvement works.
· 525 individual work items were created, and 455 items were completed during February. There are 32 still open jobs from the previous period.
· 4076 Inspections were undertaken during the month, 2014 nighttime, and 2062 daytime inspections.
· Four RFS’s were received and resolved by the Contractor during the month and there were no afterhours callouts received.
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / DISCUSSION AND NEXT STEPS
Regular Workshops are being planned for the Transport Team and Elected Members. These will be opportunities to introduce the new Maintenance and Professional Services Contracts and the improvements to delivery these will bring, and to discuss reporting and any other matters at which Elected Members input will be welcomed.
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
There are no specific financial implications arising from this report.
1. Maintenance
- March 2026 Monthly Report - FNDC North - A5669766 ⇩ ![]()
2. Maintenance
- March 2026 Monthly Report - FNDC South - A5669767 ⇩ ![]()
3. March
2026 Street Light Monthly Report Contract 7.21.185 - A5671616 ⇩ ![]()
4. Hokianga
Ferry Services Monthly Report - March 2026 - A5678064 ⇩
|
Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
6.4 Transportation - Capital Works Update
File Number: A5666548
Author: Andy Brown, Transportation Business Manager - Transportation Services
Authoriser: Charlie Billington, Group Manager - Corporate Services
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
Provide an update on the status of the 2024-2027 Transportation Capital Works Programme.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
The Transportation Capital Works Programme Report for April 2026 includes the following key progress:
• Bridge Repair and Resilience Programme
• Network Resilience Programme
• Emergency Works Programme
• Low-Cost Low Risk Capital Improvements Programme
Project status and risks are detailed in the report, providing the committee with a Governance overview of the current state of the capital programme.
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That Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the report Transportation - Capital Works Update.
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tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
The Transport Capital Works Team oversees the delivery of several key programmes:
· Bridge Repair and Resilience Programme;
· Footpath (new works) Programme;
· Network Resilience Programme;
· Emergency Works Programme;
· Low-Cost Low Risk Capital Improvements Programme.
These initiatives collectively form a three-year work plan focused on emergency repairs, bridge renewals and maintenance, resilience, and network enhancements.
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps
A memo outlining the status of Transportation capital works, highlighting recent progress and ongoing initiatives is attached.
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
There are no financial implications as a result of this report.
1. Transportation
Capital Report - A5671575 ⇩
|
Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
6.5 Transportation - Road Safety Update
File Number: A5666566
Author: Andy Brown, Transportation Business Manager - Transportation Services
Authoriser: Charlie Billington, Group Manager - Corporate Services
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the Road Safety Education and Promotion activities undertaken by Far North REAP in February 2026.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
Key highlights from the road safety education and promotion activities are summarised below:
· 4,298 people engaged;
· 28/28 Learners Licence’s passed;
· 2/2 Restricted Licence’s passed;
· 30 opportunities to demonstrate proper child car seat restraint use.
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That Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the report Transportation - Road Safety Update. |
tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
Northland REAP is the organisation responsible for road safety education and promotion. Their objective is to enhance road safety outcomes within the Far North District by implementing proactive educational initiatives and promoting activities that foster a community-wide commitment to safer use of the transportation system.
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps
Far North REAP are contracted to deliver Council’s road safety and education programme in the Far North through a series of community-based providers. A full breakdown of their programme in February is included in the attachments.
4,298 community members were reached this month, and so far, this financial year show around 14,000 interactions in the road safety space.
REAP is delivering ahead of their planned programme for the year.
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
There are no financial implications associated with this report.
1. RSP
Report - February 2026 - A5669768 ⇩
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
6.6 Infrastructure Consenting Status
File Number: A5667203
Author: Losaline Finekifolau, Development Engineer
Authoriser: Tanya Proctor, Head of Infrastructure
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
To provide progress updates on the infrastructure consenting work programme.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
· All infrastructure, other than maritime, resource consenting work that aligns with the Long-Term Plan 24/27 and subject to the Resource Management Act 1991 are included in this report.
· Progress updates to 31 March 2026 are detailed in Table 1.
· Te Koukou has the delegation to ensure that the consents associated with the Council’s infrastructure are being met and renewals are planned for.
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That Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the report Infrastructure Consenting Status.
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tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
The July 2025 Te Koukou Committee meeting received an update to 30 June 2025.
This report provides an update to 31 March 2026.
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps
Infrastructure Consenting continues to focus on the following core areas of delivery:
· Early and meaningful engagement with iwi/hapū and other community groups to better inform outcomes.
· Lodgement of renewal applications to Northland Regional Council 6 months prior to consent expiration to ensure continued operation of our assets under s124 of the Resource Management Act 1991 until a consent renewal is granted.
Key resource consent projects from the programme are summarised below.
Granted Resource Consents:
· Taipā Refuse Transfer Station – Consent granted July 2025; and,
· Tauranga Bay Holiday Park – Consent granted November 2025; and,
· Kaikohe Closed Landfill - Consent granted November 2025; and,
· Kaikohe Wastewater Treatment Plant – Consent granted March 2026.
Post-lodgement
Stormwater
· Kerikeri Urban Stormwater
This application remains with Northland Regional Council for processing while they complete stormwater mapping for the area.
Wastewater
· Kaitāia Wastewater Treatment Plant
Following the review of submissions received Northland Regional Council determined no hearing was required. The application is now at the draft conditions stage. Both Council and the Kaitāia Wastewater working group have reviewed the draft conditions, with Council preparing the required feedback prior to finalisation of the consent.
· Kāeo Wastewater Treatment Plant
Draft conditions have been received from Northland Regional Council, and these will be reviewed by both the working group and Council.
· Rāwene Wastewater Treatment Plant
Following a request from Te Mauri o Te Wai, Northland Regional Council have agreed to defer public notification until at least 31 December 2027. The application has therefore been placed on hold awaiting results from the electrocoagulation trial underway.
· Hihi Wastewater Treatment Plant
Northland Regional Council publicly notified the application from Thursday 4 December 2025 to Thursday 22 January 2026. Notification has now closed and no submissions were received. Draft conditions were reviewed by the working group and Council. Currently awaiting final conditions prior to a consent being issued.
· Whatuwhiwhi Wastewater Treatment Plant
Northland Regional Council publicly notified the application from Thursday 12 February 2026 and Thursday 12 March 2026. Notification has now closed and Council are working with submitters to address those issues raised in their submissions.
Pre-lodgement
Water
· Ōpononi & Ōmāpere Waiarohia Stream Dam
Ōpononi & Ōmāpere Waiotemārama Stream
Technical reports for both consents are currently being finalised, and engagement with tangata whenua has commenced along with procurement of a Cultural Impact Assessment.
Stormwater
· Kaitāia Urban Stormwater
Engagement with the relevant hapū groups continues to inform the application as it is being drafted. Lodgement is expected in September 2026.
Wastewater
· Kohukohu Wastewater Treatment Plant
A s127 application has been lodged with Northland Regional Council seeking to vary Condition 13 by extending confirmation of the Best Practicable Option (BPO) due date to 01 July 2026. This extension will allow sufficient time to finalise a BPO that achieves regulatory compliance and aligns with the Water Services (Wastewater Environmental Performance Standards) Regulations 2025. Monthly working group meetings continue to progress the Best Practicable Option.
· Ōpononi & Ōmāpere Wastewater Treatment Plant
A Section 127 application has been lodged with Northland Regional Council seeking to vary conditions to extend the Best Practicable Option (BPO) due date to 01 July 2026. This extension will allow sufficient time to finalise a BPO that achieves regulatory compliance and aligns with the Water Services (Wastewater Environmental Performance Standards) Regulations 2025. Monthly working group meetings continue to progress the Best Practicable Option.
District Facilities
· Tōtara North (Closed) Landfill
Drafting of the application is currently underway with lodgement expected in April 2026.
Table 1 summarises the Long-Term Plan 24/27 resource consenting work programme.
The next quarterly update to Te Koukou Committee is scheduled for presentation to the August 2026 meeting.
|
Land Drainage |
|||||||
|
Unplanned |
Kaitāia |
NEW |
30/04/2026 |
40% |
Drafting application, due for lodgement April 2026. |
- |
- |
|
Unplanned |
Waihārara |
NEW |
30/04/2026 |
40% |
Drafting application, due for lodgement April 2026. |
- |
- |
|
Unplanned |
Motutangi |
NEW |
30/04/2026 |
40% |
Drafting application, due for lodgement April 2026. |
- |
- |
|
Unplanned |
Kaikino |
NEW |
30/04/2026 |
40% |
Drafting application, due for lodgement April 2026. |
- |
- |
|
Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
The Long-Term Plan 24/27 includes budgetary provision for the planned work programme.
The Russell Landfill resource consent is currently in planning and budgetary requirements are yet to be confirmed.
Loan funded unbudgeted expenditure has been approved by the relevant delegated financial authority being the GM – Delivery & Operations and the Head of Infrastructure. The amounts are as follows:
- Tōtara North Closed Landfill $82k
- Kaitāia Land Drainage Area $47k
- Waihārara Land Drainage Area $37k
- Motutangi Land Drainage Area $47k
- Kaikino Land Drainage Area $37k
The rating impact of this capital expenditure (interest and depreciation) will be spread across the life of each consent. Each of these consent applications includes a 35-year consent period. Solid waste activities are funded from general rates, and the land drainage consents have been linked to urban stormwater which is also funded from general rates.
Budgeted FY26 consenting project loan funding has been identified as no longer required, due to consents being issued without the need and cost of hearings, fully offsets the total unbudgeted expenditure of this unplanned work.
Nil
|
Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
6.7 Solid Waste Services Contract
File Number: A5669893
Author: Gaynor Muller, Waste Minimisation & Sustainability Specialist
Authoriser: Hilary Sumpter, Group Manager - Delivery and Operations
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
To update the Committee on Northland Waste’s (NWL) performance and key contract activities with respect to the Solid Waste Services Agreement with FNDC, and to note current risks and management actions.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
· The NWL contract began in October 2024 and provides the core delivery of FNDC’s district‑wide operation of all Refuse Transfer Stations (RTSs) and Community Recycling Centres (CRCs).
· Overall contract performance is strong, with consistently high KPI results and improved evidence‑based reporting from February 2026 onward.
· Key operational challenges include illegal dumping, ageing site infrastructure, and break‑ins at some refuse transfer stations & community recycling centre sites.
· NWL maintained service continuity in July 2025 by voluntarily mobilising kerbside recycling after Waste Management withdrew - this work was outside the contract.
· Upcoming priorities include the Herekino RTS improvement project, site security upgrades, better KPI evidence reporting, forming a FNDC-NWL collaborative working group, and completing the 12‑month post‑contract review to identify improvement opportunities.
· Following the 26 March 2026 significant weather event, NWL responded immediately to manage flood‑damage waste, deploying additional skip bins across the district and maintaining service continuity under challenging conditions. Additional skip capacity was sourced from Whangārei when local availability in the Far North was exhausted.
· All 16 Refuse Transfer Stations were progressively opened from Thursday 2 April through to Saturday 12 April, including operating on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, to ensure community access for flood‑related waste disposal.
· A preliminary estimate of flood‑damage waste costs is approximately $56,000 to date, with further costs expected as waste volumes continue to be quantified and invoices reconciled.
· Officers are preparing an emergency waste funding application to the Ministry for the Environment (MfE), regarding anticipated costs arising from recent weather events.
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That the Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the report Solid Waste Services Contract.
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tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
· The NWL contract commenced in October 2024 and runs for 10 years, forming the backbone of district‑wide waste operations.
· NWL operates 16 Refuse Transfer Stations (RTSs) and 11 Community Recycling Centres (CRCs), plus a seasonal CRC at Ōpua during summer.
· Collected waste and recyclables are consolidated at Kaitaia (North) and Waipapa (South) before residual waste is transported to Puwera Landfill in Whangārei.
· Recovered materials are sorted, contamination‑checked, baled, and transported to end markets. NWL also manages the Bay of Islands Barge recycling flow.
· NWL removes illegal dumping at or near RTS/CRC sites. This remains a significant behaviour‑driven operational challenge.
· RTSs accept a wide range of materials including bagged/bulk refuse, green waste, hazardous waste, metals, tyres, whiteware, and (at some sites) vehicle bodies. Nearly all recycling services remain free to the public.
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps
Scope of Services
The following table provides a high-level summary of what is in and out of the scope of works for the NWL Agreement for Solid Waste Services.
|
In Scope |
Out of Scope |
|
· Operation and maintenance of all RTSs/CRCs, including staffing, customer service, safety, signage, vegetation and litter control. · Transport of waste and recyclables to consolidation facilities at Kaitaia and Waipapa. · Transport of residual waste to Puwera Landfill (Whangārei). · Processing and transport of recovered materials to end markets. · Delivery of annual bulk collections in three areas. · Removal of illegal dumping at or near RTS/CRC sites. · Compliance with relevant legislation, bylaws, consent conditions, and delivery of monthly KPI reporting. |
· Kerbside Collection Services · Illegal dumping at non‑RTS/CRC locations. · Approved collection points · Event Waste Management · Closed landfills |
KPI Framework

Performance
· Average performance score of 97.8% (Oct 2024 – Feb 2026).
· NWL recorded late site openings in December 2024, March 2025, and June 2025, resulting in the 85% KPI result against the Scheduled opening hours category. Performance has improved, with no further late openings reported since June 2025.
· Sites are well‑run, safe, compliant, and consistently meet service level expectations.
· Customer enquiries and RFS response times meet contractual standards, and NWL remains responsive and collaborative.
· NWL is improving evidence‑based KPI reporting from February 2026 onwards.
· In July 2025, NWL mobilised to deliver kerbside recycling services in the South, following Waste Management’s withdrawal of their private kerbside service with four weeks notification. This work was outside the contracted scope and NWL was not obligated to provide this service; however, they stepped in after Waste Management exited the service due to commercial viability issues. Mobilisation was completed within the four-week timeframe which ensured continuity of service for affected customers.
Key Risks
· Illegal dumping remains the most significant operational challenge. This issue occurs out of site operation hours. When rubbish is illegally dumped by the public at the RTS or CRC, Northland Waste clear the area and dispose of the rubbish. FNDC incurs the appropriate illegal dumping fees in the monthly invoicing.
· Ageing infrastructure at several RTS sites requires renewals and targeted H&S upgrades.
· Maintaining legislative and resource consent compliance remains essential, with no current issues identified.
· Break‑ins at certain RTS/CRC sites continue, creating security risks and increasing repair/monitoring costs; CCTV options are being assessed.
Projects and Contract Management Actions
Upcoming Projects / Workstreams
· Herekino RTS Improvement Project: A workshop with the Te Hiku Community Board was held on 24 March to present the proposed improvements, including new fencing and general site tidy‑up works. A key component of the project will be engagement with local schools and marae to ensure community‑aligned planning.
· Security Improvements at RTS Sites: Due to ongoing break‑ins, officers are assessing CCTV and other site‑specific security improvements.
· KPI Evidence Improvement: Council has requested supporting evidence for KPI results. Enhanced reporting commenced with the February 2026 report.
· Collaborative Working Group: A governance‑style working group between FNDC and NWL will be established to strengthen partnership oversight, support operational improvements, monitor cross‑site risks, and align long‑term deliverables.
· Post 12‑Month Contract Review: Council is currently undertaking a collaborative 12‑month review of the contract with NWL, focused on confirming what is working well and identifying opportunities for improvement to ensure the best value for FNDC ratepayers. This review includes testing key assumptions, understanding how the contract is operating in practice following the transition from Waste Management in the South, and considering where RTS classifications may be adjusted to better reflect how people are using the sites. The work is ongoing and no decisions have been made at this stage, however the review may result in recommendations being brought to Council later in the year.
March 2026 Weather Event – Operational Response
· A significant weather event on 26 March 2026 resulted in widespread surface flooding across parts of the Far North District, generating substantial volumes of flood‑damaged waste.
· Northland Waste Limited (NWL) took immediate operational action to support Council’s emergency response to the weather event. This included the rapid deployment of additional skip bins due to the increased waste volumes associated with flood clean‑ups. As local skip bin capacity within the Far North was fully utilised, additional skips were urgently sourced and transported from Whangārei to ensure ongoing service availability.
· In response to the scale of the event, flood‑damaged waste was accepted free of charge at Refuse Transfer Stations, enabling affected residents and communities to safely dispose of damaged materials without additional financial burden during the recovery period.
· To provide maximum public access during the response period, all 16 Refuse Transfer Stations were open between Thursday 2 April and Saturday 12 April, including Good Friday and Easter Sunday, which is outside standard operating expectations. This enabled residents to safely dispose of flood‑damaged materials during a critical clean‑up window.
· Despite logistical constraints and increased demand, NWL maintained continuity of service across the district, reflecting a high level of operational responsiveness and commitment. Officers acknowledge the exceptional mahi of NWL operational staff, who worked extended hours and adapted quickly to evolving conditions to support Council during the immediate recovery phase.
Flood-damage waste volumes and costs
· The total volume of flood‑damage waste received across RTS and CRC sites is still being quantified. Once confirmed, this information will be reported.
· The preliminary cost associated with the flood response is approximately $56,000, recognising that this figure is subject to increase as final waste volumes, transport costs, and disposal charges are reconciled.
Emergency Waste funding application
· In parallel with the operational response to recent weather event, officers are progressing the development of an emergency waste funding application to the Ministry for the Environment (MfE) to seek support for flood‑related waste management costs. The Ministry is well aware of the forthcoming application, and Council officers remain in close and ongoing communication with MfE. This early engagement is intended to support a timely and well‑informed funding request once final impacts are confirmed.
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
This report is for information only. Any variances or future funding needs will be reported through separate papers.
1. FNDC
Report - February 2026 - A5652153 ⇩
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
6.8 Infrastructure - Capital Works Update
File Number: A5670652
Author: Matt Richardson, Manager - Infrastructure Delivery
Authoriser: Tanya Proctor, Head of Infrastructure
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
To provide an update on the status of the 2024-2027 Infrastructure Capital Works Programme to Te Koukou Committee as at 28 February 2026, excluding Transportation.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
· This report provides an update on the delivery of the 2024–2027 Infrastructure Capital Works Programme, excluding Roading projects.
· As at the current reporting period, $62.98 million (39.81%) of the total $158.18 million programme has been spent or committed.
· Delivery progress varies across asset classes, with some programmes tracking well and others still in the earlier stages of design and development.
· Additional planning considerations apply to water and wastewater projects as Council prepares for the transition to Northland Waters on 1 July 2027.
· The report highlights the importance of active programme management to maintain delivery momentum.
· Key areas of focus include prioritising construction‑ready projects and making timely decisions on rephasing or deferral where appropriate.
· These actions are critical to improving delivery certainty and supporting development of a realistic and affordable 2027–2037 Long Term Plan.
· Te Koukou has delegations to review the effectiveness of: financial spend and reprogramming of capital works, operational performance including monitoring and reporting on significant projects and the delivery of quality infrastructure and district facilities.
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That the Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the report Infrastructure - Capital Works Update.
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tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure has the following delegated responsibilities for Significant Projects – spend, monitoring and reporting:
· Monitor Significant Projects
The 2024–2027 Infrastructure Capital Works Programme was adopted through the Long Term Plan to deliver Council’s planned investment for the next three years across the portfolios of three waters, maritime assets, district facilities and associated infrastructure, with a focus on Roading, Compliance and Storm Recovery.
Delivery of the programme continues to be influenced by a range of factors, including consenting complexity, detailed design and investigations, contractor and resource availability, cost escalation, and seasonal and weather‑related impacts. As a result, while a number of projects are progressing as planned or are under construction, others have experienced changes to timing as design and delivery risks are better understood and managed.
As the current Long Term Plan period progresses towards 2026/27 (Year 3 of the 2024-2027 Long Term Plan), a review of the Infrastructure Capital Works Programme has identified specific projects where delivery prior to 30 June 2027 is at an increased risk. In these cases, proposed timing adjustments are intended to improve programme realism, reduce financial risk, and ensure projects are sufficiently advanced before construction funding is committed.
This update provides Te Koukou with current context on the Infrastructure Capital Works Programme and highlights where timing changes are proposed to better align approved budgets with project readiness and delivery capability, while retaining the overall intent and priorities of the adopted Long Term Plan.
The following table presents a financial summary of 2024-2027 LTP Budget vs Actual Expenditure across Infrastructure Asset Portfolios at 28 February 2026:
|
Asset Type |
2024-2027 Budget |
2024-2027 Actual + Commitments |
% Committed |
% Available Budget |
|
Water |
$50,066,530 |
$29,377,000 |
58.68 |
41.32 |
|
Wastewater |
$83,952,068 |
$28,356,785 |
33.78 |
66.22 |
|
Stormwater |
$10,114,615 |
$1,886,119 |
18.59 |
81.41 |
|
District Facilities |
$12,694,903 |
$3,284,741 |
25.87 |
74.13 |
|
Solid Waste |
$1,352,412 |
$72,223 |
5.34 |
94.66 |
|
Total |
$158,180,528 |
$62,976,868 |
39.81 |
60.19 |
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps
As at the current reporting period, 28 February 2026, the 2024–2027 Infrastructure Capital Works Programme has an approved budget of $158.18 million, of which $62.98 million (39.81%) has been spent or contractually committed. This leaves 60.19% of the programme uncommitted as the Long Term Plan period moves into its latter stages.
Delivery performance varies by asset class. Water projects are the most advanced, with 58.68% committed, reflecting stronger project readiness and established delivery pathways. In contrast, Wastewater (33.78%), District Facilities (25.87%), Stormwater (18.59%), and Solid Waste (5.34%) remain early in delivery, with a high proportion of funding still uncommitted.
It is noted that, as illustrated in the MS Project Gantt Chart in Appendix 1, a number of projects are approaching completion of the detailed design phase and are expected to be progressed to procurement through the open market within the next three to four months. Options are being considered to bundling projects together to expedite procurement and delivery.
The level of uncommitted budget reflects known delivery constraints, including design and consenting complexity, sequencing decisions to manage cost and risk, contractor and market capacity, and affordability considerations within the current LTP period. However, as delivery windows narrow, the remaining scale of uncommitted funding increases the risk of underspend, late‑stage delivery pressure, and reforecasting, particularly for complex infrastructure projects.
For Te Koukou, this position highlights the importance of active programme management, clear prioritisation of construction‑ready projects, and timely decisions on rephasing or transferring funding where delivery within the current LTP period is no longer achievable.
An example of this includes transferring budgets from the Rangitane Boat Ramp and Paihia Waterfront Development projects from Year 2 of the 2024-2027 Long Term Plan to Year 1 (2027-2028) of the 2027-2037 Long Term Plan.
Next Steps:
· Maintain focused delivery oversight through regular Infrastructure Programme Updates to Te Koukou, with emphasis on delivery confidence, commitment levels, and risks within the remaining 2024-2027 Long Term Plan period.
· Prioritise construction-ready projects, particularly where delivery can be achieved prior to 30 June 2027, to maximise programme delivery and reduce the scale of uncommitted funding in the final year of the current LTP.
· Actively review water and wastewater projects to determine which can realistically be delivered before 1 July 2027, and which should be deferred or transitioned in alignment with the planned transfer of assets and responsibilities to the new Council-controlled organisation, Northland Waters (Nga Wai o Te Tai Tokerau).
· Support timely rephasing and transfer decisions for projects not achievable within the current LTP period, ensuring clear separation between assets to be delivered by FNDC and those intended to transition to Northland Waters as part of the handover.
· Ensure transition readiness by maintaining clear documentation of project status, scope, funding, and delivery assumptions for water and wastewater assets ahead of their planned transfer to Northland Waters on 1 July 2027.
· At the next Te Koukou meeting, a concise summary will be provided outlining the lifecycle status of projects across the Infrastructure Capital Works Programme, including projects in planning, design, delivery, and completion stages.
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
The 2024-2027 Infrastructure Capital Works Programme has a total approved budget of $158.18 million, of which at the end of February 2026, $62.98 million (39.81%) has been spent of contractually committed to date. The balance of $95.20 million (60.19%) remains available across the remainder of the current Long Term Plan period.
The financial implications of this report are programme-related rather than project specific. No additional funding is sought, and there is no change to the total approved budgets at this stage. The focus is on monitoring delivery confidence, identifying projects where funding can be effectively utilised with the current LTP timeframe and recognising where timing adjustments may be required to avoid underspend and repeated reforecasting.
For water and wastewater activities, financial planning is also influenced by the planned transfer of assets and responsibilities to Northland Waters from 1 July 2027. This requires careful management of remaining capital commitments to ensure projects delivered prior to transition are appropriately funded, while projects not achievable within the current timeframe are identified early and aligned with the next Long Term Plan and the transition framework.
Any proposed rephasing, deferral, or transfer of budget arising from programme reviews will be subject to further reporting and approval through Te Koukou and Council and will be reflected in future programme forecasts and the development of the 2027–2037 Long Term Plan. There is no immediate impact on rates, debt limits, or funding sources as a result of this update.
For water and wastewater, there is an additional transition risk associated with the planned transfer of assets and responsibilities to Northland Waters on 1 July 2027. Projects that are not clearly deliverable prior to this date may require deferral or realignment, and failure to clearly identify these projects early increases the risk of funding uncertainty, scope duplication, or misalignment between FNDC and Northland Waters responsibilities. Active programme management and early decision‑making are required to mitigate both underspend and transition‑related risks.
1. 2024-2027
Infrastructure Capital Works Programme - 28 February 2026 - A5670791 ⇩
1. Infrastructure Capital Works Programme – MS Project GANTT Chart
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
6.9 Citycare Monthly Update
File Number: A5675134
Author: Ivan Ashby, Manager - Property & Facilities Manager
Authoriser: Hilary Sumpter, Group Manager - Delivery and Operations
TAKE PŪRONGO / Purpose of the Report
The purpose of this report is to provide an update on the Community Services Contract with Citycare Property Ltd.
WHAKARĀPOPOTO MATUA / Executive SummarY
Attached are the latest updates. We have summarised the assets giving an overview by ward and included the detailed specifications. Also included are where the sites are located to the service that is proved.
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That the Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure receive the report Citycare Monthly Update.
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tĀHUHU KŌRERO / Background
The Community Facilities Maintenance Contract was awarded to Citycare Property Ltd. The contract commenced on 1 July 2024.
Prior to commencement, council worked closely with Citycare to prepare the mobilisation of the contract.
MATAPAKI ME NGĀ KŌWHIRINGA / Discussion and Next Steps
In the attachments of note is the challenge in aligning all the ‘null’ items listed. We are working through these.
PĀNGA PŪTEA ME NGĀ WĀHANGA TAHUA / Financial Implications and Budgetary Provision
Nil
1. Citycare
Te Koukou Report March 2026 - A5629479 ⇩ ![]()
2. FNDC
Comm Facilities Appendices-final Sept23 - A5622891 ⇩
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
7 Te Wāhanga Tūmataiti / Public Excluded
RESOLUTION TO EXCLUDE THE PUBLIC
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That the public be excluded from the following parts of the proceedings of this meeting. The general subject matter of each matter to be considered while the public is excluded, the reason for passing this resolution in relation to each matter, and the specific grounds under section 48 of the Local Government Official Information and Meetings Act 1987 for the passing of this resolution are as follows:
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Ordinary Te Koukou Committee for Transport and Infrastructure Meeting Agenda |
22 April 2026 |
8 Karakia Whakamutunga / Closing Prayer
9 Te Kapinga Hui / Meeting Close